Installing a swimming pool can be a great deal. It is one of the most expensive items you can have in your home and takes up a lot of space in your backyard. Also, once you have it installed, you wouldn’t want to change it. So, you have to get it right the first time. For that to happen, you have to do your research. There are different types of pools you can choose from. In this article, we will be discussing the differences between two of the most popular types of pools — concrete and fibreglass pools. It will help you figure out which one is the better option for you.
Fibreglass Pools
Fibreglass pools have increased in popularity in the last few years. They come pre-built from the manufacturer and their installation takes up only a few weeks. Here are some of the pros of opting for a fibreglass pool:
- Cost-effective – Compared to concrete pools, fibreglass pools cost about 20% less. Also, since they require fewer chemicals, less maintenance, and less energy consumption, the ongoing costs will also be less.
- Fast installation – Tradition pools like concrete pools can take three or more months. On the other hand, fibreglass pool installation takes only a couple of days to weeks.
- Warm and clean – A fibreglass pool is able to hold the heat in for a longer time since it acts as a natural insulator. Also, since the gel-coating on the pool is non-porous and smooth, it prevents the growth of algae and mould.
- Non-abrasive surface – Fibreglass pool isn’t as hard as a concrete pool. Its non-abrasive surface will be soft on your feet and your children won’t accidentally sustain scratches from the surface.
- Durability – Fibreglass pools are known for their durability. You may think it might not be stronger than a concrete pool. But, the fact is that if you get a high-quality fibreglass pool, it will be able to withstand movements better than a concrete pool.
There are some downfalls to installing a fibreglass pool:
- Limitations on the size and shape – Fibreglass pools come pre-built from a factory. So, you will have a list of pre-determined shapes to choose from. Also, since they are transported by road, the shapes and sizes are further limited, especially in width. However, this is not a dealbreaker as most manufacturers offer a diverse range of sizes and shapes. More often than not, you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for. Top pool builders also offer customisation services through which you can add more features to your pool.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools are still a popular option among families. They offer a wide range of benefits, including the following:
- Appearance – In the case of concrete pools, you will have so many options with the surface finished, sizes, steps, and more. The sky is the limit. You will be able to use the space in the best way.
- Size – As long as you have the space, you can install the pool in any shape or length.
- Interior finishes – With concrete pools, you will have an array of options for interior design. There are several customisation options available as well, including alcoves, ledges, and more.
- Poolscaping – If you want to have a natural poolscape and ensure that your pool blends with your existing house’s aesthetics, concrete pools will be the perfect option.
Just like with fibreglass pools, there are some cons of installing a concrete pool:
- Longer installation process – Since a concrete pool has to be constructed on-site, the whole process can take several months. In the case of a fibreglass pool installation, it takes only a few days or weeks to complete the process.
- Cost more – Concrete pools cost more than fibreglass pools. If you have a complex design, the cost will increase as well. If you continue to add customisation options, your costs might skyrocket.
- Rough on the skin – One of the biggest disadvantages of having a concrete pool is that its surface has a rough finish, which can be hard on bare skin. If your kids are boisterous and active in the pool, they might end up with scrapes and grazes.
- Higher running costs – Concrete pools are porous, meaning that bacteria and algae can breed and grow easily. You will end up spending more time cleaning and maintaining your pool. Also, if the black algae get inside the surface of the pool, getting rid of it might become impossible.
- Expensive upkeep – With the concrete pool, ongoing maintenance can get expensive. Also, you will have to resurface or repaint the pool every 10 to 15 years, it can hurt your pockets.
It is important to note that concrete pools are significantly more expensive than fibreglass pools. Apart from the initial overlay, the design and construction work also takes longer and costs more. If you customise the design to add more elements, the price will go even higher. With the concrete pools, you will also have to get pebbling or tiling. Also, as is common with construction projects, there is a risk of over-running the job, which will increase the costs even more.
As mentioned above, the ongoing maintenance cost of concrete pools is higher as well. You will need more chemicals for keeping your pool clean. More energy will be utilised in heating the pool. The fibreglass pool has a lower installation cost. It also requires less maintenance, which makes it a more affordable option.
Conclusion
As you might see from the above pros and cons of both types of pools, you might be able to see that fibreglass pools are a better option. Not only are they affordable, but also will ensure that you won’t have to spend a lot of time or money maintaining them. Fibreglass pools are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes. They are also durable and cost-effective. However, you also need to know that with the concrete pool, you will have more flexibility in terms of design and size. Contact Perth’s leading pool company, Barrier Reef Pools Perth! We can help you find the best pool for your backyard.
Installing a swimming pool can be a great deal. It is one of the most expensive items you can have in your home and takes up a lot of space in your backyard. Also, once you have it installed, you wouldn’t want to change it. So, you have to get it right the first time. For that to happen, you have to do your research. There are different types of pools you can choose from. In this article, we will be discussing the differences between two of the most popular types of pools — concrete and fibreglass pools. It will help you figure out which one is the better option for you.
Fibreglass Pools
Fibreglass pools have increased in popularity in the last few years. They come pre-built from the manufacturer and their installation takes up only a few weeks. Here are some of the pros of opting for a fibreglass pool:
- Cost-effective – Compared to concrete pools, fibreglass pools cost about 20% less. Also, since they require fewer chemicals, less maintenance, and less energy consumption, the ongoing costs will also be less.
- Fast installation – Tradition pools like concrete pools can take three or more months. On the other hand, fibreglass pool installation takes only a couple of days to weeks.
- Warm and clean – A fibreglass pool is able to hold the heat in for a longer time since it acts as a natural insulator. Also, since the gel-coating on the pool is non-porous and smooth, it prevents the growth of algae and mould.
- Non-abrasive surface – Fibreglass pool isn’t as hard as a concrete pool. Its non-abrasive surface will be soft on your feet and your children won’t accidentally sustain scratches from the surface.
- Durability – Fibreglass pools are known for their durability. You may think it might not be stronger than a concrete pool. But, the fact is that if you get a high-quality fibreglass pool, it will be able to withstand movements better than a concrete pool.
There are some downfalls to installing a fibreglass pool:
- Limitations on the size and shape – Fibreglass pools come pre-built from a factory. So, you will have a list of pre-determined shapes to choose from. Also, since they are transported by road, the shapes and sizes are further limited, especially in width. However, this is not a dealbreaker as most manufacturers offer a diverse range of sizes and shapes. More often than not, you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for. Top pool builders also offer customisation services through which you can add more features to your pool.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools are still a popular option among families. They offer a wide range of benefits, including the following:
- Appearance – In the case of concrete pools, you will have so many options with the surface finished, sizes, steps, and more. The sky is the limit. You will be able to use the space in the best way.
- Size – As long as you have the space, you can install the pool in any shape or length.
- Interior finishes – With concrete pools, you will have an array of options for interior design. There are several customisation options available as well, including alcoves, ledges, and more.
- Poolscaping – If you want to have a natural poolscape and ensure that your pool blends with your existing house’s aesthetics, concrete pools will be the perfect option.
Just like with fibreglass pools, there are some cons of installing a concrete pool:
- Longer installation process – Since a concrete pool has to be constructed on-site, the whole process can take several months. In the case of a fibreglass pool installation, it takes only a few days or weeks to complete the process.
- Cost more – Concrete pools cost more than fibreglass pools. If you have a complex design, the cost will increase as well. If you continue to add customisation options, your costs might skyrocket.
- Rough on the skin – One of the biggest disadvantages of having a concrete pool is that its surface has a rough finish, which can be hard on bare skin. If your kids are boisterous and active in the pool, they might end up with scrapes and grazes.
- Higher running costs – Concrete pools are porous, meaning that bacteria and algae can breed and grow easily. You will end up spending more time cleaning and maintaining your pool. Also, if the black algae get inside the surface of the pool, getting rid of it might become impossible.
- Expensive upkeep – With the concrete pool, ongoing maintenance can get expensive. Also, you will have to resurface or repaint the pool every 10 to 15 years, it can hurt your pockets.
It is important to note that concrete pools are significantly more expensive than fibreglass pools. Apart from the initial overlay, the design and construction work also takes longer and costs more. If you customise the design to add more elements, the price will go even higher. With the concrete pools, you will also have to get pebbling or tiling. Also, as is common with construction projects, there is a risk of over-running the job, which will increase the costs even more.
As mentioned above, the ongoing maintenance cost of concrete pools is higher as well. You will need more chemicals for keeping your pool clean. More energy will be utilised in heating the pool. The fibreglass pool has a lower installation cost. It also requires less maintenance, which makes it a more affordable option.
Conclusion
As you might see from the above pros and cons of both types of pools, you might be able to see that fibreglass pools are a better option. Not only are they affordable, but also will ensure that you won’t have to spend a lot of time or money maintaining them. Fibreglass pools are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes. They are also durable and cost-effective. However, you also need to know that with the concrete pool, you will have more flexibility in terms of design and size. Contact Perth’s leading pool company, Barrier Reef Pools Perth! We can help you find the best pool for your backyard.
