05/13/2026
Understanding Fiberglass Pools:
Experience Matters:
• Many providers installing fiberglass pools receive just 1-week of training. A short certification course doesn't equate to expert-level installation.
• MCI Pools uses galvanized steel and grout concrete to build custom shapes and depth pools. With 25 plus years of proven reliability, all MCI -installed pools continue to perform decades after installation.
Customization Limitations:
• Fiberglass pools rely on fixed molds, severely limiting shape, size, and depth options.
• Our steel and concrete pools are fully customizable, allowing you to select virtually any size, shape, or depth, seating options, complemented by custom vinyl liners lasting an average of 12+ years.
Common Myths & Facts:
• Fiberglass Pools last a lifetime – Fact: Typically, last around 30 years. MCI Pools steel and concrete pools have a lifespan of 45+ years.
• Fiberglass Shells don't deteriorate – Fact: Fiberglass pools can fade, develop spider cracks, and suffer from chalking due to chemical imbalances.
• Fiberglass pools don't shift or bulge – Fact: Shifting and bulging can occur due to improper installation, and manufacturers often do not warranty against this issue.
• Dry wells protect a Fiberglass pool from shifting or popping out of the ground – Fact: For dry wells to work you need power. During extreme weather events the power typically goes out preventing the sump pump from coming on to drain the water from around the pool. Without a Generac you are at an extreme risk of pool shifting or popping. A Generac Installation typically costs around $15,000.
• Fiberglass Pools use fewer chemicals – Fact: Pool chemical use depends more on location (shade, trees, wind) than pool material. Chemical balancing is the same for all pool types.
• Vinyl Liners only last 5 years – Fact: Vinyl liners average 12+ years of reliable service based on our decades of experience.
• Fiberglass pools are ready in 3 to 4 days – Fact: MCI Pools' structure installation is also completed in about 3 to 4 days. Landscaping and city approvals are what affect project timelines, not the pool type.
Why MCI Pools Doesn't Install Fiberglass:
We do not build or install fiberglass pools because we have major concerns inherent in its structure and installation.
• Structural concerns are significant with fiberglass pools. Shifts, cracks, and bulging of pool walls in or out of the structure (especially noticeable on straight walled pools). Issues can occur at installation and/or within just a few years.
• We've seen homeowners face repair costs exceeding $100,000 due to fiberglass pool failures.
• MCI Pools has replaced such pools with our proven steel, grout concrete, and vinyl construction—delivering lasting, trouble-free performance for years afterward.
Before Choosing a Fiberglass Pool:
• Always request written warranty assurances from fiberglass pool providers covering shifts, cracks, or other structural failures.
• Without proper guarantees, repairs could mean additional unexpected expenses.
Spider Cracks:
Definition: Spider cracks in fiberglass pools are small, hairline cracks in the gelcoat, often caused by improper installation, shipping damage, stress on the pool shell, temperature fluctuations, or poor manufacturing. While they don't usually affect the pool's structural integrity, they can be unsightly.
Chalking:
Definition: Chalking in fiberglass pools refers to the formation of white, powdery residue on the surface due to factors like aggressive water chemistry, excessive chemical treatments and natural aging of the gel coat. The risks are due to potential health risks from inhaling or ingesting flakes, aesthetic impacts, and structural weakening of the gel coat.
Calcium Build:
Definition: Calcium buildup in fiberglass pools appears as a white or grayish, gritty layer, often more visible as water levels drop. It occurs due to imbalanced pH and calcium levels, leading to calcium carbonate (white, flaky scales) or calcium silicate (harder-to-remove stains). It poses concerns for pool aesthetics, maintenance difficulty, and water quality issues.
