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Category: Fiberglass Pools

What is the Cost of Fiberglass Pools in Tennessee?

Posted on by krista

Tennessee is temperate. Quite a bit of it is mountainous. And it’s really varied in topography and population centers. So, what type of pool is best for Tennessee? Options include gunite (concrete), vinyl liner, and fiberglass. As fiberglass experts, we can address just about any question on that topic, including how much does a fiberglass pool cost in Tennessee? 

First, let’s think about why you might consider a fiberglass pool in Tennessee by answering some key questions.

  • Does a pool add value to your home in Tennessee? Inground fiberglass pools have gained popularity and have become the choice for more and more Tennessee pool dealers and homeowners because they will add value to your home. Unlike gunite and vinyl that need resurfacing, fiberglass is durable for decades with no more than routine maintenance.
  • Are fiberglass pools low maintenance? Fiberglass pools require fewer chemicals, less annual maintenance, and are less prone to attract stubborn algae than gunite or vinyl liner pools.
  • Is Tennessee a good place to install a fiberglass pool? Tennessee soil tends to be heavy with clay. And it tends to shrink and swell with changes in temperature and groundwater levels. Fiberglass pools, especially those equipped with Geo-Anchoring technology, can handle this variability better than vinyl or gunite. 
  • What are a few other advantages of fiberglass pools? The modern fiberglass gel coats are visual knockouts. The rich color plays with the water and sun in a way that’s relaxing and inviting. Their non-skid surface is easy on swimsuits and feet, and they are the most pet-friendly pool type.

How much is a fiberglass inground pool installed? 

Let’s talk averages, and then we’ll provide a few specific examples. In the Sunbelt states, gunite pools have been popular historically because of lower installation costs and familiarity. As fiberglass technology has evolved and design choice has expanded, fiberglass has grown in popularity. 

The easiest way to pin down the cost of your pool is to contact a Thursday Pools dealer near you and ask for a quote. But if you’re not ready to do that, here is a good rule of thumb to get a ballpark estimate. Start with a figure of $1,500 per linear foot (using the length). So if you want to know how much a 12×24 inground pool costs, it looks like this: 1,500 x 24 = $36,000 (estimated). Let’s look at some of Thursday Pools’ top sellers for better reference.

 

Aspen

For wide-open swim space and lots of built-in spots for relaxing—the Aspen is hard to beat. It has a built-in 12”-deep tanning ledge, which provides the perfect perch to watch the kids while they swim. The Aspen is available in five sizes. The largest is 40 feet long by 16 feet wide. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation is estimated to be around $60,072. 

 

 

 

The Aspen is a crowd-pleaser. Check it out! 

 

Cathedral 

The Cathedral takes the rectangular-shaped backyard pool and elevates it with the simple, yet graceful curve of a Roman arch. With its classic good looks and wide-open swim space, the Cathedral invites you to entertain, relax and rejuvenate in style. The Cathedral is 14’ x 33’ 5”. At an average cost of $1,500/linear foot, the ballpark for a basic installation is around $50,250. 

 

 

 

 

Experience the Upscale, Traditional Design of Cathedral 

 

 

Sea Turtle

What creature fits almost any backyard space? The Sea Turtle might be the one! Despite its small footprint, the Sea Turtle is a standout with wraparound benches flanking the entry steps. It works as a great backyard getaway and landscape accent. The medium-depth Sea Turtle comes in one size, 9.5’ x 19.5’. It’s a great example of the fantastic small fiberglass pools available today. Using a ballpark of $1,500 per linear foot, this should come in around $30,000.  

 

 

 

 

What does a basic fiberglass pool installation include? 

Talk to your dealer on this one. The prices we’ve outlined here reflect basic installations, but they will vary. You might expect a basic installation to include site preparation, lighting, a 3 to 4-foot concrete patio around the pool, and a pool cover, for example. It’s good to ask your dealer upfront to be clear and plan. Your geography, local regulations, and other unique-to-your situation factors can influence the cost of installation. 

In Tennessee, there are several state laws on the books you’ll want to be aware of. One details fencing and gating. Your Tennessee-based dealers should know the specifics of the regulations and be able to provide you with appropriate options to keep you within the limits of the law. Another more recent law requires all residential or private swimming pools of more than 3-foot depth to have an alarm that detects anything more than 30 pounds entering the water. 

Dig a little deeper and get closer to your goal

Are you getting closer to making your backyard pool dream a reality? Do you have some of the specifics outlined in your head? Maybe you have seen a fiberglass pool shell being delivered down the street and your gut says, ‘the next one is mine.’ Or you’ve evaluated pool features and have a very specific question on inground pools with tanning ledge cost. If you’re digging into it in this way, Thursday Pools offers helpful tools like the Pool Selector Tool and Pool Cost Calculator.  

Or are you ready to find out more now? 

Get a free estimate on your fiberglass pool right now. It’s the best way to begin. You’ll get costs and can discuss financing options. Talking to a dealer well-versed in the particulars of Tennessee pool installation can save you time and money in the long run. 

 

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Florida?

Posted on by krista

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, the soil is a mix of sand and clay and is highly moisture-retentive. That means it can shrink and swell with changes in the weather and varying groundwater conditions. Fiberglass pools are better equipped to deal with the shrink and swell of hydrostatic pressure, and innovations like Thursday Pools’ Geo-Anchoring Pool System further enhance stability. 
  • It’s easy on the eyes and the feet. The gel coat finish on today’s fiberglass pools provides an incredibly inviting shimmer to the water’s surface and the smooth, non-skid finish is easy on your feet and your swimsuits. Most importantly, fiberglass pools are pet-friendly!
  • It’s the gift that keeps giving. Modern fiberglass pools are structurally sound and the surface doesn’t need to be regularly refinished or replaced. 
  • Selection. The variety of fiberglass pool shapes are increasing as fiberglass manufacturing is in a golden age of innovation. Where once a limited menu of sizes, shapes, and designs exist, there are now a great variety of choices for every yard and lifestyle. 
  • Options and accessories. Fiberglass pools offer homeowners many options like zero-entry pools (Patent US 10,472,839), tanning ledges, wrap-around benches, swim-outs, and more. Add-ons such as bubblers, fountain, wet decks, and spas make for a party waiting to happen.

How much does it cost to install a fiberglass pool in Florida?

The cost will vary by geography, local requirements, the amount of site prep required, the environmental and landscaping work, and the rehabilitation or clean-up after installation. You’ll want to scope it out with your dealer, but for a general ballpark estimate, you can use our Pool Cost Calculator.

What are your fiberglass pool options?

As we mentioned, fiberglass has come a long way and has many different shapes and sizes to offer. Let’s check out a few of our popular Thursday Pools pool designs. 

 

Sun Day Fiberglass Pool

Va va voom! The freeform design of the Sun Day is perfect for soaking up the Florida sun. It’s elegant. It’s organic. And it feels like it was built for relaxing in long stretches. The largest option for the Sun Day is 16’ x 39’ 6’.  

 

 

The Sun Day lights up any backyard. See how!

 

Aspen Fiberglass Pool

 

If you want the best of both worlds—both wide-open swim space and lots of built-in spots for relaxing—the Aspen is the pool for you. With a built-in, 12”-deep tanning ledge, you’ll have the perfect perch to watch over the kiddos while they swim. The Aspen is available in five sizes, the largest being 16′ x 40′. 

 

 

The Aspen is a crowd-pleaser. Check it out! 

 

Grace Beach Entry | Sandal Beach Entry Fiberglass Pool

Even if your Florida home isn’t on the beach, you can turn your home into an instant beachfront property with one of Thursday Pools’ fiberglass beach entry pool designs. There are two to choose from: The Sandal is a curvy, flirty freeform design, and the Grace is a classic, elegant rectangular design. Due to their complexity, beach entry designs may cost more than some other designs. The Grace beach entry is available in three sizes. The largest is 40 feet long by 16 feet wide. 

 

Grace embodies classic good looks. 

 

What does a basic fiberglass pool installation include? 

The definition of a basic installation can vary from one dealer to the next, so it’s a good idea to talk with yours in advance of breaking ground for your pool. The list of standards is usually driven by what the market demands but can be driven by dealer capabilities or preferences. 

Some items dealers may include as standard include: lighting, heaters, standard pool decking, and a pool cover. Of course, for most of these options, there is an opportunity to dial-up or dial down the complexity or features within. For example, you may choose a simple tie-down pool cover or upgrade to an automatic pool cover. Florida is a state with a fence requirement for residential pools, so your dealer will likely have some standard option or accommodation for handling this part of the installation. 

Does a pool add value to a home in Florida?

Swimming pools are popular in Florida, and according to Bankrate, they do add value. Thursday Pools has a fiberglass pool design for almost every family. Think about how you’ll use your pool, and choose a pool that fits your family’s personality. The Pool Selector Tool can help you narrow down a design, while our handy inground fiberglass Pool Cost Calculator can give you a better idea of how much your total pool project might be. For the most accurate estimate, contact a Thursday Pools independent dealer in your area.

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Georgia?

Posted on by krista

Who wouldn’t love the grace and warmth of the Peachtree State? A pool and backyard deck is perfect for entertaining, a great way to keep the kids busy and happy, and a welcome retreat from the bustle of modern life. And the sunny, laid-back vibe of Georgia is perfect for the backyard pool. Fiberglass pools come in sizes and shapes that match the Georgian lifestyles and complement your home’s architectural and landscape design. So, to explore the answer to “how much does a fiberglass pool cost in Georgia?,” let’s discuss pricing, supported by some specific pool examples and some tools you can use in the selection process to decide what’s suitable for your Georgia home. 

Is a fiberglass pool worth the money?

The rapid innovation in fiberglass pool design and manufacturing has made it the hottest pool type on the market. A few of the advantages of fiberglass pools when compared to vinyl-lined or gunite(concrete) include: 

  • They’re beautiful. The deep color of the fiberglass shell, accented by a tile border or your decking material, will sparkle in the Georgia sunlight. But does a pool add value to a home in Georgia? Yes! A fiberglass pool does add to your home’s value with its sturdiness and long-lasting beauty. 
  • It’s lower maintenance. A fiberglass pool requires maintenance, but it requires less maintenance than gunite or vinyl-lined pools. A fiberglass pool is less prone to attract algae than gunite or vinyl-lined pools. 
  • It’s built for Georgia’s red clay soil. Georgia’s red clay soil retains moisture and is slow to drain. As a result, it can shrink and swell during temperature swings and groundwater pressure will react accordingly. A high-quality fiberglass pool is equipped to withstand these changes by design and through innovations like the Geo-Anchoring Pool System.    

How much does a fiberglass inground pool cost in Georgia, on average? 

That’s a good approach. Each pool installation is different, so it’s helpful to look at some averages and examples. In the Sunbelt states, gunite pools have been popular historically because of lower installation costs. However, fiberglass pools have gained popularity nationwide and show no signs of slowing down. Dealers and owners love fiberglass pools for their durability, great looks and lower lifetime maintenance costs. 

How much does it cost to put in a fiberglass pool?

The easiest way to pin down the cost of your pool is to contact a Thursday Pools dealer near you and ask for a quote. However, if you are just ramping up your research and need some ballpark figures, a number a dealer might start with is $1,500 per linear foot. Now, let’s do some math with some Thursday Pools designs to illustrate for you how much a fiberglass pool costs in Georgia. 

Cathedral 

Cathedral takes the classic rectangular-shaped backyard pool and elevates it with the simple, graceful curve of a Roman arch. With its distinctive look and wide-open swim space, Cathedral invites you in to entertain, relax and rejuvenate. Cathedral is 14’ x 33’ 5”. At an average cost of $1,500/linear foot, the ballpark for a basic installation is $50,250. 

Experience the Upscale, Traditional Design of Cathedral 

Sun Day

Curvacious! The freeform design of the Sun Day is perfect for sun worshippers. It’s elegant and organic. It feels like it was built for relaxing in the long, hot Georgia summer days. The largest option for Sun Day is 16’ x 39’ 6’. At $1,500 per linear foot, this installation is estimated to cost $59,400. 

The Sun Day Brings a Smile to Your Face. See How. 

Sea Turtle

What creature fits your smaller or uniquely shaped outdoor space? Sea Turtle might be the one! Despite its small footprint, Sea Turtle stands out with wraparound benches flanking the entry steps. It works as a great backyard getaway and landscape accent. The medium-depth Sea Turtle comes in one size, 9.5’ x 19.5’. Using a ballpark of $1,500 per linear foot, this estimates to be about $30,000.  

What does basic fiberglass pool installation include? 

Certain things may be assumed to be included in a basic installation. In some regions, an automatic pool cover may be considered essential and part of any estimate. In some regions, there may be geographic or topographic considerations that play into every estimate. And, frequently, there are municipal or state codes that require certain safety accommodations like fencing at every pool. 

If you’re looking into the question of “how much does a fiberglass pool cost in Georgia?,” you want to make sure you’re talking about your part of Georgia—your town, your neighborhood, your dealer. So it’s always best to talk to a fiberglass pool dealer near you to know what’s included and what’s not included. 

Speaking of what is or isn’t included, Georgia regulations require a barrier fence at least four feet tall with no openings greater than four inches. Fencing is one example of costs that might not immediately come to mind when estimating the installation of a pool. It makes sense to do your homework and suss out all the factors.

Getting Your Pad of Paper and Pencil Out

As you do your own research, you can get a sense of which way you want to go based on your backyard size and shape, your budget, your lifestyle and how you intend to enjoy your pool. A few tools you can use include our inground pool cost estimator, the Pool Cost Calculator. And you can further narrow your selection with the Pool Selector Tool. In just a few minutes of use, you can get a sense of where your wants and needs match up with different pool designs and sizes. Thursday Pools offers the best fiberglass pools for homeowners in Atlanta and its surrounding counties.

Are you ready? 

Get a free estimate on your fiberglass pool. It’s ultimately the best way to find out the cost and financing options on your dream pool. Talking to someone well-versed in all aspects of pool installation in your corner of Georgia can save you time and money in the long run. 

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Utah?

Posted on by krista

Utah’s motto is “industry.” When survival was challenging the state’s pioneers, it took the industry to tame Utah’s wilderness. The times in Utah may not be as tough today, but industry can still yield great things – a backyard inground pool. So, how much does a fiberglass pool cost in Utah?   

First, it’s helpful to know the viability of a fiberglass pool and a few of the particulars of the region. Depending on where you’re located in the Beehive state, you may have a pool season that stretches five months or more. Just how long depends on your proximity to the mountains or the desert or the Great Salt Lake. The bottom line is, you can absolutely install an inground fiberglass pool in Utah.  

What is the best type of pool to get in Utah?

As you shop for a pool in Utah, you’ll probably discover there are different types of pools. You probably knew this, but if you’re not shopping, it’s likely something you hadn’t given much thought. We think it’s useful to compare the options and consider the factors that make a fiberglass pool a great value versus gunite(concrete) and vinyl pools. Here are just a few great features of fiberglass pools:

  • Maintenance. Fiberglass pools are easy to own and maintain. The sandstone-based soil of much of Utah can shrink and swell with varying conditions. An inground fiberglass pool, equipped with the Geo-Anchoring system, can deal with that variability.
  • Toughness. Fiberglass pools degrade less than gunite and vinyl. The smooth gel coat surface that is easy on swimsuits and tender feet is also tough enough to tolerate the claws of a dog-paddling black Lab.
  • Designed. Fiberglass pools design features built-in! These can include tanning ledges, wrap-around benches, and even beach entries—all usually built around a wide-open swimming space!

How much does it cost to put in a pool in Utah? 

If Utahans are indeed industrious, the features within the value proposition of a fiberglass pool are appealing. So what about the bottom line cost? It will depend on your neighborhood, topography and a host of other factors, but we can estimate based on our broad experience in western and mountain states that an inground fiberglass pool would come in at between $1,600-$1,800 per linear foot. If that doesn’t give you a clear enough picture, check out the following Thursday Pools designs and their average cost to install.

 

Goliath

The Goliath serves up extra space if you’ve got a big family (or lots of neighbors and friends visiting). Add a slide. Or a basketball goal. It’s an excellent pool for game time and creates a fun backyard atmosphere. The smallest size is 33.6 feet long by 16 feet wide. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation might run around $50,400.

 

 

 

 

Lil Bob

Our Lil Bob fiberglass pool design might be just the ticket if space is limited and your family is very active. The Lil Bob is 27.5 feet long by 13.5 feet wide. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $41,250.

 

 

 

 

 

Cathedral

The Cathedral is a timeless classic with stylish curves. It’s a great combination of wide-open swim space and gracious seating areas. The Cathedral comes in at 14 feet wide by 33.5 feet long. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $50,250.

 

 

 

 

Are there any hidden costs in pool installation? 

As we always stress, every installation is different. Utah state law requires a barrier fence that’s at least six feet tall with no openings greater than four inches. A fence may be something you want anyway, but the example illustrates the point that variability exists. Seven examples of potential hidden costs, detailed more thoroughly in this blog, include:

  1. Site Preparation – roots, rocks/stones, irrigation systems, and utilities are just a few of the considerations. 
  2. Access – pool installers have trucks, earthmovers, and cranes, and they need access to your backyard.
  3. Permits – municipalities have different permitting and construction site requirements. It’s important to know yours. 
  4. Fencing – as we mentioned above, fencing and pool safety covers may be a nice-to-have, or they may be a must-have, per state ordinance. 
  5. Restoration – pool installation is a big construction project, and sometimes that means significant clean-up and restoration. 
  6. Electrical – is your backyard wired? Is your pool installer estimating and doing the work themselves or through a subcontractor? 
  7. Dirt Hauling – to drop that backyard pool in there, you might be removing the equivalent of a one or two-car garage volume of dirt! 

This is a good list to keep handy. Always keep an open line of communication with your dealer so you both are clear on the scope of your installation and the final cost. One thing to note: some work, like restoration or fencing, could be performed as a separate project with its own financing. Creativity in putting together a cost plan can get your pool plan together more quickly with less immediate strain on the pocketbook. 

Can you have a pool in Utah?

As you can see, Thursday Pools has pool designs to fit a wide range of Utahn budgets. And we’ve got the know-how to work with you and your dealer to find the pool that fits your budget, your yard size, and your family’s personality.

Pool Cost Calculator

 

Are you ready to soak in the sun in your new Thursday Pool? You can get a free estimate by answering just a few questions, or contacting your local Thursday Pools dealer for more information. 

How To Close An Inground Pool

Posted on 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) $15/mo
  • Sanitizer (chlorine) $20/mo
  • Shock $80/mo
  • Algaecide $12/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 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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).
  3. 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:

  1. Unlock and lift the skimmer basket out.
  2. Connect the swiveling end of the hose to the vacuum head and connect the vacuum head to your telescoping pole.
  3. Prime the unraveled hose by letting it out into the pool to fill it with water (pool pumps don’t like air).
  4. 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 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 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”

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in North Carolina?

Posted on by krista

Do you want a pool if you live along the coastline of North Carolina (or one of its many inlets and rivers)? It may seem counterintuitive, but many of the same conditions that make the North Carolina coast so attractive for beach and water activity are the same conditions that make it perfect for a backyard pool. So, how much does a fiberglass pool cost in North Carolina? It’s a question worth exploring when you think about how nice it would be to have your own personal corner of paradise in your North Carolina backyard. 

Thursday Pools fiberglass pools offer North Carolinians the opportunity to enjoy a lifetime of low maintenance and quality family time. Whether you’re looking for an entertainment area, relaxing oasis, or backyard playspace, an inground fiberglass pool is a perfect complement to a beautiful backyard. 

 

Are fiberglass pools good in North Carolina? 

  • Consider home values. Does a pool add value to a home in North Carolina? Absolutely! A pool adds beauty and elegance to the backyard that no other home addition can. And more so than vinyl-liner pools, a fiberglass pool can actually increase your home value. 
  • Works in Carolina’s unique topography. North Carolina’s soil is a combination of sand and clay and retains moisture, meaning it can shrink and expand with varying weather conditions. A Thursday Pools innovation, the Geo-Anchoring Pool System, was designed for conditions exactly like those in North Carolina.  
  • Health and fitness are at arm’s reach. There’s no need to go to the gym. Swimming and water activities are great for physical fitness. When you own a pool, you own a health and wellness spa in your backyard.
  • It’s great for pets. Fiberglass pools are pet-friendly with a smooth, non-skid finish that doesn’t catch on swimsuits, is kind to your pup’s paws, and can withstand their nails. 

 

What is the average cost to put in a fiberglass pool? 

Prices of fiberglass pools vary by region. In North Carolina, as in many southern states, fiberglass pools continue to gain popularity due to their durability and lower cost of lifetime maintenance and repair. They are winning over homeowners and the dealers who serve them. A figure we often use to ballpark fiberglass pool costs is $1,500 per linear foot. To get a sense of the average price, let’s look at some of our pools of different sizes and shapes.

 

Ballpark figures for inground pool cost in North Carolina 

Lil Bob

Lil Bob is a popular flat-bottomed design, perfect for backyard activity. The full-length steps and long benches provide easy access and plenty of space for watching all the action. Lil Bob is 27.5 feet long. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation comes in at $41,250. 

 

Cathedral LX

The Cathedral LX treats you like royalty. It has a classic design that incorporates luxurious rounded ends and a gorgeous tanning ledge on a Roman-style pool. The largest version of the Cathedral LX is just over 40 feet in length. At $1,500 per linear foot, a ballpark figure is $60,000. 

 

Grace Beach Entry

Voila! You can have beachfront property by installing the Sandal or Grace in your backyard (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). These two zero-entry fiberglass pools average slightly more at $1,800 per linear foot. Grace is available in three sizes, with the largest option being  40 feet in length. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1,800 per linear foot, the basic installation would be $72,000.  


 

Are there additional costs associated with fiberglass inground pool prices? 

In addition to the basic installation of any inground pool, you’ll want to make sure you and your installer have considered costs associated with permitting, site preparation, electrical work, dirt hauling and yard restoration. In addition, in North Carolina, you’ll need to consider fencing. A state requirement is the erection of a barrier fence at least four feet tall with specific guidelines on how wide openings can be and how latches work. 

 

Sharpening Your Pencil

You may now be wondering, “how much should I budget for a swimming pool?” While we’ve provided some rough figures for estimating the cost of a pool, there are site factors and options to choose that can ratchet your cost up or down depending on which you choose. We offer some useful tools to refine your estimating, including our inground pool cost estimator, the  Pool Cost Calculator and Pool Selector Tool. 

 

Ready to take the plunge? 

It’s always best to talk to someone with pool building experience and knowledge who is also well-versed in all things North Carolina. Get a free estimate for your fiberglass pool through our network of dealers and you’re on your way! 

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

Posted on 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 inground fiberglass poolsmaintaining 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!