Fibreglass Pool FAQs: Top Five Questions New Buyers Always Ask

If you're considering installing a fibreglass pool, you likely have a few questions before making your decision. From cost and installation time to maintenance and durability, understanding the key benefits of fibreglass pools will help you make an informed decision.

Fibreglass pools are known for their fast installation, low maintenance, and long-term durability, making them a popular choice for Australian homeowners. Here you will find out everything you need to know before buying a fibreglass pool.

We talk to buyers every day who are weighing up whether a fibreglass pool or a concrete pool is the way to go. It isn’t a quick yes-or-no decision either. Maybe someone told you fibreglass pools crack. Or that they don’t look as sharp as concrete. Or maybe you're just wondering if all the fuss about “low maintenance and fast install” actually stacks up.

Here’s what helping over a thousand Aussies has taught us: fibreglass pools have come a long way. And if you’re after a beautiful, durable pool without the blowout budget, they’re worth a serious look.

We’ve pulled together the top five questions almost every new buyer asks us. Whether you're still tossing up pool types or already halfway down the rabbit hole, this guide will help you cut through the sales spin and make a confident call for your backyard.

1. What is a Fibreglass Pool?

If you’re new to fibreglass pools, here’s the short version: it’s a one-piece pool shell, made off-site on a mould, delivered to your property ready to drop straight into the ground.

We’ve delivered a lot of pools around Australia, and one of the biggest eye-openers for new buyers is just how quick the process is. Unlike concrete pools, which are built onsite over months, fibreglass pools show up ready to go. That means faster installation, fewer trades, and being ready to go for your first swim in as little as two weeks.

How Are Fibreglass Pools Made?

Quality fibreglass pools (35-year lifetime structural warranty) are built with multiple reinforced layers to keep them strong, flexible, and long-lasting. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Gelcoat Surface – This is the smooth, coloured layer you see and feel. It resists UV rays and algae and gives that polished finish pool owners love.
• Barrier Layer – Made from vinyl-ester resin, this layer stops water from seeping through the shell wall.
• Reinforced Layers – A combo of polyester resin and high-grade fibreglass matting. It’s engineered to flex with your soil (especially important for reactive clay soils in Australia) without cracking.
  
  

Benefits of Fibreglass Construction

• If you have a reactive soil type (H1, H2, or even P class), a fibreglass pool’s natural flex gives it a big advantage over rigid concrete in terms of preventing cracks.
• The gelcoat surface is also non-porous, so you’ll deal with less algae, fewer chemicals, and a lot less brushing down the surface of your pool compared to concrete.
• And here’s another underrated benefit: Fibreglass pools hold heat better than concrete. You’ll enjoy warmer water for longer, especially if you’re using an electric heat pump, and lower energy bills over time.
  
  

2. Are Concrete Pools Better Than Fibreglass?

It’s one of the most common questions we get. The truth? It really depends on what you’re after, but fibreglass pools have some big advantages that make them the go-to for a lot of Aussie homeowners.

Why Choose a Fibreglass Pool?

• Low Maintenance: The non-porous surface resists algae growth, meaning fewer chemicals and less frequent cleaning.
• Quick Installation: Fibreglass pools can be installed and ready to use in weeks, while concrete pools require months of onsite construction.
• Durability: Unlike concrete, fibreglass pools flex with ground movement, reducing the risk of cracks and leaks.
• Peace of Mind: Fibreglass pool owners are protected against cracking for up to 35 years. Concrete is limited to 10 years.
• Energy Efficiency: Retains heat better, saving money on pool heating costs.
  
  

3. How Much Does a Fibreglass Pool Cost?

Every fibreglass pool buyer wants to know about pricing, and fair enough. The cost can vary quite a bit depending on the pool size, site access, equipment and how hands-on you want to be with the install.

A DIY fibreglass pool shell starts from around $14,000 for something like a 4.5-metre plunge pool, but that’s just the shell. Once you factor in equipment and installation, you’ll want to budget at least $30,000 for a standard setup on a flat, accessible site.

If you’re going through a full-service pool builder, expect prices to start from $39,000. By comparison, a similar-sized concrete pool usually starts at $50,000.

Long-Term Savings with Fibreglass Pools

A big part of the value in fibreglass is what you save over time.

• Lower chemical use – The non-porous surface makes it harder for algae to cling on, so you’re using fewer chemicals and spending less on maintenance.
• Better heat retention – Fibreglass holds warmth longer, which means lower energy costs if you’re heating the pool.
• Fewer repairs – No need for resurfacing every 10 to 15 years like a concrete pool. That’s thousands saved long-term.

What Can Affect the Cost?

A few common factors that can nudge the price up:

• Site conditions – Uneven ground, limited access or reactive soil
• Optional extras – Heating systems, lighting, fencing, decking and landscaping
• Install complexity – The more excavation or craning involved, the more you’ll need to allow for in the budget.

At Complete Fibreglass Pool Kits, all our shells are backed by a 35-year Lifetime Structural Warranty and finished with Australian-made AquaGuard-X™ gelcoat. It’s built to handle our tough climate and offers serious fade and chemical resistance, so you get value that lasts.

4. Can Fibreglass Pools Be Heated?

Many homeowners wonder whether fibreglass pools can be heated. The short answer is yes. Fibreglass pools are one of the best options for heating efficiency due to their natural insulation properties.

Why Fibreglass Pools Are Ideal for Heating

Fibreglass naturally insulates better than concrete or vinyl liner pools:

• Superior heat retention – The fibreglass shell helps hold warmth in the water for longer, which means you’ll use less energy to keep your pool at a comfortable temperature
• Faster to heat – Because the shell doesn’t absorb heat like concrete does, your water heats up more quickly and stays warmer for longer.

It’s a smart choice if you’re planning to swim outside the hot summer months or just want your pool to feel great in the mornings or evenings.

Best Heating Option for Fibreglass Pools

For most of our customers, electric heat pumps are the go-to. They’re energy-efficient and work by drawing heat from the surrounding air, even in cooler conditions, to maintain a stable water temperature without running up a massive power bill.

Does Pool Colour Affect Heat Retention?

Yep, it can — but only slightly.

• Darker colours tend to absorb more sunlight, warming the water by up to 1.5°C naturally.
• Lighter colours reflect more heat, which helps keep the water cooler in hot climates.

Either way, the colour choice is more about personal preference and the overall look you want in your backyard. Choose a colour you absolutely love, and you won't be thinking about water temperature difference.

5. Can Fibreglass Pools Be Installed Above-Ground?

Yes, fibreglass pools can be installed above-ground, but they require additional structural reinforcement to ensure long-term stability of the pool walls. Most fibreglass shells are designed for in-ground installs, but in the right circumstances, above-ground or partially above-ground installs are a solid solution — especially on sloped blocks or tight-access sites where digging isn’t practical.

Unlike in-ground pools, an above-ground fibreglass pool needs extra ribbing and reinforcement to handle the pressure of thousands of litres of water pushing outwards on the walls. If it’s not properly supported, that pressure can cause movement or long-term damage.

Done right, above-ground fibreglass pools can be a smart, budget-friendly option for tricky sites. You’ll often avoid:

• Extensive excavation
  
  
• Retaining walls
  
  
• Soil removal

That can mean a faster and more affordable install.

And with some clever decking or cladding, it’s easy to make the finished pool look completely integrated with your outdoor space.

Not All Shells Are Suitable

It’s important to know that not every fibreglass pool is designed for above-ground installation. You need a shell that’s been engineered and reinforced specifically for that purpose.

At Complete Fibreglass Pool Kits, our above-ground models are built to meet Australian Standards for strength and durability - so you'll own a pool that’s not just compliant, but genuinely built to last.

Choosing the Right Fibreglass Pool for Your Home

Fibreglass pools offer fast installation, low maintenance, and long-lasting durability - making them a smart, no-fuss investment for homeowners across Australia.

Whether you’re after a cost-effective inground option or need a reinforced above-ground solution, fibreglass pools deliver serious value without compromising on looks or performance.

Thanks to their smooth gelcoat finish, better heat retention and resistance to algae growth, fibreglass pools are easier to care for than concrete or vinyl liner pools. And because the shells are designed to flex with ground movement, you’re also getting peace of mind that your pool will hold up for the long haul.

If you’re still weighing up your options, explore our full range of fibreglass pools — or get in touch if you like to have a chat. We’ve helped over 1,000 Aussies find the right fit for their backyard, and we’re happy to help you too.