As a leading fiberglass pool installer for the Northeastern Massachusetts region, we are huge fans of the products we work with. However, we are also clear that fiberglass pools aren’t right for everyone. There are times when you’re better off installing a concrete in-ground swimming pool (or even no pool at all).

 

In today’s post, I want to shed some light on the positives and negatives of fiberglass pools. Specifically, I want to point out a few situations in which you definitely wouldn’t want to go with a fiberglass model.

 

Before I get to that, though, let’s start with a quick rundown of the advantages you may have come across.

 

Why Fiberglass Pools Are So Popular

Before we talk about the drawbacks of fiberglass pools, it makes sense to take a moment to go over the advantages. Homeowners tend to love them for a few reasons.

 

First, fiberglass pools look great. Obviously, you install a swimming pool because you want to use it rather than look at it. Still, it’s a nice feeling to have visitors come to your home and admire your latest addition. Most of our customers take aesthetics into account when deciding between different options.

 

The next thing to love about fiberglass swimming pools is that they can be purchased and installed quickly. As with any type of swimming pool installation, there is a bit of prep work to be done (usually digging out space and leveling the ground). However, you can choose a fiberglass pool and have it put into place within a matter of weeks, rather than the months you need for a traditional concrete pool.

 

 Owners also appreciate that fiberglass pools tend to be durable and low-maintenance. They don’t require as much cleaning, repair, or chemical balancing as traditional in-ground pools do. It’s always great when you can spend more time enjoying swimming in your pool and less time getting it ready for your family and friends to use.

 

And finally, it’s worth mentioning that fiberglass pools tend to be less expensive over the long run. They cost a little more upfront, but come with very long warranties and aren’t subject to the same types of cracking and settling as concrete pools. Combine that with the decreased maintenance and you have something that will save you money each and every summer.

 

With that bit of preface out of the way, let’s get back to the main topic. When might you not want to have a fiberglass pool?

 

When Fiberglass Swimming Pools Aren’t Right for You

A fiberglass swimming pool is like any other element that you add to the backyard of your house. There isn’t necessarily going to be a “better” or “best” choice. Instead, there is only what works for your outdoor space, along with your preferences and budget.

 

I point that out because, despite their advantages, fiberglass pools aren’t the best choice for every situation.

 

One drawback of fiberglass swimming pools is that they only come in certain sizes. Having them pre-manufactured means they can be delivered and installed quickly. However, it also means that you can’t order any shape, size, or depth you want. You’ll have to be happy with something your preferred manufacturer provides. In some cases, that can prove too restricting for certain homeowners.

 

Fiberglass pools only come in certain sizes, and aren’t manufactured in especially large sizes overall. It isn’t practical or economical to manufacture panels for public-sized swimming pools. So, if you want a much larger than normal fixture in your backyard, then fiberglass might not be a great option.

 

I want to take a moment to especially call out depth restrictions separately. If you want a swimming pool that is particularly shallow or deep, then a fiberglass model isn’t going to be right for you. That’s not an issue for most homeowners and families, but it can matter if you enjoy diving from a board or want a pool that isn’t very deep for the safety of children.

 

One hidden benefit of concrete pools is that they can feel a bit more “traditional,” in the sense that they tend to match people’s memories. So, if you’re trying to re-create the sort of pool you grew up with, then concrete might offer a sort of nostalgia. Although most homeowners prefer the gel coat feel and durability of a fiberglass pool, it isn’t to everyone’s tastes.

 

Additionally, it’s worth reiterating that fiberglass pools can sometimes be more expensive in terms of upfront costs. Usually, when we are being hired as patio contractors it’s to remake an entire backyard or outdoor space. As a result, the cost of swimming pool installation is included as part of the bigger job. But if you are simply looking to add a swimming pool to your property for the smallest cash outlay, you might be better off with a concrete pool (although it will cost you more to maintain later).

 

In most cases, the advantages of fiberglass pools outweigh the drawbacks for our customers. However, you want to be careful about working with any fiberglass pool installer who isn’t willing to tell you the whole truth from both sides. Fiberglass is a durable, cost-effective material that works well for residential swimming pools. That doesn’t make it the perfect or automatic choice for every homeowner.

 

Want to Talk With a Fiberglass Pool Installer About Your Property?

If you’re trying to decide whether to add a swimming pool to your property, or which fiberglass pool installer to hire, we can give you the information and insights you need. Contact the Stefano’s patio renovation team in Saugus, Massachusetts, today to schedule a free consultation at your home. You will get design ideas, answers to your questions, and a no-obligation quote from someone with years of experience.

 

Whether you decide to work with us or not, it could be the first step toward giving yourself a more beautiful and usable backyard space. So don’t delay, contact us today and find out how easy it is to transform your backyard into a special place that you can relax and feel comfortable in.