A surge in failing concrete pools across Texas is prompting homeowners to reconsider fiberglass as a more reliable and cost-effective option, according to a recent episode of The Building Texas Show. Recorded live at the San Antonio Home and Garden Show and 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. They explain that many concrete pools built during the COVID-era construction boom are now deteriorating due to alkali-silica reaction (ASR), often called "concrete cancer," leading to repair bills that can reach $200,000 to $400,000.
The Turners emphasize that Texas does not require any certification to build a pool, a regulatory gap that allows unqualified builders to operate. Jeff Turner pointed out the absurdity: "In Texas, you need more certifications to do hair than you do to build a pool." While PHTA (Pool and Hot Tub Association) certification exists, it is voluntary, and homeowners must specifically ask for it. This lack of oversight means many pool owners are left with failing structures and no recourse, as most builders carry no insurance to cover tear-outs.
The episode also highlights the importance of understanding what a genuine turnkey fiberglass price includes. The Turners stress that engineering plans, proper bonding, correctly sized pump equipment, and full deck scope are critical components that cut-rate contracts often omit. They warn that low bids frequently lead to costly problems down the line. Manufacturer warranties from companies like San Juan and Aqua Technics are presented as benchmarks, and the Turners explain that a builder's relationship with a manufacturer is akin to dating—it requires trust and accountability.
For homeowners considering renovation, the Turners discuss options such as EcoFinish flame-applied polymer resurfacing. They also share details of a hybrid negative-edge rebuild in Dripping Springs, where they rescued a one-year-old fiberglass pool that looked thirty years old, complete with a 30-foot infinity edge over the Hill Country. The full build sequence is available in the video.
The Turners credit training from Jason Hughes and River Pools for shaping their client education approach. They encourage homeowners to see completed projects at staycationfiberglasspools.com and to watch the full episode on YouTube for detailed guidance on avoiding pool construction pitfalls.
This story matters because it underscores a growing consumer protection issue in Texas, where the absence of licensing and the prevalence of subpar construction are costing homeowners hundreds of thousands of dollars. As more concrete pools fail, the shift toward fiberglass—backed by manufacturer warranties and certified builders—could become the standard for savvy homeowners seeking long-term value and peace of mind.
