How To Close An Inground Pool

Posted on September 23, 2021June 22, 2026 by krista

For some, it’s a season of denial, but when that first multi-hued leaf hits the water, it’s hard to ignore the reality that it’s fast becoming time to close the pool. If you’re in a temperate climate, you’ll want to winterize your pool to set yourself up for continued enjoyment when the weather is warmer. Whether closing an above-ground pool or an inground pool, many of the same principles apply. However, your regimen and costs may vary if you are closing a vinyl or gunite inground pool. For a more in-depth comparison of fiberglass vs vinyl vs gunite, download our free eBook. In this post, we will cover how to close an inground pool that is fiberglass.

STEPS TO AN INGROUND FIBERGLASS POOL CLOSING

1. Set a date. Get it on your calendar, and if you need to get on the schedule for pool service, it’s wise to make an appointment as early as possible before the time slots fill up.
2. Balance your water chemistry. Even if you’ve hired a pool service company, there are likely tasks you should perform in advance. One is making sure you’ve established proper water chemistry. That includes checking and balancing for alkalinity, pH, free chlorine, calcium hardness, salt, stabilizer, metals, and dissolved solids. Note: the “eyeball test” will not cut it. Water that is pristine in appearance can still be harmful or out of balance. That’s why we test. Keep in mind that balance also refers to the neutrality of the water, meaning you don’t want water that is too acidic (can cause corrosion) or too basic (can cause scaling/deposit buildup). Your Thursday Pools Owner’s Manual is a great resource for recommended water chemistry levels.
  NOTE: do not treat your fiberglass pool with calcium hypochlorite because the percent of free chlorine is so high that it can damage the pool surface.
3. Wipe down the scum line. Otherwise known as the “water line” or “tile line,” the “scum line” is a result of body oils, lotions, and environmental contaminants that float on the surface of pools and leave a mark that is usually harmless but doesn’t look good. This blemish could become a bigger problem if left unattended. Note: Be gentle. Use a light touch with a wiping cloth or brush – don’t scrape – to preserve the gel coat of your pool.
4. Clean. Give your pool a final skim, vacuum, clean the filter baskets, and backwash the filter before the pool service company arrives. (The General gave us a good primer on backwashing and the ins and outs of a sand filter)
5. Add winterizing chemicals. Add the final chemicals in your winterizing process the day before your service company arrives, allowing time for the chemicals to take effect before their arrival. If your water is properly balanced, no additional chlorine is necessary. With no swimmer use and cooler water temperatures, chlorine demand over the winter months remains very low.
6. Tidy up. We’ve talked mostly about chemicals up to this point. Organize and store those chemicals tightly and securely in a well-ventilated space, with special care not to place caustic chemicals too close to each other. In addition, tidy up your pool accessories, toys, and furniture. This could include pulling out ladders, diving boards, and other fixtures and checking them for wear and tear. If you have a secured or immovable element, like a slide, it’s a good idea to give it a protective wax that will set it up for continued use in the spring.
7. Cover it. We recommend automatic pool covers for safety, security, and pool hygiene. If you get an automatic pool cover, you will be pleased with its contribution to a quality pool closing.

FAQ. A lot of new customers ask, “Should I drain my inground pool for the winter?” The answer is absolutely not. You risk structural damage if you drain your pool of water. Professional pool installers take great care to reduce the abundance of hydrostatic pressure from groundwater, but it is always there, and water in the pool counterbalances that external pressure. Recent technological innovations can lessen the impact of groundwater.

If you must remove some water from your pool or if water is captured on top of your pool cover, drain it away from the deck, and be careful to leave water in the pool above the skimmer level. If you absolutely must drain the water completely from your pool, please consult with a professional. That can protect you against voiding your warranty.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CLOSE A POOL?

The cost of closing a pool will vary based on your area, but a national average is around $250. For reference, here are monthly cost estimates of pool chemicals:

pH increaser/decreaser $10/mo
Calcium hardness increaser $20/mo
Stabilizer (cyanuric acid) $25/mo
Sanitizer (chlorine) $40/mo
Shock $38/mo
Algaecide $15/mo

As previously mentioned, the costs will vary based on your geography, your commitment to regular maintenance, your vigilant use of a pool cover, and other factors. If you’re still pondering questions like “how much shock will I need for my pool?”, we have a guide that provides some size/cost ratios on the most used chemicals.

BOTTOM LINE

Winterizing or closing your pool for the season is part of a disciplined approach to pool ownership. The season, and a period of disuse, can have negative consequences for your pool. By keeping a regular maintenance schedule all year long and giving special attention to a proper seasonal closing, you can keep your inground fiberglass pool in good shape for many years to come.

Do It Yourself Inground Pool

Posted on August 6, 2021June 24, 2026 by krista

Having a fiberglass swimming pool in your backyard is a dream for many, offering endless enjoyment and memories. However, fiberglass pool installation costs often tempt people to consider the DIY route. While it might seem like a cost-saving option, DIY pool installation comes with significant risks and potential hidden costs that can far outweigh the initial savings.

Is it possible to build an inground swimming pool yourself?

The short answer is yes, it is possible to build your own inground swimming pool. With the demand for inground pools surging, many people believe they will save money and get their fiberglass pool installed faster if they opt for a do-it-yourself inground pool installation. Still, the reality is that installing a DIY inground pool, whether you put it in by yourself or with the help of friends, can be dangerous, cause issues with your pool, and be more expensive when all is said and done.

Are DIY inground pool kits worth it?

The initial cost of inground pool kits may save you money over purchasing an installed pool. However, you might spend a lot more money and experience more delays or setbacks in the long run than if you left it up to an experienced professional. It’s important to mention that we are strictly a fiberglass pool manufacturer. Thursday Pools does not offer fiberglass inground pool kits. Our fiberglass pool shells are only available through independent dealers. Additionally, independent dealers install the pools in customers’ backyards.

What are some cons to installing a DIY inground pool?

The complexity of the installation process means that a DIY approach is rarely as simple or cost-effective as it might initially appear. Some known cons of installing a DIY inground pool include:

High installation equipment costs. Typically, homeowners will not have the equipment needed to install a pool, so you will have to purchase or rent the equipment yourself. This equipment can be expensive and not easy to find. Knowing which equipment to get and having the resources to obtain them is extremely important. Without the proper equipment, you cannot correctly install the fiberglass pool and risk expensive repair costs if something goes wrong.

Installation materials problems. When installing a pool, you will need access to the correct stone “backfill” material and know how much to use. If you use the wrong type of stone or not enough of it, your pool won’t be correctly backfilled, resulting in an unstable pool that moves, cracks, and leaks.

Expensive mistakes. We have seen YouTube videos and heard stories of pools being dropped or crashing into the homeowner’s house. The materials needed to install a pool can be heavy and hard to transport. Stone material and the fiberglass inground pool shell must arrive safely with the proper equipment to pick up and move the pool. If not, you may drop and crack your pool before it gets put in, and that’s on you!

Incorrect pool equipment. Selecting the right pool equipment can be overwhelming because there are many options. A professional pool installer will ensure you have the correct equipment for your pool’s size and type, including the pump, filter, water sanitation system, and heater. If this equipment is not compatible with your pool, leaks can happen, and pipes can crack. Additionally, many equipment manufacturers only provide a limited warranty when non-professionals purchase and install it. Dealers may offer extended warranty plans when the manufacturer or retailer installs this equipment. It is expensive to replace if it breaks and is not under warranty.

Incorrect component placement. Knowledge of where to place the skimmer, returns, and lights for maximum efficiency is essential. Installing your lights, skimmer, and returns at the wrong height or location can cause poor water circulation and unbalanced water chemistry, which ultimately causes poor water health and damage to the pool’s surface.

Excavation issues. When installing a fiberglass pool in your yard, there are things a typical homeowner wouldn’t consider, like drainage, easements, and access. The layout and hole need to be the proper slope and depth. An uneven excavation can cause the fiberglass pool to not be parallel to the house, out of level, and not adequately connected to the base material.

Electrical dangers. Obtaining the correct permits is critical for safety. The wrong permits can lead to improper electrical installations and inspections. A professional installer will ensure your fiberglass pool and equipment are bonded to prevent the transmission of any harmful electrical voltage to pool equipment, people, and pets.

Void warranty. Having a manufacturer’s warranty on your fiberglass pool is extremely important. The manufacturer’s warranty is automatically void with our pools if an independent dealer does not install your pool. While we can’t be 100% sure, we believe most, if not all, pool manufacturers do not honor a manufacturer’s warranty on a pool that a professional didn’t install. Check with your pool’s manufacturer’s warranty. If anything goes wrong with your pool, it may not be covered.

Concrete problems. Pouring concrete around a fiberglass pool is trickier than regular flatwork. Inexperienced concrete contractors can set the concrete too close to the pool wall with their equipment, causing the pool walls to move if not done correctly. Concrete can also get into the pool, which can be a nightmare to clean!

Longer than expected install time. Fiberglass pools are the quickest type to install when a professional installs the pool. If you install it yourself, you may run into delays and roadblocks along the way. Additionally, you should take into account that you will most likely be doing this as a side project on the weekends while still working your regular job throughout the week, making the project take longer.

The bottom line:

Use a professional pool installer that you’ve vetted. A professional dealer’s installation knowledge will help install the fiberglass pool correctly, ensuring your manufacturer’s warranty remains intact. Additionally, most pool builders provide a workmanship warranty over the entire project.

Dealers in our independent dealer network have formed relationships with professionals who can perform the specific tasks you need to install a pool so you can plan to relax in your pool stress-free in no time.

We may not be able to give you DIY inground pool cost figures, but we will recommend speaking with an installer. You can always let them know what budget you have in mind and see if these are parameters they can work in. If you’d like to spend more time planning your budget first, our inground fiberglass pool cost calculator tool can give you a ballpark estimate on your project based on your needs!

Pool Specifications

How Much Does an Inground Pool Cost?

Vinyl vs. Gunite vs. Fiberglass Pool

Vinyl Gunite Fiberglass Comparison ebook

Get the facts before you buy!

Investing in an inground swimming pool is a big decision. It’s important to understand which type of pool best meets your family’s unique needs. Check out our comprehensive pool comparison and arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make the best choice for you!

In this eBook, we compare all three pool types based on the following characteristics:

Speed of Installation
Surface Comfort
Surface Durability
Maintenance Time and Cost
Customizable
High-End Features
Upfront Cost
Competitive Warranty
Environmentally-Friendly
Overall Investment

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Should I Buy an Inground or an Above Ground Pool?

Posted on September 12, 2019August 27, 2026 by cargo

Getting a new swimming pool is a huge deal requiring careful planning and exploration. Given that you can roll years of vacation travel and expense into one backyard “stay-cation” that can pay dividends year in and year out, your decision to buy a pool is actually an investment decision. Like any investment, you should consider your options well. One of the first choices you’ll be faced with is between above ground pool vs inground pool. If you choose an above ground pool, you’ll be getting a vinyl liner pool, as that’s the only type of pool offered in above-ground styles. If you choose an inground pool, you’ll be choosing between three pool types. In addition to a vinyl liner pool, you’ll also have the options of gunite (concrete) or a fiberglass inground pool.

Let’s take a look at some of the factors to consider between above ground and inground pools, as well as the feature options and pricing to help you narrow the field.

Where you live. This should be your first consideration when you’re choosing what type of pool is right for you because the choice may not be yours. Some homeowners’ associations do not allow above ground pools and may even dictate what type of inground pool you can install in your backyard. So, check any local bylaws before you spend time doing any other research.
Pool Cost. If your budget is limited, and you’re really only interested in having a place to cool off every once in a while, you might prefer an above ground vinyl liner pool. Do-it-yourselfers can find above ground pool kits are the least expensive, starting at around $1,500. Inground vinyl pools (installed) can cost up to ten times more, with small fiberglass pools (installed) costing between $20,000 and $40,000. Gunite pools (installed) will run between $30,000 and $50,000.
Installation time. Above ground pool kits are designed to snap together, so you could be swimming in a day. By contrast, inground vinyl liner pools will take an average of 30 days to install while gunite pools can take as long as 90 days (in good weather). Because the fiberglass shells are manufactured and shipped in one piece, inground fiberglass pools can be installed in as little as two weeks.
Maintenance. While the low upfront cost of an above ground pool might be tempting, you should be prepared to spend more time and money on pool maintenance. Gunite pools will need to be resurfaced every 7-10 years, at an average cost of $15,000. However, fiberglass pools never need to be resurfaced and require the least amount of chemicals to maintain.
Resale value. In most areas, inground pools improve home value, whereas above ground pools will not. I
Aesthetics. In terms of overall beauty, above ground pools simply cannot compare to inground pools. The compromise you’ll make in terms of upfront cost and minimal installation time means that you’ll be looking out the window at a large object sitting in the middle of your yard, just as you would a jungle gym, swing set or trampoline. Also, if you decide to get rid of your above ground pool, you’ll need to reseed or re-sod your lawn.

Any type of inground pool offers you the ability to landscape around it, create specialty decking and add in ambiance-enhancing lighting. With gunite pools, you can choose any kind of custom shape you can imagine (but your cost will reflect that). With a quality fiberglass pool, you can choose from a huge assortment of shapes, sizes and colors, so you can get a custom look at no extra charge. You’re sure to find one that perfectly complements your backyard and your home’s overall look and feel.

In a nutshell, above ground pools are an option if:

Your homeowners’ association allows it.
You just want a quick and inexpensive way to cool off and pool cost is a big part of your decision.
The overall look of your backyard isn’t that big of a deal to you.
You might be moving soon and want to be able to take your pool with you.
You understand that you might be trading some of your upfront savings for additional repair and maintenance costs down the line.

Inground pools are great if:

Your homeowners’ association requires inground pool installation.
Your inground pool cost budget allows for the upfront investment, or you are able to finance your new pool purchase.
Your home’s resale value and the overall look of your backyard oasis are important to you.
You’re planning to stay in your home a while to make your upfront investment worthwhile.
You’re ready to create a place that will allow you to have quality family time together for many years to come.

Choosing an Inground Pool Shape for Your Family’s Stage in Life

Posted on February 27, 2019July 15, 2026 by krista

Selecting the right inground pool shape goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that fits your family’s lifestyle and stage in life. Whether you are a couple looking for a serene escape or grandparents seeking a safe and accessible pool design, your pool shape can impact its functionality and appeal. Explore inground pool shapes tailored to different family types, ensuring a cherished spot for relaxation, fun, and a lifetime of memories.

Families with Small Children

Families with small children need a pool that prioritizes safety, easy access, and designated shallow areas for play. A well-designed pool for young kids ensures peace of mind for parents and creates a fun and inviting space where children can safely enjoy the water as they grow and gain confidence in their swimming skills.

Key Considerations:

Safety First: Shallow zones, non-slip surfaces, and secure access points are crucial.
Visibility: The pool shape should allow clear sightlines for parents to keep an eye on the kids.
Multi-Level Play Areas: Zones with varying depths cater to toddlers, beginner swimmers, and older children alike.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

Beach Entry Pool: The gradual, sloping entry mimics the feel of a beach, providing an ideal play area for small children. It allows them to enter the water slowly and safely, perfect for toddlers and young kids just getting comfortable in the water. With a gentle slope into the pool, the beach entry is ideal for wading, splashing, and sunbathing.
Wading Pool: A wading pool features a shallow, uniform depth, making it an excellent space for young children to play and for adults to relax. It provides a perfect environment for toddlers and pets, offering peace of mind with its shallow water (typically around 18 inches deep). Look for a non-slip surface and built-in benches for easy supervision.
Plunge Pool: Plunge pools bring depth without taking up too much backyard play space. They’re great for young swimmers getting comfortable with water. They let your kids splash, stand, and play safely while you stay close.
Rectangular Pool: The simple rectangular-shaped pool allows for easy oversight, and a built-in tanning ledge is a perfect spot for small children to splash and play. A defined shallow area is great for play or for parents to relax close to the kids.

Families with Teenage Children

Families with teenagers need a pool that matches their active lifestyle and provides ample space for fun and socializing. From swimming laps to playing water games and lounging with friends, the right pool shape can turn your backyard into the ultimate hangout spot for teens and their friends while ensuring safety.

Key Considerations:

Active Lifestyle: Teenagers often enjoy active water activities like swimming, water games, or just lounging in the pool with friends.
Space for Socializing: The pool should comfortably accommodate groups of friends, with areas for swimming and hanging out.
Safety Considerations: Ensure the design includes proper depth transitions for safe enjoyment.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

Rectangular Pool: Rectangular pools offer plenty of space for swimming laps, water sports, and general relaxation. The shape is versatile for various activities and may include tanning ledges for lounging and socializing, as well as built-in steps and swim-outs for easy entry and exit.
Freeform Pool: Freeform pools are natural and playful, perfect for a fun and relaxed environment. The shape features curved edges that create nooks for relaxation while still offering ample swimming space. Tanning ledges, built-in steps, and wraparound benches enhance their aesthetic and functional value.
Spa: Adding a spa to a pool creates a perfect relaxation zone for teenagers and their parents. It’s an ideal space for resting after an active swim or quiet conversation.

Couples

For couples, a pool is often more than just a place to swim—it’s a retreat for peace, romance, and entertaining close friends. The ideal pool shape should prioritize aesthetics, tranquility, and a touch of luxury, creating a serene environment that enhances the atmosphere of your home while catering to intimate gatherings and quiet moments.

Key Considerations:

Relaxation: Couples often prioritize tranquility, aesthetics, and space for quiet, romantic moments.
Entertaining Small Groups: The pool should provide ample space for socializing.
Elegant Design: A focus on style and elegance with mood-enhancing features.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

Roman Pool: The classic Roman pool shape offers a touch of elegance with its symmetrical design and rounded ends. It provides ample swimming space with a refined, sophisticated look. Elevate the experience with a tanning ledge, wraparound benches, and built-in steps.
Freeform Pool: A freeform pool offers a more organic and flowing design, perfect for creating a tranquil and romantic environment. Its natural, curving shape blends seamlessly into the landscape, adding a sense of elegance and serenity. Tanning ledges, wraparound benches, and built-in steps are perfect for conversation and relaxation.
Rectangular Pool: The sleek and straightforward rectangular pool design makes it a versatile and sophisticated option for couples. This shape is perfect for swimming laps or simply enjoying a quiet, reflective swim. Clean lines create a modern aesthetic, and options for swim-outs, tanning ledges, and built-in steps add form and function.
Plunge Pool: Busy homeowners will love the low-maintenance luxury of a plunge pool. Sleep, minimalist designs save backyard real estate while delivering high-style living. And with fewer chemicals and less upkeep, you’ll spend more time lounging poolside and taking quick dips—and less time worrying about pool chores.
Spa: Spas provide an intimate space for relaxation and hydrotherapy, making them a great addition to any pool area. They offer a perfect spot for couples to unwind, soak in the warm water, and experience the therapeutic benefits of jets, enriching the overall ambiance of the backyard retreat.

Grandparents

Grandparents often seek a safe pool that is easy to access and designed for relaxation and family bonding. With a focus on gentle entry points and versatile spaces, the perfect pool shape allows grandparents to enjoy light exercise, cool off on warm days, and spend quality time with grandchildren in a safe and comfortable environment.

Key Considerations:

Ease of Access: Safety and ease of entry/exit are top priorities, with designs considering limited mobility.
Low Maintenance: Simple designs that are easy to maintain and clean.
Relaxation and Family Time: A focus on relaxation with areas for grandchildren to play safely.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

Freeform Pool: The freeform’s gentle curves are ideal for creating a relaxing environment with designated areas for both lounging and safe play. Beneficial features include non-skid surfaces, easy entry and exit with built-in steps, swim-outs, and enough space for gentle swimming.
Wading Pool: Shallow, versatile pools for relaxing, light exercise, or letting grandchildren splash safely. It’s perfect for older adults who want a low-impact space to enjoy the water. Features often include uniform shallow depth, non-skid surfaces, and benches.
Plunge Pool: Plunge pools bring the joy of safe, shallow water without requiring a sprawling backyard or creating excessive work and responsibilities. Their manageable size simplifies cleaning and maintenance, while built-in steps and comfortable depths make it easier to enjoy time with grandkids. It’s poolside relaxation without the strain—just pure connection and comfort.
Beach Entry Pool: The gradual, sloping entry makes it exceptionally easy to get in and out, catering to all mobility levels. It’s perfect for grandparents and young grandchildren alike, providing an accessible space. The gentle slope mimics the beach feeling and allows for sunbathing, wading, and safe play.
Spa: A spa’s hydrotherapy benefits often appeal to grandparents. The warm water and soothing jets help relieve joint pain and promote relaxation, making it an ideal spot for unwinding.

Get the Right Shape For Your Family: Consult a Pool Builder

Choosing a pool shape brings you one step to creating your dream pool and enjoying many memories with your loved ones. In no time, you’ll look out your window and won’t even be able to remember what your yard looked like before your fabulous new pool.

If you need help selecting a shape, contact a local pool builder. Their years of experience designing pool projects and insights from countless backyards can offer invaluable guidance. Get a design consultation today from an independent Thursday Pools dealer.

Landscaping Your Backyard Swimming Oasis eBook

Landscaping your Backyard Swimming Oasis for Beauty and Easy Pool Maintenance

Discover the perfect plants to surround your pool. (And also the ones to avoid!)

So many beautiful plants in the world… how do you choose the BEST ones to enhance your pool area? Download our ebook to learn how to choose the ideal trees, plants, and shrubs to create low-maintenance, year-round beauty!

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The Hidden Costs of Installing an Inground Pool

Posted on September 18, 2018July 16, 2026 by riley

Inground pool quotes are often not all-inclusive. The estimate a builder provides on day one typically covers the pool structure, the excavation, and the core installation, but may stop there. Permits, fencing, decking, landscaping, and more line items may appear later as hidden costs of installing an inground pool.

Why Inground Pool Quotes Can Look Lower Than the Final Total

Two buyers with identical pools can receive quotes that differ by $20,000 or more. The gap usually comes down to scope: one quote includes premium decking, fencing, and landscaping, while the other covers only the pool and core installation.

The only way to compare quotes accurately is to confirm what each one includes and excludes before you use it to make decisions. A low base quote isn’t a bargain if it leaves out $15,000 in fencing and electrical work you’ll have to pay for anyway.

For a full breakdown of inground pool cost by pool type, including fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete, see our complete Inground Pool Cost Guide.

What Does an Inground Pool Installation Quote Typically Include?

Most standard installation packages cover the pool structure (shell, steel framing, or concrete depending on pool type), excavation and backfill, delivery, a pump and filter system, basic electrical setup, rough plumbing, and often a handrail. Most basic quotes do not always include the costs of permits, full electrical work, safety fencing, water fill, dirt hauling, pool covers, decking beyond a basic perimeter, landscaping, and yard restoration.

What Are the Most Common Extra Costs During Inground Pool Installation?

Permits and Inspections

Most municipalities require a building permit before pool excavation can begin. Separate permits for electrical and plumbing work may also be required. Permit costs typically run between $100 and $1,000, according to Pool Research, though the range varies significantly by jurisdiction. Some dealers or contractors handle the application, but the cost is yours to cover.

Excavation and Site Preparation

Site-specific conditions change excavation costs more than most buyers expect. Rocky soil requires heavier equipment and takes longer to excavate, clay-heavy soil needs drainage solutions, and sandy soil may need additional stabilization around the pool shell. Sloped yards can require grading or retaining walls before installation can proceed.

According to a 2026 survey of independent pool builders in the Thursday Pools dealer network, navigating soil conditions, elevation changes, or limited access can cost between $1,500 to $4,500 or more.

Safety Fencing

Many states and municipalities require fencing around residential pools. Specific requirements, including barrier height, material, gate types, self-latching mechanisms, and other regulations, vary by location. Your contractor should know the local code, but the cost is not always included in the base quote.

According to a 2026 survey of Thursday Pools independent dealers, the average cost for a standard 300-linear-foot fence is just more than $8,000.

Electrical Work

Pool equipment, including pumps, filtration systems, heaters, lighting, and automation controls, all require electrical connections. The complexity of that work depends on your home’s panel capacity, the distance from the equipment pad to the main panel, and the scope of lighting or automation you want.

Your pool dealer may or may not offer full electrical wiring and installation as part of their pool installation package. Either way, we recommend budgeting at least $2,000 to $5,000 for pool electrical work, though more complex setups or homes that need a panel upgrade can cost up to $10,000 or more. Confirm with your contractor whether electrical work is included in the base installation package.

Water Fill

Filling an inground pool for the first time requires a significant volume of water. Depending on pool size and local water rates, the initial fill can cost up to $2,000, according to HomeGuide.

Decking, Landscaping, and Yard Restoration

Construction equipment will occupy your backyard for weeks and can leave the surrounding yard in rough shape. Post-installation restoration, including grading, sod, and landscaping, is typically not included in a base pool quote.

Decking adds significantly to the project total. A 1,200-square-foot poured concrete patio averages just over $12,500, according to 2026 data from Thursday Pools independent dealers. Paver patios of the same size run just over $13,000. Premium materials like stamped concrete or natural stone cost more.

Pool Covers

A pool cover is not optional if you live where winters freeze. The type you choose affects both upfront cost and long-term maintenance convenience.

Winter covers average $75-$250, according to HomeGuide.
Manual retractable safety covers average around $4,000, according to the 2026 Thursday Pools dealer survey.
The 2026 Thursday Pools dealer survey shows that automatic pool covers average $17,580 installed.

Automatic covers provide the most convenience and protection, but they require an electrical hookup and need to be factored into the electrical budget. In many cases, installing the auto cover and running the electrical simultaneously reduces total cost.

What Are the Ongoing Costs of Owning an Inground Pool?

Installation is a one-time expense. The following costs may seem hidden initially, but will recur for the life of the pool.

Regular Maintenance

Inground pool ownership requires staying on top of tasks like skimming the surface, vacuuming debris, and maintaining correct water chemistry levels for safe water and surface protection. In our experience, fiberglass pool owners typically spend $500 to $1,500 per year on DIY maintenance, while vinyl liner pool owners spend $1,000 to $2,000 per year. Gunite pool owners spend more, from $2,000 to $4,000 annually, because the porous concrete surface requires additional chemicals to control algae.

Equipment Maintenance and Repairs

Pumps, filters, heaters, and plumbing components require periodic maintenance and eventual replacement. Budget for routine upkeep and set aside a reserve for unexpected equipment failures.

Utility Costs

Running a pool pump, heater, and lighting adds to your electricity and water bill throughout the season. Energy-efficient variable-speed pumps and covers that reduce evaporation both help lower operating costs over time.

Winterization

In climates with a freeze-thaw cycle, closing the pool properly each fall protects the plumbing, equipment, and structure. Winterization typically involves blowing out plumbing lines, treating water chemistry, covering the pool, and storing or protecting equipment. Labor and materials add an annual cost.

Resurfacing or Liner Replacement

Concrete pools need resurfacing every 10-15 years, typically at $6,000 to $15,000 or more, according to HomeGuide. Vinyl liner pools need a new liner every 5-15 years, typically costing $3,000 to $7,500, per HomeGuide. Fiberglass pools do not require periodic resurfacing, and there is no liner to replace.

How Does an Inground Pool Affect Homeowners’ Insurance?

Pools are classified as an “attractive nuisance” under most homeowners’ insurance policies, which means they increase your liability exposure in the eyes of your insurer. Expect your annual premium to rise after installation. The specific increase varies by carrier, location, coverage level, and what safety features, such as fencing, alarms, or an automatic cover, you have in place.

Contact your homeowners’ insurance provider before installation to understand the impact on your policy. Adding required safety features upfront can reduce both liability risk and premium impact.

Questions to Ask Your Contractor Before You Sign

Before committing to any inground pool quote, get clear answers to the following questions:

Does this quote include permits, inspection fees, and permit applications?
Is all electrical work, not just the panel, included?
Does the quote include dirt hauling and excavated material removal?
What decking is included, and what does additional patio work cost?
Is fencing included, and does it meet local code requirements?
Is the initial water fill included?
Is any pool cover included, and what is the cost to upgrade to an automatic cover?
Is basic yard restoration or landscaping included?

Talk to a Local Thursday Pools Dealer Before You Budget

Installation costs vary by yard, location, soil type, access conditions, and what you want surrounding the pool. The most accurate budget comes from a dealer who has seen your specific site. An authorized Thursday Pools independent dealer will assess your yard and give you a project estimate that accounts for your site, project scope, and budget. You can also try our Pool Cost Calculator for a ballpark starting point before your first dealer conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Inground Pool Installation Costs

What costs are typically not included in an inground pool installation quote?

Base installation quotes most often exclude permits and inspection fees, safety fencing, the full scope of electrical work, water fill, dirt hauling, decking beyond a small perimeter, landscaping, yard restoration, pool covers, and pool heaters. Getting a fully itemized quote makes it possible to compare proposals accurately and avoid budget surprises.

How much does it cost to install an inground pool, including all expenses?

A fiberglass pool typically runs $45,000 to $100,000 or more for the base installation, according to a 2026 Thursday Pools independent dealer network survey. Adding fencing, full decking, electrical work, a heater, and an automatic cover can push the total significantly higher. For a full breakdown by pool type, see our Inground Pool Cost Guide.

Do I need a permit to install an inground pool?

Yes. In most jurisdictions, a building permit is required before excavation can begin. Separate permits for electrical and plumbing work may also apply. Permit costs typically run $100 to $1,000, though the amount varies by location. Your contractor should manage the application process, but the cost is typically not included in the base installation quote.

Does inground pool fencing have to meet local code?

Yes. Most municipalities and states have specific fencing requirements for residential pools, covering minimum height, gate specifications, and latching mechanisms. Requirements vary by location, and your builder should know the local codes. According to a 2026 survey of Thursday Pools independent dealers, the average cost for a standard 300-linear-foot fence is just more than $8,000.

How much does inground pool electrical work cost?

Pool electrical work typically runs $2,000 to $5,000 at minimum in our experience, and up to $10,000 or more for complex setups or homes that need a panel upgrade. This cost is frequently excluded from base installation quotes. Confirm what is included before signing, and get a separate electrical estimate if it is not covered.

Will installing an inground pool raise my homeowners’ insurance?

Yes. Pools are classified as attractive nuisances, and most homeowners’ insurance policies will increase annual premiums after installation. The impact depends on your carrier, coverage level, location, and what safety features you have installed. Contact your insurance provider before installation to understand the impact on your policy.

Which type of inground pool has the lowest lifetime cost?

Fiberglass pools typically carry the lowest lifetime maintenance cost because they do not require periodic resurfacing or liner replacement. Concrete pools need resurfacing every 10-15 years at $6,000 to $15,000 or more. Vinyl liner pools need a new liner every 5-15 years at $3,000 to $7,500 per replacement. Fiberglass pools require no resurfacing or liner replacements.

What questions should I ask before signing a pool installation contract?

Ask specifically whether the inground pool quote includes permits, dirt hauling, electrical work, safety fencing, water fill, decking, an initial pool cover, and yard restoration. Ask for an itemized breakdown so you can compare quotes from different contractors on equal terms.