Most other inground swimming pools are more difficult and time-consuming to install than fiberglass pools. The cost of a fiberglass pool varies depending on where you reside. However, some general principles help you estimate the price range. These pools are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you’ll be able to pick one that meets both your aesthetic preferences and your needs. So, how much would a fiberglass pool set you back? Let’s have a look at it in more detail.

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Fiberglass Pool Quotes

Not all quotes about fiberglass pools have the same level of information. It is important that you get a price that includes installation, labor, and any extra fees you might anticipate. Most homeowners overlook finishing details like landscaping and decking for their pool areas. These details can add a lot of money to the project’s overall budget.

When you get an estimate from a reliable swimming pool installer, you’ll want to examine a breakdown of the cost of labor and supplies. Inquire about the estimated time of installation, the number of hours budgeted in the quote, the pool warranty, and the quality of the materials. It’s also a good idea to inquire about the finishing of the area around the pool. Also, if that work is included in the quote, which isn’t always the case.

Estimate Fiberglass Pool Cost to Expect

The cost of a fiberglass pool installation varies depending on the pool’s quality and your area. But there are some main price ranges we can go over to get a sense of how much a pool will cost and how much you should budget.

For instance, in Florida and Alabama, the cost is between $15,000 and $55,000 on average. In Michigan, a swimming pool costs between $25,000 and $65,000, whereas a swimming pool in California costs between $20,000 and $60,000.

However, because there are so many factors to consider, including customization, it’s impossible to give a precise figure. Pool labor costs are around $15,000, with the pool and associated components costing around $30,000. As a result, the total cost is around $45,000.

Fiberglass Pools Cost Analysis by Size

While your pool’s cost varies depending on where you live, your pool’s size will also play a role. These are some of the various types of fiberglass pools available and how much they cost.

• It will cost you between $15,000 and $40,000 for a plunge pool. Because of their small size, these are the most cost-effective options. They’re usually 6 feet by 12 feet, with a depth of 4 to 6 feet.
• It will cost you between $20,000 and $62,000 for an above-ground fiberglass pool. Since fiberglass frames are far more resilient than most above-ground swimming pools, they will need less maintenance and last for years.

Materials and Labor Costs

With the shells of fiberglass pools varying in price from $4,500 to $30,000, it is best to take your pool’s size into consideration. Consider the additional costs that come with each additional square foot. Labor costs will average about $5.50 per sq. ft. Expect to pay up to double that amount in areas with higher living costs.

Aside from the fiberglass shell’s cost, there’s also the cost of shipping, building site excavation, and components like the filtration pump to consider. Backfilling the area around your pool will cost less than the initial digging. Then there’s the cost of decking material and any other landscape work you need.

Most homeowners desire to create a fiberglass pool as a do-it-yourself job. However, doing so involves a significant amount of expert knowledge, equipment, and time. Most homeowners like to do their landscaping and decking once they install the fiberglass pool.

You’ll want a breakdown of labor costs distinct from materials costs as part of your installer’s quote. Most installers budget for a five-person team to install a fiberglass pool. Labor estimates are also frequently dependent on the square footage of your pool.

Costs for Different Installation Methods

Although some homeowners prefer to install the pool themselves, there’s no embarrassment in seeking the services of a reliable pool contractor. We’ll go over the many installation types available and you can watch for each one in the sections below.

Assisted and DIY installations

Assisted installations are a popular choice for homeowners who want to save money. They do some of the work themselves or work with a professional who can offer advice during the installation. A lot of the time, people who help with installation will include the pump, pool, filter system, and all plumbing work.

In assisted, the homeowner is responsible for most of the excavation and finishing jobs and backfilling around the pool after building. The least known and most important sections of the process, such as laying the shell in place, pool leveling, and installing all of the plumbing-related equipment, are the work of specialists.

An entire do-it-yourself installation necessitates the homeowner overseeing every phase of the process. This is from pool selection to shipping and getting all the necessary tools and components. In addition, DIY requires that you follow local rules, get the necessary permits, and learn about local construction and safety rules while you do the job.

Standard

A concrete deck that will range from 400 to 800 sq. ft. is usually included in a standard installation around the perimeter of the pool. Most budget-conscious homeowners choose this design. This lets them install a fence and other finishing touches afterward. It is easy to install concrete patios, but they take some time to cure and maintain.

If local construction rules need fencing, some pool builders will incorporate it as part of their standard installation package. If the quote does not include fencing, it’s not a bad idea to inquire about the cost. This will allow you to start using the pool sooner and stay in compliance with all local building codes.

Turn-Key Installation

The term refers to everything you need to install a basic fiberglass pool, including fencing, electricity, and fencing costs. This choice is ideal for those who want to outsource all parts of their pool installation, which includes landscaping and decking.

The scope of this installation might differ from one installer to the next. Therefore, it is important that you double-check what services are included in the pool installation package. It usually costs between $48,000 and $80,000 to build a high-quality pool with this option.

Additional Costs for a Do-It-Yourself Installation

For a do-it-yourself-installation, you’ll need a variety of tools as well as enough time to complete all of the processes. You will require heavy excavation equipment, plumbing gear, and backfilling once you install the pool.

You might also need permits in your location, and if you plan to build a retaining wall or concrete deck, you’ll need concrete tools. The electrical work, which should be done by a certified electrician, and the cleanup of dirt left over after the excavation is two additional charges. Although hauling the dirt away is not usually costly, it might not be easy to find a location for it to go in some places.

Other paving in the area, like the driveway or sidewalk, can be damaged by heavy machinery. It’s possible that you’ll need to patch up cracked asphalt or concrete, as well as pave a wide way for moving and installing your new pool.

Another cost is topsoil, as this soil is unlikely to be appropriate for planting sod or grass. For the topmost layer, where you want to add landscaping plants, you’ll want to opt for finished-grade soil or something better. When doing the project yourself, remember that you do not have to do all the landscaping and other finishing touches at the same time. As your budget and time allow, you can take on these minor undertakings.

Prices for Fiberglass Pool Shells

There are instances when a homeowner will merely buy a fiberglass pool shell and install it themselves. This is a viable choice if you’re willing to put in the effort and focus on the finer points of the procedure. There will be some fiberglass pool shell price variance, but below is a general breakdown.

• Small shells with a length of fewer than 26 feet cost between $10,000 and $19,000.
• Medium shells with a length of 27 to 34 feet cost $13,000 to $20,000 on average.
• The cost of a large shell over 35 feet ranges from $15,000 to $27,000.

The fiberglass shell does not include any of the pool’s components or accessories, and the installation process comes with lots of extra fees to consider.

Costs and common add-ons

If you are trying to figure out how much a pool would cost, the small add-ons can quickly add up. For instance, most neglect to fill their pools after installation. This process takes several hours and a lot of gallons of water to complete. Not all fiberglass pools are ready to use right away, and the time invested is an additional non-monetary cost that many homeowners ignore.

Adding the finishing touches

• Pool accessories, such as ladders, pool chemicals, a secure pool cover, diving boards, and cleaning tools, can quickly add up.
• Another thing to think about is lighting. While perimeter tile and lighting are frequently included in quotes, lighting updates can be costly.
• Another cost to take into consideration is landscaping and other finishing. In some cases, installing a fence might have to meet local building codes.
• You can buy a concrete deck or wood deck, but you’ll have to wait for it to cure before you can use the pool area.

Water features will also increase the cost of your pool, and if you have a hot tub, you should expect additional heating costs. Water jets are optional pool additions. But most homeowners find that they improve pool water circulation and keep the pool cleaner.

Nowadays, many fiberglass pool owners are also inquiring about beach entries. A fiberglass pool with this feature will set you back an extra $7,000 on top of the pool’s overall cost.

If your pool is a little bit above the ground, you may need a retaining wall depending on the landscaping you need around it. Other water toys and patio furniture are other items of cost to take into consideration. Also, how much and what you require will mostly rely on your available space and preferences.

Costs of Maintaining a Fiberglass Pool

These pools need the same basic maintenance as a regular pool. They are, in fact, one of the most low-maintenance choices available. In addition, it means they are less expensive to run.

You should clean a fiberglass pool the same way you clean a regular pool. Make sure you clean, brush, and sanitize your pool on a regular basis. When scrubbing your pool liner, take care not to use too many harsh chemicals, or you’ll end up damaging the gel coat.

Overall, if you are planning to carry out all of the pool maintenance yourself, expect to pay roughly $40-$80 each month. You can also hire a professional at roughly $80-$200 for the work.

A Cost Comparison of Vinyl, Concrete, Fiberglass Pools

A vinyl pool costs around $10,000 less than a fiberglass one, but you should replace your pool liner every 5 to 9 years. Depending on the size and materials used, a vinyl pool might cost anywhere from $22,000 to $50,000.

Fiberglass and concrete are very inexpensive upfront, but fiberglass is less expensive over time. The reason is that fiberglass is non-porous and low maintenance, which helps keep pool chemicals, water, and heat from draining out.

On average, a concrete pool costs between $30,000 and $200,000, depending on size and other factors. On the other hand, a fiberglass pool will set you back about $33,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worthwhile to invest in a fiberglass pool?

A fiberglass pool is one of the best alternatives to an above-ground or inground pool. Are they more costly? Yes, but what you pay for is what you get. Fiberglass pools need a little more effort to install, but they need less maintenance in the long run and last for years.

How long can you expect a fiberglass pool to last?

Pools from reputable manufacturers can last more than four decades. Of course, the lifespan depends on the product’s quality and how well the pool owner maintains it. However, I would estimate that they last between 20 and 40 years on average.