If you’re planning to build a swimming pool in Brevard County, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing between a concrete (gunite) pool and a fiberglass pool.
In our latest video, Steven, a State-Certified Swimming Pool Contractor with over 15 years of experience building pools in Central Florida, breaks down the real differences between these two pool types — including cost, design flexibility, durability, heating efficiency, and long-term value.
If you’re searching for the best pool builder in Brevard County or trying to decide which pool type makes the most sense for your home, this guide will walk you through the key points.
Concrete Pools: The Custom, Long-Term Investment
Concrete pools (also called gunite pools) are the gold standard for homeowners who want flexibility, durability, and long-term value.
Fully Custom Design for Your Property
Unlike fiberglass pools, which come in pre-made molds, concrete pools are completely customizable.
That means:
- Freeform designs
- Geometric layouts
- Pools built around L-shaped homes
- Custom tanning ledges, spas, and water features
- Exact sizing to maximize your yard
If your property has unique dimensions or you want a pool that truly fits your home’s architecture, concrete gives you total design freedom. You’re not choosing from a catalog — you’re building something made specifically for your backyard.
2. Long-Term Durability & Structural Strength
Concrete pools are typically 6–12 inches thick, creating a structurally strong shell built to last decades.
In Florida soil conditions — where movement can occur — that strength matters. Concrete pools do not rely on thin shells, plastic fittings, or flexible plumbing systems that may degrade over time.
When built properly, a concrete pool is widely considered the most durable residential pool option available.
3. Better Heat Retention
In Central Florida, many homeowners add pool heaters to extend their swimming season.
Concrete acts as a natural insulator. While it may take slightly longer to heat initially, once warm, it maintains temperature efficiently.
Because fiberglass shells are thinner, heat dissipates faster, meaning the heater may run more frequently to maintain temperature.
Over time, this can impact operating costs.
Fiberglass Pools: Faster Installation, Lower Quality, Limited Flexibility
Fiberglass pools have been popular for years, especially because they were once considered a more budget-friendly option. However, the gap between fiberglass and concrete pricing has narrowed significantly.
Here’s what homeowners should understand.
1. Limited Design Options
Fiberglass pools are manufactured using molds. That means you select from a limited number of shapes and sizes.
If the manufacturer offers six designs, you choose one of those six — that’s it.
For homeowners who want a simple, straightforward design and faster installation, this may work. But if you want something tailored to your yard, the limitations can be significant.
2. Plumbing & Structural Concerns
Fiberglass pools typically use:
- Flexible plumbing lines
- Plastic bulkhead fittings
Over time, flexible plumbing can swell, kink, or deteriorate underground. Plastic fittings exposed to water chemistry and soil movement can weaken and fail.
If a fitting fails, repairs often require cutting into the deck and accessing the shell connection — which can become costly.
While not every fiberglass pool will experience these issues, they are factors homeowners should consider when thinking long-term.
3. Faster Installation
One advantage of fiberglass pools is installation speed.
Because the shell arrives pre-formed and is set into place, construction time can be shorter compared to a fully formed concrete pool.
If timing is your top priority, this may appeal to you. However, the time savings is typically a matter of weeks — not months.
What About Cost?
Twenty years ago, fiberglass pools were clearly the cheaper option.
Today, that price difference is much smaller.
The cost of fiberglass shells has increased significantly, often bringing them within a few thousand dollars of a comparable concrete pool in Brevard County.
So the real question becomes:
If the price is similar, does the faster installation outweigh the long-term customization and durability benefits of concrete?
For many homeowners, the answer is no.
Final Takeaway for Brevard County Homeowners
If you are building a pool in Brevard County, you’re making a long-term investment in your property.
Here’s the main takeaway:
- Fiberglass pools offer faster installation and simplicity.
- Concrete pools offer full customization, structural durability, and long-term value.
- The price difference today is often minimal.
- The extra build time for concrete is typically worth it for a higher-quality product.
If you’re not in a rush and want a pool built specifically for your home — one designed to last — a custom concrete pool is often the better investment.
Looking for a Pool Builder in Brevard County?
Aquatic Pools has been serving Brevard County for over 15 years as a state-certified swimming pool contractor. We specialize in custom concrete pool construction designed specifically for Florida homes and soil conditions.
If you’re planning a new pool in:
- Melbourne
- Viera
- Palm Bay
- Merritt Island
- Cocoa
- Satellite Beach
- Anywhere in Brevard County
We’d be happy to walk you through your options and help you make the right decision for your home.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.