Why the Right Pool Choice Matters
A pool is more than a luxury feature—it’s an investment in your home, lifestyle, and family enjoyment. Choosing the right type ensures you get the balance between aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and budget. Making the wrong choice can result in higher costs, more maintenance, and a pool that doesn’t meet your needs.
Why Fibreglass Pools Are a Popular Choice
Concrete pools are a popular choice on the Gold Coast because they offer ultimate flexibility and longevity.
Custom Designs
One of the main advantages of concrete pools is the ability to create custom shapes, sizes, and depths. Homeowners can design infinity edges, curved layouts, and unique features such as spas or integrated water features.
Durability
Concrete is extremely strong, making it suitable for any backyard. Properly constructed concrete pools can last decades, resisting structural issues and heavy use.
Finishing Options
Concrete pools can be finished with tiles, plaster, or aggregate, allowing you to achieve a specific look and feel. Whether you prefer a sleek modern style or a natural aesthetic, concrete pools offer a design canvas that’s hard to match.
Maintenance Considerations
While concrete pools are durable, they do require regular maintenance. This includes balancing chemicals, cleaning surfaces, and occasional resurfacing every 10–15 years to maintain appearance and integrity.
Fibreglass Pools: Convenience and Speed
Fibreglass pools are pre-manufactured and delivered as a single piece, offering a quick and low-maintenance alternative to concrete.
Faster Installation
Installation of a fibreglass pool typically takes a few days to weeks, compared to several months for concrete pools. This makes them ideal for homeowners looking for a faster backyard transformation.
Smooth Finish
Fibreglass pools have a smooth, non-porous surface that resists algae and bacteria growth. This makes cleaning easier and reduces the need for frequent chemical adjustments.
Low Maintenance
Fibreglass requires minimal upkeep. Homeowners enjoy more time swimming and less time maintaining surfaces, balancing chemicals, or scrubbing walls.
Limited Customisation
While fibreglass pools come in a variety of pre-designed shapes and sizes, there is less flexibility compared to concrete. Homeowners may need to choose a design that fits the available space rather than fully customising features.
Cost Comparison: Concrete vs Fibreglass
Budget considerations play a key role in deciding which pool is right for your Gold Coast home.
Concrete Pool Costs
- Typically more expensive upfront due to custom design and longer construction time
- Higher long-term maintenance costs
- Resurfacing costs every 10–15 years
What About Running Costs?
Fibreglass Pool Costs
- Generally lower installation costs due to prefabrication
- Lower ongoing maintenance costs
- Limited customisation may reduce the perceived value for some homeowners
While concrete pools offer more design freedom, fibreglass pools provide a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution ideal for many families.
Aesthetic Considerations
Both types of pools can enhance the beauty of your backyard, but the visual impact differs.
- Concrete Pools – Can incorporate tiles, coloured plaster, or aggregates for a truly custom finish. Suitable for large or irregularly shaped backyards.
- Fibreglass Pools – Smooth, uniform surfaces that look modern and clean. Available in a range of standard colours and designs to suit typical backyard spaces.
Your choice may depend on whether you prioritise complete design freedom or ease of installation and maintenance.
Lifespan and Durability
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools, when constructed and maintained properly, can last 25–50 years. They are extremely strong and can handle heavy usage and unusual designs. However, they are susceptible to minor cracking over time, requiring occasional resurfacing.
Fibreglass Pools
Fibreglass pools generally last 20–30 years and are highly resistant to cracking or structural issues. The main limitation is that repairs, if required, may be more specialised than concrete.
Maintenance Differences
Understanding maintenance requirements is crucial for long-term satisfaction.
Concrete Pools
- Regular cleaning and chemical balancing required
- Algae growth more common due to porous surfaces
- Periodic resurfacing needed
Fibreglass Pools
- Smooth, non-porous finish resists algae
- Less frequent chemical adjustments
- Minimal surface maintenance required
Fibreglass pools are ideal for homeowners who want a pool that’s ready to use with minimal ongoing effort.
Choosing the Right Pool for Your Lifestyle
Your choice ultimately depends on your family’s lifestyle, budget, and backyard layout. Consider:
- Time Available for Maintenance – Fibreglass requires less effort.
- Design Preferences – Concrete offers complete customisation.
- Budget and Installation Timeline – Fibreglass pools install faster and may have lower upfront costs.
- Longevity and Durability Needs – Concrete pools are extremely durable for large, custom designs.
Tips for Gold Coast Homeowners
- Work with an experienced pool builder familiar with local climate and soil conditions
- Evaluate space limitations and access for delivery and installation
- Ask about warranties, particularly for fibreglass shells or concrete finishes
- Consider future plans, such as entertaining areas, landscaping, and pool surrounds
Pool Surrounds and Landscaping
Regardless of pool type, finishing the area with high-quality surrounds improves both aesthetics and safety. Popular options for Gold Coast homes include:
- Travertine or granite pavers for a natural, elegant look
- Non-slip concrete or composite decking for safety around pools
- Landscaping with native plants for low-maintenance beauty
- A pool installer can advise on the best options to complement your pool type and backyard layout.
Choosing between concrete and fibreglass pools comes down to balancing customisation, installation time, maintenance, and cost. Concrete pools offer flexibility, durability, and long-term design potential, while fibreglass pools provide fast installation, low maintenance, and ease of use.
For Gold Coast homeowners, understanding the differences ensures you select a pool that suits your lifestyle, complements your backyard, and provides enjoyment for years to come. With expert advice and a trusted pool builder, you can make an informed choice and create the perfect backyard retreat.