What to Know about a Fiberglass Pool Installation

What Makes Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools Different? 

We are proud of our one-piece in-ground fiberglass swimming pools.  Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools are constructed using only the most proven gel coats and vinyl ester resins available. This, combined with an average thickness that is greater than industry standards, allows us to produce what we believe is one of the strongest and most reliable fiberglass pools on the market. The meticulous engineering behind our Barrier Reef Fiberglass pools ensures superior durability and longevity. To learn more, check out our pool manufacturing process.

The Appeal of a Fiberglass Pool Installation

There are many reasons to love a Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pool!  Durability, stunning designs, features, and lower maintenance costs.  But many homeowners find how much quicker and easier a fiberglass install can be to be the most appealing aspect.  Here are some reasons why a fiberglass pool installation is quicker and easier than vinyl or Gunite pools.

Pre-Manufactured Design: Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools are designed and built at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Timmonsville, South Carolina.  Each pool is then shipped to one of our six distribution yards across the U.S. and delivered as a single piece to your backyard. This pre-manufactured design eliminates the need for on-site construction, significantly reducing installation time.

Simplified Excavation: Since the fiberglass pool is pre-shaped and pre-sized, the excavation process is straightforward. The hole can be dug quickly and accurately to match the pool’s dimensions, minimizing the need for adjustments.

Rapid Placement: Once the excavation is complete, the Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pool is delivered and placed into the hole in one piece and leveled, often within a matter of one day. This process contrasts with the multi-step construction required for Gunite pools, which can take several months due to the need for curing time and on-site customization. Vinyl liner pools also require a more involved installation process, including the construction of a frame and careful fitting of the liner.​

Streamlined Plumbing and Backfilling: The plumbing and backfilling processes can occur simultaneously with filling the pool with water, ensuring the pool remains level. This concurrent work speeds up the overall installation process.

Minimal Weather Delays: The installation of a fiberglass pool is generally quicker and less impacted by weather conditions because it involves placing a prefabricated shell into the prepared site. This process is not dependent on weather-sensitive stages such as curing or drying, which are necessary for Gunite pools.  Gunite pools require multiple steps, including pouring, curing, and plastering, which can be significantly delayed by inclement weather since these materials need time to set and harden properly. In contrast, fiberglass pools can be installed even in less-than-ideal weather conditions because the main structure is already complete and just needs to be placed and secured in the excavation site.​

Reduced Complexity: The simplicity of the one-piece design means fewer variables and complications during installation. This leads to fewer unexpected issues and delays, ensuring a smoother and faster process overall.

Fiberglass Pool Installation Process

Now that you know a little about why the fiberglass pool installation process is quicker and easier, let’s discuss the actual steps an authorized Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools installer will take to get the fiberglass pool in your backyard. 

Step 1:  Fiberglass Pool Excavation

For accuracy, prior to installation a pre-construction meeting is set-up by the builder, and that includes laying out the design of the pool in your backyard. A dig sheet is used for the excavation that is specific to your pool’s design and shape. The hole is dug meticulously, backfilled, and compacted to prevent unwanted settling.

Step 2: Fiberglass Pool Delivery

Your fiberglass pool arrives at your home on a truck-trailer. Professionals will offload your pool from the trailer and lower it into place in the excavated hole after a compacted bed of gravel is prepared. Guide stakes, string lines, and laser levels will ensure accurate placement and leveling during the in-ground pool installation.

Step 3: Fiberglass Pool Leveling

After placing the pool on the gravel bed, the floor of the pool, the swimming pool installer will inspect it to ensure that there are no voids or humps that were formed during the placement. Water is then added to the pool simultaneously along with backfill. Continuous checking of the levelness of the pool is critical.

Step 4: Fiberglass Pool Plumbing

While water and backfill is being done, the installer will connect the plumbing from the pool to the equipment pad location.

Step 5: Fiberglass Pool Deck Preparation

After water and back-fill have been completed, gravel is prepped for the surrounding pool deck. Typical decking includes concrete or pavers. Final leveling and shape adjustments and bonding are done at this stage.

Step 6: Fiberglass Pool Coping

At this point the concrete decking, pavers or combination of the two are installed around the pool. The installer also will integrate accessories and features such as handrails, ladders, water sheers and deck jets.

Step 7: Time to Enjoy your Fiberglass Pool!

There are many important factors to consider before installing your fiberglass pool, but rest assured, you're in good hands! Ready to turn your dream pool into a reality? We're here to transform your vision into a stunning aquatic oasis. Let's embark on this exciting journey together. Contact us today to dive into the process of building your own bespoke pool – where relaxation meets sophistication. Your perfect pool is just a conversation away. Reach out, and let's make waves!