Most residents in New York invest in backyard pools to increase their property value. They also provide endless entertainment and serve as a personal retreat after a tiring day. However, choosing the right type of pool is crucial, as it affects cost, maintenance, durability, and long-term satisfaction.
Nowadays, many people opt for various pool types as each possesses multiple features worth enjoying. Two of the most popular pool options are fiberglass and concrete pools. Each has pros and cons, and what works best for one homeowner may not suit another.
This article will explore the fiberglass vs concrete pools pros and cons, helping you decide which is the best choice for your backyard.
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Understanding Fiberglass and Concrete Pools
To choose what works best for your backyard, it is essential to understand these two pool types.
What Are Fiberglass Pools?
A fiberglass pool is a single-piece shell constructed using a mold. Fiberglass is a composite of glass fibers and a resin. The glass fibers can reinforce the hardened resin. This process creates a plastic-like substance and shapes the mold used. Then, manufacturers use a gel coat to finish the inside layer of the shell, and a smooth layer of resin is used to form the finished surface of the pool.
What Are Concrete Pools?
A concrete pool is built on site in the excavated hole according to the owner’s preferred shape and size. Once the pool’s structure is set, the inside surface is finished with approaches like applying a dense coat of mortar called plaster to help seal the porous underlying concrete. Most people also use tiles for this purpose.
Fiberglass vs Concrete Pools: Pros and Cons
Now, let’s find out the advantages and disadvantages of fiberglass pools and how these advantages and disadvantages vary in the context of concrete pools.
Fiberglass Pools: Pros and Cons
Pros of Fiberglass Pools | Cons of Fiberglass Pools |
As fiberglass pools are pre-made, installation is much quicker than concrete pools. | Since fiberglass pools are pre-designed, There are limitations when customizing. |
Their outer layer has a non-porous gel coating, preventing algae buildup. | The initial cost for the fiberglass pools is expensive compared to other options. |
It requires little maintenance, less frequent brushing, and fewer chemicals. | Transportation can be challenging for these single-piece pools when they are bigger. |
They are resistant to cracking due to ground movement or temperature fluctuations. | Some backyards may not be accessible for large pool shells, making installation difficult. |
The gel-coated finish is smooth and gentle on the skin, preventing scrapes and cuts. | If they do get damaged, matching the gel coat color during repairs can be difficult |
Concrete Pools: Pros and Cons
Pros of Fiberglass Pools | Cons of Fiberglass Pools |
Concrete gives you unlimited design flexibility, offering the freedom for pool shape, size, and depth. | The installation process is kind of complex, and depending on the size and design, completing it can take 3 to 6 months |
Concrete pools can last many years with proper maintenance and repair. | Due to the porous surface, it is easily subjective to algae and other debris. Therefore, it requires frequent maintenance. |
These pools can be styled with unlimited additional features, such as a spa, waterfalls, playing items, and more. | Concrete pools are more expensive in the long run because of the ongoing chemical treatments, resurfacing, and energy costs. |
Which Pool Type Is Best for You?
The answer to this question depends totally on your preferences and priorities. Before finding the answer, consider the facts below.
- Initial and lifetime costs (maintenance costs)
- Customization and maintenance preferences
- The urgency of the final results and installation time
By clearly outlining the goals and your vision in the above three factors, you can identify which pool is best for you.
Let me give you some tips to help you choose the right pool option.
Best Choice for Quick Installation
Fiberglass pools come first if you need your pool within 2-4 weeks because concrete pools take time for construction, which can be dragged to months of building, even 6 months.
Best Choice for Custom Designs
Concrete pools give you complete flexibility when designing the pool and considering additional features. However, fiberglass pools are premade and have considerable limitations when determining size, depth, and shape.
Best Choice for Low Maintenance
What are you looking for? A low-maintenance pool; opt for fiberglass pools. They require less frequent cleaning, fewer chemicals, and no resurfacing.
However, concrete pools have porous surfaces, making them easily victimized by algae and debris. Therefore, they must be cleaned often and with many chemicals.
There are more to consider when selecting between fiberglass and concrete pools, such as investments. We recommend you hire a professional and reliable pool builder in Buffalo, NY, to discuss this further.
Choosing the Right Pool for Your Needs
Accordingly, both fiberglass pools and concrete pools have pros and cons.
Fiberglass pools are the go-to option for quick installation, lower maintenance, and energy efficiency. However, concrete pools work best for your backyard if you need full customization and durability.
Again, we say to consider your budget, timeline, maintenance commitment, and long-term goals before deciding.
Importance of Hiring a Professional Pool Builder
A professional pool builder can help you throughout the process, from selecting the pool types to final maintenance instructions and ongoing maintenance services.
Further, a professional pool builder provides guidance in the entire process.
- They are experienced, licensed, and insured.
- They handle the permit and other legal procedures.
- They can complete the job efficiently and effectively.
- They utilize modern tools and types of machinery.
- They provide post-care services and cleanup services.
If you hire a professional and reliable pool builder, you can relax while they work to bring your dream pool to life.
Contact KD Pool Builders and Find Out What Pool Type Works Best For You!!!
Our experts can help you with everything from selecting the pool type to maintenance services. We specialize in the industry at KD Pool Building and have a decade of experience winning five-star customer satisfaction from many residents and business owners in Buffalo, NY.
