Category: Fiberglass Pools

A GUIDE TO CHOOSING BETWEEN GUNITE AND FIBERGLASS.

Inground pools come in three different types—vinyl, gunite, and fiberglass—so determining what’s a right fit for you requires a little research. If you’ve arrived at the point where it’s a decisionon fiberglass vs gunite (concrete), you’ve narrowed your decision tree a bit by throwing out vinyl as an option. This post will consider a concrete pool vs fiberglass pool to help you narrow your choices even further.      

Buyer’s Checklist

The answers to the following questions can be differentiating factors of choosing a concrete vs fiberglass pool.

1. How will your pool be used? Is it a party backdrop, a sunning platform, or the wet arena of countless epic splash-sport battles?
2. Who will maintain the pool? If it’s you, what is the amount of time you’re willing to commit? If it’s someone else, what is the annual budget? 
3. How big a pool do you want or need? Do you want a particular size, shape, or feature? 
4. How much decking and landscaping? 
5. Who will use the pool? Will it include children and pets? 
6. Does your dealer provide a warranty and track record of installing durable pools? 

About Concrete Pools

The first gunite pool was built in 1940. However, soon after, World War II stifled the industry. In post-war society, more homeowners started to purchase gunite pools. And today, depending on climate, gunite pools are still popular. For example, gunite pools can be more affordable in Florida and California, where the year-round temperature isn’t as extreme.

What are the Advantages of Concrete Pools 

Gunite pool advantages lie in their customizability. For the pool buyer who wants to take an active hand in their pool design, gunite is often, but not always, the best option. Gunite pools are:

• Highly customizable. Concrete pools are built in various shapes, sizes, and depths. If you’re looking for a unique pool design (e.g., the shape of a guitar or a palm tree), a concrete pool is for you. 
• Durable. Gunite pools are concrete! Like roads, sidewalks, and buildings, the walls and floor of a gunite pool are durable. While excessive surface cracks can cause staining, algae buildup, and calcium nodules resulting in the need to replaster, the surface is much stronger than vinyl liner pools.

What are the Disadvantages of Concrete Pools?

Aside from having a potentially higher upfront cost, the main disadvantages are the cost and time involved with maintaining the gunite and its plaster surface. The cost of ownership can catch some owners off-guard. Disadvantages of concrete pools are:

• Higher lifetime costs. As you’re doing your pool research, you’ll likely ask, “Are fiberglass or gunite pools more expensive?” Aside from various cost factors, including price differences in temperate climates, there’s not a big upfront price difference between the gunite and fiberglass pool cost. They both have mid-range costs from $45,000-$65,000. However, once you’ve bought the pool, you’ll have to maintain it. That’s when concrete pool cost becomes an issue for many buyers; the estimated 10-year maintenance cost of a gunite pool is about $20,000 or more compared to a fiberglass pool that has an estimated 10-year maintenance cost of around $5,750. 
• Higher maintenance. When comparing fiberglass to gunite, one of the most important things to consider is how hard it can be to maintain the pool. People decide not to get a pool because they worry about maintenance and upkeep. If this is one of your concerns, consider that gunite pools require more maintenance than any other type of pool. If you own a concrete pool, you may spend around four to five hours per week on concrete pool maintenance compared to around one hour with fiberglass.
• Cracking. Have you ever noticed cracks on outdoor patios made of concrete? A pool is no different. As the earth moves, the concrete is not flexible, and instead of moving with the earth, the concrete cracks. This brittleness leaves you with expensive repairs and an undesirable finish to your pool. A fiberglass pool shell offers flexibility, helping to prevent damage when the earth shifts.
• Salt incompatible. Gunite is not the best move if you want a salt system in your pool. Salt gradually eats away at the cement finish as salt eats away a concrete driveway. If salt sits on the pool surface without dissolving, it can stain it in minutes. This salt damage also shortens the lifespan of the pool.
• Rough-surfaces. You most likely wouldn’t play volleyball barefoot on concrete. In the pool, it’s not much different! The rough surfaces can snag your swimsuit and be hard on your feet. Gunite can also hurt your pets’ joints and paws.

About Fiberglass Pools 

Fiberglass pools came into the swimming pool market in the 1950s and have tripled in popularity in the last 20 years. These pools have become a hot commodity due to innovative manufacturing techniques, easier installation, lower maintenance, and luxurious designs with unique features like zero-entry and tanning ledges! You can even choose fiberglass pool designs with a hot tub.

Advantages of Fiberglass Swimming Pools

Fiberglass pools have exploded with innovative shapes, features, and designs. The experience of installing and owning a fiberglass pool is one of pure pool enjoyment. It’s a bit of work, but the emphasis is on the fun. Fiberglass swimming pools are: 

• Durable. (We’ll speak to our designs since we know them best). Our fiberglass pool shell is like a giant sandwich, the composite sandwich of awesomeness, made of 9 layers of different materials, including gel coat, fiberglass (chopped and woven), honeycomb core, and 100% vinyl ester barrier coat. Fiberglass specialists manufacture the shell in multiple layers, with each layer serving to maximize the strength and durability of the entire structure. The layers help the fiberglass withstand weather conditions while retaining flexibility and resisting cracking.
• Quick to install. Fiberglass pools go in easy and fast. Gunite pools can depend heavily on weather conditions and will roughly take three to six months to install, while fiberglass pools typically only take three to six weeks during non-busy seasons because they are pre-built on the mold and ready to go into the ground upon delivery! 
• Usually paired with a lifetime manufacturer warranty. Concrete builders typically don’t have a manufacturer; therefore, they don’t have a manufacturer warranty. If any warranty comes with a concrete pool, it’s typically only a workmanship warranty by the builder. Most (but not necessarily all) fiberglass pool manufacturers ensure every pool purchased and installed is warranted not to leak due to structural failures caused by workmanship and material used in the manufacturing for the pool’s lifetime. If choosing a fiberglass pool, check with your independent dealer for the pool manufacturer warranty. 
• The easiest pool to own. As mentioned before, the average time you will spend maintaining a fiberglass pool is only an hour or less per week. A fiberglass pool’s smooth, non-skid gel coat finish is 100 percent non-porous and non-reactive, so it doesn’t absorb chemicals or affect how they perform. Because the smooth gel coat makes fiberglass pools algae-resistant, you will use fewer chemicals in a fiberglass pool than you would a gunite pool. Fiberglass pools are also lower maintenance than other pool types, needing little more than essential vacuuming, skimming, and water testing. Less time and fewer chemicals mean fiberglass pool cost is lower on an annual basis. 
• Smooth on the surface. The smooth gel-coat surface on our fiberglass pools won’t snag your swimsuit or cause scratches! Because the pool surface is smooth, a frequently asked question is, “are fiberglass pools slippery?” No, you won’t have to worry about the surface being too slick on steps or tanning ledges in our fiberglass pools, thanks to our proprietary process of producing a non-slip gel-coat for certain surfaces on each pool. The tanning areas, seats, steps, and safety ledges have this proprietary surface finish that provides a non-slip surface while still being easy on the skin and smooth to the touch.

Disadvantages of Fiberglass Swimming Pools

Fiberglass pools aren’t for everyone. Small fiberglass pools and medium-sized fiberglass pools come in various shapes and designs, but there are limits. The disadvantages of fiberglass pools are: 

• They are limited in size options. A fiberglass pool is limited to the lengths, widths, and shapes installers can safely transport on the highway. Fiberglass pools generally can be a maximum of 16-feet wide and 40-feet long.
• They are less customizable. Fiberglass pool manufacturing requires pre-made molds, so pool designs are limited to what molds the manufacturer already has or is developing. Luckily, as fiberglass has become more popular, manufacturers have plenty of pool design options to choose from that will fit most yards and suit many lifestyles.  
• They are not DIY. Fiberglass pools are not DIY-friendly. Fiberglass pools are hard to install for even the handiest of handymen. Fiberglass pool dealers have access to training, and they will have the equipment needed to complete the job without damaging the pool. Many people ask us, “Do fiberglass pools pop out of the ground?” Well, they actually can if they aren’t properly installed. Many fiberglass manufacturers do not sell directly to homeowners and sell only to an independent dealer network. The dealer installs your pool to the standards of the warranty.

If you are looking for a low-maintenance, fast-to-install, durable inground pool, fiberglass is a great way to go! If you’re interested in getting a fiberglass pool, the next step is to contact a dealer in your area and browse our pool designs to determine which is the best fit for your backyard oasis! If you want a quick ballpark estimate on the pool of your dreams, check out our pool cost calculator. 

If you are considering an inground pool, you will quickly realize that much information is available. You will likely first consider what type of pool is right for you as you compare the three different inground pool types. Looking for the pros and cons of fiberglass pools vs. concrete or vinyl liners can help you narrow down your preferred pool type. If you’ve already narrowed it down to fiberglass pools, you may even have Googled, “What is the downside to fiberglass pools?” or  “How long do fiberglass pools last?” to see what results you may get. (Smart move). Though it may seem odd that a fiberglass pool manufacturer is addressing this question, it would be even more strange to pretend that a fiberglass pool is for everyone. Everyone should buy the best pool type for them, so this post will address some myths and truths about the downside to  fiberglass pools.

What are the perceived negatives of a fiberglass pool?

Myth 1: Fiberglass pools are slippery.

Between the clear water shimmering in the sun and the high-gloss finish of a fiberglass pool, it’s logical to think it’s slippery. However, over the years, technological advances have resulted in a gelcoat finish for fiberglass pools that is smooth but non-skid. Fiberglass pools are comfortable on your feet (and your pet’s paws), will not snag your suit, and they aren’t slippery. But of course, anywhere there’s water can cause accidents to happen, so always be careful when entering and exiting or walking around any pool type.

Myth: Fiberglass pool designs are “slim pickins.” 

Some people assume fiberglass pool designs are punched out like widgets because they are manufactured in a controlled environment and shipped to the site. Go back a few decades, and there indeed were fewer options. However, today, fiberglass pools come in an array of sizes, shapes, and colors. Fiberglass pool manufacturers like Thursday Pools are constantly innovating to provide new options and built-in features, such as beach entry pools (Patent US 10,472,839). 

Myth 2: Fiberglass pool designs are “slim pickings.” 

While fiberglass pools are manufactured from molds in a controlled environment and shipped to your site, there are many options. Go back a few decades, and that wasn’t the case. However, modern fiberglass pools come in an  array of sizes, shapes, and colors. Thursday Pools is constantly innovating to provide new options and built-in features to our fiberglass pool shells and was first on the scene with  beach entry fiberglass pools (Patent US 10,472,839). 

Myth 3: Fiberglass is weak and brittle compared to other pool types.

Don’t be fooled by the name—fiberglass is not fragile. In reality, fiberglass is incredibly strong and flexible, making it highly resistant to cracking and wear. Fiberglass pools withstand shifts in soil and ground movement, making them durable in varied climates. A testament to their durability, fiberglass pools can last several decades when properly maintained. 

What are the negatives of a fiberglass pool?

Truth 1: Fiberglass pools aren’t customizable in terms of size and shape.  

Because they arrive on site in one piece, and the Department of Transportation limits what can be hauled down our roads without tighter regulations and a more extensive approval process, fiberglass pools are typically only 16 feet wide. So, fiberglass may not be for you if your pool must extend beyond 16 feet wide or 40 feet long. You also can’t get a fiberglass pool shaped like a guitar (unless a fiberglass pool manufacturer adds it to their design lineup).

Truth 2: The initial cost may be higher than other pool types. 

It will likely cost more upfront to purchase a fiberglass pool than some other pool types. However, because you’ll save on maintenance and there is no liner to replace, the lifetime cost of a fiberglass pool is typically lower. So, if you need to spend less upfront, fiberglass may not be your best option. Check out our Pool Cost Calculator if you’d like a ballpark estimate for a fiberglass pool.

Truth 3: It’s not a DIY project. 

A fiberglass pool is a lifetime purchase, but that’s only true if properly installed. A DIY installation voids the pool’s warranty. In any case, we wouldn’t recommend that the average homeowner, or even an above-average DIYer, attempt to install a fiberglass pool. That’s one reason we don’t sell directly to the general public. An experienced pool builder should install a fiberglass pool to prevent horror stories like the pool popping out of the ground or damage to the pool or house from trying to position the pool.

More Research Options

Check out YouTube, Pinterest, Houzz, and fiberglass pool reviews if you want more research options. Use our online resources, such as our  “Everything You Need To Know About Fiberglass Pools” page. Or  talk to an independent dealer. Consider what questions you might ask them in advance. Questions for a pool builder might include: Do they have a warranty? What type of pool is their specialty? What is their lead time, and what does their installation schedule look like? What pool shapes, sizes, and design options do they offer? What about financing? 

There are advantages and disadvantages to fiberglass pools, so it’s essential to determine what you are looking for in your swimming pool to make the best decision for your and your family’s needs. Hopefully, this article has aided your decision, as fiberglass pool regrets are the last thing we’d want a pool buyer to experience.

What type of inground pool is the easiest to maintain? Is it concrete (gunite)? Or vinyl? Maybe it’s fiberglass? It’s an important question for the prospective pool owner. Maintenance is part of the budget and the pool lifestyle. The pool maintenance conversation is interesting in that the pool types that require the most maintenance require the most explanation. That’s not meant to scare you away from something you have your eye on, but to let you know what to expect when it comes to the time and financial resources you will pour into your pool once it is purchased. 

The variety of pool types exists for a reason. Each leverages different materials and technology toward specific purposes. Fiberglass is unique and manufactured in a controlled setting and then shipped as a unit to its site. Concrete can be very custom, is built on site, and can be quite expensive. Vinyl is also built on site, but it is relatively inexpensive to install. Let’s review the pluses and minuses of each pool type and then talk about where maintenance fits into the purchase decision for different buyers. 

For this conversation, we’ll assume you are an inground pool buyer. Above-ground pools are part of the pool market, of course, and they are incredibly inexpensive by comparison, but they typically do not last as long. In addition, the experience they offer is very different from  an inground swimming pool. We’ll discuss concrete, vinyl-lined, and fiberglass inground pools, and we’ll order that discussion from most maintenance to least maintenance. 

Concrete (Gunite) Pool Pros and Cons

Concrete pools allow for customization and creativity. They offer the most flexibility of all pools, allowing the buyer to choose the look, feel, shape, depth, size, and features. The concrete pool surface is typically rough, and as a result, can snag swimsuits and scrape kids’ feet and dogs’ paws. The cost can be higher, ranging from $50,000 to $120,000 and up. Concrete pool costs vary broadly based on customizations and region of the country. 

Concrete pool maintenance is the most involved of the three types of inground pools. The surface’s porosity welcomes algae, and  algae is tough to get at. It typically requires a weekly scraping with a steel brush to get in those nooks and crannies. To stem the algae problem, you’ll probably need a professional cleaning every three to five years for around $500. To protect the surface, you’ll also need to resurface it every 12 to 15 years for approximately $7,000 per 1,000 square feet.

Water chemistry is essential for all pools. It takes extra vigilance to ward off algae and salt, calcium and other minerals with concrete. This care generally requires filtering twice a day, therefore paying a little more in annual electrical costs. Most concrete pool owners will need or choose to hire a professional to open, close, or do a thorough cleaning each year, as well. 

The average concrete pool owner can expect to perform around 4-8 hours of maintenance per week. 

Vinyl Pool Pros and Cons

Vinyl pools also allow for a certain amount of creativity. Vinyl-lined pools can feature ledges, sitting benches, and the like. But the surface is slippery and not as conducive to these features as other types of pools. The soft vinyl surface is prone to ripping and punctures by everything from dog claws to sharp objects dropped in the pool to fallen tree limbs. Vinyl pools are relatively quick to install and, at around $25,000 to $65,000 on average, these pools are the least expensive of the three in upfront costs. 

Vinyl-lined pool maintenance is not as extensive as concrete, and you certainly won’t be using a steel brush on its more delicate surface. Your level of care will depend in part on how much you use it and how proactive you are with regular maintenance. Its propensity to rip can result in the need for patching and or liner replacements. Liner replacements can be a $3,000 to $7,500 investment every five to seven years. If water chemistry isn’t carefully maintained, the liner may need to be replaced more often. The seams of a vinyl pool can also collect algae, keeping your regular chemistry costs about double to fiberglass. With a vinyl pool, you can save a little money by filtering one time per day and using fewer chemicals than you would with concrete, and you may not need to hire a professional as often as you might with a concrete pool. 

The average vinyl-lined pool owner can expect to perform around 4-6 hours of maintenance per week.

Fiberglass Pool Pros and Cons

Fiberglass today provides the best of both worlds. Like a vinyl pool, it is quick to install—quicker in that it comes as an entirely manufactured shell ready to be dropped into an excavated backyard spot. While not as customizable as concrete pools, the breadth and creativity of the modern fiberglass pool far surpass the expectations of many first-time pool shoppers. The upfront cost of a fiberglass pool is usually a little more than vinyl and a little less than a comparable concrete pool, ranging from $45,000 to $85,000 on average. 

Fiberglass pools are the most durable of the three. The attractive gel coat that seals the surface of the thick, multilayered fiberglass material resists fading and damage. There are no seams and pores to collect algae, so that alone saves on chemicals and quite a bit of time scrubbing.

Fiberglass pools require fewer chemicals and less filter circulation, even with cutting-edge features like tanning ledges. If a concrete pool can cost close to $700 annually for chemicals and around $600 for electricity related to the filtering, a fiberglass pool should run about a third of that cost. And, you do not need to acid wash the surface every three years as you would with concrete. 

The average fiberglass pool owner can expect to perform around 1-2 hours of maintenance per week. 

Long story short, the type of inground pool that is the easiest to maintain is clearly fiberglass. If you want an even more in-depth comparison of vinyl vs concrete vs fiberglass pools, check out our comparisons of inground pools.