What Is the Best Inground Pool for Homes in the Southeast? Compare Fiberglass vs Concrete Pools

What Is the Best Inground Swimming Pool for Homes in the Southeast?

If you live in the Southeastern United States—Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, or surrounding states—then you know the value of a backyard swimming pool. With long, hot summers and warm springs and falls, having an inground pool isn’t just a luxury—it’s a lifestyle essential.

But what’s the best type of inground pool for Southern homeowners? The two most popular choices are fiberglass and concrete pools. Each has advantages and drawbacks depending on your priorities, budget, and the unique conditions of Southeastern climates.


Why Pool Choice Matters in the Southeast

The hot, humid weather of the Southeast means your pool gets a lot of use—but it also faces challenges like UV exposure, algae growth, and seasonal storms. That makes your choice of pool material especially important.


Fiberglass Pools — Perfect for Southern Climate and Fast Installs

What is a Fiberglass Pool?

Fiberglass pools are pre-manufactured shells delivered to your home and installed in-ground. They’re popular across the Southeast for their fast setup and heat-resistant, algae-resistant surfaces. Rainforest Pools manufactures 17 fiberglass models in Longwood, FL 

Pros of Fiberglass Pools in the Southeast

  • Quick Installation: Typically installed in 1–2 weeks, perfect for warm-weather states where pool season starts early.

  • Low Maintenance: Smooth, non-porous surface resists algae—a big plus in humid climates like Florida or Georgia.

  • Energy Efficient: Holds heat well and works great with saltwater systems.

  • Durable in Storm-Prone Areas: One-piece construction and flexibility help resist damage from ground shifting or heavy rains.

  • Cool to the Touch: Unlike concrete, fiberglass surfaces don’t get scorching hot under the Southern sun.

Cons

  • Limited Customization: You can’t create a fully custom shape—only pre-designed models.


Concrete Pools — High-End Customization with a Southern Twist

What is a Concrete Pool?

Concrete pools (also called gunite) are built from the ground up on-site, allowing unlimited shape and feature customization.

Pros of Concrete Pools in the Southeast

  • Fully Customizable: Ideal if you want features like beach entries, extensive rock waterfalls/features or custom slides

  • Premium Aesthetic: Great for high-end outdoor living environments and custom landscaping.

Cons

  • Longer Installation Times: May take 6+ months which could delay your pool enjoyment if you start late in the season.

  • Higher Maintenance: Concrete’s porous surface is more prone to algae, requiring more frequent chemical treatments—especially in humid states.

  • Hot Surfaces: Concrete absorbs heat and can be uncomfortable on bare feet in direct sun.


Maintenance comparison between gunite, vinyl and fiberglass in ground swimming poolsBest Choice for Southeastern Homeowners? Fiberglass Is Gaining Ground

While concrete pools have traditionally been popular for custom projects, more Southeastern homeowners are choosing fiberglass for its low maintenance, fast installation, and modern aesthetics.

With options like plunge pools, cocktail pools, and family-sized models, fiberglass pools from Rainforest Pools are specifically engineered to perform well in the warm, humid, and storm-prone climates of the South.

Our American-made fiberglass pools are:

  • Manufactured for strength and longevity

  • Delivered and installed quickly—often within 10 days

  • Designed with built-in ledges, benches, and tanning shelves


Your Pool. Your Lifestyle. Your Climate.

When deciding between fiberglass and concrete pools in the Southeast, think about:

  • How soon you want to swim

  • How much time you’ll spend on pool care

  • What your budget allows now—and for future maintenance

  • Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a luxury custom design

For most homeowners in the Southeast looking for hassle-free ownership and quick installation, fiberglass is the clear winner.


To Sum Up…

Living in the Southeast means long summers and plenty of pool days ahead. Whether you’re in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, or Alabama, investing in the right pool makes all the difference.

Fiberglass pools are perfect for Southern homeowners seeking low-maintenance, efficient, and long-lasting pool solutions.
🏗️ Concrete pools offer customization for luxury builds, but with higher upkeep.

Rainforest Pools specializes in American-made fiberglass pools built for Southern living. Contact us today to explore the best pool models for your home!

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👉 Visit www.RainforestPoolsUSA.com to explore models, gallery, and customer reviews.