Luckily, heating is not only an option for fiberglass pools, it's actually a wonderful idea for them. Fiberglass pools are both the easiest type of pool to heat and the least expensive.
The cons associated with fiberglass pools are primarily related to cost and installation issues. Contrary to popular belief, fiberglass pools aren't cheaper than traditional options like concrete (we'll provide more details in the “Costs” section later on).
These heaters burn natural fuel to heat the water. They do require hookup to a fuel source as well as electricity to operate. They typically cost $3,000–$4,000 initially. On top of that, gas and electrical hookup often cost at least $1,000.
Many people wonder if their fiberglass pools are strong enough to withstand the extremes of winter weather. The answer is a resounding “Yes!” Cold temperatures are not a problem for fiberglass pools, so long as you properly care for them.
Most fiberglass pools are known to last 25-30 years, but we take that to the next level. Our manufacturer, Narellan Pools, makes the best fiberglass pools around. Their unique fiberglass formula results in a pool that can last as long as 50 years! Plus, these pools are notoriously easy to maintain.
Fiberglass swimming pools are very compatible with salt water systems. If you are using a vinyl liner pool, you must be careful as those pools tend to have metal parts or connections which salt will eat through and corrode.
While they are easier to install, fiberglass pools are nowhere near as durable as a gunite inground pool. The inside surface of this type pool is a gel coat on which the fiberglass has been laminated. The walls of the pool are only ½ to ⅜ inch thick compared to the 8 to 10 inch thickness of a gunite pool.
If you are looking to install a fiberglass pool for the lowest time, both the fall and winter are the best times to achieve this. Most people want a pool installed in the spring or early summer months so they can use it right away and receive fast gratification.
As the water freezes, it expands and can start pushing against the skimmer and tiles of your pool causing them to potentially chip, break or fall off completely. It is important to keep water flowing as long as possible to avoid potential damage caused by ice.
Fiberglass pools are durable
Both the structure and the surface of a high-quality fiberglass pool can last as long as you want them to, provided you take good care of it. A well-made fiberglass pool can last at least 50 years, with less maintenance required to keep it useful and enjoyable decade after decade.
Electrical. Many pool owners choose electrical heating for heating a fiberglass pool. This type of system has a heating element incorporated into the pool pump. Electrical heating systems are simple to put in and to run, but the costs could add up on your electric bill.
Fibreglass pools resist algae growth and require less maintenance and chemicals due to their smooth surface. The smooth surface also resists scratching and damaging the skin. Fibreglass has good insulating properties, making it easier and less expensive to heat than concrete pools.
Fiberglass pools can craze or check crack from imprecise manufacturing or when the surface is not fully supported, like under the steps or areas where the backfill is eroded. Gelcoat can also crack during transport and installation if it gets bumped around too much.
Inground swimming pool LED lights will add a truly breathtaking nighttime appeal to your pool. Providing a luminous setting for impromptu get-togethers and evening swims, inground pool LED lights impart an enchanting ambiance to any style of pool.
On fibreglass pools, waterline tiles give the illusion that the pool is constructed from concrete, as tiles are synonymous with concrete pools. Additionally, they protect the gel coat from the sun's rays. Glass mosaics have gained popularity over the past 10 years for swimming pools, spas and water features.
While there are many myths about fiberglass pools, the one thing you should NEVER EVER do is DRAIN your fiberglass pool without professional help. Let me say that again, NEVER drain your fiberglass pool for any reason. In fact, we recommend NEVER letting the water level drop more than 2-3 inches below the skimmer!
In fact, compared to other kinds of pools, fiberglass is very resilient to changes in pressure in and around it. It also doesn't contract or expand much itself due to changes in the temperature around it. So a cold and rainy climate isn't an issue.
Yes, they can freeze solid. If temperatures reach below zero, swimming pools that are not circulating can freeze solid within a few days. If those low temperatures continue for several days, the ice sheet can increase in thickness by up to ¼” per day.
Lower cost – depending on your preference for shape and size, fiberglass pools inclusive of equipment can range from $55k-$70k. This is often a lower cost option compared with a custom gunite pool.
One of the biggest gripes that we see have to do with the slippery surface of a fiberglass pool. The fact is, this material can be so slick that pool users can actually slip and fall. This can be a real problem for pool steps, where a slip-and-fall accident can be dangerous.