San Antonio homeowners are increasingly turning to fiberglass pools over traditional concrete, according to a recent episode of The Building Texas Show. The episode, titled "San Antonio Homeowners Are Choosing Fiberglass, Here's Why," was recorded live at the San Antonio Home and Garden Show and released on September 14, 2026. It features Jeff and Kelley Turner, owners of Staycation Fiberglass Pools, who explain the pitfalls of concrete pools and the advantages of fiberglass.
The Turners, who have become advocates for fiberglass pool construction, discuss the wave of concrete pools built during the COVID-19 construction boom that are now failing. Repair bills for these pools can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. One major issue is the rise of ASR, or "concrete cancer," in pools built during and after the pandemic. This condition causes concrete to crack and disintegrate, often leading to tear-outs costing between $200,000 and $400,000. Most builders carry no insurance to cover such repairs, leaving homeowners financially devastated.
A significant factor behind these failures is the lack of regulation in Texas for pool builders. Jeff Turner points out, "In Texas, you need more certifications to do hair than you do to build a pool. It's wild. And you need to be a chemist to be a hairdresser, and you don't need to be a chemist to build a pool." While PHTA (Pool and Hot Tub Association) certification exists, it is voluntary. Homeowners must specifically ask for it, and many builders operate without it.
The Turners also highlight the importance of understanding what a genuine turnkey fiberglass price includes. They explain that low bids often cut corners on engineering plans, bonding, pump sizing, and deck scope. These shortcuts can lead to costly problems down the line. They emphasize that manufacturer warranties from companies like San Juan and Aqua Technics matter, as they provide assurance of quality and durability.
For homeowners considering a pool, the Turners recommend asking builders about their certifications, experience, and warranty coverage. They also discuss renovation options for existing concrete pools, such as EcoFinish flame-applied polymer resurfacing, which can extend the life of a pool without a full tear-out.
The episode also features a hybrid negative-edge rebuild in Dripping Springs, where the Turners rescued a one-year-old fiberglass pool that looked thirty years old. The full build sequence, from shell to a 30-foot infinity edge over the Hill Country, is available in the video. Viewers can watch the full episode on YouTube to see the transformation.
The Turners credit training from Jason Hughes and River Pools for shaping their approach to educating clients before they sign a contract. They also point to San Juan, with over 70 years in the business, and Australia-based Aqua Technics as benchmarks for manufacturer warranties. These companies stand behind their products, providing peace of mind for homeowners.
As the demand for fiberglass pools grows, the Turners' message is clear: do your research, ask the right questions, and choose a builder who prioritizes quality and transparency. With concrete pool failures on the rise, fiberglass offers a more reliable and cost-effective alternative for San Antonio homeowners.
