Are Fiberglass Pools Good in Florida?

A swimming pool is a great way to stay cool in Florida, where it’s hot most of the year. When I started researching pool materials, I was surprised to learn about the different options. One of them is fiberglass pools. But, are fiberglass pools good in Florida?

Fiberglass pools can be a good option for folks in Florida, but they might not always be the best. They’re easy to take care of, and you can build them even if the water table is high. However, the topcoat on the pool can fade and peel in strong sunlight.

Before you decide to get a fiberglass swimming pool for your Florida home, you might have some questions. Like, how much do these pools cost? What sizes are available? And how long can you expect a fiberglass pool to last? Keep reading to get answers to these and other questions!

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The Advantages and Disadvantages of Fiberglass Pools in Florida

Let’s begin by looking at the advantages and disadvantages of having a fiberglass pool in your Florida home. This information might help you decide whether a fiberglass swimming pool is the right choice for you, depending on how much these factors matter to you.

Advantages of Fiberglass Pools

Let’s look at the good things about having a fiberglass swimming pool:

Quick Installation: Feeling the Florida heat? Building a concrete gunite pool can take up to eight weeks – that’s a lot of time! In contrast, a fiberglass pool can be installed in just two to four weeks. You could have a new pool in a month.
Easy Maintenance: Pool upkeep is something you can’t escape, but fiberglass pools are simpler to take care of.
Durability: Swimming pools, especially in-ground ones, can be quite pricey. So, you’ll want your Florida pool to last a long time. We’ll talk more about how long fiberglass pools last later, but they are pretty tough.
Above or In-Ground Options: You can pick whether you want an above-ground or an in-ground fiberglass swimming pool. If your area has a high water table, fiberglass is still an option.
Nonporous Material: Fiberglass doesn’t have tiny holes, so it doesn’t let in things like algae. This means less green pool and less time spent on maintenance each year.

Disadvantages of Fiberglass Pool

Florida residents should be aware of the downsides of fiberglass pools

Cracking: Fiberglass pools can sometimes develop small cracks, known as spider cracks. These cracks can appear even though manufacturers use a topcoat. They don’t render the pool unusable but can be a bit of a hassle.
Peeling: Over time, the Florida sun can cause the topcoat of your fiberglass pool to peel off. When this happens, you’ll have to shell out for costly repairs.
Warping: When a fiberglass pool is installed, it comes as a single unit, and this piece may warp or bend during backfilling. This warping can make your pool look unattractive at best and, at worst, pose a threat to its structural integrity.
Water Quality Issues: Keeping your pool’s water quality in check is essential. If the pH is too high, the gel topcoat can wear down faster.

Being aware of these potential drawbacks is important before you decide on a fiberglass pool in Florida.

How Long Do Fiberglass Pools Last in Florida?

The average lifespan of a fiberglass pool can range from 20 to 50 years, depending on several factors. The better the quality, the longer it will last. So, it’s important to choose a reputable pool contractor when getting your fiberglass pool, as this can significantly impact its durability.

Fiberglass pools come in single prefabricated pieces, as we mentioned earlier. The pool contractor will put this piece directly into the excavation area. After backfilling, your pool will be ready to use.

Proper backfilling is crucial because if it’s not done with materials like pea gravel or sand, the fiberglass pool won’t be adequately supported. This can lead to problems like collapsed walls or issues with the pool’s basic functions, such as water quality and circulation.

Even if you install your fiberglass pool perfectly, you’ll still need to maintain it for many years. In sunny Florida, the topcoat of your pool can wear out faster. On average, a fiberglass pool owner may wait up to 20 years before needing to refinish their pool. In some cases, you might need to do it sooner. The sun not only fades the pool’s colors but also wears down the topcoat, making refinishing necessary.

How to Make Your Fiberglass Pool Last Longer in Florida

You can shield your pool from the Florida sun to prevent damage. Here’s our advice.

1. Keep Your Fiberglass Pool Full

Water reflects sunlight, and this can help counteract the sun fading that’s bound to happen with fiberglass. If your pool is empty, it’ll fade even faster. The gel coat will wear out more quickly as well.

2. Use Your Pool Filter Daily

It’s a good idea to run water through your pool’s filter regularly, especially if the water has things that can harm the fiberglass. Run the filter every day, even when the pool isn’t in use. Keeping your pool clean will make it better.

3. How to Test and Maintain Pool Chemicals

As we mentioned earlier, a high pH can make the topcoat wear out too soon. Check your pool’s water regularly and adjust the chemicals if needed.

4. Cover Your Pool When Not in Use

This is a great way to shield your fiberglass, as long as you don’t mind covering your pool when you’re not using it. The covers should block out the sun by being UV resistant.

5. Only Use Pool Chemicals

Fiberglass can react to changes in the pool water’s chemistry. So, only use chemicals that are meant for swimming pools.

Final Thoughts – Are Fiberglass Pools Good in Florida?

Fiberglass pools are a good pick for folks in Florida. They’re resistant to algae, have a smooth feel, and are durable. However, the topcoat on a fiberglass pool can peel over time, especially when it’s exposed to the sun. You should be ready to replace it every few years.

Concrete pools are also a good choice for pool construction in Florida. They tend to look better and last longer because the sun doesn’t cause as much damage.

If you’re thinking about getting a fiberglass pool, it’s a smart idea to talk to experts who know what works best in Florida. Companies like Florida Pool Patio are really good at making pools that look great and last a long time, perfect for our sunny state. Their know-how and dedication to quality can make sure your pool stays fun for many years. Call us now!