A private pool is no less than a luxury. There is no dearth of options in private pools and herein, we are going to discuss a comparison between concentrate and fiberglass swimming pools.
Read on to understand the difference, and to figure one which is a smart investment.
- Durability
In terms of durability, the concrete swimming pool holds the edge over the fiberglass swimming pool because of the material and construction methods of the previous one. With proper cleaning, maintenance, and resurfacing, your concrete swimming pool can last for decades. A high-quality finishing product must be used to seal the concrete pool for increased longevity.
Fiberglass pools can also last for ten to fifteen years. However, the interior gel finish needs to be reapplied after every five years. These pools are less durable compared to concrete pools as they don’t use the same reinforced method. The fiberglass shell of the pool can be installed on top of the concrete or sand surface below, making it prone to cracking.
- Maintenance
More maintenance is required for a concrete pool than a precast pool. Regular scrubbing and cleaning are needed, along with the regular balancing of chemicals. Complete resurfacing has to be done every ten to fifteen years to maintain the pool surface. The more the pool is maintained, the longer it will last, thus ensuring your investment is protected.
The fiberglass pools require minimal maintenance and are much easier to clean. The smooth surface area of your fiberglass pool makes it convenient to control bacteria and algae which becomes rough on the concrete pool surface. Fewer chemicals are required for preventing bacteria growth in the pool water. Therefore, the fiberglass pool’s lifetime cost is much lower than a concrete pool.
- Aesthetics
The flexibility in terms of appearance is limitless for a concrete pool. You can customize as per your taste and space limitations. You can add features such as rocks, fountains, and more that can be constructed seamlessly with your pool to create the perfect landscape that has an inviting feel.
The fiberglass pool is limited in terms of shape & size as the design of the shell is precast, and the installation area must adhere to your dimensions. If you have limited space or features like large trees, then fiberglass is not the best choice. One thing to note here is that since the fiberglass pools are shipped via trucks, therefore the shell can not be larger than 16 feet, width of the road, and any other dimension. You can upgrade your fiberglass pool by installing a patio cover that offers much-needed extra entertainment space or a cooking area to set up a barbecue.
- Cost
Construction of a concrete residential swimming pool cost is somewhere between $50,000-100,000. The concentre pool involves higher maintenance costs, so you need to plan your budget accordingly. The maintenance cost is over 25,000 every ten years because of the intensive upkeep.
The cost of a fiberglass pool is between 12,000 and 30,000 depending upon the size of the pool and upgrades. The long-term expenses involved with a fiberglass pool are the use of chemicals and electricity; the approximate cost is about $4,000 for every ten years. You can also consider installing a pool cover to further lower down the pool maintenance costs.
- Installation Time
Once the shell of the fiberglass pool has been constructed and transported to your location. It takes about two to three days for the swimming pool to be ready for swimming. From placing the order to the end, it won’t take longer than five weeks.
For a concrete pool, it takes about three to six months. So, if you don’t want to disturb your daily routine and spend your Sundays listening to the construction noises, then opt for a fiberglass pool.
Which One is Best?
Concentrate Pool is Best-Suited If
- You have a higher budget than $50,000.
- You require a custom shape or depth.
- Can spend time and money to maintain the pool in the long run.
- Need a completely natural design.
Fiberglass Pool is Best-Suited If
- If you have a constrained budget and space.
- Want least possible maintenance.
- You need quick & easy installation.
Now the ball is in your court. You have to take the final call based on your specific needs. Talk to a local pool professional. They will best advise you on which one aligns with your requirements.
