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Category: Fiberglass Pools

Reap the Health Benefits of Exercise in Your New Fiberglass Pool

Posted on 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 water exercise, swimming exercise, health benefits of swimming, fiberglass pools 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: 

  1. 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!) 

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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. 

  1. 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. 

  1. 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. 

https://thursdaypools.com/blog/2020/01/09/reap-the-health-…-fiberglass-pool/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 Did We Choose the Name “Thursday Pools”?

Posted on by cargo

We Chose the name Thursday Pools because it’s fun, easy to remember and, most importantly, because Thursday is the new Friday!

fiberglass poolsBack in the early 2000s, the company now known as Thursday Pools was just a twinkle in our eyes. Our owner and founder Bill Khamis had been tinkering with fiberglass since he was a kid … making model trains, planes and helicopters. Before he even finished college, he had started a fiberglass manufacturing business.

Inspiration struck when Bill ordered a fiberglass pool for his home. When the fiberglass pool shell was delivered, he looked at it and immediately started envisioning ways he would make it differently and better. He created his own mold and realized there was a viable business opportunity at hand.

Bill looked up his buddy Ed Vondell, with whom he had been friends in college. He told Ed he wanted to start a fiberglass inground pool manufacturing company with him. Ed was in, and a partnership was born.

What’s in a name? 

So now, the task at hand was to name the new company. Ed and Bill brought in a team of marketing experts. They knew they wanted a name that was easy to remember and made people feel good. And, of course, they needed something with an available domain name.

After lots of brainstorming, it was actually Bill’s wife Liz who came up with the name Thursday Pools. Why? Because when you own a fiberglass pool, you can’t wait for the weekend to enjoy it … you want the weekend to start early! Everyone loved the idea, and it stuck.

We want our customers to equate the name Thursday Pools to our commitment to growth, innovation and excellence. 

Thursday Pools started out as a 40,000 square-foot facility, manufacturing 3 different fiberglass pool designs. As 2020 approaches, we’ve expanded our facility to 100,000 square feet, more than 2 times its original size, and we’re producing over 20 different fiberglass pool designs (and counting!) We’ve recently doubled our pool storage capacity and created dedicated production spaces for our ever-growing list of innovations, including the world’s first fiberglass beach entry pools (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839) and our soon-to-be-released, world’s first sunken living area fiberglass pools. We’ve also added some amazing members to our team along the way, all of whom are contributing to the good name of Thursday Pools.

Are you ready to get YOUR weekend started early? 

So, there you have it. The story of how Thursday Pools became Thursday Pools. Are you ready to get YOUR weekend started early? If so, get a free estimate on a new inground fiberglass pool today.

Cool Pool Patio Options for Your Fiberglass Pool

Posted on by cargo

 

When you’re first thinking about a new  fiberglass swimming pool, you’re probably thinking about the pool itself— how much does a fiberglass pool cost? Should you choose a  rectangular design or a  freeform? A  big pool or a  small pool? Once you’ve made all the pool design decisions, it’s time to start thinking about how you’ll finish it all off. Your pool patio will become the heart of your outdoor space, setting the stage for everything from relaxing summer days to lively gatherings. 

Is Any Patio Included in the Pool Installation?

As part of the installation quote, many pool builders include 3 to 4 feet of standard concrete patio around your pool. This basic patio can be a good starting point, allowing for some furniture, but you should leave a minimum of 3-foot width for pathways and traffic areas. If you plan on entertaining a lot or have a larger family, you may want to invest in a bigger patio space. Some builders offer patio upgrades directly, while others may recommend a landscape designer. Regardless of who installs it, there’s a pool patio option for almost any lifestyle and aesthetic.

Classic Concrete – Affordable, Simple, and Customizable

Concrete is often the most budget-friendly patio choice, making it a top pick for homeowners who want a durable surface without breaking the bank. They are straightforward to install and provide a minimalist aesthetic that appeals to many. However, if you want to add a touch of personalization to this standard look, consider adding a decorative border around the pool. A 10- to 14-inch border with stamped concrete, pavers, or brick can create a polished and unique look that enhances the overall design. When selecting concrete, ask your contractor if they’re experienced with pool decks. Pouring a concrete patio around the edges of a fiberglass pool requires precision, and an experienced hand will ensure a flawless finish.

Stamped and Colored Concrete – A Plethora of Patterns and Hues

Gone are the days when concrete only came in basic gray. Today, you can choose from many colors to complement your backyard’s aesthetic—beige, brick red, slate blue, or even custom shades to match your home’s exterior. With stamping techniques, concrete can mimic traditional materials like brick, slate, flagstone, tile, and even wood, giving your pool area a high-end look for a fraction of the cost.

You might choose a slate or flagstone pattern in rich, earthy colors for a classic Mediterranean-inspired design. If you prefer a more modern look, geometric stamping in cooler shades like grays or blues might be your style. A Roman-shaped fiberglass pool, for instance, looks stunning with a complementary flagstone-stamped concrete finish.

Exposed Aggregate – Natural Texture with Visual Appeal

Exposed aggregate is an excellent choice for a truly unique texture and aesthetic. The process involves removing the top layer of cement to reveal the underlying stones, resulting in a durable, slip-resistant, and visually striking surface. The exposed rocks create a natural, riverbed-like effect that is perfect for a rustic or organic design in your backyard.

This patio type fits beautifully around freeform fiberglass pools, especially if you want to create a more relaxed, natural space. The finish also pairs well with lush landscaping and other organic elements, giving your pool area the feel of a natural oasis.

Pavers – Versatile and Stylish for Endless Design Possibilities

For homeowners looking to add both texture and color, pavers are an excellent choice. Pool deck pavers come in various colors, materials, and styles, so you can mix and match shapes and colors to achieve a one-of-a-kind look. Pavers also offer the benefit of easy repairs; if a section is damaged, you can replace individual pavers without having to redo the entire patio.

Patio pavers are durable and can be arranged in different patterns, such as herringbone, basket weave, or a simple staggered design, to create a visually appealing look. For rectangular pools, pavers in neat, geometric patterns create a sophisticated look, while freeform pools pair well with more organic, irregular shapes that blend seamlessly with the pool’s curves.

Natural Stone – Timeless Beauty and Enduring Strength

For unmatched beauty and elegance, choose natural stone like flagstone that is highly durable and adds a touch of class to any poolside area. Natural stone is also slip-resistant and maintains a comfortable temperature in hot weather, making it ideal for pool areas where comfort and safety are essential. Natural stone pairs especially well with freeform pools, as its irregular shapes and textures bring an organic feel to the space. Consider combining it with lush greenery or even a small water feature for a resort-like feel to create a relaxing, spa-like poolside retreat.

The Finishing Touch to Your Backyard Oasis

A well-designed pool patio brings out the best in your fiberglass pool, blending form and function to create an inviting outdoor living area. Whether you opt for budget-friendly concrete, artistic stamped patterns, or the elegance of natural stone, your pool patio will become the hub of relaxation and fun and set the scene for countless memories. Once you have a few patio ideas in mind,  consult with your pool builder or contractor about the specifics of your backyard space.

Six Money-Saving Tips to Lower Your Pool Installation Costs

Posted on by krista

You have decided to purchase a fiberglass inground pool—congratulations! As you’re narrowing your choices and making plans for your backyard’s new addition, you may want to consider a few ways to save money on your pool installation cost. What you pay for a  fiberglass pool can vary greatly depending on numerous factors, but a few options can help lower the overall price. Getting the right fiberglass inground pool is a big decision, and homeowners need information on their options. This blog post explores advice and ways to help lower your initial construction costs.

  1. Choosing the Right Pool Pros

Everyone has their specialties and things at which they excel. As a homeowner, there’s no expectation that you’re an expert in pool installation. Trusting a fiberglass pool dealer you’ve researched and feel comfortable working with can help you save money in the long run.

If the pool dealer is established, highly experienced, and comes personally recommended, that can help save you from many potential headaches (or even swimming pool buyer’s remorse). Trying to save a few bucks on your inground pool cost upfront can result in significant repairs and maintenance expenses in the long run. 

  1. Buy Your Pool in Winter

The winter swimming offseason is a great time to buy a pool. While dealers can install pools year-round in the southern and western regions of the country, colder weather can slow down pool installations in the Midwest and similar climates. You might even be able to take advantage of additional cost-savings if you’re willing to commit to a spring installation but make your pool purchase the fall or winter before. It’s always worth asking.

  1. Select a Simpler Design

While springing for the largest and most elaborate fiberglass pool design is tempting, opting for a more straightforward shell and fewer additional features can significantly reduce costs. Consider selecting a smaller design without intricate surroundings or extra elements like attached spas or elaborate water features. Scaling back such amenities saves homeowners money on the initial purchase, required materials, and the labor involved. A conservative approach to your backyard pool project makes for a more affordable installation and a faster, hassle-free experience.

  1. Build Your Perfect Pool in Phases

Maybe some features and options you’re interested in aren’t the cheapest inground pool options. That’s okay! You don’t have to pay upfront for every bell, whistle, and additional feature.

If your pool budget is tight, ask the dealer to design the project so you can add additional features later. Maybe the fire pit or some of the surrounding landscaping can wait until next year. While options like robotic pool cleaners and automatic pool covers are great, you can always upgrade and purchase them later.

  1. Can You DIY Anything?

Thursday Pools does not recommend DIY installations for fiberglass pools. 

However, some homeowners, who may be electricians or skilled tradespeople, could perform electrical work or pour concrete into the patio. Green-thumbed homeowners can likely do some grading, seeding, and landscaping. They may even be able to purchase building permits and variances as needed. Others may remove trees, install fences, build retaining walls, move sprinkler systems, lay electrical lines, reroute water lines, move septic systems, remove old wood decks, or install gas lines.

You could save on pool installation costs if you have the necessary training and skills. However, if you’re not an experienced contractor, you might cost yourself more in the long run. Ultimately, having an insured, independent dealer do the dirty work is probably best.

  1. Explore Your Financing Options

Explore various financing options for managing installation costs and making your dream pool more attainable. Many dealers offer financing plans that spread pool costs over several years with a competitive interest rate, making monthly payments more manageable on your budget. Look for special promotions, low-interest offers, and flexible terms to find the best deal for your financial situation. Home improvement loans or home equity lines of credit are other cost-effective possibilities to finance your pool through your bank, credit union, or specialized lender.

Save Money with Thursday Pools 

The sooner you do it, the more money you may be able to save on your pool installation cost. Like most other great things in life, industry watchers don’t project the price of pools to drop anytime soon. It goes without saying, but the sooner you do it, the more money you’ll save. Ready to go ahead, take the plunge, and make a splash?

If you’d like to receive a ballpark pricing estimate for your dream fiberglass pool project, check out our innovative inground pool cost estimator! The  Pool Cost Calculator can give you an idea of how certain factors impact pricing.

Learn more about the options and possibilities for financing a fiberglass pool project with our free ebook, “Financing the Pool of Your Dreams,” and reach out to book a design consultation and learning session with a local independent dealer in your area.

What Kind of Swimming Pool is Best for Dogs?

Posted on by krista

Four reasons why fiberglass pools are the best inground pools for dogs

inground poolYou love your dog. Not just like, “He’s a good boy,” kind of love. It’s more like, “He is my baby” kind of love. Your dog is a member of your family. So, if you’re thinking of getting an inground pool, among the other factors you’re considering, you might be wondering what type of pool is best for dogs. You’ll be choosing among three types of inground pools; vinyl, gunite and fiberglass.

Spoiler alert. The answer is a fiberglass pool, and here are four solid reasons why:

  1. The smooth gelcoat surface of a fiberglass pool is pawsitively perfect for pets. Gunite (concrete) inground pools can scratch your pet’s paws, preventing him/her from really enjoying the pool. But with the smooth, durable interior of fiberglass pools, your entire family can enjoy smooth, scratch-free fun in the pool. You’ll never have to worry about snags on your swimsuits or sore feet from rough surfaces.
  2. Fiberglass pools help you avoid claw catastrophes.If you have a vinyl pool, your dog’s claws can penetrate your vinyl liner. And that kind of damage WILL NOT be covered by your warranty. With a fiberglass pool, you can play games with your pet in the pool without worrying about damaging the surface or causing scratches or tears.
  3. Wide-open steps and beach entries on fiberglass pools mean easy in and out for pets. While some dogs seem to get a kick out of splashing everyone who’s in the pool, many pets, especially puppies and older dogs, need a way to ease into the water. The best fiberglass pools have nice, wide-open steps, and many designs have tanning ledges, which make a perfect perch for pets. And now, there are true beach entry fiberglass pool designs (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839) that allow for the ultimate way to walk into the water on the non-skid surface.
  4. You’ll enjoy lower overall maintenance with fiberglass. If you’re planning to let your pet swim, you’re automatically committing to a lot more skimming, no matter what type of pool you have.  But in addition to hair, dogs’ coats and mouths can carry bacteria into your pool. However, the impervious surface of fiberglass means it’s easier to keep your water balanced and spend less time on pool maintenance.

Fetch yourself a fiberglass pool! 

So, here’s the takeaway … If you want the best pool for every member of your family, including your furry kids, your number one choice is fiberglass. Get a free estimate on a new fiberglass pool today.

Is It A True Beach Entry?

Posted on by krista

Don’t be fooled by imitations!

beach entry fiberglass poolAre you considering a beach entry fiberglass pool? Are you confused about the options out there? Don’t be! We are here today to educate you on what constitutes a beach entry inground pool design. We have worked hard to design a fiberglass pool that meets the definition of a beach entry. Our beach entry designs (US Patent 10,472,839) start you at a point of zero water depth giving you that zero entry pool you dream of!
Having said that, there are a lot of folks trying to catch some of the beach entry buzz, and their claims can be misleading. Not every pool that claims to be a “beach entry” is technically “zero entry.” Let’s take a look at some fiberglass pool designs that might claim the name “beach entry”, but do not offer you the experience of, or meet the definition of a beach entry fiberglass pool.

  1. Simple Step. Some pool designs touted as a “beach entry” actually have a four-inch step-down onto a large landing area or sun ledge. While these are nice designs, they are not a beach entry. The four-inch step-down may not seem like a lot, but it also doesn’t take into account the thickness of your pool coping or cantilever concrete which sits on top of the pool shell. With the average height of pool coping at four inches, that takes your initial step into the pool to eight inches. Once your pool is installed, you’ll realize you have quite a distance to step down into before you actually get to the “beach.” Swimmers who are less than steady on their feet may have a hard time safely negotiating this type of entry, which negates one of the main benefits of having a beach entry to begin with.

step down fiberglass pool

  1. Sloped Tanning Ledge. This version also begins with a four-inch step down, onto a sloped tanning ledge. Again, this design does not have the same effect as a beach entry. You’re not starting from a dry point and stepping into water—you’re in water from the point where the pool begins. The same coping height applies to this design as well, making your first step an eight inch step-down onto a WET, sloping surface. This option also fails to offer the luxury of the zero entry beach experience and could make it tricky for both two and four-legged swimmers to safely enter and exit the pool.

sloped tanning ledge fiberglass pool

So what does a beach entry look like?

A beach entry pool can transform your backyard, creating a place for family staycations for years to come, and be the inspiration for fabulous beach-themed parties and celebrations. But, if you’re considering getting a beach entry pool, you need to ask your pool builder: “Is this really a beach entry pool?” Do your research upfront and make an informed decision. Then, it’s off to the beach!

Innovations include: 

The Top 10 Reasons You Should Own Your OWN Pool!

Posted on by cargo

Top 10 Reasons to get a pool:

Inground Swimming Pool with Tanning LedgeThere’s a pool in your community, and you’re eagerly anticipating spending your day off there … soaking up the sun, taking a refreshing dip whenever you get too warm, or closing your eyes and taking a little snooze. But when you’re sharing the pool with strangers, it’s often not quite the paradise you’re imagining. The water may be way too hot or way too cold for your taste. There may be a loud group sharing jokes that you don’t find funny. And what about the time you packed everything up to go to the pool, got yourself all settled in and realized you forgot the sunscreen? Yeah … your relaxing day at the pool is sometimes not so relaxing after all.

What if you didn’t have to share? What if you were in total control of your day at the pool? What if you didn’t have to go anywhere but right outside your back door?

Let’s take a look at the top 10 reasons to get a pool! 

  1. You’ll get that precious “me time”. That relaxing day at the pool we were talking about earlier is truly yours. You can spend the day at the pool with anyone you want to invite. But, if you want the pool all to yourself for the WHOLE DAY, you can do that too!
  2. You have the perfect place to party. Having a pool, you can create fun, pool-themed events. Whether you’re sharing your pool with a few close friends or inviting all the neighbors to join the fun, your pool will be the go-to party spot!
  3. You can spend quality time with your kids (AND their friends!) Kids grow up so fast. Having a pool is a great way to keep them wanting to spend time at home as they get older. Plus, they’re likely to spend less time on their devices and more family time with you! Also, if your kids are spending more time at home, their friends are likely to be there too. It’s incredibly valuable to have time to get to know the kids YOUR kids are spending time with and develop relationships with them as well.
  4. You can improve your overall health and fitness. Swimming and other water exercises have an amazing effect on your body, including chronic pain relief and weight loss. You’ll strengthen just about every muscle group while simultaneously getting a great cardio workout. Swimming can lower your stress levels and even your blood pressure.
  5. You’ll enjoy the convenience. Packing lunches, towels, sunscreen and water every time you want to go to the pool gets old. Especially when you forget the sunblock, or worse, you forget to unpack and leave wet clothes in your vehicle overnight. When your perfect paradise is just a few steps from your back door, enjoying pool days is easy!
  6. You control the temperature. Everyone has their own idea of what the perfect water temperature is. What feels refreshing to one person might feel freezing to another. With your own pool, you get to choose what feels “just right” to you and set your heater or chiller to whatever temperature makes you happy.
  7. You control the water quality. Let’s face it. When you get into a public pool, you can never be sure of what’s in that water with you. It’s not pleasant to think about, but unless you’re doing the pool maintenance yourself, you have no way of knowing what invisible contaminants might be swimming alongside you and your family. Having your own pool means the peace of mind of knowing that the water is healthy, balanced and ready for fun all the time.
  8. You may increase your home’s value. Depending on where you live, adding an inground fiberglass pool to your backyard will most likely increase your home’s value. So, in addition to making an investment in quality family time, you’ll be making an investment in your home’s value too!
  9. You can have a staycation every day. With a pool of your own, you might feel like you never need to spend money on a vacation again. And, if you love the beach, you can even bring the shore to your own back door by getting a beach entry fiberglass pool (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to an island getaway (but you can still sleep in your own, comfy bed.)
  10. You’ll be able to look out the window at your beautiful pool. A gorgeous fiberglass inground pool adds a shimmering finishing touch to any backyard. Even when you’re not swimming in it, being able to see sparkling blue water is calming and rejuvenating. With all the fabulous fiberglass pool designs available, you’re sure to find one that perfectly complements your home’s aesthetic and fits your family’s personality.

Ready to take the plunge? 

These are ten pretty great reasons to get a pool, right? Are you convinced? Ready to take the plunge with a fiberglass inground pool of your own? Enjoy all the perks that the fiberglass pool lifestyle has to offer. Get an estimate on a beautiful backyard swimming oasis all your own. You’ll wonder why you didn’t do it years ago.

Get an estimate on a new fiberglass pool today! 

Thursday Pools fiberglass industry innovations include: 

Should I Buy an Inground or an Above Ground Pool?

Posted on by cargo

Getting a new swimming pool is a huge deal requiring careful planning and exploration. Given that you can roll years of vacation travel and expense into one backyard “stay-cation” that can pay dividends year in and year out, your decision to buy a pool is actually an investment decision. Like any investment, you should consider your options well. One of the first choices you’ll be faced with is between above ground pool vs inground pool. If you choose an above ground pool, you’ll be getting a vinyl liner pool, as that’s the only type of pool offered in above-ground styles. If you choose an inground pool, you’ll be choosing between three pool types. In addition to a vinyl liner pool, you’ll also have the options of gunite (concrete) or a fiberglass inground pool.

Above Ground

Let’s take a look at some of the factors to consider between above ground and inground pools, as well as the feature options and pricing to help you narrow the field.

  1. Where you live. This should be your first consideration when you’re choosing what type of pool is right for you because the choice may not be yours. Some homeowners’ associations do not allow above ground pools and may even dictate what type of inground pool you can install in your backyard. So, check any local bylaws before you spend time doing any other research.
  2. Pool Cost. If your budget is limited, and you’re really only interested in having a place to cool off every once in a while, you might prefer an above ground vinyl liner pool. Do-it-yourselfers can find above ground pool kits are the least expensive, starting at around $1,500.  Inground vinyl pools (installed) can cost up to ten times more, with small fiberglass pools (installed) costing between $20,000 and $40,000. Gunite pools (installed) will run between $30,000 and $50,000.
  3. Installation time. Above ground pool kits are designed to snap together, so you could be swimming in a day. By contrast, inground vinyl liner pools will take an average of 30 days to install while gunite pools can take as long as 90 days (in good weather). Because the fiberglass shells are manufactured and shipped in one piece, inground fiberglass pools can be installed in as little as two weeks.
  4. Maintenance. While the low upfront cost of an above ground pool might be tempting, you should be prepared to spend more time and money on  pool maintenance. Gunite pools will need to be resurfaced every 7-10 years, at an average cost of $15,000. However, fiberglass pools never need to be resurfaced and require the least amount of chemicals to maintain. 
  5. Resale value.  In most areas, inground pools improve home value, whereas above ground pools will not. I
  6. Aesthetics. In terms of overall beauty, above ground pools simply cannot compare to inground pools. The compromise you’ll make in terms of upfront cost and minimal installation time means that you’ll be looking out the window at a large object sitting in the middle of your yard, just as you would a jungle gym, swing set or trampoline. Also, if you decide to get rid of your above ground pool, you’ll need to reseed or re-sod your lawn.

inground pools

Any type of inground pool offers you the ability to landscape around it, create specialty decking and add in ambiance-enhancing lighting. With gunite pools, you can choose any kind of custom shape you can imagine (but your cost will reflect that). With a quality fiberglass pool, you can choose from a huge assortment of shapes, sizes and colors, so you can get a custom look at no extra charge. You’re sure to find one that perfectly complements your backyard and your home’s overall look and feel.

In a nutshell, above ground pools are an option if:

  • Your homeowners’ association allows it.
  • You just want a quick and inexpensive way to cool off and pool cost is a big part of your decision.
  • The overall look of your backyard isn’t that big of a deal to you.
  • You might be moving soon and want to be able to take your pool with you.
  • You understand that you might be trading some of your upfront savings for additional repair and maintenance costs down the line.

Inground pools are great if: 

  • Your homeowners’ association requires inground pool installation.
  • Your inground pool cost budget allows for the upfront investment, or you are able to  finance your new pool purchase.
  • Your home’s resale value and the overall look of your backyard oasis are important to you.
  • You’re planning to stay in your home a while to make your upfront investment worthwhile.
  • You’re ready to create a place that will allow you to have quality family time together for many years to come.

Ask the General: Can Dogs Swim in Pools? 

Posted on by krista

Ask the General: Can Dogs Swim in Pools?

Dear General; 

We are getting a new pool! Our kids are pretty excited about it. So is Harvey, our yellow lab. He loves to swim. However, several friends have told us we shouldn’t allow dogs in the pool. What’s your advice? Can dogs swim in pools? Do we have to ground poor Harvey when our new pool comes, or can we let him enjoy the dog days of summer? 

— Dog lovers in Dayton, Ohio 

Dear Dayton Dog Lovers; 

can dogs swim in poolsI have been asked “can dogs swim in pools” many times, as well as if we should let our pets in general use the pool. (This typically means our dogs, because I don’t know too many cats who like to swim.) Well, that’s kind of like asking if you should allow your dogs to sit with you on your furniture or sleep with you in your bed. Will it be easier to keep your furniture and bedding clean if you don’t? YES. Will you reduce the risk of damage to your expensive couch if you don’t have a dog launching itself off of it every time someone rings the doorbell? YES. But, if your answer to the question: “Is your dog one of your children?” is also YES, you might be willing to take on a little extra wear, tear and cleaning in order to have the joy of sharing your pool with your pet. But if you do, you’ll definitely want to choose the right kind of pool.

I once had customers mention during the sales presentation that one of the reasons for purchasing an inground pool was to have their dogs swim with them. This couple’s children had grown and they were “empty nesters.” They had previously owned a gunite pool, and had two golden retrievers that loved to swim with them. They didn’t want another gunite pool, but were worried about the dogs damaging a vinyl or fiberglass pool.

If you plan to let your dog swim, consider these facts

I’ll share with you the same advice I gave this couple. Basically, I’m not a fan of letting dogs swim, because of the extra pool maintenance it causes. But, if having your dogs swim with you is part of your joy in having a pool, of course you should do it. If that’s the case, here are some things you need to consider:

  • Water quality. Dogs can bring contaminants into the water. If they’ve rolled in something in the backyard, it’s going to wash off in the pool. Even if you’ve recently given them a bath, the residue from the dog shampoo is going to end up in your water. You should be especially cautious if you live near a river, stream or lake and your dog also swims there as they can transplant algae into your pool that can be difficult and expensive to get rid of. So give them a good rinse before you let them jump in, and stay on top of your water chemistry.
  • Pool equipment. Dogs shed. I have pulled big hairballs out of a pool pump’s impeller and piping that were causing poor circulation and could have caused a lot of damage to the pump. So, a good brushing before Harvey gets into the pool is a must. Install a fine filter screen in your skimmers. There are mesh filters available that will also help. (And here’s a hint from Heloise: knee-high panty hose can be put inside the skimmer basket to catch the hair before it heads to the equipment.) Always clean your skimmer basket and pump basket after your pet swims.
  • Pet health. Dogs may drink the water while they’re swimming, ingesting chlorine and other chemicals. Needless to say, this is not good for the dog, especially if your chlorine level is running high. If you see your dog lapping up water, you’ll either need to keep them out of the pool or train them NOT to drink the water. On the flip side, swimming is as good for your pet’s joints as it is for yours and it’s great exercise for you and them!
  • Pool structure. The couple with the golden retrievers were correct to wonder about damage to a vinyl liner pool. Your dog could rip a vinyl liner within the first few minutes of getting in, and it WILL NOT be covered by your warranty. By contrast, gunite pools have a rough enough surface that they can do damage to the pads of a dog’s feet. So, if having your pet swim with you is important, a fiberglass pool is the only way to go, for a number of reasons:
    1. An impervious surface. The gel coat surface of a good quality fiberglass pool will be impervious to scratches from your pet’s paws.
    2. Lower chemical use. Fiberglass pools require fewer chemicals to keep your water balanced, and algae can’t roost in the nooks and crannies that both vinyl liner and gunite pools have. So, even if sharing your pool with Harvey means you’ll need more pool maintenance chemicals, you’ll still use less in the long run.
    3. Easy in and out. Most fiberglass pool designs feature wide-open, non-skid steps that will help your pet navigate entering and exiting the pool. Many have tanning ledges and there are now also beach entry (zero entry) fiberglass pool designs (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839) on the market that will allow your furry kids (along with your two-legged kids) to ease into the water on a gentle slope.

Keep everyone safely in the swim

In our house, my dog thinks he’s a rescue dog. He jumps in to try to “save” us. He paddles around for a while, and then he tires, and we end up having to rescue him. Remember that some dogs are better swimmers than others. As with children, dogs need constant supervision in the pool and they need to enjoy the water safely. If you see your pet tiring, make them get out of the water and sideline them for a while. To keep both kids and pets safe, get a pool that’s auto-cover ready and keep it closed whenever your pool is not in use.

Till next time, safely enjoy your pool – The General

The world’s first truly zero entry fiberglass pools 

Thursday Pools is the creator of the beach entry (or zero entry) fiberglass pool. Grace Beach Entry and Sandal Beach Entry (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839) are currently available to order, so you can bring the shore to your door with your new fiberglass pool.

Swimming Pool Myths and Facts

Posted on by JosiahSchaefer

swimming pool myths and facts

Question: Which of the following is true? 

A. You must wait an hour after eating to swim. 

B. Chlorine turns your hair green.

C. Swimming pools take a lot of time and money to maintain.

D. People who own pools don’t really use them.

E. None of the above.

The correct answer is E. None of the above. 

 

There are a lot of swimming pool myths and facts floating around (pun intended) about swimming and swimming pool ownership out there. Let’s take a minute to debunk those swimming pool myths, shall we?

You must wait an hour after eating to swim. 

Sure, mother typically knows best, but, if you have memories of being sidelined at the pool after lunch, wistfully watching your friends having fun, your mom was subscribing to an old wives’ tale. You don’t really have to wait an hour after eating to swim. The thinking behind this myth is that you’re more likely to get a “stitch” or cramp if you swim on a full stomach, but there’s no medical evidence to support it. If you’re prone to cramps, you might want to stretch a bit before swimming, and of course, you need to adhere to pool safety rules. But you can feel free to enjoy your dinner, and then jump in and swim off those calories.

Chlorine turns your hair green. 

The greenish tint that some blonde-haired swimmers sport after swimming is actually caused by copper sulfate, which is used to combat algae. You may or may not use much of it, depending on what kind of pool you have. Algae is most likely to form in inground pools with vinyl liners, where it can hide and grow in the pool seams and crevices, and in gunite pools, in the rough surface of the concrete. Inground pool owners who enjoy the low-maintenance fiberglass pool lifestyle will find they don’t need algaecides as often. Either way, chlorine has had a bad rap on this, and it’s not the culprit.

Swimming pools take a lot of time and money to maintain. 

Again, the level of maintenance your inground pool requires depends on what kind of pool you choose. Because of their durable, gel coat finish, fiberglass pools require fewer pool maintenance chemicals, which means less time and less money for the pool owner. Vinyl pools require, on average, about double the amount of pool maintenance chemicals than fiberglass, and gunite is a whopping four times more.

Sure, getting the hang of your pool maintenance schedule in the beginning can mean a big learning curve. However, if you stay on top of it, regular maintenance for a fiberglass pool should not take longer than one to two hours per week. The rest of the time, you’ll be chilling in your fabulous pool and wondering how you ever lived without it.

People who own pools don’t really use them. 

Families who own inground pools have a great way to keep their kids off their devices and engaged in family life. Homes with pools become the go-to place for kids to gather, so you’ll be able to get to know your kids’ friends. And it’s not just your kids’ friends who will enjoy coming over. Your pool is a wonderful place to host parties and reconnect with people you care about. Pool owners can enjoy the luxury of a staycation every day of the week throughout the swim season.

But there’s more to pool ownership than just socializing. Pools are good for you! Swimming is one of the most popular forms of exercise in the US, and it’s a great way to lose weight, reduce chronic pain and lower your stress level. Once you own your own inground pool, you’ll find every reason in the world to spend your time there.

Take the plunge. (And you don’t have to wait an hour after you eat to do it.) 

Now that we’ve debunked some of the myths of pool ownership, are you thinking that owning a pool may be right for you? Take the plunge today by getting a FREE estimate on a fabulous fiberglass pool. You’ll be in the swim before you know it.

 

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