Pros and Cons of Fibreglass Pools

Published On March 14, 2025

Wondering what are the real pros and cons of fiberglass pools? Fiberglass pools come with real advantages — fast installation, almost no maintenance, and they hold up for years with a clean, polished look. But there’s always a trade-off. You’ll get less flexibility in design (you’re picking from pre-made shapes) and a higher initial price tag compared to some other options.

At Plunge Pools Sunshine Coast, we don’t just install pools—we design custom backyard escapes built for your home. From the first consultation to the final steps, we handle everything, making the process stress-free and tailored to your space, budget, and lifestyle.

In this article, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of fibreglass pools — no fluff, no filler — just the essentials. By the end, you’ll know if fibreglass fits your life or if you need to look at something else.

Table of Contents

What is a Fibreglass Pool?

Before we break down all the pros and cons of fibreglass, you need to know what a fibreglass pool actually is.

A fibreglass pool is a one-piece swimming pool shell built in a factory using composite materials — layers of fibreglass, polyvinyl chloride, and resin fused together under controlled pressure. The result? A durable, flexible swimming pool structure ready to be installed in your space without weeks of on-site work.

It’s shipped in one piece, lowered into the earth, and hooked up to the pump — ready to go. You get options — different shapes, sizes, and colours to match your deck (ship), landscape, or roof aesthetics. The inside? Coated with a gelcoat layer that gives the swimming pool its colour, shine, and resistance to algae. That gelcoat surface matters — it helps prevent algae growth, makes cleaning easier, and keeps your pool clean for years.

Because every fibreglass pool is made in a mold, you get smooth, rounded stairs and edges — not just for looks, but for safety and comfort. No rough plaster. No scraped feet. Kids, seniors, and even pets — everyone’s safer.

A well-manufactured fibreglass swimming pool is simple, smart, and built for every homeowner who wants more swimming and less work. Now you know why.

Pros of Fibreglass Pools – Benefits That Make Them Stand Out

Looking to install a new pool on the Sunshine Coast? You’ll see fibreglass pools pop up everywhere — and for good reason. They’re the type of pool homeowners and businesses choose when they want fast installs, low stress (mechanics), and long-term investment value. Here’s why:

1. Faster Installation

Speed matters. Concrete pools take weeks (sometimes months). Vinyl pools aren’t much faster. fibreglass pools? Days. The pool shell shows up ready-to-go. We dig the hole, drop it in, connect the pump, and balance the water alkalinity — done. Less disruption. Faster swims. More life lived in your swimming pool, less time watching it get built.

2. Low Maintenance

If you dislike pool chores, fiberglass pools win. The gelcoat on a fibreglass pool is non-porous, meaning algae has fewer places to cling. Combine that with a smooth surface, and chemical substances like chlorine work better with less scrubbing. Less acid wash, fewer repairs, and lower maintenance costs over the years.

3. Durability and Long Lifespan

A high-quality fibreglass pool can last 30 to 50 years — or longer. Compared to concrete pools, which crack, or vinyl liner pools, which need liners replaced every 7-10 years, fiberglass pools are much more durable. With proper pool sanitation and balanced water chemistry, these pools will also resist corrosion from saltwater systems and seawater spray in coastal homes.

4. Lower Lifetime Costs

Yes, the list price for a fibreglass pool can be higher than a vinyl liner pool, but the money in the long run? That’s where fibreglass pools crush it. Concrete or vinyl pools need acid washes, resurfacing, and constant balancing chemicals. A fibreglass pool doesn’t require all that. Fewer chemical substances, fewer repairs — it saves thousands of dollars over its lifetime.

5. Smooth, Comfortable Surface

Concrete pools can tear up feet. Vinyl liner pools wrinkle and trap debris. The surface of a high-quality fibreglass pool is smooth, soft, and algae-resistant also. Whether you’ve got kids cannonballing, seniors wading in, or pets paddling around, everyone’s comfortable and safe.

6. Compatible with Saltwater Systems

Running asaltwater pool? Fiberglass pools thrive in seawater and salt systems. The non-porous gelcoat surface resists corrosion, even when exposed to salt over decades. Whether you’re near the reef or just prefer saltwater pool systems, fibreglass pools come ready for it.

7. Aesthetic Appeal and Modern Finishes

The range of fibreglass pool designs is bigger than ever. Forget plain white shells. Barrier Reef Pools and other brands offer new patterns, colours, and finishes — from stone washing to sleek, modern spa-style designs. Whether you want a deep-end pool for laps or a custom shape for a spa-inspired oasis, there’s a wide range of fibreglass pool options to match your space.

8. Energy Efficiency – Better Heat Retention

fibreglass pools hold heat better than concrete pools or vinyl liner pools. The composite material naturally holds heat, reducing the energy needed to keep your water warm. That means lower heating bills and more comfortable swims, even when the weather cools.

9. Environmentally Friendly Option

Fewer chemical substances, less energy use, and longer lifespan mean fibreglass pools are one of the most eco-friendly types of swimming pools available. If protecting the earth, the reef, and your money matters to you, fiberglass pools come out on top.

10. Adds Resale Value to Your Home

On the Sunshine Coast, a perfect pool boosts property value — but not all pool types are created equal. A well-manufactured fibreglass swimming pool signals low maintenance costs, high durability, and modern design — all things that make your property stand out in a crowded market. Whether you keep it forever or cash out, a fibreglass pool would boost your investment.

Cons of FibreglassPools – Potential Downsides to Consider

Fiberglass pools check a lot of boxes — but they aren’t perfect. Knowing the downsides upfront means no surprises later. Here’s what you need to factor in:

1. Limited Design Flexibility

Fibreglass pools come in molds — you pick from what’s available. Want some crazy custom shape with wild curves, a waterfall, or a sunken lounge? Not happening with fibreglass. If you want full creative freedom, concrete’s your move. Fibreglass gives options — just not infinite options.

2. Maximum Width Restrictions

Fibreglass pools come in set sizes. Why? Because they’re built to be delivered, not constructed on-site. But that doesn’t mean limited options. You get small plunge pools, spas, extra-large family pools, even lap pools—ready to drop into place. No guesswork. No surprises. Just a pool that fits. Check out the full range here: fibreglass pool collection for more details.

3. Higher Upfront Cost

Fibreglass is cheaper than concrete — but more expensive upfront than vinyl. If you’re playing the short-term, lowest-cost game, vinyl looks better. But long-term? Fibreglass wins. Fewer repairs, less maintenance, no liner replacements.
Pay now or pay later — your call.

4. Colour Matching Challenges with Repairs

Fibreglass is tough — but nothing’s indestructible. If you need a repair, matching the original gel coat colour perfectly can be tricky. Most people won’t notice. But if you’re the type who spots every little flaw? This might bug you. Work with a pool builder who actually knows how to match finishes — or accept that your pool might earn a battle scar or two.

5. Osmotic Blisters – Rare but Possible Issue

Blisters under the gel coat sound scary — and they can happen. Moisture sneaks in, bubbles form, and you’ve got a cosmetic issue. The good news? It’s rare. Manufacturing has come a long way.
Hire the right builder (who doesn’t cut corners), and your odds of this happening drop even further.

6. Requires Professional Installation

Want to DIY your pool install? Not happening with fiberglass. The shell has to be lowered perfectly, leveled precisely, and backfilled correctly. Screw it up, and you’re looking at cracks, shifts, or long-term structural issues. This is a hire-a-pro job — full stop. The upside? On the Sunshine Coast, there’s no shortage of pros who know exactly how to handle fiberglass installs. Hire smart.

7. Surface Degradation Over Time

Fibreglass holds up for decades — but the gel coat isn’t immortal. Too much chlorine. Too much sun. Poor water chemistry. Over time, that smooth finish can fade, dull, or wear down. Stay on top of regular maintenance and water balance, and you push this way down the road. Ignore it? You’ll be looking at resurfacing.

8. Vulnerable to Improper Backfill or Groundwater Pressure

Fibreglass pools are lightweight, which is great for transport — but it also means they can shift if the backfill or drainage isn’t handled right. Got high groundwater or bad drainage? You need a pro who understands local soil and water conditions — or you could end up with a pool that moves, cracks, or even floats. This is why working with locals who know Sunshine Coast soil isn’t optional — it’s critical.

Is a Fibreglass Pool Right for You? Key Factors to Consider Before Buying

Deciding if fibreglass is the right move for your Sunshine Coast plunge pool comes down to a few hard truths — and they’re all tied to how you think about money, time, and hassle.

Budget: Got the cash to invest upfront, or do you just want the cheapest pool you can slap in the ground? Fiberglass isn’t the bargain-bin option — but it saves you money over time with lower maintenance and fewer repairs. Pay more now, save way more later.
Design Needs: Happy choosing from a catalog of pre-made shapes, or do you want to design something no one’s ever seen before? Fibreglass gives you options — but not infinite freedom. If you need a one-of-a-kind showpiece, concrete’s your move.
Installation Timeline: Want to be swimming in weeks, not months? Fibreglass is hands down the fastest way to get a pool in your yard. If you’re dreaming of floating by summer, this is the shortcut.
Maintenance Preferences: Want to spend weekends in the pool, not cleaning it? Fibreglass is low-maintenance by design — fewer chemicals, easier cleaning, less stress. If your goal is maximum enjoyment, minimum hassle, fibreglass plays right into that.
Local Expertise: Don’t just buy a pool — buy a team that knows how to install it right. Specialists like Plunge Pools Sunshine Coast don’t just drop it in and leave. They handle the install, the fencing, and all the legal hoops, so you don’t get burned by bad installs or missed permits.

Bottom line? Stack up these factors, and you’ll know if fibreglass fits your lifestyle, your property, and your sanity — or if you’re better off exploring something else.

Conclusion

Knowing both sides of the coin — the pros AND the cons — is what separates smart buyers from people who end up with regrets. Fibreglass pools win big on durability, crazy fast installs, and low-maintenance living. For most Sunshine Coast homeowners, those benefits blow the downsides out of the water, making fiberglass one of the smartest long-term investments you can drop in your backyard.

At Plunge Pools Sunshine Coast, we don’t just install pools — we build complete outdoor solutions. Pool, landscaping— everything you need to turn your backyard into your personal retreat. And we do it faster and better than anyone else.

Call us today and get expert advice, pro installation, and solutions built to fit your property, your budget, and your vision.

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