When planning your dream swimming pool, one of the biggest decisions is choosing the right material. For most Houston homeowners, the choice comes down to fiberglass vs concrete pools. Both options have unique benefits, but the right choice depends on your budget, backyard layout, and long-term goals.
At Rhino Pool Pros, we’ve built countless custom pools across Houston. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of fiberglass and concrete pools—covering cost, durability, design, maintenance, and installation—so you can confidently choose the best fit for your home.
For a complete overview, explore our Guide to Custom Pool Construction.
Fiberglass vs Concrete Pools: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Fiberglass Pools | Concrete Pools |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Time | 2–4 weeks | 8–12+ weeks |
| Cost Range | $$$ | $$$$$ |
| Design Flexibility | Limited shapes | Fully custom |
| Durability | 25+ years | 50+ years |
| Maintenance Needs | Low | Higher |
| Surface Feel | Smooth gelcoat | Plaster/pebble |
What Are Fiberglass Pools?
Fiberglass pools are factory-molded shells delivered to your backyard and installed in-ground. They are popular because:
Installation takes just 2–4 weeks, making them one of the fastest pool options.
The smooth gelcoat finish naturally resists algae, lowering chemical use and cleaning time.
They require less maintenance, making them budget-friendly over time.
While fiberglass pools are limited to pre-designed shapes, they still fit beautifully into smaller yards. For inspiration, check out how to design a pool for small yards.
What Are Concrete Pools?
Concrete (gunite) pools are custom-built on-site, giving homeowners complete freedom in design.
Benefits include:
Endless customization for shape, depth, and size.
Durability that often lasts 50+ years with proper maintenance.
Options for luxury upgrades like spas, tanning ledges, and infinity edges.
Concrete pools take longer to build—usually 8–12 weeks—but deliver truly one-of-a-kind backyard experiences. To learn how this works, see our in-ground pool construction process.
Installation Timeline: Which Is Faster?
The installation timeline is one of the biggest deciding factors in fiberglass vs concrete pools.
Fiberglass Pools: Installation can be completed within a month since the shell is pre-made and dropped into place.
Concrete Pools: Construction is fully customized, requiring excavation, gunite spraying, curing, and finishing, which typically takes 2–3 months.
If you’re eager to swim this season, fiberglass may be the better choice. If you’re investing in a long-term luxury backyard, concrete may be worth the wait. For details, review the custom pool construction timeline.
Cost Comparison: Fiberglass vs Concrete Pools
Pool cost is a major factor for Houston homeowners.
Fiberglass Pools: More affordable upfront and economical over time due to lower chemical and maintenance costs.
Concrete Pools: Higher initial investment plus ongoing expenses for resurfacing every 10–15 years and regular cleaning.
Want a breakdown? See our full guide on the cost of building a pool in Houston.
Maintenance & Longevity
Both options last decades, but maintenance differs greatly.
Fiberglass Pools: Smooth, nonporous shells resist algae, which means less brushing, fewer chemicals, and lower costs.
Concrete Pools: Plaster or pebble surfaces are more porous, needing frequent brushing, chemical balancing, and resurfacing.
Fiberglass is lower-maintenance, while concrete provides longevity and durability if properly cared for.
Design Flexibility & Aesthetic Options
Here’s where concrete shines.
Fiberglass Pools: Limited to manufacturer molds but can still look stylish with modern pool designs, custom decking, and LED lighting.
Concrete Pools: Fully customizable in shape, size, and depth with luxury add-ons like waterfalls, spas, or vanishing edges.
If you want a unique design or statement pool, concrete is the clear winner.
Durability in the Texas Climate
Houston’s soil conditions and hot summers put pools to the test.
Fiberglass Pools: Flexibility allows them to withstand ground movement, reducing the chance of cracks.
Concrete Pools: Extremely durable but more rigid, meaning they require expert engineering to prevent shifting or cracking.
Both hold up well, but fiberglass often adapts better to Texas soils.
Which Pool Type Is Right for You?
Choose Fiberglass if you want:
✅ Faster installation
✅ Lower maintenance costs
✅ Smooth, algae-resistant surface
✅ A more cost-effective pool
Choose Concrete if you want:
✅ Fully customized design
✅ Long-lasting durability
✅ Luxury features like spas & waterfalls
✅ A one-of-a-kind backyard centerpiece
Rhino Pool Pro's
Start Your Pool Journey Today
Ready to make a splash? Contact us for a free consultation and see how Rhino Pool Pro’s can transform your outdoor space into something extraordinary.
Why Choose Rhino Pool Pros in Houston
At Rhino Pool Pros, we help Houston homeowners build pools that match their lifestyle. Whether you choose fiberglass or concrete, our expertise ensures a flawless build from design to dive.
👉 Our Services Include:
Ready to Build Your Dream Pool?
Choosing between fiberglass and concrete doesn’t have to be stressful. The team at Rhino Pool Pros will walk you through every step—from design to cost to installation—so you can make the right choice for your family.
FAQs About Fiberglass vs Concrete Pools
Fiberglass pools typically cost less upfront and have lower long-term expenses. Concrete pools require more investment but offer unlimited customization possibilities.
No. Fiberglass is flexible, making it better suited for soil movement compared to rigid concrete. With proper installation, cracks are extremely rare.
Concrete pools can last over 50 years when well maintained. Resurfacing every 10–15 years keeps them strong, beautiful, and safe for daily use.
While shapes are limited to pre-designed molds, you can enhance fiberglass pools with custom decking, LED lighting, and water features for a stylish look.
Fiberglass pools require much less maintenance thanks to their smooth, algae-resistant surface. Concrete pools need more brushing, chemicals, and resurfacing.
