Why Fiberglass?
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Our Fiberglass Pool Guide
What is a Fiberglass Pool?
Why is a fiberglass pool right for you?
Fiberglass pools are handcrafted and arrive at your home ready to be installed in your yard. As an incredibly sturdy, versatile and durable material, it is ideal for an in-ground pool. Fiberglass is created when fibers of glass are spun so finely that they can be molded into all kinds of shapes. Millions of interwoven glass threads are covered with a polyester resin. Fiberglass is the material choice in the most demanding industries including airplanes, helicopters, yachts and boats, wind energy blades, automotive applications and more commonly bathtubs, hot tubs and sinks, each putting harsh demands upon the material.
Revolution and Advancements
Innovation in the pool industry in the early 2000s welcomed fiberglass with the introduction of deep-blue, coloured gel coats that looked great and had environmental and production savings benefits. We also invite you to choose from other vibrant colours such as white, grey and black. Fiberglass pools are manufactured in a controlled environment, and while they are not custom, after decades of research, there are dozens of beautiful design options to compliment almost every backyard residential customer. We offer durable pools to meet almost any need starting from 10 and spanning up to 40 feet long.
Fiberglass pool shell manufacturers have expanded design offerings to the point where a fiberglass pool can often truly feel custom. Through a variety of colours, shapes and sizes, there is a fiberglass pool for your lifestyle and interests. Enjoy sitting and lounging to avid water games, rest or play in your perfectly paired pool.
Durability and Potential Damage
As an extremely low maintenance inground pool choice option, proper care ensures a significant decrease in the chances of any damages. With proper upkeep, fiberglass pools have lasted 50 years. Typical repairs associated with inground pools include issues such as spider cracks and discolouration. Fiberglass pools do require proper care of balance in water chemistry to ensure discolouration of the gel coat does not occur. Spider cracks are generally the result of poor installation or manufacturing, when too much pressure on a spot in the pool or if the shell is too thin. Fiberglass pools also have been known to suffer from osmotic blistering. These are little bumps that form in the gel coat layer when water molecules are able to pass through. If you do start to notice any surface imperfections, our manufacturers do offer surface warranties if any blistering did occur.
Our pool manufacturers have been constructing fiberglass pools for over 30 years and we absolutely prioritize the highest quality and optimal installation. We want you to enjoy your pool as much as you do.
A Closer Look at Ownership Cost
How much does a fiberglass swimming pool cost?
The benefits of fiberglass pools results in a lower cost of ownership, especially over time. But, with so many options available, price ranges can vary drastically. We understand with this large investment, you are looking for quality, longevity, ease of use and comfort.
Brief overview of cost ownership
- The initial cost of a fiberglass pool (8'x20') installation is $50,000.
- The initial cost of a vinyl pool installation (similar size) is generally $45,000. Vinyl pools are less expensive initially yet the difference in cost is quickly recovered over a 5-10 year period due to the strength and durability of fiberglass and lower maintenance costs. Vinyl pool liners need replacement every 8-10 years depending on how the pool was maintained and the size of your pool, generally costing between $4,000 - $7,000. Consider the cost of the pool water as well, and salt if a salt-water pool.
- The initial cost of a concrete pool installation (similar size) is generally $60,000. Concrete is the most expensive pool to install and maintain and the price can increase significantly depending on size and design. Maintenance costs are also higher thana fiberglass or vinyl pool. Every 3-5 years concrete pools require acid washing to maintain their finish and limit staining.
- The price range estimate do not include any water features, hardscaping, spas or decking.
Building your dream backyard and poolscape is an exciting time for you and your loved ones. The price can vary based on certain criteria and options you wish to include in your ultimate oasis. We have included an average range in this guide to help explain the factors that can influence the costs involved. Once we discuss the options available with you, we will begin to plan the building of your dream pool!
Are there hidden costs outside of installation and regular maintenance?
There are some costs that may factor above a standard pool installation quote that must be included in your project due to geography, local regulations or other reasons. Some of the most common hidden costs include: site preparation and access, permits, fencing, restoration, dirt hauling and electrical wiring.
Some considerations when budgeting for a fiberglass pool include
- Site preparation and restoration (influenced by things like geographic location and layout of your property)
- Backyard requirements (landscaping work to prepare and finish your backyard)
- Features (shape and size of the pool, accessories and add-ons, for example, coping, retaining walls and water features)
- Safety
- Electrical
Site Preparation and Restoration
Depending on the landscape of your yard, pool installation is often simple, but can become quite involved depending on the landscape. Cost can be impacted if the ground is hard or if there is a considerable volume of earth to remove before installation and if access is difficult, we may need to temporarily take down existing infrastructure. Restoration of your backyard can be a simple clean up and sod replacement, to as involved as a full-scale landscape renovation. In large, complicated projects, the equipment required has a significant impact on the appearance of your property.
Backyard Requirements
When you are planning to buy a pool, the composition and layout of your backyard are important to understand. Is your space "swimming pool ready" or will any modifications need to be made? Is there is a slope in the geography or is your backyard mostly flat? If your property is on a hill, we may need to reshape the area or build a retaining wall to create a level area around the pool. Are there any unforeseen circumstances in fiberglass pool installation? While digging for the pool, unknown underground issues may occur, such as if we hit a rock which might increase costs or in some extreme cases, may require a relocation of the pool.
Accessories and Features
Custom fiberglass pool water features: Beyond the basics like steps and tanning ledges, are you interested in adding water features like a fountain? You may need to run an additional water line in your backyard.
LED Lighting: You may be interested in including some pool LED lights which may need an additional power source
Custom coping and decking: The standard option of 1 foot round edge coping is included in your installation cost, but there are some other options you may also be interested in. We want to make sure your pool and deck design flows with the aesthetic in your backyard and have a variety of options we would love to discuss with you. These types of upgrades influence the initial cost of the pool installation.
Safety Requirements
Consider that permitting for residential pools varies across Ontario. Permits might include feeds to be paid to the municipality and may also require the purchase and installation of safety fencing. Is there enough space between your pool and your property? Most municipalities require pool owners to follow regulations regarding permits and land conservation guidelines. They also may require additional safety features, such as fences and alarm systems. To review the specifics of fence height, types of material permitted in any coping, railing or decking and other safety features, we work with your conservation authority before we start the pool planning process. We take extreme care to meet these requirements as we are planning your pool. We assess the area and address all safety concerns specific to your space.
Electrical Needs
Pools require electricity for the following functions:
- A pool pump and filter
- Pool heater (if you want to heat your pool without solar panels)
- Hot tub or spillover spa
- Salt water chlorinator
- Automatic safety cover
We plan your pool with our licensed electricians, or you are welcome to use your own, to help determine if your current electrical service is adequate for your new pool's systems. The location of your electrical panel may also be considered, would you prefer it to be closer to the pool for easier access? You may need to have a subpanel installed. The safest, most cost-effective solution to power your pool and it's systems will be determined by a certified electrician.
Electrical can be as simple as making a connection to a box on the rear of the house, but there is usually more to it. An upgraded or separate electrical box is usually a necessary accommodation for a backyard pool that has a filtering system, lighting and jets. You’ll want a pool cover. Many pool owners opt for an automatic cover. Pool covers are about much more than just keeping out a few leaves. In addition to keeping airborne debris off the water’s surface, pool covers help lower water loss and chemical use while your pool is unused. In addition, automatic pool covers can provide an extra level of safety above and beyond the security fence or other precautions you may have in place.
Shapes & Sizes
Which fiberglass pool design is right for you?
The innovations and options in fiberglass pools available will surprise you! Everyone is familiar with the crowd-pleasing shapes such as rectangles and "kidney beans," but let us delight you with special little design perks on a traditional shell. Choose from a variety of hues in our gel coat finish.
Fiberglass offers homeowners a wide variety of pre-engineered options that are perfect for any backyard need or aesthetic, including:
- Sizes
- Small pools starting at: 8 x 10 feet
- Medium pools starting at: 13 x 30 feet
- Large pools starting at: 16 x 40 feet
- Shapes
- Rectangular
- Kidney-shaped
- Free form
The variety of design solutions for every personality and preference is one of the most favourable features of fiberglass pools. Let us know exactly what you are looking for and we can match your needs perfectly. In our portfolios we offer more than 25 options for small pools, more than 15 styles in the mid-size category and over 20 large pools. Each category offers classic rectangular shapes or the choice for a creative, freeform design. Our selection also includes options for in-pool spas.
What is the easiest way to pick a pool size and design?
Start a list of all the features you'd like and we can use your wish list to narrow down a shape and design. On top of that, we can start with what your backyard looks like - is there a lot of unused space or is it a multi-function area? We can thoughtfully select options to fit a pool right into place. If your space also includes gardens, dog-runs and play areas for example, a smaller pool may be a perfect fit. Not to forget, a comfortable deck and patio area for lounge chairs and accessories to compliment your pool lifestyle. If you do have ample room to spread out, a larger pool may be an option with a variety of entertaining options. With the perfect design, your backyard transforms into a comfortable and cozy extension of your home.
Would you prefer a curvy or rectangular design?
Each offers a unique look and feel - perhaps the organic feel of each little nook in a curvy design delight you. Or maybe the clean, classic rectangular design elevates your space with a modern touch. We also offer the best of both worlds, a rectangular shape with rounded curves and flowing built-in features such as tanning ledges. This is just the beginning of fiberglass pool design options, with your input, we would love to recommend perfect options for you!
Additional considerations
As mentioned in the Safety Requirements in the Ownership Cost section of our guide, there are also other considerations beyond personal taste that must be incorporated into your decision making process. These include local zoning restrictions, municipality regulations with property line setbacks, underground utilities, easements adjoining your property, neighbouring underground utilities, existing obstructions and overhead access to the backyard space.
Invite us to check out your site and we will discuss local regulations, fencing requirements and any other installation costs. Next we determine your design build-out including patios, utilities and any fixtures, lighting, furniture, filters and pool covers and more.
Accessories
What fiberglass pool accessories are available?
Updates pending
Installation & Maintenance
An overview of the installation process and maintenance
Fiberglass Pool Installation Process
Wondering about what’s involved in a fiberglass pool installation? The entire project can seem complex, it's important to be informed on what exactly is involved. In short, a pre-engineered fiberglass structure is transported from our manufacturer’s facility to your backyard. It is placed into an excavated hole, it’s permanent home, filled with water and connected into a filtration system to keep it free from algae and other contaminants. Having an excavator in your backyard can be a bit daunting but we are just as excited as you are to create your dream backyard oasis. We take you step by step, obtain the necessary permits and let you know what will be happening next and when. Let’s take a closer look at the process we use when installing a fiberglass pool at your home. We are confident and capable in working with the unique features of every space to create a safe and functioning poolscape for you to enjoy for years to come. We look forward to upgrading your backyard to a new level! Read through for a good idea of what to expect at a minimum.
General overview of the installation process of a fiberglass pool
- Design
- Soil excavation
- Delivery and placement
- Pool levelling
- Plumbing and filter installation
- Backfilling and adding water
- Patio and coping installation
- Pool fence installation
First we discuss design. We get to know your preferences and the type of ambiance you’d like to create and recommend suggestions based on the styles you've shared. We can help narrow down the shape and size of the pool to best fit your space and help make your final decision easier.
Once you’ve selected the fibreglass pool shell of your dreams we analyze the dig specifications for the layout of your design. We take every precaution to make sure your pool will be placed in the exact area required. You will then approve the plan for landscaping and any amenities we have decided upon.
Once the placement of the pool and any landscaping needs are confirmed, excavation can begin quickly. We work with measurements accurate to less than an inch to ensure the hole for the pool will be a perfect fit. Our dig sheets are meticulous and so are we. We then mark the yard for the placement of the pool.
Now, the excavation begins, we get to work using excavators and skid steers to clear the area in your yard according to our detailed dig specifications. The dig specs include information like how much overdig to include for plumbing and accessories. Every dimension is included and ensures your fibreglass pool shell is installed properly. We set the base for the pool using 3/8” clear limestone to ensure a solid foundation for the placement of the pool. Screed bars are set up as guides for the slope to make the screeding process simple. The limestone is then compacted to ensure that the floor is stable.
The delivery and placement of your pool is a sight to be seen! It arrives on a low trailer specifically designed to transport swimming pool shells and your filtration equipment also arrives at this time. Your pool will most likely be lifted via a crane over your house and gently placed into the hole. Next, all levels are checked to make sure that it is perfectly in place and ready to be plumbed and backfilled.
After the pool is safely set, backfill is used to ensure firm support and tighten up areas such as tanning ledges. No pool is complete with out water of course, at this stage water is added gradually along the way to ensure equal pressure and stability on both sides of the fiberglass walls. The basics of plumbing the pool include fitting a skimmer box and return fittings. PVC pipe is installed from these items to the pump and filter. You may also wish to install a salt water system for your pool and if you’re interested in more information on salt water systems, visit our blog article, “What is the difference between a salt water and a chlorinated pool?” For insurance purposes, you must install a groundwater access pipe/hydrostatic pressure release. Once the pool is backfilled, the concrete collar is poured and mechanically fastened to the pool using re-enforcement steel for a lifelong perimeter bond along the pool’s structure. Concrete is poured approximately 6-12” thick around the perimeter, creating a mechanical lock and giving stability to the coping finish in the final step.
The location of electrical equipment which run the pool’s pump, heater, filter and any water features is a key conversation. Considering safety, function and design of all electrical equipment is paramount. It should be strategically placed for accessibility and generally is pretty easy to hide behind any foliage if you’d desire.
The final step includes pouring the concrete collar, coping, stone work and landscaping. We restore your site and complete all of the detailed finish work, including paver coping, decking and any landscaping and fencing to make your space sparkle.
This is a high-level overview of the installation process of a fiberglass pool. Specific details will vary by site. Once your pool is installed and ready to go, we will provide a run down of maintenance techniques to ensure your pool starts and stays in top shape. The fiberglass pool installation is fairly quick and simple, especially when compared to months of preparation involved with vinyl and concrete pools.
Maintenance
Updates pending
Side by Side Comparison
Fiberglass Vs. Vinyl Vs. Concrete Comparison Summary
Updates pending