How Much a Fiberglass Pool Cost: A Complete Guide

On average, a fiberglass pool is more expensive than a concrete pool. However, for the additional cost you get additional durability, an easier pool to clean, and a unique finish. There are a few downsides as well, though, that should be considered.

Here's what to know about how much a fiberglass pool costs so you're fully informed before you make your decision.

Cost of the Average Fiberglass Pool

On average a fiberglass pool will cost from $21,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that go into the average cost for a fiberglass pool, such as location, type, excavation needed, and special features chosen.

Factors Impacting Fiberglass Pool Cost

When trying to estimate total cost of a fiberglass pool there are a few elements that will affect cost more than others. Some of the bigger considerations are type, shape, and size.

Type effects cost by determining the amount, kind, and size of the mechanicals, which can quickly drive up costs. Shape can greatly affect cost as well, depending if your pool is premade off site in a factory, or custom molded to a unique shape or landscaped feature onsite, which could greatly increase work hours and as a result, cost. Finally, size is another major consideration that effects cost. The larger the pool, the larger the cost.

Type of Pool

There are several different types of fiberglass pools for a variety of uses that all effect cost differently.

• A lap pool (shaped like a pool lap rectangle made for swimming laps) is usually more expensive because of its long and narrow nature, but it is an excellent choice
  for smaller areas.

• An infinity pool, with its one or several edges that seem to blend in to the surrounding area, needs additional plumbing and a lower edge, which can drive up costs compared to a standard installation.

• A drop-in fiberglass pool is a cheaper option for a full size pool because it is simply dropped into place and premade offsite. Additional costs for this type of pool are from groundwork for the location of the pool and the plumbing and electrical work needed.

• An in-ground pool is built like a concrete pool but has a fiberglass skin put on top, and it's one of the more expensive options because you are building a concrete pool with a fiberglass layer on top.

• A cocktail pool is a much smaller version of a regular sized pool, and it will have a lower cost due to its size.

Can You Have an Above-Ground Fiberglass Pool?

Shape

Shape of a fiberglass pool can also affect cost. A premade rectangle or square are the cheapest options, because they are standard shapes and can be made offsite easily and efficiently.

If a custom shape is desired, such as a kidney or one that runs along a rock wall, then the pool has to be made onsite, increasing labor hours and cost due to the custom nature. The fiberglass would have to be layered by hand until the desired shape is attained.

Size

Size is one of the first characteristics to think about when considering the cost of a fiberglass pool. A smaller size pool is easier to make and transport as well as install, which keeps costs low. Also, a smaller pool requires less chemicals and smaller or less equipment, which will keep install and operation costs low.

A larger pool will need more materials to fabricate and larger machinery to install. And a larger fiberglass pool will need more chemicals and larger machinery to keep itself clean and functioning correctly. All this can quickly drive up costs on a larger pool.

Fiberglass Pool Installation Costs

The two main components of most fiberglass pools are the concrete surround or gravel backfill and the fiberglass pool itself. The cost of these two items depends on a few factors related to the desired pool, primarily the shape.

A smaller, rectangular pool that can be premade and delivered will cost much less than a comparable pool with bends and turns in it. This is because a custom pool cannot be made with a premade mold and will have to be made by hand. This also applies to the concrete surround, because a rectangular or square pool is significantly easier to make concrete forms for than a custom shape.

Custom Add-on Costs

Usually when installing a pool it will come with certain add-ons. Some common add-ons are heat pumps, automatic pool covers, lights, and slides. Depending on what these add-ons need can affect cost.

For example, a heat pump could cost anywhere from $2,100 to $4,500. This is because a heat pump requires additional plumbing and power in addition to the actual cost of the unit. To install a cover on a fiberglass pool, it can cost $760 to $2,500. If your pool is an irregular shape or powered, a cover will cost more than a similar square or rectangular shaped pool.

Lights and slides are also common add-ons but can vary in price depending on quantity or options. More lights will cost more money and require more wiring, which could cost $700 to $1,800. A slide can also vary in cost depending on size and options and can go anywhere from $100 for a plastic slide to $10,000 for a custom one.

Maintenance Costs

For regular maintenance for a fiberglass pool, expect to pay $600 to $1,200 per season.

Maintenance requirements for a fiberglass pool compared to a concrete and vinyl pool are similar, with a greater emphasis on cleaning. With a fiberglass pool it is important to keep the water line clean to prevent staining. Like with any pool, it is necessary to check the water chemistry regularly and make repairs in a timely manner.

It's worth noting that fiberglass pools are harder to patch, so if you ever do get a leak it will be more costly to repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will a fiberglass pool last before it needs to be replaced?

On average, a fiberglass pool can last 20 to 30 years before needing to be replaced, as long as it gets proper care.

What is the disadvantage of having a fiberglass pool?

The main disadvantage of a fiberglass pool is they generally have a size limit of 40 x 16 feet due to shipping limitations. If you would like a fiberglass pool bigger than this, it will have to be custom made which greatly increases costs.

Read the original article on The Spruce.