Fiberglass Pools Archives - Page 3 of 3

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!

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Texas?

Posted on February 6, 2020March 28, 2024 by krista

Thursday Pools fiberglass pools are an affordable, durable and elegant choice for any backyard in San Antonio, Dallas/Fort Worth, or the surrounding communities in Texas.

If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, there are loads of things to do and places to see. You might spend an afternoon taking in art at the Dallas Museum of Art or the Nasher Sculpture Center. You could choose to soak up nature at the stunning Dallas Arboretum for a day. You might take a trip to San Antonio for the weekend and enjoy the amazing shops and restaurants along the Riverwalk. Or, you might find yourself looking for something to do around the house. Like looking at fiberglass pool cost and how fitting a fiberglass pool would be for your backyard.

Sometimes it’s nice to just stay home and enjoy your own backyard? (Especially when the summer heat and humidity sets in!) Wouldn’t it be amazing to have a staycation with your own beautiful fiberglass inground pool? You can create your own, private backyard oasis by choosing a Thursday Pools fiberglass pool for your family. You’ll get a lifetime of low pool maintenance enjoyment and quality family time.

Why choose a fiberglass pool?

Fiberglass pools are highly compatible with Texas’ clay soil. The clay soil in Texas soaks up moisture slowly, but has a very high moisture capacity. This means it’s prone to shrinking and swelling. That pressure can be hard on gunite (concrete) or vinyl pools. The best quality fiberglass pools are better equipped to deal with shrink-swell pressure, particularly when coupled with innovations like the Geo-Anchoring Pool system.
Fiberglass pools are easier and less expensive to maintain than vinyl or gunite. The crevices in vinyl pool liners and the rough surfaces of gunite pools are havens for algae, which means more time spent on maintenance and more money spent on chemicals. However, the smooth, gel coat surface of a fiberglass pool holds bacteria and algae at bay, which means more time swimming and less time maintaining as well as lower chemical use over the life of your pool.
Fiberglass pools are more durable than vinyl or gunite. There are no liners to replace, and they never need resurfacing. They’re quick to install, and the smooth, non-skid finish is safe and easy on swimsuits and tender feet. And, if you want to share your pool with the four-legged members of your family, the gel coat finish means they’re also way more pet-friendly than either vinyl or gunite pools.

What’s the average price of a fiberglass pool, installed?

Fiberglass pool prices vary based on the size of pool you want and where you live. You’ll need to contact a Thursday Pools dealer near you to get a quote on your fiberglass pool project. But if you’re just getting started on your research and want a ballpark price for your own fiberglass pool, you can approximate $1500 per linear foot.

Let’s take a look at how that ballpark formula might apply to some Thursday Pools designs.

Sun Day

If you’re after the graceful curves of a freeform pool, our Sun Day design might be the perfect complement to your backyard. It’s available in three sizes with a maximum length of 39’. The smallest size is 30 feet long by 15 feet wide. At an average cost of $1500 per linear foot, a basic installation might run around $45,060.

Aspen

If you have a large yard and truly want the best of both worlds—both wide-open swim space and lots of built-in spots for relaxing—Aspen is the pool for you. With a built-in, 12-inch deep tanning ledge, you’ll have the perfect perch to sunbathe or watch over the kids while they swim. The Aspen is available in three sizes. Let’s check out the largest, which is 40 feet long by 16 feet wide. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $60,072.

What about a beach entry?

You can turn your Texas home into instant beachfront property with one of Thursday Pools’ beach entry fiberglass pool designs (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). They’re the only truly zero entry fiberglass pools on the market. There are two to choose from: Sandal is a curvy, flirty freeform design, and Grace is a classic rectangular design. Beach entry designs will average $1800 per linear foot.

Since we like to “go big or go home” in Texas, let’s take a look at what the largest size of the Grace design might cost. It’s 40 feet long by 16 feet wide. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1800 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $72,000.

What does a basic fiberglass pool installation include?

The definition of a basic installation varies from one pool builder to the next. So it’s crucial to inquire about what’s included (and more importantly, what’s not) as you’re collecting bids on your new fiberglass pool. This will help ensure you’re comparing apples to apples.

For example, some pool builders include as standard: lighting, heaters, a set amount of pool decking, and even an automatic pool cover in all their quotes. Others will price these items ala carte. Additionally, there are costs involved in pool installation that may or may not apply to your project, depending on where you live and how accessible your backyard is. You’ll want to inquire about these costs as you’re interviewing prospective builders.

Potentially hidden costs of installing an inground fiberglass pool.

Site Preparation. Site preparation refers to anything that would get in the way of setting the pool in the ground. For example, the removal and/or relocation of under and above-ground utility lines or cables such as gas, phone, sewer and septic would fall under site preparation, as would moving irrigation systems and downspouts. And once your pool builder starts to dig, any underground “surprises,” such as a layer of rock no one expected to find, could add to your bottom line pricing. If additional equipment needs to be rented, or the excavation ends up taking several days longer than expected, that expense may well be listed by your pool builder as “additional site preparation”, a cost they will pass onto you. You should ask your pool builder to clarify what factors involved in your pool installation project could potentially cause site preparation issues.
Access. Your new inground fiberglass pool will be delivered in one piece, which means your pool builder needs clear access to your yard for the pool and necessary construction equipment. Access issues could include trees, brush, or fencing that might need to be moved or removed prior to installation. Your pool builder might also need to build a “temporary driveway” with gravel or protection mats to gain needed access. These costs could also end up on your total bill, so be sure to ask each pool builder to include in the bid what accessibility issues might need to be addressed on your project.
Permits. As with any other building project, permits are required prior to installing an inground swimming pool. Some builders take on that task for you and include the cost in the contract, but some don’t. So during the project’s estimation phase, be sure to ask if they’re taking care of procuring and paying for the permits or if that’s on you. If you’re responsible for obtaining the pool permit, call your local municipality for pool permit prices. There may also be other costs involved, depending on your local ordinances. For example, you may also be required to put up a temporary fence during construction or implement erosion control measures.
Restoration. Heavy construction equipment can cause sidewalks and driveways to crack. Unless otherwise stated in the pool contract, the repairs of your existing driveway and/or the removal of any temporary driveway installed for accessibility to the site will be your responsibility. You’ll also want to think about new and existing landscaping after the project is complete. A “rough grade” is typically part of your pool contract but a “finish grade” is not, and a finish grade is what you need to seed or sod your lawn. You might also need to add top soil. Large landscaping and hardscaping designs can often cost as much as the pool, so it’s important to have a complete plan and estimated costs ahead of time. Remember, not everything has to be done at once. You can start enjoying your pool right away and add on to your landscaping over the years.
Electrical. An electrician will have to run the wiring for the pool equipment and lights. Few pool builders include electrical in their quotes because they don’t typically have an electrician on their team. If you already know an electrician you trust, you might prefer him or her to do the work to the pool builder’s specs. Your current electrical system may or may not have enough power or space in the breaker box to meet the needs of the pool equipment, so you may need to add a sub-panel or upgrade your electrical system.
Dirt Hauling. When you dig that big hole, you have to put all that dirt somewhere. If you don’t have a spot for it (or don’t know someone who wants it), then you’ll have to pay someone to haul it away. The cost of this will be determined by how many truckloads of dirt there are and how far away the dump site is. Your pool contract might specify that only a certain amount of dirt will be hauled away, or it may say that dirt hauling is your responsibility. Unless you have a plan for the dirt, be sure to read your contract closely and ask your pool builder how much dirt will result from the excavation as well as how much of it is up to you to remove.

Texas swimming pool regulations.

Some states, like Alabama, leave swimming pool regulations up to individual counties. The same is true for South Carolina. However, in Texas, state-wide laws apply to residential inground pools.

Here’s what you should know:

A barrier fence at least 48 inches high is required around the pool, with self-latching gates. It cannot be made of chain link, and cannot have any gaps or openings larger than 4 inches.
The supporting crossbars on wooden fences must be on the interior of the fence to keep anyone from climbing the fence into the pool area.
If the wall of your house serves as one of the four barrier walls, you must have:
- Alarms on any doors or windows with direct access to the pool area and deactivation switches at least 54 inches above the threshold of the door. These doors must also be equipped with deadbolts.

Fencing, alarms, automatic pool covers and other barriers-to-entry are not usually part of your pool contract, so it’s a good idea to get fencing estimates ahead of your pool estimates. (Or, check to see if your existing fence meets the requirements.) Your pool builder will be able to advise you on these matters.

Enjoy the benefits of the fiberglass pool lifestyle.

Fiberglass pools create a spot for legendary parties. Texans are known for entertaining and looking for new ways to make a splash. Recently, the world’s first and only fiberglass pools with beach entries (zero entries) and sunken living areas were introduced on the market. So, if you’re a trendsetter who loves to throw a party, you could be among the first to have one of these innovative and unique fiberglass pool designs. Your pool parties will be the talk of the town!

You’ll get the best of both worlds. Fiberglass pools have loads of built-in features like tanning ledges, wrap-around benches and swim-outs that make it so easy to visit and relax. But most fiberglass pool designs also have wonderful, wide-open swim lanes. So, if you’re looking to include swimming exercise in your workout routine, a fiberglass pool with open swim lanes can help you accomplish that goal. Once you’ve experienced the fiberglass pool lifestyle and all the health benefits of swimming, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one.

Thursday Pools has a fiberglass pool design for every family and every budget.

No matter what part of the Lone Star state you live in, whether it’s San Antonio, Austin, Houston or up in Dallas/Fort Worth, there’s a Thursday Pools design that will fit right in to your backyard’s style.

Thursday Pools fiberglass pool designs come in a great variety of shapes and sizes. You’ll want to consider how much pool your yard will fit (and how much pool you really need and want). You should also think about how you’ll use your pool, and choose a pool that fits your family’s personality. As you get further along in your research, check out our handy Pool Cost Calculator and Pool Selector Tool to get a better idea of how much your total pool project might be. (But the only way to know for sure is to get an estimate!)

Ready to take the plunge?

Are you ready to take the plunge and get a FREE estimate on your very own fiberglass pool? There’s only one way to find out the true cost of your dream pool… Contact a Thursday Pools dealer today!

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Kentucky?

Posted on February 5, 2020April 15, 2024 by krista

Thursday Pools fiberglass pools are an affordable, durable, and elegant choice for any backyard in Louisville or the surrounding communities in Kentucky.

If you live in or around Louisville, Kentucky, you’re never short of things to do and places to go. Spring is all about Derby season in the “Ville”, so it’s off to Churchill Downs. And the Bourbon Trail is a must-do when out-of-town guests arrive, any time of year. Downtown, the Speed Art Museum and the gallery in the 21c Museum Hotel offer thought-provoking places to contemplate the works of artists from around the globe. (Not to mention a knock-out brunch at Proof on Main!)

But isn’t it nice sometimes to just stay home and enjoy your own backyard? (Especially when the summer heat and humidity sets in!) Wouldn’t it be amazing to have a staycation with your own beautiful fiberglass inground pool? And though there are definitely factors to consider when it comes to these pools, like fiberglass pool cost, local regulations where you live, etc., there are resources to help you plan. You can create your own, private backyard oasis by choosing a Thursday Pools fiberglass pool for your family. You’ll get a lifetime of low pool maintenance enjoyment and quality family time.

Why choose a fiberglass pool?

Fiberglass pools are easier and less expensive to maintain than vinyl or gunite. The crevices in vinyl pool liners and the rough surfaces of gunite pools are havens for algae, which means more time spent on maintenance and more money spent on chemicals. However, the smooth, gel coat surface of a fiberglass pool holds bacteria and algae at bay, which means more time swimming, less time maintaining, and lower chemical use over the life of your pool.
Fiberglass pools are more durable than vinyl or gunite. There are no liners to replace, and they never need resurfacing. They’re quick to install, and the smooth, non-skid finish is safe and easy on swimsuits and tender feet. And, if you want to share your pool with the four-legged members of your family, the gel coat finish means they’re also way more pet friendly than either vinyl or gunite pools.
Fiberglass pools are highly compatible with Kentucky’s Crider soil. The loamy soil in Kentucky is easy to excavate, which will facilitate your inground swimming pool project. Crider soil also has a high capacity to retain moisture so it can shrink and swell with varying weather conditions. The best quality fiberglass pools are better equipped to deal with the shrink-swell pressure than either vinyl or gunite pools are, particularly with innovations like the Geo-Anchoring Pool system.

What’s the average price of a fiberglass pool, installed?

Let’s take a look at how that ballpark formula might apply to some Thursday Pools designs.

Sun Day

Aspen

If you have a large yard and truly want the best of both worlds—both wide-open swim space and lots of built-in spots for relaxing—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 (Design Patent US D851,781 S) is available in three sizes. Let’s check out the largest, which is 40 feet long by 16 feet wide. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $60,072.

What about a beach entry?

You can turn your Kentucky home into an instant beachfront property with one of Thursday Pools’ fiberglass beach entry pool designs (Patent US 10,472,839). They’re the only truly zero entry fiberglass pools on the market. There are two to choose from. Sandal is a curvy, flirty freeform design, and Grace is a classic rectangular design. Beach entry designs will average $1800 per square foot.

Since we like to “go big or go home” in Kentucky, let’s take a look at what the largest size of the Grace design might cost. It’s 40 feet long by 16 feet wide. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1800 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $72,000.

What does a basic fiberglass pool installation include?

Potentially hidden costs of installing an inground fiberglass pool.

Site Preparation. Site preparation refers to anything that would get in the way of setting the pool in the ground. For example, the removal and/or relocation of under and above-ground utility lines or cables such as gas, phone, sewer, and septic would fall under site preparation, as would moving irrigation systems and downspouts. And once your pool builder starts to dig, any underground “surprises,” such as a layer of rock no one expected to find, could add to your bottom line pricing. (However, this is unlikely in Kentucky, due to the great quality of our soil.) If additional equipment needs to be rented, or the excavation ends up taking several days longer than expected, that expense may well be listed by your pool builder as “additional site preparation”, a cost they will pass onto you. You should ask your pool builder to clarify what factors involved in your pool installation project could potentially cause site preparation issues.

Note: Excavation issues are less like in Kentucky, due to fiberglass pools are highly compatible with Kentucky’s Crider soil. The loamy soil in Kentucky is easy to excavate, which will facilitate your inground swimming pool project. Crider soil also has a high capacity to retain moisture so it can shrink and swell with varying weather conditions. The best quality fiberglass pools are better equipped to deal with the shrink-swell pressure than either vinyl or gunite pools are, particularly with innovations like the Geo-Anchoring Pool system.
Access. Your new inground fiberglass pool will be delivered in one piece, which means your pool builder needs clear access to your yard for the pool and necessary construction equipment. Access issues could include trees, brush, or fencing that might need to be moved or removed prior to installation. Your pool builder might also need to build a “temporary driveway” with gravel or protection mats to gain needed access. These costs could also end up on your total bill, so be sure to ask each pool builder to include in the bid what accessibility issues might need to be addressed on your project.
Permits. As with any other building project, permits are required prior to installing an inground swimming pool. Some builders take on that task for you and include the cost in the contract, but some don’t. So during the project’s estimation phase, be sure to ask if they’re taking care of procuring and paying for the permits or if that’s on you. If you’re responsible for obtaining the pool permit, call your local municipality for pool permit prices. There may also be other costs involved, depending on your local ordinances. For example, you may also be required to put up a temporary fence during construction or implement erosion control measures.
Restoration. Heavy construction equipment can cause sidewalks and driveways to crack. Unless otherwise stated in the pool contract, the repairs of your existing driveway and/or the removal of any temporary driveway installed for accessibility to the site will be your responsibility. You’ll also want to think about new and existing landscaping after the project is complete. A “rough grade” is typically part of your pool contract but a “finish grade” is not, and a finish grade is what you need to seed or sod your lawn. You might also need to add topsoil. Large landscaping and hardscaping designs can often cost as much as the pool, so it’s important to have a complete plan and estimated costs ahead of time. Remember, not everything has to be done at once. You can start enjoying your pool right away and add on to your landscaping over the years.
Electrical. An electrician will have to run the wiring for the pool equipment and lights. Few pool builders include electrical in their quotes because they don’t typically have an electrician on their team. If you already know an electrician you trust, you might prefer him or her to do the work to the pool builder’s specs. Your current electrical system may or may not have enough power or space in the breaker box to meet the needs of the pool equipment, so you may need to add a sub-panel or upgrade your electrical system.
Dirt Hauling. When you dig that big hole, you have to put all that dirt somewhere. If you don’t have a spot for it (or don’t know someone who wants it), then you’ll have to pay someone to haul it away. The cost of this will be determined by how many truckloads of dirt there are and how far away the dumpsite is. Your pool contract might specify that only a certain amount of dirt will be hauled away, or it may say that dirt hauling is your responsibility. Unless you have a plan for the dirt, be sure to read your contract closely and ask your pool builder how much dirt will result from the excavation as well as how much of it is up to you to remove.

Kentucky swimming pool regulations.

Some states, like Alabama, leave swimming pool regulations up to individual counties. However, in Kentucky, state-wide laws apply to residential inground pools.

Here’s what you should know:

A barrier fence at least 48” high is required around the pool and the maximum allowable gap from the bottom of the fence to the ground is 4”.
If the wall of your house serves as one of the four barrier walls, you must have one of the following:
- An automatic pool safety cover.
- Alarms on any doors with direct access to the pool area with deactivation switches at least 54” above the threshold of the door.
- In some cases, self-closing, self-latching doors may be accepted but are subject to inspection.

Enjoy the benefits of the fiberglass pool lifestyle.

Fiberglass pools create a spot for legendary parties. Louisville is a city that loves to entertain and we’re always looking for new ways to make a splash. Recently, the world’s first and only fiberglass pools with beach entries (zero entries) and sunken living areas were introduced on the market. So, if you’re a trendsetter who loves to throw a party, you could be among the first to have one of these innovative and unique fiberglass pool designs. Your pool parties will be the talk of the town!

You’ll get the best of both worlds. Fiberglass pool have loads of built-in features like tanning ledges, wrap-around benches and swim-outs that make it so easy to visit and relax. But most fiberglass pool designs also have wonderful, wide-open swim lanes. So, if you’re looking to include swimming exercise in your workout routine, a fiberglass pool with open swim lanes can help you accomplish that goal. Once you’ve experienced the fiberglass pool lifestyle and all the health benefits of swimming, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one.

Thursday Pools has a fiberglass pool design for every Louisville family and every budget.

Whether your home is in downtown Louisville, or a beautiful surrounding community like Indian Hills, Hurstbourne Acres, Langdon Place, Anchorage, Crestwood, Northfield, Pewee Valley, Douglass Hills, Windy Hills, Prospect, Graymoor-Devondale or Jeffersontown, there’s a Thursday Pools design that will fit right in to your backyard’s style.

Thursday Pools fiberglass pool designs come in a great variety of shapes and sizes. You’ll want to consider how much pool your yard will fit (and how much pool you really need and want). You should also think about how you’ll use your pool, and choose a pool that fits your family’s personality. As you get further along in your research, check out our handy Pool Cost Calculator and Pool Selector Tool to get a better idea of how much your total pool project might be. (But the only way to know for sure is to get an estimate!)

Ready to take the plunge?

How Much Do Fiberglass Pools Cost in South Carolina?

Posted on January 16, 2020March 28, 2024 by krista

It’s time for a South Carolina roll call. Myrtle Beach! Columbia! Greenville! Charleston! Wherever you are in South Carolina, the weather makes year-round enjoyment of a backyard pool possible. An inground fiberglass pool is a great investment in the full enjoyment of your home, so where do you start your research? No matter where you are in the Palmetto State, your first question when you’re researching a fiberglass pool is probably, “How much does a fiberglass pool cost in South Carolina?”

Where is the value in a fiberglass pool?

Before jumping into the cost of a fiberglass pool, it’s worth considering why you would have interest in a fiberglass pool. In other words, what makes a fiberglass pool a great value versus gunite and vinyl? Here are a few of the best things about fiberglass pools:

Low maintenance. Fiberglass pools are easier to own and maintain versus alternatives like gunite (concrete) and vinyl. The smooth, gel coat surface holds bacteria and algae at bay—meaning you spend less time brushing and use fewer chemicals over the lifetime of owning the pool.
Durability and practicality. Fiberglass pools are less prone to degradation than gunite and vinyl. The surface is easy on swimsuits and tender feet. And it’s pet-friendly!
Feature-rich. Fiberglass pools offer an array of innovative features like built-in tanning ledges, wrap-around benches and even beach entries—usually built around wide-open swimming space!

What’s the cost of an inground fiberglass pool in South Carolina?

We’ve discussed what makes a fiberglass pool such a great value. So now, let’s talk about cost. Your neighborhood, topography, and other factors may play a role in assigning a dollar value to your pool, but we can ballpark a cost. In South Carolina, you could estimate an inground fiberglass pool at approximately $1,500 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.

Sun Day

If you’re after the graceful curves of a freeform pool, our Sun Day design might be the perfect complement to your backyard. It’s available in three sizes with a maximum length of 39 feet. The smallest size is 30 feet long by 15 feet wide. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation might run around $45,060.

Lil Bob

If your family is very active and loves to play, our Lil Bob fiberglass pool design might fit the bill. 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.

Aspen

If you have a large yard and truly want the best of both worlds— wide-open swim space and lots of built-in spots for relaxing—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 three sizes. Let’s check out the largest, which is 40 feet long by 16 feet wide. Applying our formula of an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation would be $60,072.

Are there any hidden costs in pool installation?

As we always stress, every installation is different. Occasionally things will appear in your installation that a basic ballpark estimate might not have considered. A perfect example of this would be in Richland County, where safety/security fences are required at home pools. 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, are as follows:

Site Preparation – roots, rocks, irrigation systems, and utilities are just a few of the considerations.
Access – pool installers have trucks, earthmovers, and cranes, and they need access to your backyard.
Permits – municipalities have different permitting and construction site requirements. It’s important to know yours.
Fencing – as we mentioned above, fencing and pool safety covers may be a nice-to-have, or they may be a must-have, per local ordinance.
Restoration – it’s a big construction project, and sometimes that means significant clean-up and restoration.
Electrical – is your backyard wired? Is your pool installer estimating and doing the work themselves or through a subcontractor?
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 South Carolina?

As you can see, Thursday Pools has pool designs to fit every budget. And we’ve got the experience to work with you and your dealer to find the pool that fits your budget, your yard size, and your family’s personality. We maintain a tight relationship with our dealers and provide dealers and pool buyers with the tools they need for every step of the process.

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 talk to your local dealer for more information.

Reap the Health Benefits of Exercise in Your New Fiberglass Pool

Posted on January 9, 2020May 15, 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.

How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Alabama?

Posted on January 8, 2020March 28, 2024 by krista

Thursday Pools fiberglass pools are a unique combination of durability, elegance and affordability.

On average, there are well over 200 sunny days per year in Alabama. With its southern latitudes, the climate is temperate, and a backyard pool can be enjoyed for much of the year. It can be an investment in your health, in your family lifestyle, and in the way you entertain neighbors and friends. If you’re considering the lifetime of fun an inground fiberglass pool can provide, the next logical question is, “how much does a fiberglass pool cost in Alabama?”

Why choose a fiberglass pool for your Alabama home?

Before jumping into the cost of a fiberglass pool, it’s good to talk about value. In other words, what are the features of an inground fiberglass pool that make it worthy of your consideration? If you haven’t looked at the latest fiberglass pools available, you might not be aware of how far they have come in the last decade. Modern fiberglass pools feature stunning color, ease of maintenance, low lifetime maintenance costs, algae resistance, and expansive design options.

An inground fiberglass pool is:

Flexible enough for Alabama’s various soil types. Alabama’s soil ranges from clay to sand to “Bama soil,” a dark brown sandy loam which is a mix of clay, sand and silt. When assembled with a Geo-Anchoring Pool System, fiberglass pools are better equipped than other pool types to deal with the shifting temperatures and the contraction-expansion cycles in the soil and groundwater.

Easy on feet and clothing. The beautiful gelcoat finish on Thursday Pools’ fiberglass pools not only provides a striking shimmer on the water’s surface, it also provides a durable, non-skid, non-snag finish that’s easy on feet and swimsuits. Perhaps most importantly, it’s pet-friendly too!

Unmatched durability. Fiberglass pools require less maintenance and fewer chemicals. They are structurally sound and resistant to the accumulation of algae and other mineral deposits that plague other pool types.

Diverse design options. Fiberglass pool manufacturers are innovating. Where just a decade or two before, there were few options for pool designs, the variety of fiberglass pool sizes and shapes available today is much more extensive.

Feature-rich. Fiberglass pools, with their diversity of styles and sizes also offer features that homeowners love. Options like zero-entry pools (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839), tanning ledges, wrap-around benches, swim-outs and bubblers make fiberglass pools feel luxurious and custom.

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

Let’s dig in! Costs will be impacted by geography, local statutes, the amount of site prep necessary, environmental and landscaping work, and the rehabilitation required after installation. A dealer familiar with the local rules and your site can provide a tight quote, but for general guidelines, you can use a figure of $1,500 per linear foot (pool length). For example, if you’re asking “how much does a 12×20 inground pool cost,” then at $1,500 x 20’, your ballpark cost is $30,000. Now, let’s look at some specific Thursday Pools’ pool designs.

Sea Turtle

The Sea Turtle is a small pool that maximizes swim space. Even in a small backyard, you can install a pool with plenty of room to splash around. The Sea Turtle is 19.5 feet long and 9.5 feet wide. At an average cost of $1,500 per linear foot, a basic installation is estimated at $29,250.

The Sea Turtle works in so many settings! Check it out!

Lil Bob

We call it Lil Bob, but it’s plenty big. Lil Bob’s flat bottom makes it great for an active family, and full-length steps and long benches are great for courtside viewing. This design is 27.5 feet long and 13.5 feet wide. With our average cost per linear foot formula, the Lil Bob is estimated to cost around $41,250.

Lil Bob keeps things rolling. See how!

Goliath

Go big or go home (or stay home for that matter). Install a Goliath, and enjoy its big, wide-open swim space. The largest is 41 feet long and 16 feet wide. By applying the formula of average cost per linear foot, a basic installation is estimated to be $61,500.

Goliath takes a clean, modern approach to backyard style.

What does a basic fiberglass pool installation include?

What is standard may be driven by market demand, dealer capabilities and factors unique to your state or municipality, so it’s best to find a dealer in your area for details.

Some items you’ll often see in standard quotes include heaters, lighting, a base level of decking, and a pool cover. Additionally, most of these standard options can be upgraded in some fashion, through greater quantity, automation, or other means.

Are fiberglass pools worth it? Are there downsides or hidden costs?

Fiberglass pools are unique in that they are manufactured off-site, brought to your backyard, and then installed. Some requirements to install an inground fiberglass pool are unique to fiberglass pools, and some are true for all pools.

Site Preparation. Before your fiberglass pool shell arrives, there is work to be done in the backyard. Your installer must check for utility lines and accommodate or remove them when considering the installation site. Irrigation, downspouts, and other geological impediments must be noted and considered. Excavation may be included in your install, but depending on the age of your home, the type of construction, and the structure of the site, you might find some elements of site preparation that require extra time and money.

Access. Your pool arrives in one piece. Imagine you’re delivering a grand piano to a high-rise apartment. In some ways, the task is like that. It’s a large piece of furniture delivered to your backyard. Your installation crew needs space to access and move around in the install site. Costs might include the construction of a temporary driveway for equipment or removal of branches or fencing that is in the way.

Permits. As with many building projects, permits may be required before the installation of your pool. It may be a simple matter of filling out paperwork, or it may require on-site inspections. This can add time and costs to the process. Your dealer should know the local ordinances, and you may also want to check on any HOA guidelines to which you may be subject.

Fencing. Fencing may be factored into your dealer contract. Alabama state law does not require fencing around residential pools, but some municipalities and counties do. These laws evolve, and it’s good to check in with your dealer to understand what pool cover or fencing requirements might be applicable.

Restoration. Heavy construction equipment is required to deliver your fiberglass pool. Dirt has to be removed and hauled away. Decking and other materials must be brought to the site. A “rough grade” might be part of your basic installation project, but a “finish grade” might be what you want to complete the job. Plan ahead as you think about the landscaping of your backyard. It may be a project that you want to quote and budget for separately, or even something you plan out over the next few years.

Electrical. An electrician will need to run wiring for filtration and lights. This may require upgrades or the addition of a separate breaker box to meet the needs of your pool’s operation. Dealers don’t always include electrical in their quotes and may specify that you contract with an electrician.

Dirt Hauling. A backyard pool can require the removal of dirt equivalent to the volume of a one or two-car garage! That’s several truckloads of dirt that needs to be hauled away. Read your contract closely to be clear on how much dirt hauling is included. The proximity of your home to the dump site may also impact your bill.

Does a pool add value to a home in Alabama?

Swimming pools are popular in the state of Alabama, and according to Bankrate, they add value. For you, it’s about finding a fit. Thursday Pools has a fiberglass pool design for every family. It’s up to you to consider how you’ll enjoy your pool and make the choice that fits your wants and desires. The Pool Selector Tool is a useful resource in making that decision, and the Pool Cost Calculator can provide an idea of what that choice might cost. For the most accurate estimate, contact a Thursday Pools dealer in your area.