Perhaps you have always loved the aesthetic of a zero-entry pool, but you have heard it takes up too much space, so you’re also considering a tanning ledge fiberglass pool design. Choosing between abeach-entry fiberglass pool design or one with a tanning ledge for your backyard is not just about building a pool. It’s about building your home life. A place where you’ll drink your coffee in the morning, splash with your kids at noon, and watch the sunset over rippling water. The choice isn’t about which one is more luxurious—both are. Think about your lifestyle and imagine the moments you’ll create. Here’s how each option shapes up and how you can decide.
What’s a Beach Entry?
A beach entry is just what it sounds like—a gentle slope into the water that starts at zero depth. It’s like stepping into the ocean, except the sand doesn’t come home with you. The beach entry portion of the pool gradually slopes from 0 inches at the edge to approximately 18 inches deep, where it transitions into the main swim area. The water comes up to you around nine to twelve inches near the end of the downslope.
Why You’ll Love It
Natural, Easy Access: Whether you’re five or seventy-five, descending into the water feels effortless and welcoming. It’s particularly great for families with young children or older adults.
Built for Togetherness: The gradual slope creates a large wading area where kids can splash, friends can gather, and you can sit and relax without fully submerging yourself.
A Resort in Your Backyard: A beach entry evokes a high-end, vacation-like vibe, perfect for turning your backyard into a private escape.
What’s a Tanning Ledge?
A tanning ledge is a flat, shallow platform—about 12 inches deep—designed for lounging. With no slope, the water comes up to you around six to eight inches across the whole ledge.
Why You’ll Love It
Relaxation Central: The tanning ledge is a dedicated space for sunbathing or unwinding with a book and a cool drink.
Keeps Swim Space Open: Unlike a beach entry, the tanning ledge is compact, preserving most of the pool for swimming, games, or floating.
Versatile for Families with All-Aged Children: It’s great for sunbathing and for small children to play while you keep an eye on them. At the same time, it leaves a larger open space for the active swimmers.
Grace and Aspen: Modeling the Differences
The Grace and Aspen pool designs from Thursday Pools can help illustrate how these two shallow-end features work. Both are rectangular, beautifully designed fiberglass pools with identical dimensions—16 feet wide, 40 feet long, and a deep end of 5 feet, 10 inches. The key difference? The shallow end.
Feature
Grace (Beach Entry)
Aspen (Tanning Ledge)
Design Specs
Shallow End Design
Gradual slope from 0 inches to ~18 inches
Flat platform, ~12 inches deep
Swim Space
Reduced due to slope
Larger area for active swimming
Relaxation Zone
Large wading area
Compact, dedicated lounging space
Overall Mood
Resort-like, luxurious
Modern elegance with practicality
Your Pool, Your Story
How will you use your pool? A beach entry is ideal if your vision includes young kids splashing in the shallows while grandparents dip their toes. Its gradual slope creates a shared space for play and relaxation that everyone can enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer defined spaces for different activities, like lounging on a tanning ledge while others swim freely, the tanning ledge offers more structure. It keeps the deep end wide open while providing a relaxing spot.
The mood you want to set can also guide your choice. A beach-entry pool creates a resort-like atmosphere that feels luxurious and relaxed. This pool type is perfect for homeowners who want their backyard to feel like a private vacation spot. Meanwhile, a pool with a tanning ledge blends sleek practicality with a stylish aesthetic. This pool design delivers a polished, contemporary look and fits beautifully into a contemporary backyard.
The Final Word: Build the Life You Imagine
Here’s the truth: it’s not really about the beach entry or the tanning ledge. It’s about the memories you’ll create and the life you’ll live around your pool. Either way, you’re not just choosing a pool feature. You’re choosing how you’ll spend your mornings, your weekends, and your summers for years to come. Are you ready to stop debating and start creating? Your pool is waiting for you. Schedule a design consultation with a dealer today.
Installing a fiberglass beach-entry pool can transform your outdoor space into a favorite staycation destination. Its smooth, gradual transition into the water is reminiscent of a natural shoreline. However, before deciding on any pool design, you should know whether it will fit nicely in your yard. Evaluating your space, learning about local and HOA regulations, and understanding delivery logistics can help determine whether your yard can accommodate a fiberglass zero-entry pool.
Estimating Your Available Space: Imagine How You’ll Use It
Fiberglass pools are pre-manufactured and come in fixed sizes and shapes. Beach entry pools are no exception. One of your first steps in determining fit is calculating how much usable space you have in your yard. Consider the following:
Pool Dimensions: Measure the available area in your yard to see if it can accommodate the size of the pool itself. For instance, Thursday Pools’ fiberglass beach entry models,Grace andSandal, are designed with fixed widths and lengths. Grace comes in 14’x36’, 16’x36’, and 16’x40’. Sandal comes in 16’x34.5’ and 16’x39’.
Decking: With the pool accounted for, add in the space you’ll need for your pool deck. You should count on at least three feet around your pool’s perimeter for safe walking areas, but you may want a more substantial deck to accommodate other outdoor features.
Landscaping: Incorporate pool landscaping into your calculations. Landscaping around your pool creates a cohesive and inviting space. Tropical plants, natural stones, or small water features can enhance the beach entry’s aesthetic and seamlessly integrate the pool into your yard.
Outdoor Amenities: If you’d like features like an outdoor kitchen, dining area, pergola, or fire pit, confirm you’ll have enough space for these elements. Even if you don’t install them right away, you’ll want to make sure you plan for them to avoid extra expense and hassle in the future.
Pro Tip: Using stakes and string to outline the pool’s footprint in your yard will give you a better sense of how much space the pool will require and how much you’ll have left for landscaping and outdoor living areas.
Homeowners Associations (HOAs): What to Check
If your home is part of an HOA community, you’ll need to comply with their rules in addition to local zoning and building codes. HOAs enforce Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) that may have specific pool requirements, including:
Pool Placement and Visibility: HOAs may restrict where you locate your pool on your property, prohibiting them in front yards or areas visible from the street. They may also require landscaping or fencing to screen the pool from neighbors, cutting into your available pool yardage.
Fencing and Barriers: Beyond the safety fencing required by building codes, HOAs often have aesthetic requirements for fences, such as specific materials or measurements that may have space considerations.
Approval Process: Many HOAs require you to submit detailed plans for review and approval, including proposed:
Pool dimensions and placement.
Materials and colors for the pool and decking.
Landscaping plans to integrate the pool into your yard.
Navigating Local Regulations: What You Need to Know
Zoning and building codes help ensure safe and appropriately placed installation on residential properties. These codes can affect whether your fiberglass beach entry pool will fit in your yard.
Setback Requirements: Zoning codes specify how far the pool must be from property lines, houses, and other structures. For example, a setback requirement might state that a pool must be at least 10 feet from the property line and 5 feet from your home.
Utility Line Restrictions: Contact a utility marking service before excavation to identify any underground lines, such as gas or water. Pools cannot be installed directly over or too close to these lines, and their location can affect your available yard space.
Delivery and Installation Logistics: Make Way for Your Pool
Fiberglass pools arrive at your home in a single piece, so logistics factor in determining whether the pool will fit. Some items to think about include:
Access Routes: A clear path from the delivery truck to your yard is essential. Narrow driveways, low-hanging power lines, or tight corners can make delivery challenging or impossible.
Clearance Requirements & Excavation Space: Consider any obstacles or neighboring structures that might limit access. Not only do you need room for the pool, but you also need room for the excavation equipment to dig the pool’s footprint and maneuver during installation.
Yard Adjustments: If you don’t have room, make some. You may be able to temporarily remove fencing, trim trees, or relocate landscaping to facilitate delivery and installation. Once the pool is in place, you can restore these features to their original locations or redesign them to complement your new backyard setup.
Get Advice From a Pool Professional
Fiberglass beach entry pools offer a unique blend of functionality and aesthetics, turning your backyard into a luxurious retreat. Determining whether one will fit in your yard requires careful consideration of your outdoor space, local regulations, and delivery logistics. By measuring your yard, understanding the pool’s dimensions, and accounting for clearances needed, you’ll have a better idea of the possibilities. If you’d like professional guidance and assurance that your chosen pool design is a perfect fit, contact us toschedule a design consultation with an independent dealer today.
Your beach-entry pool will be the center stage of your backyard—the spot where every lazy morning, lively summer afternoon, and starlit evening comes to life. A beach entry pool is already a statement, but why not complete the beach experience with accessories? From in-pool lounging to evening ambiance, these additions will make each moment of your pool brighter, better, and more luxurious. Let’s look at beach-entry pool accessories to transform your backyard into a place where everything feels just right—like your favorite beach vacation.
1. Elegant Loungers
No beach experience is complete without the perfect place to relax and unwind in style. Whether you go for ones you can put in the pool or out, comfort is key.
Ledge Loungers: LEDGE makes a variety of pool accessories, and thesechaises are designed for in-pool use and sit right in the shallow area of your beach entry, letting you stay cool while basking in the sun. They’re sleek, durable, and available in a range of colors to match your pool’s aesthetic.
Frontgate Balencia Loungers: Line them up and soak up some rays, then stack and store them when you want to use your deck for other activities. Theseresort loungers are crafted with weather-resistant materials and are perfect for the patio.
2. Premium Shade Options
Even sun worshippers need some relief from the heat sometimes. Add shaded areas to your poolside for breaks. Whether you choose portable or permanent shade, or both, you won’t regret the addition.
Tuuci Shade Products: With sleek,modern product designs, Tuuci’s cantilever umbrellas, cabanas, and lounges are elegant poolside shade options that complement a beach-entry pool.
Custom Pergolas: Install a pergola near the pool to blend shade and architectural beauty. Choose wood or metal materials to match your backyard design, and consider adding string lights or flowing curtains for an inviting, Instagram-worthy vibe.
3. Floating Luxury
What’s a pool day without a little time spent floating? Upgrade your water experience with high-end floating accessories.
FUNBOY Inflatables: If you’re going to get an inflatable, you might as well get something unusual.FUNBOY floats bring a playful, fashionable atmosphere from chic daybeds to whimsical swans.
Big Joe’s Loungers: Who wouldn’t want to float around on a big bean bag? No air is required. Sturdy enough to sit on the pool deck or in the pool, their buyers seem to love their products.
4. Water Features: Beauty in Motion
Enhance the soothing vibe of your beach entry pool with water features that add movement and sound. Deck jets are thin streams of water originating from your deck that arc into your pool, adding a touch of elegance and fun. Custom cascade waterfalls are sleek and modern and can be installed along the edge of your pool, creating the relaxing sound of flowing water.
5. Poolside Fire Features
Extend your pool’s usability into the cooler months or late evenings with fire features that provide warmth and atmosphere. Whether it’s a firepit, fire table, or fire bowl, the visual contrast of the fire and your pool water creates a dynamic, inviting space you’ll never want to leave.
6. Poolside Lighting for Evening Magic
Ambient lighting can transform your pool area into an enchanting nighttime retreat. Along with the string lights we mentioned earlier, consider adding a whimsical touch with floating lights that drift across the water, perfect for evening swims or parties. Highlight the edges of your pool and walkways with subtle, modern lighting. Combining different lighting elements offers a layered, practical, and stunning look.
7. Smart Pool Automation Systems
Why adjust pool settings manually when you can control everything with your phone? These systems make it easy to customize your pool experience, whether you are planning a quiet evening or a lively party.
Hayward OmniLogic System: Manage lighting, temperature, water features, and more with a few taps on your smartphone.
Pentair IntelliCenter: A robust automation system that keeps your pool running smoothly while you sit back and relax.
Ask your pool dealer if they have any recommendations if you are looking to add SMART technology to your beach-entry pool experience.
8. Outdoor Kitchens and Bars
Nothing says “complete experience” like cooking and serving poolside. Having an outdoor kitchen and bar near your pool eliminates the hassle of running back and forth indoors for snacks, drinks, or supplies. Everything you need is there, allowing you to stay connected with your guests or family while preparing and serving food.
Set the Stage
Every addition, from elegant loungers to fire features and smart technology, brings your home closer to staycation perfection. So why wait? Start turning your dreams into a reality, one thoughtful detail at a time, beginning with booking a design consultation. An independent pool dealer can help make it everything you imagined—and more.
Fiberglass pools provide years of memories for pool owners. The crystal-clear water brings joy and relaxation. However, keeping your water clear involves more than just routine cleaning and chemical adjustments. According to independent pool dealers in our network, backwashing the sand filter is an often overlooked yet crucial pool maintenance step for those with this type of filtration system. Let’s explore the importance of backwashing, some frequently asked questions, and how it’s done.
About Pool Filters
There are three available types of pool filters: sand, diatomaceous earth (DE), and cartridge. Sand filters are a very common form of swimming pool filtration, and they are particularly good at catching microscopic particles like algae and phosphates. Sand filters require very little maintenance, but the sand may need replacing every two to four years or so.
What is backwashing?
Backwashing a sand filter is a maintenance procedure that cleans the filter and ensures it operates efficiently. Over time, as water pumps through the sand filter, debris and particles are trapped by the sand, removing them from the pool water. This process gradually accumulates dirt and debris in the filter, which can decrease efficiency and lead to cloudy pool water.
Backwashing reverses the water flow through the sand filter. Instead of dirty water coming in and clean water going out, clean water is pumped backward through the filter. This reverse flow lifts and flushes the trapped debris from the sand bed and the filter through a waste line or drain.
During backwashing, the sand within the filter loosens, allowing the trapped debris to be expelled. After backwashing, the filter is returned to its normal operation mode and ready to filter pool water again. This process is essential for maintaining the filter’s ability to clean the pool water effectively and should be performed regularly as part of the pool’s maintenance routine.
Why is backwashing important?
Backwashing keeps your filter functioning properly and clear of debris. It also helps to keep your water clear. You can religiously add chlorine to the chlorinator, check its settings, sweep down the pool walls, empty skimmer baskets, vacuum dirt and debris from main drains, do water tests, maintain the correct water level, and clean the steps going into the pool. Regardless, your pool water will get cloudy if you forget to clean the filter. Nobody wants that.
What happens if I don’t backwash my sand filter?
If you don’t backwash your sand filter, you may notice your water getting cloudy or debris making its way to the surface of your pool water. As stated above, you can do all other essential maintenance tasks, but none will replace the need for backwashing.
How do I know if I need to backwash my sand filter?
You will need to check your filter’s pressure gauge. When clean, your filter will have a typical reading you should note. You’ll know it’s time to backwash once the gauge reaches 8 to 10 pounds (psi) above your baseline reading. Your water may also look cloudy or dirty when the filter is ready to be backwashed.
What is the proper way to backwash a sand filter?
Turn the filter system off.
Remove, empty, and replace the skimmer basket.
Attach a backwash hose to your filter’s backwash port.
Turn your multi-port valve to Backwash. (Make sure you never turn the multi-port valve handle while the pool filter is on and running.)
Turn your filter system back on. Water should now be flowing out the backwash port and through the hose.
Let the water run for about two minutes, or until the water runs clear in the site glass.
Turn the filter system off again.
Turn the multi-port valve to Rinse.
Turn the filter system back on, and rinse the filter for about 30 seconds to one minute.
Turn the system off.
Turn the multi-port valve to Filter.
Turn the system back on.
Potential Issues and How to Avoid Them
Sand in your pool. If you notice sand in your pool during or after backwashing, then you might have cracked off laterals or piping inside the filter. You may also have too much sand in the filter. The space from the filter’s top to the sand line’s beginning is called “freeboard.” This space is essential to prevent sand from exiting the filter during backwash.
Too much of a good thing. While backwashing is essential, it is possible to backwash a sand filter too often and too much. As mentioned previously, how often you backwash should be based on the readings from your pressure gauge, as too much (or too little) backwashing can lead to some undesirable outcomes. During backwashing, turn the hose off as soon as your water runs clear. Prolonged backwashing of your sand filter can cause “channeling.” Channeling occurs when channels develop down the sides inside the filter. When this happens, water can bypass the sand altogether, defeating your sand filter’s purpose.
As with all aspects of your pool’s operation and maintenance, please follow the sand filter’s instructions carefully, as each model varies slightly. You will likely find directions on the filter itself. Your filter and your pump are the backbones of your pool, and it’s essential to pay equal attention to both of them. A failure of either will cause problems and cost you money. You should consult a pool professional if you have any pool maintenance concerns.
Having a fiberglass swimming pool in your backyard is a dream for many, offering endless enjoyment and memories. However, fiberglass pool installation costs often tempt people to consider the DIY route. While it might seem like a cost-saving option, DIY pool installation comes with significant risks and potential hidden costs that can far outweigh the initial savings.
Is it possible to build an inground swimming pool yourself?
The short answer is yes, it is possible to build your own inground swimming pool. With the demand for inground pools surging, many people believe they will save money and get their fiberglass pool installed faster if they opt for a do-it-yourself inground pool installation. Still, the reality is that installing a DIY inground pool, whether you put it in by yourself or with the help of friends, can be dangerous, cause issues with your pool, and be more expensive when all is said and done.
Are DIY inground pool kits worth it?
The initial cost of inground pool kits may save you money over purchasing an installed pool. However, you might spend a lot more money and experience more delays or setbacks in the long run than if you left it up to an experienced professional. It’s important to mention that we are strictly a fiberglass pool manufacturer. Thursday Pools does not offer fiberglass inground pool kits. Our fiberglass pool shells are only available through independent dealers. Additionally, independent dealers install the pools in customers’ backyards.
What are some cons to installing a DIY inground pool?
The complexity of the installation process means that a DIY approach is rarely as simple or cost-effective as it might initially appear. Some known cons of installing a DIY inground pool include:
High installation equipment costs. Typically, homeowners will not have the equipment needed to install a pool, so you will have to purchase or rent the equipment yourself. This equipment can be expensive and not easy to find. Knowing which equipment to get and having the resources to obtain them is extremely important. Without the proper equipment, you cannot correctly install the fiberglass pool and risk expensive repair costs if something goes wrong.
Installation materials problems. When installing a pool, you will need access to the correct stone “backfill” material and know how much to use. If you use the wrong type of stone or not enough of it, your pool won’t be correctly backfilled, resulting in an unstable pool that moves, cracks, and leaks.
Expensive mistakes. We have seen YouTube videos and heard stories of pools being dropped or crashing into the homeowner’s house. The materials needed to install a pool can be heavy and hard to transport. Stone material and the fiberglass inground pool shell must arrive safely with the proper equipment to pick up and move the pool. If not, you may drop and crack your pool before it gets put in, and that’s on you!
Incorrect pool equipment. Selecting the right pool equipment can be overwhelming because there are many options. A professional pool installer will ensure you have the correct equipment for your pool’s size and type, including the pump, filter, water sanitation system, and heater. If this equipment is not compatible with your pool, leaks can happen, and pipes can crack. Additionally, many equipment manufacturers only provide a limited warranty when non-professionals purchase and install it. Dealers may offer extended warranty plans when the manufacturer or retailer installs this equipment. It is expensive to replace if it breaks and is not under warranty.
Incorrect component placement. Knowledge of where to place the skimmer, returns, and lights for maximum efficiency is essential. Installing your lights, skimmer, and returns at the wrong height or location can cause poor water circulation and unbalanced water chemistry, which ultimately causes poor water health and damage to the pool’s surface.
Excavation issues. When installing a fiberglass pool in your yard, there are things a typical homeowner wouldn’t consider, like drainage, easements, and access. The layout and hole need to be the proper slope and depth. An uneven excavation can cause the fiberglass pool to not be parallel to the house, out of level, and not adequately connected to the base material.
Electrical dangers. Obtaining the correct permits is critical for safety. The wrong permits can lead to improper electrical installations and inspections. A professional installer will ensure your fiberglass pool and equipment are bonded to prevent the transmission of any harmful electrical voltage to pool equipment, people, and pets.
Void warranty. Having a manufacturer’s warranty on your fiberglass pool is extremely important. The manufacturer’s warranty is automatically void with our pools if an independent dealer does not install your pool. While we can’t be 100% sure, we believe most, if not all, pool manufacturers do not honor a manufacturer’s warranty on a pool that a professional didn’t install. Check with your pool’s manufacturer’s warranty. If anything goes wrong with your pool, it may not be covered.
Concrete problems. Pouring concrete around a fiberglass pool is trickier than regular flatwork. Inexperienced concrete contractors can set the concrete too close to the pool wall with their equipment, causing the pool walls to move if not done correctly. Concrete can also get into the pool, which can be a nightmare to clean!
Longer than expected install time. Fiberglass pools are thequickest type to install when a professional installs the pool. If you install it yourself, you may run into delays and roadblocks along the way. Additionally, you should take into account that you will most likely be doing this as a side project on the weekends while still working your regular job throughout the week, making the project take longer.
The bottom line:
Use a professional pool installer that you’ve vetted. A professional dealer’s installation knowledge will help install the fiberglass pool correctly, ensuring your manufacturer’s warranty remains intact. Additionally, most pool builders provide a workmanship warranty over the entire project.
Dealers in our independent dealer network have formed relationships with professionals who can perform the specific tasks you need to install a pool so you can plan to relax in your pool stress-free in no time.
We may not be able to give you DIY inground pool cost figures, but we will recommend speaking with an installer. You can always let them know what budget you have in mind and see if these are parameters they can work in. If you’d like to spend more time planning your budget first, our inground fiberglass pool cost calculator tool can give you a ballpark estimate on your project based on your needs!
Depending on the pool’s age and when pool maintenance gets away from pool owners, the pool’s surface will show it, leading to questions like, “Is it worth resurfacing a pool?” or “How much does it cost to resurface your pool?” Like so many questions homeowners ask, the answer to these questions is, “It depends.” Let’s start by breaking down pool resurfacing costs by pool type. (We should also note: these prices listed here are based on the experiences of our team as well as independent dealers within our network.)
About Fiberglass Pool Maintenance
Fiberglass composites have taken off as the material of choice for many builders and homeowners. The market share for fiberglass pools more than doubled in the early 2000s and has shown steady growth since then. According toBusiness Research Insights, the market expects a 5.5 % compound annual growth rate (CAGR) by 2031. Severalfactors account for the popularity of fiberglass, including the development of better fiberglass manufacturing processes and the incorporation of attractive pool features like tanning ledges, wrap-around benches, and beach entries.
The gel coat and structure of fiberglass are incredibly durable. A fiberglass pool may last for many years without needing resurfacing. In other words, if properly maintained, it can stay in beautiful working order for as long as you are in your home. Fiberglass is not maintenance-free, but the pool industry generally credits it for requiring less maintenance than other inground pool options. As an added benefit, fiberglass pools are the most environmentally friendly inground pools.
Fiberglass Pools Resurfacing Costs
Resurfacing fiberglass pool costs may vary as you have a couple of pool resurfacing options. One is thermoplastic coating. Thermoplastic coating takes just a few days, and you can fill the pool immediately. You can choose a selection of colors that work for either fiberglass or concrete pools. Depending on the pool size, the cost can range from $16,000 to $26,000.
The other option for resurfacing your fiberglass pool is epoxy paint. Epoxy paint is relatively simple and can deliver a quality look for concrete and fiberglass. However, it only works on bare surfaces, might only last five years or so, and requires around two weeks to cure. It can be done between $2,500-$3,000, and you may even be able to do it yourself.
About Gunite Pool Maintenance
Gunite, or concrete pools, require the most resources for maintenance. The more expensive regular maintenance requirements for inground pools include chemical usage, surface care, and electrical load. Gunite pools typically need to be resurfaced as soon as five to seven years, depending on your climate, maintenance regimen, and water chemistry balance. The surface is susceptible to algae, requiring more maintenance and chemical use.
Gunite Pool Resurfacing Costs
When resurfacing is needed, you may get away with a relatively inexpensive epoxy paint option if no paint is on the surface. Otherwise, you probably need to go the route of pool tile, aggregate, or pool plaster (Note: if you’ve heard of plastering a pool, replastering a pool is not the same as resurfacing). These options often land in the $15,000-$25,000 range or more, with tile generally being the highest cost. Some homeowners are replacing their older gunite pool with a fiberglass pool.
About Vinyl Liner Pool Maintenance
Vinyl liners can be very sensitive to imbalances in water chemistry. Improper water balance can cause the liner to fade, wrinkle, or deteriorate more quickly. The seams are a place where algae can more easily grow, requiring more chemical use. Vinyl liners are also more prone to tearing, which is something to watch if you have pets. Even well-maintained liners usually need to be replaced every seven to nine years.
Vinyl Liner Pools Resurfacing Costs
Each time you replace the vinyl liner, your costs range from $6,000 to $12,000. With a rip, you may be able to patch at a cost of a few hundred dollars. If the presence of algae becomes a problem, you may need to enlist the support of a professional pool cleaner.
Regardless of pool type, if you’re actively searching for “pool resurfacing near me,” contacting a pool builder in your area is a good place to start for a more accurate quote. If you want to talk to someone about how much it costs to resurface your pool, don’t hesitate tocontact an independent dealer in your area for more information.
More on Comparing Pool Types
Has all this talk made you want to learn more about the different pool types? If you want to dig deeper into comparisons,download our eBook that does just that. The eBook compares factors like upfront cost, maintenance time and cost, installation time, warranties, available features, and more.
At this point in your pool buying journey, you’ve selected your pool design, including size, shape, and material. If you’ve chosen an inground fiberglass pool, the answer to the question, “How long does pool installation take?” is not as long as you may think! Installation of a fiberglass pool compares very favorably to the alternatives. Of course, there are factors unique to every project, and it helps to understand the details, so let’s outline those here.
Please Take a Number
How much of our lives are consumed with waiting? Months? Years? Supposedly, we spend an average of six months of our lives at traffic lights. And we probably don’t give that much thought. However, waiting can be especially painful when we’re expecting something as luxurious as a new pool. The good news is that a quality fiberglass inground pool is a quick install relative to other pool types.
Note: Please keep in mind both the schedule of your independent dealer as well as the production time of the manufacturer. Your independent dealer should be able to let you know when you can expect your pool to arrive and be completed.
Permits
If you’ve ever been involved in a building project, you know foresight is required. A critical factor is knowing your location and the local permitting and approval process. This is pre-installation work, but the variability that exists in the permitting process can put a hold on your pool installation start date. Depending on where you live, this could be days to weeks or even months. Your pool builder can help you get a jump on this when you are early in the process.
Note: weather is often a factor. Account for your local weather patterns as part of your installation timeline.
Site excavation and setting the pool (2-3 days*)
An excavator has your pool specs from your pool manufacturer. From these specs, the excavator can determine the dig specs for the job. An excavating punch list may include:
An excavated area dug about four inches deeper and a foot wider than the pool itself to allow for backfill material to be added under and around the pool.
A layer of base material that levels and supports the pool shell.
Pre-plumbing work.
Setting the pool into place using an excavator or crane.
Installation of plumbing, electrical and filtration system (2-3 days)
Your pool builder will factor in your needs for valves, pumps and filters, lighting and water features.
Backfill the shell and fill the pool (2-3 days)
The installation team is now filling the area around the pool shell while simultaneously adding water to the pool (It’s essential that these two items are coordinated to equalize the pressure on the shell). Add a day or two if you have a fiberglass pool with a built-in tanning ledge without Backfill Eliminator technology or if you are planning on adding waterline tile.
Inspection (Timing varies)
You’ll now call upon your local building or construction inspector to inspect your pool. Your dealer can be a resource in planning and scheduling this all-important step.
Coping, decking and auto-cover installation. (3-5 days)
Now, you are above the waterline. Your pool installation team will install the coping (top of the pool wall), your automatic pool cover and perform any related prep-work. They will also pour/build your deck.
Clean up, water balancing and add-ons
Your pool area has been a work zone. Now it’s time for any remaining construction equipment or materials to be cleared away. Your pool builder or a pool maintenance pro can help you get your water balanced for a safe and healthy first dip. You may or may not have fencing, landscaping or other fun add-ons associated with the pool installation to complete at this point.
Note: All timeframe estimates are based on typical pool installation times. This timeline is an example and may vary.
As you can see, pool installation can go quickly when you choose a fiberglass pool! As always, you should consult your pool dealer for a more detailed answer to the question, “how long does pool installation take?”
Note: Unfortunately, unforeseen delays do happen. Trouble with permitting, hitting rock, septic systems not being identified, and other issues may all cause delays in your pool installation.
A lot of people are now looking for ways to enhance their homes and turn their backyards into a place where they can take a staycation. Many are considering a new inground pool and probably searched the internet for “fiberglass pool dealers near me” or simply, “pool dealers near me.” Perhaps that’s how you landed here today. Regardless of how you found us, we’re glad you are here. Before you get in touch with a dealer, you’ll want to know the answers to these top ten questions:
Question 1: Which type of pool is the best for me?
Fiberglass Poolsvs. Gunite vs. Vinyl Liner
An inground pool is a big investment. You’ll want to make sure you’re thinking hard about what you’ll get from your investment. There are three different types of inground pools, including fiberglass, gunite (concrete), and vinyl liner. Each has different strengths and weaknesses, depending on your priorities.
If a low, upfront investment is your most important criteria, a vinyl liner pool is probably your best bet. If you’re looking for a completely custom, one-of-a-kind pool—and cost is no object—gunite may be the pool type for you. If you’re looking for a durable, low-maintenance pool with built-in features that’s easy on the eyes, feet, and budget, there’s a fiberglass pool in your future.
See what Thursday Pools’ Annie Brock has to say about choosing the type of pool that is best for you.
Question 2: How much is it going to cost to have my pool installed?
How much your inground pool will cost can depend on various factors – what type of pool you’re looking to get, what add-ons or features you’re interested in, where you live, etc. For example, if you live in a sunbelt state like California, Florida, or Texas, certain inground pool types may be more affordable than if you live in the Midwest. However, keep in mind that the total costs for your pool project depend on a number of other factors.
When you’re working with your pool dealer, you should avoid hidden costs by insisting on a written proposal with all costs calculated, including taxes and extras. A professional dealer will provide a detailed inventory of products, services, and construction prices, and, as long as there are no changes to the scope of the project (such as unexpected problems or changes you request after the project is started), your proposal should be fairly accurate.
However, there are times when no one can anticipate situational costs. I once had a job that was a little difficult to navigate. Unbeknownst to the homeowner or me, we found that the subdivision developer had buried all the tree stumps that were originally cleared from the subdivision into the homeowner’s backyard. To haul away all the stumps, refill, and compact the area, a signed change order would have needed to be agreed upon before any changes were completed. Fortunately, we were able to move the location of the pool. We didn’t need to ask for additional money, and we would never do any work requiring additional money without prior approval from the homeowner. Make sure your builder uses change orders, so you’ll be aware if costs increase as the project progresses.
Watch Annie Brock’s answer to “How much is my pool installation really going to be?”
Another question we often get asked related to the cost of installation is what the installation process is like and how long it takes. Annie answers this question in the video below.
Question 3: How do I compare builders?
Research online to find a company with whom you want to work. One of the best ways to check out a dealer’s reputation is by Googling their business and reading the reviews on their Google business listing. You may see a few bad reviews, but that’s not necessarily a reason to avoid the company. What you want to look for is a decent number of reviews and a rating between 4.0 and 4.8. These ratings will give you an indication of whether the company is reliable and good to work with.
Once you narrow down the list to your best few candidates of “fiberglass pool dealers near me,” dig a little deeper. Find out:
If they are well-organized. Give them a call and ask them to explain their process. It does not take long to figure out if a company is unorganized or is not a seasoned professional.
Their installation time table. If they are asking for a down payment now, but can’t get started for a few months, they may have cash flow problems.
More about their reputation. After checking out Google reviews, check their Better Business Bureau profile. If there are any complaints, did they address and correct them?
If they are good at what they do. They should have multiple examples of their work to show off their design capabilities. Ask them for references from other happy pool owners who they have served.
Which pool manufacturers they represent. Once you know where they get their pools, you can look at the manufacturer websites and compare them.
To further narrow down your selection, choose your top three builders, and evaluate them against each other. While your first instinct might be to go for the lowest price (and working to your budget is important), remember that you may genuinely get what you pay for. Your pool manufacturer will likely help you find independent builders in your area, but here are a few criteria to help you evaluate and select a pool builder.
Set an in-person or video-conference with your builder. Expect to be asked about the ideas you have for your backyard and the budget range you’re looking to stay within. If you’re married, experienced pool builders will most likely ask to meet with you and your spouse together.
Ask for referrals, follow up on them, and watch out for gimmicks. In my experience, as a builder, we were frequently asked for referrals, but the prospective customer didn’t follow up before hiring us. Giving other customers a call is a great way to understand what it’s going to be like to work with your prospective builder. You’ll also want to watch out for gimmicks like giving away “free water,” as most builders already include it in the quote.
Look for builders who guide and educate you through the process. At some point, the builder is going to need to meet at your home, and most good ones will ask for an appointment at your house. Some even require that you visit their design center or store before sending out a representative. You’re looking for a builder that can demonstrate their experience through other projects and by answering your questions. The best builders will ask you how you plan to evaluate builders and guide you through that process. They work hard to help you make the right decision for your family, and that usually results in them having a great reputation in the community.
Question 4: If I choose a fiberglass pool, what do I look for to determine the quality?
Okay, let’s be transparent here. I’m a writer for Thursday Pools. I also agreed to write for them because I believe they are one of, if not the highest quality fiberglass pool manufacturer in the market today. Not only should you do your homework by starting your search looking for a “pool dealer near me,” but you should also search “fiberglass pool manufacturers.” Here are what I consider to be a few key aspects of a high-quality fiberglass pool:
Unique craftsmanship. It takes master craftsmen who have a lot of experience in the fiberglass composite industry to create elegant and functional designs. Thursday Pools has 35+ years of experience in manufacturing fiberglass and composites.
A proven process. Thursday Pools has a process that takes their innovations from start to finish, ensuring quality is maintained. All Thursday Pools fiberglass pools are built to meet strict ISO 9001 standards for quality of construction materials as well as ISO 140001 standards for environmental stewardship.
Fiberglass pool strength. The durability of the fiberglass pool is tantamount. Thursday Pools is one of the only manufacturers I know that adds vertical and horizontal supports throughout the pool by using a tubular construction method and a honeycomb core. This construction technique is applied to all horizontal surfaces such as steps, benches, and tanning ledges, and vertically along the pool wall. They finish their pools by adding 360 degrees of strength around the pool coping, which provides additional rigidity and strength to the pool.
Texture and surface finish. Every step into your pool should be safe. Ask about the texture of the pool and how the manufacturer is ensuring a non-slip surface while ensuring it isn’t rough. The surface should look stunning while not snagging your swimsuit or being harsh on your feet.
Question 5: How much should I expect to pay in annual pool maintenance?
This is a question some pool buyers really don’t consider before they buy. For example, some inground pool types have an attractively low upfront cost but will end up costing more in repairs and maintenance over the lifetime of the pool. As you conduct your research, make sure to ask the pool builders about estimated maintenance costs, as they will vary based on your geographic location. Make sure they include maintenance costs for the following:
Balancing your pool water chemistry
Pool filtration system
Pool skimmers and returns
Here’s another video from Annie about how much you should expect to pay in annual pool maintenance.
You also might be interested to hear that fiberglass pools are easier to maintain than other inground pool types.
Question 6: How long should I wait to swim after shocking the pool?
There are many variables on this subject, including:
how much water is in the pool,
the chemicals that you use,
how much chemical you have put in the pool,
and the amount of sunlight.
Thursday Pools recommends that when it comes to water chemistry, you seek advice from your local pool maintenance professional. If your pool was manufactured by Thursday Pools, you should refer to our Owner’s Manual for our recommended water chemistry levels.
I have heard those that say two to five hours, or shock late and let it sit overnight, or wait for the pump to run at least 8 hours. I think the absolute best way to be safe is to test the water, checking for 5ppm of chlorine, or wait 24 hours with the water circulating.
Most importantly, all professional testing pool stores are well versed in what they recommend you add and know the amount of time you should stay out of the pool. As I mentioned above, always consult a professional before managing the water chemistry in your pool.
Question 7: Can a pool be built at any time during the year?
Well, it depends based on where you live. There are year-round builders located in warm, dry climates. Those of us in the northern states are restricted by winter weather where freezing temperatures, snow, and ice are normal. Most of the country has a March through November construction season. Not to say that there are not some fiberglass pool builders near you that are likely giving it a go all year.
As a former pool builder myself, I found it very difficult to try to fight winter. Most builders will agree with that reasoning. Winter is not the best time to install a pool in the Midwest, but with the fluctuations in the weather, it’s getting done more than it was in the past. A fiberglass pool and a vinyl pool are installed very quickly in proper weather conditions, so wait for the right conditions.
Learn more about the best time to buy a pool by watching a short message from my colleague, Annie Brock, at Thursday Pools.
My advice is to plan in the fall for a spring installation. Check with your local builder for the best time and deals they may offer. Ready to connect with an independent fiberglass pool dealer near you? Simply click the button below, and we’ll get you in touch with someone from your area.
Question 8: What kind of built-in features come with inground pools?
More and more pools are becoming a place to socialize with friends and entertain. They create an iconic experience in the privacy of your backyard. When you’re on Google typing in “dealers near me,” one thing you might want to consider before contacting a dealer is the built-in features you’d like to have in your new fiberglass pool.
One of the most common trends in built-in features for fiberglass pools are tanning ledges. A tanning ledge is a shallow area in the pool that will allow you to place some additional furniture in the pool. It offers a nice place to sit and cool off when you’re not ready to go for a swim or play in the water.
Models like our popular Aspen, pictured to the right, offer a great opportunity to place a couple of ledge loungers in the pool area. Look at that wide-open ledge in the image. It’s perfect for two loungers.
You’ll also see a couple of other great built-in features in the same picture, a bench for lounging or sunbathing in the pool, a courtesy ledge that provides a resting area for swimmers, and two sun shelves located at the deep end of the pool.
When you check out our pool designs, you’ll see many other features, including the beach entry fiberglass pool (Patent US 10,472,839).
Here’s another great video from Annie about built-in features.
Questions 9 & 10: What types of pools are best for dogs and kids?
Seriously, there are certain types of pools that are better for dogs and kids. Wouldn’t it be nice if our dogs could speak for themselves? I’m not sure I’d always want to hear what they have to say, which is why you have to watch this video and see what a couple of dogs had to say about their owner’s antics in the pool.
Okay, I hope you at least got a good laugh from watching that video, but it didn’t really answer the question. So, here’s Annie to give you some advice on the best pools for dogs and kids.
A big thanks to Annie Brock from Thursday Pools for helping me answer your questions.
Now, only one question remains … Are you still searching for “a pool dealer near me?”
If you are, then simply click the button below, and we’ll get you in touch with one of our independent Thursday Pools dealers.
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.”
Through 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!
You are by this NOTICE advised that pools manufactured by Thursday Pools are sold by independent dealers and dealerships. Each dealer is an independent business entity, that is completely separate from the manufacturer, Thursday Pools. Each dealer is an independent contractor, and no dealer is an owner, agent (in fact or law), or employee of Thursday Pools, the manufacturer. Thursday Pools, the manufacturer, hereby disclaims any liability for an intentional or negligent act by any dealer, dealership, or installer, or any damage to any Thursday Pools pool caused by an act of any dealer, dealership, or installer.
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.
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 Poolcan 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.
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.
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.
Meet the Sandal Beach Entry by Thursday Pools (Patent US 10,472,839). It’s a beautifully designed fiberglass pool beach entry. Its perks include a zero-entry, free-form shape that gives beach lovers the experience of the beach without the sand in the pants.
The entry area provides plenty of room for the toddlers in your life to splash around while still leaving space for a couple of ledge loungers. The true zero entry allows you to dip your toes to cool off or enjoy a gradual entry into the water.
Start making memories with one of our most popular and innovative designs.
It’s been said, in life, we don’t remember days; we remember moments. The first step into your beach entry fiberglass pool is likely to be a very memorable moment in your life. Whether you’re lounging at the water’s edge, watching the kids splash around or chilling on the swim-out, the Sandal gives you plenty to enjoy.
Customer Testimonials
“If you love the beach and want to relax, it’s great. It’s a good size, and the care on it has been very easy.”
– David Siegel
“We got married at the beach. It offers a space for my sisters and me to relax, while the kids and the dads play in the deep end. ”
– Kelly Siegel
Dealer Testimonial
“What’s nice about this pool is it has a lot of good gathering areas for friends and family. Selling Thursday Pools is easy because of the quality of the pool. ”
– Dave Burton, owner Burton Pools
Check out some of the features you’ll enjoy most with Sandal, one of our fiberglass pool beach entry designs.
The Sandal comes in two sizes:
Take a look at the Sandal Beach Entry’s features that will help turn your backyard into a beach lover’s paradise.
1. Beach Entry. The zero-entry transition makes the Sandal one of the easiest pools to get in and out. And with tanning ledges being one of the most popular features of today’s fiberglass pools, you’ll be happy to know you can fit two loungers in the beach entry area and still give guests plenty of room to enter and exit the pool.
2. Wading area. Tread a little further into the beach entry, and you’ve got a wading area to cool off. It can also be a nice play zone for younger non-swimmers.
3. Wide-open steps and bench. The Sandal’s steps and bench provide a comfy seating area to enjoy a cool conversation, and the non-skid surface provides sure footing to exit and enter the pool. Sitting on the bench, a young child who is 4’6” in height will find the water comes up just to the neckline.
4. Wide-open swim or play area. Your kids have plenty of room to make waves in the beach entry. While we haven’t come out with a wave pool yet, we know kids’ imaginations can fuel plenty of backyard adventures.
5. Sun shelf/swim-out. After a nice long swim, you can take a rest on the swim-out or soak up some rays. A 5’ 11” person can sit comfortably with his waist out of the water while a 5’ 6” person can sit on the lower bench with her shoulders just above the waterline.
6. Courtesy ledge. Extending around the deep end of the pool, the courtesy ledge gives swimmers an area to stand and take a quick break before getting back into the action.
7. Auto-cover ready. Automatic pool safety covers are a fabulous choice for fiberglass inground 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.
Hear more about what our customers think about the Sandal.
Take a 360 tour of the Sandal pool design.
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 Sandal 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 independent 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.
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.
Thursday Pools designs and manufactures fiberglass pool shells that are handcrafted with high 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 qualityand beautiful designs set us apart. Thursday Pools is known for its innovations within the fiberglass pool industry, such as the fiberglass pool 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!