Do you dream of a relaxation space at home without going through months of construction work?Shell poolsare one of the most popular solutions for individuals today. Practical, aesthetic, and durable, they combine ease of use and speed of installation.
Designed in the factory, thefiberglass shell poolis delivered in one piece and benefits fromquick installation, allowing you to enjoy your pool in a few days.
In this guide, discover everything you need to know about theconstruction of a shell pool: site preparation,pool delivery, coping installation and commissioning. Everything you need to complete your project with peace of mind!
In a nutshell:
- The polyester shell pool is a prefabricated pool that is quick to install and durable.
- It only takes a few days to install, compared to several months for a concrete pool.
- Made of fiberglass and resin, protected by a gel coat, it offers strength and ease of maintenance.
- The choice of manufacturer is essential: warranties, support, technical expertise, and follow-up.
What is a shell pool?
Theshell pool, sometimes called aone-piece pool, is a prefabricated basin manufactured in a factory and then delivered directly to your home to be installed in theexcavation pitprepared for this purpose. Unlike a concrete pool, which is built piece by piece on-site, it arrives already molded and ready to install. The result: a considerably reduced construction site and swimming possible in just a few days.
The most common model is thefiberglass shell pool, which is attractive due to its excellent value for money and robustness. It is composed of several technical elements:
- A structure made of fiberglass and polyester resin,
- A protective coating, the coat,
- Structural reinforcements to ensure its long-term solidity.
Thanks to this design, polyester shell pools offer a uniform, perfectly watertight basin that is easy to maintain and durable.
The polyester shell pool, a model with many advantages
Quick to set up
After the earthworks and preparation of thetrench bottom, the shell is delivered in one piece and then installed directly into the excavation.
In just a few days, thanks to a final implementation and simplified hydraulic connections, theswimming pool installation is complete and the pool is ready to be filled.
Proven durability
Made fromfiberglassand polyester resin, the hull is protected by a layer ofgel coatwhich ensures watertightness and preserves its shine. This trio of materials guarantees excellent resistance to shocks, ground movement, and climatic variations.
With regular maintenance and goodwater treatment, the pool retains its solidity and aesthetics in the long term.
Customizable aesthetics
Available in round, rectangular, oval, or freeform shapes,polyester shell poolsoffer a wide choice of sizes and colors.
You can then enhance the whole thing with installation of coping stones and landscaping around the pool, for a customized look that enhances your outdoor space.
Competitive pricing
The construction of a shell pool is often more affordable than a concrete pool, while offering comparable durability. Considering its quick installation, longevity, and low maintenance, it is a sustainable and profitable investment for your pool projects.
Shell pool: construction explained step by step
Theconstruction of a polyester shell swimming poolis not improvised: it follows a precise and rigorous process that guarantees the stability, watertightness, and durability of the pool. Here are the main steps:
1. Site survey and model selection
Everything begins with a site analysis carried out by a professional: soil type, sunlight, access for thedelivery of the pool, any technical constraints. This is also the time to define your project: shape, dimensions, depth, and shell options.
This choice is crucial to ensure that the pool fits perfectly around the basin and meets your aesthetic and practical expectations.
2. Earthworks and soil preparation
Thefoundation pitis then dug to the exact dimensions of the hull. The ground must be leveled and compacted to avoid any risk of movement or subsidence.
This preparatory stage determines the success of theswimming pool installation in the long term.
3. Setting up the gravel bed
A bed ofcrushed gravelis laid at the bottom of the excavation. This draining support plays an essential role: it stabilizes the shell, prevents water stagnation, and ensures a solid and homogeneous base.
4. Delivery and installation of the hull
The pool delivery is made by truck, sometimes with a crane to place the shell directly into the excavation.
The operation is quick but spectacular: in just a few minutes, the hull finds its final resting place in the ground.
5. Calibration and leveling
Once in place, the hull is wedged and aligned with millimeter precision.
This adjustment ensures that the pool is perfectly straight and stable, which is essential for good water circulation and the final appearance.
6. Hydraulic and electrical connections
Now is the time to connect essential equipment:
- Underground tanks, skimmers, and return jets
- Installation of the filtration system in the technical room,
- Hydraulic connectionsto ensure optimal water treatment,
- Electrical connections for lighting, heat pumps, or any other comfort equipment.
7. Backfilling and filling
The basin is gradually surrounded bycrushed gravel(backfilling) at the same time as it is filled with water. This dual operation balances the pressures exerted inside and outside the hull, thus avoiding any risk of deformation.
8. Installation of coping stones and finishing touches around the shell
Final step: theinstallation of the coping stones, which dress the edge of the pool and ensure an elegant finish. Then come the landscapingaround the pool: terrace, wooden deck, planting… These finishes transform your garden into a true relaxation area.
Installing a fiberglass pool: who should you entrust with your project?
A swimming pool project is a significant investment. To avoid unpleasant surprises, make sure you:
- Choose a reputable manufacturer with several years of experience.
- Check the ten-year warranty, a guarantee of long-term quality.
- Compare the services offered: advice, administrative support, follow-up after installation.
- Prefer a French pool manufacturer, such as Aboral, which controls the entire manufacturing andinstallation of shell pools.
The building a fiberglass pool is an ideal solution for those who want to quickly enjoy an attractive, durable, and easy-to-maintain pool. Thanks to swimming pool installation and proven long-term durability long term, the shell is an excellent compromise between comfort, budget, and peace of mind.
At Aboral, we assist each client from the design stage through to thefinal implementation. With over 30 years of experience and recognized expertise, we make yourswimming pool projectsa lasting reality.
Discover our models and request a personalized quote now to bring your shell pool project to life.
FAQ - What you need to know
→ How long does it take to install a shell pool?
On average, the entire installation process (excavation, installation, connections, and finishing touches) takes between 7 and 10 days.
→ When is the best time to install a fiberglass pool?
Spring is ideal for starting construction and enjoying swimming in the summer.
→ How long does a polyester shell pool last?
With proper maintenance and regular water treatment monitoring, a shell pool can last more than 30 years.
→ Do you need a building permit for a prefabricated pool?
A permit is only required for pools larger than 100 m². For smaller pools, a preliminary declaration of works is sufficient.
→ Why choose a French manufacturer like Aboral?
A French manufacturer guaranteescontrolled quality,local technical support and better traceability. Aboral Piscines manufactures its pools in France and supports its customers from design to commissioning.
