Concrete VS Fiberglass Pools - Everything you need to know!

Custom concrete pools have always been the “go to” option when considering an in-ground swimming pool. The main reason for this is because of its longevity and ability to be fully custom built to your design or requirements. Custom concrete pools can maximise your space and create the lifestyle area of your dreams!

Fibreglass pools are becoming increasingly popular as well due to the lower installation costs and significantly shorter construction times.

The last choice is above ground vinyl liner pools where the area doesn't lend itself to building in-ground swimming pools.

The most common choices for a new swimming pool are concrete or fibreglass. Let’s go through how these two types of pools compare in the following areas:

• Overall construction cost
• Styles and sizes
• Interior finishes
• Advantages of fibreglass pools
• Advantages of concrete pools
• Lifespan

The two main attractions to installing a fibreglass pool is the ease of installation and lower cost. Though the price difference between a quality fibreglass pool installed by a reputable builder versus a custom concrete pool is much less than consumers think. Many fibreglass pools can be easily installed incorrectly, as it's a much quicker job, leaving many headaches ahead for the new pool owner. Most fibreglass pools can be installed within a week, while a concrete pool can take approximately 3 months to construct.

If control and customisability is important to you then concrete pools are the way to go! Concrete pools can be styled and designed as wild as your imagination. You can create your own little tropical oasis outside your home with with natural stone finishes or a feature waterfall. Modern and contemporary appearances can also be achieved with some sharp styling points like making the pool run the length of the back yard and adding an infinity edge for that wow factor!

Common fibreglass pools cost $35,000–$85,000 this is for the pool shell, delivery of the shell onsite, a crane to lift into position and all the relevant approvals and labour required to complete the job. Jobs can also be much more depending on how fancy you get with landscaping, accessories, and water features.

We don’t think DIY-ing a fibreglass pool is a good idea, You would save approx $5000 - $10,000 Although the risk of problems is much greater and can cost you more to fix than what you saved!

Tip: Always ensure ALL aspects of the completed project are clear and noted in the tender and contract!

Concrete pool construction usually costs between $40,000 and $100,000. The higher costs mainly come from the specific shape, size and requirements needed to complete the job. Additional materials are needed for any changes, but you have a much more robust, and timeless design!

Fibreglass pools typically run up to 4 - 5 metres wide, 6, 8, 10 or 12 metres long, and 1.2 - 1.8 metres deep. They’re created from pre-designed molds, so you’re creativity is limited to the established shapes and sizes.

Outside of the structural size restrictions, you can customize a fibreglass pool to any aesthetic with water features, tanning ledges, tiles, and colourful lights and finishes.

Once the ground is excavated (1 - 2 days), 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 3–5 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.

There are so many options with surface finishes (pebble or tile), steps and making it custom fit to any size yard you have, so the sky is the limit with your design and ensures best use of the space.

You can make the pool any length or shape your imagination allows

Working with a concrete pool shell you can do whatever you like to the interior.

You can add ledges, alcoves, steps and swim-outs

Concrete pools are perfect if you want to create a natural pool-scape or blend the style into your existing house landscape designs.

Concrete pools will take longer (obviously) to construct

On average, concrete pools will cost you more, and the cost will rise with the additions of shapes and designs.

The expected lifespan of a fibreglass pool would be 15-20 years, you will find that within this time the surface of the pool may need recoating, this is common from the normal wear and tear on the surface, chemically treated water and expose to the sun.

Tip: A pools life can last much longer (in both concrete and fibreglass applications) if the pool is adequately maintained during its lifespan.

Concrete pools can last up to 40+ years, commonly not requiring any form of resurfacing, this may only be done for aesthetics.

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 :)