Concrete Pools v Fibreglass Pools - Which Is Cheaper To Maintain?

Installation Costs: Comparing the Initial Investment

Concrete Pools: Built to Last, Designed Your Way

If you want complete design freedom, a concrete pool lets you create just about anything—think luxury resort vibes, infinity edges, or even a custom pool that wraps around your deck. Sounds pretty good, right? The catch? It takes time, costs more, and needs more maintenance over the years. 

Customisation: The Ultimate Blank Canvas

Want a pool shaped like a guitar? Or a deep end that’s actually deep? Concrete pools can be built in any size, depth, or design you can dream up. If your backyard has an unusual shape or tricky slope, concrete is the most flexible option.

Labour Costs: More Time, More Hands, More Dollars

• Concrete pools are built entirely on-site, layer by layer, which means longer construction times and higher labour costs.
• Because the process involves multiple trades (excavation, steelwork, concrete pouring, tiling, etc.), you’re paying for a bigger team and more time on the tools.
• And don’t forget—if the weather isn’t playing nice, expect delays.

Got a Sloping or Awkward Yard?

• If you’ve got challenging access, uneven ground, or unique landscaping needs, a concrete pool can be designed to fit where other pool types might not work.
• The trade-off? More complexity = higher costs.

If you would like more on pool installation costs, check out our blog - How Much Does It Cost To Install A Pool?

Fibreglass Pools - Quick, Easy and Low Maintenance

If you want a hassle-free pool that won’t take months to install, fibreglass pools are a top contender. Since the shell arrives pre-made, most of the hard work is done before it even gets to your backyard. Once the site is prepped, you could be swimming in just a few days.

Pre-Moulded Designs: Less Choice, But Faster Installation

• Fibreglass pools come in pre-designed shapes and sizes, which means less flexibility than concrete—but plenty of great options to suit most backyards.
• What you lose in customisation, you gain in convenience and cost savings.

Lower Labour Costs: Most of the Work Happens Off-Site

• Since the pool shell is built in a factory, there’s less on-site labour compared to concrete.
• Once the excavation is sorted, the pool is craned into place and installed in a matter of days.

Installation Speed: No Waiting Months for a Swim

• Concrete pools take months to build. Fibreglass? A few weeks max.
• Fewer trades, fewer delays, faster results.

Whatever pool type you choose, don’t forget about those sneaky extras—things like landscaping, fencing, or optional features like heating and lighting. These can quickly add up and significantly impact your final price, so make sure to factor in these costs upfront to avoid any surprises down the track!

Long-Term Maintenance: Which Pool Type Saves You More?

The upfront cost of a pool is just the beginning—the real question is how much time, effort, and cash you’ll be spending year after year to keep it sparkling clean. Concrete and fibreglass pools have very different maintenance needs, and those differences can have a big impact on your long-term budget.

Chemical Usage and Water Balancing

Concrete pools are porous, meaning algae and bacteria can seep into the surface. This means:

• You’ll need more chlorine to keep the water sanitised.
• Concrete naturally raises pH levels, so expect to use more acid to keep the water balanced.
• Black spot algae is a particular concern for concrete pools. It can be tough to eradicate once it takes hold, often requiring specialised treatments or even resurfacing if the algae penetrates deep into the plaster.

Fibreglass pools have a non-porous, smooth surface, which means:

• Less algae growth = fewer chemicals needed.
• Water chemistry stays more stable, so you’ll use less acid, chlorine and balancing chemicals.
• Cleaning is a quick skim and broom of the walls.

 

 

Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
 

Energy efficiency is a big deal, especially when it comes to heat retention and electricity costs. The type of pool you choose can affect how much energy is needed to maintain the perfect swimming temperature and how well that heat is retained.

Heat Retention

A pool is only as good as the time you actually get to spend in it, and heat retention plays a massive role in how often you’ll be diving in—especially during cooler months. The material your pool is made from can make a big difference in how well it holds heat, how often you need to run a heater, and ultimately, how much you spend on energy.

Fibreglass pools are natural insulators thanks to their multi-layered shell construction, which helps trap heat in the water. That means:

• Water stays warmer for longer, reducing the need for constant heating.
• Lower energy consumption, since your heater doesn’t need to work as hard.
• Great for extending your swim season without blowing out your electricity bill.

Concrete pools, on the other hand, are porous, meaning they absorb heat from the water and release it into the surrounding ground. This leads to:

• Faster heat loss, especially at night or in cooler climates.
• More frequent heating cycles, which can drive up energy costs.
• Greater temperature fluctuations, meaning you might need to run your heater for longer periods to maintain a comfortable swim temperature.

What Does This Mean for Heating Costs?
If you plan on using a pool heater (electric, gas, or solar), expect higher energy bills with a concrete pool since it won’t hold onto heat as efficiently as fibreglass.

Free Pool Heating eGuide - Download here for more information on heating your pool and heating costs. 

 

Which Pool Type Lasts Longer?

A pool isn’t just a backyard upgrade—it’s a long-term investment, so it’s worth knowing which type will stand the test of time. Both fibreglass and concrete pools are built to last, but their durability depends on material quality, ongoing maintenance, and how well they handle wear and tear over the years.

Fibreglass Pools: Built to Last with Minimal Upkeep

Lifespan: 25–30+ years with minimal maintenance.

• Low wear and tear: The gelcoat surface resists stains, chemical damage, and fading.
• Crack-resistant: The flexible nature of fibreglass makes it highly resistant to structural cracking, even in areas with shifting soil or temperature fluctuations.
• No resurfacing needed: Unlike concrete, fibreglass pools don’t need resurfacing—just a light polish above the waterline every 5 or 10 years to keep the gel coat looking fresh.

Potential Issues?

If the pool shell is poorly manufactured, the gelcoat may fade or develop minor surface cracks (often called “crazing”), but these are mostly cosmetic and can be repaired. Choosing a high-quality fibreglass pool from a trusted supplier is key to prevent this occurring.

Concrete Pools: Longer Lifespan, But More Maintenance

• Lifespan: 50+ years with proper care and resurfacing every 10 to 15 years.
• Custom finish options: Tiles and pebblecrete are the most durable however comes with a decent price tag. Plaster finish is the cheapest however requires the most ongoing maintenance. 

But Here’s the Catch…

• The surface wears down over time, becoming rougher and more porous, leading to staining, algae growth, and higher chemical use.
• Concrete pools require resurfacing every 10–15 years, which can cost between $5,000 and $20,000 depending on the chosen finish and size of the pool.
• Cracks can develop, especially if the soil underneath shifts. While minor cracks can be repaired, larger structural cracks may require expensive fixes.
• More maintenance required – Regular acid washing may be needed to remove stubborn stains and calcium buildup, adding to long-term costs.

 

Long-Term Cost Considerations

Even though concrete pools can last longer overall, their higher maintenance requirements and resurfacing costs make them more expensive to maintain over time. Fibreglass pools, on the other hand, have lower maintenance costs and don’t require resurfacing, which means less money spent in the long run.

 

 

The Verdict: Which Pool Is Really Cheaper to Maintain?

When it comes to long-term maintenance costs, fibreglass pools take the win. With fewer chemicals, less cleaning, and no resurfacing required, they’re designed to save you time, effort, and money over the years.

Why Fibreglass Pools Cost Less to Maintain

• Fewer chemicals needed – The smooth, non-porous surface means less algae growth, so you won’t be spending a fortune on chlorine and algaecides.
• Lower energy costs – Fibreglass pools retain heat better, meaning less heating required and lower electricity bills.
• No resurfacing required – A well-maintained fibreglass pool can go 25+ years without needing major repairs, whereas concrete pools require resurfacing every 10–15 years.

Why Concrete Pools Have Higher Maintenance Costs

• More chemicals needed – The porous surface absorbs water, leading to higher pH levels and more frequent chemical balancing.
• More cleaning required – Regular brushing and acid washing may be needed to prevent algae growth and calcium buildup.
• Resurfacing costs – Expect to resurface a concrete pool every 10–15 years, which can cost thousands of dollars.

 

 

So, Which One Should You Choose?

• Want a pool that’s easier and cheaper to maintain? Fibreglass is the clear winner.
• Want full customisation and don’t mind the extra work? Concrete is a solid choice—just budget for long-term upkeep.

Still Unsure? Let’s Find the Right Pool for You!

Choosing between concrete and fibreglass pools comes down to what matters most to you—custom design or low maintenance, budget or long-term savings, faster installation or full flexibility.

If you’re still weighing up your options, we’re here to help! Whether you need advice on pool sizes, installation, or equipment, our team can point you in the right direction.

Want to explore fibreglass pool options? Check out our range of fibreglass pool designs or chat with us today—we’ll help you find the perfect pool to fit your backyard and budget.

Have questions? Give us a call or send us a message—we’d love to help you get one step closer to your dream pool.