Concrete v Fibreglass

17 September 2018

One of the biggest decisions in the process of building a new pool is the choice between a fibreglass or concrete pool. While both are great choices, often one option will suit your needs better than the other.

We've put together a list of the benefits and drawbacks of both types of pool construction so that you can make a more informed choice, but if you'd like to have a chat about your options in a little more detail, please feel free to give our friendly team a call on (02) 4972 5586.

Fibreglass Pools

Fibreglass Pools have become a very popular choice in recent years, with many pool owners opting for this construction method to save time and money.

There are a number of benefits of a fibreglass pool:

  1. The cost of a fibreglass pool is often less than a concrete pool, not only for the initial installation, but also for maintenance and care. 
  2. Fibreglass pools are usually much quicker to install. With a fibreglass pool, a lot of the work on your pool is done in the factory before it even gets to your property. In fact, often the fibreglass shell will be ready for installation before the hole has even been dug. Installation of a fibreglass pool may only require weeks, compared to months for a concrete pool.
  3. Fibreglass pools are often much less maintenance than a concrete pool. The material used to construct a fibreglass pool is naturally smooth and non-porous, which results in less bacteria growth, and therefore less mould and algae. Usually all that is required is some basic care 
  4. Fibreglass pools are also a great option for the environment - less cleaning means less chemicals.
  5. Fibreglass pools are incredibly durable and flexible, and can handle movements in the earth much more effectively than a concrete pool.

Of course, there are also drawbacks:

  1. While RickStar Pools offers a wide range of options, your fibreglass pool is ultimately selected from a catalogue, so there are limitations in size, shape and colour available for your pool. 
  2. Customisation is also not possible with a fibreglass pool in the same way that it is with a concrete pool.
  3. It's also worth considering that a crane is often needed to transport your pool, so depending on your property's accessibility this may not be an option.

Concrete Pools

While fibreglass pools may seem like the best option from a price perspective, the level of customisation available when constructing a concrete pool can make it the optimal choice.

There are a couple of important benefits of a concrete pool:

  1. Concrete pools are available in a variety of finishes, from pebble to tile, and a concrete pool can be a classy, eye-catching addition to your home.
  2. If you're looking for complete control over the design of your pool, a concrete pool is your best option. With a concrete pool you have complete flexibility over shape, size, features and colour. Concrete pools can also be seamlessly integrated with your garden (poolscaping), making them a true feature of your property.

As well as a couple of important drawbacks to note:

  1. Concrete pools are constructed from scratch on your property, so they will be slower to construct than a fibreglass pool.
  2. With flexibility and control over design comes increased cost - the price of a custom concrete pool can rise quickly.
  3. Concrete surfaces are porous, unlike fibreglass pools, so they can absorb water and become a breeding ground for algae and mould.

So which is better?

Ultimately, the choice of which construction method to choose comes down to your own personal requirements. If you're looking to save money and time, but still want a high quality pool, fibreglass may be your best option. On the other hand, if you're interested in having complete control over the colour, shape, size and features of your pool, a concrete construction is a great choice.

Of course, if you'd like to discuss your options with the RickStar Pools team, give us a call on (02) 4972 5586.