Can Fibreglass Pools Be Saltwater?
With the rapid advancements in the swimming pool industry, pool buyers are settling for nothing but the best. They are interested in exploring all the available pool options before they finalise one. And why shouldn’t they? After all, it involves a huge monetary investment and long-term commitment. These days, saltwater pools are becoming quite the rage in the pool industry. So much so that, almost 80% of Australians reportedly prefer saltwater systems for their pool.
But what are saltwater pools? How do they differ from conventional chlorine pools? Are they compatible with all pool types?
In this blog, we answer all the above-mentioned questions and more.
But first, let’s start with the basics.
What Is A Saltwater Pool Anyway?
Often, when pool buyers hear the term ‘saltwater’ they think it’s a pool filled with water that has the same salinity levels as the sea. However, that is far from the truth. In reality, saltwater has 1/10th the levels of salinity as found in the sea. If you taste it, it will probably have as much salt as you can taste in a teardrop.
A saltwater pool makes use of salt-chlorine generators or salt chlorinators for keeping your pool sanitary at all times. Upon adding salt to the pool water, the salt chlorinator converts it into chlorine which protects the pool against bacteria and algae growth.
You can do away with chlorine liquid, powder and tablets and use a salt chlorinator to keep your pool water clean and hygienic.
Now that we have cleared the air around the concept of saltwater pools, let us see how well they fare in the compatibility department with different pool types.
Does Saltwater System Work with All Kinds of Pools?
Three pool types are very popular with pool buyers – concrete pools, metal wall vinyl liner pools and fibreglass pools.
1. Concrete Pools
Unfortunately, concrete swimming pools and saltwater systems are not an ideal combination. This is because salt chlorinators are up to 5 times more abrasive on concrete surfaces as compared to regular chlorine. So, even though you can have concrete saltwater pools, it would mean frequent resurfacing of the pool. This can turn out to be quite an expensive affair in the long run.
2. Metal Wall Vinyl Liner Pools
You don’t have to be an expert to know salt and metal don’t go hand in hand. Salt causes the metal to rust, and so, a salt chlorinator can never be compatible with a metal wall vinyl liner pool. The pool structure can get damaged by galvanic corrosion. Even the smallest hole can jeopardize the entire structure of the pool.
3. Fibreglass Pools
With fibreglass pools, we have a winner. Fibreglass pools are virtually non-porous and smooth. They are extremely compatible with saltwater systems i.e., it has no negative impact on the pool. Since the fibreglass pools are virtually non-porous, they do not attract any bacteria and algae to settle, unlike in the case of concrete pools. This means you save maintenance costs of any corrosion damage, resurfacing, cleaning and overall management of the pool.
Things to Bear in Mind When You Have A Saltwater System for Your Pool
When you invest in a saltwater pool, do not make the error of neglecting the backyard or pool area around it. When you get in and out of the water, you will splash the water on the surrounding areas too. If they are made using materials that aren’t compatible with saltwater, it could damage them.
For instance, if the deck or any equipment around the pool is made of metal or aluminum fittings, it may get rusted by saltwater.
In case you have any such objects in the vicinity of the pool, it is advisable to wash them down with fresh water to eliminate the damage by corrosion. This will prevent concentrations of salt and residue from settling and causing any damage.
Are Saltwater Pools Costly?
The initial or upfront cost of purchasing a salt chlorinator can be expensive. Depending on the brand and the size of the pool, a salt chlorinator can cost between $600 and $2,000. However, don’t get alarmed at the high initial costs as you can easily recoup them over the lifespan of the pool. Fibreglass saltwater pools are known to drastically lower your maintenance and operational costs in the long run.
The maintenance costs fall in the range of $50 to $100 annually. The salt chlorine cells have a shelf life between 3 and 7 years. If you maintain them well, you can experience longer and better results. The replacement costs of salt chlorine cells fall in the price range of $700 and $900. If you were to invest in a traditional chlorine pool, you would end up spending a lot more over the lifespan of the pool.
Are Saltwater Pools Safe?
Yes, saltwater pools are safer compared to chlorine pools. Salt chlorinators monitor the chlorine levels in the pool and release lower levels of chlorine in comparison to conventional chlorine pools. This means you don’t have to worry about any skin rashes or itchy eyes. You can simply enjoy a relaxing dip in the pool without having to reek of chlorine.
Fibreglass Saltwater Pools Are the Preferred Choice of Pool Owners
Here are some more reasons why fibreglass saltwater pools are increasingly climbing the charts:
Cleansing
Saltwater pools are getting popular as they cleanse the skin and give it a glow. Unlike a chlorine pool which requires chlorine tablets, powders or liquid to keep the pool water sanitary, a saltwater pool is not exposed to toxic fumes. Additionally, it can detoxify, exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. If you have any skin allergies, the balanced chlorine content in saltwater pools ensures no reactions are triggered with overexposure. Instead, your skin can retain more moisture and feel nourished.
Regular Disinfection
A saltwater system has disinfecting mechanisms that prevent algae, bacteria and other such contaminants from growing in the pool. It utilizes the process of electrolysis, whereby hypochlorous acid is released in the pool water when the salt dissolves. This renders the water germ-free and you can swim without any worries.
Convenient
Saltwater pools are much more convenient and easier to manage as compared to chlorine pools. You can even connect the pool to a smart device and control its components via an app, no matter where you are. The automated pumps can regulate the water at regular intervals. The heating and circulation system can ensure the right water temperature for you to enjoy a refreshing swim – all at the touch of a button.
Bottom Line
Saltwater pools are easier to maintain than a traditional chlorine pool. Even though they may be costly initially, but you can recoup all the costs over the years. Fibreglass pools are extremely compatible with saltwater systems as they are virtually non-porous. This means you can protect your pool from bacteria, algae and other harmful contaminants resulting in healthier pool water.
Do you think a fibreglass saltwater pool would look lovely in your backyard? Get in touch with us, and we would be more than happy to make your dream a reality. Our experienced team of pool builders have installed hundreds of pools for happy customers. You could be next.