Fiberglass vs. Concrete: Latham & San Juan Lead the Way

When it comes to building the perfect pool, homeowners are faced with a crucial decision: fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl liner? While each has its place in the market, fiberglass pools—particularly from top-tier manufacturers like Latham and San Juan—stand out as the superior option for durability, beauty, and long-term value.

Let’s dive into why Latham and San Juan fiberglass pools outperform the rest.

1. Superior Strength and Durability

Latham and San Juan are industry pioneers, known for their use of high-grade resins and multi-layered construction that ensure exceptional durability. Unlike concrete pools, which can develop cracks over time due to soil shifts and weather conditions, fiberglass pools offer a flexible yet resilient shell that withstands ground movement without compromising structural integrity.

San Juan, in particular, was the first fiberglass pool manufacturer in the U.S., with a reputation for engineering pools that last decades—often 50+ years—with minimal maintenance.

2. Low Maintenance = Long-Term Savings

Concrete pools are porous and require frequent acid washing, resurfacing, and higher chemical usage. In contrast, the gelcoat surface of Latham and San Juan fiberglass pools is non-porous, meaning:

• Fewer algae problems
• Reduced chemical usage
• Less brushing and vacuuming
• Lower electricity bills due to shorter filtration cycles

Over time, this adds up to thousands in savings.

3. Faster Installation Time

Time is money—and when you choose a Latham or San Juan fiberglass pool, you’re not waiting months for a backyard transformation. These pools arrive pre-manufactured and ready for installation, allowing professional crews to complete most projects in as little as 1-3 weeks, compared to 3-6 months for concrete pools.

This quick turnaround means less disruption to your property and lifestyle.

4. Consistent, Factory-Controlled Quality

One major benefit of fiberglass pools is that they’re built in controlled factory environments, not poured or constructed onsite like concrete pools. This means every Latham and San Juan pool is subject to strict quality standards, ensuring uniform wall thickness, flawless finishes, and built-in structural reinforcement.

You get the exact pool you chose—no surprises, no inconsistent workmanship.

5. Sleek, Modern Designs and Integrated Features

Latham and San Juan offer an impressive array of modern, elegant designs with integrated features like:

• Built-in tanning ledges
• Spillover spas
• Entry steps and seating
• LED lighting compatibility
• Auto-cover integration

Their smooth finishes and clean lines give your backyard a luxury resort feel, far beyond what’s possible with traditional concrete finishes.

6. Industry-Leading Warranties

Both Latham and San Juan back their products with industry-best warranties, including:

• Lifetime structural warranties
• 25+ year surface warranties

This is a level of confidence that most concrete pool builders simply can’t match.

7. Eco-Friendly and Family-Safe

Because of their lower chemical use, shorter filtration cycles, and efficient heat retention, fiberglass pools are more environmentally friendly. The smooth surface also makes them safer for children, minimizing scrapes and cuts compared to rough concrete surfaces.

Final Verdict: A Smarter Investment

While concrete pools offer flexibility in custom shapes, they come with higher costs, longer timelines, and more upkeep. On the other hand, fiberglass pools—especially from Latham and San Juan—deliver:

• Faster installation
• Lower maintenance
• Timeless aesthetics
• Exceptional strength and longevity
• And better return on investment

For homeowners who want a stress-free, elegant, and long-lasting pool, Latham and San Juan fiberglass pools are clearly the better choice.

Thinking about installing a fiberglass pool? Contact us today and discover how you can transform your outdoor space with the best in the business.