If you’re thinking about installing a new in-ground swimming pool, the materials you choose will impact your upfront costs, ongoing maintenance requirements, and overall backyard appeal. Stick around for the pros and cons of gunite vs fiberglass pools.
Key comparisons between a gunite vs fiberglass pool
It’s almost unfair to compare a gunite vs fiberglass swimming pool, as these two types of structures offer such different benefits, pose different problems, and cater to very different needs. Let’s dive into the characteristics that distinguish these materials.
Installation and customization
If you want to design a fully customized backyard oasis, there’s no better solution than gunite. Installers achieve unique configurations by spraying a concrete mixture onto a steel rebar frame. It requires a longer installation time (often eight to 16 weeks or more from start to finish), but the results are worth the wait.
Fiberglass is sold as pre-fabricated inserts that are placed into an excavated hole in the ground. Since these kits are readily available, you can be lounging in your new pool less than a month after breaking ground. The tradeoff is that customization is minimal and often limited to deck features and shallow benches.
Initial costs and ongoing maintenance
Price is another determining factor when choosing between gunite vs fiberglass pools. Gunite is inherently more expensive due to higher material and labor costs. Its rough, porous surface can harbor algae and increase chemical demand. Expect a resurfacing job every 10 to 15 years.
That said, gunite enhances your property value more than cheaper alternatives. Fiberglass is more affordable than gunite and easier to maintain. Its smooth surface inhibits algae growth and won’t alter your water chemistry.
Durability
A well-maintained fiberglass pool can last 20 to 30 years, showing little wear aside from fading and stress lines. But if you want a pool that will last for generations, choose gunite. With a lifespan of 50 to 100 years or more, this type of pool has more in common with a medieval fortress than a vinyl liner. Though cracking may occur over time, they’re not hard to repair.
Surfacing
Gunite pools can be finished with plaster, waterline tile, or aggregate materials, such as Pebble Tec, Stonescape, and Diamond Brite. There’s really no limit to customized aesthetics, with a wide variety of colors, textures, and finishes. Fiberglass pools simply can’t compare. Your options will include whatever colors the manufacturer has in stock.
Related: Pebble Tec Pool Surface: Beauty and Durability All In One
General maintenance for gunite pools
So, what does it actually take to keep a gunite pool in great condition? Here’s an overview of the routine maintenance required for optimal longevity:
Weekly maintenance tasks
With a fiberglass pool, you can occasionally slack off when it comes to balancing water chemistry and scrubbing surfaces, but that isn’t the case with gunite. Thanks to a porous surface, improper chemical loads can affect the structural integrity of a gunite pool, while failing to dislodge algae can quickly lead to an overgrowth of microorganisms. \
To reduce these risks, perform the following maintenance tasks at least once a week:
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Balance water chemistry
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Brush interior pool surfaces
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Skim and vacuum
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Check equipment for malfunctions, pressure fluctuations, leaks, and unusual noises
Monthly maintenance
Your monthly checklist includes:
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Deep cleaning the filter
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Inspecting for surface changes
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Shocking the water, if needed
Long-term care and structural maintenance
Gunite pools may require occasional acid washing to remove stains, plaster repairs to fix cracks, and general resurfacing every 10 to 15 years. These pools require more costly long-term maintenance, but you may never need to replace the foundation. And this is a task that’s eventually necessary for all fiberglass pools after a few decades.
Related: Time to Resurface the Pool? 8 Signs to Look For
General maintenance for fiberglass pools
A fiberglass pool is relatively low-maintenance vs gunite, making it a great choice for owners who handle weekly and monthly upkeep.
Weekly maintenance
The weekly maintenance requirements for fiberglass pools are identical to those for gunite – at least on paper. While you should balance water chemistry, scrub surfaces, skim debris, and vacuum each week, you won’t face serious consequences if you take a few extra days between cleanings. Since the surface of a fiberglass pool is completely smooth, algae and other small organisms can’t take hold and wreak havoc on your entire pool.
Monthly maintenance
Each month, complete the following:
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Clean the filter
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Inspect the gel coat for dulling and discoloration
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Remove oils, sunscreen, and other buildup from the waterline
Fiberglass-specific pool care
Don’t use steel brushes, harsh scouring pads, or aggressive acids on a fiberglass pool. These surfaces may develop osmosis blisters over time, especially if the water chemistry is regularly imbalanced. You should also consider a pool cover to protect against prolonged UV exposure.
Related: Resurfacing a Pool: The Process and What To Expect
GPS Pools is your go-to for pro maintenance and repair!
Here’s the bottom line: Gunite is a luxury material that enables pool builders to craft bespoke designs in all shapes, sizes, and configurations, while fiberglass is affordable, low-maintenance, and easy to install. The right option will depend on your budget, design goals, and tolerance for maintenance. Ready to design the pool and hot tub you’ve always wanted? Reach out to GPS Pools today!