Disadvantages Of Fiberglass Pools In Canada

Disadvantages of Fiberglass Pools

Fiberglass pools are increasingly popular among Canadian homeowners, thanks to their low maintenance and quick installation. However, while they are a fantastic product and do offer several benefits, it's important to consider the downsides when deciding on the right pool for your home.

If you're weighing your options as a prospective pool owner, this guide is here to help. Below, we'll explore some of the key disadvantages of fiberglass pools in Canada, from design limitations to environmental concerns, and warranty problems giving you a balanced understanding before you make your investment.

Limited Design Options and Customization

If you have a specific vision for your backyard oasis, fiberglass pools might not be the best fit. Unlike vinyl liner pools, fiberglass pools come in pre-manufactured molds, meaning there is no ability to customize the interior features of the pool such as benches and steps.

Why Design Flexibility Matters

• Standardized Shapes and Sizes: Fiberglass pools typically come in a fixed range of shapes and sizes with a maximum dimension of 16' Wide x 40' Long x 8' Deep. If you're looking for a unique design or a specific size or depth to complement a challenging backyard layout, this will limit your options.
• Pool Depth Limited By Size: A major challenge we run into with fiberglass pools is how the depth of the pool is limited by the overall width and length of the pool. Typically to get an 8' deep diving depth with a fiberglass pool you need a very large 16' x 40' fiberglass pool. The challenge with this is many homeowners just cant fit a pool that large into their yard. With vinyl liner or concrete pools you have the ability to alter the depth of the pool even with smaller sized pools.
• Aesthetic Limitations: While fiberglass pools often include integrated features like steps and benches, these are designed for general appeal, which may not align with your personal style or preferences. With vinyl liner pools they can be fully customized in almost anyway with vinyl over steel steps to your exact specifications

For homeowners who prioritize pool aesthetics or have specific spatial requirements, this could feel restrictive compared to building a fully customizable concrete pool.

Pool Structure & Finish Durability & Longevity

When we refer to the pools structure we aren't referring to the gel coat finish of a fiberglass pool or the vinyl liner in a vinyl pool we are referring to the bones of the pool the structural components that make it stand the test of time. The Finish of the pools refers to either the vinyl liner or gel coat finish.

Longevity Concerns

• Fiberglass Pools: The structure of a fiberglass pool can last a very long time. Upwards of 30, 40 or even 50 years. The gel coat finish however does not last anywhere near as long as advertised and will typically last around 15 years in some cases longer and in a lot of cases even less than that. Proper water chemistry and pool maintenance is absolutely vital to getting the most out of your fiberglass pool. That warranty you were promised won't likely be their to help you either which we discuss a little bit further in this article
• Vinyl Pools: The Structure of a vinyl liner pools will last just as long as a fiberglass pool easily lasting 30, 40, 50 years and in many cases even longer. The typical vinyl liner will last between 10-15 years but again this is no different than a fiberglass pool water chemistry and pool maintenance are absolutely vital in getting the most out of your liner
• Fiberglass Pool Repair Complexity: For the most part having a vinyl liner pool renovated and repaired is very simple. Their is no shortage of skilled companies all across North America that have the ability to make those repairs. Repairing or refinishing a fiberglass pool on the other hand especially in Canada can be very very challenging.

Warranty Challenges & Finish Longevity

When researching fiberglass pools, you might see manufacturers tout long wonderful warranties as a benefit. But here’s the truth—not all fiberglass pool manufacturers and not all warranties offer the peace of mind they promise.

Misleading Warranties

Fiberglass pool warranties can be incredibly misleading and often times purchasers are left thinking that if absolutely anything happens to their pool it will be covered under warranty. This is very far from the truth and it is very important you read and understand your pool warranty. The warranties provided by manufacturers are for manufacturing defects only. For example, fading of the gel coat surface which is absolutely guaranteed to happen to the point of almost total bleaching overtime will not be covered and when it comes to making a warranty claim will almost always be blamed on improper water chemistry whether that is the case or not.

Gel Coat Maintenance

The gel coat finish of a fiberglass pool provides a smooth, non-porous surface that resists algae growth. However, this finish is not permanent:

• Fading and Deterioration: Over time, exposure to pool chemicals and UV rays can cause the gel coat to fade or blister.
• Water Chemistry Importance: Maintaining precise pool water chemistry is crucial to protecting the finish. Any imbalance can shorten its lifespan, leading to costly resurfacing. which is not covered under warranty.

Installation Challenges for Fiberglass Pools in Canada

While the allure of fast installation often attracts homeowners to fiberglass pools, the process isn't without its challenges, especially in Canadian landscapes.

Transportation and Site Limitations

Fiberglass pool shells are delivered as a single unit, which can pose logistical difficulties. Narrow streets, uneven terrain, or densely populated neighborhoods may complicate transport and delivery.

Potential Installation Delays

• Weather Constraints: Working around Canada's unpredictable weather can lead to delays in excavation and installation.
• Preparation Requirements: The ground must be properly leveled and prepared to ensure the fiberglass shell settles correctly, sometimes delaying timelines further.

Future Pool Renovations

With fiberglass pools what you see is what your stuck with for as long as you have the pool. You might refinish the pool to be a different colour but renovating it to feature different steps or include new benches in the future just isn't going to happen.

Vinyl liner pools on the other hand are fairly simple to renovate and making changes and alterations in the future as trends change or your style does is for the most part a simple process. Steps can be removed and replace, benches can be added, the options for pool renovations down the road are almost endless.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Sustainability is an increasingly important factor for many homeowners, and fiberglass pools may fall short in this area.

Manufacturing and Disposal Concerns

Fiberglass production relies on non-renewable petroleum-based materials, which contribute to the carbon footprint of manufacturing. Additionally, at the end of their life cycle, disposing of fiberglass shells can pose challenges due to limited recycling options.

Comparisons with Other Pool Types

While concrete pools also have a sizable environmental impact due to high energy consumption during construction, their longevity often makes them a more sustainable option. Vinyl liner pools are relatively easier to repair and replace, reducing material waste over time.

Making an Informed Decision

Fiberglass pools offer several advantages, but as we've outlined, they also come with considerable drawbacks—particularly for Canadian homeowners. From limited design options to weather-related stress and environmental concerns, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully.

When planning your backyard pool, consider your budget, climate, and long-term maintenance needs. For those seeking more flexibility, concrete or vinyl liner pools might be a better fit.

Need More Guidance?

If you're still unsure which pool type suits you best, consult our Fiberglass & Vinyl pool experts or browse our comprehensive pool guides for additional insights into the pros and cons of popular installations.