“I’m considering a new pool installation for my Melbourne home this summer, which pool is better – A fibreglass pool or a vinyl pool?”

There are a number of factors to contemplate when selecting the material of your new pool. Are you seeking an affordable option, or are you looking for something that requires a little less work? Do you want a fast installation or a custom pool design?

We have already discussed the differences between concrete pools and fibreglass pools, but today we have listed some of the most important aspects to consider when comparing a fibreglass pool with a vinyl pool.

Considerations include:

• Aesthetics: What do you want your pool to look like?
• Installation times: When do you want your pool swim ready?
• Cost: What is your budget?
• Maintenance: How much effort do you want to put in to keep your pool healthy, safe and clean?

Aesthetics

Both fibreglass pools and vinyl pools consist of a smooth top layer which can look sleek and beautiful in the back yard. Fibreglass pools consist of an interior layer of gel-coat, whereas the vinyl is a smooth surface to begin with.

Fibreglass pools typically can run up to 5 metres wide, 12 metres long and 2.5 metres deep at maximum.

There are hundreds of different pool design to choose from, but you are limited to pre-made fibreglass shells. Fibreglass pools can also accommodate accessories and water features such as lights, tiles, jets and bench seats which can really enhance your pool’s personality and functionality.

As vinyl is applied after the ground has been dug out, vinyl pools are completely customisable. Any design that you can dream up is able to be produced with vinyl, as the shape, size, depth and width is completely your choice.

Although vinyl pools can look great to begin with, the material is not as durable as fibreglass, so it can wear down and fade over time, unlike fibreglass pools where the colour can last a lifetime.

Installation times

Fibreglass pools can be installed relatively quickly. In fact, they can be installed and ready to use within just one week, as they are designed and produced in a facility rather than in the home. After the excavation process, the fibreglass pool shells are simply transported to the backyard and placed into the hole.

With a vinyl pool, the process can take anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks as the entire process is carried out in the backyard.

Cost

The cost of your pool will depend on the location, the access to your property and the size of the new pool, but vinyl pools tend to be the cheapest option when installing a new pool. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the maintenance required for a vinyl pool over time may end up costing you more than it would to originally install a fibreglass pool.

Maintenance

Both fibreglass pools and vinyl pools must have the chemicals tested regularly, otherwise they may become un-balanced. Vinyl liners should be replaced every 5-9 years. This can be done on your own, but professional assistance may be required to perfectly align every edge and corner.

Wrinkles can also appear in the liner over time which will not affect the structural integrity of the pool, but can take some time and effort to smooth out. Small dents may also appear in the vinyl liner, which can be caused by rocks and other small objects around the pool. If the vinyl is damaged, the pool must be drained in order to repair it.

Fibreglass on the other hand requires much less maintenance due to the durability and design of the pool shell.

Summary

For those who are seeking an affordable yet customisable option for their pool construction, you may want to consider a vinyl pool. These pools can be designed in any fashion, but may require a significant amount of maintenance to keep the pool in good condition.

If you’re looking for a more durable option with less maintenance, then a fibreglass pool could be for you. They are less hassle in the long run, and can be installed very quickly in comparison to a vinyl pool. There are many different types of fibreglass shells available, meaning you are bound to find a shape that suits your needs.

For more information regarding pool construction, or if you’re interested in a free site visit to discuss a new fibreglass pool build in Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula or the surrounding suburbs, please contact our professional fibreglass pool builders here.

Fibreglass Pool Melbourne