Pools can be made of several different materials, including concrete (or gunite), vinyl, and fiberglass. Each material has its pros and cons, and the best option for you may not be the best option for someone else. However, we do feel that fiberglass pools don’t get the credit they deserve. This pool material has many benefits that often go overlooked, so we wanted to take the time to highlight them. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of a fiberglass pool installation in New Jersey.
Weather Resistance
New Jersey can experience some pretty wild temperature swings and may go through several freezing-thawing cycles during the winter months. For other materials, this can sometimes present an issue and lead to flaking or cracking of the pool’s surface, in the case of gunite, and wrinkling, in the case of vinyl. Fiberglass, however, has incredible strength and flexibility. It stands up to these temperature changes incredibly well. Additionally, you don’t need the temperature to be within a rigorous range to get your fiberglass pool installed; that flexibility in the material gives you more flexibility regarding when you install your pool.
Low Maintenance
Concrete and vinyl pools will require regular repairs and patches from time to time. Of course, you can’t ignore them entirely. You will still need to ensure that your pool’s chemicals stay within acceptable ranges, and you should skim out leaves and debris regularly. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is much lower maintenance, and that fiberglass shell can last a lifetime. However, because the fiberglass has a gel coating, it requires less frequent brushing than concrete or vinyl pools, saving you a lot of time in weekly maintenance tasks.
Smoother Surface
The fiberglass shell of a pool is much smoother and softer than a gunite pool. If you’ve ever scraped your elbow against the wall of a concrete pool by mistake, you know just how rough that surface can be. For pools that will be used for more physical activities like water volleyball—or if you have rowdy kids who might get carried away while playing in the pool—a smoother surface can help reduce unnecessary scraps and scratches.
More Compatible with Saltwater
Saltwater pools are growing in popularity as an alternative to chlorinated pools. These systems keep the water through a process known as electrolysis, allowing you to have a beautiful, clean pool without adding harsh chemicals. While a saltwater system can technically be installed on any pool, regardless of its material, it is worth noting that the plaster on concrete pools can be damaged more readily in a saltwater system. Fiberglass pools are more compatible with saltwater systems and won’t experience any damage.
Speed and Cost
The most significant advantage most people see in a fiberglass pool is the speed with which it can be installed—and the lower costs that result from the reduced labor hours. Fiberglass pools come as a prefabricated shell, so you can select the size and shape you want, have the hole dug, then place the entire shell into it at once. This allows your pool to be installed much more quickly and is a much more affordable option than most other installations while still offering you the flexibility to modify and customize your pool.
If you’re considering a new pool installation in New Jersey, contact the Atlantic Pool Experts to learn more about the different types of pools and get professional guidance in choosing the suitable material and design for your home. Call now to schedule a consultation.