As homeowners across San Antonio grapple with the fallout from a wave of concrete pool failures, a growing number are turning to fiberglass as a durable and cost-effective alternative. That shift was the focus of a recent episode of The Building Texas Show, hosted by Justin McKenzie and recorded live at the San Antonio Home and Garden Show. Released on September 14, 2026, the episode—titled "San Antonio Homeowners Are Choosing Fiberglass, Here's Why"—features Jeff and Kelley Turner, owners of Staycation Fiberglass Pools, in the second installment of the show's San Antonio Home and Garden Series.
The Turners explained that many concrete pools built during the COVID-era construction boom are now deteriorating due to alkali-silica reaction (ASR), often called "concrete cancer." Repairing these pools can cost between $200,000 and $400,000, and most builders carry no insurance to cover such tear-outs. This financial burden is pushing homeowners to consider fiberglass pools, which are manufactured with warranties from companies like San Juan and Aqua Technics.
A key issue raised in the episode is the lack of state certification for pool builders in Texas. Jeff Turner pointed 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, leaving homeowners to verify a builder's credentials on their own.
The Turners also discussed the importance of distinguishing a genuine turnkey fiberglass quote from a low bid. They emphasized that engineering plans, proper bonding, correctly sized pump equipment, and full deck scope are critical components that cut-rate contracts often omit. Kelley Turner framed the builder-client relationship as akin to dating, underscoring the value of manufacturer warranties in protecting homeowners.
To illustrate the potential of fiberglass, the Turners shared details of a hybrid negative-edge rebuild they completed in Dripping Springs. The project rescued a one-year-old pool that looked thirty years old, transforming it into a stunning 30-foot infinity edge overlooking the Hill Country. The full build sequence is available in the episode on YouTube.
The Turners credit training from Jason Hughes and River Pools for shaping their client education approach. They also highlighted San Juan, with over 70 years in business, and Australia-based Aqua Technics as warranty benchmarks. Homeowners can view completed projects at staycationfiberglasspools.com.
This trend toward fiberglass pools has significant implications for the Texas pool industry. As more homeowners become aware of the risks associated with concrete pools and the lack of builder oversight, demand for fiberglass options may continue to rise. For consumers, the episode serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of due diligence before signing a pool contract. For builders, it signals a need to adapt to changing preferences and to prioritize transparency and quality to remain competitive. The Building Texas Show continues to provide practical insights from industry experts, helping consumers make informed decisions in a complex market.
