Can you DIY a fiberglass pool
Emily Carr
Updated on May 09, 2026
If you’re just starting your research, you’re probably thinking: “Fiberglass pools are conceptually easy to install. … However, fiberglass pools are a perfect Do-It-Yourself project for anyone with basic excavation and plumbing experience—and, of course, time.
Can you install a fiberglass pool yourself?
If you’re just starting your research, you’re probably thinking: “Fiberglass pools are conceptually easy to install. … However, fiberglass pools are a perfect Do-It-Yourself project for anyone with basic excavation and plumbing experience—and, of course, time.
Can you build a pool yourself?
Just because installing your own pool may not be a good idea, it doesn’t mean that you can’t make savings with a bit of DIY in other areas. There are plenty of elements of the project that you can still safely do yourself including fencing, landscaping, decking and paving to name a few.
How much is a fiberglass pool DIY?
PackageAverage CostDIY or Self-Install$12,000 to $30,000Assisted Pool Installation (Dig, Set, Fill)$20,000 to $45,000Standard Pool Installation$30,000 to $65,000Turn-Key Pool Installation$45,000 to $85,000How much does a fiberglass pool shell cost?
Fiberglass Pool Shell Prices The average cost of a fiberglass pool shell ranges from $4,450 to $30,000 or more, with an average price of about $8,750. Factors that affect the price include its shape, size and depth. Custom options with additions like spas or tanning shelves are the most expensive.
How long does fiberglass pool last?
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.
Are fiberglass pools cheaper?
Yes. Fiberglass pools are 10 to 20 percent cheaper to install than a concrete pool. Fiberglass pools are also cheaper to maintain in the long run. Over a ten year period, maintenance costs associated with fiberglass pools are 75 percent less than those of concrete pools.
Why fiberglass pools are bad?
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.Can a fiberglass pool be semi inground?
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.
What is the downside of fiberglass pools?The cons associated with fiberglass pools are primarily related to cost and installation issues. Contrary to popular belief, fiberglass pools aren’t cheaper than traditional options like concrete (we’ll provide more details in the “Costs” section later on).
Article first time published onWhat is better concrete or fiberglass pools?
Affordable: Fibreglass pools cost around 20% less to install than a concrete pool. … Strong: It’s hard to believe anything is stronger than concrete, but fibreglass is very durable and can withstand movements in the earth better than concrete.
Is it cheaper to dig your own pool?
After some discussion on pool size and shape, I can always say that, as a rule of thumb you will typically save half of what it would cost to have the pool installed by a local pool contractor.
What is the cheapest way to build a pool?
Overall, vinyl liner pools are the cheapest inground swimming pools that money can buy. It’s rare to find a pool builder who can build a concrete or fiberglass pool at a vinyl liner pool price. This does not mean that vinyl liner pools are never expensive.
What is an owner build pool?
An owner builder pool requires you to be the head contractor of your build. You get complete control of the plans, the subcontractors you work with, the equipment you install, and the timing. The main advantage to contracting your own pool is the cost savings.
Can I design and build my own pool?
Yes. But just like the Visa commercials, having a pool our family can enjoy for many years to come: Priceless. While it is a lot of work, I would definitely explore the option of building your own pool. Not only are you able to have a hand in the entire process, but you also stand to save thousands of dollars.
What kind of pool can I get for $20000?
A fiberglass pool costs $20,000 to $36,500. This includes delivery, installation and a basic deck or coping. Maintenance runs an average of $5,000 to $15,000 over a 10-year period.
How much does a 12x24 inground pool cost?
Pool Size (feet)Price10x20$18,000 – $26,00012×24$14,400 – $37,44014×28$19,600 – $48,75016×32$25,600 – $66,560
Can a fiberglass pool be salt water?
Fiberglass swimming pools are very compatible with salt water systems. … Salt water is abrasive on the interior surfaces of concrete/ gunite pools, especially those that have plaster within them. Many families report that they enjoy swimming within a pool that has a salt water system.
What is the cheapest inground pool shape?
For either a custom-built pool or a prebuilt liner shape, the most affordable inground pools are those with the least-interesting shape—those with a rectangle or an oval shape will generally be the most inexpensive.
Is a pool a bad investment?
Resale Value A pool can increase not only your social worth but also the value of your home. However, the increase is probably not as much as you think. According to HouseLogic, there’s no real guarantee that you’ll make your money back. In fact, adding a swimming pool may only increase your home’s value by 7%.
Are Fiberglass pools worth it?
Fiberglass pools are extremely easy to maintain, can be installed quickly, are very durable, and can be beautifully designed. However, their initial cost can be higher than vinyl liner pools, and the shapes and sizes are not as customizable.
Can you leave a fiberglass pool empty?
Avoid draining your fiberglass pool if at all possible. You do not need to drain your fiberglass pool for dirty water, a new home, or a foreclosed or abandoned home. If you do need to drain it, hire a professional. Make sure to check the groundwater, brace the pool, and have a sump pipe and gravel backfill.
Can you tile a fiberglass pool?
You can tile a fiberglass pool in order to add some elements of beauty, style, and durability to the entire structure that will definitely capture people’s attention. While it might sound a little complicated on the basis of the materials used, installing tiles on the fiberglass pool isn’t rocket science.
Can I put a Fibreglass pool above ground?
High quality fibreglass pools can be installed either inground, partially inground or above ground. Having a fibreglass pool installed above ground doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the overall aesthetics of your pool, there are many ways you can customise your pool to suit your design ideas and your backyard.
Can you leave a fiberglass pool above ground?
So the question was, can a fiberglass swimming pool be installed above ground? The answer is YES!
How much does it cost to put in a fiberglass pool?
On average, a fiberglass pool costs around $45,000. That includes about $15,000 in labor and $30,000 in materials. Most homeowners report spending an average between $20,451 and $38,196 but costs can get as high as $75,000 depending on size, shape and house location.
Is Gunite better than fiberglass?
Fiberglass is a smooth, nonporous surface so algae won’t stick to the walls. Gunite walls, typically made of porous materials, can be a breeding ground for algae. … This means, you don’t have to scrub the walls as you would with a gunite pool, making it easier to maintain.
Do fiberglass pools blister?
Common Problems in Fiberglass Pools The water molecules are so tiny that they actually pass through the gel coat surface of the pool. When they are allowed to come in contact with cheaper polyester resins they create blisters and expand with heat or direct sunlight.
How long does it take to install a Fibreglass pool?
Fibreglass pools can be installed much more quickly than concrete pools, however, they first need to go through the building approval process. After you’ve received approval, the installation process can be relatively speedy. It generally takes between a week and 10 days to build an in-ground fibreglass swimming pool.
Why do fiberglass pools crack?
Fiberglass pools can craze or check crack from imprecise manufacturing or when the surface is not fully supported, like under the steps or areas where the backfill is eroded. Gelcoat can also crack during transport and installation if it gets bumped around too much.
Can you convert a fiberglass pool to Gunite?
If you already own a fiberglass pool and it’s having issues or aging, you may need to replace fiberglass pool with gunite. … These inground pools are constructed with cement and sand mixture. They’re easy to customize which makes them great for any landscape.