Fibreglass vs. Concrete Pool Repairs

Fibreglass vs. Concrete Pool Repairs: What You Need to Know

When your swimming pool starts to show cracks, stains, or leaks, it’s time to think seriously about pool repairs. But before jumping in, one big question arises: Is your pool made of fibreglass or concrete—and what does that mean for the repair process?

At Northern Pool Services, we’ve helped hundreds of Gauteng homeowners repair and renovate both concrete and fibreglass pools. In this article, we’ll break down the main differences between fibreglass and concrete pool repairs, including costs, durability, maintenance, and turnaround times—so you can make an informed decision.

What’s the Difference Between Fibreglass and Concrete Pools?

• Fibreglass pools are pre-manufactured shells made of reinforced plastic. They’re lowered into a prepared excavation and require minimal on-site construction.
• Concrete pools, on the other hand, are built on-site using steel-reinforced concrete or gunite. They’re highly customizable but involve more work upfront.

Each material has its pros and cons—especially when it comes to repairs and resurfacing.

Common Repair Issues by Pool Type

Concrete Pools:

• Cracks in plaster or shell
• Surface roughness and staining
• Water loss due to structural cracks
• Tile damage

Fibreglass Pools:

• Blisters or “osmotic bubbles” in the gel coat
• Fading or chalking colour
• Spider cracks in the surface
• Delamination (layers separating)

Repair Process Comparison

Concrete Pool Repairs

Repairs can be labour-intensive but allow for customisation and reshaping. The most common solution is marbelite resurfacing, which involves:

1. Draining the pool
2. Acid washing or chipping off the old surface
3. Applying a new marbelite coat
4. Curing and refilling

Timeframe: 7–14 days depending on the extent of damage.

Fibreglass Pool Repairs

Repairs focus on surface restoration using gel coat or resin:

1. Sanding down damaged areas
2. Patching with fibreglass and resin
3. Re-coating with colour-matched gel
4. Polishing and curing

Timeframe: 2–5 days, usually faster and less disruptive.

Durability and Longevity

• Concrete repairs (like marbelite or epoxy resurfacing) can last 8–15 years, but the surface may become rough over time and is prone to algae buildup.
• Fibreglass repairs, when done correctly, offer a smooth, non-porous surface that resists staining and algae and typically lasts 10–20 years with less maintenance.

Maintenance After Repairs

After repair, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Concrete pools require more chemical balancing and brushing to prevent algae.
• Fibreglass pools are easier to maintain due to their smooth finish and lower chemical absorption.

Using a trusted pool service like Northern Pool Services ensures post-repair maintenance is handled correctly for either surface type.

Which Repair Option Is Right for You?

Still unsure? We’ll inspect your pool and offer honest, practical recommendations based on your specific damage, budget, and long-term plans.

Pool Repairs in Gauteng? Trust Northern Pool Services

We’re not just another pool company—we’re your local pool repair specialists in Gauteng, offering expert advice, high-quality workmanship, and transparent pricing. Whether you have a fibreglass or concrete pool, our team is ready to restore it to like-new condition.

Contact us today at www.northernpoolservices.co.za to book your free pool repair consultation.