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How Much Does It Cost to Build an In-Ground Fiberglass Swimming Pool?
Average range: $45,000 - $85,000
Low
$20,000
Average Cost
$60,000
High
$90,000
(15’ x 30’ fiberglass in-ground pool installed with a concrete deck, filter, heater, and pump)
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Pools make a fun addition to many properties, allowing you to cool off on a hot day in your backyard. Fiberglass pools are one of the more common types of in-ground pools, requiring less ongoing maintenance and electricity than other materials. In-ground pools made of fiberglass can enhance your home’s resale value and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
Fiberglass pools come in a range of sizes with several accessories. This creates a range of costs. The national average cost range for installing a fiberglass pool is $45,000 to $85,000. Most home homeowners pay around $60,000 for a 15’ x 30’ in-ground fiberglass pool with a concrete deck, filter, heater, and pump. This project’s low cost is around $20,000 for a fiberglass plunge pool fully installed. The high cost is around $90,000 for a 20’ x 40’ fiberglass pool and spa combination with a stamped concrete deck and all accessories.
Fiberglass In-Ground Pool Cost
| Fiberglass Pool Installation Cost | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $60,000 |
| Average range | $45,000-$85,000 |
| Minimum cost | $20,000 |
| Maximum cost | $90,000 |
In this guide
Fiberglass Swimming Pool Cost by Size
Fiberglass Pool Prices by Location
Average Cost of a Fiberglass Pool by Type
Fiberglass Pool Shell Cost by Shape
Fiberglass Pool Cost by Finish
Average Cost of a Fiberglass Pool by Brand
Fiberglass Pool Installation Cost
Fiberglass Pool Replacement Cost
Fiberglass Pool with a Deck
Fiberglass Pool Add-Ons
Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Cost
Fiberglass Pool Resurfacing Cost
Fiberglass Pool Pros and Cons
Fiberglass vs Concrete Pool
Fiberglass vs Vinyl Pool
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Additional Considerations
FAQs
Fiberglass Pool Prices by Location
Average Cost of a Fiberglass Pool by Type
Fiberglass Pool Shell Cost by Shape
Fiberglass Pool Cost by Finish
Average Cost of a Fiberglass Pool by Brand
Fiberglass Pool Installation Cost
Fiberglass Pool Replacement Cost
Fiberglass Pool with a Deck
Fiberglass Pool Add-Ons
Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Cost
Fiberglass Pool Resurfacing Cost
Fiberglass Pool Pros and Cons
Fiberglass vs Concrete Pool
Fiberglass vs Vinyl Pool
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Additional Considerations
FAQs
Inground Fiberglass Pool Cost by Project Range
Low
$20,000
A fiberglass plunge pool, fully installed
Average Cost
$60,000
15’ x 30’ fiberglass in-ground pool installed with a concrete deck, filter, heater, and pump
High
$90,000
20’ x 40’ fiberglass pool and spa with a stamped concrete deck and all accessories
Fiberglass Swimming Pool Cost by Size
Fiberglass 1 swimming pools come in a range of sizes. They are limited in how big they can get, with 20’ x 40’ being about the largest. They come in several sizes that mean they fit into a range of areas. Size plays a role in what you ultimately pay for the pool and installation. Most fiberglass pools are priced by their length rather than width, but there are some variations. Size is only one factor in your total cost. Ledges, stairs, deck, and accessories impact your final price tag:
| Size | Average Fiberglass Pool Costs (Installed) |
|---|---|
| 10’ x 20’ | $20,000 - $40,000 |
| 12’ x 24’ | $25,000 - $45,000 |
| 15’ x 30’ | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| 16’ x 40’ | $50,000 - $70,000 |
| 18’ x 36’ | $50,000 - $70,000 |
| 20’ x 40’ | $60,000 - $90,000 |
10’ x 20’ Fiberglass Pool Cost
The cost of a 10’ x 20’ fiberglass pool is between $20,000 and $40,000 installed. This is one of the smallest sizes of fiberglass pools. It can be used as a plunge pool or small in-ground pool. Pools of this size have fewer available features, such as zero-entry or ledges. They are large enough for recreational use, however. This size pool can be installed partially above-ground for homeowners who do not have level yards.
12’ x 24’ Fiberglass Pool Cost
A 12’ x 24’ fiberglass pool ranges from $25,000 to $45,000, fully installed. This is the most common size of “small” pool. It is large enough to do laps in but small enough to fit in most yards. This is a popular size for people who want a recreational pool but not an overly large space to maintain. It can be installed with stairs or a zero-entry and may have ledges and other features. This pool size can be installed above ground or partially above ground.
15’ x 30’ Fiberglass Pool Cost
A 15’ x 30’ fiberglass pool averages $40,000 to $60,000, fully installed. This is one of the most common sizes for fiberglass in-ground pools. It is large enough for several recreational and athletic purposes but still fits in many yards. Pools of this size can have many features. They can also be shaped in more ways. A pool of this size can have zero entry, stairs, ledges, and seats.
16’ x 40’ Fiberglass Pool Cost
A 16’ x 40’ fiberglass pool costs between $50,000 and $70,000. This is the largest length of fiberglass pool available. It is good for those who want to use their pools for exercise because the length makes it good for laps. Pools of this size also come with several features. They can have separate “spa” sections with seating or stairs, ledges, and other options. To accommodate a pool this size, you must have a larger-than-average yard.
18’ x 36’ Fiberglass Pool Cost
An 18’ x 36’ fiberglass pool ranges from $50,000 to $70,000. This is a popular size pool for recreational purposes. It is large enough for different sections and features. It can have a zero entry, stairs, or separate spa areas. Pools of this size also come in different shapes, such as kidney or Roman. Due to this pool’s size, you need a larger-than-average yard.
20’ x 40’ Fiberglass Pool Cost
A 20’ x 40’ fiberglass pool averages $60,000 to $90,000, fully installed. Pools of this size can have a full range of features. This pool is large enough for recreation or exercise. It can be used for laps or have a spa section and other recreational features. These pools should be fully in the ground. They also require a significant amount of space.
Fiberglass Pool Prices by Location
Most fiberglass pools must be installed in the ground. Some smaller pools may be installed partially above ground. This can be done by backfilling partway up the pool’s sides for support or creating a raised deck. Fiberglass pools should never be used entirely above ground without support. There is little difference between the two types in cost because of this support, with the exception that most pools that can be used partially above ground tend to be smaller and less expensive than larger pools installed in-ground:
| Location | Average Fiberglass Pool Costs (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Above-Ground | $20,000 - $45,000 |
| In-Ground | $20,000 - $90,000 |
Above-Ground Fiberglass Pools Price
Above-ground fiberglass pools cost between $20,000 and $45,000, fully installed or $7,000 to $10,000 for the material. Fiberglass pools are made of a thin, flexible, and durable shell. But that shell is not meant to sit on the ground and act as an above-ground pool. It can be partially placed in-ground and backfilled. This is a good choice if you do not have a level yard. You can also build a raised deck around the pool, provided the deck is solid enough to provide support, such as a concrete deck or a wooden deck that has been backfilled beneath the surface.
Fiberglass In-Ground Pool Cost
The cost of a fiberglass in-ground pool ranges from $20,000 to $90,000 when fully installed. All fiberglass pools can be installed in-ground. This is their intended purpose. They are a popular in-ground pool because once the shell is made, the entire installation can be done in a few days. From the time you order the shell and start the process to when you are enjoying your pool is only a few weeks. Fiberglass in-ground pools are also very durable, low maintenance, and unlikely to develop leaks long term.
Average Cost of a Fiberglass Pool by Type
Like many pool materials, fiberglass pools come in several types. When looking for something beyond the typical backyard pool for recreation, you may want to consider some of these other types. Many can be used in smaller yards, so they can be a good fit if you want a pool but do not have much room.
| Type of Pool | Average Fiberglass Pool Costs (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Drop-In | $20,000 - $30,000 |
| Plunge | $20,000 - $30,000 |
| Cocktail | $20,000 - $40,000 |
| Pool and Spa Combo | $20,000 - $90,000 |
| Saltwater | $20,000 - $90,000 |
| Lap | $40,000 - $65,000 |
| Infinity | $90,000 - $110,000 |
Fiberglass Drop-In Pool Cost
The cost of a fiberglass drop-in pool ranges from $20,000 and $30,000. Drop-in pools are small above-ground pools. They are dropped into a deck rather than set into the ground. This is one of the few ways to create a fiberglass above-ground pool. By building a custom deck with supports and dropping the pool into it, you can have an above-ground pool. This pool’s lip or edge is visible rather than hidden beneath coping like an in-ground pool.
Fiberglass Plunge Pool Cost
The cost of a fiberglass plunge pool is between $20,000 and $30,000, fully installed. Plunge pools are small pools meant for cooling off, not swimming. They can be installed in-ground or above-ground in a drop-in or backfilled style. Plunge pools are good for people without much space but who want a way to get cool and wet in the hotter months. Fiberglass plunge pools are more limited than some other materials due to size. They may be larger and more expensive than you can find with vinyl or concrete.
Fiberglass Cocktail Pool Cost
A fiberglass cocktail pool averages $20,000 to $40,000, fully installed. Cocktail pools are small-sized pools that also have some spa elements. They can be drop-in or fully in-ground. They often include jets and heaters. They frequently have bench seating around the edges. The idea is you can use this pool to cool off on hot days or as a large jetted pool on cooler days.
Fiberglass Pool and Spa Combo Cost
Fiberglass pool and spa combos cost between $20,000 and $90,000. This pool can be a cocktail pool, a “spool,” or a much larger pool with a separate spa area. Some larger pools have a small circular area at one end. This area can be jetted with a heater, which can make it a spa section. There are many ways to set up a pool and spa combo. Cocktail pools are the ideal solution for saving space, while the larger versions are best done in oversized yards.
Fiberglass Saltwater Pool Cost
The cost of a fiberglass saltwater pool ranges from $20,000 to $90,000, fully installed. Any fiberglass pool can be converted to a saltwater pool. All you need is to install a saltwater generator, which converts the salt you add to the pool into chlorine 2. Saltwater pools have lower chemical and maintenance costs. The water is also softer and less harsh on the skin. Saltwater pools can damage your surrounding landscaping, so make sure your pool has a wide deck.
Fiberglass Lap Pool Cost
The cost of a fiberglass lap pool averages $40,000 to $65,000. Lap pools are long, thin in-ground pools. They are designed for exercise rather than recreation. They are usually about 40’ long - the maximum that the fiberglass pool can be built. They are often not very wide, measuring between 6’ and 12’ wide, depending on the number of intended users. This can be a good option for those who want their pool for exercise but do not have the width for a larger pool.
Fiberglass Infinity Pools Cost
The cost of a fiberglass infinity pool is between $90,000 and $110,000. Infinity pools make a beautiful statement on any property. They have an edge where the water cascades over the pool into a small basin below. The water is pumped 3 up and back into the main area. This creates an endless or infinity edge for the pool. Due to the shape and the extra mechanics involved, this pool tends to be much more expensive. Because one edge is exposed, the rest of the pool sides must be backfilled to support the pool.
Fiberglass Pool Shell Cost by Shape
Unlike vinyl 4 and concrete pools, fiberglass pools cannot be created in endless designs or shapes. They are limited in what molds a particular company produces. There are still numerous designs to choose from, however. The most common is the rectangle, which comes in many dimensions. However, it must have a maximum length of 40’.
Readily available shapes for fiberglass pools from most companies include:
- Rectangular
- Roman
- Kidney
- Freeform/Lagoon
Many companies have subtly different designs to choose from. These may include a rectangle with a zero entry at one end or a kidney with a small, round “spa” section at one side. There are also several freeform/lagoon shapes to choose from if you find that one works better with your yard’s shape.
The pool’s shape does not necessarily impact the cost, however. Because the molds are already made, it is just a matter of pouring. The pool’s size dictates the shell’s cost.
| Shell Size | Average Costs (Shell Only) |
|---|---|
| < 26’ Long | $10,000 - $15,000 |
| 27’ - 34’ Long | $13,000 - $20,000 |
| 35’ - 40’ Long | $15,000 - $30,000 |
Rectangular Fiberglass Pool Shell
Rectangles are the most common shape for fiberglass shells, coming in different dimensions and features. They may be zero entry or gently slope into the pool. They may have stairs or a ledge or a seat in one section. Every pool company has a set of molds, so they could have additional features for their rectangular pools. Not all features are available in all sizes.
Roman Fiberglass Pool
Roman fiberglass pools are a very common and popular design. This is a rectangular pool with rounded edges. It is not quite oval but has a softer appearance than a strict rectangle. These pools also come in different dimensions and can have many features. It is common for these pools to have stairs in one corner. Another corner may be enlarged to create a seating area. Each company has unique designs and sizes for these pools.
Kidney-Shaped Fiberglass Pool Prices
Kidney-shaped fiberglass pools are fairly common. Like other fiberglass pool shells, they are available in several dimensions and sizes. They can also have different features. Sometimes, a small seating area is created at one end. Other times, you may have a zero-entry section on the long side. This is a good shape for many features, but it does not have much room.
Lagoon Fiberglass Pool
Lagoon pools are sometimes called freeform pools. These pools come in an incredible range of varying shapes. Many companies have several freeform designs to choose from. Some may have added stairs, ledges, and seating areas, while others may be completely plain. Some can have zero-entry sides, and others can be the same depth throughout. When choosing this pool, think about how it interacts with your landscaping and which features you want.
Fiberglass Pool Cost by Finish
All fiberglass 1 pools have a gel-coat finish applied to the pool’s surface. This finish can have different looks and colors, including flecked, metallic, and solid.
This finish’s application varies by manufacturer. Most manufacturers use a solid finish, which means one layer of material is used to create the finish. Others use a multi-coat finish. This gives a more interesting finish because they can apply different tones and finishes on top of one another for a unique color and design.
This multi-layer finish can be problematic in the long run, however. Fiberglass gel coats eventually develop cracks. A solid-surface gel coat is easy to repair and more closely matches the original color. A multi-finish surface is more difficult to match when repairing, which means the patch likely shows.
Multi-step gel coats cost more than solid surfaces. So, your finished and installed pool is less expensive if you opt for a solid surface. Below are the total costs for your installed pool if you choose a solid surface versus a multi-coat finish. Generally, choosing a multi-coat finish adds $10,000 to $20,000.
| Finish | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Solid Surface | $20,000 - $70,000 |
| Multi-Coat | $30,000 - $90,000 |
Average Cost of a Fiberglass Pool by Brand
Many pool companies make pools that they install. This means they have their own molds and create the pool onsite. Some companies, however, may sell an established brand of pool and only do the installation. Costs vary between brands, mostly on things like the finish and features.
| Brand | Average Costs (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Viking | $22,000 - $55,000 |
| Latham | $30,000 - $70,000 |
| Alaglas | $33,000 - $85,000 |
| Blue Hawaiian | $35,000 - $60,000 |
| San Juan | $35,000 - $90,000 |
| Aspen | $47,000 - $90,000 |
Viking Pool Shell Prices
Viking pools cost between $22,000 and $55,000, completely installed. Viking is typically sold with one of a few packages. This means you choose your pool and the level of installation and customization. Basic pool packages cost less but have the fewest options. Their mid-tier packages offer additional features like lights and computer-operated chlorinators 2. Their high-end packages offer the most choices for style and features.
Latham Fiberglass Pool Cost
Latham fiberglass pools range from $30,000 to $70,000 installed. Latham’s pools come in two installation types. Their basic installation includes the excavation, shell, backfill, and hookup, but little else. Their turn-key installation costs more but includes the pool deck or patio, lights, different finishes, and a range of features. Both packages have a range of costs, depending on the pool size. They have a wide range of sizes and shapes to choose from, which impact your final cost.
Alaglas Swimming Pools Price
Alaglas pools cost between $33,000 and $85,000 installed. Alaglas puts a particular emphasis on their pools’ strength and durability. All fiberglass pools are built from multiple layers of material. Alaglas goes beyond the normal amount of material to ensure a strong, durable shell. They have a very wide range of pools to choose from, including some small patio-sized pools. This smaller range can mean they fit in more yards and areas than other pools.
Blue Hawaiian Fiberglass Pool Prices
Blue Hawaiian fiberglass pools average $35,000 to $60,000 installed. Blue Hawaiian is the manufacturer and installer of fiberglass, vinyl, and gunite 5 pools. All their pools include the same level of installation, accessories, and features, regardless of which pool you choose. This includes the permits, excavation, installation, backfill, and equipment. All equipment that comes standard is basic-grade. You can upgrade for a higher cost.
San Juan Fiberglass Pool Prices
San Juan fiberglass pools range from $35,000 to $90,000 installed. San Juan has been making and exporting fiberglass pools since 1958. They have a wide range of shapes to choose from. Some of their pools include unique features, such as tanning ledges and double sets of stairs. They also have unique shapes not found in other companies. Their total installation cost depends on the number of additional features you choose and the level of installation package you select.
Aspen Fiberglass Pool Cost
Aspen fiberglass pools cost between $47,000 and $90,000. These are large fiberglass pools designed for in-ground use only. They have features like tanning ledges and a unique wall material infused with fabric. They come in several sizes, and there are some feature variations. Costs depend on the size and installation type. Adding more features increases the costs.
Fiberglass Pool Installation Cost
Because a fiberglass pool shell is made off-site, most of the labor in building the pool is in the excavation, dirt hauling, and deck installation. For most pool projects, excavation is done first, then the pool is shipped and lowered into place. It is then backfilled, with dirt tightly encasing the walls on all sides. The deck and coping are installed, and then the equipment, including the pump, filter, heater, and other features. If you choose a high-end pool package, the pool can be finished with tiles and other options before it is filled with water.
Every pool installation is different. Some require rocky terrain blasting, while others may not. Some need additional backfilling for things like an infinity edge. Depending on where you live, you may need to have water brought in by a truck to fill your pool, or you can fill it with a hose.
A loose breakdown of costs for installing a pool may include:
| Area | Cost |
|---|---|
| Permits | $200 - $750 |
| Excavation and Backfill | $500 - $3,500 |
| Blasting Rocky Terrain | $600 - $7,200 |
| Fiberglass Shell | $10,000 - $30,000 |
| Shell Installation | $5,000 - $7,000 |
| Equipment Installation | $5,000 - $7,000 |
| Decking Installation | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Pool Finishing | $3,000 - $5,000 |
| Water | $300 - $400 |
Fiberglass Pool Replacement Cost
Fiberglass pools can last for decades with little repair, but they age and may need replacing in some cases. You may also find your current pool 6 is no longer meeting your needs. In this case, you may want to invest in a larger pool or a differently shaped or formed pool.
Fiberglass pool replacements have all the same costs as a new pool installation, with additional costs for removing the current pool. This includes unhooking its equipment and often removing the deck because the coping holding the pool in the ground extends to the deck. This can increase your total costs by $20,000 to $30,000, making the total cost range $65,000 to $115,000, depending on the pool size and type.
Fiberglass Pool with a Deck
Nearly all fiberglass pool costs include a concrete deck in their total. Only the most basic installations do not include at least some type of decking. This is partly because the pool must have some concrete coping installed around the edge as part of its installation. However, you can upgrade your deck to another material if you do not want a concrete deck. Most pool decks 7 use the same material as patios and have similar pricing.
| Material | Average Costs per Sq.Ft. (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Concrete | $6 - $10 |
| Stone | $10 - $40 |
| Tile | $15 - $20 |
| Stamped Concrete | $15 - $30 |
| Flagstone | $15 - $30 |
| Paver | $16 - $25 |
Fiberglass Pool Add-Ons
Most fiberglass pools also have various equipment installed as part of the package. These include the filter, pump, heater, and sometimes lighting. If you choose, you can upgrade or add additional features.
| Add-On | Average Costs |
|---|---|
| Water Features | $250 - $15,000 |
| Lighting | $450 - $1,200 |
| Filter | $500 - $2,000 |
| Robotic Cleaner | $600 - $1,000 |
| Pump | $700 - $1,300 |
| Cover | $2,700 - $3,700 |
| Heater | $3,450 - $5,450 |
| Retaining Wall | $3,500 - $10,000 |
Fiberglass Pool Water Features
Water features range from $250 to $15,000. Water features are less common on fiberglass pools than on other pools. This is mostly due to how the shell is formed. Fiberglass pools lack a deep end. Water features are most commonly installed in deeper sections of the pool for the best effect. That said, you could have a smaller feature installed on a fiberglass pool, even though larger features are not recommended.
Fiberglass Pool Lighting
Lighting costs between $450 and $1,200. Some high-end fiberglass installation packages include lighting in the pool walls. This needs to be specified at the time of order for it to be added. You can add other types of lighting to the pool, such as perimeter lighting. Lights can make your pool and pool area usable in the evening and nighttime hours. This makes them a good investment for many pools.
Fiberglass Pool Filter
The cost of a pool filter averages $500 to $2,000. Most fiberglass pool installations include a basic filter in the package. You can upgrade to a higher-quality filter if desired. Filters keep your pool clean. The pump circulates the water through the filter to remove sediment and debris. If you live in an area where falling debris may frequently land on your pool surface, you may want to upgrade to a more efficient filter.
Robotic Pool Cleaner
The cost of a robotic pool cleaner ranges from $600 to $1,000. Robotic pool cleaners keep the bottom of your pool clean. They are not used as often on fiberglass pools as on different pools. This is because fiberglass pools are not as deep as other pools. They are easier to clean and less likely to need robots to reach the bottom. However, they can make keeping your pool clean more convenient, regardless of the size.
Pool Pump
The cost of a pool pump is between $700 and $1,300. Pool pumps push the water through your filter and keep it circulating. Pumps come in many sizes, depending on your pool’s size and how often you want the water to turn over. Most fiberglass pool installation packages include a basic pump. If you choose, you can upgrade it to a more efficient or silent model. Pumps with dual or varying speeds are more efficient than those with single speeds.
Pool Cover
The cost of a pool cover averages $2,700 to $3,700. Covers are a good addition to any pool if you plan on closing it for part of the year. Covers help keep your pool clean when not in use. Some can also keep your pool safer. Pool covers come in mesh and solid forms. Each has positive and negative attributes to consider, with mesh being lighter but letting sunlight through, which can promote algae growth. Solid is heavier but blocks the sun.
Heater
The cost of a pool heater ranges from $3,450 to $5,450. Basic fiberglass pool installations do not typically come with heaters. However, premium packages usually include a heater in the package price. Pool heaters can make your pool more comfortable to swim in on colder days. There are many heaters, which use different fuels. Each has costs and an expense to run.
Retaining Wall
The cost of a retaining wall is between $3,500 and $10,000. Retaining walls can be added to the area around your pool. This is a good addition if your pool is built into the side of a hill because it can prevent soil erosion. Retaining walls can also offer seating and help your pool area blend in with your landscaping. Sometimes, a retaining wall can be used with backfill in a partial above-ground pool installation. The cost is dependent on the retaining wall and its length.
Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Cost
Swimming pools of any material need to be properly maintained to keep them safe to use. This can be done yourself, or you can hire a professional pool maintenance company to keep your pool at its best.
The average homeowner spends around $250 for DIY pool cleaning each month, while others spend an additional $90 to $270 for professional maintenance.
This includes:
- Testing and balancing the chemicals.
- Testing and adjusting the temperature.
- Running the filter.
- Vacuuming the bottom of the pool.
- Brushing down the sides of the pool.
- Skimming the surface of leaves and debris.
- Adjusting the water levels.
- Lubricating and fitting all the pipes, valves, and parts when opening the pool.
- Uncovering and covering the pool at opening and closing.
Fiberglass Pool Resurfacing Cost
Fiberglass pools are finished with a gel-coat surface. This is a long-lasting finish that lasts for decades. Occasionally, a pool may lose its gel coat. When this happens, it must be resurfaced. Gel coat can only be applied in a factory setting, but some finishes can be used to resurface. They go on in hours and take about 24 hours to cure. They cost $10,000 to $20,000 for a complete resurfacing.
Fiberglass Pool Pros and Cons
Fiberglass 1 pools are one of the most popular options for backyard pools. They can install in just a few weeks and last for decades with little- to-no maintenance. They do not promote algae growth, so you need fewer chemicals to maintain them. They also come in a wide range of sizes and varying shapes.
Fiberglass pools are shallow, so they cannot be used for diving. They are also somewhat restricted in size due to how they are delivered. While most manufacturers have several shapes to choose from, you cannot customize their design.
Fiberglass vs Concrete Pool
Fiberglass and concrete pools are popular for backyard use. They are very different from one another. Fiberglass pools are factory-made, delivered, and dropped into your yard, while concrete pools are built onsite. This makes fiberglass pools faster and easier to install and less expensive. Fiberglass pools also last longer with less maintenance.
However, concrete pools can be endlessly customized, while fiberglass cannot. Concrete pools are available in any shape, size, and depth, while fiberglass is limited in these areas.
Fiberglass vs Vinyl Pool
Another pool frequently compared with fiberglass is vinyl. Vinyl pools are less expensive than fiberglass initially, but they need their liner replaced frequently. This makes their lifetime cost higher than that of a fiberglass pool. Vinyl pools can be customized and come in any shape, size, and depth. Fiberglass pools are more limited in these areas, but they install slightly faster than vinyl.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Mosaic Inlays
Waterline mosaics can add a decorative touch to your fiberglass pool. These are small tiles made of glass or ceramic installed just at and above the waterline, but you can have them cover the entire pool. They come in many shapes and styles and can enhance the pool’s look. Mosaics cost $75 to $100 per square foot installed.
Pool Enclosure
Enclosures are a popular way to keep your pool safe and clean and get more use year-round. Enclosures may be mesh or glass-walled, or they may be as simple as a fence. The average enclosure costs around $10,000 to $30,000 to install.
Pool Fence
Fences are integral to pools. They keep the area safe for young children and pets who may wander onto your property. Pool fences can be made of any fencing material, and their cost is driven by how large the area is you are enclosing. The average cost is around $3,000 to $10,000, including the gate.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Permits. In some areas, a building permit may be necessary before beginning construction. Costs vary by town and region. Typically, your builder advises you about the process and if a permit is necessary, but it is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the necessary permits are pulled.
- DIY. Pools are not generally considered DIY projects because of the amount of excavating involved. You need to take care not to hit utilities and to ensure the proper backfill is used and the area is leveled 8. However, there are parts that many homeowners do DIY, including the deck.
- Kits. Some swimming pool companies offer a fiberglass pool as an all-in-one kit. This takes the guesswork out of pricing and allows for some degree of DIY. Generally, even if you opt for the kit, it is best to have a professional evaluate your yard and do the excavating before proceeding. The total for the kit is around $15,000 to $20,000.
- Guarantee. When purchasing a swimming pool, always ask the company or manufacturer if they have any warranty or guarantee on the pool, lining, and/or installation. If so, get this in writing to ensure you have something to fall back on.
- Location. Fiberglass pools can be used anywhere, but they are particularly useful in certain areas. Because they are not deep and use a specific backfill, they can be used in regions with high water tables. They can also withstand cold winters because they hold heat well and are not affected by freeze/thaw cycles.
- Stairs. Fiberglass pools are made of one piece, so they do not have separate steps or stairs. If you choose to have stairs, you need to choose a design that includes this option. Costs may be slightly higher for these shells than those without steps.
FAQs
- What is the average cost of a fiberglass in-ground pool?
The average cost of a 15’ x 30’ fiberglass in-ground pool is around $60,000 installed.
- Can a fiberglass pool pop out of the ground?
Fiberglass pools cannot pop out of the ground alone. They can, however, be lifted out in one piece if replacement or refill of the pool area is desired.
- Do fiberglass pools last?
Fiberglass pools last between 25 and 50 years when they are well maintained. Choose a model with a good-quality gel coat to ensure it lasts.
- Is a fiberglass pool cheaper than concrete?
Fiberglass pools cost less than concrete pools of the same size - $60,000 versus $90,000 for the same-sized pool.
- Do fiberglass pools need to be resurfaced?
It is rare, but they occasionally need to be resurfaced. In most cases, the pool’s gel coat is designed to last, but it can develop spider cracks if you have a lower-quality gel coat. When this happens, it must be resurfaced.
Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet
Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.See full cheat sheet.
1 Fiberglass: Plastic that is reinforced with glass fibers. The fibers may be mixed randomly throughout the plastic, or come in the form of a flat sheet, or be woven into a fabric
2 Chlorine: A chemical added to the water in a swimming pool to kill bacteria and microorganisms that can make people sick
3 Pumped: A device used to move air, liquid, or gas by mechanical means
4 Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others
5 Gunite: A type of concrete used for building concrete pools, lining tunnels, and structural repair. It is applied by being sprayed through a pressure hose, and produces a dense, hard layer of concrete
6 Current pool: A swimming pool that generates a current, enabling the user to continue swimming "endlessly" without making forward progress. This allows the size of the pool to be much smaller than a traditional pool
7 Pool decks: Decorative border or edging around a swimming pool, often including a fence
8 Leveled: The process of evening out the ground's surface, making it either flat or sloped.
How much does it cost to build an in-ground fiberglass swimming pool in my city?
Cost to build an in-ground fiberglass swimming pool varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.
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