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The Daily Insight

Are Fiberglass pools more expensive than liner pools

Author

Emily Carr

Updated on April 16, 2026

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).

What is the downside of fiberglass pools?

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).

Is a fiberglass pool cheaper than a regular pool?

Depending on the region you reside in, the initial cost of an average fiberglass pool is approximately $30,000 – $45,000. If you factor in the yearly maintenance cost over ten years, fiberglass pools are significantly less expensive than vinyl liner pools and concrete pools overall.

What is the average cost of a fiberglass pool installed?

A fiberglass pool costs $47,000 on average, with most homeowners spending between $24,333 and $70,000. Fiberglass pools cost $47,000 on average, with most homeowners spending between $24,333 to $70,000.

What type of pool is more expensive?

Concrete. Concrete pools are the most popular—and most expensive—type of pool. They’re often called Gunite or Shotcrete pools; that’s because builders pump wet concrete through a hose and shoot it from a gun onto steel-reinforced walls.

Is a fiberglass pool worth the money?

Both are considered top-tier pool building materials. … That said, in terms of total cost of ownership, it’s worth noting that maintaining a fiberglass pool is generally cheaper. That’s because fiberglass is more algae resistant, and therefore could save you money on chemicals over the life of the pool.

Are fiberglass pools worth it?

Fiberglass pools are extremely easy to maintain, can be installed quickly, are very durable, and can be beautifully designed. However, their initial cost can be higher than vinyl liner pools, and the shapes and sizes are not as customizable.

How much does a 12x24 inground pool cost?

12×24 Inground Pool Cost A 12-foot by 24-foot pool is considered medium-sized, and is suitable for swimming laps. The cost for this size, on average, will be between $26,000 and $38,000, depending on the type of material used.

How much does a 12x24 fiberglass pool cost?

How Much Does A 12×24 Inground Pool Cost? A 12×24 inground pool costs an average of $33,696 for fiberglass, whereas a vinyl liner pool runs $26,208, and a gunite or concrete pool costs $37,440.

How long do fiberglass pool last?

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.

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Which type of inground pool is best?

Concrete pools tend to be the strongest of all the inground swimming pools. Since they are rebar and concrete they can’t oxidize or corrode. Like every other form of concrete, they get stronger as time passes.

How much does a fiberglass pool shell cost?

Fiberglass Pool Shell Prices The average cost of a fiberglass pool shell ranges from $4,450 to $30,000 or more, with an average price of about $8,750. Factors that affect the price include its shape, size and depth. Custom options with additions like spas or tanning shelves are the most expensive.

Can a fiberglass pool be salt water?

Fiberglass swimming pools are very compatible with salt water systems. … Salt water is abrasive on the interior surfaces of concrete/ gunite pools, especially those that have plaster within them. Many families report that they enjoy swimming within a pool that has a salt water system.

What type of pool has the least maintenance?

Fiberglass pools need the least maintenance, and they cost the least ($3,750 over 10 years).

What is the easiest type of pool to maintain?

The smooth, non-porous surface of a fiberglass pool makes it very difficult for algae to gain a foothold. Consequently, it makes it very easy for you to keep it clean. Corrosion resistant. Fiberglass resists corrosion, so it is an excellent option for popular salt sanitation systems.

Does a fiberglass pool increase home value?

The National Association of Realtors has said that a concrete or fiberglass pool may add roughly 5% to a home’s value, but again, this number can vary. In other words, although you will get some returns (financially speaking) for your swimming pool, they likely won’t match the overall cost of the pool project.

What happens to fiberglass pool after 25 years?

What is the life expectancy of a fiberglass pool? A fiberglass pool is expected to last up to more than 25 years – the reason they are the most low-cost option in the long run. Their surface does not support algae growth and resists stain, which means maintenance cost and hassle is significantly minimized.

How long does it take to install a fiberglass pool?

The great thing about fiberglass swimming pools is they have a fast turnaround time and you could be swimming in your new pool in as little as 3-7 days! Most standard projects take between 2-4 weeks based on a variety of factors that you should account for prior to starting the project.

Is vinyl or fiberglass pool better?

Is a fiberglass or vinyl liner pool better for me? Vinyl liner pools typically cost about $10,000 less than fiberglass pools upfront. However, they need the liner replaced every 5–9 years and tend to look cheap. Fiberglass pools are much more durable, need less maintenance, and look classy.

Is a gunite pool better than fiberglass?

Fiberglass is a smooth, nonporous surface so algae won’t stick to the walls. Gunite walls, typically made of porous materials, can be a breeding ground for algae. … This means, you don’t have to scrub the walls as you would with a gunite pool, making it easier to maintain.

How much does a 12 x24 inground fiberglass pool cost?

12′ x 24′ Fiberglass Pool Cost A 12′ x 24′ fiberglass pool ranges from $25,000 to $45,000, fully installed. This is the most common size of “small” pool. It is large enough to do laps in but small enough to fit in most yards.

Do pools increase home value?

How much does a pool add value to a home? There isn’t a simple answer to how much value is added to a home with the addition of an inground pool. Some reports say that the average increase you can expect is between 5 and 8 percent, while another study suggests that 7 percent is the best you’re going to do.

What is the cost of a 20x40 gunite pool?

Pool Size (feet)Price14x28$19,600 – $48,75016×32$25,600 – $66,56018×36$32,400 – $84,24020×40$40,000 – $104,000

What kind of pool can I get for $20000?

A fiberglass pool costs $20,000 to $36,500. This includes delivery, installation and a basic deck or coping. Maintenance runs an average of $5,000 to $15,000 over a 10-year period.

How much does a Viking fiberglass pool cost?

Viking Shells 2020- (with any Viking upgrade finish): 14 X 28 (Valencia) $18,000 plus tax and delivery. 14 X 30 (Carmel) $19,200 plus tax and delivery. 14 X 33 (Claremont) $19,600 plus tax and delivery. 16 X 33 (Lake Shore) $20,800 plus tax and delivery.

Which is more expensive saltwater or chlorine pool?

A saltwater pool is more expensive than a traditional pool because it requires a higher initial investment. Compared to chlorinated pools, a saltwater pools system is more complex. … You will need to purchase underwater lighting, heaters, fixtures, liners, and masonry work specific to saltwater pools.

Is salt or chlorine better for a fiberglass pool?

There are some great pro’s and con’s to both saltwater and chlorine pools. Such as saltwater is gentler on the eyes and skin over chlorine pools. Yet a chlorine pool can be easier to manage over a saltwater pool system. … Fiberglass swimming pools are very compatible with salt water systems.

What is the cheapest way to maintain a pool?

  1. Skim All Floating Debris and Regularly Clean the Skimmer and the Pump Baskets.
  2. Clean the Filter Regularly.
  3. Change Old Gaskets and O-Rings and Keep Them Lubed.
  4. Keep an Eye on the Pressure Gauge.
  5. Add Chlorine Stabilizer Before it is Depleted.

Which is cheaper salt water or chlorine pool?

Chlorine pools are more traditional and are also cheaper than most saltwater pools. However, they can be more difficult to maintain over time. Because there is no generator making chlorine, you will need to add chlorine into the pool on your own.

What is in salt water pools?

Salt pools are, in fact, sanitized using chlorine. A salt-chlorine generator separates the chlorine and sodium molecules in salt and reintroduces them into the pool water. It is still the chlorine that sanitizes your pool! Another misconception is that salt pools do not require other chemicals.