Fiberglass Pool Installations Done Right: Timing Is Everything

What may have begun as a simple curiosity and an online search of “fiberglass pools for sale,” “fiberglass pool cost,” or even “fiberglass pools near me” has now come down to how long it will take to install your  fiberglass pool. Good news! A fiberglass pool installation can be quick and painless when it’s done right. Becoming familiar with the fiberglass pool installation process can help ease your mind and manage timeline expectations as you go through this all-new inground pool journey.

LET’S TALK FIBERGLASS POOL INSTALLATION TIMELINE

Waiting is the most challenging part of getting a new quality fiberglass inground pool! However, fiberglass installation is faster than other pool types.

How fast can an inground pool be installed? An experienced and efficient pool professional can install a new fiberglass pool and have it swim-ready in as little as three weeks! By comparison, vinyl liner pools can take up to eight weeks, and concrete (gunite) pools can take up to six months.

But remember, every project is different, and actual timings can vary. Project timelines may increase during busy install seasons or due to unforeseen supply chain issues. Effective communication with the local pool professional will give you the most accurate timeline projection and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Let’s explore the installation process for fiberglass pools, along with some guidelines for approximately how long each phase might take. We’ll also take a quick look at some of the other variables, such as the accessibility of your site, your soil conditions, the weather, and local code requirements or inspections that could impact the process and your timeline.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO INSTALL A FIBERGLASS POOL FROM START TO FINISH? LET’S BREAK IT DOWN!

When we cite timelines for a fiberglass pool installation, we are speaking based on experience and data from independent dealers within our dealer network. Timeline estimates are not for a do-it-yourself fiberglass pool install or a fiberglass pool kit—they’re for fiberglass pool shells crafted by manufacturers with high quality-control standards working with an established network of dealers and fiberglass pool installers. 

Pre-Installation: Permit Application and Approval

Permit application and approval can take as little as a few weeks or as long as several months, depending on where you live. Since this part happens before excavation, we don’t typically count it as part of how long it takes to install the pool. However, it’s important to allot time in your schedule for this process. It’s not something that should wait until the last minute. The pool builder will likely be handling the acquisition of the permits for you as part of the installation process, but they’ll need some documentation from you to get started.

Almost all the following phases are weather-dependent, so you and the pool dealer must watch your local forecast! Account for your local weather patterns as part of your installation timeline. Some dealers may shift and shuffle parts of certain phases based on their construction approach and not all builders will adhere to the following timeline verbatim. 

 

Phase One (2-3 days): Site Excavation and Setting the Pool 

The pool builder will outline the dimensions for excavation using “dig specs” for your pool design provided by the fiberglass pool shell manufacturer.

The excavated area will be approximately four inches deeper and about a foot larger than the pool’s diameter to add backfill material under and around the shell.

The pool builder will add the base material your fiberglass pool shell will rest on and carefully level it.

Generally, pool installers will complete all pre-plumbing tasks at this installation stage.

The builder will use an excavator or crane to set your fiberglass pool shell in the hole.

 

Phase Two (2-3 days): Installing Remaining Plumbing, Electrical and Filtration Systems 

The pool builder will install the pool pump and filtration system lines, valves, and any other wiring needed for lights or other water features.

 

Phase Three (2-3 days): Backfilling the Shell and Filling the Pool 

The pool installer will add backfill around the outside of the pool shell while adding water inside the pool. These processes must happen in tandem so that the pressure on the shell is equal on both sides.

If your fiberglass pool design features a built-in tanning ledge but not  Backfill Eliminator® technology, you’ll need to allow an extra day or so for the backfill process. Tanning ledges are more challenging to backfill than any other area of the pool shell.

Opting for waterline tile in your pool design may add a day or two to the project’s installation timeline.

 

Phase Four (Time Varies): Inspection 

The local building and construction inspections department in your area must now inspect your pool installation.

Timing for scheduling and completing an inspection can vary significantly based on your local government agency’s availability.

The pool installer should be familiar with local agencies and officials in your area and can be an invaluable resource in planning for and scheduling this all-important step.

 

Phase Five (3-5 days): Coping, Decking and Auto-Cover Installation 

The pool builders will now install the coping—the top of the pool wall—around the edge of the shell.

If your design incorporates an automatic pool cover, at this point, builders will complete the rest of the “pre-pour” portion and prep work for your pool cover installation.

The pool area is now ready for whatever type of decking and pool patio surroundings you’ve chosen for the outdoor living space.

While the concrete is curing, the pool builders can begin cleaning up the site. Once the concrete cures, builders will complete the post-pour installation of your pool’s automatic safety cover.

 

Phase Six (2-3 days): Clean Up, Water Balancing, and Other Add-Ons 

The pool installer will remove their equipment and clean their construction materials from your property.

Before swimming, you must ensure your pool water is safe, clean, and healthy for the pool shell and your family. If your local pool builder also offers pool maintenance service, you might ask them to help you balance your water for the first time. Otherwise, you may need to bring in a pool service pro to help. Online resources, such as the  Orenda Calculator™, can be an excellent tool for helping to balance your fiberglass pool’s water using the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI).

If your project requires  new landscaping, fencing, or other features to enhance your backyard swimming pool oasis, you’ll need to add the time those contractors quoted you into your timeline.

What Factors Can Impact My Pool Installation Timeline? 

When the stars align, everything falls right into place, and proceeds without significant surprises or scheduling delays, talented and experienced pool dealers can complete a fiberglass pool install in as little as three weeks. 

You’ll want to play it safe and build a little bit of a buffer and cushion into your personal project timeline, however. Mother Nature may have her say on your schedule, or excavation may turn up ground and soil conditions necessitating extra steps in the process. 

Rain or other adverse weather conditions can potentially delay a fiberglass pool installation by days or even weeks depending on the severity and duration. Rain can impact and delay nearly every phase of construction, from excavation and leveling to the installation of plumbing work, electrical systems, concrete decking, surrounding landscaping, and other finishing touches.

Soil types and local geographic conditions in your area can also significantly impact your timeline. Underground rock, clay- or sand-heavy soils, and excessive groundwater are among the potential conditions that an independent dealer near you will have a local familiarity with and know how to approach.

No homeowner should ever have to experience fiberglass pool purchase regrets. Understanding what a fiberglass pool installation done right looks like will prepare you for the changes to come to your backyard. Then, once the installation is complete and your new pool is open, you can start  enhancing your swimming pool area with outdoor living features. 

For design advice, a detailed estimate, or answers to your questions, book a consultation with an independent dealer near you.