Since the 1960s, fiberglass as a construction material for swimming pools has been gaining popularity. Concrete pools are still the most popular type, but concrete has limitations that fiberglass can remedy. Not only is fiberglass more economical, but it’s also easier to maintain, and it feels better to the touch.
The advantages of fiberglass are causing a meteoric rise. In 2015, the number of fiberglass pools had doubled from 2006, and the increase continues. For some companies, the demand for fiberglass was so high in 2020 that builders had to book years in advance to satisfy demand.
This raises questions such as, “Should I hire builders in such a demanding market for my fiberglass pool, or can I do it on my own?” and for some, “Can fiberglass pools even be built above-ground?” Hopefully, through the rest of this article, we can answer those questions.
Above-ground pools are usually easier and cheaper to install. Combine that with the economic aspect of fiberglass, and homeowners can save a pretty penny on installation. Not only will above-ground pools save money, but they are much quicker to install, and customers don’t have to uproot their entire yards to install one. Above-ground pools are also safer.
In-ground pools are usually perceived to be more attractive, so if someone wants to opt for above-ground, they probably want to use a material that looks better. Fiberglass pools can be quite beautiful. Also, above-ground pools are great “trial” pools that aren’t as costly to remove as in-ground pools.
There are clear advantages to above-ground pools and fiberglass pools, separately, so what’s stopping us from putting the two together?
Fiberglass is still relatively new to mainstream construction because it’s not a very durable material. Building something like a pool that can last fifty years requires high-quality construction materials. Up until recently, some builders refused to even touch the fiberglass pool industry. That hesitation on the part of builders comes from the limitation of the material.
The limitations that fiberglass has are:
Already, you may be noticing some of these limitations would make above-ground fiberglass pools difficult to implement. The main problem would be in maintaining the structural integrity of the pool, so it can stand on its own.
Despite these limitations, fiberglass pools are still viable options. What are some of the clear advantages of fiberglass over other materials?
We have already touched on some of the best parts of Fiberglass. But what is it about fiberglass that has made it so popular in recent years?
With all the wonderful things about above-ground pools and fiberglass pools, the hope is to make them work together, but there are a few building requirements to make it work.
The answer is yes, with some conditions. The easiest ways to make fiberglass pools above ground are to make them as structurally sound as they would be in the ground. Strong support is a must for the walls to hold the weight of the water. There are only two ways a fiberglass pool can be an above-ground pool.
While above-ground fiberglass pools must have some support, that doesn’t mean they have to sacrifice the visual appeal. Above-ground fiberglass pools look great when integrated into decks for a seamless infinity pool design or on a slope, so some of your pool is in-ground, and some of it is above. If fiberglass is your choice in material, there are ways to make it work with your installation experts.
That does beg the question, though: Is it possible to install an above-ground fiberglass pool yourself?
Yes, you can, though you should consider the level of experience you have and the workload you’re willing to undergo for the project. Here are some of the resources and skills you should have in place before you take on such a project:
As you can see, there are many things to consider when it comes to pools. Materials and above or in-ground are just two of the many considerations. The answer to whether it can be done is not a simple yes or no. If you have the materials, yes it can be done, but it must be done right.
Now, should it be done? If you want to do it, then absolutely. The only other things to worry about are the resources you’ll need to make it happen.