Fiberglass Pools Archives - Page 2 of 2

When Should You Open Your Pool

Posted on May 31, 2022April 3, 2024 by krista

When spring has sprung, most new fiberglass pool owners ask, “when should you open your pool?” Is April the best time to open the pool? Is it May? The answer can vary by geography and whether or not you have a heater. One thing is for sure, while that first dip of the season is worth waiting for, the waiting is the hardest part!

If you are in the waiting phase, you want to ensure you’re not waiting too long. You don’t want to miss a single day of swim season, so follow this guide and get prepped to open your pool.

GET PAST THE FREEZE

Your pool opening and closing schedule will vary based on where you live. If you want to be generally aware, tune into the rhythms of the farmers and gardeners in your area. The answer to the question, “when should you open your pool?” will mirror some of the answers to “when is planting season?” Getting in touch with a local dealer or professional pool cleaning service is a great way to get a sense of the best opening and closing times for your area. Get past that damaging freeze, and it’s safe to kick pool season into gear!

If you live in Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or almost any state above the Mason-Dixon line, you may see wild temperature fluctuations in March and April. You can apply another opening-day rule of thumb: if daytime temperatures are consistently above 70°, you can open. You might be surprised how early you can open. Opening the pool and circulating the water helps against pollen accumulation, and it gets backyard grilling season started in style!

So when should you open your pool? As soon as it’s possible to do so safely. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Remember having everything you need to do the job right within an arm’s reach will help the opening of your inground fiberglass pool go smoother. Gather these items:

Soft broom
Pool chemicals
Safety goggles
Chemical resistant gloves
Test strips
Garden hose
Cover cleaner or car wash soap
A good friend or pool service to help
Ice cold beverages to celebrate a job well done*

*Hey, you can’t forget to reward yourself! But that’s just the supplies, so don’t celebrate just yet. Here is what to do to open your inground fiberglass pool.

Check your water level. Even with your pool tightly covered, the water level can change over winter. Your water level needs to be mid-way up your skimmer before removing your pool cover. Groundwater levels are often highest in the spring (especially if you got a lot of snow in the winter). If you don’t keep your groundwater pressure equalized, you can damage an inground pool.

Remove your pool cover. After you’re sure your water level is correct, remove any water from the pool cover. Make sure you’re pushing or pumping that water away from your pool, not just adding to the pool-adjacent groundwater. If you’re using a pump to remove water from the top of the cover, be careful – some pumps are powerful.

A leaf blower can help get surface-level debris off the cover. The soft broom will come in handy during this step, allowing you to sweep away dead leaves and other debris collected through the winter months. After that, the process depends on which kind of pool cover you have.

Automatic pool covers. The virtues of automatic pool covers are many. They make pool openings easy. But, they are mechanized, so make sure you’re opening it gradually with your touchpad so it doesn’t get stuck or crooked as it opens.
Standard winter covers. Your winter cover needs to be adequately removed, cleaned, and sanitized to store away for your fall pool closing. Be sure to check with your cover’s manufacturer for removal instructions–each one is different. Removing it the wrong way can cause unwanted debris to fall into your water and contaminate it, making it more challenging to get your water healthfully balanced.
Check your equipment. Once the cover is off and your water is at the proper level and skimmed for debris, you can turn on and check your pool equipment. Pumps, filters, filter media, skimmer baskets, and lights sitting idle in the elements all winter might need tuning up or replacing. Here’s a Tip: check the pump housing near the O-ring for cracks. O-ring cracks can cause air to get sucked into your pump and if these are present,the time to find that out is now before the swimming season is in full swing. If you’re doing maintenance yourself, you may need some additional supplies such as thread seal tape and pool gasket lubricant in order to lubricate any O-rings. If you’re leaving your maintenance to the pros, most professional pool opening services will conduct a thorough check and alert you to any problem areas or necessary repairs. If all is working well, leave your pump on and let the water circulate for at least 12 hours.
Check your pool water chemistry. Once your water has had a chance to circulate, you’ll need to test it to determine your water balance starting point. Getting the balance right can be challenging at the start of the season. A pool professional can help get your water balanced after a long winter. They can also be a resource throughout the season. Someswimming pool professionals provide a free, computerized water analysis that tests for more water balance factors than a standard home test kit. Water chemistry is one of the more complex aspects of pool ownership. Whether you monitor it yourself or hire a pro, if you get your water correctly balanced when opening your pool, you’ll have an easier time keeping your water chemistry balanced throughout the swim season.
Give the pool a spring cleaning. Opening day is when to clean your pool before the swim season gets underway. Start by scrubbing the pool walls. The soft broom or sponge is best to use when cleaning your pool walls. Avoid abrasives such as sandpaper and steel wool that can damage the finish of your pool. After giving the walls a good cleaning, it’s time to vacuum. Start from the shallow end and work your way down the slope of the pool. Be sure to clean thoroughly around the steps and other crevices where debris can accumulate.
Inspect your safety equipment and pool accessories. Your handrails and lifesavers need to be swim-ready by the time you are. Take time in the spring to inspect, maintain or replace safety equipment, fiberglass pool accessories, and even outdoor furniture so you can be ready to relax poolside on opening day!

When should you open your pool? After you’ve followed these steps, of course! Hopefully, you feel prepared and can establish a good routine that will provide years of backyard enjoyment. Opening your pool is an excellent opportunity to reflect on what you’re grateful for and the fun times yet to be had. There has never been a better time to have a backyard paradise. If you’re looking for a bit of inspiration to make pool time enjoyable way past opening day, then you may want to check out our Idea Gallery.

What is the Downside to Fiberglass Pools? 3 Myths & 3 Truths

Posted on February 23, 2022January 23, 2025 by krista

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 finish for fiberglass pools that is smooth but non-skid. Fiberglass pools are comfortable on your feet (and your pet’s paws), will not snag your suit, and they aren’t slippery. But of course, anywhere there’s water can cause accidents to happen, so always be careful when entering and exiting or walking around any pool type.

Myth: Fiberglass pool designs are “slim pickins.”

Some people assume fiberglass pool designs are punched out like widgets because they are manufactured in a controlled environment and shipped to the site. Go back a few decades, and there indeed were fewer options. However, today, fiberglass pools come in an array of sizes, shapes, and colors. Fiberglass pool manufacturers like Thursday Pools are constantly innovating to provide new options and built-in features, such as beach entry pools (Patent US 10,472,839).

Myth 2: Fiberglass pool designs are “slim pickings.”

While fiberglass pools are manufactured from molds in a controlled environment and shipped to your site, there are many options. Go back a few decades, and that wasn’t the case. However, modern fiberglass pools come in an array of sizes, shapes, and colors. Thursday Pools is constantly innovating to provide new options and built-in features to our fiberglass pool shells and was first on the scene with beach entry fiberglass pools (Patent US 10,472,839).

Myth 3: Fiberglass is weak and brittle compared to other pool types.

Don’t be fooled by the name—fiberglass is not fragile. In reality, fiberglass is incredibly strong and flexible, making it highly resistant to cracking and wear. Fiberglass pools withstand shifts in soil and ground movement, making them durable in varied climates. A testament to their durability, fiberglass pools can last several decades when properly maintained.

What are the negatives of a fiberglass pool?

Truth 1: Fiberglass pools aren’t customizable in terms of size and shape.

Because they arrive on site in one piece, and the Department of Transportation limits what can be hauled down our roads without tighter regulations and a more extensive approval process, fiberglass pools are typically only 16 feet wide. So, fiberglass may not be for you if your pool must extend beyond 16 feet wide or 40 feet long. You also can’t get a fiberglass pool shaped like a guitar (unless a fiberglass pool manufacturer adds it to their design lineup).

Truth 2: The initial cost may be higher than other pool types.

It will likely cost more upfront to purchase a fiberglass pool than some other pool types. However, because you’ll save on maintenance and there is no liner to replace, the lifetime cost of a fiberglass pool is typically lower. So, if you need to spend less upfront, fiberglass may not be your best option. Check out our Pool Cost Calculator if you’d like a ballpark estimate for a fiberglass pool.

Truth 3: It’s not a DIY project.

A fiberglass pool is a lifetime purchase, but that’s only true if properly installed. A DIY installation voids the pool’s warranty. In any case, we wouldn’t recommend that the average homeowner, or even an above-average DIYer, attempt to install a fiberglass pool. That’s one reason we don’t sell directly to the general public. An experienced pool builder should install a fiberglass pool to prevent horror stories like the pool popping out of the ground or damage to the pool or house from trying to position the pool.

More Research Options

Check out YouTube, Pinterest, Houzz, and fiberglass pool reviews if you want more research options. Use our online resources, such as our “Everything You Need To Know About Fiberglass Pools” page. Or talk to an independent dealer. Consider what questions you might ask them in advance. Questions for a pool builder might include: Do they have a warranty? What type of pool is their specialty? What is their lead time, and what does their installation schedule look like? What pool shapes, sizes, and design options do they offer? What about financing?

There are advantages and disadvantages to fiberglass pools, so it’s essential to determine what you are looking for in your swimming pool to make the best decision for your and your family’s needs. Hopefully, this article has aided your decision, as fiberglass pool regrets are the last thing we’d want a pool buyer to experience.

What Type of Pool is Easiest to Maintain?

Posted on February 7, 2022July 30, 2024 by kristin

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 part of the pool market, of course, and they are incredibly inexpensive by comparison, but they typically do not last as long. In addition, the experience they offer is very different from an inground swimming pool. We’ll discuss concrete, vinyl-lined, and fiberglass inground pools, and we’ll order that discussion from most maintenance to least maintenance.

Concrete (Gunite) Pool Pros and Cons

Concrete pools allow for customization and creativity. They offer the most flexibility of all pools, allowing the buyer to choose the look, feel, shape, depth, size, and features. The concrete pool surface is typically rough, and as a result, can snag swimsuits and scrape kids’ feet and dogs’ paws. The cost can be higher, ranging from $50,000 to $120,000 and up. Concrete pool costs vary broadly based on customizations and region of the country.

Concrete pool maintenance is the most involved of the three types of inground pools. The surface’s porosity welcomes algae, and algae is tough to get at. It typically requires a weekly scraping with a steel brush to get in those nooks and crannies. To stem the algae problem, you’ll probably need a professional cleaning every three to five years for around $500. To protect the surface, you’ll also need to resurface it every 12 to 15 years for approximately $7,000 per 1,000 square feet.

Water chemistry is essential for all pools. It takes extra vigilance to ward off algae and salt, calcium and other minerals with concrete. This care generally requires filtering twice a day, therefore paying a little more in annual electrical costs. Most concrete pool owners will need or choose to hire a professional to open, close, or do a thorough cleaning each year, as well.

The average concrete pool owner can expect to perform around 4-8 hours of maintenance per week.

Vinyl Pool Pros and Cons

Vinyl pools also allow for a certain amount of creativity. Vinyl-lined pools can feature ledges, sitting benches, and the like. But the surface is slippery and not as conducive to these features as other types of pools. The soft vinyl surface is prone to ripping and punctures by everything from dog claws to sharp objects dropped in the pool to fallen tree limbs. Vinyl pools are relatively quick to install and, at around $25,000 to $65,000 on average, these pools are the least expensive of the three in upfront costs.

Vinyl-lined pool maintenance is not as extensive as concrete, and you certainly won’t be using a steel brush on its more delicate surface. Your level of care will depend in part on how much you use it and how proactive you are with regular maintenance. Its propensity to rip can result in the need for patching and or liner replacements. Liner replacements can be a $3,000 to $7,500 investment every five to seven years. If water chemistry isn’t carefully maintained, the liner may need to be replaced more often. The seams of a vinyl pool can also collect algae, keeping your regular chemistry costs about double to fiberglass. With a vinyl pool, you can save a little money by filtering one time per day and using fewer chemicals than you would with concrete, and you may not need to hire a professional as often as you might with a concrete pool.

The average vinyl-lined pool owner can expect to perform around 4-6 hours of maintenance per week.

Fiberglass Pool Pros and Cons

Fiberglass today provides the best of both worlds. Like a vinyl pool, it is quick to install—quicker in that it comes as an entirely manufactured shell ready to be dropped into an excavated backyard spot. While not as customizable as concrete pools, the breadth and creativity of the modern fiberglass pool far surpass the expectations of many first-time pool shoppers. The upfront cost of a fiberglass pool is usually a little more than vinyl and a little less than a comparable concrete pool, ranging from $45,000 to $85,000 on average.

Fiberglass pools are the most durable of the three. The attractive gel coat that seals the surface of the thick, multilayered fiberglass material resists fading and damage. There are no seams and pores to collect algae, so that alone saves on chemicals and quite a bit of time scrubbing.

Fiberglass pools require fewer chemicals and less filter circulation, even with cutting-edge features like tanning ledges. If a concrete pool can cost close to $700 annually for chemicals and around $600 for electricity related to the filtering, a fiberglass pool should run about a third of that cost. And, you do not need to acid wash the surface every three years as you would with concrete.

The average fiberglass pool owner can expect to perform around 1-2 hours of maintenance per week.

Long story short, the type of inground pool that is the easiest to maintain is clearly fiberglass. If you want an even more in-depth comparison of vinyl vs concrete vs fiberglass pools, check out our comparisons of inground pools.

How To Close An Inground Pool

Posted on September 23, 2021October 28, 2024 by krista

For some, it’s a season of denial, but when that first multi-hued leaf hits the water, it’s hard to ignore the reality that it’s fast becoming time to close the pool. If you’re in a temperate climate, you’ll want to winterize your pool to set yourself up for continued enjoyment when the weather is warmer. Whether closing an above-ground pool or an inground pool, many of the same principles apply. However, your regimen and costs may vary if you are closing a vinyl or gunite inground pool. For a more in-depth comparison of fiberglass vs vinyl vs gunite, download our free eBook. In this post, we will cover how to close an inground pool that is fiberglass.

STEPS TO AN INGROUND FIBERGLASS POOL CLOSING

1. Set a date. Get it on your calendar, and if you need to get on the schedule for pool service, it’s wise to make an appointment as early as possible before the time slots fill up.
2. Balance your water chemistry. Even if you’ve hired a pool service company, there are likely tasks you should perform in advance. One is making sure you’ve established proper water chemistry. That includes checking and balancing for alkalinity, pH, free chlorine, calcium hardness, salt, stabilizer, metals, and dissolved solids. Note: the “eyeball test” will not cut it. Water that is pristine in appearance can still be harmful or out of balance. That’s why we test. Keep in mind that balance also refers to the neutrality of the water, meaning you don’t want water that is too acidic (can cause corrosion) or too basic (can cause scaling/deposit buildup). Your Thursday Pools Owner’s Manual is a great resource for recommended water chemistry levels.
  NOTE: do not treat your fiberglass pool with calcium hypochlorite because the percent of free chlorine is so high that it can damage the pool surface.
3. Wipe down the scum line. Otherwise known as the “water line” or “tile line,” the “scum line” is a result of body oils, lotions, and environmental contaminants that float on the surface of pools and leave a mark that is usually harmless but doesn’t look good. This blemish could become a bigger problem if left unattended. Note: Be gentle. Use a light touch with a wiping cloth or brush – don’t scrape – to preserve the gel coat of your pool.
4. Clean. Give your pool a final skim, vacuum, clean the filter baskets, and backwash the filter before the pool service company arrives. (The General gave us a good primer on backwashing and the ins and outs of a sand filter)
5. Add winterizing chemicals. Add the final chemicals in your winterizing process the day before your service company arrives, allowing time for the chemicals to take effect before their arrival. If your water is properly balanced, no additional chlorine is necessary. With no swimmer use and cooler water temperatures, chlorine demand over the winter months remains very low.
6. Tidy up. We’ve talked mostly about chemicals up to this point. Organize and store those chemicals tightly and securely in a well-ventilated space, with special care not to place caustic chemicals too close to each other. In addition, tidy up your pool accessories, toys, and furniture. This could include pulling out ladders, diving boards, and other fixtures and checking them for wear and tear. If you have a secured or immovable element, like a slide, it’s a good idea to give it a protective wax that will set it up for continued use in the spring.
7. Cover it. We recommend automatic pool covers for safety, security, and pool hygiene. If you get an automatic pool cover, you will be pleased with its contribution to a quality pool closing.

FAQ. A lot of new customers ask, “Should I drain my inground pool for the winter?” The answer is absolutely not. You risk structural damage if you drain your pool of water. Professional pool installers take great care to reduce the abundance of hydrostatic pressure from groundwater, but it is always there, and water in the pool counterbalances that external pressure. Recent technological innovations can lessen the impact of groundwater.

If you must remove some water from your pool or if water is captured on top of your pool cover, drain it away from the deck, and be careful to leave water in the pool above the skimmer level. If you absolutely must drain the water completely from your pool, please consult with a professional. That can protect you against voiding your warranty.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CLOSE A POOL?

The cost of closing a pool will vary based on your area, but a national average is around $250. For reference, here are monthly cost estimates of pool chemicals:

pH increaser/decreaser $10/mo
Calcium hardness increaser $20/mo
Stabilizer (cyanuric acid) $25/mo
Sanitizer (chlorine) $40/mo
Shock $38/mo
Algaecide $15/mo

As previously mentioned, the costs will vary based on your geography, your commitment to regular maintenance, your vigilant use of a pool cover, and other factors. If you’re still pondering questions like “how much shock will I need for my pool?”, we have a guide that provides some size/cost ratios on the most used chemicals.

BOTTOM LINE

Winterizing or closing your pool for the season is part of a disciplined approach to pool ownership. The season, and a period of disuse, can have negative consequences for your pool. By keeping a regular maintenance schedule all year long and giving special attention to a proper seasonal closing, you can keep your inground fiberglass pool in good shape for many years to come.

Fiberglass Pool Maintenance

Posted on August 3, 2021May 24, 2024 by cargo

A pool is not a “set it and forget it” affair, so some basic knowledge of maintenance and cleaning is essential to its long-term enjoyment. And fiberglass pool maintenance isn’t as hard as you may think. In fact, it’s rather easy if you follow the instructions of your dealer and read the manuals that accompany your pool filter equipment, pool chemistry kit and vacuum. In this post, we’ll explore the basics of maintaining a fiberglass pool.

Your Fiberglass Pool: Much more than a shell holding water

First things first. Give yourself a pat on the back for having made the choice of fiberglass. Not only does it look great, but it’s going to be a little easier to vacuum and maintain a fiberglass pool. It’s not maintenance-free, but it is one of the lower-maintenance pool options. If you’re in a seasonal/temperate location, you might think of pool maintenance in terms of opening, closing, and ongoing maintenance. They’re all equally important to the enjoyment and long-term integrity of your pool.

The amount of fiberglass pool maintenance you do may ebb and flow with the seasons and use, but you can make that maintenance schedule predictable by being consistent and detailed in your approach. As a starting place, it’s good to familiarize yourself with the attached or connected components of your pool, understand the basic tools involved in the maintenance of your fiberglass pool and filtration system, know the pool chemistry, and learn the ins and outs of pool vacuuming.

The Equipment

Take a moment to know the location of these three items:

The Skimmer. This is the open “window” on your pool wall right about the water level. Your pool water will circulate (slowly, imperceptibly) toward the skimmer, and some of the larger surface particles will be removed before they have a chance to go to the bottom. A basket, usually accessible from a small cover on the deck, captures leaves and other floating items. It should be checked as a regular part of your fiberglass pool maintenance plan.
The Strainer Pot. The strainer pot can be found at the front of your pump. It’s also a basket system and protects the impeller and pump. The strainer pot collects debris picked up by the vacuum if you are using a common suction side vacuum.
The Filter. It’s what catches all the little stuff, like sand or tanning oil, that has moved past the skimmer basket or strainer pot. The filter should be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Also, make sure you have these tools in your fiberglass pool maintenance arsenal:

A Brush. Or brushes. One nice thing about fiberglass is its resistance to algae, but occasionally you might encounter debris of some sort on the pool wall. With the brush, you can usually just scrub it off with a quick stroke or two.
The Skimmer Net. This is different from the skimmer that’s in your pool. Here, we are talking about the telescoping pole with a semi-taut net on the end. This is for the manual removal of surface-level debris like leaves, bugs, and flower petals (or whatever else may have blown into the pool).
The Vacuum Head and Hose. This is the most common method for thorough cleaning/clearing of debris from the pool bottom and sides. The vacuum head has wheels, a connector for a telescoping pole, and a location to hook up to the suction hose.

A Word on Pool Chemistry

It’s important to note that proper pool chemistry will positively affect your fiberglass pool maintenance regimen. No matter how easy to maintain and environmentally friendly the pool is, a pool with water that is unbalanced is likely to create corrosion, scaling, or staining. Therefore, testing is essential. From simplest to most technical, testing usually comes in three flavors: (1) test strips, (2) liquid reagent kits, and (3) a digital water testing device. With these kits, you’ll be testing alkalinity, pH, and dissolved solids. The key regardless of which testing device you use, is getting to know your pool and getting to know the acceptable levels of alkalinity, pH, and dissolved solids.

How big is my pool?

When you’re adding chemicals to your pool, you will have to do a little math. It’s helpful to know the volume of water in your pool to get the balance right. If you don’t know, here is the equation to calculate: length x width x depth x 7.5 (7.5 is the number of gallons in a cubic foot).

Vacuuming the Pool

Ok. You have the equipment. You’re taking care of the water. Now, what about vacuuming? It’s relatively easy. Follow these simple steps:

Unlock and lift the skimmer basket out.
Connect the swiveling end of the hose to the vacuum head and connect the vacuum head to your telescoping pole.
Prime the unraveled hose by letting it out into the pool to fill it with water (pool pumps don’t like air).
Dunk the open end of the hose into the water to completely fill the hose and keep it primed. Navigate it through the skimmer window to the connector in the skimmer–a few feet away, accessible from the deck.

From there, just take care to keep the vacuum underwater. When it comes time to disconnect, follow the reverse order of operations, making sure to empty the hose of water and replace the skimmer basket. Lastly, you’ll want to check the strainer pot near your pump and filtration system for debris. This is where your vacuumed items are going. Shut off the pump and turn back the valves in this process.

We’ve discussed only “suction side” vacuums in this post. They are the most common, but not the only option. There are also “pressure side” vacuums–good for finer debris–which suck up debris into a bag or basket. And there are robotic vacuums that have their own motor and pump built-in. Robotic vacuums are more expensive, but they can be more efficient and will not require the use of the pool’s pump and suction equipment.

As always, we advise you to follow any and all manufacturer’s recommendations and ask your dealer if you have any questions about fiberglass pool maintenance.

What is a Beach Entry Fiberglass Pool, and is it Right for You?

Posted on July 28, 2020May 24, 2024 by krista

Grace. It can mean courteous goodwill and simple elegance or refinement of movement.

Meet our Grace. The Grace Beach Entry Fiberglass Pool (Patent US 10,472,839) gives you the feel of the beach and the simple elegance of a luxury, rectangle-shaped pool design.

HOW IS A BEACH ENTRY FIBERGLASS POOL DIFFERENT?

A beach entry, or zero-entry pool, is an inground swimming pool designed with an entry that has a very slight slope into the pool, providing you with a slow, gradual entry into the water. For every seven feet in distance, the pool can have no more than one foot in depth.

If you’re looking for a pool that is easy to get into, provides great space to dip your toes in the water, or swim a few laps in the pool, the Grace Beach Entry might just be the perfect fit for the beach lover in you.

Get an Estimate

FIBERGLASS POOLS ARE THE SOCIAL CENTERPIECE OF THE 2020s

Pools are now and will likely continue to be social hubs—a place where friends and family can gather to enjoy time together that turns into the fondest memories. Creating your beach atmosphere with the Grace Beach Entry fiberglass pool as the centerpiece is only limited by your imagination.

A word of caution: Inground fiberglass pools have been associated with extremely high levels of entertainment, joy, and fun. Check with your doctor to ensure that your heart can withstand the excitement that a new Thursday Pools Fiberglass Inground Pool can bring.

And surely your mother told you to wait 30 minutes after eating before you swim. That has never been a proven thing but listen to your mother.

FIND OUT ALL ABOUT GRACE BEACH ENTRY TO SEE IF IT’S FOR YOU

The Grace Beach Entry comes in three sizes.

Grace Beach Entry has enough room for all the beach lovers in your life. Let’s see how you can enjoy it.

1. Beach entry. The zero-entry transition brings the shore to your door. Want to tan without sitting in the water? The gentle slope itself makes a great tanning area or two ledge loungers fit nicely in the beach entry area while providing swimmers plenty of room to enter and exit the pool.

2. Wading area. Step a little further into the beach entry and you’ve got a wading area to cool off. Plus, it can double as a play area for smaller children.

3. Wide-open non-skid steps. The steps’ non-skid surface provides sure footing to exit and enter the pool. A young child that’s 4’5” in height will find the water comes up just to the neckline when standing at the bottom of the steps.

4. Extended Bench. The extended bench provides a nice area to relax and take a break from your water exercise routine or enjoy conversation with some friends.

5. Dual deep-end swim-outs. The Grace Beach Entry Fiberglass pool offers two deep-end swim-outs that can be used for exiting the pool or just chilling out. Your kids might find some other fun uses for them as well.

6. Wide-open swim or play area. Are you looking to stay in shape and ensure a long life? Grace Beach Entry provides plenty of space to get those laps in or enjoy some other fun sports.

7. Courtesy Ledge. The courtesy ledge extends around the entire deep end of the pool and provides places to stand and take a break from swimming.

8. Auto-cover ready. Like the Sandal, Grace Beach Entry fiberglass pool is auto-cover ready. Automatic pool safety covers are a fabulous choice for inground fiberglass pool owners. They ensure that no one can enter the pool without your knowledge, reduce time spent on pool maintenance, and lower your maintenance costs.

Ready to get an estimate or contact a dealer?

See for yourself what a beach entry fiberglass pool is by taking a 360 tour of the Grace Beach Entry fiberglass pool.

See where the water comes up to you from different areas of the pool.

Do you wonder where the water might hit you (or your family members) based on your height? Our wet tour will give you a sense of what it feels like as you enjoy every aspect of this artfully crafted pool.

How much does the Grace Beach Entry fiberglass inground pool cost?

Fiberglass inground pool prices will vary based on a variety of factors, including where you live and how accessible your yard is. You’ll need to contact a Thursday Pools dealer for an actual estimate, but you can usually plan on about $1500 per linear foot for most pools, including installation. However, for the beach entry designs, the cost will likely run you about 15 to 20 percent more. To get a more in-depth view of inground pool project costs, try our handy Pool Cost Calculator.

Are you ready to find a Thursday Pools dealer near you?

Thursday Pools fiberglass pools are available throughout the U.S., in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Ontario, Canada.

About Thursday Pools

Thursday Pools designs and manufactures fiberglass pool shells that are handcrafted with the highest standards and craftsmanship. Our one-piece, inground fiberglass swimming pool manufacturing facility is based out of Fortville, Indiana. At Thursday Pools, we aspire to be the world’s most respected fiberglass pool manufacturer. Our innovations, commitment to quality, and beautiful designs set us apart. Thursday Pools is known for its innovations within the fiberglass pool industry, such as the beach entry (or zero entry) fiberglass pool (Patent US 10,472,839), as well as the fiberglass sunken living room pool. Get inspired about a backyard swimming pool oasis of your own and get a free estimate on the fiberglass pool of your dreams today. Making that dream a reality is easier than you might think. Thursday Pools: your weekend starts early with us!

Swimming Pool Games for the Whole Family

Posted on April 9, 2020April 3, 2024 by kamron

Summer is nearly upon us and swim season will be in full swing before you know it. Wading into the water to play swimming pool games is a great way to spend your days with family, but sometimes even the most water-loving among us can start to get bored.

Well, we’re not going to let that happen. We’ve scoured the web (and our own backyards) for ideas to keep you and yours having fun all season long! Continue reading “Swimming Pool Games for the Whole Family”

Ask the General: What’s the Lowdown on Pool Cleaning Systems?

Posted on March 3, 2020April 3, 2024 by krista

A look at in-floor pool cleaning systems and robotic pool cleaners.

Dear General:

Is there such a thing as a “self-cleaning pool”? I’ve heard neighbors talking about in-floor pool cleaning systems, and they claim their pools “clean themselves.” Another one of my friends with a gunite pool has a robotic pool cleaner. I’m not sure I understand the difference between the two, or which is the best choice for us. We’re planning to get a fiberglass pool. Can you shed some light on this topic for me? I’m definitely interested in spending as little time cleaning and as much time swimming as I can.

Signed- Lazy in Lexington, Kentucky

Dear Lazy:

This is a great question. First of all, wanting to spend as much time as possible enjoying your inground pool instead of maintaining it isn’t lazy. It’s smart.

You’re taking a great first step by choosing a fiberglass pool. They’re by far the lowest maintenance pools around, and there’s no single, best choice for everyone when it comes to choosing a system. So, let’s take a closer look at robotic pool cleaners and in-floor pool cleaning systems, considering the merits and drawbacks of each.

What is a robotic pool cleaner?

A robotic pool cleaner is like a Roomba for your pool. You plug it in, drop it in the pool and it moves around, gobbling up dirt and debris. They’re certainly a great alternative to hauling out the telescoping poles and pumps of traditional pool vacuuming systems.

Here are some things you should know about robotic pool cleaners:

Get the right brushes for your pool type. Fiberglass pool owners and those who have tiled pool walls need to make sure they choose a model that has a soft, super grip PVA brush. If your pool is gunite all around, the rubber brush models will work just fine.
Get enough cable for the length of your inground pool. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you have to consider the fact that your power supply is most likely at least 12 feet from your pool’s edge. Your robotic cleaner will need to be able to easily reach to the deepest, farthest end of your pool to avoid having to unplug it and move it to the other end.
Get the right features for your pool type. The most basic robotic cleaners will just vacuum your pool’s floor. The top-of-the-line models have power-washing jets and can also scrub the walls and water line. They’ll be able to get into the nooks and crannies of built-in steps and other pool features. Also, look for a system that has high suction power (at least 70 gallons per minute) and the lowest micron value available (2 microns is great because lower micron values give you the best filtration).

What is an in-floor pool cleaning system?

In-floor pool cleaning systems are comprised of pop-up heads scattered throughout the pool floor, as well as on benches, steps and walls. They’re flush with the pool surface when they’re not in action, and they work in groups, popping up and spraying pressurized water that moves dirt and debris towards the main drain. The pop-up heads also rotate to get at the dirt from various angles. You’re able to set the speeds and length of activation times based on your pool pro’s recommendations and how much cleaning your pool needs.

Here are some things you should know about in-floor pool cleaning systems:

They must be installed with your pool. Because in-floor cleaning systems are integrated into your pool floor, they must be installed at the time your pool goes in.
They’re compatible with any inground pool type. Whether you’re planning to install a vinyl liner, gunite or fiberglass pool, in-floor pool cleaning systems will be compatible with your pool project. However, because gunite pools have a rougher surface, you’ll need a lot more pop-up heads than you would with a smoother pool surface like vinyl or fiberglass.
You’ll still have some maintenance to do. As the name “in-floor”implies, these systems are mainly just cleaning the bottom of your pool. This is great for warding off stains that can occur from debris sitting on the floor of your pool for too long, but you’ll still want to skim the pool for surface and floating debris.

Comparing robotic cleaners to in-floor pool cleaning systems

Cost. There’s a big cost difference between these two types of pool maintenance systems. Robotic cleaning systems start out around $400 and can go as high as a little over $1000. In-floor pool cleaning systems start out around $5000 and can go as high as $10,000, depending on the size and shape of your pool.
Automation. Robotic cleaners are not fully automatic. You’ll need to put them in the water, take them out of the water, move them around and clean them out. In-floor pool cleaning systems are fully automated. Regardless of which system you choose, you’ll still have to stick to your pool maintenance schedule, perform regular water testing and add chemicals.
Noise level. You’ll always know when your robotic cleaning system is running (they’re not exactly ninjas), while in-floor pool cleaning systems are, for the most part, silent.
Energy efficiency. If you run your robotic cleaning system longer than it needs to be run, you might end up using more energy than you would with an automated in-pool cleaning system that does its job and shuts itself off. In-floor pool cleaning systems also help circulate the pool water, which means it’s circulating heat at the same time, which can reduce your pool operating costs.

To sum it up

So, there’s my two cents on pool cleaning systems. No matter what type of pool cleaning system you choose, you’re going to love having a great quality fiberglass pool. With a pool design for every personality, you’ll have fun with friends and family and improve the resale value of your home. Happy swimming!

Until next time,

The General

Who is The General?

The man, the myth, the legend….we just call him The General. His organized, systematic approach to pool installations over the years had his crew members calling him “The General” and it stuck. The General has over 30 years’ experience in the pool and spa industry, working for one of Pool and Spa News’ “Top 50 Pool Builders.”

Over that time, he designed, sold, project-managed and installed over a thousand inground swimming pools. As a pool owner himself, he’s the perfect authority to give you the inside scoop, with amazing tips and tricks to make pool ownership a breeze!

Reap the Health Benefits of Exercise in Your New Fiberglass Pool

Posted on January 9, 2020October 24, 2024 by krista

Get healthy and have more fun this year in a new fiberglass pool.

If your goals for the new year include getting healthier and more fit, a new inground fiberglass pool might be just the thing to help you accomplish those goals. Water exercise has loads of health benefits, including weight loss, increased strength and muscle tone, joint pain relief, improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress, and increased fun (which is also very good for you!)

Choose a fiberglass pool that’s designed for water exercise—one that has wide-open swim lanes and is deep enough to accommodate both lap swimming and water aerobics. You’ll be crushing your health and fitness goals before you know it!

Let’s take a look at all the amazing health benefits of swimming exercise:

Weight loss.

According to Prevention magazine, swimming just 30 minutes can burn between 300-400 calories. Compare that to just 100 calories burned for 30 minutes of brisk walking, and it’s easy to see why swimming is a great choice for folks who want to lose weight. (Not to mention the fact that you’re in the pool cooling off instead of sweating during your workout!)

Increased strength and muscle tone.

According to Livestrong.com, swimming laps in an inground pool is a great full-body workout. Swimming works your back and shoulders, as well as major muscle groups in your legs and hips. It’s a great core workout as well, particularly when you’re swimming freestyle or doing the backstroke. And if you aren’t feeling like laps, even treading water helps build muscle and strength because the water offers resistance as you move through it. As you gain strength and endurance, you can add water exercises to get even more results.

Joint pain relief.

Aquatic therapy is an excellent pain management tool for anyone with arthritis, chronic joint pain their backs, knees, hips or necks, or anyone trying to rehabilitate from an injury. An article on PainScience.com suggests that even floating in a swimming pool provides joint pain relief because the water offers relief from gravity, allowing joints and muscles to feel cushioned and safe. Aqua-jogging and other water aerobics reduce inflammation and combine the benefits of reduced joint impact, muscle development and pain relief.

Improved cardiovascular health.

Studies have shown that swimming lowers blood pressure, which in turn, can reduce the chances of heart attacks and strokes. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), regular cardiovascular exercise, like swimming, also lowers “bad” cholesterol levels, which decreases heart attack risk.

Reduced stress.

Harvard Medical School’s online journal addresses how aerobic exercise reduces the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. Exercise also stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators, which means you’ll feel better physically and mentally.

Increased fun!

In addition to being a super healthy choice for you, swimming is just plain fun! There’s nothing like the feeling of splashing around in the water, spending quality time with your friends and family and letting the cares of the day fade away. There are tons of games you can play in the pool, and you’ll still get some exercise while you’re having fun! Plus, if you’re having fun while you’re exercising, you’re much more likely to keep doing it. That’s what you call a win-win.

Ready to wade on in?

If you’re ready to experience all the amazing health benefits of swimming in your own, private backyard oasis, it’s time to wade on in with a low-maintenance, inground fiberglass pool of your very own. After just a few months of exercising in your pool, you’ll feel better, look better and be happier! Fiberglass pools are an investment that pays off in every way.