How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Shell Cost?

The cost of fiberglass pool shells can range between $4,500 and $30,000, with an average price of $8,750. Factors that affect the price include the shell's shape, size, and depth. Custom fiberglass pool shells with additions like spas and tanning shelves are the most expensive. 

Fiberglass Pool Insert Cost

Fiberglass Pool Shell Cost Factors

The shape and size of your fiberglass pool shell affect the price. Shells in custom sizes or unique shapes can cost upwards of $30,000, while shells in standard sizes and shapes can cost as little as $4,500.

Size

Shape

Fiberglass Pool Installation Costs 

In addition to budgeting for the shell itself, it's a good idea to budget for installation costs as well. Fiberglass pool installation costs usually range from $10,000 to $20,000. 

These costs typically include:

Size

Bigger pools require more labor and materials to install, so you can expect to pay more to install a larger pool than you would a small pool. 

Shipping

If you need any materials for your pool installation shipped to your home, these shipping costs will be factored into the overall installation price. Shipping costs vary significantly depending on the size and weight of the item. 

Land Preparation or Excavation

In many cases, your installers will need to prep or excavate the land before they install the pool. Extensive preparation and excavation can considerably drive up costs. 

Location 

Labor rates vary by location, so it's a good idea to call around and ask for estimates from multiple companies. Additionally, if your pool installation site is in a hard-to-reach location or very far from the installers' headquarters, you might incur an additional location charge. 

Permits

Before installing your pool, you might need a builder's permit. Permit requirements and prices vary by location, but they usually range from $475 to $1,900. However, most homeowners will pay closer to the lower end of that range.  

Filter Pump

Filter pumps help keep your pool clean and swimmable. Filter pump prices vary by size and features, so you can work with your pool installers to find a filter that aligns with your budget and needs. 

Backfill

Backfilling involves filling in any remaining gaps in the ground around your pool after it's installed. Backfill typically includes sand, gravel, or dirt, depending on your landscape. 

Water

Of course, after installing the pool, you probably want to swim in it! In which case, you'll need to fill it with water. Most pool installers will complete this step for you, including the cost in the overall installation price.

Fiberglass Pool Add-Ons 

If you're installing additional features on your pool to make it even more enjoyable, such as decking, lighting, and fencing, you should budget for their costs. Additionally, it's helpful to budget for annual maintenance costs. 

Maintenance Costs

Fiberglass pools are usually less expensive to maintain than other pool types, typically ranging from $375 to $600 annually. In comparison, homeowners often spend $1,080 to $1,800 per year in annual maintenance for many other pool types. 

Some installers offer maintenance programs for as little as $15 per month. It’s helpful to maintain your pool regularly to avoid bigger repair costs down the road.

Add-Ons

There are many popular pool add-ons you can install to further enhance your pool, including: 

Decking

Pool decks cost around $3,000 to $12,000 to build, depending on your deck's size and material. 

Lighting

Installing pool lights usually costs between $450 and $1,700. LED lights typically cost the most, while incandescent and fiber optic lights are usually the most affordable. 

Heater

Installing a pool heater is a great way to extend your swimming season. Pool heaters generally range from $1,900 to $6,500, depending on their size, quality, and features. 

Fencing 

Fencing helps prevent unsupervised pets and kids from entering the pool area, so it's an important safety measure. It can also help enhance the aesthetic of your pool. 

Pool fencing usually costs $9 to $125 per square foot, so a 160-foot enclosure will range from $1,500 to $20,000, depending on your fence's height and material. 

Landscaping

Landscaping costs range from $4 to $10 per square foot. Basic landscaping services, such as aerating, dethatching, and planting flowers usually costs $4 to $6 per square foot. More extensive landscaping services, like installing flower beds and raised gardens, usually costs $6 to $10 per square foot. 

Enclosures

Pool enclosures can give you an indoor pool experience outside. Enclosures usually range from $6,300 to $20,000. The material you choose affects the cost, with vinyl enclosures being the most affordable and glass and wood enclosures costing the most. 

Fiberglass Pool Kit Prices

Pool kits range from $5,000 for simple round models to $20,000 or more for custom-built kits. These averages do not include the cost of additional materials or labor for installation. 

Fiberglass pool kits vary, but most include:

• Pre-plumbed pool shell

• Pump

• Filter

• Fittings

• Glue and primer

• Flex hose

• Auto chlorinator

• Plumbing materials

Be prepared to pay for some hidden costs associated with DIY pool shell installation. Equipment rental, water, backfill material, and other necessary expenditures can add up quickly.

In-Ground Pool Kits Prices vs. Above Ground

An above-ground pool kit costs between $2,500 and $7,500. Installing an above-ground pool costs $720 to $3,700. This is less expensive than an in-ground kit, which can cost up to $45,000 with installation.

DIY vs. Pro Pool Builder 

Installing a fiberglass pool yourself will save you anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 in installation costs. However, unless you purchase a DIY pool kit or have pool-building expertise, we recommend hiring a pro pool builder for the job since it's an invasive, often complicated project best suited for professionals. 

FAQs

Is a fiberglass pool worth the money?

It all depends on what you want from your fiberglass pool. If you’d like a lower-maintenance pool (relative to other types) with greater energy efficiency and a relatively quick installation timeframe, then a fiberglass pool is probably worth your investment. However, if affordability is at the top of your pool priority list, you might prefer a more inexpensive vinyl pool. 

How long do fiberglass pools usually last?

You can expect about 25 years from your fiberglass pool with relatively little maintenance. However, if you don't maintain its pH levels, that lifespan can drop to 10 years or less as the chemicals damage the shell.

Which is more expensive: a fiberglass pool or a vinyl pool?

Fiberglass pools are typically more expensive than vinyl pools, but they're less expensive than concrete pools. Fiberglass pools are also typically less expensive to maintain than vinyl and concrete pools.