What is the timeline for installing a pool? The truth is, the timeline depends on several factors, starting with the type of pool you choose. Fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete pools all follow very different installation schedules, and that’s before you even factor in permits, weather, site conditions, and the complexity of your design.
In this article, we’ll focus on the fiberglass pool installation timeline, walking you through each step of the process. We’ll also compare fiberglass with vinyl liner and concrete pool timelines, so you’ll know what to expect no matter which direction you’re considering.
How Long Does it Take to Install a Fiberglass Pool?
On average, a fiberglass pool installation takes about 3 to 5 weeks once permitting is complete. Some projects may be finished in as little as 2 weeks, while others may stretch closer to 6. Weather, site conditions, and the scheduling of inspections can all play a role in how long the project ultimately takes.
The truth of the matter is that most jobs will average this timeframe (not including any down-time):
- Permit: 1–10 weeks, depending on the county
- Excavation, Dig, Set, Backfill, Forming: 2–3 days
- Concrete Pour and Form Removal: 2–3 days (possibly longer for stamped concrete)
- Cleaning/Grading/Covering: 2–4 days
How is a Fiberglass Pool Installed?
The installation of a fiberglass pool follows a clear sequence of steps:
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Permit application and approval
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Excavation of the pool site
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Setting the fiberglass shell, connecting plumbing, backfilling, and filling with water
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Electrical hookup
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Forming and pouring the concrete pool deck
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Removing forms, patching, and finishing work
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Final grading and landscaping adjustments
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Cleaning the pool and installing a cover if necessary
While some television programs show a pool being completed in as little as 48 hours,
those situations are far from typical. They usually involve large crews, ideal weather, and little to no waiting for inspections.
Vinyl Liner Pool Installation Timeline Compared to Fiberglass
Compared to a fiberglass swimming pool installation, vinyl liner pools generally take longer to install. The average install of a vinyl pool is about 6 to 8 weeks.
The project starts with excavation, followed by assembling steel or polymer wall panels that form the structure of the pool. Plumbing is installed, and the base of the pool, often made from vermiculite or grout, is prepared. Once that’s complete, the custom vinyl liner is fitted into place.
Fiberglass pools arrive at your home as a pre-formed shell that can be placed quickly, while vinyl pools are built piece by piece in your yard. This step-by-step construction process naturally adds time. Vinyl pools do offer customization and are often more affordable up front, but complex designs can extend the timeline and increase costs.
Concrete Pool Installation Timeline Compared to Fiberglass
Concrete pools, sometimes called gunite or shotcrete pools, take the longest to build, but offer the most design flexibility. On average, installation can last three to six months.
Like vinyl, they are constructed entirely on site, but with even more steps. After excavation and rebar placement, plumbing is installed and the shell is formed by spraying gunite or shotcrete. The concrete must then cure, which can take weeks before finishing work like coping, tiling, and plastering begins.
In contrast, fiberglass pools are manufactured off-site in a controlled environment, which eliminates many of these extra stages. That’s why a fiberglass pool can be swim-ready in a matter of weeks, while a concrete pool requires a much longer commitment.
What Factors Affect Pool Installation Time?
No matter the type of pool, several factors influence the overall installation timeline. Permitting can be a major variable depending on local requirements.
Weather is another critical factor, just one heavy rain can delay a project by weeks, especially if the site doesn’t drain well.
The complexity of the design, such as adding custom features or decorative concrete, can also extend the schedule.
Finally, contractor availability and industry demand may affect how quickly the work can be completed. For the install of a fiberglass pool, these factors determine whether the project wraps up in three weeks or stretches to six.
When it comes to installing a fiberglass pool, or any type of pool, it’s sometimes tough to know exactly how long the process will take until construction is underway.
So consider these factors when your installer gives you job timeframe expectations. Remember that just setting and filling a pool does not mean that it is "installed."
In the end, regardless of what pool type you choose, we at River Pools want your pool to be a place to spend time with your loved ones and bring everyone together for summer fun. We hope this article helped you answer the question “how long does it take to install a pool” and gave you a better direction for your future pool project.
Browse our gallery for fiberglass pool inspiration. Curious about the cost? You can request custom pricing, or try out our free pool cost calculator to get an estimate!
Meet the Author: Marcus Sheridan
Hi, I’m Marcus Sheridan, Co-Founder of River Pools®. I’ve spent the past 20 years helping families make confident, well-informed decisions about inground pools, not by selling, but by educating.
I wrote this article to walk you through what to expect during the installation process. Having a clear understanding of the timeline makes the experience less stressful, and that’s exactly what I want for every homeowner we serve.
If you’re planning to install a fiberglass pool, my hope is that this guide helps you understand the process, set realistic expectations, and look forward to enjoying a pool that will bring your family together for years to come.
Message from the River Pools Manufacturing Team:
When you’re planning a backyard pool, understanding the installation timeline is just as important as choosing the pool itself. Knowing what to expect, from permitting to the final cleanup, can make the entire process smoother and far less stressful.
At River Pools, we manufacture high-quality fiberglass pools that are installed by our trusted independent dealer network across North America. Our goal is to make the installation of a fiberglass pool as predictable and efficient as possible, so you can start enjoying your backyard sooner.
If you’re ready to begin the process, we’ll connect you with an experienced local installer who can guide you through every stage, from the first dig to the first swim.
Let’s start your fiberglass pool journey
Up Next:
Pool Construction: Comparing Concrete, Vinyl Liner, and Fiberglass Installations
Fiberglass vs. Vinyl Liner vs. Concrete Pools: An Honest Comparison
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