Fiberglass vs Concrete Pools: Which Is Best for Your Missouri Backyard?
Fiberglass vs Concrete Pools: Which Is Best for Your Missouri Backyard?
When planning a new inground pool for your home in Jefferson City, Columbia, or the Lake of the Ozarks, one of the first questions you’ll face is whether to install a fiberglass or concrete pool. Both are excellent choices, but they come with different features, costs, and long-term considerations. At Firebird Concrete & Pools, we install both types of pools, and we help Missouri homeowners make the right decision based on their property, lifestyle, and budget.
Fiberglass pools are pre-manufactured shells made of durable, reinforced fiberglass. These pools are transported to your property and installed into a custom-dug hole. Because they arrive as a single piece, the installation process is usually very quick—typically completed in just a week or two. Homeowners love fiberglass pools for their low maintenance and long-term durability. The nonporous gel coat surface makes it difficult for algae to cling, meaning you’ll spend less time balancing chemicals and cleaning the pool. The smooth finish is also gentle on your feet and swimwear, which adds to the comfort and enjoyment of daily use.
On the other hand, concrete pools—sometimes referred to as gunite pools—are built on-site using a steel rebar framework sprayed with a concrete mixture. This construction process offers virtually unlimited customization. If you're dreaming of a unique pool shape, built-in tanning ledges, or dramatic design features like waterfalls or vanishing edges, a concrete pool is likely the better option. These pools take longer to build, often several weeks to a few months, but the end result is a fully custom swimming experience designed around your vision and your landscape.
Fiberglass pools are often preferred by families or second homeowners at the Lake of the Ozarks who want a quick, low-maintenance solution with great energy efficiency. Concrete pools, with their high-end finishes and architectural flexibility, are a favorite for homeowners looking to make a bold, permanent statement in their outdoor living space.
At Firebird Concrete & Pools, we’re proud to offer both options, with full-service installation that includes excavation, decking, and more. We’re also an authorized San Juan Pools dealer, offering some of the best fiberglass models on the market—backed by a 25-year warranty. Our team is hands-on, experienced, and committed to helping you choose the best pool for your needs.
If you’re planning a backyard transformation in Jefferson City, Columbia, or anywhere in Mid-Missouri, we’re here to help every step of the way. Reach out to us for a free estimate, and let’s explore the perfect pool for your property.




