Story Highlights
Owning a fiberglass pool offers countless benefits: durability, beauty, and low-maintenance enjoyment for years to come. However, to keep your pool in pristine condition, it’s essential to understand the maintenance required to preserve its quality and extend its lifespan. Whether you’ve chosen a Latham or Imagine fiberglass pool, maintaining your investment is simpler than you might think.
Fiberglass pools are known for their minimal maintenance needs compared to other pool types, but regular care is still necessary to keep them looking and performing their best. Here’s a detailed guide to maintaining your fiberglass pool:
Water Chemistry Balance
Test your water chemistry weekly to ensure proper pH (7.2-7.6), alkalinity (80-120 ppm), and calcium hardness (200-400 ppm).
Keep chlorine levels between 1-3 ppm to sanitize the water effectively without causing damage to the gelcoat surface.
Use a reliable water testing kit or take a sample to a local pool store for professional analysis.
Cleaning and Debris Removal
Skim the pool surface daily to remove leaves and debris.
Vacuum the pool floor as needed or invest in an automatic pool cleaner for convenience.
Brush the pool walls and steps weekly with a soft-bristle brush to prevent algae buildup without scratching the gelcoat.
Filtration System Maintenance
Clean your pool filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, typically every 4-6 weeks.
Backwash sand or DE filters as needed, and replace filter cartridges annually or as specified.
Check the pump and skimmer baskets weekly, emptying them to ensure proper water flow.
Maintaining Gelcoat Finish
Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that can damage the pool’s gelcoat finish.
Apply a gelcoat-safe pool polish annually to maintain its shine and UV resistance.
Address minor stains with pool-safe cleaning solutions designed for fiberglass surfaces.
Seasonal Maintenance
Opening Your Pool: Clean and inspect all equipment, remove winterizing plugs, and adjust water levels and chemistry.
Closing Your Pool: Thoroughly clean the pool, balance the water chemistry, and install a high-quality pool cover to protect it during the offseason.
Monitor Water Levels
Maintain water levels at the midpoint of the skimmer to ensure optimal filtration and avoid damage to the pump.
Refill as needed, especially during hot summer months when evaporation rates are higher.
By following these straightforward maintenance practices, you’ll ensure your Outdoor Dreams fiberglass pool remains a stunning centerpiece of your outdoor space for years to come. Fiberglass pools are designed for longevity and easy care, allowing you to spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your pool with family and friends.
Gunite pools are a luxurious and versatile choice, offering endless customization options and unmatched durability. To maximize the lifespan and beauty of your pool, regular maintenance is essential. At Outdoor Dreams, we finish our gunite pools with premium Wet Edge products, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics. Here’s what you need to know about caring for your gunite pool.
Debating between a fiberglass pool or a gunite pool for your backyard? This in-depth guide compares the pros and cons of fiberglass vs. gunite swimming pools and explains how Outdoor Dreams helps homeowners in Central Virginia and beyond make confident, informed decisions through expert design, 3D renderings, and transparent pricing.