Not All Fiberglass Pools Are Installed the Same Way

Most people don’t realize it—but how your pool is installed can make or break your investment. Here’s what the best installers do differently (and how to make sure you hire one of them).

Why the Material Beneath Your Pool Matters More Than You Think

After your fiberglass pool is lowered into the ground, the space around and beneath it gets filled with what’s called backfill material. Most homeowners never think about this step—but it plays a huge role in how well your pool holds up over time.

Some installers still use sand, a method that dates back decades. But here’s the problem: when sand gets wet, it shifts. It liquefies. And that can cause your pool to settle unevenly, crack, or develop plumbing issues.

That’s why today’s top installers use clean, crushed stone instead. Unlike sand, it locks into place, drains water efficiently, and provides a rock-solid foundation that keeps your pool structurally sound for the long haul.

If your installer isn’t using crushed stone, it’s worth asking why.

How to Prevent Hidden Leaks Before They Start

Pool plumbing might seem out of sight and out of mind—but it shouldn’t be. One of the leading causes of leaks is simple: pipe movement.

As the ground settles or shifts over time, pipes that aren’t properly secured can strain against fittings and fixtures. This can lead to cracks, leaks, and damage to vital components like return jets and skimmers.

That’s why the best installers use plumbing straps to fasten pipes directly to the fiberglass pool shell. This extra step helps keep everything stable and stress-free, protecting your pool’s plumbing system for the long haul.

If the pipes aren’t supported with straps, the entire system is more vulnerable than you might think.

Why the Best Installers Surround Pool Plumbing with Stone

Your pool's plumbing doesn’t just need to be connected—it needs to be protected.

One of the smartest moves top installers make is to fully encase plumbing lines in clean, crushed stone. This extra step helps prevent the pipes from shifting as the ground naturally settles over time, which is one of the most common causes of leaks and plumbing failures.

Unlike loose soil or sand, stone provides consistent support and drainage, minimizing stress on the pipes and joints. The result? A longer-lasting plumbing system with fewer surprises.

It’s one of those behind-the-scenes details you won’t see—but you'll be glad it's there.

Why Every Pool Needs a Way to Handle Groundwater

There may come a time when your fiberglass pool needs to be drained—often after severe weather or flooding, when a deep clean is necessary.

But draining a pool isn't something to take lightly. If groundwater has built up around the outside of the shell, it can create hydrostatic pressure that pushes against the floor and walls. Without a way to relieve that pressure, the stress could lead to costly structural damage.

That’s why advanced installers include a sump pipe, or dewatering pipe. It allows a pool professional to monitor and safely remove groundwater before draining, reducing the risk of damage.

Just take note: draining a fiberglass pool is not a DIY task. Always call a pool professional to do it the right way.

This simple feature, combined with expert guidance, adds an extra layer of protection for your pool’s long-term health.