Thinking about putting a pool in your backyard? You’ve probably wondered: should I go with concrete or fibreglass? Each has its pros and cons, and the right pick really comes down to what matters most to you. Let’s walk through the factors—without all the chunky paragraphs.
Durability & Longevity: Which Pool Lasts Longer?
Concrete Pools:
– Super sturdy when built right.
– Can handle heavy use and impacts.
– Needs more maintenance: cracks can happen, and you’ll probably need to resurface every 10-15 years.
– Handles wild weather and temperature swings well.
Fibreglass Pools:
– Made in a factory, so the quality is consistent.
– Resists staining and handles pool chemicals like a champ.
– Surface can fade or get hairline cracks over decades, especially under lots of sun.
– Usually needs less long-term maintenance.
Bottom line:
If you want something that’s predictable and easy to care for, fibreglass is probably your friend. If you want a pool that can be shaped exactly how you want and you don’t mind a bit more maintenance, go concrete. For more inspiration or to explore your options, check out Gold Coast swimming pools by Splash in Style.
Installation: How Fast Can You Swim?
Fibreglass:
– Quickest option.
– Pool shell is delivered in one piece and dropped into place (like a giant bathtub!).
– Less mess, less time—sometimes you’re swimming in a week or two.
Concrete:
– Takes longer—think weeks, not days.
– Lots of on-site work: digging, building forms, pouring concrete, curing, finishing.
– Weather can slow things down.
Pro tip:
No matter what, make sure your contractor knows their stuff. Good planning = fewer delays.
Design & Customization: Can You Get Creative?
Concrete Pools:
– Want a pool shaped like a guitar? Or a mini-lagoon? Concrete’s your ticket.
– Custom depths, built-in spas, sun shelves—if you can dream it, it’s doable.
Fibreglass Pools:
– Pre-made shapes and sizes.
– Less flexibility, but plenty of sleek, modern designs to choose from.
– You can still pick the color and some finishes, but not much beyond that.
Decision time:
If you want “one-of-a-kind,” go concrete. If you’re cool with “pick from a catalog,” fibreglass is super convenient.
Maintenance: How Much Work Is This Going To Be?
Concrete:
– More cleaning (surface can be rough, so algae and stains stick).
– Watch for cracks and plan on re-plastering every decade or so.
– Needs more chemicals to balance water.
Fibreglass:
– Surface is smooth, so dirt and algae don’t cling as much.
– Lower chemical use.
– Just keep an eye on the gelcoat and check plumbing connections.
Quick checklist for both:
– Test water 2x a week in summer, once a month in winter.
– Clean filters, vacuum, and inspect equipment regularly.
– Get a pro to check things out once a year.
Surface Feel & Looks: What’s It Like To Swim In?
Concrete:
– Can be rougher on your feet (but you can choose smoother finishes or pebbles).
– Tons of options for colors, textures, and finishes.
Fibreglass:
– Always smooth—no scraped toes here!
– Modern, glossy look.
– Fewer choices for custom finishes.
Cost: What’s The Real Price Tag?
Upfront:
– Fibreglass is usually cheaper to install and gets done faster.
– Concrete costs more, especially if you want a unique shape or fancy finishes.
Long-term:
– Concrete: More spent on resurfacing and maintenance over time.
– Fibreglass: Fewer repairs, less chemical use, but fixing a damaged shell can be pricey (though rare).
Tip:
Don’t just look at the install price—think about the next 10-20 years.
Climate & Site: Does Your Location Matter?
Climate:
– Fibreglass handles freeze/thaw and high groundwater well.
– Concrete does better in hot, dry climates but needs more care in harsh winters.
Your Backyard:
– Soil stability and drainage are huge.
– Both types need a proper base to prevent shifting and cracking.
Do this:
Get a soil test before you start! It can save tons of headaches later.
So, Which Pool Wins?
Here’s a quick recap:
– Go concrete if: You want a totally custom pool, don’t mind a longer build or more maintenance, and want it to last for decades.
– Go fibreglass if: You want quick installation, easy care, predictable costs, and you’re happy with factory shapes.
No matter what you choose, a well-built pool is an awesome upgrade. Think about how you’ll use it, how much work you want to do, and what fits your budget. Still not sure? Chat with a few pool builders—they’ll have real-world advice for your area and your backyard.
Happy swimming! 🏊♂️
