A standard above-ground pool is actually not a fiberglass shell at all, but is composed of a steel wall panel and supports. However, fiberglass pools can be customized by manufacturers who will "beef up" the structure by adding more fiberglass and supports that allow more of the shell to be installed above ground.
Most fiberglass pools are known to last 25-30 years, but we take that to the next level. Our manufacturer, Narellan Pools, makes the best fiberglass pools around. Their unique fiberglass formula results in a pool that can last as long as 50 years! Plus, these pools are notoriously easy to maintain.
Yes! As we said before, fiberglass pools can be inground, above ground, and even on the roof. A semi inground fiberglass pool installation will require a few new steps in the installation process, but it will definitely be an option for you if you like the look or if you live on uneven terrain.
Above-ground pools are the much-less-expensive alternative. ... Which prompts the question: Is it OK to put an above-ground pool in the ground? The answer is yes, you can.
Fiberglass pools are durable
Both the structure and the surface of a high-quality fiberglass pool can last as long as you want them to, provided you take good care of it. A well-made fiberglass pool can last at least 50 years, with less maintenance required to keep it useful and enjoyable decade after decade.
Fiberglass pools have a gel coating that can develop hairline cracks over time. These cracks typically only penetrate the gel coat and do not affect the pool's structural integrity, nor do they indicate leaks. If you see blisters as well as cracks, this is a sign that the gel coating was applied too thinly.
Composite fiberglass pools can be installed on any slope with the proper planning and development. In developing a plan for your backyard dream, it will require a flat area to accommodate the fiberglass pool. Many sites allow for installers to simply grade an area for your swimming pool and concrete.
Most fiberglass pool manufacturers aim for a total pool thickness of between 3/16” and 3/8”. The key is to achieve a proper balance of strength and flexibility. Most manufacturers try to achieve a strength to flexibility ratio of about 70/30.
Semi-inground pools offer the best of both worlds. You'll find that a semi-ground swimming pool is significantly deeper than a regular above-ground pool, but doesn't cost nearly as much as a traditional in-ground pool.
Typical INGROUND POOLS have a 3' shallow end then slope down to 8'. SEMI-INGROUND pools are typically flat bottom pools and have a constant depth of either 42" of water or 48" of water, depending on the depth of the pool wall panel.
A Common Gripe About Fiberglass Pools
One of the biggest gripes that we see have to do with the slippery surface of a fiberglass pool. The fact is, this material can be so slick that pool users can actually slip and fall. This can be a real problem for pool steps, where a slip-and-fall accident can be dangerous.
While they are easier to install, fiberglass pools are nowhere near as durable as a gunite inground pool. The inside surface of this type pool is a gel coat on which the fiberglass has been laminated. The walls of the pool are only ½ to ⅜ inch thick compared to the 8 to 10 inch thickness of a gunite pool.
Fiberglass pools are easy to maintain, quick to install, and very durable. They cost more upfront and aren't as customizable. Concrete pools are extremely durable and customizable but require heavy maintenance, the highest costs, and a slow installation.
Some properties are not perfectly level and may need retaining. Concrete pools have steel reinforced engineered walls and can act as retaining walls or out of ground structures. A creative designer can often use the pool as a retaining wall and save the client the cost of a separate structure.
The short answer is yes. By working with professional pool builders and landscapers, you can pursue pool installation even when you're dealing with a slope. However, you'll have to utilize some creativity in order to have the final result be aesthetically pleasing, functional, and safe.
A pool retaining wall is a small wall that surrounds part of a pool. The wall serves as a barrier around the pool, as well as housing for additional features such as waterfalls. These walls can range in height dramatically, from one to several feet.
For example, the smallest fiberglass pool we currently offer is the R20, which is 10 feet wide and 20 feet long. This swimming pool has bench seats on both ends and a spacious open interior. The next smallest size that we offer is a 12x24 foot swimming pool, the R24.
The cost to install an inground pool is $35,000 on average and can range from $28,000 to $55,000 and sometimes upwards of $65,000 for special customizations and extra features. An added hot tub, for example, will cost $6,000 to $15,000 and pool lighting will be another $700 to $1,800.
Creating the pool shell is the third and final step in the process. After the mold is complete and ready to use, we build the pool on top of it and then release the pool shell from the top of the mold. It only takes 1–2 days to build the pool shell.
Big disclaimer: only authorized fiberglass pool professionals should drain a pool. Never drain a pool without professional assistance. For most (if not all) pool manufacturers, an authorized dealer must drain the pool, or you may void your warranty.
Fiberglass swimming pools are very compatible with salt water systems. If you are using a vinyl liner pool, you must be careful as those pools tend to have metal parts or connections which salt will eat through and corrode.
Fiberglass in your skin can result in a painful and itchy irritation. If your skin is exposed to fiberglass, don't rub or scratch your skin. Wash the area with running water and mild soap. You can also use a washcloth to help remove the fibers.