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Home / Blog / Vinyl vs. Fiberglass

Vinyl vs. Fiberglass

So, you’re in the market for a pool. With the variations in types of pools, budgets to factor in, customization desires, landscape requirements, and more to consider, this can seem like a daunting decision to any homeowner.

Like most other pool options, fiberglass pool popularity was revived with the heightened demand for pools during Covid, and has been making quite a splash in pool industry news ever since. While they do have their advantages, (and we, as pool experts and major manufacturer/Dealers as well as thought leaders in the industry, cannot deny this) their shiny ‘new toy’ appeal and hyped benefits through the industry media may still not be able to outweigh the benefits of a traditional, ‘tried and true’ vinyl-lined pool.

Why are vinyl pools best option as the centerpiece of your backyard oasis? Even more—why is FOX POOL the ideal choice when deciding on pool kits and liners? Dive into the key benefits of Fox vinyl pools below for a more informed, confident decision during the pool shopping process:

    (can’t say the same for fiberglass)

    While most fiberglass manufacturers have upgraded shell colors and mold offerings, customers are still limited in size and future customization capabilities. Fiberglass pools have to be transported by truck, and cannot be larger than a certain length and width. While they can be molded with steps, sundecks, benches, etc. that is a very permanent decision at time of purchase. If an additional pool element needs to be added in the future, an entire new mold will need to be created (which gets costly, quickly).

    (yikes, fiberglass)

    One of the biggest drawbacks to fiberglass pools is the nature of how fiberglass can react to its environment. If proper installation is not performed carefully and the water pressure cannot hold up against the backfill pressure, cracks will begin to form in the shell. Not only can these be unsightly, they can also cause significant leaking, and depending on size, may need to be resurfaced, or worse, completely replaced (this is costly, as you can imagine). Tears in vinyl can be patched quickly and easily (sometimes in DIY scenarios). If a vinyl replacement Is needed, this is much more affordable ($2,000-3500) and faster than resurfacing ($5,000-10,000).

    5) Vinyl pools; a timeless treasure through generations

    It’s no secret that over time vinyl needs to be replaced. While this is a known maintenance responsibility for a homeowner, there is potential in this that fiberglass simply cannot offer. Average maximum lifespan of a fiberglass pool is 50 years if well maintained. However, a vinyl pool matches this and can even surpass it as replacement liners add on to the lifespan. This means a family can potentially enjoy swimming through generations with the original pool foundation intact. Not to mention, you can choose a new vinyl pattern with every replacement giving your pool the look and appearance of ‘like new’ throughout its lifetime (there’s that ‘customization’ aspect again). Unless a new shell is installed, fiberglass simply cannot compete here.


    The list can and does go on.

    For homeowners with budget, maintenance, longevity, and customization at the top of their list, vinyl-lined pools are the best option for a luxurious and reliable addition to their backyard. More than just selling a vinyl pool, you’re selling a Fox Vinyl Pool—a proud manufacturer and distributor of superior swimming pools across North America with over 60 years of turning backyard dreams into reality. Our liners are handcrafted in our in-house Liner Shop with meticulous detail and quality control to ensure they are the perfect ‘finishing touch’ to lay elegantly on top of our high-quality pool products. Need more convincing? Check out our pools and let the vinyl aesthetic speak for itself.