Are fiberglass pools durable?
Yes. Barrier Reef fiberglass pools are built to withstand shifting soil, temperature extremes, and daily wear. The reinforced shell structure is designed for long-term performance and can last for decades.
How are fiberglass pools made?
Each Barrier Reef pool starts with a precision-engineered mold. Layers of gelcoat, vinyl ester and GP resin, along with fiberglass, are applied in a controlled environment. The result is a strong, flexible, waterproof shell that’s built to last and ready for installation.
How long does it take to install a fiberglass pool?
Installation typically takes just 2 to 6 weeks—much faster than concrete pools, which can take several months. Since fiberglass pools arrive fully formed, the on-site construction process is significantly shorter and less disruptive. Timing can be affected by weather, permitting, site conditions, and unforeseen delays that may occur beyond our control.
What design options are available with fiberglass pools?
Barrier Reef offers a wide selection of shapes—from sleek rectangles to freeform designs—plus features like integrated spas, sundecks, and six color choices to match your backyard style.
What kind of maintenance do fiberglass pools require?
Very little. Their smooth surface resists algae, which reduces the need for harsh chemicals. There’s no liner to replace, no acid washing required, and no resurfacing needed like with other pool types.
What makes fiberglass pools better than other types?
Fiberglass pools are made as one solid, seamless shell, which means they’re less prone to leaks and require less maintenance. Unlike concrete or vinyl pools, fiberglass options arrive pre-finished and pre-molded, making installation faster and the long-term upkeep easier.
What’s inside a fiberglass pool shell?
Every pool shell includes multiple layers: a flow coat seal, vinyl ester resin, fiberglass reinforcement, and a smooth gelcoat finish—each contributing to its strength, flexibility, and longevity.
Why are fiberglass pools so popular?
They combine elegant design, quick installation, and long-term durability. Homeowners appreciate their low maintenance needs, built-in features, and variety of shapes and colors.
Why should I choose a Barrier Reef fiberglass pool?
Barrier Reef pools are crafted for performance, beauty, and convenience. They offer long-lasting durability and minimal maintenance—perfect for homeowners who want to enjoy their pool without constant upkeep. With over 40 years of excellence in manufacturing pools, you can rest assured that you’re receiving the highest quality pool products.
Are fiberglass swimming pools more expensive than vinyl in ground pools?
While the initial purchase price of fiberglass pools is typically about 15%-20% more than average vinyl lined pools (due to costs associated primarily with shipping) you must realize what the operating costs are between the two. BE WEARY OF THE CHEAP PACKAGES. If you are being quoted a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is. The adage that “You get what you pay for” holds very true in this industry.
With vinyl lined swimming pools it is not a question of IF you will have to replace the liner it is a question of WHEN. You must realize that when you are required to replace the liner in a vinyl lined swimming pool there are several costs associated with this process. Due to the nature of the floor in vinyl lined pools it is commonplace to have to repair it while replacing the liner. This repair adds time and labor to what is already an expensive process.
In addition to the time and labor for repairing the base you also have the following costs: new liner, water, labor, chemicals and whatever price you put on your personal time and aggravation for dealing with the issue. AFTER YOU REPLACE YOUR LINER ONCE, YOU WILL HAVE SAVED MONEY BY PUTTING A FIBERGLASS SWIMMING POOL IN TO START WITH.
How do fiberglass pools compare to concrete or vinyl pools?
Fiberglass pools are faster to install, easier to maintain, and more resistant to wear and tear. Concrete pools require resurfacing and regular chemical treatments, while vinyl liners can tear or wrinkle. Fiberglass avoids both issues.
How long does it actually take to put fiberglass swimming pools in vs. vinyl lined swimming pools?
A competent fiberglass swimming pool installation company or swimming pool contractor can put average sized fiberglass swimming pools in (including concrete) in about 7-10 days. Average vinyl lined swimming pools will start at about 2 weeks for installation. The reality of this: fiberglass swimming pools intrude on your life and your home for a very short period of time, while a vinyl lined swimming pool installation intrudes on your life for weeks.
When people are fully educated and given the option between fiberglass pools and vinyl in ground pools do people typically choose a fiberglass swimming pool?
Almost always. An educated consumer is the best consumer and these people want fiberglass pools. These people know what they want and realize that you get what you pay for. We have all heard the horror stories, these stories are typically told by those who did not do their homework.
Beyond the obvious costs of replacing the liner in vinyl lined pools why have I heard that fiberglass pools are less expensive to operate and maintain?
This has to do with the porosity of the material used in the pool. The Gel Coat used is a very nonporous and hard material. Vinyl is more porous than Gel Coat and Concrete is the most porous material of the three. One of the biggest problems faced by homeowners and their pool is algae.
Like a garden weed, algae needs a place to put its roots. Once algae has rooted in your vinyl liner it is very difficult to fully eradicate. To prevent algae from rooting in a vinyl liner it is common practice to constantly barrage the pool with chemical treatments. It is also common to see a filtration system operating much more frequently and for longer durations.
More chemicals (approximately 50% more) and more electricity for your pump and filter means more dollars spent on regular maintenance.
I have heard that fiberglass swimming pools crack. Is this true?
Again this is a myth propagated primarily by the competitors of fiberglass swimming pools. The myth is intended to scare people away from making an intelligent decision. Properly installed fiberglass swimming pools will NEVER crack under any circumstance. (We offer a full Lifetime warranty against the fiberglass pool shell cracking)
Do I need a fence? If so, where do I want it to go?
Things to consider: Owners Association requirements, zoning requirements, can I tie into my neighbors fence?
How do I intend to use my pool and how many people will be in it?
Things to consider: Exercise, entertainment, relaxing, games, secret getaway…
How do I want to connect my existing space (if any) to the new pool space?
Things to consider: Outdoor eating, grilling area, sun tanning area, shade area, how much decking is needed?
How much space do I have to work with? What am I going to work around?
Things to consider: Lot size, easements, utilities, trees, swing sets…
What control systems do I want on my pool?
Things to consider: Automatic cover, salt chlorinations, heater, automatic cleaner, water features, automation.
What features do I want in my pool?
Things to consider: Built in steps, built in seating, swim lane, lighting, deep end…
What is my budget?
Things to consider: what can I afford today, can the project be phased into smaller pieces, is initial price or ownership cost and durability more important?
What is my time frame?
Things to consider: Is there a party or event that I would like my project to be completed for?
Can I build sooner than later and avoid a rush or weather?
Where do I want my new pool?
Things to consider: privacy from front and neighbors, vantage point from inside the house, sun exposure, space needed for new outdoor living items, traffic flow in and out of the house.
If you’re a Barrier Reef Pool owner you can view the pool care guide, register your pool and view your warranty in our Support section