When the summer sun is at its peak, few things compare to the comfort of stepping into your pool. For many homeowners in Coffs Harbour, a swimming pool is more than a luxury—it’s a lifestyle choice that blends outdoor living, relaxation, and family fun. But before diving into the design, there’s a crucial decision: should you choose a concrete or fibreglass pool?

Both options have unique benefits, and the right choice depends on factors like local soil conditions, council regulations, your property layout, and long-term plans for maintenance and resale. To help you make an informed decision, let’s look at how each type of pool stacks up for Coffs Harbour homes.



Pools in coastal environments face unique challenges. High rainfall, shifting soils, and the salt-laden air can affect pool longevity, making durability a key consideration.

• Concrete pools are exceptionally strong and can be engineered to handle unstable soils and sloping blocks. Their reinforced structure makes them less prone to warping and allows them to withstand decades of use with proper care.
• Fibreglass pools are pre-manufactured shells designed to be flexible enough to withstand ground movement. Thanks to their smooth gel-coat surface, they also resist corrosion and chemical wear.

Not every property has a perfect flat block, and many Coffs Harbour homeowners want their pool to suit a specific lifestyle vision. This is where the difference between concrete and fibreglass pools becomes clear.

• Concrete pools allow almost unlimited design freedom. Concrete can be shaped to fit whether you want a lap pool, a freeform lagoon, or a custom feature such as a beach entry or spa integration.
• Fibreglass pools come in pre-moulded designs, which speeds up installation but limits customisation. Homeowners must choose from various sizes, depths, and shapes.

Concrete may be the better choice if your home has unique landscaping or a challenging slope. Fibreglass remains an attractive choice for those wanting a quick and straightforward installation.

nstallation time is one of the most significant differences between concrete and fibreglass pools.

Fibreglass pools typically arrive as a single pre-formed shell, ready to be placed into an excavated hole. This streamlined process often takes just a few weeks, making it ideal for families who want to enjoy their pool sooner rather than later.

By contrast, concrete pools are built from the ground up. The excavation, steel reinforcement, concreting, and curing processes mean installation can take several months. This extended timeline may not be an issue for homeowners planning major landscaping or home renovations alongside their pool, but it does require patience.



Every pool requires care, but the level of maintenance differs between concrete and fibreglass.

Concrete pools

• Porous surfaces can harbour algae if not regularly cleaned.
• Resurfacing may be required every 10–15 years to maintain appearance and water quality.
• Custom finishes, such as tiles or pebbles, may need more attention to keep them in top condition.

Fibreglass pools

• A non-porous gel-coat finish makes cleaning easier and reduces chemical usage.
• Less prone to algae growth, resulting in lower maintenance over time.
• The surface typically lasts for decades with minimal upkeep.

Building a pool in Coffs Harbour requires compliance with council regulations. These approvals ensure pools meet safety and environmental standards, and the type of pool you choose can influence the process.

• Fencing: Both pool types require compliant barriers, but council inspectors may pay closer attention to custom concrete pools with integrated landscaping.
• Drainage: Depending on soil type and property slope, concrete pools may need more complex drainage systems.
• Site impact: Larger excavations for concrete pools can affect surrounding structures, requiring additional engineering reports.
• Approvals: Fibreglass pools, being pre-fabricated, can sometimes have a faster approval process due to their standardised dimensions.

Understanding these requirements early can help avoid construction delays and ensure your pool project runs smoothly.

While upfront price often plays a major role in decision-making, it’s also important to consider long-term costs.

• Concrete pools: Higher initial investment due to engineering, customisation, and labour. Ongoing resurfacing and higher chemical use can increase lifetime costs.
• Fibreglass pools offer lower upfront costs, faster installation, and lower maintenance expenses over time. However, fewer customisation options may affect the value of some homeowners.



A swimming pool is a long-term investment, and the support you receive after construction is just as important as the build itself. A quality builder will offer warranties, maintenance advice, and sometimes even servicing options.

Support you can expect after construction:

• Warranty coverage on structural elements and equipment
• Initial handover that includes guidance on cleaning and water chemistry
• Availability of maintenance packages or referrals to trusted service providers
• Troubleshooting assistance for filtration, pumps, and other systems



Ongoing support ensures that your pool remains in excellent condition and provides you with lasting value.

Pools are a major feature in property resale. The type of pool installed can influence buyers’ perceptions of value.

Concrete pools often add prestige to a home, especially if designed with custom finishes, integrated water features, or unique landscaping. Buyers see them as a statement piece that enhances luxury appeal.

Fibreglass pools, on the other hand, attract buyers looking for practicality and low-maintenance living. Their ease of care and clean appearance can particularly appeal to families or retirees seeking convenience.

Both pool types can enhance resale value, but the impact depends on the type of buyer likely to be interested in your home.



Modern pool design trends in Coffs Harbour are leaning towards functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Homeowners want pools that not only look impressive but also enhance everyday living.

Current trends include:

• Sleek finishes with glass mosaics and pebblecrete in concrete pools.
• Eco-friendly add-ons like solar heating and pool blankets for fibreglass installations.
• Integration of pools with outdoor entertaining areas, including decking and cabanas.
• LED lighting systems that create ambience and extend pool use into the evening.

Whether you choose concrete or fibreglass, incorporating these design trends ensures your pool feels modern and complements your lifestyle.

At Solitary Island Pools, we understand that building a pool is more than just construction—it’s about creating a lifestyle that fits your home and family. Whether you’re drawn to the design freedom of concrete or the convenience of fibreglass, our team of pool builders in Coffs Harbour is here to guide you.

Get in touch with us today. Speak with our team to book a consultation and take the first step towards building the pool that suits your property, lifestyle, and long-term vision.