What Are Fiberglass Pools? – A Beginner’s Guide

Where innovation and elegance harmoniously converge lies the aquatic luxury of a fiberglass pool. Imagine it’s a hot summer day, the orange sun beams brightly, and you have a refreshing escape right in the comfort of your own backyard. As a homeowner, you deserve a slice of paradise to unwind, entertain, and create lasting memories with family and friends. 

So let’s delve into the captivating world of fiberglass pools and explore why they’ve become a must-have addition for homeowners everywhere. In this article, we’ll answer the question “What is a fiberglass pool?” and tell you everything you need to know about this innovative pool, from its pros and cons to the installation techniques that make it an unrivaled aquatic beauty.

What is a fiberglass pool?

Fiberglass pools are known as “one-piece swimming pools” as they’re pre-manufactured in a factory using a mold and then transported to the desired location. These pools are meticulously crafted as composite pool shells, skillfully created by artisans, and delivered to your home fully prepared for installation.

Because of how these pools are made, they’re often referred to as prefab pools. A prefab pool can be an in-ground or above-ground pool that undergoes complete manufacturing in a dedicated facility before being transported to your home for installation. This prefabrication process distinguishes fiberglass pools from other types of pools that may require on-site construction or assembly.

The making of a fiberglass swimming pool

Now that you understand what a fiberglass pool is, let’s talk about how this innovative swimming pool is made. 

The creation of these molded swimming pools involves a meticulous prefabrication process that results in a durable and beautiful pool structure. It all begins with the construction of a mold, which serves as the template for the pool’s shape and design. Layers of fiberglass strands, composed of fine glass filaments, are then carefully woven into the mold. These strands provide the pool with exceptional strength and flexibility. 

Next, a specialized resin, such as polyester or vinyl ester resin, is applied to saturate the fiberglass strands. This resin acts as a binding agent, creating a solid and cohesive structure that forms the fiberglass shell. Afterward, the pool shell undergoes a curing process, allowing the fiberglass and resin to harden and bond together. Once cured, the pool shell is carefully removed from the mold and inspected for quality. Any necessary finishing touches, such as the application of a gel coat layer for a smooth and attractive surface, are made. 

Finally, the completed fiberglass pool is transported to its destination, ready for installation. This entire process ensures that the pool arrives at your home as a complete unit, minimizing on-site construction and allowing for a faster and more efficient installation process.  

Installation of a fiberglass pool

The installation process of a fiberglass pool involves several key steps to ensure proper and secure placement. First, the installation site is prepared by excavating the area according to the pool’s dimensions and shape. The ground is leveled and compacted to provide a stable foundation. 

Next, the pool shell is carefully placed into the excavated area using cranes or other equipment. The pool is aligned and leveled to ensure proper positioning. Backfill material, such as sand or gravel, is then added around the pool shell to provide support and stability. Plumbing and electrical connections are installed, including the installation of filtration systems, pumps, and other necessary equipment. The pool shell is secured in place, and the surrounding area is backfilled and compacted. 

Lastly, the pool is filled with water, and any necessary finishing touches, such as landscaping or decking, are completed. Throughout the installation process, it’s crucial to work with expert landscaping professionals to ensure a successful and long-lasting fiberglass pool installation.

What is a fiberglass pool? The perks of the pros

There are many benefits to installing a fiberglass pool. We’ve listed a few of the significant ones, including durability, low maintenance, energy efficiency, aesthetics, and customization.

Your pool is durable

Fiberglass pools have earned a stellar reputation for their exceptional durability. The composite material used in their construction plays a crucial role in their resilience. The combination of fiberglass strands and a specialized resin matrix creates a pool shell that is highly resistant to various forms of damage. Unlike concrete or vinyl liner pools, fiberglass pools are less prone to cracking, which can be caused by shifting ground or extreme weather conditions. The inherent flexibility of the fiberglass material allows it to withstand ground movement without compromising the structural integrity of the pool.

In addition to crack resistance, fiberglass pools are highly resistant to fading and warping. The gel coat finish, which is applied to the surface of the pool during the manufacturing process, acts as a protective layer against UV radiation. This helps prevent the colors of the pool from fading over time, ensuring that your pool maintains its vibrant appearance for years to come. Furthermore, the composite material used in fiberglass pools has low water absorption, reducing the risk of warping or distortion caused by prolonged exposure to water.

Your pool is low-maintenance

What’s a fiberglass pool good for if you have to break a sweat cleaning it for two hours every Saturday? No one wants to invest in a pool that’ll turn into a grueling DIY maintenance project. Luckily, a perk of fiber pools lies in their minimal upkeep, thanks to their smooth and non-porous surface. 

The non-porous nature of the fiberglass material creates an inhospitable environment for algae growth. Unlike other pool surfaces, like concrete or vinyl liners that can develop microscopic pores, the smooth gel coat finish of fiberglass pools resists algae attachment and makes it easier to clean. This reduced likelihood of algae growth in fiberglass pools translates to less time and effort spent on maintenance. Algae, if allowed to flourish, can be a persistent problem in pools, leading to green or cloudy water and requiring frequent cleaning and chemical treatments to keep the pool clear and safe for swimming. But with a fiberglass pool’s smooth surface, the chances of algae infestation are significantly minimized, reducing the need for extensive scrubbing, brushing, and chemical usage.

Moreover, the non-porous surface of fiberglass pools also contributes to better water chemistry balance. Because fiberglass pools don’t have pores or cracks that can trap dirt and debris, maintaining proper water chemistry becomes more manageable. The smooth surface allows for efficient circulation and distribution of pool chemicals, resulting in better water quality and clarity.

Overall, the reduced propensity for algae growth and the ease of maintaining proper water chemistry in fiberglass pools means less time and effort spent on cleaning and chemical treatments. This allows pool owners to spend more time enjoying their pool and less time dealing with tedious maintenance tasks. Whether they’re swimming, lounging, or entertaining, fiberglass pool owners can experience more relaxation and recreation without compromising on water quality or cleanliness.

Your pool is energy-efficient

The composite material used in pools of fiberglass not only provides strength and durability, but also offers excellent insulation properties. This insulation capability plays a crucial role in heat retention within the pool. Fiberglass has inherently low thermal conductivity, meaning it’s not a good conductor of heat. As a result, these pools are more efficient at trapping and retaining heat compared to other pools that are made from concrete or vinyl.

Your pool is a stunning oasis

The aesthetic appeal of fiberglass pools is enhanced by their smooth finish and vibrant gel coat colors. With a range of options available, you can choose from classic blue hues or opt for unique and customized colors to create a visually stunning oasis in your backyard. The smooth surface of fiberglass pools not only feels pleasant to the touch, but also provides a sleek and polished look that adds elegance and beauty to your outdoor space. 

Your pool is customized

A huge contributing factor to these pools’ aesthetic appeal is their flexible nature for customization. Fiberglass pools truly embrace the concept of personalization, offering an extensive selection of shapes, sizes, and designs to suit every homeowner’s taste and outdoor space. 

Shape

Whether you want a classic and timeless rectangular pool that exudes elegance and symmetry, or a more organic freeform shape that blends harmoniously with your landscape, fiberglass pools have you covered. With their versatility, these pools can be customized to match your unique vision and lifestyle preferences.

Size

Fiberglass pools can be adapted to fit the available space in your backyard, whether it’s a compact urban oasis or an expansive suburban yard. Their flexibility in size ensures that you can find the perfect fit without compromising on your desired pool experience.

Design

The customization possibilities of fiberglass pools extend beyond their shape and size. There are many options for finishes, colors, and accessories, allowing you to create a truly personalized pool. From selecting the color of your pool’s gel coat to choosing tile patterns and lighting options, every detail can be tailored to reflect your unique style and create your desired atmosphere.

What is a fiberglass pool? Considering the cons

Fiberglass pools don’t have many drawbacks, but there are a couple of factors worth considering before diving into your new fiber pool.

You may have a high upfront cost

A fiber pool tends to have a higher initial cost compared to some other pool types, such as vinyl liner pools. The specific cost of a fiberglass pool can vary based on several factors, including the size of the pool, the level of customization desired, and the inclusion of additional features.

The manufacturing process of these luxurious pools involves intricate craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials, which contributes to their durability and longevity. But this level of quality and craftsmanship comes with a higher price tag. The production of the fiberglass shell, which is manufactured off-site in a controlled environment, requires specialized equipment and skilled labor, further adding to the total cost.

The size of the pool also plays a significant role in determining the cost, as larger pools require more materials and labor during both the manufacturing and installation processes. Likewise, customization options, such as the addition of built-in features like spas, waterfalls, or lighting systems, can spike the cost. These customizations often involve additional design work, construction, and installation, leading to higher overall expenses. 

All in all, the average cost of a basic fiberglass pool ranges from $30,000 to $70,000. That said, it’s important to note that these figures are estimates, and the actual cost can be higher or lower depending on the factors we’ve mentioned like size, customization, and extra features.

The color may fade

The vibrant gel coat colors of fiberglass pools can enhance the visual appeal of any outdoor space. However, it’s important to be aware of the fact that over time these colors may gradually fade due to various factors, including exposure to UV rays and chemical treatments.

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are one of the primary causes of color fading in fiberglass pools. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can break down the pigments in the gel coat, leading to a loss of color intensity. While manufacturers take measures to incorporate UV inhibitors in the gel coat, the inevitable effects of UV radiation can still cause some degree of color fading over time.

Chemical treatments, such as the use of chlorine and other pool sanitizers, can also contribute to color fading. Improper or excessive use of chemicals can accelerate the fading process. Harsh chemicals or unbalanced water chemistry can strip away the protective layers of the gel coat, making the pool surface more susceptible to color degradation.

Lowering the risk of color fading

While color fading is a possibility, regular maintenance and proper pool chemistry can help mitigate this issue. It’s crucial to maintain the appropriate water balance, regularly test the water, and adjust chemical levels as needed. Keeping the water chemistry within the recommended range can help preserve the gel coat and slow down the fading process.

To further protect the gel coat and extend its vibrant colors, additional precautions can be taken. This may include using pool covers when the pool is not in use, providing shade structures or umbrellas to minimize direct sunlight exposure, and using non-abrasive cleaning methods to prevent damage to the gel coat.

It’s important to note that, even with proper care, some degree of color fading may still occur over time. But it’s a gradual process that typically takes several years to become noticeable. The rate and extent of color fading can vary depending on factors such as climate, pool usage, and maintenance practices.

What is a fiberglass pool? Budgeting

Alright, so you know that fiberglass pool shells aren’t exactly cheap compared to other pool types. But it’s important to remember that the long-term benefits and lower maintenance requirements outweigh the cons for every homeowner who wants a splash of luxurious fun in their backyard. Additionally, the investment in a fiberglass pool can potentially increase the value of your property and provide you with years of enjoyment and relaxation. 

When budgeting for a fiberglass pool, it’s recommended to allocate funds not only for the pool itself but also for any additional costs, such as landscaping, fencing, permits, and ongoing maintenance expenses. Taking a comprehensive approach to budgeting will help ensure a smoother and more accurate financial planning process for your fiberglass pool project.

What is a fiberglass pool? Finding the best installer

Finding the best installer for a fiberglass pool is a crucial step in ensuring a successful and seamless pool installation process. To begin your search, it is advisable to gather recommendations and references from trusted sources, such as friends, family, or local pool associations. Conducting online research and reading customer reviews can also provide valuable insights into the reputation and track record of potential installers.

Once you’ve identified a few installers, it’s essential to schedule consultations to discuss your project in detail. During these consultations, ask about the installers’ experience and specifically their expertise in installing fiberglass pools, as well as their knowledge of local building codes and regulations. Inquire about their certifications and affiliations with industry organizations, as these can indicate a commitment to professionalism and quality standards.

What is a fiberglass pool? Wrapping up our guide

There’s no doubt that the allure of a fiberglass pool is undeniable. It’s not just about having a place to cool off on scorching July days – it’s also about creating a sanctuary that reflects your personal style and provides a backdrop for countless unforgettable moments. With their exceptional durability, minimal upkeep requirements, and endless customization options, fiberglass pools offer an unparalleled combination of practicality and luxury. 

So whether you dream of lazy afternoons lounging by the water or hosting lively poolside parties, a fiberglass pool can transform your backyard into a private oasis that’s tailored to your desires.