Fiberglass Pools Archives - Page 7 of 14

Ask the General: Cartridge Filters vs. Sand Filters; Which is Best for Your Pool?

Posted on May 8, 2019July 15, 2026 by krista

Dear General-

We’re getting a new fiberglass pool this summer! We’ve chosen our fiberglass pool design and our add-on features. Now, we’re wondering what kind of filtration system we should get. We’ve heard pros and cons about both cartridge filtration systems and sand filtration systems. We want what’s best for our pool long-term, but of course we’re excited about low pool maintenance too. What guidance can you give us?

Signed- Figuring out filtration in Fairfield

Dear Figuring in Fairfield-

Great question! If you’re a regular reader of my articles, you’ve heard me talk about sand filtration already. Cartridge filters are great too. There’s no one system that’s superior to the other, and I’ve used both over the years. But, let’s see if we can filter through some more details and help you choose what’s best for you.

Let’s first take a look at how they work.

Sand filters

Sand filters work quite simply by pushing your pool water through sand that catches the dirt and debris and returns clean water into the pool. You clean your sand filter by backwashing it. This means running water backwards through the filter until the filter is clean. Sand filters are a pretty popular option for residential inground pools.

Sand filter maintenance

Sand filters require very little maintenance, other than the aforementioned backwashing. You’ll need to replace the sand every 2-4 years, depending on how often you use your pool.

Cartridge filters

Cartridge filters have a single layer of filter media made of synthetic fabrics attached in pleats to a cylindrical core. Water is pumped through the filter and passes through the cartridge, trapping dirt and debris in the fabric. Some spas and above-ground pools have a cartridge incorporated in the skimmer. You’ll need to make sure you’ve chosen the appropriately sized filter for your pool.

Cartridge filter maintenance

Cartridge filters must be manually removed to be cleaned. When the filter gauge increases 8 to 10 psi over normal (or, your water flow is visibly reduced), it’s time to clean them. It’s a great idea to keep an extra set of cartridge filters handy, so that you can swap them out when one set is being cleaned. However, with each cleaning, you’ll only recover about 60 percent efficacy. So, after three or four cleanings, you’ll probably have to buy new filters. However, cartridge filters cut energy costs because they require less pump pressure.

Which filtration system is best for you? It depends.

How important is water clarity?

Both systems will give you clear water. But for the absolute best water clarity, cartridge filters win.

Cartridge filters typically screen out twice as much dirt and debris as sand filters do. A cartridge filter takes out so fine a particle that your water actually glistens. It can really be witnessed at night when your pool lights are on. That little foggy halo of tiny particles that the light displays is greatly reduced.

Where do you live?

For areas that tend to be debris-heavy, sand filters are your best bet.

For example, I live in an established neighborhood with very little dirt and debris floating around in the air. Therefore, I enjoyed the cartridge system and only cleaned the filters once a season, when I closed the pool for the winter. The filters lasted about four years, but were expensive to replace. However, my daughter lives in the country, and her pool is surrounded by corn, and soybean fields. The dust and pollen factors are very high, especially when the fields are freshly plowed or harvested. She had a devil of a time with her cartridge system because she needed to clean it out so often. It’s time-consuming to take a filter apart, soak it and put it back together. And the more often you clean it, the more often it will need to be replaced. We changed her to a sand filter, and it was smooth sailing from there! And obviously, if you’re planning an indoor pool, cartridge filters are absolutely your best bet.

Ask the pros

You can always consult with your pool professional for advice on what type of pool filtration system will work best for the area you live in and how you plan to use and care for your pool. They can also make recommendations about manufacturers. No matter which system you choose, you’ll love the durability and low-maintenance that a fiberglass pool offers. Happy swimming!

Until next time- The General

Thursday Pools Makes News with Four Trailblazing Fiberglass Pool Innovations

Posted on May 2, 2019August 7, 2026 by krista

Indiana fiberglass pool manufacturer, Thursday Pools, is relentlessly dedicated to improving the fiberglass pool experience and creating the best fiberglass pools. Thursday Pools is never satisfied with the status quo when it comes to pool innovations. They’re like mad scientists on a mission to create ways to simplify installation, protect pool owners’ investments and offer previously unheard-of fiberglass inground pool experiences. They’re invited to fiberglass pool conferences around the country to speak about their “intent to invent.” And, they’ll soon garner national attention as they’re featured on the television show, “Success Files with Rob Lowe,” a show that highlights trailblazers in every industry.

First of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

The Beach Entry (Zero Entry) Fiberglass Pool (Utility Pool Body US Patent No. 10,358,837 Utility Pool System US Patent 10,472, 839)

Thursday Pools introduced the beach entry fiberglass pool in 2018. And their two designs, Grace Beach Entry and Sandal Beach Entry are now available to order. Like the sunken living room, the beach entry feature was previously only available in upscale resorts and custom private home installations. Now, fiberglass pool owners can have the experience of a day at the beach in their own backyards.

“In just a few weeks, we’ll be installing our first one–the freeform Sandal. These customers knew they wanted this pool before we could even order it, and they were willing to wait for it. It will be unlike anything anyone in their neighborhood has ever seen. The beach entry pools allow us to offer something other pool builders can’t. They’re great for older people and for pets, because they’re easy in and out.” – David Burton, Burton Pools and Spas in Springdale, Arkansas

Second of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

The Lucky 7 Skimmer®

Good pool maintenance is key to protecting the investment in a new fiberglass pool. Skimmers are an important part of keeping a pool clean because they keep debris from clogging the pump and allow water to circulate freely. Until Thursday Pools invented the Lucky 7 Skimmer, pool installers struggled to fit traditional skimmers against the sloped walls of a fiberglass pool. Typically, they used extension collars to get the skimmer to sit flush with the wall, which created a less polished look and didn’t allow the skimmer to function as well as it could. The Lucky 7 Skimmer is the first skimmer designed explicitly for fiberglass pools, and it’s compatible with any fiberglass pool brand.

“We use the Lucky 7 Skimmer on every pool we install. Because these skimmers take less time to install, they save pool buyers money on installation. They work better too, because they sit at the right angle for the slope of a fiberglass pool wall. And they look great—the mounting plate comes out farther and covers all the raw fiberglass.” – Doug Thoele, W.E.T. Pools and Spas in Effingham, Illinois

Third of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

The Backfill Eliminator®

Built-in tanning ledges are one of the most highly sought-after features in fiberglass pools today. They traditionally presented a challenge for both fiberglass pool owners and installers, as the shallow area underneath the tanning ledge can feel hollow underfoot if it’s not properly backfilled. Thursday Pools solved that issue by creating the Backfill Eliminator, an integrated tanning ledge support structure comprised of an extra thick honeycomb core and support pillars that ensure your built-in tanning ledge will last a lifetime.

“We’re 100 percent committed to Thursday Pools. The fact that they’re ISO 9001 certified means that they have a checks and balances system for maintaining quality that no one else has. I’m having pools shipped from almost 700 miles away. I could save some money on shipping by getting them from somewhere closer. I’m not going to do that. It makes my cost higher, but it’s worth it.” – Jason Cherry, Cherry Pools in Broken Arrow Oklahoma

What’s Next?

Who knows? The innovative team at Thursday Pools never stops. Follow Thursday Pools on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or Pinterest to be the first to know what they’re up to. And, if you’re ready to take the plunge with the industry’s best fiberglass pool, get a FREE estimate today.

Fiberglass Pool Durability and More Reasons to Choose Fiberglass

Posted on April 25, 2019July 15, 2026 by krista

First, congratulations on deciding to look into a fiberglass pool! More and more families are going this route. A swimming pool is great for making memories and fantastic for exercise, socializing, and relaxation. It can also increase the resale value of your home. Whether or not you are planning on selling your home, most homeowners ask at some point before buying, How long does a fiberglass pool last?” In this post, we’ll answer that and give you even more reasons pool buyers choose a fiberglass pool, starting with reason one: fiberglass pool durability.

Reason 1: Fiberglass is arguably the most durable of pool types.

With proper maintenance, fiberglass pools have been known to have a lifespan of 50 years or more. Fiberglass manufacturers craft the shell in multiple layers, with each layer serving to maximize the strength and durability of the entire structure. The layers help the fiberglass withstand weather conditions while retaining flexibility and resisting cracking. Unlike vinyl liner pools that need regular liner replacements or gunite pools that require acid washing and replastering, fiberglass pools can remain in service without major repair for several decades.

Reason 2: Fiberglass is accepted as the lowest to maintain among pool types.

Part of what makes fiberglass pools so durable also makes them lower maintenance. Compared to traditional vinyl liner and concrete pools, the non-abrasive and non-porous fiberglass pool surface inhibits algae growth. Their algae resistance alone saves time scrubbing and reduces the chemicals needed to maintain the pool.

Reason 3: Fiberglass pools install quickly.

Vinyl and gunite pools are built from scratch in your backyard. The on-site build means they’re subject to the elements during construction. And if it rains for the whole week, you’ll have to wait until Mother Nature allows construction to continue. Fiberglass pools are constructed in a factory-controlled environment and brought to your home in one piece. Building indoors means tighter quality control and makes fiberglass pools easier and quicker to install because the project is much less dependent on the weather. Fiberglass pool projects are often completed from start to finish in three weeks or less, so your family can be in for the swim before you know it!

Reason 4: Fiberglass pools have high-end features built into their designs.

Fiberglass pool designs include some of the hottest trends in inground pool projects. Many pool owners desire built-in tanning ledges, wrap-around benches, swim-outs, and in-pool steps or beach entries. Instead of being an add-on cost, these features are already part of many fiberglass pool designs. Previously only available in high-end (expensive), custom gunite pools, fiberglass pool owners also have the option to purchase a patented beach entry (zero entry) fiberglass pool for a backyard staycation paradise (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839).

Reason 5: Fiberglass pools have smooth, non-slip surfaces.

Wherever you sit or walk on a fiberglass pool is a fantastic combination of non-skid and super smooth gelcoat. It’s safe for entering and exiting and is easy on your feet and swimsuits. While gunite pools offer a non-slip surface, the rough texture can be uncomfortable on feet and tend to snag on swimwear. Despite the textured surface, gunite pools can also become slippery as they are prone to algae growth. Vinyl liner pools face similar issues with algae, becoming slick and posing safety concerns. Additionally, vinyl liners can develop wrinkles over time, creating uneven spots that may present potential tripping hazards.

Reason 6: Fiberglass pools are pet-friendly.

Another durability-related factor is the strength of a fiberglass pool’s finish, and its multiple entry and exit points make it pet-friendly. With vinyl pools, you have to be conscious about your dog’s toenails potentially tearing a hole in the liner, but the surface of a fiberglass pool is durable enough to resist any scratches from toenails. Gunite pools can be as rough on paws as they are on feet and swimsuits. Additionally, all those highly sought-after built-in fiberglass pool features, like tanning ledges, zero-entry, and swim-outs, make it easy for pets to enter and exit the pool. So, if sharing your new pool with the four-legged members of your family is important to you, fiberglass may be the right choice for you.

Reason 7: Fiberglass pools have many design options.

Fiberglass pools are available in many shapes, sizes, and colors. They easily complement any backyard design, whether it’s sleek and modern, free-flowing, laid-back, or anything in between. Fiberglass pools come in small, medium, and large sizes to accommodate different yard sizes. Plus, with a variety of color options, pool owners can create the mood that best matches their aesthetic. Simply put, a fiberglass pool enhances your home’s value and provides a stunning backdrop for countless days and nights of fun and entertainment.

Are You Feeling Inspired?

Why not keep it going with our pool idea book, or you may want to explore our fiberglass pool designs? Ready for some advice from an expert? Let us put you in contact with a dealer to get all your questions answered.

The Top 5 Things to Consider When Choosing A Fiberglass Pool Design

Posted on March 18, 2019July 15, 2026 by krista

If you’re looking ahead to summer, that probably means you’re trying to decide if a beach vacation is in the cards for you this year. Instead, you might want to consider the fun, luxury, and convenience of a new inground pool. It’s the perfect alternative and will bring that vacation home to your backyard, year in and year out. For sheer flexibility, quality, beauty, and value, it’s tough to beat an inground fiberglass pool. Durable and easy to maintain, they’re available in a fantastic variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and with ultra-cool new innovations like the beach entry or zero-entry option (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). Here are the top five things to consider when you’re choosing the best fiberglass pool design:

Soak or swim (or both)? How will you use your pool? Do you see yourself and your friends and family soaking up the sun and relaxing in your new swimming pool? Or are you interested in using your new pool for exercise? Or do you prefer some combination of both? There is a fiberglass pool design available. However, you decide to take the plunge.
To cover or not to cover? If you have young children in the house or lots of young children in the neighborhood, an automatic pool safety cover can literally be a lifesaver. They’ll also save you time and money with pool maintenance, as they keep debris out of your pool and reduce chemical loss.
Diving board or slide? Do you want kid-friendly features such as a slide or a diving board? If so, keep in mind that both slides and diving boards have specific safety requirements that the pool design must meet. If one or both of these accessories are important to you, then be sure to speak with your dealer about ensuring the best fiberglass pool design that meets the requirements of the manufacturer of the slide and/or diving board.
Touch or tread? The depth of any pool design is important to consider when you’re choosing your new fiberglass pool. Do you want to be able to touch the bottom anywhere in the pool? Or do you want to be able to tread water? Perhaps you want a little of both. When deciding, remember, we’re talking about the pool’s depth–not the water depth. Your actual water depth will typically be four to six inches below the specified pool depth, depending on a number of factors your pool builder will work out with you.
Space or size? Take a look at the space you have in your backyard. You want to be sure that you consider the size for the best fiberglass pool design that will be a good fit in your space. Remember, you don’t have to (and probably shouldn’t) get the biggest pool your yard will fit. Think about what else you want to be able to do in your new backyard oasis. Leave room for plenty of decking, ample grass, and some landscaping. And if you’re thinking of adding other amenities, like a water feature, pergola, or outdoor kitchen down the line, ask your pool builder to propose a design that ensures you’ll have room for those later.

Ask the General: What Do I Need to Know About Groundwater in the Spring?

Posted on March 15, 2019July 15, 2026 by krista

Dear General;

Our family got a new inground pool last summer, and our pool installer told us that we need to keep an eye on our groundwater pressure and levels in the springtime. What advice can you give us pool owner newbies about springtime pool maintenance, and what do I need to know about the possibility of groundwater damaging our pool in the spring?

Signed; Waiting for Spring in Walnut Ridge

Dear Waiting;

Your pool installer is correct. There IS quite a lot to think about in the spring, and the risks from excess groundwater pressure should be top-of-mind as we get ready to open our pools for the season.

When your pool was installed, your pool builder probably explained all about groundwater pressure and how their installation process was intended to protect your pool from it (along with a host of other forgotten tips). No one really expects pool owners to memorize every detail about their pools. So, I’m glad you asked about groundwater and spring pool maintenance. Here’s what you need to know:

Groundwater pressure is no joke.

I can’t stress this enough. Spring showers, coupled with thawing snow, saturate the ground around your pool. Your pool is probably backfilled with pea gravel, crushed gravel or sand. The backfill creates a natural place for groundwater to migrate and accumulate. Groundwater pressure is no joke.

On vinyl liner pools: Your liner can float. This is a very bad thing and will be an expensive fix. Your pool builder will have to drain the pool, control the surface water, fix any pool base that has washed out, reset the liner and then refill your pool, which means you’ll have to start over with water stabilization and treatment. To add insult to injury, this process can only take place when it’s warm enough to get the liner reset which means you’ll lose swim time. Another problem is that liners that float will develop wrinkles that may never go away, and you’ll have to choose between buying a new liner or living with the wrinkles.
On fiberglass pools and concrete pools: The force of excess groundwater can cause cracks in your pool walls. In extreme cases, such as flooding in the spring, both fiberglass pools and gunite (concrete) pools could potentially pop out of the ground, particularly if the water level is very low or the pool has been drained.

How your pool was installed and what your groundwater alleviation plan is.

To balance the pressure of groundwater as you’re taking off your cover and getting ready to open your pool for the spring, there are several systems pool builders use:

A sump pit. In my installing days, we always put a sump pit next to the pool (usually in the deck with a skimmer lid). This allowed a way to visually inspect and pump out any groundwater that had accumulated around the pool.
A wellpoint (also known as a driven point) system. Wellpoint systems consist of a series of small diameter wells that are connected by a header pipe to a wellpoint pump.
A pipe around the pool. Some installers will simply run a pipe from the over dig around the pool to a remote sump pit.

No matter what groundwater alleviation system your pool has, it’s important that you understand it and know what to look for and how to remedy groundwater pressure on your pool.

What’s under the cover.

Hopefully, you’ve kept an eye on your cover and the water level underneath it all winter. Now, it’s time to see what’s going on under there. Whether you have a standard winter cover or an automatic pool safety cover, your first step is to pump off the standing water. While you’re doing this, you need to add water to the pool to ensure that your water level is high enough to counteract groundwater pressure.

So, what have we learned? If you said, “Groundwater is no joke,” you win the grand prize. It’s physics. Groundwater pressure is a pretty basic concept. All the water has to go somewhere. So, take a minute now to go out to your pool and check your water level under your winter cover. You’ll save yourself time and money by keeping groundwater pressure at bay.

Until next time; The General

About the General

The General is our guest blogger. He speaks from years of pool building experience and shares his expertise with our readers monthly. He’s also a great storyteller and really fun at a party.

February Fiberglass Pool Dealer Spotlight: Burton Pools and Spas, Springdale, Arkansas

Posted on March 11, 2019August 13, 2026 by krista

Every month, we chat with Thursday Pools dealers to learn more about their business and what’s trending in their area. This month, we talked to David Burton, co-owner of Burton Pools and Spas in Springdale, Arkansas.

Tell us a little about yourself and about Burton Pools and Spas

My brother Dan and I started our business in 1978. At the time, I was 22, working at Kroger and at the fire station. But while all the other guys I knew were sitting around the fire station reading magazines, I was looking for a business opportunity. I knew I wanted to own my own business. My brother was working construction. Somebody sent me an article about the pool business, and I thought, “Yeah. This is something we could do.” It made a lot of sense to me. Gas prices were high, and people were looking to entertain themselves at home.

So we created a business called Tallman Pools of Fort Smith. We started out in my garage with a truck, a couple of tools and $7000 in working capital, installing vinyl pools. Dan did all the pool construction, and I took care of the business end of things. Since Dan and I married sisters, you could say we had a lot in common and worked together pretty well.

Shortly after we started the business, we incorporated under the name Burton Construction. One year later, we had nearly tripled our numbers. By 1981, we had grown to the point where we needed a retail space. And by 1993, we had a second location. Today, we have 95 employees. Our business includes selling and installing vinyl liner pools, fiberglass pools and hot tubs, and retailing outdoor living fixtures, furniture, and equipment, including Big Green Egg grills. We also do weekly pool and spa maintenance, as well as all types of repair for vinyl liner, gunite and fiberglass pools.

Dan’s gone now. He passed away from cancer in 2010. But my son Caleb is my partner now. He’s co-owner of the business. He does all the marketing and social media, and I do a little bit of everything. Mostly, I look at ways we can go about getting new business and new markets we can get into. He’s really running the show these days, and that’s fine by me.

What geographic areas do you serve?

Our locations are in Springdale and Fort Smith, Arizona, but we serve cities and towns throughout Arkansas, Oklahoma and Missouri.

What do you love about being in the pool business?

Oh man, I love how pools bring families together. Pools make things fun. They help you make memories and get you pictures you can hang on your fridge and share with your friends.

What Thursday Pools fiberglass pool designs and colors are the most popular among pool buyers in the areas you serve?

Like most dealers, our biggest seller is the Aspen. It’s just a homerun of a pool. It’s one of the best buys Thursday Pools has–it’s a great pool for the money. People love that huge tanning ledge.

In terms of shapes, for a while it seemed like everyone wanted freeforms and unusual pool shapes. Now, it seems like everyone is back to rectangles. They like straight, clean lines, in their pools, in their landscaping–in the whole project. They also like the fact that they’re automatic pool cover ready–people really want those because they help with pool maintenance and make them feel safe. As far as pool colors go, people are really liking the deeper colors, like dark blue.

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

It seems like people are getting back to basics on add-ons too. People always seem to want the sound of water in their pools, but they’re looking for simpler ways to get that, like deck jets instead of big waterfalls.

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

In just a few weeks, we’ll be installing our first one–the freeform Sandal. These customers knew they wanted this pool before we could even order it, and they were willing to wait for it.

The beach entry pools have the potential to be a really big product for Thursday Pools (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). I think it’s exciting. And being able to offer something like that sets us apart from other pool builders. It’s great for older people and for pets, because they’re easy in and out.

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

Y’all need to settle down! I can’t keep up with all these new inventions! Seriously though, I can’t wait to see them.

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

Oh, you name it, we deal with it. We have just about every kind of soil here–from rocky to almost quicksand. But we’ve been at this long enough to know what to expect in different areas. And fiberglass pools are great for different kinds of soil, even ones that move a lot.

What’s the cost of an average inground pool installation for you?

We decided years ago that we would price our pool installations the way we would want to buy them–to include what we would want to have if we were the customer. So we include things like a variable speed filter, cartridge filters and lighting. As far as concrete goes, we include 3’ around the pool and 6’ at one end, standard. We install vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, and even vinyl-lined concrete, but our average install across the board is about $60,000.

What trends have you seen emerge lately in the inground fiberglass pool industry?

Well, this isn’t just for fiberglass, but the thing that will change the game this year is smartphone controllers.
I believe we’ll soon be at a point where pool owners will be able to control every aspect of their pools–the lights, the pump, the automatic pool cleaner– all from their phones.

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

I basically see two segments of pool buyers–millennials and grandparents. We used to say our demographic was women, aged 39-55. Now, that range has increased both directions.

Grandparents want their homes to be the gathering place for the family. They want the family to come to them and spend some quality time. Pools help make that happen. Millennials want pools too, and they don’t want to wait for them. It used to be they couldn’t get financing. They had plenty of income but no equity. Now, with new loans, like the signature loans, they can get the financing they need. That’s great for our business.

What works for you in terms of marketing?

We do all kinds of marketing! Because we have a big retail aspect to our business, we need to. We run twelve different campaigns every year; every month we have something new. This weekend, we’re heading out to an outdoor living show, and we’re headlining it. We’re just going to kill it. We’re setting up a fiberglass pool and a spa so people can really experience them firsthand.

We’re also redoing our display yards and making them bigger. We’ll have fiberglass pool shells facing the highway. And Caleb does tons with our social media and website. We get a lot of leads from both of those.

What are your thoughts on Thursday Pools?

Thursday Pools makes a quality product that’s very easy to sell. They make the strongest fiberglass pools out there, and they have a great mix of shapes and sizes. They do a really good job of listening to what their customers and dealers want and incorporating those things into their designs and innovations.

They’re just good people too. I like the fact that they love what they do, and I like where they’re going. They build good relationships with people, and they take care of us.

What’s the secret to Burton Pools and Spas’ success?

Well, first and foremost, we’re a faith-based company. We have a sign on the wall with Psalm 127 on it. It says, “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”

We started out with next to nothing. We grew our business by noticing what people needed and providing it—like retail chemical sales and weekly pool maintenance. From there, we just kept adapting, changing and welcoming opportunities. Now, we’re winning awards. Pool and Spa magazine has named us one of the Top 50 Pool Companies for several years now. Aqua Magazine has also recognized us. We’ve won design and retail awards too. But when it comes to success, I always say we’re really not that smart. We’re just blessed beyond measure. The Lord has guided us.

For more information about Burton Pools and Spas, contact them here.

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.

Some of the content in this blog may reflect prices, perspectives, processes, entities, and names that were relevant at the time but may not be accurate today.

The Gonzalez Family Gets a Goliath

Posted on March 5, 2019August 14, 2026 by krista

Meet the Gonzalez family*: The Gonzalez family lives in a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio called Loveland. Alonzo and his wife Maria own a large home in a beautiful subdivision where they raised five kids. They now have ten grandkids who are the light of their lives. While everyone leads busy lives, Maria still cooks family dinner every Sunday night, and everyone who lives anywhere nearby sets time aside for it as best they can. There’s always something to celebrate, whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary or a great report card. Nothing is more important than spending quality family time together.

The Gonzalez family has decided to get a pool. As the grandkids get older, they’re always looking for something fun to do at Nana and Papa’s house. Maria and Alonzo have a huge yard, and the kids love to run around and play football and tag, but the kids have been hinting at how much they love to swim and how they wish there was a pool they could all enjoy. Maria and Alonzo know that a nice inground pool will keep the kids looking forward to visiting and bringing their friends as they get older.

Here are some factors they’re considering:

They want a BIG pool. If they’re getting a pool, they want it to have plenty of room for everyone to be able to get some exercise and play games.
They want a pool that’s easy to get in and out of. Their youngest grandchild is two years old and Maria’s mom, who lives nearby, will be using the pool as well. They want a pool with steps that make it easy for their youngest and oldest swimmers (and everyone in between) to enter and exit the pool.
They want a pool that’s great for socializing. The Gonzalez household has always been the go-to house for neighborhood parties. Having a pool will make those parties even better. Maria and Alonzo want a pool with lots of spots to sit and visit so their older neighbors have a place to relax when they come by.
They want a pool that will be low-maintenance. Maria and Alonzo are busy. They don’t want to spend tons of time on pool maintenance. They want a pool that’s easy to take care of and keep clean so they can spend the maximum amount of time enjoying the pool with their kids and grandkids.
They want a pool that will be safe for their whole family. Their yard is fenced in, so they don’t have to worry about neighbor kids getting in the pool unattended. But they don’t want to worry about the kids in their house wandering out to the yard and getting in the pool alone.

The Gonzalez family chose the the Goliath by Thursday Pools.

Here’s why:

The Goliath is huge. The Goliath by Thursday Pools comes in three sizes—big, bigger and massive! They chose the largest option, the 16’ x 41’. It has a maximum depth of 6’8” so the deep-end is great for the grown-ups while the shallow-end, at just under 4’ in depth, is a good spot for the younger swimmers to practice their swimming skills near the steps.
Wide, non-skid steps. The Goliath offers wide, curving dual corner entry steps that are adjacent to the built-in benches. This makes the Goliath super easy for swimmers of all ages to ease into the pool. Plus, the gel coat finish gives their new inground fiberglass pool a really nice non-skid surface that’s easy on swimsuits and little feet.
Ample seating and a courtesy ledge. In addition to the built-in benches by the steps, the Goliath also offers dual, deep-end benches with swim-outs and a courtesy ledge all around the deep-end for plenty of space to socialize and relax.
Low-maintenance fiberglass. Maria and Alonzo wanted a fiberglass pool because they like the way fiberglass pools are made. They’re lower maintenance than vinyl and gunite. They never need liner replacements or resurfacing, and they require fewer chemicals to maintain water balance, which means more time to play with the grandkids!
Automatic pool safety cover-ready. The Goliath by Thursday Pools is built to be automatic pool safety cover-ready. Automatic pool safety covers offer the ultimate peace of mind for inground pool owners because they keep the pool closed up tight when it’s not in use and require a code to open. The Gonzalez’ love the fact that they’ll never have to worry that their young swimmers could wander into the pool unattended.

The Gonzalez family has their Happily Ever After:

Now, the Gonzalez family has a new Sunday tradition. Sure, they still enjoy one of Maria’s wonderful meals, but they all enjoy a Sunday swim as well. The kids come up with new games to play in the pool all the time, and they’ve made new friends with the neighbor kids too. Nana and Papa’s house is their favorite destination!

The Gonzalez family found their perfect pool, and you can find your dream inground fiberglass pool too! If you’re ready to take the plunge with a new inground fiberglass pool, get an estimate today.

Get a closer look at the Goliath pool design.

Take a 360 tour of the Goliath pool design!

*Based on the personalities, demographics and fun-loving spirit of our Thursday Pools customers, we’ve created some fictional families and paired them with their perfect pools!

How to Choose the Thursday Pools Design that’s Right for You

Posted on February 28, 2019August 6, 2026 by krista

You’re actually doing it. You’re getting an inground pool. You’re past the wishing and dreaming stage. You’ve done your research, set your budget and considered your financing. You know you want a fiberglass pool, because your research has shown that fiberglass is the way to go for durability, overall value low pool maintenance and awesome aesthetics. Your research has also shown that, of all the fiberglass pool manufacturers out there, Thursday Pools is the top of the line for quality and variety of design options. And, because sustainability is important to you, you also like the fact that we hold an ISO 14001 certification for environmental stewardship.

So, now it’s about to get real up in here. It’s time to choose your pool design.

You may be excited, but also kind of unsure. You’re choosing something that’s going to become a part of your house, most likely for as long as you live in it, and beyond. It’s not like choosing a paint color that you can change next year if you get tired of it.

We get it. It’s a big decision. Let’s take a look at some tips that will help you choose the ideal pool design for you and your family.

Choose a size range. Note that we said size range—not size. This is a key distinction, because there’s no one perfectly sized pool for your unique backyard. Thursday Pools has a wide selection of fiberglass pool designs, and many of them come in several sizes to ensure that you’ll have the features you want in the space you have available. Be flexible and keep an open mind.
Consider the grand scheme of things. We’ve said this before, but it bears repeating: You probably don’t want to buy the biggest pool you can fit in your yard. Grab your tape measure and go! Don’t be afraid to go the hardware store and purchase yard paint and flags. This is a great way to start visualizing the space! Of the free space that you determine is available, set aside the space you will need for your patio area and landscaping. Consider how far from waters edge you want your furniture, grill, dining, etc. And, take into consideration any potential future additions such as a bath house/cabana, playset, or spa. What space is left? That is the space you have for water.
Plot it out. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices (and before you make your final decision), get your hands on the plot plan or survey of your lot. This will allow you to see easements or setbacks that may limit the amount of space you have to work with. Do you have any underground private or public utilities that you need to avoid? The plot plan will help you identify if the pool shape and size you’ve chosen are possible, or if you need to rethink your choice.
Follow the 90% rule. There is not going to be one pool design that’s perfect for everyone in your family. Don’t be surprised if you’re having a hard time agreeing on one.

So do this: think about who will be enjoying the pool 90 percent of the time. Be realistic about who’s going to use the pool most and how they’re most likely to use it. Here are some tips to help you prioritize the features that are most important to your family and best fit everyone’s unique needs.

- Are you mostly active pool goers? Do you plan to use your pool for daily exercise or sports? If so, then you want to look for a design that has an open swim lane or an appropriate depth for volleyball. If so, then you may want to look at Thursday Pools designs, like the Goliath, Monolith, Lil Bob, Cathedral or Spirit.
- Are you mostly laid back pool goers? Do the sun worshippers in your family want to be able to soak up the sun on the weekends? If so, consider a Thursday Pools design with a built-in tanning ledge or sun shelf, like the Aspen, Lil Bob LX, Wellspring, Cathedral LX, Pearl or Sun Day.
- Is easy entrance and exit a priority? If you have very young swimmers or older family members who need to be able to sit safely in a shallow area or be able to ease in and out of the pool, a zero entry (or beach entry) fiberglass pool, such as the Grace Beach Entry or Sandal Beach Entry design might be a great choice for you (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). Beach entry pools also provide a fabulous spot for themed pool parties!

Listen to the pros. Sure, no one’s backyard is exactly like yours. However, your local, trusted Thursday Pools dealer has seen hundreds of backyards that are probably pretty similar to yours. They’ve helped many other homeowners make the best choice for them, and they can help you avoid costly mistakes in your planning. They can put together an overall design for your pool project that works with the design of your home, your available space and, of course, your budget.

For additional help choosing the Thursday Pools fiberglass pool design that’s right for you, check out our nifty Pool Selector Tool!

The Langdons Get a Lil Bob | Thursday Pools

Posted on February 7, 2019August 18, 2026 by krista

Meet the Langdons:

Steve and Maya Langdon live in, Oak Park, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. Steve is a brand manager for a well-known online outdoor clothing retailer, and Maya is a yoga instructor. Steve and Maya both adore outdoor adventure, and fitness is very important to them. Their daughter Ellie is almost two years old. Ellie also loves adventure–she’s always up for a jaunt in her stroller, and there’s nothing she loves more than being out in the sunshine. It’s really important to Steve and Maya to teach Ellie about the joys of being playful and feeling healthy and strong.

The Langdons have decided to get a pool.

Steve and Maya are both big on research. When they first started thinking about getting a pool, they were worried that their backyard wasn’t big enough to accommodate a pool while leaving enough room for some grass for Ellie to play in. However, they soon discovered that there are several great pool designs for smaller yards that will allow them to have a fabulous inground pool and still have ample space for a patio and yard. And because they want a low maintenance pool that will give them the best resale value for their house, they’re going with a fiberglass pool over vinyl. Lastly, cost is a factor. They’ll need to finance their new pool, and they know that a smaller pool will require a smaller budget. Now, they just need to choose the best small fiberglass pool design for them.

Here are some some factors they’re considering:

They’re very social. They love to have friends over, and they’re envisioning lots of people hanging out in the pool.
Safety is crucial! They don’t ever want to have to worry that Ellie could wander into the pool unattended, so having a pool that is automatic safety cover-ready is non-negotiable.
A spot for Ellie. The pool needs to have a shallow area for Ellie to hang out while she learns to swim.
No slips and falls. They don’t want anyone to slip getting in and out of the pool, so they don’t want the steps or other surfaces to be slippery.
A place to play. They’d like a uniform depth for a competitive water game like basketball or volleyball.

The Langdons choose the Lil Bob by Thursday Pools.

Here’s why:

The perfect size. The Lil Bob has an overall size of 13.5’ x 27.5’, which packs a ton of swimming fun into the space they have available, while leaving room for furniture, landscaping and some green space for Ellie to play.
Lots of seating. The elongated, wraparound benches create a wonderful conversation area for friends and family.
Safety cover-ready. The Lil Bob is auto-cover ready, giving them both ease of maintenance and peace of mind.
Easy in and out. The full-length entry steps make for easy entrance and exit from the pool and give Ellie a perfect perch for splashing and learning to safely enjoy the water.
Non-skid surface. The non-skid surface on floor, benches and steps of the Lil Bob means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Fun-friendly depth. The flat-bottom 4’6” depth makes it ideal for entertaining and water fun.

The Langdons have their Happily Ever After with their Thursday Pools Lil Bob:

Now, the Langdons love their small backyard. Where there was once just a patch of grass to mow, there’s now a wonderful swimming pool oasis that’s ready to play any time they are. (Which is pretty much all the time.) Ellie loves the water, and “pool” is now her most spoken word! Maya and Steve are having a blast coming up with pool-themed party ideas, and their friends are always ready for the next weekend fiesta. Life is good indeed.

The Langdons found their perfect pool, and you can too, no matter the size of your yard. If you’re ready to start making a lifetime of memories in a new inground fiberglass pool, get an estimate today.

Take a Wet Tour of the Lil Bob!

#perfectpool #ingroundfiberglasspool #poolsoakpark #poolschicago #swimmingpoolschicago #fiberglasspoolschicago #happilyeverafter #getintheswim

*Based on the personalities, demographics and fun-loving spirit of our Thursday Pools customers, we’ve created some fictional families and paired them with their perfect pool!

Trending Small Fiberglass Pool Designs for Small Backyards

Posted on February 6, 2019August 7, 2026 by krista

Do you have a small backyard? It’s not a bad thing. While your neighbors are toiling away mowing their sprawling expanses of green, you’ve finished in a snap and are ready to relax with a cold beverage. Wouldn’t it be great if you could enjoy that cold beverage lounging next to (or floating in!) a refreshing small fiberglass pool? Your small yard doesn’t mean you can’t create a fabulous, intimate backyard getaway with a small pool. There are undoubtedly small fiberglass pool designs to suit your tastes and lifestyle.

Small fiberglass pools can make a significant impact on your social life and quality family time, and overall fitness and well-being. And if in your quest for a smaller pool you find yourself asking, “is a fiberglass pool worth the money?” we’d like to assure you that there are resources out there to help you make that determination. Stay tuned until the end for small fiberglass pools F.A.Q. to get more information.

If you know fiberglass is the way for you, check out these four fabulous small fiberglass pool designs from Thursday Pools that can turn your small backyard into a fun zone for the entire swim season. Meet Sea Turtle, Lil Bob, Titus, and Aspen!

Sea Turtle

Every bit of this small fiberglass pool packs a punch with its open swim area and flat-bottom 4’6″ depth. If you’re looking to get more exercise in the new year, Sea Turtle can be outfitted to accommodate a Badu Swim Jet System, which will turn your pool into a water treadmill. A wrap-around bench on either side of the steps increases your area to chat, relax, and unwind. And if you want a spa-like experience after exercising and socializing, this versatile pool design can also be outfitted with therapy jets.

Take a closer look at the Sea Turtle’s features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Sea Turtle has an overall size of 9.5’ x 19.5’.

Elongated benches can be outfitted with spa jets for the ultimate relaxation experience.
A flat-bottom 4’6″ depth is ideal for socializing. Most adults can walk the entire pool without treading water.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Ideal design for swim jet systems like Badu.
Auto-cover ready for ease of maintenance and peace of mind.

Lil Bob

Known as the perfect small pool, Lil Bob is one of Thursday Pools’ top-selling fiberglass pool designs. This fiberglass pool is small in size but big in stature with all the most loved features of Sea Turtle, upsized!

Take a closer look at the Lil Bob’s features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Lil Bob has an overall size of 13.5’ x 27.5’.

Wrap-around, elongated benches create a wonderful conversation area for friends and family.
The flat-bottom 4’6″ depth makes it ideal for entertaining and water fun.
Elegant, full-length entry steps make entering and exiting the pool easy.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Auto-cover ready for ease of maintenance and peace of mind.

Titus

With a classic “Figure 8” shape, Titus adds a simple silhouette to any small yard. This small fiberglass pool goes a little deeper than most other small pools, plunging to a 5’5” depth. You’ll find yourself spending countless hours soaking on the deep-end bench, feeling the stress of the day melt away.

Take a closer look at Titus’ features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Titus has an overall size of 12’x 26’.

A roomy deep-end bench is a perfect spot to sip your favorite summertime refreshment.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Wide entry steps with seats give you easy in and out, plus a great place to sit and chill.

Aspen

*Note: This Aspen pictured above is in our 16’’ x 40’ size.

Looking for a fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge? Look no further than Aspen. Coming in 5 different sizes, the smallest being 12’ x 25’ with a 5’1” depth, Aspen can make itself at home in almost any yard. This design includes many desired pool features, so the whole family can find a place to have fun.

Take a closer look at Aspen’s features.

Or, jump into this 360 view!

Key Features:

Aspen comes in 5 sizes, ranging from 12’ x 25’ to 16’ x 40’.

Tanning ledge, which is perfect for ledge loungers.
Non-skid surface on the floor, stairs, benches, and tanning ledge is easy on your feet and swimsuit.
An extended bench gives you a place to relax, unwind and socialize.
Dual swim outs and benches provide comfort and convenience in the deep end of the pool.
The courtesy ledge around the deep end gives you a place to stand and rest.
A wide-open swim area makes exercising in your new pool easy and fun.
Auto-cover ready to help you keep your new pool safe and clean.

Small Fiberglass Pool F.A.Q.

Q: What Sizes Do Fiberglass Pools Come In?

A: Fiberglass pools come in a variety of sizes! Our smallest designs come in at 9.5’ x 19.5’ (Sea Turtle) and 15’ x 25’ (Pearl). Our largest measures in at 16’ x 41’ (Goliath). Fiberglass pools tend to not get much larger than a 16’ x 40’-41’ size due to shipping limitations. There are other fiberglass options beyond a traditional pool if you’re looking for something smaller, such as a Wet Deck or a Wading Pool.

Q: Can Fiberglass Pools Be Any Shape?

A: Fiberglass pools are not able to be customized for shape or size. A fiberglass pool shell’s shape and size are determined by the fiberglass pool manufacturers designing them and are produced from a mold.

Q: How Much Will a Small Fiberglass Pool Cost Me?

A: Pricing can vary depending on many factors, including your geographic location, what features and accessories you decide to add on, if there are any permits required in your area and more. Your local fiberglass pool dealer can give you more accurate estimates for where you live. You can also try our inground fiberglass pool cost calculator for a ballpark estimate of your project.

No matter which Thursday Pools small pool design you choose, your tiny patch of grass will be converted into the perfect staycation spot for years of memorable moments. Need some more backyard inspiration? Check out Small Backyard Pool Ideas on a Budget to find just that!!