Gunite or Fiberglass? How Georgia's Weather Affects Your Choice
Your pool contractor just handed you quotes for both gunite and fiberglass. The prices are similar. The pictures look beautiful. And now you're supposed to make a $70,000 decision based on... what, exactly?
Here's what most pool companies won't tell you: the "best" pool material isn't the same in Georgia as it is in Arizona, Minnesota, or California. Our red clay soil, relentless humidity, and temperature swings create specific challenges that make one material objectively better for certain situations.
After building custom pools across Atlanta, Kennesaw, and Marietta for many years, we've seen how both materials perform in Georgia's real-world conditions—not laboratory settings or manufacturer marketing materials. Let's talk about what actually matters for your backyard.
The Short Answer (Then We'll Explain Why)
For most Georgia homeowners, Gunite offers better long-term value despite higher maintenance. For specific situations: Fiberglass makes perfect sense and saves you money.
The key is understanding which category you're in. That's what this guide will help you figure out.
Why Georgia Makes This Decision Different
The Red Clay Factor
Northern Georgia's famous red clay isn't just Instagram-worthy—it's one of the most challenging soil types for pool construction in the United States.
What makes clay soil problematic:
Absorbs massive amounts of water (up to 50% of its volume)
Expands significantly when wet (up to 10% volumetric change)
Shrinks dramatically when dry
Creates enormous pressure on pool shells
Shifts with seasonal moisture changes
This isn't theoretical. We've excavated hundreds of pools in Cobb County. When you hit clay 4-6 feet down, your installation approach has to change completely.
How this affects your material choice:
Gunite (Concrete):
Rigid structure resists clay pressure when properly reinforced
Steel rebar framework provides the necessary structural support
Can be over-engineered for expansive clay conditions
Has survived 50+ years in Georgia red clay (proven track record)
Fiberglass:
Flexible shell absorbs soil movement better than you'd expect
Modern designs specifically account for clay expansion
Geo-anchoring systems prevent floating or shifting
Requires expert installation in clay (not all builders know how)
The truth? Both can work in Georgia clay. But installation quality matters 10x more with fiberglass—one mistake and you're looking at warping, cracking, or floating.
Humidity: The Algae Multiplier
Atlanta averages 70-75% humidity from May through September. During morning hours, we regularly hit 85-90%. For context, that's higher than Miami.
Why this matters for pool materials:
Gunite pools:
Porous surface provides microscopic pockets for algae
Requires weekly brushing during humid months
Chemical demand is 30-40% higher than for smooth surfaces
Plaster finish needs acid washing every 3-5 years in our climate
Resurfacing every 12-15 years (humidity accelerates deterioration)
Fiberglass pools:
Non-porous gel coat resists algae naturally
Smooth surface prevents attachment points
Chemical costs are 50-70% lower annually
Surface doesn't degrade from humidity
No resurfacing needed for 25+ years
We track chemical costs across our maintenance clients. Gunite pools in Atlanta average $850-1,200 annually in chemicals. Comparable fiberglass pools? $300-500.
That's $6,000-10,500 savings over 15 years. Suddenly, that $5,000-8,000 higher initial gunite cost looks different.
Temperature Swings: Georgia's Hidden Challenge
Atlanta isn't "cold" by northern standards, but our winter temperature swings are brutal on pools.
Typical January week in Atlanta:
Monday high: 58°F
Wednesday low: 22°F
Friday high: 51°F
Sunday low: 27°F
That's multiple freeze-thaw cycles weekly. Your pool experiences constant expansion and contraction.
How materials respond:
Gunite:
Concrete naturally expands/contracts with temperature
Hairline cracks are normal and expected
Major cracks indicate installation or reinforcement problems
Plaster surface shows freeze damage faster than the structure
Proper winterization is critical
Fiberglass:
Flexible resin absorbs temperature changes
Significantly less prone to crack from freeze-thaw
Gel coat resists cold damage better than plaster
Still requires winterization but less vulnerable
In 20 years, we've repaired hundreds of gunite cracks caused by improper winter preparation. We've repaired maybe a dozen fiberglass shells for temperature-related issues—and most were installation defects, not material failure.
Not Sure Which Material Fits Your Property?
We'll assess your soil conditions, lot characteristics, and usage plans to recommend the material that makes sense for YOUR situation—not what's easiest for us to build.
Free site evaluation: (678) 528-4521
The Real Cost Comparison (15-Year Ownership)
Let's look at what you'll actually spend owning each type of pool in Georgia over 15 years.
Gunite Pool: Total Cost of Ownership
Initial Installation: $75,000
Base construction: $68,000
Clay soil reinforcement: $4,500
Premium plaster finish: $2,500
Ongoing Maintenance (Annual):
Chemicals: $1,000
Weekly service (8 months): $1,400
Filter cleaning: $200
Equipment repairs (average): $350
Annual total: $2,950
Major Expenses:
Year 8: Acid wash and minor plaster repair: $1,500
Year 12: Full resurfacing: $8,500
Year 15: Equipment replacement: $3,500
15-Year Total: $75,000 + $44,250 + $13,500 = $132,750
Fiberglass Pool: Total Cost of Ownership
Initial Installation: $70,000
Shell and delivery: $45,000
Installation with clay-specific prep: $18,000
Decking and finishing: $7,000
Ongoing Maintenance (Annual):
Chemicals: $450
Weekly service (8 months): $1,200
Filter cleaning: $150
Equipment repairs (average): $350
Annual total: $2,150
Major Expenses:
Year 7: Gel coat spot repair: $800
Year 15: Equipment replacement: $3,500
15-Year Total: $70,000 + $32,250 + $4,300 = $106,550
Savings with fiberglass: $26,200 over 15 years
But here's the critical caveat: this assumes proper installation by experienced builders. A botched fiberglass install can cost $15,000-30,000 to fix. Gunite has more room for error during installation.
When Gunite Is the Right Choice
You Want Complete Design Freedom
Gunite's superpower is customization. You can build literally anything:
Custom shapes (kidney, freeform, geometric, curves)
Variable depths (beach entries to 9-foot deep ends)
Built-in features (benches, tables, tanning ledges at any location)
Infinity edges and vanishing edges
Integrated spas at any position
Rock formations and grottos
Custom steps and entry points
Fiberglass comes in pre-designed shapes. While manufacturers offer 50-100 models, you're still choosing from a catalog, not creating from scratch.
Who needs this level of customization?
Unique lot shapes or challenging terrain
Specific athletic requirements (lap pools, diving pools)
Architectural integration with home design
Resort-style features like swim-up bars or grottos
Properties where the pool is the focal point
Most of our Kennesaw clients building $100,000+ pool projects choose gunite because they want features fiberglass can't provide.
Your Lot Has Difficult Access
If the equipment can't easily reach your backyard, installation methods matter.
Gunite advantages:
Built on-site using concrete spray equipment
Materials can be hand-carried if necessary
Truck access only needed for excavation and concrete
Can work around obstacles and tight spaces
Fiberglass challenges:
Shell arrives on a large truck
Needs crane access for placement
Shell is 14-16 feet wide (won't fit through narrow gates)
Limited maneuvering once delivered
We've built gunite pools accessed through 4-foot side yards. We can't physically deliver a fiberglass shell through that space.
If you have:
Limited street access
Narrow side yards (<10 feet)
Power lines preventing crane access
Mature trees blocking delivery paths
HOA restrictions on delivery times/equipment
Gunite might be your only realistic option.
You're Building an Investment Property
For rental properties or homes you'll sell within 10 years, gunite offers advantages:
Perceived value:
Buyers associate gunite with "custom" and "luxury"
Higher-end homes typically have gunite pools
Better architectural integration
More impressive in listing photos
Resale data:
Homes with gunite pools average 2-3% higher sale prices (in $500k+ market)
Premium finishes (pebble, tile) command better returns
Custom features add measurable value
Appraisers value gunite higher for comparable properties
If you're building to sell, the $5,000-8,000 extra gunite costs returns $8,000-15,000 in sale price in Atlanta's luxury market.
You Plan to Expand or Renovate
Gunite pools can be modified. Fiberglass pools cannot.
Future changes possible with gunite:
Add or relocate spa
Expand pool size
Change depth
Add beach entry
Install new features (bubblers, jets, lighting)
Complete redesign while keeping structure
Not possible with fiberglass:
Can't change shell shape
Can't modify depth
Limited retrofit options
Major changes require replacement
If there's any chance you'll want to expand or significantly change your pool in 10-15 years, gunite preserves that option. Fiberglass locks you into the original design permanently.
💡 Georgia Insider Tip
Clay soil installation timing matters. The best time to install ANY pool in Georgia clay is late summer/early fall when soil moisture is lowest and most stable. Spring installations in saturated clay have 3x higher risk of settling or shifting issues. We always recommend August-October construction in North Georgia.
When Fiberglass Is the Right Choice
You Want Low-Maintenance Pool Life
If you'd rather swim than scrub, fiberglass wins decisively in Georgia.
Maintenance comparison (weekly requirements):
Gunite:
Brush entire surface: 25-30 minutes
Vacuum floor and walls: 20-25 minutes
Chemical balancing: 15-20 minutes
Filter maintenance: 10 minutes
Total: 70-85 minutes weekly
Fiberglass:
Quick brush of steps/benches: 10 minutes
Vacuum (less debris sticks): 10-15 minutes
Chemical balancing (smaller adjustments): 10 minutes
Filter maintenance: 10 minutes
Total: 40-45 minutes weekly
Over a year, fiberglass saves you approximately 32 hours of maintenance time.
Your Timeline Is Tight
Installation speed matters if you have a deadline.
Gunite timeline:
Excavation: 3-5 days
Steel and plumbing: 3-4 days
Gunite application: 1 day
Curing period: 28 days (cannot be rushed)
Plaster: 1 day
Additional curing: 14 days
Startup: 3-7 days
Total: 8-12 weeks minimum
Fiberglass timeline:
Excavation: 2-3 days
Shell delivery and set: 1 day
Plumbing and backfill: 2-3 days
Decking preparation: 3-5 days
Startup: 2-3 days
Total: 2-3 weeks
If you're:
Moving into a new home and want the pool ready for summer
Planning around a specific event (graduation party, wedding)
Renovating and need pool finished before landscaping
Building in spring (weather delays affect gunite more)
Fiberglass's speed is a game-changer.
You Have Budget Constraints
While 15-year costs favor fiberglass, cash flow matters too.
Financing considerations:
Lower monthly payments with fiberglass:
$70,000 financed over 7 years at 8% = $1,087/month
$80,000 gunite financed same terms = $1,242/month
Monthly difference: $155
Plus lower ongoing costs mean your total monthly pool expense (payment + maintenance + chemicals) is $200-250 less with fiberglass.
If budget is tight, fiberglass gets you swimming sooner with lower monthly obligations.
Your Family Includes Young Children
Fiberglass offers safety and comfort advantages:
Smoother surface:
No rough plaster to scrape knees and elbows
Gentle on bare feet
Reduced injury risk from falls or slides
Warmer water:
Gel coat retains heat better than plaster
Water stays 3-5°F warmer in spring/fall
Extended swimming season without heating
Less harsh chemicals:
Lower chlorine levels needed
Gentler on skin and eyes
Better for kids with sensitivities
If you have children under 10, fiberglass creates a more kid-friendly environment.
🎯 Get Material Recommendations for Your Property
We'll evaluate your specific situation including:
- Soil testing results and clay content
- Lot access and delivery logistics
- Your actual usage patterns and priorities
- Long-term cost projections for both materials
- Maintenance commitment you're willing to make
Then we'll tell you honestly which makes sense: (678) 528-4521
The Hybrid Option: Modern Alternatives
Vinyl Liner Pools in Georgia
We rarely recommend vinyl for new construction in Georgia, but it deserves mention:
Advantages:
Lowest initial cost ($40,000-60,000)
Smooth, non-porous surface
Moderate maintenance requirements
Quick installation (4-6 weeks)
Georgia-specific disadvantages:
UV degradation from intense sun
Temperature extremes cause faster deterioration
Liner replacement every 7-10 years ($4,000-6,000)
Vulnerable to damage from clay soil pressure
Not suitable for all lot types
Vinyl works in Georgia but rarely beats fiberglass on total cost or longevity.
Emerging Materials
Composite pools:
Newer technology combining fiberglass benefits with custom design
Higher cost than traditional fiberglass
Limited installer availability in Georgia
Too new for long-term performance data
Polymer panels:
Modular system faster than gunite
More flexible than fiberglass shells
Emerging option but limited proven track record
We're watching these technologies but don't yet recommend them over proven gunite or fiberglass options for Georgia conditions.
Common Myths About Pool Materials in Georgia
Myth: "Fiberglass can't handle Georgia clay"
Reality: Modern fiberglass pools with proper installation handle clay excellently. The key is:
Adequate excavation and gravel base
Proper backfill material (not native clay)
Geo-anchoring systems
Expert installation by experienced builders
We've installed fiberglass pools in some of the worst clay soil in Cobb County. Zero structural failures when done correctly.
Myth: "Gunite always cracks in Georgia"
Reality: Hairline cracks are normal and cosmetic. Structural cracks indicate:
Inadequate steel reinforcement
Poor concrete mix
Improper curing
Installation errors
A properly built gunite pool in Georgia clay should last 50+ years without structural issues.
Myth: "Fiberglass looks cheap compared to gunite"
Reality: Modern fiberglass finishes rival high-end gunite:
Multiple gel coat colors and patterns
Aggregate and sparkle finishes
Tiled waterline options
LED lighting integration
Premium steps and benches
Side-by-side, most people can't identify which is which after installation is complete.
Myth: "You can't get a large pool in fiberglass"
Reality: Fiberglass shells are available up to 16' x 40'. That accommodates 95% of residential pool needs. The limitation is delivery, not manufacturing.
If your lot can't accept delivery due to access restrictions, that's different from "fiberglass can't be big enough."
Myth: "Gunite maintenance is worth it for longevity"
Reality: Both materials last 30-50+ years when properly maintained. Gunite requires resurfacing every 12-15 years ($8,000-12,000). Fiberglass typically needs only minor gel coat repairs.
The "longevity" argument for gunite is outdated. Modern fiberglass equals or exceeds gunite lifespan with less intervention.
Questions to Ask Your Pool Builder
Not all builders have equal experience with both materials. Ask:
About Fiberglass:
"How many fiberglass pools have you installed in Georgia clay soil specifically?"
"What's your process for clay soil preparation and backfilling?"
"Do you use geo-anchoring systems? What kind?"
"What's your warranty on shell integrity vs. installation issues?"
"How do you handle delivery logistics and crane requirements?"
"What happens if the shell is damaged during delivery or installation?"
About Gunite:
"What's your steel reinforcement schedule for Georgia clay?"
"How do you handle clay soil pressure during curing?"
"What finish options do you recommend for our humidity?"
"What's your typical resurfacing timeline for Atlanta-area pools?"
"How do you prevent common cracking issues in our soil?"
"What's included in your structural warranty?"
Red flag answers:
"Both materials are the same, it's just preference" (they're not)
"We only build [one type]" (limits honest recommendation)
"Installation doesn't vary by soil type" (absolutely does in Georgia)
Can't provide local references for the material you're considering
Dismisses soil testing as unnecessary
Learn more about choosing quality pool builders in Atlanta.
Making Your Decision
Here's a simple decision tree for Georgia homeowners:
Choose Gunite If:
✅ You want custom design features
✅ Access to your backyard is limited (< 10' width)
✅ You're building $100,000+ resort-style pool
✅ You might want to expand/modify in the future
✅ You're selling the home within 10 years (premium market)
✅ You don't mind higher maintenance requirements
Choose Fiberglass If:
✅ You prioritize low maintenance
✅ You need the pool completed quickly (< 4 weeks)
✅ You have budget constraints ($5,000-10,000 matters)
✅ You have young children
✅ You prefer DIY maintenance over hiring service
✅ Standard shapes fit your space and needs
Still Not Sure?
Most of our clients don't fit perfectly into one category. Common scenarios:
"I want custom design but low maintenance" → Consider simpler gunite design with premium finishes (pebble vs. plaster) that reduce maintenance closer to fiberglass levels. Or choose fiberglass and add custom deck features for uniqueness.
"I need fast installation but have access issues" → Gunite is your only option. Plan timeline accordingly or consider alternative access solutions (crane over house, temporary fence removal).
"Budget is tight but I want it to last" → Both last equally long. Fiberglass saves money long-term, so it's the clear choice if budget constrained.
"I'm not sure how long I'll stay in this house" → If less than 10 years, consider resale impact in your neighborhood. If 10+ years, choose based on personal preference—you'll get value from either.
Let's Figure Out What's Right for YOUR Property
We build both gunite and fiberglass pools. We're certified by Genesis3 Design and the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals for both materials. That means we don't push one over the other—we recommend what actually fits your situation.
What you'll get from us: Honest assessment of your soil conditions, realistic cost projections for both options, candid discussion of pros/cons for YOUR specific property, and a recommendation based on 20+ years in Georgia—not sales commission.
We've built hundreds of pools across Kennesaw, Marietta, and Alpharetta. We know what works in Georgia clay, what survives our humidity, and what holds up to our temperature swings. Let us bring that experience to your project.
📞 Schedule your free consultation: (678) 528-4521
We'll visit your property and give you the real story
Final Thoughts: There's No Universal "Best" Material
After 20+ years and hundreds of pools, here's what we know for certain:
Both gunite and fiberglass can be excellent choices in Georgia. Both can also be terrible choices—if installed poorly or chosen for the wrong reasons.
The contractors who tell you "gunite is always better" or "fiberglass is the only way" are either inexperienced with one material or pushing what's most profitable for them.
The truth is more nuanced. Your soil, your lot, your budget, your maintenance commitment, your timeline, and your design goals all matter. Sometimes the right answer is obvious. Sometimes it's genuinely a toss-up and comes down to personal preference.
What matters most? Working with builders who:
Have extensive experience with both materials in Georgia specifically
Understand our unique soil and climate challenges
Will honestly assess your property and needs
Provide detailed cost comparisons including long-term ownership
Stand behind their work with real warranties
The pool material isn't what makes or breaks your project. The builder's expertise, honesty, and execution is what determines whether you love your pool for decades or regret the decision within years.
Choose your builder first. Then let them guide you to the right material for your situation.
Call Alison Pools at (678) 528-4521 for a consultation that prioritizes what's right for you, not what's easiest for us to build.
