Fibreglass vs Concrete
Choosing between a fibreglass and concrete pool comes down to your home, your site, your design preferences and the way you want to use your pool. We build both, so we can help you understand the differences and choose an option that suits your project.
Which pool is right for you?Both options can create a beautiful, functional pool. The main differences come down to how the pool is made, how much you can customise it, and what suits your property and project.
Fibreglass vs Concrete at a Glance❋ Fibreglass❋ Concrete❋ CustomisationChoose from a range of pre-designed shapes and sizes
❋ Pool designDesigned and built specifically for your site
Customisation within the manufacturer's available designs and options
❋ InstallationFactory-made shell installed on site
Constructed on site through multiple stages
Extensive flexibility with shape, size, depth and features
❋ FeaturesSteps, benches and other features available depending on the chosen shell
❋ Surface & finishesFactory-applied interior finish
Tiles and other selected finishes can be applied during construction
Features can be incorporated into the custom design
❋ Installation timeframeGenerally a more streamlined installation process
Generally a longer construction process
❋ Site accessShell delivery and crane/access requirements need to be considered
❋ MaintenanceSmooth, non-porous surface can make everyday cleaning straightforward
❋ Best suited toHomeowners wanting a streamlined pool installation with a proven range of designs
Homeowners wanting a highly customised pool designed around their property
Maintenance depends on the selected surface, finishes and equipment
Construction access and site conditions need to be considered
The biggest difference between fibreglass and concrete is the way the pool is designed and constructed. Fibreglass pools are selected from a range of manufactured designs, while concrete pools are built specifically around your site and design.Design & Customisation
Fibreglass PoolsFibreglass gives you a wide range of proven shapes, sizes and layouts to choose from. You can select a shell that suits your backyard and then personalise the surrounding finishes, landscaping, fencing and equipment to create your finished pool area.
Concrete PoolsConcrete gives you greater freedom to create a pool around your individual space. Shape, size, depth, steps, benches, sun shelves, spas, water features and finishes can all be considered as part of the overall design.
Installation & Construction
Fibreglass and concrete pools are installed in very different ways. Understanding how each is constructed can help you work out which approach suits your property, access and project.Fibreglass PoolsA fibreglass pool is manufactured off-site as a complete shell and transported to your property. Once the excavation and site preparation are complete, the shell is positioned, levelled and connected to the pool's plumbing and equipment. The surrounding works and finishing can then be completed.
Concrete PoolsA concrete pool is constructed on your property through a series of stages. After excavation and structural preparation, the pool is formed and reinforced before concrete is applied. Once the shell has cured, it is prepared for the waterproofing and interior finishing stages, including tiling, coping and other selected finishes.
Time, Maintenance &
Practical Considerations
The day-to-day experience of owning a pool can also differ between fibreglass and concrete. Installation time, surface care and the specifics of your site are all worth considering when choosing between the two.Because the pool shell is manufactured off-site, the installation process can be more streamlined once the site is prepared. The overall timeframe still depends on excavation, access, approvals and the surrounding works.
Fibreglass PoolsInstallation Time
Concrete pools are constructed on site through multiple stages, including excavation, structural work, concrete construction, curing and finishing. This generally means a longer construction process.
Concrete PoolsMaintenance
The smooth, non-porous surface can make everyday cleaning straightforward. Like any pool, regular water testing, filtration, cleaning and equipment maintenance are still required.
Fibreglass PoolsConcrete PoolsConcrete pools also require regular water care, filtration and cleaning. Maintenance can vary depending on the interior finish selected, as well as water chemistry, equipment and how the pool is used.
Site Access & Construction
Access needs to be considered carefully because the finished shell needs to be transported to the property and positioned into the excavation.
Fibreglass PoolsConcrete PoolsConcrete pools are constructed on site, which can provide flexibility for properties where a manufactured shell may be difficult to access. Excavation and construction access are still important considerations.
Long-Term Considerations
The long-term upkeep of any pool depends on factors including water chemistry, filtration equipment, cleaning, usage and the selected finishes. The right choice is ultimately about finding an option that suits your property and how you want to use your pool.
Fibreglass & Concrete Pools
Which Pool Suits Your Project?
Both fibreglass and concrete pools can create an incredible backyard. The right option depends on your property, your design preferences and what matters most to you.
Still not sure which option is right for your project?
We're happy to talk through your site, ideas and priorities and help you understand the options available.
Frequently Asked Questions-
It comes down to your site, preferred design, installation approach and how much customisation you want. We can talk through both options and help you understand what suits your project.
-
Generally, yes. A fibreglass shell is manufactured off-site, allowing for a more streamlined installation. Concrete pools are constructed on site through multiple stages.
-
Yes. While the shell itself is selected from available designs, you can customise many aspects of the finished pool area, including landscaping, coping, fencing, equipment and other features.
-
Yes. Concrete pools offer greater flexibility when it comes to shape, size, depth, steps, benches, sun shelves, spas, water features and finishes.
-
The smooth, non-porous surface of fibreglass can make everyday cleaning straightforward. Both fibreglass and concrete pools still require regular water care, filtration and equipment maintenance.
-
Yes. Simpools builds both fibreglass and concrete pools across the Sunshine Coast.