Highest Cost Of Ownership
As demonstrated in the chart above, concrete pools cost exponentially more money to own.
They cost the most upfront: $50,000 to $100,000 or more.
Acid washing by professionals every three to five years, more money in chemicals, more money spent on electricity, and refinishing/remodeling all add up to tens of thousands of dollars more over the years.
Pool Installation Time And Ease
If youre looking for a reliable pool thats quick to install, fiberglass is without a doubt a better option. Because the fiberglass pool shell is already fabricated, installing the pool is easy the pool shell simply needs to be buried in the ground.
Installing a concrete pool is a far more complicated and drawn-out process. While fiberglass pools typically take only days to install, a gunite one will take weeks, or even months. If you truly want a concrete pool, this shouldnt put you off, however. Your pool should last a lifetime once its installed, so waiting a bit longer for installation shouldnt be the ultimate deciding factor.
Should you ever wish to have your pool removed, youd be better off with fiberglass. Seeing as these pools are essentially prefabricated shells buried in the ground, you can get rid of the pool by digging up the shell and filling the hole with ground again.
Fiberglass Vs Vinyl Liner Vs Concrete Pool: An Unbiased Review
Theres lots of information online about the various types of swimming pools available. If you plan to install an inground pool, you really only have three options: vinyl liner, fiberglass, and concrete. Each type of pool has advantages and disadvantages. Unfortunately, an unbiased review of all three is almost impossible to find. Thats because virtually every comparison out there is written by a pool company that sells and installs only one type of pool. Thats like going to a Toyota dealer and asking for a fair comparison between Toyota, Chevy, and Ford pickup trucks. Even if they are trying to be honest, you know they have a motive. So before you trust any of these comparisons, take a look at the rest of the website and see what type of pool they sell. We guarantee that the pool they sell will be the cheapest, easiest pool to install and own.
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How Is A Fiberglass Pool Made
Fiberglass pools are made using a mold to carve out the shape of the pool. Although different manufacturers use different process sequences, they essentially use the same materials and have similar results.
There are three steps in manufacturing a fiberglass pool.
Selecting The Inground Swimming Pool Type For You
There are three types of inground swimming pools composite fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete. Each swimming pool type offers features and benefits that can suit your desired look, feel, and budget. However, its essential to also look at how these materials will affect your costs over the swimming pools life. To learn more and compare these three types of inground pools, read our Fiberglass Pools vs. Concrete Pools vs. Vinyl Liner Pools article.
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Final Verdict: Should I Choose A Concrete Or Fiberglass Pool
Both concrete and fiberglass pools have their advantages, but one may suit your needs more than the other.
You should look into concrete pools if:
- You have an unusually shaped backyard or many trees and rocks.
- You want a unique pool shape.
- You plan on diving into the pool.
- You wish to use the pool for competition-style swimming.
- You have a budget of over $50,000.
- You prefer the natural look of concrete.
- You enjoy taking care of pools or can afford to hire a professional.
You would benefit from a fiberglass pool if:
- You have minimal natural features in your backyard.
- You do not plan on diving into the pool.
- You want to use the pool for more leisurely purposes.
- You have a smaller backyard.
- Your budget is over $45,000.
- You do not want to work or pay to maintain it.
- You want your pool ASAP.
Whichever option you go for, your pool will boost your houses value and provide hours of enjoyment for years to come for your family.
Why A Fiberglass Pool Is Better Than A Concrete Pool
One of the first decisions to make when choosing a pool is the type of pool. There are three main kinds of pools: fiberglass, vinyl liner and concrete. In a past blog post, we explored the differences between fiberglass and vinyl liner pools, so in this post, well investigate why a fiberglass pool is better than a concrete pool.
A composite fiberglass swimming pool, as we produce at Leisure Pools, can be installed faster than a concrete pool because the shell of the pool is already made and delivered to your home for installation. A fiberglass pool can be installed in a matter of days whereas a concrete pool can take months. Keep in mind that while a swimming pool is being installed, your backyard will be in disorder and not very attractive, so a shorter installation period is ideal.
Durability
At Leisure Pools, we stand behind our durability and believe pools should last a lifetime. Thats why with our composite fiberglass pools we provide a lifetime structural warranty and our Composite Armour construction allows to offer a lifetime structural osmosis warranty. Also, Leisure Pools are made with high-performance vinyl ester resin, as opposed to polyester resin, making our pools stronger. We believe pool owners should have the peace of mind that their pool will remain strong and durable.
Maintenance
Aesthetics
Now is a great time to make a splash into pool ownership. Contact Leisure Pools today and Get Swimming in Quality and Style.
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Cons Of Fiberglass Pools
Unfortunately, fiberglass pools are limited in shape and size. These pools get transported on a truck, which only allows for them to be up to about 16′ wide and 40′ long. Most are not very deep compared to vinyl or concrete. More options come out all the time for fiberglass, like new finishes, tiles, etc. however, the overall max size remains reasonably the same.
Fiberglass pools can be just as expensive as a comparable concrete pool in a lot of cases, and can also develop hairline cracks both on the top and around the body. These can be unsightly, and cause leaking on top of being expensive to repair.
Fiberglass Vs Concrete Pool Installation Costs
Both concrete and fiberglass pools will cost roughly the same to install. The average cost of fiberglass pools is approximately $50,000, whereas a concrete pools tend to cost about $55,000. This price difference is hardly significant enough that it should affect your choice of pool.
There are so many factors that can make either a good choice. It all depends on your needs and preferences. Because of this, installation costs shouldnt be your main concern when installing.
While both concrete and fiberglass pools cost roughly the same to install, fiberglass is cheaper to maintain. Fiberglass is more resistant to algae and will generally be cheaper to maintain than concrete, so if a low-cost pool thats easy to maintain is what you want, fiberglass might be a better option.
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Pros Of A Vinyl Liner Pool
- Low initial cost
- Doesn’t foster algae
Low initial cost
Vinyl liner pools have the lowest initial swimming pool cost of any of the three types of inground pools.
Customizable shape and size
There are no limitations of the length, width, and depth of vinyl liner pools.
Nonabrasive surface
The vinyl liner material is smooth to the touch.
Doesn’t foster algae
The vinyl material used in vinyl liner pools is also relatively non-porous, so it inhibits algae growth.
What Is A Good Size Family Pool
For a family of 8 people, a pool size of 18 by 36 feet is adequate. Even if you all decide to swim at the same time, there will be enough space for everyone. A rectangular shape is the best choice for this size of the pool. If there are six or less in your family, a pool size of 16 by 32 feet will be sufficient.
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Which Is Easier To Maintain
Pool maintenance is a major consideration when choosing the right pool for you. Ideally, you want to spend as much time enjoying your pool as possible, which means most pool owners prefer a pool which requires less maintenance.
Fibreglass pools have the upper hand here. They have a gelcoat surface which is resistant to algae and bacteria, making them easier to clean. They also require less harsh chemicals to keep them clean, so they are more hygienic swimming environments for you and your family. This is particularly important if you have children.
Concrete pools, on the other hand, have to be tiled or pebbled. This makes them more porous, creating ideal conditions for the growth of algae and bacteria, so you will need to use more chemicals and clean them more often if you want to keep them clean and safe to swim in. Even this is not always enough concrete pools can attract black algae, which is almost impossible to remove once it is established in your pool.
In addition, a fibreglass pool will never need resurfacing or repainting, which concrete pools tend to need every 10 to 15 years. These are important things to think about when choosing your pool, especially if you have a busy lifestyle and cannot commit to spending large amounts of time maintaining your pool.
Its The Best Time To Build A New Pool Ever
Your outdoor function and finishes should reflect your personality, lifestyle, and the architecture of your home. Are you looking for a sleek swimming pool design to mimic the architectural simplicity of your mid-century modern home? Or, in contrast, would a swimming pool nestled in a lush landscape to create the feel of a natural spring-fed treasure be more your vibe? Your theming will set the tone for your entire landscape and the required budget to get started.
When it comes to the pool, focus first on the size, shape, finish, and realistic expectations for use before getting into how it first into the surroundings and amenities. Then build on step-by-step with your contractors for a cohesive design and all-inclusive budget to keep it affordable.
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Find Out What Pool Type Works Best For You
Whether youre looking at fiberglass or concrete pools, each type has its own drawbacks and advantages. The decision is ultimately up to you to decide and figure out what is the best fit for your backyard. Ask your pool builder and find out more information about both choices. Conduct more research about your HOA and see if there are any restrictions.
Fibreglass Vs Concrete Installation And Construction
Once the ground is excavated , the fibreglass pool shell will be delivered onsite and using a crane, the pool will be installed into its position. Installation would take 1 – 2 days and then a further 2 -3 days to plumb the equipment, fill and hand the pool over. Any sort of landscaping or decking will take another week or two. From beginning to end, the process usually takes 35 weeks.
Fact: It takes approx 3 months to construct a concrete pool with all approvals, excavation, construction and finishes. Click the button below to see all the steps of building a pool.
No matter what type of pool you decide on building, one of the best things to consider is to get the right pool equipment for it! Mr Pool Man has pool bundles for all types and sizes of swimming pools so that you’re guaranteed to have a worry-free and crystal clear pool right from the get go! We also have chemical bundles, lighting bundles, and cleaning bundles which are heavily discounted and perfect for the new pool owner! Click below to browse our pool equipment bundles on our online shop.
Do you have any questions about this topic or the featured products? No worries, we’re here to help! Drop us a question down below and we’ll get back to you ASAP.
Happy swimming 🙂
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The Two Stages Of The P Rocess
The process for a fiberglass pool involves two separate stages: manufacturing and installation.
Unlike concrete and vinyl liner pools, which are constructed as they are installed, fiberglass pools are actually made in a factory beforehand. The pool shell is then transported to the site and installed there in only a few weeks.
This is why the installation process is so shortmost of the work is done before you even see the builders.
The Quality Check
We look for any cracks or inconsistencies in the fiberglass. While each manufacturers process may differ slightly, make sure they quality check the pool shell.
The builder should also weigh the pool shell to make sure it falls within an acceptable range . A pool that falls outside that range may have insufficient or faulty material.You can ask for a dig sheet and compare the weight listed there to the weight logged on the side of your pool.
Vinyl Swimming Pool Traits
Like any other type of swimming pool, vinyl swimming pools come with their own unique pros and cons. Heres what you should know before you make your decision:
- Price. If youre looking for a budget-friendly swimming pool, vinyl tends to be more affordable.
- Easy, affordable repairs and/or replacements. Getting a new liner can be like getting a whole new pool.
- Less algae. Vinyl liners are less prone to algae growth than concrete pools and that means less time scrubbing your pool walls and more time swimming and relaxing!
Some things to keep in mind:
- Vinyl Liner Lifespans. You can expect a vinyl pool liner to last anywhere from 6 to 10 years.
- Sometimes less durable, but easily replaceable. Vinyl needs more care to last as long as concrete or fiberglass, and a vinyl pool liner may not stand up to heavy use as well as other types of pools.
- Additional costs over time. Yes, vinyl pools are the least expensive to purchase up-front but you generally need to replace the liner every 6 to 10 years.
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Cost Of Building An Inground Swimming Pool
Creating a backyard Life of Leisure is more popular and more affordable than ever before. Just look at the coverage of outdoor living on the Discovery Networks Home and Garden Television and the Do-it-Yourself networks alone. In fact, dreamers of incredible outdoor spaces turn to social media such as , , , and in ever-increasing numbers.
You can do more than dream of pool ownership when you have the right information upfront. Its essential to understand your short and long-term equipment and maintenance costs, not just the costs of building an inground swimming pool before diving in.
Fiberglass Pros And Cons
A fiberglass pool is manufactured offsite as a giant fiberglass shell. The shell is delivered to your home in one piece and dropped into a prepared hole.
Fiberglass Pros
A fiberglass pool comes prefabricated. This means that installation is pretty quick and easy. The pool can be installed, leveled, and backfilled in just a couple of days, although it will be a few weeks before you can take your first swim. The prefabrication includes steps, seats, and ledges. It may even include rails and ladders. Think of a fiberglass pool like a mobile home. It shows up from the manufacturer ready to go.
Fiberglass pools also have pretty low maintenance costs. Most fiberglass pools have a gel lining. The lining is non-porous, which means theres not much of anywhere for algae to take hold. That makes cleaning a fiberglass pool less labor intensive than other types of pools. The non-porous shell also doesnt absorb chemicals or react with the pool water, minimizing the cost of added pool chemicals.
A fiberglass pool is more expensive to install than a vinyl liner pool, but less expensive than a concrete pool. Over time, however, you can recoup some of the installation costs with the lower maintenance costs. A fiberglass pool with a gel coating takes a long time to fade and rarely needs resurfacing or repairs.
Fiberglass Cons
In terms of initial cost, a fiberglass pool is cheaper than concrete but still more expensive than a comparably-sized vinyl liner pool.
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Concrete Pools Vs Fiberglass Pools: An Honest Comparison
Time for a radical statement: fiberglass pools arent for everyone. I know! Contain your shock! River Pools manufactures and sells them, but our priority is one thing: customer satisfaction. We want you to be informed so you can make the best decision for you and your family…even if that means not choosing us.
The most common choices for a long-term pool are concrete or fiberglass. Lets go through how these two types of pools compare in the following areas:
- Cost
