You've narrowed your choices down to an inground fiberglass pool... or maybe you're still exploring all your options. Whichever stage you're at in your decision-making process, you've come to the right place.
At River Pools, we believe the best decisions start with the right information. This guide brings together our experience as fiberglass pool manufacturers and insights from independent installers across the country. Our goal is to help you decide what truly works for your backyard, budget, and lifestyle, even if fiberglass isn’t the right fit.
Let's explore all aspects of fiberglass pools together, so you can make a decision you'll be happy with for years to come.
What you'll find in this guide
- How are fiberglass pools built step-by-step?
- How are fiberglass pools installed?
- How much does a fiberglass pool cost?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of fiberglass pools?
- How do I choose a fiberglass pool manufacturer?
- How do I find a reputable fiberglass pool installer?
- FAQs
What is a fiberglass pool?
The main structure of a fiberglass pool is a single one-piece structure (the pool shell) made entirely of fiberglass material.
Other types of pools are built from multiple smaller components.
For comparison, a vinyl liner pool uses plastic or metal wall panels for side-wall support, a grout or vermiculite bottom for floor stability, and a vinyl liner is then laid over the walls and floors to create the finished look.
Concrete pools are typically formed from an outer cage of steel bars (rebar) on the walls and floor of the pool structure. This rebar is then encased in concrete, which will be covered in plaster or other finish material once the concrete dries.
We've put together a comprehensive pool type selector tool to help you decide whether a fiberglass, vinyl liner, or concrete pool is right for you and your backyard. Just click the banner below to take the quiz and get your results:
How are fiberglass pools built step-by-step?
The short answer should be: very carefully.
Fiberglass pool shells are "built" in factory conditions, so pool buyers generally don't get to see their pool come together before the shell arrives at their home for installation.
However, we've filmed a number of videos in our facility to give you a truly comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at the fiberglass pool shell manufacturing process. Much of it will be covered in the next sections of this article, but you can see a more detailed step-by-step breakdown at our dedicated manufacturing process page (click this link to see more).
At River Pools, our process creates pool shells that bind together several different materials in various combinations. We refer to the order of materials as the lamination schedule.
Our fiberglass pool shells are typically just three-eighths of an inch thick—but that thin profile is intentional, not a compromise. Compared to concrete pools, which are 5–6 inches thick (including rebar), or vinyl liner pools with 4-inch wall panels, fiberglass shells rely on carefully engineered layers of materials bonded together during the manufacturing process. The result is a thinner structure that still delivers exceptional durability and long-term performance.
The fiberglass pool shell mold
Fiberglass pools are built on pre‑engineered molds, which means you get a well‑designed, ready‑to‑go shape and size from the carefully curated models each manufacturer offers.
All River Pools molds are made from fiberglass reinforced with steel bars. Our molds are bright red-orange, so it's easier to assess the coverage of the critical first layer of material, the gelcoat.
Fun Fact: Fiberglass pools are manufactured from the inside out.
Check out this critical first step in our manufacturing process below:
The surface gelcoat
The inside finish of a pool shell is what you can see and touch once your pool is properly installed and ready for swimming. It's called gelcoat. Watch the quick video below for an overview of the gelcoat application process:
Our gelcoats are super smooth and durable, and all fiberglass pool gelcoats are made to be algae-resistant. This is a big reason why fiberglass pools tend to be lower maintenance compared to other pool types.
The resin
Resins impart adhesive properties to fiberglass, allowing it to bond to itself and to any connected layers in the pool shell during manufacturing. We use vinyl ester resin first because it’s waterproof.
This layer of vinyl ester resin keeps pool water away from the polyester resin layers. If we didn't build our pool shells this way, interior layers of fiberglass might absorb water and produce visible bubbles in the gelcoat, called osmotic blisters. Vinyl ester resin won't break down when exposed to pool water... but polyester resin can.
Using vinyl ester resin as a protective layer helps keep your pool looking pristine, like the image on the right. If we didn't use vinyl ester, you might wind up with a pool shell that looks more like the close-up image on the left:
Fiberglass pool gelcoat with and without osmotic blistering
By using vinyl ester resin in the first layer behind the gelcoat, we effectively add a waterproof layer to protect your gelcoat from blisters ever occurring.
Check out the third video in our series, which covers our use of resin and osmotic blister protection in more detail:
Still trying to picture how fiberglass pools are made on a mold? Here's a comparison you might be familiar with: papier-mâché.Here's an easy way to compare: papier-mâché.
Most of us have probably tried to make papier-mâché shapes by using strips of newspaper mixed with glue. My family often uses balloons as the "mold" for our papier-mâché creations.
If we painted the balloon with just a thin layer of glue, it wouldn't be papier-mâché, and the glue wouldn’t retain the balloon's shape after the balloon pops -- glue doesn't have a lot of inherent structural support. On the other hand, dry strips of newspaper won't even stay on the balloon, because they have no adhesive properties.
But if you mix newspaper with glue, then you've got structure and adhesion. It's pretty much the same as our mixture of fiberglass and resin. Fiberglass provides structure, while resin helps the structure stick together. In this example, resin is the glue to the 'fiberglass’ paper. When mixed and applied together, they keep the correct shape with proper support.
This video goes into more detail on our use of chopped fiberglass and resin:
Think a fiberglass pool is a good fit for your project? Click the button below to get connected with an independent installer in your area. They'll talk you through your options, timelines, price ranges, and any other important elements of your prospective pool project.
The quality check
Once we've applied all the necessary layers to create a durable fiberglass pool shell, we pop it off the mold and look over every square inch of the shell for any gelcoat cracks or inconsistencies in the fiberglass structure.
Manufacturers may use different processes and materials, but every reputable manufacturer should conduct a thorough quality check on every pool shell
Want to see a live walkthrough of our quality inspection process? Check out this video:
Now let's take a look at what happens after your builders show up with your pool shell.
How are fiberglass pools installed?
Most fiberglass pool manufacturers don't employ the people who install their pools. In fact, River Pools fiberglass pools are available only for purchase and installation through an independent installation company you hire.
Because of this, interviewing prospective installers is an essential part of your fiberglass pool buying process. This can help you verify their experience and procedures, and it gives you the chance to check your installer's customer references.
Below is the process for your fiberglass pool installation (click this link for more detail):
- Determine the pool's location.
- Excavate the soil.
- Install a crushed stone base.
- Set and level the pool.
- Install the pool’s plumbing and filter systems.
- Backfill the pool shell while filling the pool with water.
- Install the coping and patio.
- Install the pool fence and other optional décor.
The fiberglass pool installation process typically takes just a few weeks, which means you should be able to enjoy your pool all summer long instead of having a torn-up eyesore of a backyard for months and months.
At River Pools, we manufacture world-class fiberglass swimming pools for installation across North America and have a wide variety of models to choose from. Click the button below to build your dream pool and get a rough estimate of what you will pay.
How much does a fiberglass pool cost?
On average, most fiberglass pool projects fall around $85,000 and $200,000, with many turnkey packages landing in the $65,000-$100,000 range. Extra features and upgrades, such as pool waterfalls, pool lighting, and/or fencing, can push your price range higher.
After installation, you'll typically spend about $600-$1,500 a year on maintenance and upkeep over the life of your fiberglass pool. This is significantly less than you'll pay to maintain other types of inground pools.
Swimming pool maintenance is very DIY friendly, but many choose to hire a service company. Over a 10-year period, you might expect to spend around $15,000 to maintain a fiberglass pool. If you owned a vinyl liner pool, you'd need to spend nearly $22,000 for 10 years of maintenance. A concrete pool often costs over $25,000 to maintain over 10 years!
Here's a more detailed breakdown of each component of those costs:
Want a customized price estimate for your pool project? Click the button below:
What are the advantages and disadvantages of fiberglass pools?
If you’ve made it this far, you’ve already seen many of the standout features of fiberglass pools—along with a few limitations. To make things easier, here’s a quick recap of the main pros and cons we’ve covered throughout the guide.
We specialize in and advocate for fiberglass pools because we truly believe they’re the best long-term fit for most pool buyers… but like any pool type, they’re not perfect for everyone.
Advantages (pros)
- Faster installation
- Durable
- Easier maintenance
- Lower lifetime costs
- Attractive style options
- Compatible with a variety of sanitation systems
Faster installation
Installation for most fiberglass pool projects usually takes between three and six weeks, from the first day your builders show up to the first day you can take a dip in your new pool. The timeline for your project depends on the complexity of the overall backyard design.
By comparison, many concrete pool installations can take between three and six months to complete.
Durable
Fiberglass is strong. You won’t have to worry about puncturing the gelcoat or cracking the structure while playing in your pool every day. Your dogs (or any other water-loving pets) can play in the pool without damaging the surface with their claws.
The gelcoat of a high-quality fiberglass pool shell should never need to be refinished, as long as it's been made, installed, and maintained properly.
Easier maintenance
A fiberglass pool's gelcoat is smooth and algae-resistant. This generally means homeowners will find it easier to maintain. Fiberglass pools do require some maintenance and require chemistry guidelines that differ from other pool types.
Lower lifetime costs
Fiberglass pools require less electricity and fewer chemicals for maintenance. This not only saves you time and effort but also reduces your costs. As we've mentioned before, if maintained properly, you can expect a fiberglass pool to last for decades. In fact, River Pools provides a lifetime structural warranty for all the fiberglass pools we manufacture.
Attractive style options
At River Pools, we make fiberglass pools in quite a few different shapes and sizes, and many designs include popular features like built-in tanning ledges, benches, seats, and even integrated spas.
Nowadays, you can customize your fiberglass pool to fit any aesthetic, with colored finishes, add-on spas or tanning ledges, waterline tile, water features, LED lights, and many other options.
And when it comes to finishing touches, don’t forget the fence. It’s a safety must-have, but it can also complement your overall design with plenty of stylish options available just make sure it meets safety regulations.
Disadvantages (cons)
- Limited design options
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Higher initial (installation) costs than a vinyl liner pool
Limited Design options
Fiberglass pool designs generally aren't more than 16 feet wide, 40 feet long, and 8.5 feet deep. These dimensions are controlled by highway transport laws and regulations, because any fiberglass pool shell you choose will need to be trucked from a factory or dealership to your home.
Manufacturing fiberglass pool shells on pre-designed molds is great for quality control, but it will limit you to the shapes and sizes of any molds used by your manufacturer.
Higher initial (installation) costs than a vinyl liner pool
Fiberglass pools tend to cost more for both manufacturing and installation. Extensive retaining walls, water features, or other special add-ons will increase the project price further. You can read more here about the cost differences between fiberglass and vinyl liner pools here.
How do I choose a fiberglass pool manufacturer?
Not all fiberglass pool shells are created equal, and the difference often comes down to the manufacturer’s process and materials. To help you feel confident in your choice, here’s what to look for and ask during the vetting process.
Start with the Mold
The mold is the foundation for your entire pool. A poorly made or maintained mold can lead to structural and cosmetic issues down the road. When speaking with manufacturers, ask:
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How do you ensure your molds stay level?
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Are molds reinforced with steel to prevent twisting or warping?
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How are your molds stored and maintained when not in use?
These questions will help you assess whether the manufacturer prioritizes precision and quality control.
Ask About Warranties and Gelcoat Protection
When interviewing manufacturers, ask if their warranties will cover the gelcoat if osmotic blisters form. A quality fiberglass pool manufacturer should be confident enough in their process to make this promise.
Additional Interview Tips
When comparing fiberglass pool manufacturers, aim to:
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Understand their production process and quality checks
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Confirm they employ trained, experienced technicians in the factory
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Ask for references from customers who own their pools
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Inquire whether they work with local, trusted builders in your area
If you’re unsure where to begin, a reputable installer can often point you toward the manufacturers they trust most. We'll cover how to vet installers in the next section.
How do I find a reputable fiberglass pool installer?
Your pool shell is only as good as the team that installs it. Even a perfectly manufactured fiberglass pool can run into problems if it’s not installed correctly.
That’s why it’s important to interview multiple installers, ask good questions, and speak with their past customers. You’ll want to be sure your installer not only knows the process, but also how to prevent common issues before they happen.
Ask How They Handle Common Installation Challenges
Here are a few issues that can arise if shortcuts are taken:
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Settling or shifting of the pool shell
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Leaks in plumbing or fittings
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Separation between the pool and patio
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Bulges in the pool’s side walls
A trustworthy installer should be able to explain exactly how they have or would deal with these problems
Look for Proven Installation Methods
While not all builders will use the same approach, here are a few best practices we recommend:
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Fusing the pool shell and patio together to prevent separation
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Using plumbing straps to secure lines to the shell
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Installing schedule 40 PVC hard pipe for durability
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Backfilling with crushed or chipped stone instead of sand or dirt
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Encasing plumbing in stone to minimize shifting
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Pouring a 12-inch-thick concrete bond beam around the pool
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Adding a sump pipe to monitor and manage groundwater
These techniques help ensure your pool stays level, leak-free, and structurally sound for the long haul.
If you want keep researching fiberglass pools for your family, please reach out and contact us to request pricing.
We also have a comprehensive learning center with a ton of information surrounding inground pool care.
We've collected all the best and most up-to-date information on fiberglass pools in one detailed ebook, which you can download by clicking the banner below:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a fiberglass pool?
A: Fiberglass pools are one‑piece swimming pool shells made from fiberglass material. Unlike vinyl liner or concrete pools built on‑site in pieces, fiberglass pools are manufactured in a factory and delivered ready to install, which shortens installation time and reduces on‑site labor.
Q: How are fiberglass pool shells made?
A: Fiberglass pools are built in a factory using a mold that shapes the pool. Layers of fiberglass and resin are added for strength, and the inside is finished with a smooth gelcoat that looks great and resists algae. Once it’s done, the shell is shipped to your home, ready for installation.
Q: How long does it take to install a fiberglass pool?
A: Because the shell arrives ready to place in your yard, the installation process is typically just a few weeks, compared to months of construction for concrete or vinyl liner pools. Most fiberglass pool installs, including excavation, plumbing, backfill, and patio, are completed in about 3‑6 weeks.
Q: How much does a fiberglass pool cost?
A: On average, most fiberglass pool projects range from $85,000 to $200,000, with many turnkey packages landing in the $65,000-$100,000 range. The final cost depends on size, features (like lighting, waterfalls, decking), and local labor rates.
From the Author:
I’ve talked with thousands of pool shoppers over the years, and most of them start with some version of: “I just want to make the right choice… but I don’t know where to start.” Completely fair. Buying a pool is exciting, but you only get one shot at it—you’re not returning it to Amazon if it's not quite what you wanted.
I wrote this guide to give you a clear, straightforward look at how fiberglass pools are built, what they cost, how they’re installed, and what to look for in a manufacturer and installer. No hype, no scare tactics, and no confusing “industry speak.” Just useful info to help you make a confident decision.
If this guide helps you move forward with confidence—whether that leads you to fiberglass or somewhere totally different—then it’s done its job. And if you do end up in a fiberglass pool five months from now floating on a giant inflatable pizza, well, I’ll consider that a bonus.
From the Manufacturer:
At River Pools, we believe choosing a fiberglass pool should feel exciting, not overwhelming. That’s why this guide is available to walk you through every aspect of fiberglass pools, from how they’re built to what it’s like to own one. We’re here to help you feel confident, informed, and supported as you explore whether a fiberglass pool is the right fit for you.
When you’re ready to take the next step, we’ll help connect you with a trusted independent installer in your area who can answer any questions you may have about your future project.
Ready to start the conversation?
Further reading:
The Basics of Manufacturing and Installing a Fiberglass Pool
Fiberglass FAQ: 14 Most Common Questions about Fiberglass Pools
