How Long Does a Fiberglass Pool Last?

Does Manufacturing Make a Difference in Durability?

When choosing a pool, homeowners often consider factors like shape, size, and maintenance needs, but manufacturing quality is another critical element—especially when it comes to durability. How a pool is manufactured directly impacts its lifespan, resilience, and the overall maintenance required to keep it in peak condition. Fiberglass pools are known for their impressive durability, partly due to advanced manufacturing techniques distinguishing them from other pool types.

The quality of the materials used in constructing fiberglass pools is critical to their longevity. High-quality fiberglass shells, such as those incorporating innovations like the Thursday Pools Trifecta of Strength, offer superior durability. This unique manufacturing process uses layers of high-performance materials to create a pool shell that can endure extreme conditions while remaining flexible and structurally sound. This meticulous process allows fiberglass pools to maintain their shape and stability for decades, often outlasting the other pool types that rely on on-site construction.

In contrast to fiberglass, vinyl liners and concrete pools have different manufacturing and construction methods that can affect their durability. Concrete pools are poured and shaped on-site, meaning their quality depends on proper curing and the construction team’s skill level. Without rigorous quality control, inconsistencies can arise, leading to weak spots or structural issues requiring more frequent repairs. Similarly, vinyl pools require periodic liner replacement, creating an ongoing maintenance cycle that fiberglass pool owners can avoid.

Ultimately, manufacturing quality is key to fiberglass pool durability, ensuring that these pools stand the test of time with fewer repairs and lower maintenance. When installed by a reputable dealer, a well-made fiberglass pool is an investment that combines resilience, beauty, and low environmental impact, giving homeowners a lasting addition to their outdoor spaces. By understanding the importance of manufacturing, homeowners can make informed choices that impact their inground pool’s performance and longevity.

Common Misconceptions About Fiberglass Pool Durability

Misconceptions about fiberglass pool durability often stem from outdated information, comparisons to other materials, and misunderstandings of fiberglass as a construction material. Early fiberglass pools were more prone to fading and cracking, but today’s gel-coat finishes and structural integrity advancements have made them exceptionally durable. Concrete is often assumed to be the most durable pool material due to its density. However, it’s more susceptible to cracking under stress from ground shifts and temperature changes, unlike fiberglass’s flexible, resilient structure. Today’s fiberglass pools are among the most durable inground pool options, using modern materials and professional installation.

One misconception is that fiberglass pools are unsuitable for cold climates, where freezing temperatures might cause them to crack or warp. The truth is that fiberglass pools are quite resilient in cold weather due to the inherent flexibility of fiberglass materials. This flexibility allows them to handle significant temperature fluctuations. Unlike concrete, which can crack as water expands when it freezes, fiberglass pools absorb these expansions and contractions without damage. Proper winterization further enhances their durability, ensuring the pool stays protected through even the harshest winters.

Another common belief is that fiberglass pools don’t last as long as concrete pools, implying that they may need frequent repairs or replacement. However, fiberglass pools are known for their impressive longevity. Their non-porous gelcoat finish isn’t prone to scratches, chipping, or algae growth. It also resists staining and reduces the accumulation of chemicals and debris, making them a lower-maintenance option that keeps beauty for years.

Finally, some assume that pool equipment, such as robotic cleaners, could damage a fiberglass pool’s surface. In reality, fiberglass pools can easily handle routine equipment use without issue. They can even handle pet claws without damaging the finish. The durable structure of fiberglass pools withstands regular use, ensuring they stay scratch-free and maintain their sleek appearance.

Potential Problems with Fiberglass Pools

While fiberglass pools offer many benefits, it’s also essential for homeowners to weigh the potential problems of fiberglass pools. Three limitations that every pool buyer should consider include:

Limitations in Pool Depth: Fiberglass pools are generally limited to a depth of around 4 to 8 feet, which may be ideal for recreational swimming, lounging, and family activities but doesn’t accommodate deeper zones. Deeper designs are usually limited due to weight, size, and transportation constraints. Additionally, safety standards for backyard pools mean that many fiberglass models are designed with family-friendly depth limits to minimize risks. This restriction can be a drawback for homeowners interested in deeper swimming zones. Concrete or vinyl liner pools built on-site can be custom-designed (for a price) to nearly any depth specification. This flexibility allows for deeper sections that cater to specific activities, like diving. Fiberglass pools still work well for most residential purposes, providing enough depth for wading, floating, and swimming. However, this may be a potential problem for people looking for very deep pools.

Limited Ability to Incorporate Complex Structural Elements into the Pool Shape: Fiberglass pools are designed as single-piece shells with integrated features like steps and seating, which means the manufacturer predetermines their shapes. While homeowners can certainly add natural rock formations, waterfalls, or intricate landscaping around the pool, these elements cannot be incorporated directly into its shape or structure. For instance, fiberglass pools remain fixed in shape, unlike concrete pools, which can be custom-built on-site to include cascading ledges or custom entry points. Homeowners who envision unique in-pool features, such as custom steps molded into specific areas, may find concrete pools offer greater flexibility for these integrated customizations. However, fiberglass pools still work beautifully with creative landscaping around the perimeter, allowing for visually stunning outdoor environments without altering the pool shell itself.

Limitations With Color Selection and Finish Customization: Fiberglass pools come with a selection of gel-coat colors pre-set by the manufacturer, providing a range of choices but no custom color choices. Homeowners must typically select from the colors offered. However, fiberglass manufacturers have a variety from whites and grays to several shades of blue that appeal to homeowners. Fiberglass pools can also be customized with tile or pebble overlays at the water line to add texture and color for a distinct look without altering the gel coat color.

While fiberglass pools offer exceptional durability and low maintenance, their limitations are essential when deciding if they are the right choice for your backyard.

How Can Fiberglass Pool Installation Impact The Life of Your Pool?

You’re creating an outdoor space where you’ll cherish moments to remember for a lifetime, but it’s also a significant investment. Choosing the right local pool builder for your pool project is critical. It can impact the durability of your pool. The fiberglass pool installation process is as important as the materials used to construct the pool. Improper installation can lead to long-term damage, but following the best fiberglass installation practices ensures your pool lasts for decades.

Full disclosure: Thursday Pools manufactures fiberglass pool shells and sells them nationwide through an independent network of dealers and pool builders. We do not install pools, but some of our staff have decades of experience installing all pool types. We also work with dealers to develop innovations that ensure the installation process is smoother for them, resulting in beautiful and durable pool projects.

One of the most critical aspects of the installation process is proper leveling. Fiberglass pool leveling refers to how evenly the pool sits in the ground. If the pool is not leveled correctly, it can cause uneven water distribution, strain on the pool structure, and potential cracking over time. Experienced installers use precision equipment to ensure your fiberglass pool shell is perfectly level before backfilling begins. Improper leveling, especially on sloped terrain, can significantly impact your pool’s lifespan or lead to costly repairs.

Another critical component is backfilling. During installation, builders will fill the area surrounding the fiberglass pool shell with a specific type of material, such as gravel, to support the pool shell. Poor backfilling practices can result in voids or shifting, leading to cracks or bulges in the pool walls. Thursday Pools developed the Backfill Eliminator®, a patented (US Patent 10,450, 766) innovation that prevents these issues by helping eliminate human error during the backfilling process.

Improper fiberglass pool installation can also affect the long-term durability of accessories like skimmers and pool lighting. For instance, if the skimmer is not installed correctly, it can lead to leaks or structural damage to the pool walls. The unique design of fiberglass pools requires installers to account for a seven-degree angle when installing skimmers, which can be challenging without the right tools. Thursday Pools offers solutions like the Lucky 7® and Double-O7® skimmers, designed to simplify installation and reduce the risk of errors that could compromise the pool’s durability.

Beyond leveling and backfilling, properly anchoring the pool is critical, especially in areas prone to soil movement or high water tables. The Geo-Anchoring Pool Wall®, another innovation from Thursday Pools, secures the pool shell to the earth, preventing movement or floating, which can occur in extreme conditions. This system enhances the pool’s structural integrity and ensures it remains in place.

Choosing a professional installer who follows the best fiberglass pool installation practices is critical to maximizing the life of your pool. Read our guide for more details on the many aspects of fiberglass pool installation.

Fiberglass Pool Maintenance's Effect on Durability

Fiberglass pools stand out for their sleek look, durability, and lower maintenance needs. However, maintenance is an essential piece of the puzzle. Preserving a fiberglass pool’s appearance requires a water chemistry plan customized to fiberglass, as gunite’s recommended ranges can cause fiberglass pool damage.

Unlike concrete, fiberglass pools are calcium-free and don’t require calcium. Too much calcium in a concrete pool is removable, but excessive calcium in a fiberglass pool can cause scaling and permanent surface damage, compromising its smooth finish. Maintaining lower calcium hardness levels is essential to keep fiberglass surfaces in excellent condition. That said, fiberglass pools typically fare best with calcium hardness below 120 ppm.

It’s important to note that saltwater systems require extra special attention because salt can quickly elevate pH and chlorine levels, leading to possible surface damage. So, if you choose a saltwater system, expect to spend a little more time checking your pool water chemistry.

As for fiberglass pool maintenance costs, homeowners often find fiberglass pools more affordable than other types. Because of their resistance to algae and staining, fewer chemicals are necessary to maintain water clarity and balance. According to our dealer network, fiberglass pool owners report spending significantly less on chemicals and cleaning supplies than those who own concrete or vinyl liner pools.

Maintaining a fiberglass pool involves less hassle and expense than other types of pools. If it’s important for your pool-buying decision, keep exploring to learn more about fiberglass pool maintenance.

What is the Environmental Impact of Fiberglass Pools?

When designing an outdoor living space, homeowners increasingly weigh environmental impact alongside aesthetics, function, and cost. Beyond the initial beauty of a pool, sustainability is a growing concern, especially as awareness rises around eco-friendly material, resource conservation, and long-term environmental effects. While pools were traditionally luxury items with high water and energy demands, modern innovations allow environmentally conscious pool construction and maintenance choices. In the search for eco-friendly pool options, many homeowners are surprised to discover that the material choice can significantly reduce their pool’s environmental footprint.

Concrete and vinyl pools have been mainstays in the industry for years, but they come with significant maintenance requirements and environmental trade-offs. For instance, concrete pools require frequent chemical balancing and resurfacing over time to maintain their structure and appearance, resulting in considerable material and chemical waste over the years. Vinyl-lined pools need liner replacements every 5-10 years, which creates waste and means using new resources and chemicals each time. Both materials can lead to ongoing costs and impacts on the environment, from energy consumption for heating to chemical runoff affecting surrounding areas.

Fiberglass has evolved from a niche choice to a favored option for eco-conscious homeowners who want a durable, lower-maintenance pool. Advancements in fiberglass technology now allow these pools to retain heat better, use fewer chemicals, and have minimal impact on water conservation. With the rise of sustainable landscaping, water-smart irrigation, and solar-powered outdoor lighting, fiberglass pools fit seamlessly into an environmentally friendly backyard design.

Is fiberglass environmentally friendly? The answer to that question lies in examining how these pools compare in terms of durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency. Fiberglass pools support sustainable practices over their lifetime. We encourage you to explore the unique ways fiberglass pools stack up as an eco-friendly investment that brings beauty to your outdoor space and promotes long-term environmental stewardship.

Is a Fiberglass Pool a Smart Investment?

Have we mentioned fiberglass pools are durable and last a long time? They’re built to withstand shifting soil and freezing temperatures and don’t need the same major upkeep that comes with concrete or vinyl pools. But the benefits of fiberglass don’t stop there; let’s look at two more reasons why a fiberglass pool might be the perfect investment for your home and how it could be just what you need.

Increased Property Value and Appeal: Fiberglass pools can boost property value, adding appeal to your home—especially to buyers looking for low-maintenance outdoor features. The modern, smooth look of fiberglass and its long-lasting quality stand out on the market, and homes with fiberglass pools attract buyers who want a ready-to-enjoy pool without the hassle of major updates or repairs. Even though a pool doesn’t automatically translate to a dollar-for-dollar increase in property value, the right type of pool can make a property highly desirable. The value increase is particularly likely in warmer regions or communities where pools are common. For these reasons, a fiberglass pool can be a strategic investment, offering both enjoyment and the potential for a more attractive property when it comes time to sell.

Installation Speed and Reduced Disruption: We have already mentioned that the installation is critical to a fiberglass pool’s durability, but did you know it’s a quicker process than other pool types? Since they come pre-molded, these pools are ready to go upon delivery and can be installed in days rather than the weeks or months a concrete pool might require. This shorter timeline reduces disruptions to your property and lets you enjoy your new pool sooner. For many homeowners, a faster installation means fewer construction-related inconveniences, making fiberglass pools the clear choice for those who want to keep their yards intact without extended build times.

If these benefits sound appealing, you may wonder if a fiberglass pool aligns with your specific needs.

Pool Durability Based on Your Climate

When choosing an inground pool, climate significantly determines which material will perform best over time. Vinyl, gunite (concrete), and fiberglass pools react differently to environmental conditions, so it’s essential to understand how your local climate can affect your pool’s longevity and maintenance needs. Let’s explore how these three pool types compare when exposed to various climates, including extreme temperatures and weather patterns.

Cold Climates and Freeze-Thaw Cycles

In regions that experience cold winters, freeze-thaw cycles can cause major issues for pools, particularly when the ground expands and contracts. Here’s how each pool type holds up:

• Vinyl Pools: While vinyl liner pools can be more affordable upfront, they are vulnerable to damage in freezing temperatures. If water seeps behind the liner and freezes, it can cause the liner to stretch or tear. Additionally, liners typically need to be replaced every five to nine years, which can add up in colder climates where freezing conditions may accelerate wear and tear.
• Gunite (Concrete) Pools: Concrete pools are highly durable but face significant challenges in cold climates. Because concrete is porous, it absorbs water, which can freeze and cause cracks or surface damage. Concrete pools may have higher long-term ownership costs in regions with freeze-thaw cycles due to repairs.
• Fiberglass Pools: Fiberglass pools have a natural advantage in cold climates. The material is non-porous and flexible, allowing it to withstand ground movement caused by freezing and thawing without cracking. The flexibility of fiberglass also means it can adjust to minor shifts in the earth, making it an ideal choice for areas prone to temperature fluctuations and ground movement.

Hot Climates and Sun Exposure

For homeowners in hot, sunny climates, UV exposure and extreme heat can affect pool material differently:

• Vinyl Pools: High temperatures and sun exposure can cause vinyl liners to become brittle over time, which can lead to cracking and fading. While vinyl pools are often more affordable to install, the liners are susceptible to UV damage, which may require more frequent replacements in areas with intense sunlight.
• Gunite (Concrete) Pools: Concrete pools can handle high temperatures well, but constant sun exposure can cause the surface to fade or degrade over time. Additionally, hot climates can accelerate the need for resurfacing, especially if the pool is not maintained correctly or if the water chemistry is off balance. While gunite pools are generally sturdy in the heat, they require more upkeep in sunny regions to preserve their appearance.
• Fiberglass Pools: Fiberglass pools stand out in hot climates thanks to their UV-resistant gel coat. This surface resists fading and helps keep the pool cool by retaining less heat than concrete. Fiberglass can endure prolonged sun exposure, making it an excellent option for areas with scorching summers.

Rainy and Windy Climates

In regions with heavy rainfall and wind, pool surface and maintenance play into a pool’s durability:

• Vinyl Pools: Because vinyl liner pools are susceptible to algae growth, frequent wind and rain-blowing algae spores into a vinyl pool can require more maintenance. Algae can even proliferate under the liner on the walls and floor, causing staining that’s not easily remedied.
• Gunite (Concrete) Pools: Since concrete is porous, certain strains of algae can penetrate the surface, leading to staining and damage over time. Pool owners may find themselves spending more on chemical treatments and surface repairs to keep their gunite pool in top condition.
• Fiberglass Pools: Fiberglass pools shine in humid or rainy climates due to their non-porous surface, which resists water absorption and algae growth. The smooth gel-coat finish makes it harder for organic materials to cling to the pool, reducing the need for frequent cleanings. 

When choosing an inground pool, you may want to consider your local climate. While we believe fiberglass pools offer the best all-around performance across various climates and are durable, there are more considerations for determining if fiberglass or any pool type is right for you.