Fiberglass Pools Archives - Page 5 of 11

5 Things You Should Consider When Buying Beach Entry Fiberglass Pools

Posted on July 15, 2019May 29, 2024 by krista

Beach entry fiberglass pools are the epitome of many of the unique design trends taking the fiberglass pool world by storm (Patent US 10,472,839). These hot fiberglass pool designs are both luxurious and versatile and are the perfect addition to almost any backyard. Having said that, there are some things you should be aware of before making the big purchase. In this post, we discuss the top five things you should know before you make that new addition to your backyard.

Make sure it’s really a beach entry. Don’t be fooled or disappointed with market knockoffs. With everyone going nuts over all the latest fiberglass pool trends, folks have been clamoring to get a piece of the business. There are some fiberglass pool manufacturers claiming to have a beach entry design, but these designs begin with a step-down and are instead providing you with a tanning ledge or sloping tanning ledge. And while these designs have merit on their own, you don’t want to be misled. Many folks looking at beach entry or zero entry pool designs do so not only for the exquisiteness of the design but also for the ease of entry and accessibility. You may be disappointed if you are not expecting a step-down into the pool and, in the end, you have one. Be sure to review the fiberglass pool design closely and make sure you know what to expect. Setting clear expectations with your pool builder about how you want your finished pool to function is a must!
Swim space is limited. Since they are built in a factory-controlled environment and then transported to the job site, fiberglass pool designs have size limitations because of transportation. To create a beach entry pool design, we need to create a long, gradual entry, which takes up part of the overall swim space. In our Sandal Beach Entry design, the beach entry extends approximately 14’ out into the pool area at its longest point. In our Grace Beach Entry design, the beach entry extends approximately 15.5’ out into the pool area at its longest point. The remaining portion of the pool designs are dedicated to swim space. So if plentiful swimming space is a priority for you, take into account the limits of a beach entry.
Water run-off. A standard pool deck slopes away from the pool and descends typically ¼” per foot. This allows for rainwater and run-off to fall away from the pool and not towards the pool which aids in keeping away dirt and debris that may have found its way onto the deck and into the pool water. Because of what a beach entry or zero entry pool is, the pool deck on the entry portion will slope into the pool. Consequently, that area of the pool deck will allow for rainwater and run-off to enter the pool. For most, this won’t pose any problem. If you plan to have a lot of trees or landscaping around your pool area where debris will regularly fall onto the pool deck, then it may be something you consider and discuss with your pool builder. In this situation, a properly installed deck drain could be a good solution.
Backfill. Beach entry fiberglass pool models have an expansive and shallow lounging area that can be difficult for pool builders to pack and backfill properly. This difficulty is a problem for all fiberglass pool designs with large shallow lounging areas or tanning ledges. Ensuring your tanning ledge is properly backfilled and installed is important. The Backfill Eliminator is offered through Thursday Pools as a solution; however, it certainly isn’t the only one. We have seen a lot of pool builders who have their own method of backfilling these areas. Nonetheless, it is a topic that you will want to cover with your pool builder. Be sure to ask them about their technique.
Not ADAAG compliant. Not all beach entry pools are ADAAG compliant, meaning that they do not comply with the American Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines. So, while they may provide easier access for folks with a disability, they do not meet all required ADA Accessibility Guidelines. For more information on those guidelines, visit Access-Board.gov.

There’s a pool design out there for everyone, and each one has its merits, but what’s most important is that you choose a pool that best fits your family or personal lifestyle.

Swimming for Summer Weight Loss

Posted on July 11, 2019March 28, 2024 by krista

Get in Shape with a Thursday Pool: Swimming for Weight Loss

While running and biking can be great ways to lose pounds, the summer weather provides obstacles, often in the form of intense heat, that can be too strenuous (and dangerous) if you’re not properly equipped, stretched and hydrated. Swimming exercises are an excellent alternative to stay cool and shave off the pounds. In this post, we’ll discuss swimming for weight loss in your own fiberglass pool.

With a fiberglass pool, you can exercise in the comfort and convenience of your own private, personally customized space and control aspects of your workout that a facility doesn’t allow. For example, you are able to decide when you want to workout, for how long, how intense, and with how many breaks. Plus, it’s much easier to stay hydrated when you can simply retrieve a tall glass of water whenever you want.

Swimming for weight loss and exercising in a (Thursday Pools) fiberglass pool can be safer because the fiberglass coating is smooth (yet non-slip). While stretching or jogging in the pool, you don’t have to worry about the rough bottom (as in a gunite pool) irritating your feet. Whereas running and biking have the potential of injury from falling or pulling something, swimming is a very joint friendly workout.

Water exercises can be beneficial for people of all ages to lose weight at their own pace. With exercises as simple as stretching, you can help warm up your muscles and lose calories in the process. At a moderate pace of freestyle swimming, you can expect to burn 300 calories in 30 minutes.

One of the most common myths of swimming is that it is not effective because you cannot see the sweat, but in all actuality, swimming is a great choice to build muscle endurance and cardio—perfect for losing weight.

The speed of weight loss also depends on how experienced of a swimmer you are. A person who has a less fluid motion and has to concentrate to keep the technique together is more likely to lose weight faster than an experienced swimmer. Learning how to do different swim strokes can help you lose weight because being inexperienced in the technique makes your body work harder to perform the motion.

Drafting a plan to lose weight continuously gets more challenging as you become more experienced in the water and your cardio improves. Don’t give up! To stay motivated, create a buddy system with a neighbor and/or friend who is also trying to lose weight so that you have support and accountability.
Or why not make it a family activity? As for your swimming techniques, shorten your breaks, change strokes more frequently and increase the intensity (time per lap) to keep up the weight loss over time.

Start swimming in your fiberglass pool today! It’s the cool way lose weight.

The Best Thursday Pools Designs for Exercising in Your Pool

Posted on July 2, 2019May 15, 2024 by krista

Enjoy every aspect of your new fiberglass pool–including the health benefits of swimming!

The fiberglass pool lifestyle is … what’s the word we’re looking for? Oh yes. Spectacular.

With a fiberglass inground pool, there are marvelous parties to be thrown, plenty of reasons to unplug and spend time with the family and loads of excuses to drop that to-do list and just chillax in the sun. In addition to the joy of backyard summer living by your low-maintenance fiberglass pool, you’re sure to profit from all the health benefits of swimming. Water exercises and swimming have been proven to improve strength and flexibility, lower stress levels and blood pressure, aid in weight loss and increase energy levels. Plus, swimming is a good low impact exercise for those with certain injuries and conditions. If you’re ready to enjoy all the benefits of the fiberglass pool lifestyle, and get fit and fabulous at the same time, let’s check out the top Thursday Pools fiberglass pool designs for swimming and exercise!

Monolith. At 40 feet long, Monolith gives you the maximum possible space for both lap swimming and game-playing. There’s a wide-open swim lane for those who are on a mission to get their strokes in, and the 3’4” uniform-depth shallow-end is ideal for water games like basketball and volleyball. There’s ample room for everyone in the family to have fun and get fit at the same time.
Goliath. Goliath is available in three sizes: 16’ x 33’, 16’ x 37’ and 16’ x 41’. Get the biggest one your yard will accommodate to create the maximum area for fun and exercise. The wide-open swim space gives everyone plenty of room for lap swimming and playing water games. Dual corner entry steps in the shallow-end and dual deep-end benches with swim-outs make it easy for swimmers of all ages and abilities to get in and out of the pool and relax when the games are done!
Aspen. While Aspen’s huge, built-in tanning ledge might invite you to lounge, there’ll be plenty of time for that after your workout! So before you chill, you can get a great cardio session in your Aspen, whether it’s volleyball, basketball or a good, old-fashioned game of Marco Polo.
Lil Bob LX. Lil Bob LX is built for fun and games. At 13.5’ x 35.5’, with a uniform, 4’6” sport-bottom depth, Lil Bob LX is the ideal pool for the family that plays together. Whether you’re into water aerobics, or something more competitive, this fiberglass pool design will get everyone moving … even the youngest of swimmers! The 12” deep tanning ledge leads into an 18” deep wading area that’s perfect for toddlers just learning to safely enjoy the water.
Spirit. Our Spirit fiberglass pool design is 40’ long with a 4’6” uniform sport pool depth throughout. So, true to its name, the Spirit pool design encourages spirited games that will bring the whole family together. And the wrap-around bench seating throughout provides the perfect place for the cheering section on the sidelines!

Exercising in your new inground fiberglass pool can make your whole family happier and healthier while bringing everyone together. Whether you’re swimming laps and building up your strength, or teaching your kids how to land a dunk shot, your fiberglass pool will bring hours of fitness and fun.

6 Secrets to Creating Family Time with Your New Fiberglass Pool

Posted on June 27, 2019March 28, 2024 by krista

Family Time Swimming Pool | Creating Memories with your New Fiberglass Pool

Amidst a sea of obligations, families often struggle to find ways to spend more time together. And we all know that finding something that the whole family enjoys can be tough. Why not gather the family in the backyard around your new fiberglass pool? In this post, we will share some secrets that we have learned along the way that will help you create a fiberglass pool experience that’s perfect for each and every family member.

Family Pool Night. Mark one evening a week on your calendar as family pool night. Make this evening a priority all summer long. If you have to, consider limiting your kids or your own activities. When you make family pool time a priority, your kids will too. And what better way to demonstrate family first than to actually start putting family time first? Family pool night is spent by the pool, grilling out, swimming and enjoying a relaxing evening outdoors.
Tech-Free Pool Zone. Consider making the pool area an electronic free zone. Tech-free zones encourage conversations and interactions. With the rise in the use of technology among younger children, studies have shown that having tech-free zones in the home can improve relationships, increase reading and conversations, improve moods and allow time for self-reflection. We could all benefit from those! Be sure to keep one phone near the pool in case of an emergency.
Pool Chores. Make taking care of the pool a fun family routine. Working alongside each other helps establish teamwork among siblings, builds trust and teaches accountability. Allow children to take part in the effort by giving them chores that best suit their abilities and interests. Perhaps you have a daughter who is into science—she would be the ideal person to test the pool water. Another could skim off any floating debris or bugs (some kids love this job). Here are some other chores that could be part of the chore list: empty the skimmer basket(s), vacuum the pool, wipe down the scum line, etc. Together, you can power through your pool maintenance checklist while bonding over the experience. Remember, children should be supervised at all times and only age appropriate chores should be given.
Play Pool Games. Lose the board games, and play some pool games. Taking time to play together in the pool is about taking the time to laugh and splash together. These are the memories that will be cherished by all for a lifetime.
Host An Event. This little secret brings can really bring out the teamwork. Make it an event that everyone can be excited about by hosting the baseball team, youth group, a family reunion or the neighborhood block party. Give everyone an important role in preparing for the event. And make sure to plan ahead so you can all sit back, relax and enjoy your company on the day of the event.
Swim Together. It is amazing what you will learn about your kids when they don’t have their phones or video games in front of them. And despite whether or not you have decided to make the pool a tech-free zone, it is pretty difficult to be on the phone and in the water at the same time. Pick a perfect spot in the pool to chillax and take advantage of this time with your loved ones. You might be surprised about what you learn from each other’s day when distractions like mobile phones aren’t within arm’s reach.

We hope you try these six secrets to creating family time with your new fiberglass pool. Come back to our blog often for more ways you can enjoy the pool life.

Five Cool Swimming Pool Lifestyle Ideas

Posted on June 11, 2019April 3, 2024 by krista

Enhance your swimming pool area with these top outdoor summer living features

It’s hard to beat outdoor living. Food tastes better when it’s eaten outside, fresh off the grill. And there’s just nothing like the feeling of falling into bed at night, relaxed and tuckered out from spending a whole day in the sun. Once you have found the perfect fiberglass pool, you can add some features into that mix that will turn your outdoor living area into an over-the-top, backyard paradise you’ll never want to leave.

Where and how do you start creating your lifestyle around your inground pool? Awesome backyard living ideas abound on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram. Still, that can be a little overwhelming. So let’s narrow the possibilities with some great backyard living ideas that will enhance your swimming pool area and help make your backyard the perfect place for friends and family to hang out all summer long!

An outdoor kitchen. If you love to cook and entertain outdoors, a simple grill might not be enough. Adding an outdoor kitchen lets you cook your entire meal outside and chat with your guests while they enjoy the pool. Depending on how much space you have, think about adding a cooktop that has burners as well as a grill, ample counter space, and under-counter refrigeration alongside a bit of storage for utensils and plates. You’ll never have to miss any of the good times around your inground fiberglass pool.

A kickin’ sound system. What party is complete without a playlist? A little music can set the mood, reinforce your pool party’s theme and bring your swimming pool area to life. Outdoor speakers come in a variety of options and can be incorporated into your landscaping design. Keep in mind, most outdoor speakers on the market are weather-resistant, not weather-proof. Weather-resistant speakers are made to be mounted under a porch with some sort of protection. If amazing sound quality is important to you, reach out to a professional who can do an outdoor sound design for your backyard living space. The days of carrying a boombox around are gone. (Thank heavens because our backs can’t handle all that heavy lifting!) Pick up an inexpensive portable Bluetooth speaker, pair it with your smartphone, and get your poolside groove on.

A shade structure. When the sun is beating down on your backyard living area, it doesn’t matter how comfy your patio furniture is. It’s no fun to sit and sweat. Of course, it’s easy enough to jump in the pool and cool off (and you can always have your cake and eat it too by enjoying the sun and the water simultaneously on your tanning ledge or built-in beverage bench!) But the whole point of creating a backyard living area is that you can enjoy spending time both in the pool and around the pool. Having some type of shade structure over part of your pool area is a must-have. Shade helps shield non-swimming folks from the scorching sun and provides pool-goers with an opportunity to relax, dry off and reapply that all-important sunscreen. Consider a pergola or an awning. And if your structure will support it, you may want to consider adding a weather-resistant outdoor fan to up the cooling quotient and keep bugs at bay. If you can’t add a structure, at least add some landscaping that will offer shade without raining debris down into your pool and on top of your automatic pool cover.

An outdoor bathroom. When you have a swimming pool, it can make you cringe to watch wet people running in and out of your house, dripping water on your floors and carpet, to use the restroom. (Although it’s better than the alternative, if you know what we mean … ) You’ll also find that bugs like to hitch a ride inside every time the door opens and closes. If you have large enough pool house, consider adding a small bathroom in it to save your home from the dripping pool water. You can add a bit of your pool decor to make it fun, and keep towels and other necessities out there too.

An outdoor shower. An outdoor shower is another great way to enhance your backyard swimming pool area. A quick rinse to get rid of the chlorine or salt on your skin feels great before an al fresco dinner. Having a poolside shower so your guests can take a quick rinse before they swim will keep your swimming pool water healthier too. It will help eliminate body oils, lotions and hair products that can cause a scum line around your pool’s edge. And if you have swimmers coming to your pool straight from the lake, it’s doubly important that they rinse off before they hop in to avoid upsetting your pool water balance. Look for a solar-powered outdoor shower that warms the water for your guests’ comfort.

So, there you have them. Five cool ideas for enhancing your swimming pool area with outdoor summer living features that will help you, your family and your guests make the most out of your pool and every precious moment the swim season has to offer.

Five Fun and (Almost) Free Swimming Pool Games for Kids and Families

Posted on June 4, 2019March 28, 2024 by krista

Summer swim season is almost here! Are you ready to have a blast in your inground pool? Yeah you are. You enjoy soaking up rays on your awesome fiberglass pool tanning ledge, swimming laps to get fit and strong, and throwing epic beach-themed parties. Pools are made for games and fun. And, you can buy lots of pool accessories and toys. But, you don’t always have to spend money to have fun. Sometimes you can use what you already have, make up your own rules and play all day. However, you must always keep the rules of pool safety in mind! So, make sure all the games you’re dreaming up encourage safe play. Here are five ideas to get you started.

Duck races

Get some bathtub rubber duckies at the store. Divide your swimmers into teams and have them each choose a name for their team. Get out one duck per team, and write a team name on the bottom of each one. All players start at the same end of the pool. Drop the ducks in the water and yell “Go Duck Go!” The teams must move their duck to the other end of the pool without using their hands or touching the ducks in any way. They can splash or blow the ducks, or make waves in the water by swimming alongside them. The first team that makes it to the other end of the pool wins. (And, if the ducks get criss-crossed in the water from splashing and a team moves their opponents’ duck across the finish line, their opponents win!)

Water hunt

Remove the label from a clear, two-liter water or soda bottle that has a white, clear or blue cap. Fill it with pool water. Divide your swimmers into two teams and have them line up along opposite ends of the pool, facing away from the water. Throw the bottle into the center of the pool and yell, “Water hunt!” Both teams swim as quickly as they can to find the bottle, which is nearly invisible in the water. The first team to find the bottle wins.

Beach ball soccer

Divide your swimmers into two teams and have them face off in two lines in the center of the pool. Designate which end of the pool is each team’s goal line. Toss a beach ball into the center of the pool. Each team must move the ball towards their goal line without using their hands. So, they can use their noses, elbows, legs and feet. The first team to reach their goal wins.

Music video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_L__GAuSWE
Divide your swimmers into two teams. Have each of them choose their favorite song, and then have them water-choreograph it. Encourage your swimmers to use props and create impromptu costumes. Give a prize for the most creative music video. (And don’t forget to film it for posterity!)

Atomic whirlpool

This game is not a competition—it’s just fun! Line all your swimmers up along the edges of the pool, evenly spaced and facing the same direction. On your command, have them all start walking as fast as they can around the edge. Then, have them jog for another few minutes. When you yell, “Atomic whirlpool!” everyone should stop running. The current will carry them along. Then yell, “Reverse whirlpool!” Everyone should turn around and try to run against the current. They probably won’t be able to!

Get social!

Swimming pools bring families and friends together. So, no matter what games you play, you’re bound to have a summer of fun in the sun in your inground fiberglass pool. Have your kids created a fun pool game? Share it with other families on our Facebook page!

May Fiberglass Pool Dealer Spotlight: B&B Pools, Indianapolis

Posted on May 30, 2019May 15, 2024 by krista

Each month, we enjoy learning more about a member of the Thursday Pools fiberglass pool dealer family for our dealer spotlight. This month, we chatted with Bill McGraw, owner/operator of B&B Pools in Indianapolis.

B&B Pools is based on Indy’s south side. They install both fiberglass pools and vinyl liner pools throughout the greater Indianapolis area in Marion County, Hamilton County, Hancock County, Johnson County, Morgan County and Boone County.

Some of the communities in which they’ve built pools include: Indianapolis, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield, Carmel, Southport, Homecroft, Beech Grove, Martinsville, Mooresville, New Palestine, Franklin, Brownsburg, Avon and Plainfield.

Tell us a little about yourself and your business.

Well, we’re a pretty small operation. It’s just me, my son John, and our one other crew member, Quirino. Nobody can pronounce that, so we just call him Memo. The three of us do the pool installation, and we have a team of subs that do the concrete and electrical work.

This is my 40th season in the pool business, but I’ve been out on my own for seven years. My son, John, has been working next to me since he was 15 years old, so that’s 20 years now. I hope he’ll take over the business from me when I’m ready to sit down.

What do you love about being in the pool business?

I’ve always loved working outside. I like to build things. It’s what I do on my days off. I build things around the house. I’m a hands-on kind of guy, and I’m not really a salesman. I just like to do the work.

For me, it’s great to look at what I’ve done over the course of the day and say, “Man, that looks good.” I feel best when everybody’s happy.

What percentage of your business is vinyl vs. fiberglass inground pools?

It’s probably about 50/50. When people choose vinyl liners, I think it’s because they’re after a really big pool. When they choose fiberglass, I think it’s mostly because they like the low pool maintenance and those built-in features, like wide steps and tanning ledges.

Which Thursday Pools fiberglass pool designs and colors are the most popular among your pool buyers in the greater Indianapolis area?

Well, I know everybody says the Aspen. I do too. It’s just a great pool. It checks all the boxes. People love the steps and the tanning ledge. I also sell a lot of the Lil Box LX, for people who have smaller yards. It still has that great tanning ledge and the built-in benches are a big draw.

Several of my customers recently have chosen the Goliath for the swim lane. And last year, I installed the new freeform, Sun Day, which just looked great. In terms of color, it used to be mostly California and Maya, but now they have Graphite, which is a nice dark gray. That’s getting really popular around here.

What are the most popular add-on features in the fiberglass inground pools you’re installing right now?

People really like water features and specialty lighting, like Laminar, that they can control with their phones.

What do you think about Thursday Pools’ new beach entry fiberglass pool designs?

I really think they’re interesting (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). I haven’t installed one yet, but I did have a customer inquire about it.

What particular challenges do you face with fiberglass pool installations in your part of the country?

Honestly, I think we’re pretty lucky. Our soil is generally pretty good, and we don’t run into too many access issues like some of the other guys do in different areas. But every job is an adventure. So we just take it as it comes.

What’s the cost of an average pool installation for you, and what do you include as standard?

Our standard installation would be in the mid-50s. Some of our installs will go into the 60s. We include the pump, filter, heater, chlorinator, an APC automatic pool safety cover and handrails. Unless somebody asks for something else, I use Hayward brand equipment. We also include two lights and two fountains as standard in all our projects. Since I’m a small operation, I can keep my overhead pretty low. So, I can pass that savings onto my customers.

What have you noticed changing in pool buyers’ demographics over the years?

Most of our buyers are families in their 40s. They’re all different, but they’re all looking for ways to keep the kids home and get them to talk to each other. Grandparents are doing the same thing. Pools are a great way for families to spend some fun time together.

What works for you in terms of marketing?

We don’t advertise at all. We get all our leads through word-of-mouth and our website. Thursday Pools helped me get my website up and running when I first got into the business.

I used to have all kinds of pamphlets and brochures around to give people, but I’ve found that I don’t really need those anymore. Everybody does a lot of research online, and they pretty much know what they want before they even talk to me.

What are your thoughts on Thursday Pools?

Thursday Pools has been great to me. Like I said, they helped me get my start in the business. And they still help me whenever I need it. They make a great product, and they make my life easier. I like working with the best, and I think Thursday Pools makes the best quality fiberglass pools.

What’s the secret to B&B Pools’ success?

I think people like us because we’re small. We do one pool at a time, and the pool buyers deal directly with me. They like being able to call the owner on his cell anytime if they have a question about their pool. I’m dealing with my customers on a one-on-one basis. There are no project managers.

And I think the secret to success is pretty simple: You just do what you say you’re going to do. Then, your customers are happy, and they’ll tell all their friends about you.

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.

Environmentally Friendly Pools: Why Fiberglass Leaves Behind the Smallest Footprint

Posted on May 28, 2019June 16, 2025 by krista

Today, pool buyers are increasingly more eco-conscious and ask questions like, “Can a pool be environmentally friendly?” and “What is the most eco-friendly pool type?” Traditionally, swimming pools have not been very sustainable. However, advancements have made it possible to reduce their environmental impact. Still, some types of inground pools have a greater environmental impact than others. Fiberglass pools are often considered the most environmentally friendly pools for their long-term durability and lower energy and chemical use. Even the manufacturer can make a difference.

The Role of Long-Term Durability

The long-term durability of fiberglass pools makes them more sustainable by significantly reducing the need for repairs and replacements, which have considerable environmental consequences. Vinyl liners, for example, typically require replacement every five to ten years, contributing to landfill waste. Additionally, vinyl-liner pools’ foundational steel panels can rust and leach chemicals into the groundwater, harming the environment. Gunite pools reinforced with steel mesh or rebar also present risks as they can corrode over time, leaching chemicals and rust. Maintaining gunite pools requires acid washing, which can also release hazardous substances into the ecosystem.

Concrete and vinyl-liner pools also have inherent environmental drawbacks due to the high carbon footprint of cement production and the petrochemical use in vinyl-liner manufacturing, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. Fiberglass pools’ durable, seamless shells do not require resurfacing or frequent repairs. They don’t contain metals that rust or leach harmful chemicals and have a much lower environmental impact throughout their lifecycle.

Chemical Use and the Saltwater Consideration

Is it possible to have a chemical-free pool? The answer is, unfortunately, no. All pool types require chemicals to keep water healthy and safe for swimmers throughout the pool’s life, and these chemicals inevitably end up back in the environment. However, fiberglass pools typically require less chemical usage than other types. So, while you can’t avoid chemicals entirely and have a chemical-free swimming pool, you can lessen your usage by investing in a pool type that requires fewer chemicals overall.

What about saltwater systems? It’s a common misconception that saltwater pools (pools that use a salt generator) are a means to avoid chlorine and, therefore, would be a no-chemical option. However, salt generators convert the salt into chlorine to keep the pool clean. While there is less chlorine than a traditional chlorine system, chlorine is still present with this option, so we can’t consider it chemical-free.

Lower Energy and Water Usage

Significant energy is required to power heaters, which are essential in many regions, especially in cooler climates where maintaining a comfortable water temperature is necessary. However, fiberglass pools are naturally more energy-efficient than other pool types due to their insulating properties. The material helps retain heat more effectively, reducing the need for prolonged use of heaters. This energy conservation is particularly beneficial for minimizing emissions using traditional electric or gas heaters.

Filling a swimming pool requires substantial water, which can strain local water supplies, particularly in areas prone to drought or water shortages. Fiberglass pools have a lower evaporation rate due to their smooth, non-porous surface and natural insulation, which helps maintain a stable water temperature. Fiberglass pools also conserve water by maintaining a steady water level year-round. Unlike other pool types that may need partial or complete draining to protect the structure during freezing temperatures, fiberglass pools keep water at the skimmer level for winterization.

The Eco-Conscious Manufacturer Difference

Choosing from a manufacturer with environmental certifications, such as ISO 14001, can help you make a more eco-friendly pool choice. ISO 14001 is the international standard specifying requirements for businesses to create an effective environmental management system (EMS). Companies can use this framework to develop the best environmental stewardship practices.

As an eco-conscious manufacturer, Thursday Pools maintains ISO 14001 certification and has implemented the following measures:

Thursday Pools sources the finest and most environmentally friendly raw materials. We have partnered with Owens Corning and exclusively use Advantex® E-CR fiberglass, known for its eco-friendly properties. Produced in North America, this fiberglass is Boron-free, contributing to a lower environmental impact. Furthermore, fiberglass manufacturing and shipping of Advantex® E-CR fiberglass require less energy than traditional fiberglass materials, making it a more sustainable choice overall.

We actively collaborate with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) to uphold a Title V air permit that minimizes environmental impact. As part of this commitment, Thursday Pools uses only Low HAP (Hazardous Air Pollutants) gel coats and resins in our manufacturing processes, significantly reducing the emission of harmful substances. Additionally, we employ Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) release agents and solvents to limit environmental exposure further. Thursday Pools uses advanced control equipment to eliminate the generation of all PM (Particulate Matter).

Our Minimal Waste Program at Thursday Pools emphasizes sustainable manufacturing practices to minimize the generation of particulate matter (PM) and VOCs. We exclusively use non-atomizing resin spray, which significantly reduces emissions and waste. We also keep all equipment pumps operating at low pressure to limit VOC release further. Additionally, we apply solvents and release agents using HVLP (High Volume, Low Pressure) spray guns to significantly reduce overspray, resulting in lower emissions of VOCs.

Our Recycling Program at Thursday Pools is a company-wide initiative to reduce waste and promote environmental responsibility. As part of this program, we recycle various types of production waste, including light bulbs and batteries, ensuring these materials are properly disposed of and reused whenever possible.

Thursday Pools focuses on commitment to continuous improvement through our environmental and workplace practices. This dedication involves continually reviewing and measuring both current and future processes to assess and mitigate their environmental impact. We proactively seek ways to reduce our environmental footprint, striving to implement new and improved methods that promote sustainability. Additionally, we prioritize creating a safer and healthier work environment for our employees so that our commitment to continuous improvement benefits our team and the planet.

Choose the More Environmentally Friendly Pool

When purchasing sustainable products is important to you, making an informed decision about the materials and manufacturers you choose becomes even more critical. Thursday Pools is passionate about combining innovative design with environmental stewardship to make your pool investment a source of joy and a choice you can feel good about for years to come. Consult a dealer to explore how you can bring your vision to life with a fiberglass pool that leaves the smallest footprint possible.

THE THURSDAY POOLS TRIFECTA

Posted on May 22, 2019October 24, 2024 by krista

Multiple layers of strength create an incredibly durable composite pool.

There’s nothing quite like a really great artisan-crafted sandwich, layered with quality ingredients. Every ingredient has a purpose and makes the end result better. It’s stacked just right from one end to the other. Sounds fabulous, right? You know what else is fabulous? A new fiberglass pool with a shell that’s hand-crafted like our sandwich example.

Let’s take a look at how we do it.

Gathering the best ingredients

Thursday Pools was one of the first ISO 9001-certified manufacturers in North America. This means we have completed a rigorous certification process in which we’ve agreed to meet strict international quality standards related to both raw materials and production methods.

Thursday Pools worked closely with the PINKTANK™ at Owens Corning to assess our pool shells’ structural needs. Their high-quality fiberglass is sourced exclusively in North America and undergoes rigorous quality assurance tests to comply with stringent ISO 9001 manufacturing standards.

The 1-2-3 Trifecta of Strength

First, we create a mold to ensure consistent shape and dimensions. Once molded, a pool visits the gel station, where the top gel coat of the pool’s surface is applied. During this process, we constantly check the gel coat’s thickness to ensure it meets our high-quality standards. Once the gel coat is complete, a vinyl ester barrier coat is applied.

Next, we begin applying layers of strength. Between the honeycomb core of tubular supports and the outermost surface’s high-quality gel coat, every part of each pool by Thursday Pools features multiple layers of strength, including a combination of chopped fiberglass, hand-laid woven roving fiberglass, and a vinyl ester resin barrier coat.

Some higher stress points require more layers than others. We’ve assessed precisely how many layers of strength are needed at each point of the pool, formulating three laminate schedules to efficiently build pools according to each area’s structural needs.

Schedule 1, which consists of nine layers, is used for all horizontal surfaces above the floor. ISchedule 1, which consists of nine layers, is used for all horizontal surfaces above the floor. It also reinforces the walls with 6-inch-wide, 3-foot-tall strips approximately every 2.5 feet around the pool.

Schedule 2, also nine layers, is used for all higher-stress areas. The corners of steps, swim outs, tanning ledges, sun shelves, and benches are all reinforced with custom stitch mats, while an 18-inch-wide strip of woven rolling fiberglass runs along the floor’s inside perimeter and up the wall for extra strength where the floor and walls meet.

Schedule 3 is eight layers and is used in all areas that don’t require extra reinforcement, such as the floor (except the inside perimeter) and between the 6-inch-wide vertical strips on the walls.

What does all this mean to pool buyers?

It means you can be sure of your investment. You can trust you’ll receive an artisan-crafted fiberglass pool and will spend many years creating lasting memories with friends and family.

May Fiberglass Pool Dealer Spotlight: Pool People, Lancaster, Ohio

Posted on May 17, 2019March 28, 2024 by krista

Each month, we enjoy learning more about a member of the Thursday Pools fiberglass pool dealer family for our dealer spotlight. In March, we chatted with Dan Dodds and Jarrod Dodds, the father and son duo who operate The Pool People of Ohio, along with Dan’s brothers, Pat and Jay to hear what they had to say about inground pools in Columbus, Ohio.

Located 30 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio, The Pool People of Ohio serve communities south and east of Columbus, including: Lithopolis, Carroll, Logan, Circleville, Amanda, Baltimore, Pickerington and Canal Winchester.

Tell us a little about yourself and your business.

My [Dan’s] dad, Thomas Dodds, started this business in 1952. At the time, it was a remodeling and construction business. I joined the business in 1980. Dad and I went to a remodeling show where we ran into some people from Imperial Pools out of New York. They manufacture vinyl pools. It seemed like getting into inground pools in Columbus, Ohio, might be the next logical step for us to expand our business. And, it turned out to be a great decision.

Our business is truly a family affair, with both of my brothers, son Jarrod, and daughter Hannah all involved. Jay, Jarrod, Hannah and I operate the pool business, while Pat runs the home improvement division.

What do you love about being in the pool business?

This business is fun. It’s different every day. For most people, getting a pool is the fulfillment of a lifetime dream. It never gets old to see how excited the kids are about getting their new pool.

Which Thursday Pools fiberglass designs and colors are the most popular among your inground pools in Columbus, Ohio?

Like a lot of other Thursday Pools dealers, our biggest seller is the Aspen, followed closely by the Goliath. I really like the Aspen–they thought of everything with that design. As far as fiberglass pool colors go, for us, it’s mostly California and Maya.

What are the most popular add-on features in the fiberglass inground pools you’re installing right now?

The Backfill Eliminator® is fantastic, and that’s standard in any of our installations that have a tanning ledge. Many of our pools are salt water systems these days, and I’d say about 40% of our pools include an automatic pool safety cover.

What do you think about Thursday Pools’ new beach entry fiberglass pool designs?

I think they’re cool… kind of like an Aspen with a twist. We’ve had a couple of customers interested in them, but we haven’t sold any yet.

What do you think about the new Thursday Pools’ sunken living room designs?

It’s an interesting idea. I think older folks might like them, who are looking for pools to socialize in. I do think families with younger kids will probably opt for pools with more swim space. We’re curious to see where these go, but I will say, Thursday Pools really comes up with some innovations!

What particular challenges do you face with fiberglass pool installations in your part of the country?

Well, we have pretty good soil here … not much rock like other places have, except when we get a little farther south. Permitting issues aren’t too bad either. So, all in all, I guess we’re pretty lucky.

Most of our installations are done on land with existing homes, and I’m not going to take the job if I’m not sure I can get a fiberglass pool shell in there. I’ve seen it done, but I’m not going to use a crane!

What’s the cost of an average pool installation for you, and what do you include as standard?

Our standard installation runs between $50,000-$70,000. That includes the pool installed, with standard equipment–heater, high-efficiency pump and lights. We offer customized deck packages, and everything else is a la carte so people can get exactly what they want.

What have you noticed changing in pool buyers’ demographics over the years?

Pool buyers come in all shapes and sizes. It’s young families with kids, young married couples who don’t have kids yet, and grandparents who want a fun place for the whole family to be. One thing is for sure … as far as vinyl versus fiberglass goes, more and more people are asking for fiberglass pools every year.

What works for you in terms of marketing?

Our customers sell our pools for us. I don’t even go to a customer’s house until the pool is essentially sold with a deposit often made. Early on, I can see what I need to see about the customer’s property on Google Earth. When you submit an inquiry for a quote on our website, you’ll get a list of names of our previous customers, and we’ll ask you to contact at least five of them to tell you about how much they like their pools. By the time you’re done talking to them, you’re ready to buy your pool from us. Period. Everytime I collect for a job, I say, “You’re on our reference list right? It’s okay for people to call you?” And they say, “Yeah! I want to tell people about my pool. I love it.” When we sell a new pool, I ask them which customer had the biggest impact on your decision to buy? And then I send that person a gift card.

Here’s the thing … communication is key. By the time I’m collecting for a job, I already know these people are happy. Because I’ve been in constant communication with them throughout the process. It heads off any potential problems.

What are your thoughts on Thursday Pools?

Well, first of all, the quality of their pools … there’s nothing better. And talking to these guys is like talking to your best friend. They’ve grown so much over these last couple of years–just seeing how many more dealers are at the dealer conference every year is crazy. It’s quadrupled from the old days. Their whole team is great to work with. And we’re all about their slide-off delivery. It makes our lives easy, and it protects people’s pool shells.

What’s the secret to The Pool Peoples’ success?

I think our whole philosophy goes back to my dad. He always told me, “You make your reputation every day.” So I keep that in mind in everything we do. We take care of our employees first. Some of these employees have been here longer than Jarrod’s been alive. Our greenest installer has been here six years. We’re a family.

About The Pool People of Ohio

The Pool People of Ohio sells both vinyl and fiberglass inground pools throughout central Ohio. In addition to their pool business, the Dodds family also own Dodds Family Living Center, Inc., which offers building and remodeling services. They offer a full range of pool maintenance chemicals, automatic pool cleaners, spa products and equipment and replacement parts in their store.