However, fiberglass pools can’t be installed as a fully above-ground pool.
But they can be partially above-ground with up to 18 inches exposed.
With proper planning and consideration, fiberglass pools are a unique alternative to the standard metal above-ground pool.
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They offer more options for shape customization and have a distinctive smooth texture.
They also have a longer-lasting surface than their liner counterparts.
Here’s what you better know about installing an above-ground fiberglass pool.
What Is Fiberglass?
Fiberglass is exactly what it sounds likesmall fibers of glass.
The most common use of fiberglass is to add strength to an object.
Fiberglass also doesnt wear as easily as a standard pool coating.
Once fiberglass cracks, the strength is gone, and there is no patch for fiberglass.
There are patches to fix liners or other hard surface pool types.
Additionally, this added movement allows the fiberglass to separate from its backing.
Once this happens there is no proper repair.
To limit movement, a fiberglass pool must bereinforced with a backfillto limit flexing.
Fiberglass pools are more susceptible to irreparable damage due to the nature of fiberglass itself.
This box will stop the flexing of the fiberglass and add to the already strong profile of the pool.
As with any pool, the selected location should be acceptable for apool installation.
Do all groundwork to ensure the pool will stay level for its life expectancy.
It is important to limit flexing as much as possible with fiberglass.
Once the groundwork is completed and leveled, its time to drop the pool in.
Fiberglass pools are pre-formed in a factory and shipped in one solid piece.
They arrive onsite with a trailer and get lifted with a crane into place just like a modular house.
Other Types of Above-Ground Pools
Besides fiberglass, there are otherabove-ground pool options.
If you prefer the standard hard-sided above-ground pool option, newer models have better-designed corrosion-resistant plastic supports.
A bed of pea gravel is usually the material that is placed under a fiberglass pool.
Fiberglass pools are not immune to spider cracks, discoloration, blistering, and leaking.
The biggest disadvantage of prefabricated fiberglass pools is limited sizes, shapes, and custom options.
A fiberglass in-ground pool can last for several decades with good care.
Fiberglass pools are fairly crack-resistant, even in winter.
The material is flexible and strong.
However, it’s still important to winterize your pool before the season starts anduse a pool cover.
