As Sydney’s swimming pool experts, we know all about the age-old debate between concrete and fibreglass pools. At FreeStyle Pools, we see both materials as popular leading choices for residential swimming pools. Deciding on the right one largely depends on individual factors like budget, design preferences and long-term maintenance expectations. To help simplify the decision-making process, we put together a concrete vs fibreglass pools guide with expert insights. Dive into our detailed comparison of concrete and fibreglass pools, including durability, cost, design flexibility and maintenance needs.
Durability
Let’s begin with durability, which serves as a key factor in any comprehensive comparison of concrete and fibreglass swimming pools. For homeowners, it’s important to weigh up the resilience of concrete pools to withstand heavy use, weather extremes and customised builds versus the durable smooth surface of fibreglass pools, designed to resist cracking and fading.
Keep in mind the potential wear and tear in both options over the years. One of the biggest fibreglass pool benefits is the durability of the gel coat finish. This makes fibreglass an ideal material for a variety of climates and situations. However, issues with pool chemistry can damage the surface finish, whether you have a standard chlorine, salt chlorine, UV, ozone or mineral sanitation system.
As for a concrete swimming pool comparison, this type of pool is also very durable. Interior finishes including the basic pebble are high-strength and resistant to damage from pets, toys and tree branches. However, you also need to keep an eye on pool water chemistry, as improper levels can cause premature degradation to the surface finish, requiring an early replacement. Concrete swimming pools usually need replastering every 15 -20 years, which can also involve replacing waterline tile.
The structural lifespan of a concrete pool is typically 50 years, however can last much longer than this. They are regarded as a more permanent and long lasting than a fibreglass pool, however will require resurfacing. Fibreglass pools shouldn’t need resurfacing, however being a flexible “shell” they can have cracking around the top of the pool and pavers / tiles can separate from the substrate due to this slight movement. Fibreglass pools should be expected to last 30-40 years and will need replacing or significant re-work to keep them going.
Cost of Pool Installation Options
When looking at luxurious yet low-maintenance pools, you may be pleased to learn that both concrete and fibreglass can be affordable pool solutions, as long as you’re with the right builder. Initial construction costs, including materials and labour, may be up to 20% to 30% more for concrete, given they are built on-site through custom pool construction which will require significantly more labour and material compared to fibreglass. However, tailored pool installation options can help with different price points.
Site access is often a limiting factor for fibreglass pools. Since the pool needs to be craned off a truck and lifted into position, some sites are just physically impossible to lift a fibreglass pool in. Whether there are powerlines in the way, or the distance from the lift point, to final pool position is too far, the cost of crane hire can become very significant.
In comparison, prefabricated fibreglass options tend to be cheaper upfront, although both pool types have long-term expenses to consider such as necessary maintenance and potential repairs. Concrete pools may have slightly higher ongoing costs due to the need for refinishing. Fibreglass swimming pools have a non-porous surface which prevents stains and algae growth, therefore requiring fewer cleaning chemicals. Rest assured the FreeStyle Pools team is here to help with pool surface material comparisons and custom options for every budget.
Design Flexibility
When it comes to affordable pool solutions in Sydney, there are both concrete and fibreglass pool benefits to think about. For example, there are limitless, fully customised designs possible with concrete, accommodating any size, shape or unique feature. Whether you’re on a flat or sloped property, custom pool construction is made possible with heavy-duty, long-lasting concrete pool designs.
Fibreglass pools are more suited to level sites and have a limited number of styles, sizes and colours to choose from. For quick installations, fibreglass is typically preferred, as they can be installed within a few weeks in many cases. Meanwhile, concrete pools may take a 10 weeks or longer to build, depending on the complexity of the design. A reputable pool design and building company can help you choose depending on your outdoor space and timeframe preferences.
Also consider how much of the project is going to be completed by the pool company. Many fibreglass builders will leave the tiling and fencing to be completed by the home owner. You will need to factor in your time and availability of your chosen trades to complete the job.
Maintenance Needs
Another key consideration is how maintenance requirements influence long-term user convenience. At FreeStyle Pools, we offer insights into the routine upkeep necessary for concrete pools, including careful water management cleaning to prevent premature wearing of the interior finish. All pools, whether fibreglass or concrete will need the water to be maintained carefully to keep the water safe for swimmers, clean and clear and algae free. In terms of fibreglass pool surface material comparisons, this smoother, non-porous surface makes cleaning easier and reduces acid use compared to concrete pools which interact with the water balance and effect pH and calcium hardness.
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Your final choice of pool will come down to a combination of the following factors: durability, cost, design options and maintenance. We hope this fibreglass vs. concrete swimming pool comparison helped give you some ideas for tailored pool solutions. Please get in touch with FreeStyle Pools to explore your options for quick installation swimming pools or take a look at our portfolio.