FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions.
Learn answers to the most commonly asked fiberglass swimming pool questions. Thinking of buying a Fiberglass pool. Check out some questions below.
🏊♂️ Frequently Asked Questions — Aiken Pool & Patio
1. How much does a fiberglass pool cost?
Answer: The total cost of a fiberglass pool installation typically ranges from $50,000 to $120,000, depending on the pool size, features, site conditions, and finishes. At Aiken Pool & Patio, we provide detailed estimates and design consultations to help you stay within your desired budget. If you decide to go with a "Plunge Pool" then the cost does go down to a starting point of $35,000.
2. What is included in your pool installation packages?
Answer: Our standard packages include the fiberglass pool shell, excavation, delivery, basic plumbing, filter and pump system, saltwater conversion, concrete coping, and installation. We also offer upgrades like tanning ledges, waterfalls, louvered pergolas, and retaining walls, and several different styles of Tile , Travertine, and brick pool coping options. We have physical samples in our office that you can see.
3. Do fiberglass pools crack or blister?
Answer: Modern fiberglass pools are highly durable and engineered to resist cracking or blistering. When installed correctly and maintained well, they last for decades with minimal issues. We only use high-quality manufacturers and experienced crews to ensure this.
4. How long does it take to install a fiberglass pool?
Answer: Once all permits and materials are ready, installation typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on weather and site conditions. Lead times vary depending on our booking schedule and manufacturer delivery timelines.
5. What kind of maintenance does a fiberglass pool require?
Answer: Fiberglass pools are low-maintenance. The smooth gelcoat surface resists algae and doesn’t require resurfacing. You’ll need to maintain proper water chemistry, clean filters, and occasionally vacuum the pool.
6. Do I need a fence around my pool?
Answer: Yes. South Carolina law requires a safety barrier around pools. Aiken Pool & Patio offers several fencing options, including Ultra Aluminum, OnGuard Brand Aluminum, vinyl, and wood fencing, and we handle the permitting for you.
7. Can I see pool models and finishes in person?
Answer: Yes! We have physical samples and catalogs available at our design office. You can also view finish options, coping, and accessories, and we provide 3D renderings so you can visualize your pool before construction begins.
8. Do you handle permits and inspections?
Answer: Absolutely. We manage the entire permit process, including city/county approval, utility marking, and any required inspections throughout the build.
9. Can you work with sloped yards or difficult terrain?
Answer: Yes. Our team specializes in custom solutions, including retaining walls and elevation adjustments, to make pool installation possible even on steep or uneven lots.
10. Do you offer financing?
Answer: While we do not directly finance projects, we have partnered with third-party pool financing partners we trust. Many of our clients use low-interest home improvement loans from their banks.
11. Do fiberglass pools come with a warranty?
Answer: Yes. All of our fiberglass pool shells come with a 35 Year Structural warranty and a 15 year Surface warranty from the manufacturer. Equipment warranties range from 1 to 3 years, depending on the product and brand you choose.
12. Is salt water better than chlorine?
Answer: Saltwater systems are a popular option and come standard in our packages. They are gentler on skin and eyes, lower maintenance, and still produce chlorine naturally, just in a softer way. They are easy to use, and make swimming more enjoyable.
13. When is the best time to start the pool project?
Answer: We book installations year-round, but spring and early summer fill quickly. We recommend planning your pool at least 2–4 months in advance for best scheduling.
14. Are you a licensed contractor?
Answer: Yes, we are the pool department of Chattels In Design USA Ltd Co, LLC and they have all General Contactor Licensing, insurances, in place for authorized installation of fiberglass pools as well as any outdoor structures, including sunroom, pergolas, screen rooms, decks, outdoor kitchens, and anything to do with making your backyard an oasis.
15. Do you have a Designer on Staff?
Answer: Yes, we have a professional exterior designer on Staff who will layout and draw all your design drawings and show you what your pool will look like in your backyard before we begin the project.
16. What is the payment schedule?
Answer: We do require all of the materials paid upfront. A contract will be signed via Docusign. Then when the shell arrives from the manufacturer, and we schedule in installation, 90% of all labor charges will be paid. The final 10% of Labor will be paid at the end of the project when the installation has been completed. Your final walk-through with the Project Manager will be your sign-off that the work has been completed and the final 10% of labor will be submitted and paid in full.
17. What is the shipping charges?
Answer: As a Fiberglass pool is a large product for shipping. The transport charges can be up to $6,800. To make shipping more cost effective for our clients, we ask the Manufacturer to transport the pool with other pools coming here so the bulk shipment costs can be less. The average cost is $3350.00 in freight charges to the client.
18. Can I make changes to the design layout mid-way through the project?
Answer: Yes, some design features can be changed, but all "Change-Orders" are written out and signed by the client. There is a $100 fee to prepare a change-order, as the office team will be adding additional work to procuring any additional items. All Labor and Materials on your "Change-Order" form will need to be paid, 100% upfront before the change-order can be processed.
19. What is a plunge-pool?
Answer: A plunge pool is a smaller pool with a shallow depth of 3'-5 to 5', and on average, 8 feet wide and a range of length from 10 Feet to 16 Feet long. These are cheaper pools due to their small size, and the simpler installation required to have them installed. The plunge pools normally have plumbing, 1 light, and drains already installed at the factory, so this make them more of a "Plug & Play" situation. These pool can be completed in days instead of several weeks.
20. What is a swim spa?
Answer: A Swim-spa is great if you want exercise combined with the luxury of a hot tub. It has massage jets, built in filtration system, and does not need any additional equipment for set up. These can be installed in a day or 2 if the concrete pad is already completed. This sit above ground just as a hot tub would but are longer and allow the home owner to swim as well as relax in compact space.
