Choosing Between Fiberglass vs. Concrete Pools

Deciding to install a new swimming pool will have you looking forward to a summer filled with backyard memories. Before you put on that swimsuit, though, you have several decisions to make. One of the biggest challenges is choosing between fiberglass vs. concrete pool designs.

Trust our experts in swimming pool construction in NJ to walk you through the process. Learn the pros and cons of each type of material to create your backyard oasis.

What Are Fiberglass Pools?

A fiberglass design combines glass fibers and resin to create a plastic-like substance. The mixture is then applied to a mold at the manufacturing facility to shape and size the pool. The manufacturer finishes the interior with a gel coating.

When creating fiberglass swimming pools, manufacturers make them off-site to our requested specifications. They then deliver them for our installation in the area dug out of the backyard.

What Are Concrete Pools?

All the work for installing concrete pools is done at your property. We begin by excavating a hole to match the size and depth of the swimming pool.

Installers place a rebar frame in the hole to create the desired shape, then spray concrete over the rebar. After it dries, they apply a sealing treatment or tile to allow the porous material to hold water.

How To Choose a Fiberglass vs. Concrete Pool

When weighing the differences in fiberglass vs. concrete pools, it’s helpful to weigh the pros and cons of each.

Feel of Each Material

The surface texture of fiberglass differs from that of concrete. The gel coat in fiberglass makes it characteristically smooth, while the sealing material on concrete can have a sandy feel. Sealing with tiles also yields a smooth finish, but they’re pricey to install.

Durability and Maintenance Requirements

Concrete should last longer for swimming pool installations. However, even fiberglass lasts 25 years or more, so both materials are highly durable.

Concrete can be a little tougher to clean and maintain. The slightly sandy texture of the finishing material allows algae to gain a foothold, while fiberglass resists such growth.

Customization Options and Cost

Concrete is slightly more expensive to install than fiberglass, but the differences are usually negligible. The price depends on fluctuating raw material costs.

If you want odd-shaped, large, or especially deep pools, concrete is the best choice. It has almost no design limitations, while fiberglass must fit one of the molds at the manufacturing facility.

Trust Kline Brothers for Expert Construction of Swimming Pools

At Kline Brothers, we have more than 25 years of experience serving the landscaping needs of our New Jersey neighbors. Whether you want a new garden, an inground pool, or something in between, our experts can serve you.

Don’t try to decide on your own when comparing a fiberglass vs. concrete pool. Let our expert designers walk you through the pros and cons based on your personal tastes. To set up an appointment to discuss your project, call us today at (609) 494-5838.