If you’ve been researching fiberglass pools, there’s a good chance you’ve come across a few things online that made you stop and think.
That’s pretty normal. When you’re making a big decision like this, you’re going to run into a wide range of opinions, and they don’t always tell the full story.
While fiberglass pools aren’t the perfect fit for everyone, a lot of what you’ll see out there doesn’t always reflect how they actually perform today.
That’s where this article comes in. We'll walk through some of the most common misconceptions so you can get a clearer, more accurate picture of what to expect, and feel confident as you continue your search.
Let’s take a look at the ones we hear most often.
What are the most common myths about fiberglass pools?
- Fiberglass pools float or pop up.
- Fiberglass pools look cheap.
- Fiberglass pools only work in warm climates.
- Fiberglass pools are much more expensive than vinyl liner pools.
- Fiberglass pools cannot be customized.
Myth 1: Fiberglass Pools Float or Pop Up
One of the biggest myths surrounding fiberglass pools is that they can float or pop up. While there’s a small amount of truth behind where this idea comes from, it is not something that a pool owner should worry about.
Any watertight structure can shift if there’s enough groundwater underneath it and it’s empty. That’s usually where these stories come from, pools that were left empty or not properly maintained.
In areas where groundwater is a concern, installers use systems like a sump to manage water beneath the pool. Just as important, you don’t want to ever drain your pool, the weight of the water helps keep it securely in place
With proper installation and regular maintenance, this typically isn't something homeowners run into.
Myth 2: Fiberglass Pools Look Cheap
Another common concern people have about fiberglass pools is how they look.
This myth dates back to when fiberglass pools were relatively new on the market and didn’t offer many design options. Compared to what was available at the time, they felt more basic in appearance.
However, since that time, advancements and changes have been made.
Today’s fiberglass pools offer a much more polished and updated look than many people expect. For many homeowners, they can feel just as inviting and well-finished as other inground pool options.
Myth 3: Fiberglass Pools Cannot Be Customized
Another common misconception is that fiberglass pools can’t be customized.
There’s a small piece of truth here. Fiberglass pool shapes and sizes are pre-made, so you won’t have the same level of flexibility as a fully custom concrete pool.
But that doesn’t mean your options are limited.
Today’s fiberglass pools offer a wide range of ways to personalize your space, from built-in features like tanning ledges and seating areas to choices in color, tile, patio and coping, and surrounding design elements.
In other words, while you’re choosing from predesigned fiberglass pool shapes, you still have plenty of flexibility in how your pool looks, feels, and functions in your backyard.
For many homeowners, that balance, structure with room to personalize, is what makes fiberglass pools such an appealing option.
With multiple sizes and features to choose from, pricing can vary. Want a clearer idea of what your pool might cost? Try our Design and Price tool below.
Myth 4: Fiberglass Pools Only Work in Warm Climates
If you live in a cold weather climate, you may hear myths that fiberglass pools do not work well in cold weather, only in warm weather climates.
The concern usually comes down to this idea: if the water freezes, it could expand and damage the pool shell.
But that’s not actually how it works.
When water freezes, it expands upward, not outward. That means it doesn’t push against the sides of the pool in a way that would cause it to crack. It’s similar to how ice forms in a tray, it rises slightly instead of expanding sideways.
Because of this, fiberglass pools can perform well in both warm and cold climates.
That said, proper winterization is important. Like any inground pool, the plumbing needs to be prepared for freezing temperatures by removing water from the lines to prevent damage.
When that’s done correctly, fiberglass pools can be a reliable option in a wide range of climates.
Myth 5: Fiberglass Pools Are Much More Expensive than Vinyl Liner Pools
When it comes to cost, this is one of the most common concerns homeowners have.
And to be fair, vinyl liner pools are typically the more affordable option upfront when compared to fiberglass pools.
But that’s only part of the picture.
While fiberglass pools often come with a higher initial investment, the long-term costs can look very different. Fiberglass pools are known for being lower maintenance, which can mean fewer chemicals, less cleaning, and fewer repairs over time.
Vinyl liner pools, on the other hand, require liner replacements about every seven years, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.
When you step back and look beyond just the upfront price, many homeowners find that fiberglass pools can be a more cost-effective option over time.
So, what’s the truth about fiberglass pools?
By now, you’ve probably noticed that a lot of what people say about fiberglass pools just doesn’t hold up when you look a little closer.
The truth is, many of these concerns come from outdated information or situations where a pool wasn’t installed or maintained properly. When that happens, problems can occur, but that’s not unique to fiberglass pools. It’s true for any type of inground pool.
What we see today is that fiberglass pools have come a long way. They offer a combination of durability, lower maintenance, and design options that make them a great fit for many backyard pools.
Of course, no pool type is perfect for every homeowner. The right choice comes down to your space, your budget, and what matters most to you and your family.
That’s why taking the time to understand the facts, rather than the myths, can make all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fiberglass pools float or pop up?
Not if they’re installed and maintained properly. Keeping the pool filled and using proper installation methods prevents this issue.
Do fiberglass pools work in cold climates?
Yes. They perform well in both warm and cold climates, as freezing water expands upward, not against the pool walls.
Are fiberglass pools more expensive than vinyl liner pools?
Not always. While upfront costs can be similar, fiberglass pools often cost less over time due to lower maintenance and repairs.
Are fiberglass pools limited when it comes to customization?
Fiberglass pools do come in pre-set shapes and sizes, but there are still plenty of ways to customize them. Features like tanning ledges, water features, tile, coping, and color options allow you to create a backyard pool that fits your style and needs.
About the Author
There’s a lot of information out there about fiberglass pools, and not all of it is accurate. Many homeowners come across these same myths while trying to decide which type of inground pool is right for their backyard.
I’m Marcus Sheridan, co-founder of River Pools® Virginia, and for more than 20 years, I’ve worked with homeowners comparing pool options and sorting through these exact concerns.
I wrote this article to help clear up some of the most common misconceptions about fiberglass pools so you can make a confident, informed decision.
From the Manufacturer
At River Pools, we regularly work with homeowners who are trying to sort through the many opinions and misconceptions surrounding fiberglass pools. It’s common for people to come across conflicting information as they compare different types of inground pools.
Resources like this are designed to give you clear, straightforward information so you can better understand your options and make a confident decision for your backyard.
If you’re considering a fiberglass pool and want to explore what it could look like in your space, the next step is connecting with a trusted, independently owned and operated installer in your area. They can help evaluate your yard, walk through design options, and guide you through the process.
Ready to start the conversation?
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