Mike Holmes' Take On Whether Fiberglass Pools Are Right For Your Home

Choosing the right material for your swimming pool isn't all fun and games. Mike Holmes, expert contractor and host of HGTV's "Holmes on Homes," is always on the hunt for materials that offer optimal longevity. If you're currently designing the perfect pool for your backyard, Holmes has some key advice. On the Holmes on Homes podcast, via Facebook, he suggested that a fiberglass pool, "made with the right products, will be the best pool anyone could order." He specifically refers to their ability to withstand extreme frost and heat.

Holmes discussed the components that make up the fiberglass pool material, including Kevlar, carbon fiber, and ballistic fiber, stating, "So you're talking about three of the strongest products out there, mixed together to make one hell of a pool." He also explored how traditional vinyl or concrete pools will need ongoing maintenance or repairs, admitting that his own pool has had to have the liner replaced on multiple occasions. By comparison, fiberglass pools won't need to be repaired or repainted, with their entire structure holding up for a lifetime. Holmes wrote on Facebook, "These pools are not only made of durable material, but you can use them all year long — yes, even in the winter by turning it into a skating rink. I just love it." If your goal is less ongoing labor and little to no need for resurfacing, fiberglass is an excellent, Holmes-approved option.

For a detailed breakdown on all of the top materials, these are the top 5 inground pools compared. Beyond fiberglass, concrete is a popular alternative. In fact, Holmes has a concrete pool in his own home. The major pro of concrete is that it can be made into practically any shape, whereas fiberglass isn't as suitable if you want an entirely custom design. However, concrete is much more porous, which means it can harbor bacteria if it is not sealed and cleaned properly. Holmes also admitted that fiberglass is more durable, and he wrote on his blog that fiberglass pools "have lower overall maintenance and costs."

Ceramic tiles are an affordable alternative, but they can require repairs due to chips and cracks. Grout also means unnecessary upkeep, and it isn't ideal if you want something hassle-free — like fiberglass. In addition to crowning fiberglass as the most low-maintenance option, Holmes labeled the material as "all-season." Most importantly, if longevity is your priority, fiberglass pools can last 25 to 30 years. Before making your final selection, review the complete pros and cons of fiberglass pools.