Some of the most common include that this pool type floats or pops up, that they look cheap, that they only work in warm climates, that they are are lot more expensive than vinyl liner pools, and that they cannot be customized. Unfortunately, many people shy away from fiberglass pools because they believe these myths.
The fiberglass type is so durable and flexible that it can bear immense pressure. Naturally, even after carrying so much water weight, the fiber does not show signs of crack. However, if you do not maintain the pool properly, there is barely a chance of your pool cracking.
Fibreglass pools naturally insulate, and heat quicker compared to concrete pools, saving money on energy. If you purchase a high-quality fibreglass pool, you can expect them to last for more than 30 years. Unlike vinyl and concrete, they don't need replacing or resurfacing.
One main advantage of fiberglass swimming pools is their high durability -- inside and out. Both the structure and the surface of a high-quality fiberglass pool can last a long time, provided you take good care of it.
Your Fiberglass Pool: Much more than a shell holding water
Not only does it look great, but it's going to be a little easier to vacuum and maintain a fiberglass pool. It's not maintenance-free, but it is the lowest maintenance and lowest maintenance cost pool option.
The typical fiberglass pool has a deep end of five and one-half feet, but pool depth varies by design. Because many pool-goers spend most of their time in areas of the pool where they can stand with their head above the water, having too deep of a deep end could be perceived as wasted space for some.
Tremendous flexibility. Surprising for a substance that is so strong, fiberglass is very flexible compared to other pool materials. This means that while the soil around a pool may expand, contract, and move as it freezes and thaws, a fiberglass pool can handle the changing pressure without cracking.
The water level should be below the skimmer basket to prevent the skimmer basket from freezing and breaking. Drain all equipment to prevent any water within from freezing, expanding, and causing damage. Clear the water from the pool lines using a blower.
The good news is that saltwater systems are perfect for fiberglass pools. What's more, since salt is a gentler type of water cleanser, there is less risk of skin irritation. Saltwater systems have been a top choice for fiberglass pool owners for years.
Fiberglass pools are easier to maintain than gunite pools because they are smooth and non-porous. This means that they resist algae growth and require fewer chemicals than gunite pools. Gunite pools are more difficult to maintain because they are porous, so they require more chemicals to keep the water clean.
Due to ground pressure, most fiberglass pools can experience damage when drained without taking proper measures. This could include buckling, bulging or cracking in the walls or floor.
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! Unfortunately, every year we get phone calls from homeowners who have emptied the pool for one reason or another and it's a big NO-NO!
Unlike concrete pools, which have grooves and lines that algae can cling to, grow on, and make pool maintenance a mess, the fiberglass gel coat surface is smooth and inhibits algae growth.
Vinyl liner pools are generally the cheapest inground pools with regard to upfront costs; however, their costs can increase significantly based on a number of factors. A ballpark figure on the lower end for an inground 12' x 24' vinyl liner pool with installation is around $42,000.
With a gunite pool, waterline tile is required to avoid a waterline staining, and tile is certainly not an option with an inground vinyl liner pool. Only inground fiberglass pools give you the choice of going with a waterline tile or leaving the pool shell exposed above the waterline.
Although pools require maintenance, draining them every year or even every month isn't necessary. Most pool professionals suggest draining in-ground pools every five to seven years. Depending on a pool's condition, this may vary.
To keep your pool water crystal clear it's best to shock your pool once a week rather than waiting for the water to turn. This will ensure your pool's water chemistry balance is maintained at optimal levels.
The great thing about fibreglass pools is they retain the heat for far longer than concrete pools and are generally heat up quicker too!
In fact, they are caused by osmosis, a reaction that occurs when the gel within your fiberglass weakens and combines with water that seeps through its now exposed pores. Over time, this water will attempt to break through your pool's surface and form these irregularities in your swimming pool.
Hydrostatic Pressure
If the water level in the ground surrounding the pool rises too high, it can create a pressure imbalance that causes the pool to pop out of the ground. This is related to ground water and is more likely to happen in areas with high water tables or heavy rainfall.
As such, we want to simply provide a few coping options for fiberglass pools. No matter what type of coping you choose, it is imperative every fiberglass pool have concrete poured all the way around the outer edge of the pool.
A pool pop-up occurs when a pool “floats” out of the ground because of the hydrostatic pressure of ground water seeping into the pool excavation under the pool shell.
If you are a swimming enthusiast you will love our Kingsland fiberglass pool. The stunning 8′ deep Kingsland is the perfect size for swim lovers of all kinds and will provide enjoyment for all ages!