When you’re looking into options for backyard swimming pools, you’ll need to decide between a concrete or fiberglass pool for your home.
When you decide it’s finally time to invest in that backyard swimming pool you’ve been dreaming of for years, there’s a big question you need to answer first: concrete or fiberglass? These two material options come with their own unique sets of pros and cons that need to be considered before you commit to one or the other. Your circumstances and budget can help to determine which option is right for you and your family.
Concrete
Concrete swimming pools are poured on-site to the exact specifications of the client, so you can enjoy a fully-custom pool right in your own backyard. There are some downsides to consider when choosing a concrete swimming pool, but the ability to create your dream pool might be worth it.
Pros
- Can be done in almost any custom design
- Extreme durability makes it resistant to daily wear or damage from the weather
- Typically lasts at least 50 years, but upkeep can lengthen its lifespan indefinitely
Cons
- Significantly higher up-front cost
- Significantly higher maintenance costs
- Installation can take 3-6 months
- Concrete pools are more susceptible to algae
Fiberglass
What fiberglass pools lack in customization options, they make up for in easy maintenance and lower overall costs. Unfortunately, they don’t last as long as concrete pools, which could nullify the costs saved over time when you have to replace the entire pool.
Pros
- Lower up-front costs
- Lower maintenance costs
- Installation takes 3-5 weeks
- Resistant to algae growth
Cons
- Pre-manufactured shells limit customization
- Shipping is costly
- Not all gel coats are created equal
- Only lasts 25-30 years
Which is Better?
As you can see, there isn’t really a clear winner here. While someone with a more limited initial budget might choose fiberglass to save on up-front costs, another person will go with concrete for a fully-customized luxury swimming pool experience.
Also, a lot of sources tout fiberglass as the ultimate contender when it comes to saving money both initially and over time. However, it’s important to note that while concrete pool maintenance costs more per 10 years, that pool can stay in the ground and continue to be used for at least 50 years—proper maintenance can keep it running indefinitely. On the flip side, fiberglass pools only last 25-30 years. This means you will have to pay the initial costs of consultation, design, manufacturing, shipping, and installation all over again. It is, however, the more affordable option in the short run, and that can benefit many potential pool owners.
Do You Have More Questions About Spas? Ask Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC
If you still have questions about how to build a brand new swimming pool, Sunrise Premiere Pool Builders LLC is here to help you. At Sunrise Pools, we can build and install your pool, spa, or hot tub and provide you with pool chemicals, services, and more. If you have questions, feel free to give us a call at 410-349-3852. To see more from us and for tips and tricks, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.