If you’re thinking about finding a fiberglass pool installer, one of your first questions will probably come down to size. It’s common for homeowners to ask us things like “how big of a pool is big enough?”, and “can the pool be too big?”

These are reasonable things to think about, and amount to big decisions that need to be made early in the process. If you haven’t had a fiberglass pool in the past, though, finding the right answers can be a little tricky. You can certainly look up guides online, or create a computer image of your back yard with a new pool, but that’s not the same as actually seeing one in your space.

With that in mind, I’ll start by saying there is simply no substitute for having a professional fiberglass pool installer give you a personalized survey at your home. That can give you the answers, dimensions, and recommendations you need. But if you aren’t that far along in your planning process yet, there are some general rules of thumb you can follow. 

Here are five things I’d tell you to keep in mind as you think about fiberglass pool sizes…

#1 Fiberglass Pool Sizes Aren’t Always What They Seem
You’ll often see fiberglass pool installers classify different models as small, medium, and large, which roughly equate to under 27 feet, up to 34 feet, and longer. However, those measurements can be a little bit deceptive.

For one thing, most fiberglass pools will have similar widths even as the lengths change. That’s because they are typically transported as single pieces, on the backs of trucks, which limits the sizes that are practical. So while a pool might get longer, it won’t be proportionally wider as sizes increase.

Another factor to consider is that you’re often looking at rectangular measurements – maximum length and width – for objects that aren’t going to feature straight edges. The curvature of your fiberglass pool can make it feel larger or smaller than what you have in mind when you see the overall dimensions.

#2 Pool Depth is Another Measurement to Consider
This is generally a smaller point, at least when it comes to fitting a pool into your back yard. Still, remember that a fiberglass pool has three major dimensions, not two. 

While homeowners generally pay a great deal of attention to length and width when they are planning, a shallow wading pool will feel much different than a deeper model even if they feature the same footprint. Additionally, a deeper fiberglass pool means more water, more maintenance, and of course different safety concerns for children, pets, and non-swimmers.

Keep that in mind as you consider sizing options. Better yet, see a few fiberglass pools for yourself to get a sense of what will work best for your property and family.

#3 Footprint Might Matter More Than Pool Size
The size of your fiberglass pool and the footprint needed can be two very different things. That’s because the actual pool itself might be quite tiny when you compare it to the surrounding decking, seating, grill area, etc.

This is one reason we always advise homeowners to think about a fiberglass pool as a bigger part of the patio they are trying to build, rather than a standalone element. It’s incredibly rare for a customer to ask us for a pool by itself; normally there are other pieces or structures that need to fit in. Considering those from the start can help you to keep the pool proportional while still managing the space you have available.

Depending on your plans and lifestyle, a fiberglass pool could be the biggest or smallest part of your patio renovation plan.

#4 Excavation and Installation Limits Matter, Too
In addition to decks, pavers, slides, and other pool-related upgrades, it’s necessary to mark off some room for excavation and equipment. You won’t need to save that space forever, but it will be crucial in the early stages.

This is probably the one area homeowners tend to overlook the most. They can envision a fiberglass pool on their property, and have no trouble imagining beautiful surroundings. But they forget that reaching that point will involve bringing in heavy equipment to get that job done. That requires access, clearances from buildings, and room to maneuver. It’s hard to dig out a pool area, and then remove excess fill, in a tight area.

Naturally, this is an area where a good fiberglass pool installer can help you to think through your options. But it helps to keep the logistics in mind from the start.  

#5 The Best Fiberglass Pool Size is About Uses, Not Dimensions
With all of this in mind, what’s the best size fiberglass pool for your property? In truth, it’s probably not the dimensions of your back yard that matter most. Instead, it’s the way you plan on using it.

A family that wants to swim or play games in their pool will have different needs than a retired couple who simply want to sit, wade, and cool down from time to time. Likewise, if the focus of your patio is on an outdoor kitchen then a small pool might be perfect even in a massive outdoor space. 

In the end, it’s all about you and what you want from your pool and patio. Talk it through with your fiberglass pool installer and they should be able to help you make the perfect choice.

Looking for a Reliable and Experienced Fiberglass Pool Installer Near Saugus, MA?
At Stefano’s Landscaping, we have 20+ years’ experience with patio renovations – including fiberglass pool installations – and the reviews from happy customers to prove it. We can handle large and small jobs, tackling everything from pool excavation to decks, outdoor kitchens, and so much more. 

Every project starts with a free, no-obligation visit at your home. So, if you’ve been wondering how a fiberglass pool might fit into your property and future plans this is your chance to get the answers you’ve been looking for. Contact us today so we can arrange a time to visit.