The Pros And Cons Of A Fibreglass Pool
Fibreglass pools have become the most popular choice for pool owners over the years and it’s not hard to see why: they provide immense value for their initial investment cost and offer a range of benefits. However, as with every investment nothing can be perfect. There are certain downsides to a fibreglass pool. But most of these disadvantages are not inherent to the fibreglass pool itself. Instead, the only cons you’ll find are more along the lines of whether or not a fibreglass pool will suit your needs in the first place.
Pros Of A Fibreglass Pool:
Remember that range of benefits we mentioned earlier? The pros of fibreglass pools far outweigh any of the potential cons. These include:
Low Maintenance And Easy To Handle
One of the salient benefits that fibreglass pools provide are their low maintenance cost. This is especially so when compared with their concrete counterparts. A fibreglass pool will require less overall cleaning. Concrete pools on the other hand will need regular scrubbing and increased doses of chlorine to keep the pool free of algae. Concrete pools will also require occasional acid washing.
Fibreglass pools require less chlorine and chemicals overall – as they are extremely resistant to algae – and this will save you costs in the long run. Additionally, because of the nonporous nature of a fibreglass pool’s surface, you won’t have to spend your weekends scrubbing your pool!
Long Lasting
Did you know that fibreglass pools are some of the most durable around? That’s right: a fibreglass pool can last up to 30 years! In fact, it can last even longer with proper care. It’s important to think of your pool in terms of an investment: because at the end of the day that’s what it is! 30 years of cherished memories with your family. If you’d like to read more about how long your fibreglass pool can last – and how you can make it last longer – click here.
Smooth And Comfortable Surface
Fibreglass pools have a nonporous and smooth surface. What this means is it will feel much more comfortable on the soles of your feet as compared with the rough and scratching nature of concrete. Plus, fibreglass pools have great non-slip surfaces. This will contribute to an overall more enjoyable swimming experience.
Incredibly Resistant To Algae!
As you might have guessed, fibreglass pools are fantastic at resisting algae! This is because the nonporous nature of fibreglass pools offers nowhere for algae to grow and hide. Concrete, on the other hand, is a paradise for algae – it can get in all the cracks and seams! Because fibreglass pools are significantly less prone to algae, you can spend far less money on chlorine to fight off algae, as well as less time scrubbing your pool clean.
Save Hugely On Lifetime Costs
If you’re looking to enjoy your weekends in a beautiful pool and save money while you do it – then fibreglass pools are for you! Did you know that a fibreglass pool doesn’t require an acid wash every 3-5 years, or a replastering/retiling of the pool interior, or need to replace any pool liner over the course of its lifetime like concrete and vinyl do? We did! By not requiring any of those lifetime maintenance costs we mentioned, a fibreglass pool could save you a huge amount; all while you get to spend your weekends relaxing by the pool!
…A fibreglass pool does not require many of the same lifetime running costs that vinyl and concrete do. You’ll actually save money in the long run!…
Fast, Simple And Convenient Installation
By far one of the biggest draws of fibreglass pools is the installation process. Namely, it’s really fast! From the moment you order your dream fibreglass pool, it could be installed in as little as 7 days, provided all requirements are met. Fibreglass pools are transported by truck and then lifted onto your property by crane. No need to wait around for concrete to dry here!
Enjoy The Amazing And Therapeutic Benefits Of Salt Water
Fibreglass pools are completely compatible with salt water chlorinators – unlike concrete! The reason is simple: salt water can be up to 5 times more abrasive to concrete surfaces than chlorine is. This typically eats away at the structure of concrete pools, driving up maintenance and repair costs. Fiberglass pools however do not suffer from the same problem. The smooth surface of fibreglass is compatible with salt water and covers any parts of the pool (such as nuts and bolts) that would otherwise be damaged by the saltwater!
Cons Of A Fibreglass Pool:
As we mentioned earlier, there is no such thing as a perfect pool (although we think Barrier Reef Pools come pretty close.) We would be remiss in our values of transparent and honest communication if we didn’t inform you of some of the potential cons of fibreglass pools. So, instead of hiding them away like others might, we’re committed to teaching you how to avoid them!
Somewhat Limited Design Choice
Perhaps the most noticeable downside to fibreglass pools is the fact you are limited to choosing from pre-existing moulds. You won’t be able to design your own pool unfortunately. The limited designs are done so that manufacturing of fibreglass pools can be done in a fraction of the time concrete pools are.
Although being limited in design choice may sting at first, many of our satisfied customers here at Barrier Reef Pools have appreciated their choice being streamlined. Installing a pool can be a sometimes complex and energy-consuming process. Add on top of this the ability to choose any kind of pool design – even make your own – and the choices can sometimes become overwhelming. Having a set number of fibreglass pool designs to choose may make the process easier for you!
More Costly Than Vinyl Pools
Although Fibreglass pools are significantly cheaper than concrete ones, they do in turn cost more than vinyl pools. Vinyl pools are typically the go-to for customers looking to install a cheap-as-possible option for their pool. One thing to remember is that liner replacements can be costly however.
If you are interested in purchasing a fibreglass pool, it’s worth it to keep in mind that fibreglass pools have a noticeably lower lifetime running cost than vinyl. This is because Fibreglass pools don’t need to replace their pool liner every 5-9 years.
Using An Inexperienced Installer Could Damage Your Pool
Although this is not necessarily a problem specific to fibreglass pools – bad installation can affect all pools – it’s worth your time learning how to avoid this. An inexperienced or simply sloppy pool installation job can wreak havoc on the longevity of your fibreglass pool. Bulges, cracks and leaks are only the start. In order to avoid damaging your pool from the start, you should use only certified and professional pool installers.
Here at Barrier Reef Pools, our team of pool experts and installations professionals have 30 years of servicing Australian families. When you choose Barrier Reef Pools, you’re choosing Australia’s favourite fibreglass pools. See our range today!