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If you’re installing a pool, the variety of options might overwhelm you. From materials to water features to colors to chemicals, you have a lot of decisions to make. Choosing a material for your pool doesn’t have to be so complicated. Here, we shine a light on the details of fiberglass and why it might work best for your new pool.
Strength
Fiberglass, made of millions of interwoven glass threads covered in polyester resin, is the choice material for high-performance products like hot tubs, water tanks, surfboards, boats, multi-million dollar yachts, airplanes, and even helicopters and rockets. It’s stronger than many metals, is non-conductive, and is resistant to most chemicals. This high-quality material is as smooth as it is durable—“Customers have told us that due to its smooth texture, fiberglass pools are safer for their children because the smooth surface prevents scrapes and scratches,” says Rick Black, product director for Fiberglass pools at Latham Pool Products, Inc.
Quick Install
Fiberglass pools come to your property in one piece, making installation simple. A concrete pool, on the other hand, requires a steel framework that’s then covered by a mixture of sand, cement, and plaster. Concrete pools can take three to six months to install, while fiberglass pools, in one ready-to-install piece, can be good to go in only two to three weeks.
Low Maintenance
“Fiberglass pools are virtually maintenance free,” says Black. Even in various climates, fiberglass maintains its durability, withstanding freeze-thaw cycles and extreme heat. Fiberglass pools do cost more than concrete or vinyl pools upfront, but concrete requires resurfacing every ten to fifteen years, and vinyl liners must be replaced every six to twelve years. You’ll incur practically no upkeep costs of a fiberglass pool over its lifetime, especially because it’s easy to clean yourself. “And, Latham fiberglass pools are backed by a lifetime warranty covering both the surface and the structure,” adds Black.
Less Pool Chemicals
The gelcoat surface of a fiberglass pool shell does not react with the water like the surface of a concrete pool does. Because of this, the fiberglass pool will not affect the pH of the pool water, and requires less chemicals like chlorine to keep it clean. And if you’re looking to go the saltwater pool route, which is gentler on the skin, eyes, and bathing suits, and requires less maintenance, a fiberglass pool might be the perfect fit. Its durable yet smooth surface won’t corrode or roughen with salt.
Customization
Over the years, fiberglass pools have gotten a reputation as uncustomizable. “With 56 pool shapes and twelve colors to choose from,” says Black, “plus additional features like fountains, lighting, spas, and even mosaic tiles, homeowners can customize a pool to fit their specific style and backyard.”
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Each pool material has its own pros and cons that you should carefully weigh before you decide what will work best for your pool. Fiberglass, however, makes a solid case for itself. “It’s worth the investment due to the strength of the pool, coupled with the low maintenance costs, so you’ll pay a little more money now in price to save a lot of money in future costs.” says Black. To browse Latham’s complete portfolio of pools, visit lathampool.com.
