Can Fibreglass Pools Be Installed Above Ground?

Have you always wanted a swimming pool but thought it was out of reach due to the cost or the layout of your backyard? The good news is: yes, fibreglass pools can be installed above ground (or partially above ground). Above-ground installations are often more cost-effective, faster to install, and can work brilliantly on sloping or tricky blocks.

Fibreglass pools are built in factories and shipped to your property for installation. If your yard doesn’t suit a fully in-ground pool (or you’re looking to reduce excavation costs), an above-ground fibreglass pool could be the perfect solution.

Different Ways To Install A Fibreglass Pool

There are three common installation approaches:

1. In-ground – The classic option. Best suited to flat blocks with enough access and space.
2. Semi above ground (partially in-ground) – Ideal for sloping or uneven sites. Part of the pool shell is buried, with a portion above ground.
3. Above ground – A great choice if you want to minimise excavation and speed up installation. You can integrate the pool into an existing patio or build a deck around it so you don’t have to compromise on looks.

Installing above ground doesn’t mean you can’t have the surrounds and design you’ve always wanted — with the right finishes and landscaping, it can become a real statement feature.

Benefits Of An Above-Ground Fibreglass Pool

Convenience

Above ground pools are typically more cost effective than fully in-ground pools and are often quicker to install. By reducing (or avoiding) excavation, you can cut down on time and associated site costs. To meet Australian regulations for safety, your pool must be installed on a suitable, level base — but overall, there’s generally less construction involved compared to a fully in-ground build.

Aesthetics

If an in-ground pool isn’t possible for your site, an above-ground pool can still look incredible. Clever decking, screening, retaining solutions, and landscaping can help it blend seamlessly with your outdoor area.

Cost

For many homeowners, budget is the deciding factor. Above-ground installations can be thousands of dollars less than fully in-ground builds (especially if excavation is complex). You’re still getting a premium fibreglass pool shell — just with a more cost-efficient installation approach.

Durability

High-quality fibreglass pool shells are manufactured with strength and flexibility in mind. They’re designed to accommodate minor earth movement and can perform just as well above ground as they do in-ground when installed correctly and properly supported.

Typical Cost Of An Above-Ground Pool

Costs vary depending on size, brand, site access, finishes, decking/retaining needs, and installation complexity. As a general guide, one version of this article referenced:

• Above-ground pool kit averages around $1,500 (excluding installation)
• Kit ranges can vary between $850 to $8,200
• Professional installation can be around $1,000 to $3,000
• Resulting in an “average” total range referenced of approximately $1,850 to $4,977

Note: Real-world pricing can be higher once you include decking, retaining walls, access constraints, electrical, fencing/compliance, and site-specific requirements.

Typical Depth Of A Fibreglass Pool

Depth depends on the pool model, profile, and intended use. One version of this article referenced these general ranges:

• Pools smaller than 27’ (approx.) often range from 3.5’ to 5.5’ deep
• 27’ to 35’ pools can range from 3.5’ to 6.5’ deep
• 35’ to 44’ pools can range from 3.5’ to 8.5’ deep

Fibreglass Vs Vinyl Pools

Fibreglass pools are known for being exceptionally durable — and in one referenced example, they can last the lifetime of a home when maintained properly. Vinyl liner pools can also last a long time, but liners often need replacement roughly every 10 years.

More Reasons People Choose Above-Ground Fibreglass

Helps Set Your Pool Deck At The Right Level

Many homeowners want the pool deck to sit higher than the house or flow cleanly from an elevated outdoor area. An above-ground fibreglass pool can be ideal for this — but it must be installed with proper structural support (often including retaining walls and engineered backfill support), then finished with decking or cladding.

Helps Keep Your Pool Above A Floodplain

If your property is low-lying and prone to flooding, raising the pool can help. As with all builds in flood-prone areas, proper engineering, drainage, and structural support are critical.

Ideal For Hillsides / Sloping Blocks

On a slope, you may intentionally keep the downhill side exposed — which is where retaining, erosion control, and professional installation experience becomes essential.