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Is My Backyard Big Enough For A Swimming Pool?

Posted on March 27, 2020April 3, 2024 by cargo

Contacting a pool builder near you for an onsite evaluation is one of the best ways to know which backyards are big enough for inground pools. Many of Thursday Pools’ independent dealers will provide a complimentary evaluation and estimate.

When the pool builder arrives, it will be helpful if you have a copy of your surveyor report or plot plan available. This plan will show your lot specifications and property lines, along with your house and any other structures, and it will ensure you get the most accurate estimate. That said, here are some common factors that may affect the size of the swimming pool your yard can accommodate:

Property line setbacks. Many states, counties and cities have regulations outlining how close your swimming pool can be to your property line, especially if your yard wraps around to the front of your house.
Septic system or underground utilities. Prior to choosing the size and depth of your pool, you’ll need to have your local utility companies come out and mark the locations of all septic systems and underground utilities in your yard. It’s possible to discover that your yard is large enough for the pool you’re considering, but the depth of the pool won’t work with underground utility placements. If that’s the case, you might consider a uniform-depth pool.
Public agency easements. It’s possible that you have easements on your property from government agencies or public utilities that you’re not aware of. If these easements have not been properly documented in your title, you may not find out about them until you apply for a permit to build your pool. Potential public easements include: storm drains, sewer mains and natural gas lines.
Neighboring property easements. It’s possible that a neighboring property has an easement on a part of your backyard, so you should consult with your county assessor to determine if your pool size and placement would potentially be subject to easement issues.
Overhead power lines and utility poles. Because fiberglass pools are made in a manufacturing facility and delivered in one piece, they’ll need to be able to clear existing power lines and utility poles as they’re placed in your yard.
Zoning regulations and lot coverage rules. Many cities, counties and states have zoning ordinances that require a certain percentage of your yard to be green space. You’ll need to check with your local zoning office for the rules in your area. If you have one, your homeowner’s association may also have rules regarding lot coverage, so be sure to check those out as well.
Retaining walls, trees, and other natural and man-made structures. The position of trees and existing fencing, as well as the positioning of your home, garage, outbuildings, and any retaining walls on your land may also factor into the size of the pool you can get into your yard.

Depending on where you live, you should be able to apply for variances to keep your pool project on track, and your pool project may only encounter a few (or none) of these factors. We simply want to alert you of potential issues upfront so you can be better prepared and avoid any surprise costs down the line. Again, your pool builder is the expert here. He or she will most likely have experience dealing with just about every potential obstacle over the years, and will be able to help you find work-arounds.

Here are a few great Thursday Pools fiberglass pool designs for small backyards:

Sea Turtle

Our Sea Turtle design has all the great features of our larger fiberglass pools, including wide-open steps for easy entrance and exit from the pool, and elongated benches for sitting and visiting. The uniform, sport-bottom depth is great for water games and aerobics, and it’s designed to be swim jet system-ready so you can easily add in a swim jet system like BADU® to get the exercise benefits of lap swimming!

Pearl

Pearl is a sweet little gem of a freeform pool that’s perfect for soaking up some sun and cooling off. The 12” deep tanning ledge accommodates two ledge loungers, and the wrap-around benches give you loads of places to relax and socialize. The swim area provides enough room to splash around and play.

Wading Pool

If space is truly limited, you might be able to tuck a small wading pool into your backyard, and still enjoy all the benefits of the fiberglass pool lifestyle. Wading pools are great for little ones learning to safely enjoy the water, and they’ll still provide a great backdrop for parties and entertaining.

It’s time to take the plunge! Which pool will YOU choose? Do your research and get the information you need to make an informed decision before you buy, and you’ll enjoy a lifetime of low-maintenance, fiberglass pool enjoyment.

FIBERGLASS POOL INSTALLATIONS DONE RIGHT. TIMING IS EVERYTHING.

Posted on November 14, 2019March 28, 2024 by cargo

What started as an online search with fiberglass pools for sale or fiberglass pool cost has come full circle. Now you’ve chosen the perfect new fiberglass pool for your family and approved the pool builder’s plans. You’ve scoured the internet for the coolest pool toys, floats and games, and you’ve reviewed the rules of pool safety with the kids. So now you are wondering, “When will the pool be done?” Good news! A fiberglass pool installation can be quick and painless when it’s done right.

LET’S TALK FIBERGLASS POOL INSTALLATION TIMELINE

When it comes to getting a new quality fiberglass inground pool, the waiting is the hardest part. But relative to other pool types, fiberglass pool installations are fast. In fact, your new inground fiberglass pool shell can be installed, connected, filled and swim-ready in as little as three weeks! By comparison, vinyl liner pools can take up to eight weeks, and concrete (gunite) pools can take up to six months. But remember, every project is different, and actual timings can vary. NOTE: During busy install seasons, or due to unforeseen supply chain issues, project timelines may increase. Communication with your pool dealer will give you the most accurate timeline projection and ensure everyone is on the same page.

When we cite timelines for a fiberglass pool installation, we’re always speaking in terms of manufacturer-approved dealers or installers. The timeline we cite is not for a do-it-yourself fiberglass pool install or a fiberglass pool kit—they’re for fiberglass pool shells crafted by manufacturers with high quality control standards working with an established network of dealers and fiberglass pool installers.

So, let’s take a look at the fiberglass inground pool installation process overall, along with some guidelines for approximately how long each phase might take. We’ll also take a quick look at some of the other variables, such as the accessibility of your site, your soil conditions, the weather, and local code requirements and inspections that can impact the process and your timeline.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO INSTALL A FIBERGLASS POOL FROM START TO FINISH? LET’S BREAK IT DOWN!

Pre-Installation: Permit application and approval

Permit application and approval can take as little as a few weeks or as long as several months, depending on where you live. Since this part happens prior to any actual excavation, we don’t typically count it as part of how long it takes to install the pool. However, it’s important to allot time in your schedule for this process. It’s definitely not something that should wait until the last minute. Your pool builder will likely be handling the acquisition of the permits for you as part of the installation process, but they’ll need some documentation from you to get started.

Note: Almost all the following phases are weather dependent, so check your local forecast!

Phase One (2-3 days): Site excavation and setting the pool

Your pool builder will outline the pool’s dimensions for excavation using the “dig specs” for your pool design that the fiberglass pool manufacturer has provided them.

The excavated area will be dug about four inches deeper and about a foot larger than the diameter of the pool than necessary to allow for backfill material to be added under and around the pool.
Your pool builder will add the base material that your fiberglass pool shell will rest on and carefully level it.
Generally, pre-plumbing will be done at this time as well.
Your fiberglass pool shell will be set in the hole, using an excavator or a crane.

Phase Two (2-3 days): Installing the remaining plumbing, electrical and filtration system

Your pool builder will install the pool pump and filtration system lines, as well as valves, and any other wiring needed for lights and other water features.

Phase Three (2-3 days): Backfilling the shell and filling the pool

Your pool installation team will now add backfill around the outside of the pool shell while simultaneously adding water to the pool. It’s essential that these happen in tandem so that the pressure on the shell is equalized.

If you have purchased a fiberglass pool with a built-in tanning ledge that does not have the Backfill Eliminator technology, you’ll need to allow an extra day or so for the backfill process, as it’s more difficult to backfill the tanning ledge than any other part of the pool.
If you’re planning to have waterline tile, it would be installed at this point as well, which might add a day or two to your timeline.

Phase Four (Time Varies): Inspection

Your pool installation must now be inspected by your local building and inspections department.
NOTE: Timing can vary greatly, based on your local government agencies’ schedules.

Phase Five (3-5 days): Coping, decking and auto-cover installation

Your pool installation team will now install the coping around the edge of your pool.

If you’re having an automatic pool cover installed, they will complete the “pre-pour” portion of your pool cover installation.
Your pool area is now ready for whatever type of decking or pool patio you have chosen.
Once the concrete is poured and while it’s curing, your pool installation team will begin to clean up the site.
Once the concrete is cured, the post-pour installation of the automatic safety cover will be completed.

Phase Six (2-3 days): Clean up, water balancing and other add-ons

Your pool installation team will remove their equipment and clean up the construction materials from your pool area.
Before you can swim, you need to make sure your pool water is safe, clean and healthy for your family. If your pool builder also offers pool maintenance service, you might ask them to help you get your water balanced for the first time. Otherwise, you may need to bring in a pool service pro to help you.
If you also plan to have new landscaping added to enhance your backyard swimming pool oasis, or need to have a fence installed, you’ll need to add the time that those contractors have quoted you into your timeline as well.

Are there any geographic or location-specific factors that can impact my timeline?

What a great question! Yes, soil can play a big part in your fiberglass pool installation cost and timeline. It’s another reason why we stress the importance of finding a local dealer who knows the territory. The soil that your house sits on may make your pool installer’s job a dream or a big challenge. Does your house sit on hard bedrock? If not, thank your lucky stars. Here’s a few of the challenges you may face relative to the soil in your space:

Rock. Underground rock, such as limestone, may require specialized excavation equipment and accommodations made for breaking that rock up and hauling it away. Some installers include a “rock clause” in their contracts. Basically, the homeowner will pay for the cost of hauling rock away.

Clay and Sand. Clay and sand can sometimes have a high expansion capability and needs to be replaced with less absorptive fill soil during the installation process. This enables the soil to expand and contract during temperature/rain changes in a fashion that puts less stress on the pool shell.

Hydrostatic pressure. When standing water creates outward and downward pressure on an object or surface that blocks its flow, it can cause bulges or movement of inground pool walls. Thursday Pools developed a patented system, the Geo-Anchoring System to prevent hydrostatic issues. A specially formulated geo-textile material is infused into the wall during manufacturing, then rolled up and secured for delivery. During installation, it’s rolled out onto the backfill, then covered, thus anchoring the pool to the earth. The walls are then better able to resist movement or bulge.

Having covered what a fiberglass pool installation done right looks like, we hope you have a blast making amazing memories with your friends and family in your new fiberglass pool! Once your new pool is open, you’ll have countless days to enjoy the lifestyle of a fiberglass pool owner! You’re sure to throw amazing pool parties, enjoy quality family time, get fit with swimming exercise, and look forward to staycations in your own backyard for years to come.

What’s the Best Time to Buy a Pool?

Posted on October 23, 2019March 28, 2024 by cargo

The best time to buy a pool is NOW! Planning of your new fiberglass pool oasis should begin well in advance of when you want your swimming pool installation to begin. You’ll want to start reaching out to inground pool builders a minimum of six months prior to your anticipated installation time. Some builders are booked a year in advance! So, the earlier you start planning, the better.

Obviously, summer is the time when we think about pools the most (especially when we don’t have one). But if you shop in the summer, you’ll likely have to wait until the following summer to enjoy your new pool. Starting in the spring will at least give you a headstart on pool installation season, but it still might be too late to get on your builder’s calendar for that year. So, fall and winter are great times to think about getting a new fiberglass inground pool. However, no matter when you start shopping, the only thing that really matters is finding the perfect pool for your family. And, as they say, there’s no time like the present. There are reasons to shop for a new fiberglass pool in every season, so let’s take a deeper dive!

Fall

Fall is a great time of year to plan your fiberglass pool project. First of all, pool installers are just wrapping up their summer installation schedules. They’ll take a moment to catch their breath, and then they’ll be ready to dive into the spring installation schedule for next year. If you move quickly, and it’s a warm fall, you might even be able to get started on installation before the snow flies! Fall is also a great time to plant trees and flowers, so if your pool is installed in the fall, you can finish the landscaping around your new backyard swimming pool oasis as well.

Winter

Winter is the best time to shop for your new fiberglass pool. Imagine the looks on the kids’ faces if you wrapped up a picture of a beautiful new pool and put it under the tree, or if you showed them a video of a new fiberglass swimming pool on Christmas morning.

If you get all of your pool project’s details nailed down before the ground is covered in snow, you might be first on the list for spring installations, and you’ll be enjoying your new fiberglass pool the minute it’s warm enough to do so.

And here are a few more reasons why the best time to buy a pool is winter: Some (not all) pool builders offer discounts for winter purchases. Also, new fiberglass pool designs typically become available around the first of the year.

Spring

Spring seems like an obvious time to start thinking about spending the upcoming summer lounging by your new pool. And what better way to spend that tax refund than to help finance your new fiberglass swimming pool? However, if you wait until April or later to begin planning your pool project, you might find that your pool builder of choice is already booked through the end of summer. At the same time, it’s never too late to begin planning. If you start in the spring and plan your pool project quickly, you might still be able to get in the swim before the summer starts to cool down, or at least get on the waitlist before someone else.

Summer

To summer pool shoppers, we say, “Welcome! Better late than never!” Feel free to call your local pool builder, but don’t be disappointed if they don’t get back to you immediately. Trying to order a pool in July is like waiting until noon on Valentine’s Day to order flowers. It’s not impossible, but a lot of other people have already had the same idea, and you’ll most likely have to try harder. Still, it’s worth the effort!

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to take the plunge.

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Seven Potentially Hidden Costs of Installing A Fiberglass Inground Pool

Posted on September 18, 2018February 24, 2022 by riley

A backyard inground pool is one of the most enjoyable features you could ever add to your home. Sharing the pure enjoyment of inground pools is one of our favorite things about the pool business. We are realists and recognize that investing in an inground pool is a significant endeavor with cost as a top concern from the homeowner’s perspective. And If you are wondering, “what is the cheapest inground pool cost?” Or “what is the return on investment for installing a pool?” You understand that inground pool prices and their lifetime value vary by type. The ultimate question for you may be: is installing an inground pool worth it? While we have written extensively about fiberglass pool cost, this post covers seven potentially overlooked items that should be factored into your overall cost estimates.

Site Preparation: Are you located in a rocky, hilly area or a soft, flat prairie dotted with trees? What else is underneath the proposed pool location? Utilities? Old roots? Irrigation systems? Your dealer may very well know the typical characteristics of sites in the area and advise on your site’s particulars. Knowing the lay of the land will help you and your dealer get a better idea of the time, labor, and equipment required for your site prep–all of which can factor into your cost.
Access: How much backyard is needed for a pool? Can you put a pool in a small backyard? And how small is too small for an inground pool? These are all good questions related to potential additional costs of access. Pool installers come with trucks, cranes, and earth-moving equipment. An inground fiberglass pool arrives in one piece and is lowered by a crane after site preparation. Will the install team have a straight shot to your backyard, or is there a need for special accommodations? Map out the route to your backyard pool location with your dealer. Determine if there are trees, hedges, or fences to move or if it is necessary to build a temporary drive for the equipment. These are not unusual accommodations, but the peculiarities of your location could affect your inground pool installation cost. If you are concerned about the size of your yard, a quick call to a dealer near you will help you determine the feasibility of putting a pool in it.
Permits: Sometimes, permits are in the realm of the dealer or pool installer. Other times, it falls upon the homeowner. Clarify this upfront–perhaps, in a preconstruction meeting. Your dealer will likely obtain the correct permits and include them in your contract. If the task falls upon you, contact your local municipality to get guidance on pool permit costs and any obligations, such as temporary safety fencing or erosion control measures, for which you may be responsible.
Fencing: This is another task that may fall on you. Your local municipality may have barrier-to-entry rules regarding pools relative to fencing and pool covers. It’s good to ask your pool builder for their education and experience on the matter. They should know the codes or be able to point you in the right direction.
Restoration: Pool installation is a careful but not dainty process. At the very least, you have the rough grade finish around the pool deck and any tracks or evidence of equipment to consider when work is complete. Finished landscaping, driveway repair, hardscape design, or other post-installation customizations might factor in your final inground pool cost. It is worth noting that some projects, such as landscaping or hardscaping, can be undertaken as separate projects on different timelines.
Electrical: Your pool equipment and pool lights will need electricity. Since you are dropping your pool into a potentially unwired backyard location, a new or updated breaker box could be required. Your pool builder may not do electrical work. If this is the case, ask them for a recommendation or pair them with a contractor you trust. Then, make sure to factor those expenses into your inground pool cost.
Dirt Hauling: A backyard pool might hold 10,000, 20,000, or more gallons of water. That means you are removing the equivalent of a one or two-car garage of dirt to make way for that kind of volume. That is a lot of dirt, and it has to go somewhere! Ensure you account for the excavation and hauling in your inground pool cost.

Having revealed these seven potential hidden costs, we hope you are ready to talk to your dealer and make an informed pool purchase. We suggest you make a list and check these items off as you cover them with your pool dealer. You will not only have a sense of satisfaction, but you will also have the comfort and security of knowing with clarity your total, “all-in” inground pool cost.

An inground fiberglass pool can improve your life at home and even increase your property’s value. It may not pay for itself, but it can potentially raise the appraisal by around five percent. Is installing an inground pool worth it? You know we think so, and we hope this guide helps you sort through some of the finer details of installation. Each pool installation is a unique home improvement project, but what they all have in common is the end goal–a sweet backyard oasis of your dreams.

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Choosing the Perfect Furniture for Your Tanning Ledge

Posted on July 26, 2018March 28, 2024 by Karen

Built-in tanning ledges in fiberglass pools are dreamy. Understandably, they’re a highly sought-after feature with fiberglass pool owners. Tanning ledges are ideal spots to relax after a long day and to perfect your summer glow. Practically an outdoor living room, you’ll spend hours there relaxing and entertaining your friends and family, so you want it to be comfortable, cozy and stylish. An amazing variety of furniture and accessory options exist based on your tanning ledge’s shape and size. In this post, we’ll show you some perfect tanning ledge furniture and accessory ideas for the whole swim season.

Tanning Ledge Chaise: A chaise gives you a contoured, comfortable place to relax on your tanning ledge. Because it leans back a bit, it’s great for tanning and napping. While other options will allow you to sit up a bit more, chaises are ideal for ledges with up to 9” of water. The chaises pictured here come in a great variety of colors so you can customize them to best fit your pool area’s theme.

Tanning Ledge Chair: If you’d rather be able to sit up and enjoy the the view, you can get a tanning ledge seat in a more upright, high-back chair style. Whether you want to read your book club’s latest novel or keep a close eye on the kiddos, this chair will give you a comfortable, upright seating option while allowing you to soak up the sun. Chairs like this also work on tanning ledges up to 9” deep.

Tanning Ledge Chair or Chaise Headrest Pillow: No tanning ledge chaise lounge or chair is complete without a place to rest your head. These headrest pillows are the perfect complement to a tanning ledge chair or chaise. They are made with marine grade fabric, so they’re fade-resistant and mold-free. Most tanning ledge chair or chaise headrest pillows come with cool features like a handy side pocket for your phone. They’re available in an awesome array of colors and you can even have them monogrammed!

Tanning Ledge Chaise Shade: Use this shade to keep the sun out of your eyes, or better yet, use it as your own personal media center. It’s viewing window is touch screen compatible and fits devices up to 11” so you can watch a movie, read, shop or do whatever you do on your device with wireless internet.

Tanning Ledge Round Daybed: For next-level luxury and relaxation, check out a circular daybed for your tanning ledge. The whole family can take naps, play a game, or just spend some quality time. These daybeds come with an umbrella sleeve and boast loads of options for cushion colors and patterns. They’re six feet in diameter, so you’ll need a good-sized tanning ledge to accommodate a daybed. They’ll work well with fiberglass pools with large tanning shelves such as the Aspen and Lil Bob LX.

Tanning Ledge Tables: While you’re relaxing in the water on your tanning ledge, you’ll need a spot to set down your beverages, book, shades and tanning lotion. There are great table options in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some even come with umbrella sleeves and a built-in cooler to keep your poolside beverages chilled!

Tanning Ledge Umbrellas: Even with the water on your tanning ledge keeping you cool, you might want an umbrella to shade a wider area. Tanning ledge umbrellas come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, and you can even choose the pole finish that best matches the theme of your backyard paradise!

Thursday Pools offers many options for fiberglass pool designs with built-in tanning ledges, including: Aspen, Cathedral LX, Wellspring, Lil Bob LX and Sun Day, along with our two new beach entry designs— Grace and Sandal (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839).

Whether you’re installing a new fiberglass pool of your dreams or just looking to add some comfort and style to your existing fiberglass pool’s awesome tanning ledge, there are so many great options to create an outdoor living space that will lend to a lifetime of memories and fun…options that will make you never want to leave your ledge!

Which Thursday Pools Pool Designs are Best for Tanning Ledges?

Posted on July 23, 2018April 3, 2024 by Karen

Fiberglass pools with tanning ledges are in high demand. And why wouldn’t they be? While soaking up the sun’s rays feels glorious, it can also get pretty hot. Being able to relax on a ledge lounger on a tanning ledge with just enough water to keep you cool is … well … just about as good as it gets.

Regardless of the size of your yard and which other features interest you if you’ve decided that you’re ready to take the plunge with an inground fiberglass pool, make sure you choose one with a tanning ledge (especially if you have a furry family member who also loves to swim.)

Read on to learn more about our best fiberglass pool designs with a tanning ledge, and pick the one that’s right for you. After that, the only decision you’ll have to make is who to share it with because everyone will be vying for a spot!

Aspen

The Aspen design is our top-selling fiberglass pool design. The large, expansive tanning ledge gives you ample room to relax and play. Place a couple of loungers on this tanning ledge, and you’ll still have room for little ones to splash around. This rectangular design easily accommodates an automatic safety cover and boasts a wide-open swim area. The depth of this tanning ledge is 12”, which will give you a water depth of 6” to 8”. Aspen is available in multiple sizes.

Check out the Aspen specs: 16’x 40’, 16’x 35’ and 14’x 35’.

Cathedral LX

A recent addition to our tanning ledge design options, the Cathedral LX keeps the classic lines of our original Roman-end Cathedral pool design and adds a little luxury. This design includes a luxurious 9’ diameter tanning ledge area that easily accommodates a couple of ledge loungers. The depth of this tanning ledge is 12” which equates to a water depth of 6” to 8”. The Cathedral LX has an open swim area and features a deep-end bench for those who want to sit and soak. This pool design is available in two different sizes.

Check out the Cathedral LX specs: 16’x 40’ and
16’x 36’.

Wellspring

The unique free-form shape of the Wellspring features a circular tanning ledge with an 8’ diameter. This tanning ledge is set off by itself, leaving a wide-open swim area. It’s one of our smaller tanning ledges but can still accommodate a pair of ledge loungers. The depth of this tanning ledge is 12” so it will also give you a water depth on the ledge of 6” to 8”, depending on how full your pool is. This design is available in two sizes.

Check out the Wellspring specs: 16’x 40’ and 16’x 36’.

Lil Bob LX

The Lil Bob LX was inspired by another top-selling design, our original Lil Bob. This design combined all the beloved features of the Lil Bob and added a unique tanning ledge to the design. The Lil Bob LX tanning ledge is split into multiple levels offering you different options of water depth. The top ledge is our traditional tanning ledge depth of 12” providing you with 6” to 8” of water to lounge in. The bottom ledge is at our wading pool depth of 18” providing 12” to 14” of water to enjoy. Even with the split levels, the top ledge can still snugly accommodate two loungers.

Check out the Lil Bob LX specs: 13.5’x 35.5’.

Sun Day

If you are looking for maybe just a little less tanning area and a little more style, the Sun Day free-form design may be the perfect option. The Sun Day features a small tanning shelf that is 12” deep in the deep end of the pool. While the small tanning ledge cannot accommodate a lounger or chair, it’s a perfect spot for you to stretch out and relax. Another great feature of this pool design is the large splash pad at the pool’s entry. The splash pad is 8” deep which gives you 2”-4” of water and provides an ideal spot for your toddler to play. The Sun Day features multiple size options.

Check out the Sun Day specs: 16’x39’, 16’x34.5’or 15’x30’.

Pearl

Our petite Pearl is a unique gem of a pool design. From the wrap-around bench to the spacious tanning ledge, this pool is all about relaxation. Pearl’s tanning ledge is 12” deep, giving you 6” to 8” of water depth. The 9’ x 9’ open tanning area gives you plenty of room for furniture and more. The tanning ledge is set apart from the entry stairs so the sun worshippers won’t be disturbed by other swimmers entering and exiting. Pearl is also perfect to outfit with spa jets to create a perfect little backyard getaway.

Check out the Pearl specs: 15’x 25’

Beach Entry Designs Take Tanning Ledges to the Next Level

If you love the idea of a tanning ledge because of the versatility it gives you in terms of enjoying the best of both worlds at the water’s edge, then you may find our NEW beach entry designs even more intriguing. We’re proud to have created the world’s first beach entry fiberglass pools.

Beach entry fiberglass pools give you the ultimate in luxury and relaxation, with the laid-back feel of a day at the beach without the drive to the beach (or the sandy swimsuits!)

We’d like to introduce you to the two newest members of our Thursday Pools family–our beach entry designs, Grace and Sandal (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839).

Grace follows the clean lines of our top-selling Aspen design. It’s rectangular in shape and offers the same wide-open swim areas that Aspen does. It also features dual, deep-end seats for deeper water lounging and a deep-end courtesy ledge.

Sandal is our free-from beach entry fiberglass pool design. It features the easy style and playful curves of our Sun Day design along with the sun shelf and deep-end courtesy ledge.

No matter which pool you choose, you’re guaranteed a lifetime of enjoyment and memories with your friends and family.

What is a Beach Entry (or Zero Entry) Pool, and Why Should I Want One?

Posted on June 1, 2018March 28, 2024 by John Wigand

Are beach entry and zero entry the same?

Yes! The two terms are used interchangeably. Whichever term you use, they’re trending big-time in the pool world right now. You may not have seen one yet, but you probably will soon. You might have experienced a beach (or zero) entry pool at a high-end resort or water park. If you felt like you were walking into the ocean while you were actually walking into an inground swimming pool, you’ve experienced a beach entry pool.

Essentially, a beach entry pool, or zero entry pool, is an inground swimming pool designed with an entry that has a very slight slope into the pool, providing you with a long, slow, gradual entry. On a pool that has a beach entry, the initial entry into the pool begins dry, or with zero water on it, which is where the term “zero entry” pool comes from.

beach entry pool | \ ˈbēch \ ˈen-trē \ˈpül | (noun): A beach entry pool, or zero entry pool, is an inground swimming pool designed with no step or a zero riser from the floor that has a very slight slope into the pool providing a long, slow, gradual entry where the initial entry into the pool begins dry, or with zero water on it.

Can I get a beach entry pool?

Yes! Until recently, beach entry pools have only been available in gunite (or concrete) pools. However, they have recently become available in fiberglass pools (Patent US 10,472,839), along with other highly sought-after features like tanning ledges and built-in benches. As “staycations” become more popular, families are looking to add inground fiberglass pools with luxury features to their own backyards to create a private backyard oasis they can enjoy for years to come.

Will a zero entry pool fit in my backyard?

Possibly, but you might need a combination of a beach and standard entry. According to the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, the slopes for zero-entry pools cannot exceed a 1:7 slope ratio. So, for every seven feet in distance, the pool can have no more than one foot in depth. Since space for inground swimming pools can be limited in most people’s backyards, residential beach entry fiberglass pools are typically a combination of a sloping beach entry and traditional steps. They will often have a beach entry up to a certain point and then transition to the full depth of the pool with a few steps down.

Are beach entry fiberglass pools ADA compliant?

They’re not, but they can certainly make entry and exit much easier for children, older adults or those who might otherwise have a challenge with stairs. ADA requirements call for a maximum slope ratio of 1:12 that must continue to a depth of 30 inches (or to the maximum depth of the pool if it’s less than 30 inches.) Additionally, ADA requirements for handrails and landings would apply.

Why should I want a zero entry fiberglass pool?

Because they’re awesome! If you’ve been thinking about creating an amazing retreat in your backyard that will be a place for your family and friends to relax, enjoy and make memories that will last a lifetime, a zero entry fiberglass pool is the perfect way to do that. It’s all the joy of a day at the beach, minus the drive, the lugging of the bags, coolers and blankets, and of course, the sand in your swimsuit bottoms! Check out the fabulous options available in beach entry fiberglass pools today and make your perfect day at the beach merely steps away.

How Do I Know If I Have A Groundwater Issue?

Posted on August 24, 2017April 3, 2024 by cargo

Groundwater is virtually everywhere. It lies below the earth’s surface in the cracks and spaces of soil, rock, clay, and sand. In some areas, it may be closer to the surface than in others. The upper level of which the ground saturates with water is known as the water table. Often homeowners know they have a ground water issue when they have a high-water table. Their yard may remain soft and wet for many days after rain. Your water table does vary over time and is generally at its highest later winter/ early spring. Even if you do not have a high-water table, you still need to be aware that ground water exists and can have damaging effects on your fiberglass pool if it is not accounted for properly.

Here are some ways you and your pool builder can prevent and reduce the risk of groundwater issues:

Install a well pit or sump pit. A well pit or sump pit is usually an 8”-10” corrugated pipe that runs from the top of the deck to 1’ below the deepest depth of an inground swimming pool. The well pit allows you the ability to visually see when groundwater is present and when necessary to be able to drop a pump to pump the groundwater away from the pool.

Install a perimeter drain. Install a perimeter drain around the base of the excavated pool area. A perimeter drain will provide the water an easy path to the well pit.

Maintain proper water level. Most groundwater damage to inground pools happens when a pool is empty, or the water level is low. This provides an easy opportunity for the groundwater pressure outside the pool to exceed the internal pressure of the pool.

Reroute downspouts. Ensure that downspouts are rerouted out and around the pool.

Regardless of whether or not you believe you have a groundwater issue, these simple steps can drastically reduce the risk of groundwater issues associated with inground pools. Talk to your pool builder about including them as part of your inground pool project.

Top Five Pool Options Every Inground Swimming Pool Buyer Should Consider

Posted on January 5, 2017August 29, 2023 by cargo

The market for inground swimming pool options is enormous and can be overwhelming, but there are only a handful that every inground pool owner should consider. Here are some important swimming pool options that you should consider and why. We have also included some budget saving tips.

Automatic Pool Covers. Automatic pool covers do more than protect your loved ones and pets; they make owning your own pool easy. Automatic safety covers protect your inground pool from water evaporation loss which aids in keeping heat and chemicals in; helping you keep pool chemicals and heating costs down. They also aid in keeping debris out allowing you more time for fun and frolicking rather than vacuuming or skimming leaves. For those folks who winterize their pool, it can double as your winter cover which allows you to avoid the hassle of dragging out the water tubes and tarp or strapping down your safety cover. Who doesn’t want to avoid that hassle? As a side note, most pool companies charge less for winterization when pool owners have an automatic safety cover.
Pool Budget Saving Tip: Adding on an automatic safety cover when purchasing your inground pool options is a large expense and often is not in the budget. In lieu of a complete purchase, ask your pool builder about prepping for a future automatic safety cover install. Many times pool builders can set the box and tracks laying the groundwork for a future install that will be easy and more cost effective than a retrofit.
Heater. For those of us that don’t live in the sunbelt, we are always looking for ways to extend our swim season. A heater is a great way to do that. Yes, they can be costly to run especially gas heaters, but you likely will only run the heater in early spring and late fall. Electric heat pumps are more efficient and less expensive to operate, but they are slower to heat and have a higher initial cost. If you decide to go with a heat pump, they offer a chiller option that you might consider.
Pool Budget Saving Tip: Heaters are easy pool options to add on later and don’t necessarily have to be installed at the time of your inground pool purchase. Just be sure that you leave enough room in your equipment area. The heater must be a minimum of 8 feet away from a window so plan ahead.
Inground pool lighting. Inground pool lighting can elevate the entire mood of your backyard patio area and provide safety for late night swimmers. This is one of those inground pool options that if you are considering it, now would be the time to opt for it. In-pool lighting is difficult to add on to an inground pool later and will cost you a lot more after the fact.
Water Features. The sound of moving water is mesmerizing and provides health benefits such as stress relief and relaxation. The best part about adding a water feature as one of your pool options is it allows you to enjoy the pool without even being in it. Adding a water feature to your inground pool can be as simple as a deck jet or as elaborate as a custom waterfall. Water features that circulate the pool water are not easily added on later and should be planned for during the construction phase of your project.
Pool Budget Saving Tip: If it isn’t in your initial “pool options budget” to add a water feature, ask your pool builder about pre-plumbing and stubbing up for a future water feature addition.
Slides and Sports. Slides and water sports can bring out the competitive spirit in any family and raise the fun level. The options for inground pool slides have grown tremendously over the last decade. Extreme slides such as SR Smith’s Turbo Twister® or Inter-fab’s X-Stream® are some popular pool slide choices. Because all pool slides operate using a water line installed during construction, they are not easily retrofitted to existing pools. There are a lot of options for on deck applications for inground pool sports like volleyball and basketball; the best most unobtrusive pool options require an anchor socket to be installed in the deck during construction.
Pool Budget Saving Tip: You can pre-plumb your pool with a water line for a slide to add later on but it does take some planning. You will want to decide what slide you will want in the future and make sure that you have the footprint large enough on your patio area to accommodate it along with the proper size plumbing line. You will also want to make sure that it meets the slides safety requirements for depth and entry. You can hold off on purchasing the basketball and volleyball units, but I would strongly recommend at least having the deck anchors installed.

What is the cost of an inground pool?

Posted on October 5, 2016May 18, 2021 by cargo

On average inground pool cost varies, anywhere from $45,000-$65,000 for a basic inground pool installation and equipment package. Basic pool installations typically include a full installation, delivery, standard pool filtration, maintenance and cleaning equipment, water fill, and some band of concrete. Every pool builder packages their swimming pools differently. For example, some pool builders may include two loads of dirt haul, $1,200 electrical allowance, and the building permits whereas other pool builders may not include any of those items.

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