What are the pros and cons of fiberglass inground pools?

Question

We're trying to decide between a fiberglass or gunite pool. I know the fiberglass is less expensive. How do they compare?

Answer 1

Fiberglass Inground Pools

A fiberglass pool is factory-manufactured and then installed in one piece in your back yard when your excavation is completed. Basically, a fiberglass pool resembles a giant bathtub.
Points to Ponder:

* Price: Fiberglass pools are generally more expensive to purchase than concrete inground pools, but can save you money over the life of the pool. This is because they typically will require fewer chemicals than concrete pools. You also avoid future replastering and liner replacement costs.
* Maintenance: Unlike a plaster finish, a fiberglass shell does not change the chemistry of the water, so you often will use less acid. Because of the non-porous surface, you don't need to brush the pool nearly as often as a plaster-finished concrete pool. However, you typically do not need to brush a pebble-finish concrete pool as often as a plaster-finish pool, so when discussing this option with a dealer, be sure you are comparing apples to apples.
* Installation: Once your yard has been excavated, the pool is delivered in one piece and installed. Construction time is generally about two weeks.
* Shock absorbent: What happens if the earth moves? Fiberglass has a shock-absorbing ability that allows it to flex up to 2 feet. However, there also are new concrete construction techniques that allow concrete to flex. So, it's important to remember that if you live in an earthquake-prone area, be sure to have your dealer explain the features and benefits of fiberglass and concrete construction.

Concrete Inground Pools

A concrete pool is custom-built to your specifications by the pool-builder you choose. It is the most common type of in-ground pool, and the initial installation generally costs less than a fiberglass pool. Concrete pools are constructed in stages, including pool layout and excavation; steel installation; plumbing installation; equipment set; gunnite or shotcrete application; tile and coping installation; and interior finish installation. Although they take longer than fiberglass pools to construct, they have the advantage of virtually unlimited shapes, sizes and designs. The construction time on a concrete pool is generally three to 12 weeks.
Points to Ponder

* Price: The initial installation of a concrete pool is generally less than a fiberglass inground pool. So, if you want an in-ground, but the total up-front outlay is of concern to you, a concrete pool might best fit your needs.
* Variety of Finishes: A variety of interior finishes is available, including plaster, paint or pebbles. These provide you with several options to best suit your budget and desired design.
* Weather Resistant: Some industry specialists believe that concrete pools are well-suited to parts of the country that have extremely high summer-time temperatures. Concrete also is perceived by some to function better in areas where the soil is very expansive.
* Strength: Both fiberglass and concrete are materials of great strength. Talk to your dealer or builder about the implications of your soil type and weather on both types of materials.

Answer 2

Fiberglass Pools Pros And Cons

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
What are the pros and cons of fiberglass inground pools?
We're trying to decide between a fiberglass or gunite pool. I know the fiberglass is less expensive. How do they compare?

Answer 4

I had a pool repair service for several years..
Go with the Fiber Glass.. No Cracks, easier to clean and the upkeep is a fraction of the cost..

If it does get a crack in it, it is very easy to repair.
Make sure you get a GOOD pump and Filter.
No peeing in the pool, it will knock you chlorine to pieces.

Answer 5

Pros= cheaper than concrete, and quicker to install.
Cons=patching fiberglass, underwater, is probably kind of tricky!

Answer 6

you can design that inground pool too, but you only can pick the fiber.....