How to Choose a Fiberglass Pool

There are many choices when you're looking for an in-ground pool to turn your backyard into a mini-oasis. In the past, people often rejected fiberglass pools on the basis that the designs resembled a bathtub, and they preferred the design flexibility offered by concrete. Now homeowners can choose sleek new fiberglass pool designs that offer less maintenance than traditional pools at a reasonable price.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Consider the immediate positive points of a fiberglass pool. Workers manufacture fiberglass pools in a factory, so production takes place in a more controlled environment. Installation is quicker than for a standard concrete pool. Also, fiberglass pools may be better for earthquake prone areas due to the one piece flexible design.

2. Think about the cost. Compared to a concrete pool, the installation costs for a fiberglass pool are cheaper. The average price for a fiberglass pool ranges from $9,000 to $15,000. While vinyl liner pools are cheaper than fiberglass pools, they don't stand up well to long-term use and you may need to replace a vinyl pool sooner than you'd planned.

3. Know the long term benefits of a fiberglass pool. The smooth fiberglass surface resists bacteria and algae, which means that the pool requires less chemicals to keep the pH in balance. A fiberglass pool also stays warmer for a longer period of time than a concrete pool.

4. Customize your pool using different surfaces and shapes. The surface of the fiberglass can be gel-coated or colored; choose a tile mosaic for an additional personal touch. You can customize your pool with options like a shallow end, a sports/volleyball pool section or an attached spa.

5. Work on the entire package. Like concrete pools, fiberglass pools now offer additional options to beautify your backyard. You can now choose options such as waterfalls/water features, decking, lighting or tiling to customize the final look of your pool.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a reputable pool contractor. Read and fully understand any contracts you may sign. Ask for references.
• Another option is fiberglass panel pools; your contractor can build the pool on-site and this style offers increased flexibility in pool design.
• Be aware that fiberglass pools may need re-coating at some point in the future due to wear and tear.