Getting Started: Planning Your DIY Fibreglass Pool

Ever thought about installing your own fibreglass pool? You’re not alone—it’s exciting, but maybe a little nerve-wracking too, right? The good news is, with the right plan and a bit of elbow grease, you’ll be cooling off quicker than you can say “no running around the pool” to the kids. Sure, it might seem like a big job, but trust me, fibreglass pools are DIY-friendly because they come as a single, ready-made shell. No complicated construction, no months of waiting around. You just need a solid plan, a clear understanding of each step, and maybe a cold bevvy to get through the hot days.

And the best part? These pools don’t just look great—they’re tough as nails and easy to maintain. Unlike that DIY bookshelf from last year, this one won’t end up crooked! So, whether you’re building a family hangout spot or a chic lap pool, we’re here to help make it happen with minimal fuss. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can budget, plan, and install with confidence.

Slip. slop, slap - let’s do this!

Understanding the Benefits of a DIY Fibreglass Pool

So, why choose a DIY fibreglass pool in the first place? For starters, fibreglass pools have become the top pick for backyard DIY projects across Australia, and it’s easy to see why. They arrive at your home as a single pre-formed shell, meaning there’s no fussing around with complicated structures or waiting for weeks on end. Once the hole is dug and the site is prepped, the shell can be placed in place in a matter of hours. Compare that to concrete pools —months of work, endless tradies coming and going—who’s got time for that?

But it’s not just about the speedy install. Fibreglass pools are also:

• They’re super low-maintenance thanks to their smooth, non-porous surface. That means less algae build-up, fewer chemicals, and more weekends actually enjoying your pool instead of maintaining it.
• Plus, the gelcoat finish on fibreglass pools makes them highly resistant to stains and scratches, keeping your pool looking pristine for years to come.

Another huge perk? Fibreglass is one of the most durable materials around. These pools are built to withstand ground movement in clay soils, extreme weather, and heavy use, making them a solid long-term investment. Unlike vinyl liners that may need replacing every few years or concrete pools that require resurfacing or can crack with ground movement, fibreglass pools are designed to last decades with minimal upkeep.

So, whether you’re dreaming of a backyard family fun zone, a compact courtyard pool, or a sleek lap pool for your morning swims, a DIY fibreglass pool checks all the boxes: durability, beauty, and ease of installation. You really can have it all.

Assessing Your Space and Location

Before you jump headfirst into your DIY fibreglass pool project, take a good, hard look at your backyard. This step is crucial—think of it like a blank canvas before you create your Picasso-like pool masterpiece!

1. The first step is to take a good, hard look at your yard.

   Is your space:

   Flat?

   Sloped?

   A bit of a jungle?

   Fibreglass pools can handle most terrains, but if your yard’s on a slope, you might need to level it out or build retaining walls. No biggie, but keep in mind that it will affect your budget and timeline. Better to figure that out now than when you are knee-deep in your project, right?

2. Next, you need to think about size.

   Got loads of room to play with? A larger pool means more room for epic pool parties, family fun, and maybe even some bomb competitions.

   Yard is on the smaller side? Don’t sweat it. A compact fibreglass pool, like a plunge pool or lap pool, can still make a huge splash. Without a doubt, the fun you’ll have isn’t measured by the size of the pool—it’s about the memories you’ll make.

   Read more on How To Choose The Right Size Pool For Your Family

3. Finally, don’t forget to factor in access for construction equipment.

   Ideally, you’ll want at least 3 meters of space for excavation equipment to get through. If access is tight, smaller equipment can still do the job, but it might take a bit longer (and cost a little more). As for the pool shell itself, don’t worry—a crane can hoist it over your house, no problem. Most pools are lightweight, and getting it lifted won’t break the bank (often not more than $1,000).

   So, before you grab the shovel, take some time to assess your space and figure out how your pool is going to fit. It’ll save you a lot of headaches later and set you up for a smooth installation.

Budgeting for Your DIY Fibreglass Pool

We get it—budgeting isn’t the most exciting part of planning your dream pool, but it’s something you can’t afford to dodge. Remember, fibreglass pools are a smart investment because they’re durable, low-maintenance, and quick to install—saving you time and money in the long run. Setting a clear budget from the start will help you stay on track and avoid any unwelcome surprises down the line.

So, where do you begin? Start by thinking about the big-ticket items: the pool shell, filtration equipment, excavation, installation materials, concrete bond beam and delivery. Then, factor in costs for any extras, like plumbing, electricals, fencing, paving and landscaping. If you're like most people, there’s always that temptation to add all the bells and whistles. Just remember, you can always add that fancy water feature heating system later if it’s pushing your budget now.

Here’s a tip to consider—spending a little extra on a top-quality pool shell might feel like a stretch, but it’ll save you in the long run. Think about it this way: an extra $1,500 spread over 10 years is peanuts (only $150 a year) for peace of mind. Don’t get ripped off - make sure your fibreglass pool shell is built to last.

It’s also essential to budget for safety and compliance. Pool fencing, electrical work, and council approvals aren’t the most glamorous parts of the project, but they’re mandatory. Skimping here could lead to higher costs and dramas down the track, so it’s worth doing it right from the start.

Finally, be sure to leave some wiggle room in your budget for unexpected expenses. Building a solid budget and sticking to it will keep your DIY fibreglass pool project running smoothly—without sacrificing the features that’ll make your backyard a slice of paradise.

Read more on installation options and whether you should hire professional help Choosing the Right DIY Swimming Pool Kit for Your Budget and Space.

Navigating Council Approvals and Regulations

Before you start tearing up the backyard, make sure you’ve got your ducks in a row—paperwork-wise. No one wants a “Stop Work” notice from the council when they’re halfway through the dig! Understanding the permits and regulations ahead of time will save you a world of headaches.

1. First, check with your local council or a private certifier.

   Start by checking with your local council or a private certifier to find out what permits you’ll need. Most councils require approval for the pool itself, as well as fencing and safety barriers to meet Australian standards. It might sound like a hassle, but don’t worry—at Complete Fibreglass Pool Kits, we provide engineering drawings and specifications to make this step a whole lot easier.

2. Next, look into your property’s unique requirements.

   Next, take a look at any property-specific requirements. Are there easements, setbacks, or underground utilities that could affect where you put your pool? Knowing these details early on can save you from having to redo your plans later. And if your property has tricky soil or a steep slope, a geotechnical survey (fancy name for a soil test) is a smart move.

The good news? Once you’ve ticked all the boxes and sorted the approvals, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your pool is compliant and ready for a smooth installation. This is just one more step to make sure your DIY project goes off without a hitch.

Choosing the Right Pool Kit for Your Needs

Picking the right fibreglass pool kit is like choosing the perfect car—it’s all about finding the right fit for your lifestyle, budget, and space. The good news? There’s a fibreglass pool for just about every backyard, whether you’re after a small plunge pool for kicking back or a full-sized family pool for epic cannonball contests.

1. First, consider how you plan to use the pool.

   First, think about how you plan to use the pool. Is it for chilling out after a long day, or are you setting up a splash zone for the kids and their mates? If relaxation’s the goal, a compact plunge pool with built-in seating could be the way to go. But if you’ve got a big family (and even bigger pool parties in mind), go for something larger with plenty of room for swimming, playing, and lounging around.

2. Next, think about the shape.

   Do you prefer the classic rectangular look, or are you after that fancy resort-style vibe with a freeform pool? Rectangular pools are the most popular in Australia, but if space is a bit tight, a narrow lap pool can still give you that sleek look while making the most of a smaller area.

And don’t forget the extras! Does your kit come with all the essentials—pump, filter, skimmer, and even the first lot of pool salt? What about the warranty on the shell and equipment? Make sure you’ve got the full package, and having detailed DIY videos to guide you through the process is a lifesaver too. The more complete the kit, the smoother your project will run, leaving you to enjoy your pool in no time.

Choosing the right fibreglass pool kit from the start means less hassle and more time enjoying your backyard oasis.

What’s included in a Complete Fibreglass Pool Kit?

Planning the Installation Process: Step-by-Step

Now that you’ve got your pool kit sorted and your council approvals in hand, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cracking. Don’t worry—we’ve laid it all out in simple steps so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Site Preparation

First off, you’ll need to mark out where the pool’s going. Allow a bit of extra space around the edges for backfilling and getting the gear in. Once that’s done, it’s time to dig the hole. Sounds tough, but this is where the magic happens—this is where your pool will live! Just follow the measurements on your plans to make sure the hole is level and the right depth.

Step 2: Bedding Layer and Pool Placement

With the excavation sorted, it’s time to set up the bedding layer. This is what your pool will rest on, so no cutting corners here. Then comes the exciting bit—placing the fibreglass shell. Depending on your yard, you might need a crane or an excavator to get it into place. You’ll definitely want a few mates around to help guide it and double-check it’s level before you start backfilling.

Step 3: Plumbing and Electrical

Next, it’s time to get all the plumbing and pool lights sorted. The good news is, you won’t need a plumber unless you are connecting a line from your filter to mains sewer. Plumbing up the pool and installing the low-voltage lights is a pretty straightforward DIY job. For anything mains electrical though, call in a licensed sparky to handle the power points and earthing requirements.

Step 4: Backfilling and Bond Beam

Once the plumbing’s all good, start backfilling around the pool shell to lock it in place. Make sure you’re using backfill material that meets Australian Standards. Keep an eye on the level as you go—if the shell drops a little, don’t panic, it’s normal and fibreglass shells can be lifted during the process. Once backfilling’s done, give it 72 hours before pouring the concrete bond beam. Follow the engineering details if you are doing the bond beam DIY or bring in a concreter to do this for you.

Step 5: Filling the Pool and Final Touches

With the bond beam done, it’s time to give your pool a thorough clean and vacuum, balance the water chemistry, and then it’s all about the finishing touches—landscaping, paving, decking. And boom—you’ve built your own backyard oasis!

Read More: For a deep dive read our blog Professional Tips for a Flawless Installation

Common DIY Challenges

No DIY project is without its hiccups, and installing a fibreglass pool is no different. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the most common challenges people face, along with tips to help you avoid them.

Issue 1: Council Approval Delays

One of the biggest holdups? Getting council approval. The easiest way to avoid delays is to make sure you’ve got all the required paperwork sorted from the get-go. Every council has a checklist—grab it and tick off the boxes like a pro. And don’t sweat it, DIY pool companies like ours will provide you with all the technical documents, like engineering drawings, to keep things running smoothly. One thing to organise early is your site plan—a simple drawing that council requires, showing where the pool will sit in relation to your house and boundary fences.

If you’re strapped for time or don’t fancy dealing with the council yourself, call in a private certifier. They usually charge between $800 and $1,400, but they’ll fast-track things, so you can keep moving.

Issue 2: Incorrect Plumbing Fittings

Here’s a classic mistake—using the wrong plumbing fittings. But don’t stress, it’s easier than you think. You don’t need any specialised plumbing for most of the job. All you need is Class 9 PVC pipe, which you can pick up from any local hardware store. Just remember the general rule: use 50mm pipe from the pool to the pump and 40mm pipe from the pump back to the pool.

Issue 3: Soil with High Clay Content

If you’ve got clay soil, no need to panic. Reactive clay (the kind that expands and contracts with moisture) can affect the pool installation, but it’s manageable. You’ll just need to beef up the thickness of the bedding layer, backfill, and bond beam to protect the pool shell. Your DIY pool company will provide the engineering specs for this, so you’re not left guessing.

Finally, don’t forget about safety. Always wear the right protective gear, follow safety protocols when using machinery, and if you ever feel out of your depth, there’s no shame in calling for professional help. A well-done pool is a safe pool, after all.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Dive In?

So, are you ready to jump into your DIY fibreglass pool project? With the right planning, a solid budget, and a bit of elbow grease, you’ll be swimming in your own backyard oasis before you can say ‘She’ll be right mate.’ Not only will you save a heap on installation costs, but there’s nothing like the bragging rights of saying, “I built this beauty myself.”

The secret to nailing this DIY project? Preparation. Take your time with each step—assess your space, get those council approvals, choose the right pool kit, and follow the DIY installation videos and tip sheets. Don’t cut corners, and if things get tricky (we’ve all been there), don’t hesitate to call in an installer, sparky or plumber.

Feeling a bit nervous? Totally normal. Loads of first-time DIYers have the same worries but end up with pools they’re proud as punch about. So, jump in, enjoy the process, and before you know it, you’ll be splashing around in your very own pool.

Ready to get started? Reach out to us today us for advice, support, or to get started with the perfect fibreglass pool kit. Let’s turn your DIY dream into reality!

And don’t forget to download your free guide for even more tips and tricks to help you along the way.

Happy pool building!