The Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Spas
- mike
- Mar 19
- 4 min read
The Pros and Cons of Fiberglass Spas
If you’re planning an inground pool, there’s a good chance this question has come up:
“Should we add a spa?”And more specifically: “Is a fiberglass spa like the River Pools SS08 worth it?”
At first glance, it feels like an easy yes:
Warm water
Relaxation
But here’s the truth most pool companies won’t tell you:
A spa is one of the most commonly added—and sometimes least used—features in a backyard.
That doesn’t mean it’s a bad choice. It just means you need to understand exactly what you’re getting. Lets dive into the pros and cons of fiberglass spas.
What Is a Fiberglass Spa?
A fiberglass spa is a pre-molded, factory-built hot tub shell installed either:
Independently
Or integrated with your pool
The River Pools SS08 is a popular example:
Compact footprint (great for most backyards)
Built-in seating and jet layout
Designed to pair cleanly with fiberglass pools
Think of it as a permanent, built-in hot tub with a cleaner, more integrated look.
The Pros of Fiberglass Spas
1. True Relaxation
Let’s start with the obvious.
A spa is about slowing down.
Warm water
Limited Hydrotherapy jets
For many homeowners, this becomes:
A nightly routine
A stress relief tool
A quiet space away from everything else
2. Smaller, More Efficient to Heat
Compared to heating a full pool:
A spa heats faster and more efficiently
Less water volume
Faster warm-up time
Lower energy cost per use
3. Clean, Integrated Look
When paired with a fiberglass pool:
Everything matches.
Same finish
Same color
Clean transitions
Compared to:
Standalone hot tubs
Or mismatched materials
It feels more like a designed space, not an add-on.
4. Faster Installation
Because it’s pre-built:
👉 Installation is quicker and more predictable
Less construction time
Fewer delays
Less disruption
The Cons of Fiberglass Spas
Now let’s talk about what people don’t always think through.
1. They Don’t Get Used as Much as People Expect
This is the big one.
At first: “We’ll use this all the time.” Reality: Many homeowners use it less than expected.
Why?
Busy schedules
Heating time (if not always on)
Changing habits
👉 This is the #1 regret scenario.
2. Limited Seating and Space
The SS08 is compact by design.
That’s a benefit—but also a limitation.
Typically fits 4–6 people comfortably
Can feel tight with a group
If you’re picturing:
Entertaining
Large gatherings
It may not match that vision.
3. Reduced Theraputic Affect
With fiberglass:
👉 What you see is what you get.
There are fewer therapy jets and less flexibility of jet layout with fiberglass spas
Less jets = less relaxation
4. Requires Heating to Be Enjoyable
Unlike a pool:
A spa needs to be heated to be used comfortably.
That means:
Energy use
Planning ahead (if not always heated)
Some homeowners underestimate this.
5. Adds Cost to the Overall Project
Even though it’s comparably priced to a gunite spa:
It’s still a significant add-on.
Installation
Equipment
Heating system
You have to decide: Is it worth it for how often you’ll use it?
6. Maintenance Considerations
While not difficult:
A spa requires attention.
Water chemistry changes faster (small volume)
More frequent adjustments
Jet maintenance over time
7. Not a Substitute for a Full Pool Experience
This might sound obvious—but it matters.
👉 A spa is not:
A pool
A social centerpiece
It’s a secondary feature, not the main attraction.
8.Its permanent
Once a fiberglass spa is installed its not readily movable like a portable spa.
9.It cannot be operated year round
A fiberglass spa is not insulated and cannot be operated like a portable hot tub. It needs to be winterizzed like a pool.
Fiberglass Spa vs Portable Hot Tub
Fiberglass Spa (SS08)
👉 Best for:
Integrated design
Permanent installation
Clean, cohesive backyard look
Aesthetics over functionality
Portable Hot Tub
👉 Best for:
Lower upfront cost
Plug-and-play setup
Easier replacement
True theaputic affect
Year round use
So… Is a Fiberglass Spa Right for You?
✅ It’s a Great Fit If You:
Value relaxation and downtime
Want to extend your pool season
Like a clean, built-in look
Plan to use it regularly (not occasionally)
Are already investing in a pool project
❌ It Might Not Be Right If You:
Aren’t sure how often you’ll use it
Prefer low upfront cost
Want a large social space
Don’t want the added heating + maintenance considerations
Are trying to maximize budget for the pool itself
Want year round use
Value true theraputic affect
The Moral of the Story
A fiberglass spa like the SS08 can be an incredible addition. But only if it matches your lifestyle.
If you’re someone who:
Will use it regularly
Values relaxation
Wants more time in your backyard
👉 You’ll likely love it.
If it’s more of a “nice idea” than a real habit… It may end up being underused.
The question isn’t: “Should I add a spa?”
The real question is: “Will I actually use it enough to justify it?”
Answer that honestly… And you’ll make the right decision.
SHAMELESS CALL TO ACTION
If you are ready to dive in and explore the possibilities of fiberglass pool ownership don't hesitate to call Pool Pros today @ 920-771-0107. Our in house pool designers are waiting to help create the outdoor living area of your dreams. When Quality Counts, Count on Pool Pros.
AUTHOR BIO
Mike Bowers is the founder and owner of Pool Pros Inc. in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He has spent 29 years installing and servicing swimming pools throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Is an Advanced Certified Building Professional, Certified Service Professional, Licensed General Contractor, Father to 4 beautiful children and Husband to the one and only "PoolWife" Lysti.
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