You have decided to build a swimming pool, but the numerous materials available in the market have left you confused. Traditionally concrete was the preferred material for the construction of a swimming pool. But with advances in technology materials like vinyl liner and fibreglass have entered the market. All the materials have their advantages and disadvantages. Fibreglass swimming pools are increasingly becoming popular. You are tempted to install a fibreglass pool, but you are not sure of its advantages. Don’t worry. We give you a detailed comparison between fibreglass and concrete pools on various parameters to help you make an informed decision.
Installation Time and Expenses.
Concrete pools take longer to build. Building a concrete pool is an activity which requires money and patience. They have to be built from scratch in your backyard. Constructing a concrete pool is a lengthy process which may take months to complete. They are also more likely to overshoot the budget due to the longer installation time. During the construction period, you will have to put up with the inconvenience of a dug up backyard and workers and equipment in your backyard.
Fibreglass Pools Sydney come in prefabricated moulds, and they are made in factories and transported to your house. The main shell is manufactured in the factory. You don’t have to deal with the details of the construction process. Installation gets over in a couple of weeks.
It is important to install the fibreglass shell correctly. Incorrect installation leaves your fibreglass pool vulnerable to damages. If installed properly, then fibreglass pools can withstand ground movements in the earth better than concrete pools. This means that you can swim in a pool within weeks of deciding to install one. Due to the quick installation process, the final cost doesn’t fluctuate from your estimate.
Maintenance.
All swimming pools require regular maintenance. Concrete pools require extensive maintenance to keep the water safe. Concrete is porous and easily attracts dirt and algae. You will need to brush the entire surface of the pool with a steel brush at least once a week to scrap of dirt and algae. It is a labour-intensive process. You need strong chemicals to kill the algae. Concrete pools attract black algae which are extremely difficult to remove. All these involve considerable expenses on chemicals.
Concrete is alkaline, which increases the pH of the water in the pool. You need to check for water chemistry daily and add hydrochloric acid to maintain the water pH levels in the pool. The shell of concrete pools need to be acid washed every 3-5 years.
Fibreglass has a smooth surface, and hence dirt and bacteria do not stick to it. You can clean your fibreglass pools yourself with a soft brush. The Gelcoat of fibreglass pools does not affect water quality. It is sufficient if you check the water quality weekly. Fibreglass pools require less addition of chemicals. Less addition of chemicals makes the water extremely safe for children. Many times it is sufficient to follow the manufacturers instructions for proper maintenance of fibreglass pools.
Heating and Energy Costs.
Concrete absorbs heat, and hence concrete pools take longer to heat. This means an increase in heating expenses. Due to higher tendency to attract dirt and dust, you will need to concentrate more on the filtration process if you have a concrete pool. You will have to run your pump for a longer duration to keep the water clean and disperse the chemicals added to water.
Fibreglass pools heat quickly. They also retain heat for a longer time. This translates into reduced energy expenditure for heating. Fibreglass pools require a single circulation of water through the filtration system daily. Your pump runs for a lesser time saving you energy costs. The fibreglass pools attract less dirt and cause less stress on your filter.
Surface Texture.
Concrete pools have a rough surface. Children can get scratches and cuts due to the rough surface. They can get hurt if they accidentally hit the surface. You have to incur considerable expenses on laying tiles or pebbles to make the surface smooth and visually appealing.
Fibreglass pools have a glossy surface. They are completely safe for children. Their surface is shiny and visually attractive by default. Many manufacturers offer additional finishing options. Fibreglass pools do not require resurfacing, and many manufacturers offer a lifetime guarantee on their products.
Durability
The concrete structure of a pool is extremely durable and long-lasting. But your salt chlorine generator may negatively impact the interior finish of your concrete pool. You may have to replaster concrete pools every 10-15 years. Even waterline tile may need to be replaced.
Fibreglass shell and Gelcoat interior finish are long-lasting and extremely durable. Salt chlorine generator has no impact on a fibreglass pool. Fibreglass is a flexible and tough material.
Shapes and Size.
You can construct concrete pools in any imaginable shape and size. You are limited only by your budget and imagination. Concrete pools can also be made very deep. You can add steps, ledges or whatever features you want in your pool. But it will incur additional costs.
Fibreglass pools are manufactured from pre-existing moulds and there are limitations regarding its shape. But manufacturers offer a wide variety of shapes and sizes to suit every taste. They are transported over the road hence they have size limitations.
Fibreglass pools are available in sizes up to 16 feet (ca. 5 m) in width, 40 feet (12.19 m) in length and 8.5 feet depth. If you are looking for a family pool in a reasonable size then you will easily find the fibreglass pool suited to your needs. Fibreglass pools come pre-fitted with anti-slip texture steps and ledges at no extra cost. Manufacturers offer customisation options with colourful lights, tiles and finishes.
With the advances in technology, a lot of fibreglass manufacturers are offering superior grade products. These fibreglass pools are chemical resistant and most often last a lifetime. The tough core also copes well with various soil conditions and climatic alterations. They also offer you a wide choice of colours, shapes and finishes. If you install a superior quality fibreglass pool, you can enjoy your swim for a lifetime.
