You may think fiberglass pools may look nice, but over time, they start to show their age. Damage, fading, discoloration, and other defects may begin to show on your pool’s surface. This is common because pools constructed of fiberglass lack the durability offered by a gunite pool. Gunite pool construction uses a durable concrete mixture that is reinforced with a steel rebar cage. If the gunite shell becomes damaged over time, it can easily be repaired. If your pool has any of the following symptoms, consider upgrading your pool. 

 

Have you noticed small cracks appearing in your fiberglass pool? These can look like a spider web with a wheel and a spoke design, which earns them the nickname “spider cracks.” Spider cracks form when the pool is dropped or damaged during shipping or installation. You may not see them when the pool is first installed, but once your pool is full, you can’t help but see them. Spider cracks are a common complaint by fiberglass pool owners. The cracks can also form when a high amount of pressure occurs against the surface and the pool's gel coating is unable to flex properly. These cracks are in the gel coating and detract from the appearance of your pool. This is one reason why you might want to replace fiberglass pools with gunite.

 

A pool made of fiberglass is a pre-built shell and they can vary in strength. After the pool is installed, you may notice the walls bulging or protruding. The problem is often with the backfill material used during pool installation. A common backfill choice for fiberglass pools is sand. Unfortunately, when the sand is wet from groundwater, it is heavier. This extra weight can press on the shell, causing the pool walls to bulge over time. Your pool might also have a bulge due to improper installation. A gunite pool swimming pool is made of concrete and isn’t prefabricated so it won’t bulge. 

Not every pool company will offer an exact match to the existing gel coat. Fiberglass pools can be hard to repair to their original appearance, especially compared to a gunite pool. A gunite pool has multiple components that are easy to replace if damaged. A fiberglass pool, however, is a single piece, so any repair to coating will consist of patches. 

 

A mismatched color choice will make your pool even more of an eyesore.  A gunite pool is more durable than a fiberglass pool and offers a full range of customization options. Gunite pools let you choose any finish you can imagine with colors beyond the typical fiberglass pool coatings. 

 

Your fiberglass pool will never look like it did when it was originally installed. A gunite pool can always be restored to look brand-new, but if you have an unsightly fiberglass pool, you will need to get it completely replaced. Replacing your fiberglass pool is a cumbersome process that involves removing your patio and anything installed around it. 

 

If your pool has started to show examples of wear and damage like spider cracks or bulging, consider the benefits you receive when you replace fiberglass pools with gunite. When compared to fiberglass, inground gunite pools offer the following:

 

    ● Greater durability

    ● Endless customization options

    ● Longer lifespan

    ● A beautiful and classic appearance

 

The choice is clear. If you want a durable and long-lasting pool for your backyard, it’s time to replace fiberglass with gunite. You will have a beautiful pool that lasts a lifetime, but it won’t come with the same issues that fiberglass pools offer. We’ve been installing beautiful pools throughout the Northeast in Albany, and the surrounding areas. We’re happy to answer any questions on gunite swimming pools or our construction process.