Inground swimming pools have become a staple in backyards across Canada, with over 2,700 residential permits issued in just the first four months of 2024 alone. As more homeowners invest in their own personal oasis, questions naturally arise about long-term durability. Many homeowners hesitate over fiberglass pool installation, unsure how it holds up over time, wondering “do fiberglass pools crack?”
At Okeanos Pools GTA, we’ve worked with fiberglass pools long enough to know exactly where those concerns come from, and more importantly, how to prevent them. We use fiberglass shells built for structural integrity, and our installations are led by experienced builders who treat every site with care and precision.
Fiberglass pools are engineered to resist wear and tear better than most materials. It’s true that they are more durable and demand less pool maintenance than other pool shells, but under specific circumstances, cracks can appear.
Understanding Fiberglass Pool Repairs and Long-Term Costs
Beyond the initial investment, fiberglass pools offer substantial savings in maintenance. Their non-porous gel coat surface resists algae growth and chemical absorption and makes it so there’s less of a need for frequent cleaning or chemical corrections.
Routine maintenance like keeping water chemistry balanced and scheduling regular inspections remains important, but the effort is far less intensive than what’s required for concrete pools.
A proper installation process helps prevent damage from groundwater pressure, settled plumbing, or downward pressure from the surrounding area, all of which can lead to pool walls bulging or further damage if neglected.
What Causes and Prevents Fiberglass Pool Cracks
Cracks in fiberglass pools are most often the result of improper installation with uneven support beneath the shell or loosely compacted backfill can create stress points over time that grow into spider cracks along your fiberglass pool walls or pool floor.
External forces like ground shifts and freeze-thaw cycles can add pressure, especially if drainage hasn’t been handled properly. Even draining a pool without the right precautions can cause structural imbalance.
The best defense is expert installation with a professional pool installer. At Okeanos Pools GTA, we account for soil conditions, pool sump drain systems, and hydrostatic pressure to protect the shell from day one. Maintaining proper water levels and using covers during the off-season all go a long way in preserving the pool’s structure and surface.
Fixes and Solutions for Cracked Fiberglass Pools
If you’re dealing with a crack, don’t panic. Many fiberglass pool cracks are localized and can be addressed with fiberglass pool repairs. Repairs may involve sanding down the damaged area, applying a fresh fiberglass cloth and epoxy resin, then refinishing the pool to restore the pool’s surface back to its smooth and seamless nature.
More significant damage, like bulging walls, may require professional reinforcement of the pool walls or floor to preserve the pool’s structural integrity. The sooner issues are identified, the easier they are to fix.
Get Expert Help from Okeanos Pools GTA
Fiberglass pools offer a major advantage when it comes to longevity and ease of care. But like any type of pool, they demand attention to detail during installation.
That’s where Okeanos GTA comes in with over 30 years of engineering expertise as the GTA’s professional fiberglass pool manufacturer. We deliver pools that look incredible and last for decades with gelcoat surfaces that keep your pool water algae free, and lets you enjoy your pool properly.
If you’re a fiberglass pool owner or planning a new build, contact us today to ensure your pool is installed correctly, and built to withstand everything the GTA climate can throw at it.
