Picking a new pool is a big choice. You want the right pool type for your yard, your budget, and your family.
Most homeowners pick between two main inground pool choices: a fiberglass or concrete pool. Both can look great. But they are built in very different ways.
This guide breaks down both pool types in plain English. We cover cost, upkeep, looks, and how long each type of pool lasts. By the end, you will know which pool fits your home best.
At Aquatic Services of Mohave County, we have built pools across Arizona since 1999. We proudly serve Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, Kingman, Parker, and Quartzsite.
Quick Comparison Table
Here is a side by side look at the two main inground pool options.
What Is a Fiberglass Pool?
A fiberglass pool is a one-piece pool shell. It is made in a factory and shipped to your home in one piece. A crane then lowers the pool shell into a hole in your yard.
The surface of a fiberglass pool is a smooth gelcoat. This finish resists algae and stains. Most fiberglass swimming pools install in just 2 to 4 weeks.
Top fiberglass pool manufacturers include San Juan Pools, Latham Fiberglass, Thursday Pools, and Leisure Pools. At Aquatic Services, we install pools from San Juan. They lead the pool industry in shell quality and warranty.
What Is a Concrete Pool?
A concrete pool is built on-site. Some people call it a gunite pool or shotcrete pool. Concrete pools are built by digging a hole, tying steel rebar, and spraying cement to form the pool shell. After the shell cures, the crew adds tile and plaster.
A gunite pool can be any shape or size you want. But these pools are built slowly. Most take 3 to 6 months from start to swim.
Pros and Cons of Fiberglass and Concrete Pools
Every pool type has strengths and trade-offs. Here they are side by side.
Fiberglass Pros
- Fast install, 2 to 4 weeks
- Low maintenance and low chemical use
- Smooth surface resists algae
- Lower lifetime cost
- Backed by factory warranty
- Fiberglass pools offer a finished look right out of the mold
Fiberglass Cons
- Custom shapes limited to the mold library
- Max width is about 16 feet (truck limit)
- Upfront cost is higher than a vinyl liner
Gunite Pros
- Any shape or size you want
- Great for very large or deep designs
- Strong build and custom look
- Concrete pools demand a fully custom build
- Pools can last decades with care
Gunite Cons
- Long build time, 3 to 6 months
- High maintenance cost over the years
- Porous nature of concrete feeds algae
- Replaster needed every 8 to 15 years
- Higher chemical use
Durability and Maintenance
Durability and maintenance are the two biggest long-term costs for any pool owner. Here is how both pool choices stack up.
Ease of Maintenance
Fiberglass pools typically need the least care. The smooth finish of fiberglass pools is non-porous. Algae have nowhere to cling. Fiberglass pools require less maintenance due to their smooth gelcoat, which keeps chemical use low. The surface of fiberglass pools stays clean with basic weekly work.
Concrete pools require more regular upkeep. The surface of a concrete pool is rough and porous. Algae grow easily in tiny pits. Owners must brush, shock, and balance water more often. Concrete pools need regular cleaning to stay looking great.
Vinyl liner pools fall in between. Vinyl pools require a new liner every 5 to 9 years.
Pool Chemistry
Fiberglass pools generally keep water chemistry stable. The gelcoat does not leach minerals into the water. Pool chemistry stays balanced for longer compared to concrete.
Concrete pools often need more acid, chlorine, and pH balancing. Concrete pools typically raise the pH over time. They can also stain from hard water.
Long-Term Durability
Concrete pools can last 30 years or more with regular care. Concrete pools provide a strong pool structure. Concrete pools offer long life but demand ongoing upkeep. Concrete pools tend to need resurfacing every 8 to 15 years, plus pool deck repairs over time.
Fiberglass pools tend to last 25 years or more without resurfacing. Most shells come with a lifetime structural warranty. The life of the pool is one reason many families choose a fiberglass pool over other types.
Pool Cost Breakdown
Money matters. Here is how these pools vs other options compare on cost.
Initial Cost and Upfront Cost
- Fiberglass pool: $50,000 to $100,000 installed
- Gunite pool: $60,000 to $150,000+ installed
- Vinyl liner pools: $35,000 to $65,000 installed
Fiberglass sits in the middle on upfront cost. Vinyl is the cheapest to start. A gunite pool has the highest initial cost.
Maintenance Cost
Your pool will cost you money every year. Here is a rough yearly budget:
- Fiberglass: $200 to $500 in chemicals and cleaning
- Concrete: $500 to $1,000 plus replaster savings
- Vinyl: $300 to $600 plus liner replacement
Total Cost Over 25 Years
Add up install, chemicals, repairs, and resurfacing. Fiberglass wins on lifetime spending. Compared to concrete pools, fiberglass pools may only need minor touch ups. Compared to concrete, the savings add up fast.
Shape and Size: Which Type of Pool Offers More?
A common question is: which pool gives more design freedom?
- Concrete pools are built on-site, so any shape works.
- Fiberglass pools are built in a mold, so you pick from set pool designs.
Top pool manufacturers offer many pool designs. San Juan alone has over 100 models. Pool choices include rectangle, kidney, L-shape, freeform, and pools with tanning ledges or built-in spas.
If you want a 50-foot Olympic-style pool, you will need a gunite pool. For most family backyards, a fiberglass pool fits great.
Why Fiberglass Fits the Mohave County Climate
The Arizona desert is hard on pools. Heat, UV, and hard water all take a toll.
In the pool world, fiberglass has clear wins in our climate:
- Less water loss. The non-porous shell holds water tight.
- Heat friendly. Gelcoat handles Arizona sun without fading fast.
- Hard water resistant. Smooth surfaces resist calcium scale.
- Faster install. Get swimming in weeks, not months.
That is why we chose to install pools made from fiberglass. We serve homes in Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, Kingman, Parker, and Quartzsite.
How to Choose a Fiberglass Pool for Your Family
Choosing a fiberglass build is the popular pick in our area. Choosing between a fiberglass or gunite pool comes down to your needs. Here are five questions to ask before picking a pool for your family:
- How fast do you want to swim? Fiberglass wins on speed.
- What is your budget? Look at lifetime spending, not just upfront cost.
- How much care do you want? Fiberglass offers less maintenance.
- Do you want a custom shape? If yes, a gunite pool may fit better.
- How long will you stay in the home? Fiberglass boosts resale value fast.
Fiberglass pools may fit most yards in our area. But every home is different, and your pool might have unique site needs.
Concrete or Fiberglass Pool: Our Take
Both options can be the best pool for the right home. But for most Mohave County families, fiberglass is the smart pick.
Here is why we choose a fiberglass pool for most clients:
- Faster install in Arizona's short build season
- Lower chemical use in our hot climate
- Smooth surface holds up to hard water
- Lower lifetime upkeep
- Factory warranty from San Juan Pools
Unlike concrete pools, fiberglass gives you a finished pool in weeks. Unlike concrete, fiberglass does not need replaster every decade. The pool experience feels cleaner and easier from day one.
Fiberglass or Gunite Pool FAQ
Which lasts longer, fiberglass or gunite?
Both can last 25 years or more. Gunite lasts longer with regular replastering. Fiberglass lasts a long time without resurfacing.
Is fiberglass or concrete better for hot climates?
Fiberglass is often better for hot, dry climates like Mohave County. The smooth surface resists algae and hard water stains.
Can fiberglass pools look as good as concrete?
Yes. New pool designs include tanning ledges, spas, waterfalls, and custom tile. You can get a high-end look.
Do fiberglass pools add value to my home?
Yes. Speed of install and low upkeep both boost resale value. A new pool can add real curb appeal.
How is fiberglass different from vinyl?
Fiberglass and vinyl both have smooth surfaces. But vinyl liners tear and fade. A fiberglass shell is much more durable than a vinyl liner pool.
Are both pool types good for families?
Yes. Both are solid picks. Fiberglass pools offer faster swim time and lower upkeep. A gunite pool gives you full custom design freedom.
Ready to Build Your Dream Pool?
Still unsure which pool fits your home best? We can help.
Aquatic Services of Mohave County has served homeowners since 1999. Our CPO-certified team handles every step, from first call to final walkthrough. We are an authorized San Juan Fiberglass Pools dealer.
Call us today at (928) 486-9034 or request a free quote online.
We serve Lake Havasu City, Bullhead City, Kingman, Parker, Quartzsite, and all nearby towns within 50 miles.
