The Installation of a Fiberglass Wading Pool

Materials and Installation

• Fiberglass is one of several different materials used for wading pools. Others include cement, synthetic linear inserts and vinyl. Regardless of lining material, all in-ground pools begin in the same fashion. Outline the area in which your pool is to be sited. Prepare to dig out the area in which the pool will sit. Consider whether or not to include drainage systems, pump systems or piped water intakes. If you choose to include these features, determine where pipes and drains will be located. Fiberglass pools are pre-formed. Choose a pool that is the right size and shape for your desired location. Large fiberglass pools are installed by professionals who use a crane to lower fragile fiberglass into a prepared site. Small fiberglass pools should be handled with care to prevent cracking and warping but can be carried and gently lowered into place manually.

Preparing the Site

• Fiberglass pools need protection from rocks and debris. They also need to be able to adapt to freeze and thaw cycles. Dense and poorly draining soils may collect rainwater below the fiberglass. When this water freezes and thaws, it will crack and damage fiberglass. Loose, expansive soils may erode at the pool edge, leaving openings and gaps. Determine your soil type by submitting soil samples to the appropriate agency. In the United States, the USDA Soil Conservation Service will help determine your soil type and best drainage methods. Once the digging commences, take care to follow the measurements of the pre-formed fiberglass pool. Place smooth sand along the bottom surface of the hole to create a protective layer for the fiberglass. Lower the fiberglass shell into the prepared area, taking care to align drain openings with drain pipes. Create a berm, using earth, along the outer edge of the pool to prevent runoff from leaking under the fiberglass.

Above-ground Pools

• Fiberglass pools can also be installed above ground. When installing pools on decks or patios, ensure that the structure is capable of supporting the weight of a water-filled pool. Above-ground fiberglass pools are more likely to crack when exposed to cool temperatures because they do not have the insulated protection of in-ground pools. Above-ground pools, however, can be placed indoors during cool weather. Be certain to drain the pool to prevent ice-induced cracks and damage.

Considerations

• When choosing a site for your fiberglass pool, take into account the amount of direct sunlight the pool will receive each day. High amounts of direct sunlight , six hours of more, will encourage algal growth. Warm temperatures provided by direct sunlight can harm fish and plants located in ornamental pools. Ornamental fiberglass pools can be used in cool climates, but fish will be unable to overwinter in the shallow water. Winterize these pools by draining them prior to the onset of freezing temperatures.