What is the Downside to Fiberglass Pools? 3 Myths & 3 Truths
If you are considering an inground pool, you will quickly realize that much information is available. You will likely first consider what type of pool is right for you as you compare the three different inground pool types. Looking for the pros and cons of fiberglass pools vs. concrete or vinyl liners can help you narrow down your preferred pool type. If you’ve already narrowed it down to fiberglass pools, you may even have Googled, “What is the downside to fiberglass pools?” or “How long do fiberglass pools last?” to see what results you may get. (Smart move). Though it may seem odd that a fiberglass pool manufacturer is addressing this question, it would be even more strange to pretend that a fiberglass pool is for everyone. Everyone should buy the best pool type for them, so this post will address some myths and truths about the downside to fiberglass pools. What are the perceived negatives of a fiberglass pool? Myth 1: Fiberglass pools are slippery. Between the clear water shimmering in the sun and the high-gloss finish of a fiberglass pool, it’s logical to think it’s slippery. However, over the years, technological advances have resulted in a gelcoat […]
Read MoreWhat Type of Pool is Easiest to Maintain?
What type of inground pool is the easiest to maintain? Is it concrete (gunite)? Or vinyl? Maybe it’s fiberglass? It’s an important question for the prospective pool owner. Maintenance is part of the budget and the pool lifestyle. The pool maintenance conversation is interesting in that the pool types that require the most maintenance require the most explanation. That’s not meant to scare you away from something you have your eye on, but to let you know what to expect when it comes to the time and financial resources you will pour into your pool once it is purchased. The variety of pool types exists for a reason. Each leverages different materials and technology toward specific purposes. Fiberglass is unique and manufactured in a controlled setting and then shipped as a unit to its site. Concrete can be very custom, is built on site, and can be quite expensive. Vinyl is also built on site, but it is relatively inexpensive to install. Let’s review the pluses and minuses of each pool type and then talk about where maintenance fits into the purchase decision for different buyers. For this conversation, we’ll assume you are an inground pool buyer. Above-ground pools are […]
Read MoreWhat Are the Main Problems with Fiberglass Pools?
While fiberglass pools are elegant, have loads of built-in features, are recognized in the industry as the lowest maintenance option available among pool types, and last a very long time, we understand why some may still ask, “what are the main problems with fiberglass pools?”. An inground pool is a significant investment of time and money, and potential pool buyers want to know if they will be happy they chose a fiberglass pool in the end—after all, no one wants to experience fiberglass pool regrets. We applaud you for looking into it. Searching for possible negative aspects will bring perspective and prepare you to be a more informed pool buyer because: It helps dispel common misperceptions of fiberglass pools. It clarifies the type of care and quality you should expect from manufacturers and installers. It sets realistic expectations for annual and ongoing maintenance. Let’s review common questions related to what people think are the main problems with fiberglass pools and weigh the validity of the concern. Is a fiberglass pool worth the money? This question often comes from perceptions based on dated or unlikely occurrences. The top three perceptions we hear are: A fiberglass pool is thin and flimsy and […]
Read MoreIs a Fiberglass Pool Right for Me?
An inground swimming pool is a significant, long-term investment, homeowners should weigh their options carefully and choose the type of pool that will fit their needs for as long as they own their home. We know it’s tempting to just go with the pool type you can get the soonest—resist the urge! Fiberglass pools are an inground pool option that is both worth the wait and fits a wide array of buyers’ lifestyles. You may have questions: Is a fiberglass pool worth the money? How long do fiberglass pools last? What is the downside of fiberglass pools? In this blog post, we’ll discuss fiberglass pools pros and cons. Fiberglass Pools Pros and Cons The Pros: Design Options. At one time, fiberglass pool design options were limited. Modern fiberglass pools come in various shapes, sizes, and colors that complement any backyard design. Go sleek and contemporary or free-flowing and laid back – there is a design and size for every situation. You can easily customize them with tilework that matches your personality and aesthetic. Built-in High-End Features. Fiberglass pool shell designs include some of the hottest trends in inground pools. Depending on your chosen model, many desirable and artful features […]
Read MoreHow Much Does a Small Inground Pool Cost?
Understanding how much a small inground pool costs is an important first step when planning for a pool in a compact backyard. Smaller pools offer a practical solution for limited spaces, delivering style, function, and enjoyment without the size or expense of a full-size pool. With the right approach, they can enhance your outdoor space while fitting your budget. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet retreat or a stylish entertaining spot, a small inground pool can transform even the smallest or simplest backyard into something extraordinary. Why Choose a Small Inground Pool? Small inground pools offer numerous benefits for homeowners with smaller yards, families, or those seeking an efficient and stylish pool solution. Thoughtful and creative designs enable these pools to maximize limited outdoor spaces while maintaining sophistication and practicality. Their streamlined size contributes to easier maintenance, reduced water and chemical use, and lower long-term ownership costs. Despite their compact dimensions, these pools do not compromise on features or visual appeal. With careful planning, a small inground pool can become a striking focal point of your backyard, providing a perfect balance of relaxation, recreation, and fitness opportunities. For example, flat-bottom models are particularly well-suited for activities like water aerobics or […]
Read MoreFiberglass Pool Reviews
When you begin the process of considering a backyard pool, your mind might swirl with questions. You may start with basic questions like, “how much do fiberglass pools cost?” Or, “is a concrete pool or fiberglass pool better?” You should look for reliable information and answers to your questions from people who have already taken the plunge. In this post, we’ll give answers to three common questions pool buyers ask and throw in some fiberglass pool reviews of our own. Are there many fiberglass pool designs to choose from? Yes! Over the last 30 years, fiberglass pool manufacturers have taken customers’ most loved inground pool features and designed them into the fiberglass pool shell. When comparing fiberglass vs vinyl pool cost or fiberglass vs concrete pool cost, you should factor in the features because many that are built into fiberglass pool designs may add to the cost of other pool types. Some features you’ll find in Thursday Pools designs include benches and seats, beach entries (aka zero entries) (Patent US 10,472,839), swim outs, built-in steps, tanning and safety ledges. We just finished the install of our Thursday Pools pool. We chose the 16×33 Goliath for its design to allow lap […]
Read MoreHow to Avoid Fiberglass Pool Installations Gone Wrong
When you’re considering a significant investment, such as a fiberglass pool, you may be wondering how to avoid potential problems with installation. With decades of experience in the swimming pool industry, we’ve pretty much seen it all. Many horror stories have stemmed from DIY installations. While our pool shells aren’t available for DIY installation, things can still go awry with professionals if the process isn’t handled with care and expertise. We want to help you be well-informed and proactive when selecting a dealer to help you avoid any regrets or horror stories associated with fiberglass pool installations. Here are six key ways to ensure your installation is successful and not a nightmare. Vet the Pool Installer Do your research and ensure the dealer has good reviews from other installations they’ve done. Ensure you and the dealer are on the same page regarding the process, budgeted costs, timeline, and resources required for your fiberglass pool installation. Set up a pre-construction meeting with the dealer to get off on the right foot. Discuss all potential issues and how the responsible parties will handle them during this meeting. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone meets the project’s expectations and outcomes. Ensure […]
Read MoreWhat is the Cost of Fiberglass Pools in Tennessee?
Tennessee’s humid summers make pools a welcome escape, while its mild winters offer a more extended swim season than many northern states to give you more bang for your buck. From the foothills of the Smokies near Knoxville to the musical heart of Nashville and the riverfront charm of Chattanooga, Tennessee offers a rich blend of landscapes and lifestyles—each impacting the fiberglass pool cost in Tennessee. Whether you live on a spacious rural lot outside Cookeville or in a suburban Memphis neighborhood, every property has factors that can affect your total investment. Clay-heavy soil in parts of Middle and Western Tennessee could complicate excavation. Sloping yards in hilly areas around Johnson City or the Cumberland Plateau might require extra grading work or innovative approaches to improve site accessibility. Understanding how each variable can influence your Tennessee fiberglass pool installation costs will help you create a backyard escape that fits your budget. What’s the Price Tag on a Fiberglass Pool in Tennessee? Survey Says… Thursday Pools conducted a 2025 survey of our independent dealers across Tennessee to gather key data on the average cost of installing a fiberglass pool in the state. If you’re just beginning to research […]
Read MoreHow Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Florida?
Packing up the wagon for a day at the beach is a quintessentially American tradition. For most Floridians, it’s not an everyday occurrence, even though it’s always there! Sometimes the beach is just too far or too much of a hassle. But what if swimming, sitting at the water’s edge, or splashing around with family was as easy as walking out the back door? For Florida homeowners, a pool has many benefits on top of being convenient. You can control the water temperature, the water clarity, the look and feel, and who gets to enjoy it with you. Fiberglass inground pools are becoming the preference for more and more pool dealers and homeowners across the United States, which may lead you to ask “how much does a fiberglass pool cost in Florida?” Are fiberglass pools good in Florida? Before considering costs, let’s look at the big picture and determine if fiberglass should be in the mix for you. Fiberglass pools rank high for their looks, ease of maintenance, resistance to pool pollutants like algae, lifetime maintenance costs, and an ever-expanding list of optional features. Why would you choose a fiberglass pool? It fares well in Florida. In much of Florida, […]
Read MoreWhat Are the Disadvantages of Fiberglass Pools?
We’ve been in your shoes before. You’ve decided to take the plunge and are looking at inground pools, and now you have to narrow down which type of inground swimming pool is best for you. You may have already compared vinyl vs fiberglass pools or the benefits of fiberglass over concrete pools and thought, “Wow, fiberglass sounds like a pretty solid choice!” But, now you want to know, “what are the disadvantages of fiberglass pools?” In this post, we’ll cover some potential downsides to aid in your pool decision journey. Durability and Potential Damage Let’s start with durability. How long do fiberglass swimming pools really last? You may have heard about typical repairs associated with certain inground pools—spider cracks, discoloration, etc.—and fiberglass pools, unfortunately, aren’t immune to these issues. For example, fiberglass pool gel coat problems can arise in the form of discoloration due to improper water chemistry and balance. That’s why we step up on our soapbox to stress the importance of pool maintenance. A fiberglass pool is one of the lowest maintenance inground pool types available, and proper care can ensure a significant decrease in your chances of damage. The life expectancy of a fiberglass pool can be […]
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