A sloping backyard can be a lovely thing. You might have an open outlook, an elevated deck, or a garden that unfolds over several levels. Finding a flat place for a swimming pool, however, can take a little more thought.

The same goes for a backyard behind the house with no obvious way to get a pool into it.

The good news is neither of these situations automatically rules out having a pool. Compass fibreglass pools can be installed in the ground, partially above ground, or fully above ground, using the appropriate installation and support system. The first step is finding out which approach suits your property.

What makes a site difficult for a swimming pool?

A difficult site might have a steep slope, narrow access, challenging ground conditions, or very little room for construction equipment. An existing house, deck, or retaining wall can also affect where the pool can go.

There are two questions to answer: how will the pool be brought into position, and how will it be supported once it's there?
 

A crane may help with the first part. Site preparation and the right structural design address the second. Looking into both of these issues early will help you to understand what's practical before becoming attached to a particular pool.

How is a fibreglass pool delivered and installed?

A fibreglass pool shell is manufactured before it arrives at your property. It's then transported to the site, then lifted into its prepared position.

With straightforward access, a truck-mounted crane (hiab) may be sufficient. Where access is restricted, a larger crane may be needed to lift the shell over a building or other obstacles.

It's an impressive moment to watch, but plenty happens beforehand. The installer needs to prepare the site and organise the lifting plan. Afterwards, the pool still needs its plumbing, equipment, surrounding works, and finishing.

The advantage is that the shell arrives already formed, and this removes the need to construct the pool shell itself in your backyard.

Can a fibreglass pool be installed on a slope?

Yes, with a suitable installation design.

On a sloping site, the uphill side of a pool might sit in the ground while the downhill side remains exposed. A standard inground shell cannot simply be left unsupported where it rises above ground level.

Compass's Maxi Rib system provides additional external structural support, allowing suitable pools to be installed partially or fully above ground.

That gives the installer more ways to work with the slope, rather than trying to turn the whole area into a flat section first.

Could an above-ground installation reduce excavation?

It can, depending on the property.

Installing a pool completely in the ground on a slope may involve substantial digging, retaining work, or creating a level area. Installing a self-supporting maxi-rib pool can reduce the need for those works.

That may mean less soil to remove and less reshaping of the garden. It can also make sense where getting excavation machinery into the backyard is difficult.

Above-ground installation still needs appropriate foundations and support. The aim is to find the most practical combination of ground works and structural works for your site.

Can the pool be level with an existing deck?

Yes, raising the pool can allow its edge and surrounding area to meet the level of an existing deck or outdoor living space.

On a hillside, that can create the striking effect of a pool extending out towards the view while the ground falls away beneath it.

It's also a very pleasant arrangement for everyday use. The pool feels connected to the house, with space nearby for towels, comfortable chairs, and lunch that nobody is in a hurry to finish.

The pool and deck need to be designed together, including their support, drainage, and safe access. A pool that appears to float over a slope still has a carefully planned structure beneath it.

Does an elevated pool have to be cantilevered?

No. An elevated pool is not necessarily a cantilevered pool.

"Cantilevered" describes a structure that projects beyond its supports. A pool can look as though it extends out over a hillside while being supported underneath.

Typical photographs often show the finished view, often with the supporting base concealed. Your installer and engineer can explain how a similar effect could be achieved on your property, if it's suitable.

How do you choose a pool shape for an awkward site?

Start with a site assessment from Compass Pools, then narrow down the pool options.

Compass offers different shapes, lengths, and widths. That gives your local dealer a range to consider alongside the slope, available space, installation access, and how you want to use the pool.

A narrower design might leave more room beside the house. A compact pool might fit comfortably alongside an entertaining area. On another property, an elevated installation could make a larger design practical.

Choosing from the range doesn't mean picking whichever shell can be squeezed in. You'll want room around it, a sensible place for equipment, and an outdoor area that works once construction is finished.

Does a difficult site make a pool more expensive?

Sometimes it can. Larger cranes, restricted access, challenging ground conditions, and additional structural work can increase the cost compared with a straightforward installation.

However, an above-ground or partially above-ground solution may reduce other expenses, such as extensive excavation or retaining work.

The useful comparison is between complete installation options for your property. Ask what each quote includes, what additional work is needed, and why the proposed approach suits the site.

Where should you start if your backyard looks too difficult?

Here, it's best to arrange a site assessment with your local Compass Pools dealer to know for sure.

Show them where you'd like the pool, how you use the outdoor space, and any access or slope concerns. Photos and plans can help begin the conversation, but an assessment is needed to establish what's possible.

A difficult backyard may require more planning. It may also offer the opportunity for something particularly lovely: a pool beside the deck, a view across the water, and a part of the garden you find yourself using far more often.

Has this information gotten you intrigued and excited? If so then be sure to talk to your local Compass Pools dealer about the installation options for your property. Some of our most dynamic and interesting jobs have come from installing pools into challenging sites!