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Category: Pool Options & Accessories

Top Accessories to Complete Your Beach-Entry Pool Experience

Posted on by kristin

Thursday Pools California Sandal Beach Entry poolYour beach-entry pool will be the center stage of your backyard—the spot where every lazy morning, lively summer afternoon, and starlit evening comes to life. A beach entry pool is already a statement, but why not complete the beach experience with accessories? From in-pool lounging to evening ambiance, these additions will make each moment of your pool brighter, better, and more luxurious. Let’s look at beach-entry pool accessories to transform your backyard into a place where everything feels just right—like your favorite beach vacation.

 

1. Elegant Loungers

No beach experience is complete without the perfect place to relax and unwind in style. Whether you go for ones you can put in the pool or out, comfort is key.

  • Ledge Loungers: LEDGE makes a variety of pool accessories, and these chaises are designed for in-pool use and sit right in the shallow area of your beach entry, letting you stay cool while basking in the sun. They’re sleek, durable, and available in a range of colors to match your pool’s aesthetic.
  • Frontgate Balencia Loungers: Line them up and soak up some rays, then stack and store them when you want to use your deck for other activities. These resort loungers are crafted with weather-resistant materials and are perfect for the patio.

 

2. Premium Shade Options

Even sun worshippers need some relief from the heat sometimes. Add shaded areas to your poolside for breaks. Whether you choose portable or permanent shade, or both, you won’t regret the addition.

  • Tuuci Shade Products: With sleek, modern product designs, Tuuci’s cantilever umbrellas, cabanas, and lounges are elegant poolside shade options that complement a beach-entry pool.
  • Custom Pergolas: Install a pergola near the pool to blend shade and architectural beauty. Choose wood or metal materials to match your backyard design, and consider adding string lights or flowing curtains for an inviting, Instagram-worthy vibe.

 

3. Floating Luxury

What’s a pool day without a little time spent floating? Upgrade your water experience with high-end floating accessories.

  • FUNBOY Inflatables: If you’re going to get an inflatable, you might as well get something unusual. FUNBOY floats bring a playful, fashionable atmosphere from chic daybeds to whimsical swans.
  • Big Joe’s Loungers: Who wouldn’t want to float around on a big bean bag? No air is required. Sturdy enough to sit on the pool deck or in the pool, their buyers seem to love their products.

 

4. Water Features: Beauty in Motion

Enhance the soothing vibe of your beach entry pool with water features that add movement and sound. Deck jets are thin streams of water originating from your deck that arc into your pool, adding a touch of elegance and fun. Custom cascade waterfalls are sleek and modern and can be installed along the edge of your pool, creating the relaxing sound of flowing water.

 

5. Poolside Fire Features

Extend your pool’s usability into the cooler months or late evenings with fire features that provide warmth and atmosphere. Whether it’s a firepit, fire table, or fire bowl, the visual contrast of the fire and your pool water creates a dynamic, inviting space you’ll never want to leave.

 

6. Poolside Lighting for Evening Magic

Ambient lighting can transform your pool area into an enchanting nighttime retreat. Along with the string lights we mentioned earlier, consider adding a whimsical touch with floating lights that drift across the water, perfect for evening swims or parties. Highlight the edges of your pool and walkways with subtle, modern lighting. Combining different lighting elements offers a layered, practical, and stunning look.

 

7. Smart Pool Automation Systems

Why adjust pool settings manually when you can control everything with your phone? These systems make it easy to customize your pool experience, whether you are planning a quiet evening or a lively party.

  • Hayward OmniLogic System: Manage lighting, temperature, water features, and more with a few taps on your smartphone.
  • Pentair IntelliCenter: A robust automation system that keeps your pool running smoothly while you sit back and relax.

Ask your pool dealer if they have any recommendations if you are looking to add SMART technology to your beach-entry pool experience.

 

8. Outdoor Kitchens and Bars

Nothing says “complete experience” like cooking and serving poolside. Having an outdoor kitchen and bar near your pool eliminates the hassle of running back and forth indoors for snacks, drinks, or supplies. Everything you need is there, allowing you to stay connected with your guests or family while preparing and serving food.

 

Set the Stage

 

Every addition, from elegant loungers to fire features and smart technology, brings your home closer to staycation perfection. So why wait? Start turning your dreams into a reality, one thoughtful detail at a time, beginning with booking a design consultation. An independent pool dealer can help make it everything you imagined—and more.

What is a Pre-Construction Meeting for Installing a Fiberglass Pool?

Posted on by hannacol

A pre-construction meeting isn’t always a part of every pool dealers’ fiberglass pool installation process, but proactive and prepared homeowners should always advocate for one. This meeting typically involves the homeowners, the dealer’s sales and design teams, and the construction superintendent to help align expectations and ensure a smooth construction process from the very beginning. An effective pre-construction meeting should reflect your pool builders’ commitment to excellence, transparency, and meticulous planning and organization.

Why Do You Need a Pre-Construction Meeting?

1. Preparation and Clarity: A pre-construction meeting allows you to get answers to critical questions, preparing you for what’s to come as your yard undergoes a facelift. This meeting is a time-saver, enhancing efficiency and establishing effective communication throughout the project.

Dealers and homeowners can hash out essential details, such as whether builders should move a fence or determine the source of the initial water fill. Even if your pool builder handles multiple roles and responsibilities for your project, a meeting approximately ten days before beginning construction ensures everyone is on the same page regarding the contract, design, and construction process.

2. Comprehensive Planning: This pre-construction meeting ensures all necessary checks are complete. In the pool industry, there can sometimes be considerable gaps between things being said, assumed, and actually done. The pre-construction meeting addresses common issues by discussing details such as pool elevation, electrical box type, and landscaping decisions. A structured approach helps ensure attention to every detail and paves the way for a seamless construction process.

What to Expect in a Pre-Construction Meeting

 

A well-planned and efficiently run pre-construction meeting typically lasts 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity of your pool project. Here’s what you can expect:

On-Site Walkthrough: The pool builder will walk the yard with you, marking landmark pool locations and noting any underground utilities to avoid during construction. This thorough walkthrough ensures the construction team clearly understands the yard’s layout and potential obstacles during the build.

Visual Aids and Models: The dealer may use visual aids such as 3D models, video walkthroughs, or custom concept art sketches to help homeowners better understand the project scope and outcome. These tools can illustrate the pool’s placement, landscaping, and additional lighting or water features.

Timeline and Milestones: Setting a clear timeline and defining milestones is another crucial aspect of the pre-construction meeting. Knowing key dates and timelines for excavation, pool delivery, and other installation milestones helps homeowners and builders stay organized and manage expectations.

Elevation Setting: A benchmark is set so you can visualize the finished elevation of your pool. This step is crucial for understanding how the pool will integrate with your backyard’s existing landscape and managing water flow and drainage.

Review of Local Regulations: Understanding and complying with local regulations and permits related to backyard renovations and construction is essential. Your pool builder should outline any necessary licenses, permits, and regulatory requirements, ensuring that your project meets all legal standards.

Rainfall and Drainage Discussion: There should be a discussion about managing rainfall in and around your pool and decking. Proper drainage is vital to prevent water damage and maintain the integrity of your entire pool area.

Dig-Day Preparation: Your dealer will prepare you for the big dig day, providing insights into what to expect as heavy machinery begins excavating. Understanding this phase helps manage expectations and reduces stress on the day of the dig.

Contract Review: The pre-construction meeting usually includes a final review of the project contract, clarifying what it contains and what responsibilities fall to the homeowner or other parties. This review helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures all parties understand their obligations and expectations clearly.

Post-Construction Expectations: Finally, early discussion of post-construction pool maintenance and care responsibilities helps ensure homeowners are ready to keep their new pool in top condition. Fiberglass pools are relatively lower maintenance than other pool types, but maintenance and water chemistry are still necessary to protect your investment for year-round safety and enduring enjoyment.

Contact a Thursday Pools Dealer 

 

If your dealer doesn’t offer a pre-construction meeting, ask for one. A professional approach to your pool installation should begin with it. This proactive step ensures your pool installation is efficient and smooth, setting the stage for a beautifully finished pool. Reach out to connect with an independent Thursday Pools dealer in your area today.

What is a Pre-Construction Meeting for Installing a Fiberglass Pool?

Posted on by krista

A pre-construction meeting isn’t always a part of every pool dealers’ fiberglass pool installation process, but proactive and prepared homeowners should always advocate for one. This meeting typically involves the homeowners, the dealer’s sales and design teams, and the construction superintendent to help align expectations and ensure a smooth construction process from the very beginning. An effective pre-construction meeting should reflect your pool builders’ commitment to excellence, transparency, and meticulous planning and organization.

Why Do You Need a Pre-Construction Meeting?

 

1. Preparation and Clarity: A pre-construction meeting allows you to get answers to critical questions, preparing you for what’s to come as your yard undergoes a facelift. This meeting is a time-saver, enhancing efficiency and establishing effective communication throughout the project.

Dealers and homeowners can hash out essential details, such as whether builders should move a fence or determine the source of the initial water fill. Even if your pool builder handles multiple roles and responsibilities for your project, a meeting approximately ten days before beginning construction ensures everyone is on the same page regarding the contract, design, and construction process.

2. Comprehensive Planning: This pre-construction meeting ensures all necessary checks are complete. In the pool industry, there can sometimes be considerable gaps between things being said, assumed, and actually done. The pre-construction meeting addresses common issues by discussing details such as pool elevation, electrical box type, and landscaping decisions. A structured approach helps ensure attention to every detail and paves the way for a seamless construction process.

What to Expect in a Pre-Construction Meeting

 

A well-planned and efficiently run pre-construction meeting typically lasts 90 minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity of your pool project. Here’s what you can expect:

On-Site Walkthrough: The pool builder will walk the yard with you, marking landmark pool locations and noting any underground utilities to avoid during construction. This thorough walkthrough ensures the construction team clearly understands the yard’s layout and potential obstacles during the build.

Visual Aids and Models: The dealer may use visual aids such as 3D models, video walkthroughs, or custom concept art sketches to help homeowners better understand the project scope and outcome. These tools can illustrate the pool’s placement, landscaping, and additional lighting or water features.

Timeline and Milestones: Setting a clear timeline and defining milestones is another crucial aspect of the pre-construction meeting. Knowing key dates and timelines for excavation, pool delivery, and other installation milestones helps homeowners and builders stay organized and manage expectations.

Elevation Setting: A benchmark is set so you can visualize the finished elevation of your pool. This step is crucial for understanding how the pool will integrate with your backyard’s existing landscape and managing water flow and drainage.

Review of Local Regulations: Understanding and complying with local regulations and permits related to backyard renovations and construction is essential. Your pool builder should outline any necessary licenses, permits, and regulatory requirements, ensuring that your project meets all legal standards.

Rainfall and Drainage Discussion: There should be a discussion about managing rainfall in and around your pool and decking. Proper drainage is vital to prevent water damage and maintain the integrity of your entire pool area.

Dig-Day Preparation: Your dealer will prepare you for the big dig day, providing insights into what to expect as heavy machinery begins excavating. Understanding this phase helps manage expectations and reduces stress on the day of the dig.

Contract Review: The pre-construction meeting usually includes a final review of the project contract, clarifying what it contains and what responsibilities fall to the homeowner or other parties. This review helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures all parties understand their obligations and expectations clearly.

Post-Construction Expectations: Finally, early discussion of post-construction pool maintenance and care responsibilities helps ensure homeowners are ready to keep their new pool in top condition. Fiberglass pools are relatively lower maintenance than other pool types, but maintenance and water chemistry are still necessary to protect your investment for year-round safety and enduring enjoyment.

Contact a Thursday Pools Dealer 

 

If your dealer doesn’t offer a pre-construction meeting, ask for one. A professional approach to your pool installation should begin with it. This proactive step ensures your pool installation is efficient and smooth, setting the stage for a beautifully finished pool. Reach out to connect with an independent Thursday Pools dealer in your area today.

Ask the General: Can Decorative Concrete Inlays Improve the Look and Feel of our Inground Pool?

Posted on by krista

Dear General, 

Our fiberglass pool looks great, but we’re starting to see some significant wear and tear to the surrounding concrete.  Frankly, we’re envious of all the new pool designs available on the market today, and we want to up the wow factor of our backyard. After some initial research, decorative concrete inlays look like a viable solution. What do you recommend? 

Sincerely,
Soaking in Savannah

inground fiberglass pools

 

Dear Savannah, 

Thanks for helping me understand where you’re coming from. Many pool owners find themselves in your situation as time passes, and most, like you, take pride in keeping their backyard fresh and updated. 

An aging concrete patio and pool surround can really take away from the elegant look and feel of your backyard and simply make it less inviting. In the past, I’ve seen pool owners attempt to cover up aging concrete a couple of ways. 

  1. The old patch, fill, pressure wash, and paint it method. Some pool owners resort to patching holes, filling cracks, pressure washing stains, and then using deck paint to make it look a bit more fresh. It looks great about half of the season, then you realize it’s going to need to be repainted every year.
  2. The hide it, nobody goes over there anyway method. Other pool owners attempt to fix up the area on the side of the house where everyone spends most of their time, hoping they won’t see the ugly concrete in another. Or perhaps, they cover it with indoor/outdoor carpet. When that wears out, they might even try to build a deck over it. 

Decorative Concrete Inlays are a more permanent solution to repair the old concrete deck surrounding your fiberglass pool. 

Decorative concrete inlays are made of a polymer-modified cement that is applied over the existing concrete deck. My deck was probably ten years old and really showing age when I had it overlaid. I hired professionals to do the work, and they came in and patched the bad places, filled the cracks, and ground down some rough edges. The process only took a few days from start to finish. It looked fantastic, and 20 years later, it still does. You will need to reseal it every five years, but all that involves is a bucket of their sealer, a paint roller, and forced labor of one of your kids or grandkids. It is amazingly easy to rejuvenate the whole area by doing this simple task. 

Speaking of cracks, I must admit that some of the original breaks returned because the concrete under the coating had structural cracks. Fortunately, they were on the far side of the pool and not very noticeable. One thing that I have noticed is that the coating is slicker and smoother than regular concrete, especially when wet. So, no running around the pool. There are anti-slip materials that can be incorporated if desired. The best thing is that it’s a great way to get your pool deck back in shape and make you less envious of all those new pool designs you mentioned.  

To help you with your decision, here are some answers to frequently asked questions I have received on this subject:

How long is the lifespan of decorative concrete inlays? 

If maintained and resealed properly, it will last 20 years and beyond.

How thick are decorative concrete inlays?


It is applied approximately 1/8 inch thick. However, some applications may be thicker depending on the design, and whether the installation is interior or exterior. In case you’re wondering, it is not a toe stub, trip hazard.

How do I clean it?


Light pressure washing is the best way to clean concrete; however, Simple Green, or even Windex, is excellent for spot cleaning stains. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly with a garden hose.

Can it be used on new concrete?


Yes, once the concrete is completely cured, the coating may be applied.

How is it priced?


It is priced on either linear foot, square foot, or both. There are many variables, such as decorative inlays, such as logos, sundials, printing, or any custom design you desire.

Can multiple colors be used?

Yes, within reason. Some darker colors are very uncomfortable to walk on in direct sunlight.

Why is decorative inlay sometimes referred to as Kool Deck? 

Invented by Mortex in the early 1960s, Kool Deck is the brand name that was the first of its kind for decorative concrete inlays. The lighter colors the brand offered were much cooler to walk on barefooted than regular concrete. 

In the beginning, some applications would chip up, but those were water-based. Be sure that your installer is using a polymer-based system. 

In my experience, there have been many instances where we coated concrete rather than tore it out. Whether it was ruined by rain, hail damage, flood staining, you name it, back then, it was Kool Deck to the rescue. We were very fortunate to have professionals working alongside us to handle this aspect of the job. R&D Resurfacing in Indianapolis, IN, was a solid partner for us, and their experience always impressed me. 

Well, Savannah, I hope this gives you some perspective. As for me, it’s time to pump water off the winter cover, AND ADD WATER UNDERNEATH. 

Have a great spring!
The General

Ten Ways to Entertain Your Kids That Don’t Involve Socializing

Posted on by krista

There’s nothing more important than family. Our readers know that we already spend a lot of time encouraging families to spend quality time together. And right now, you’re probably getting just about as much family time as you can handle. You might even be running out of ideas to keep the family active and everyone’s spirits up. As a parent, it’s getting more challenging every day to keep the kids engaged in learning and doing something other than playing on their devices when they don’t have schoolwork. So, here are ten things you can do to keep them off the screens and into “living.”

Entertaining Kids

 

  1. Cook or bake. Let the kids pick out simple recipes and create a dish from start to finish. For balance, alternate between healthy and indulgent creations. The process of following a recipe develops both reading and math skills, and it can even get kids thinking about the chemical properties of the ingredients. Once they start to get the hang of cooking, they may even start creating recipes of their own. 
  2. Start a collection. Creating a collection of something gives kids a project to focus on, and it gives them a reason to do some research. Have them explore your yard or neighborhood and collect rocks or leaves, then look them up and identify them when you get back inside. You can also wash, then paint the rocks, and use them for mock “Easter Egg hunts” in the yard. 
  3. Start a garden. There’s no better time to start a vegetable garden. When kids have a daily task like watering and weeding their gardens, they learn responsibility and enjoy a sense of accomplishment as their garden grows. Then, when it’s harvest time, you’ll have the added bonus of free veggies! 
  4. Keep a journal. During this time of disruption from their normal schedules, kids need help processing their feelings. Encourage them to keep a daily journal expressing their feelings, hopes and accomplishments. Also ask them to list at least one thing they’re grateful for every day. 
  5. Create magnificent sidewalk art. While there’s probably quite a bit of indoor crafting going on right now, it’s essential to take advantage of any sunny day! When weather permits, take the family outside and release your inner Rembrandts. You can have a competition and ask the neighbors to judge your works of art as they pass by on their own walks, or you can collaborate on a single family masterpiece. Be sure to photograph your art and share it on social media, to brighten other families’ days. 
  6. Build a fort and sleep in it. Remember when WE were kids, and we used to love to haul out sheets and create our own, private oasis in the family room? Do that with your kids tonight. Shake up the routine of bedtime by letting each child collect their essentials and nestle into their sleeping bags. It’s a great bonding experience for everyone in the family. 
  7. Play hide and seek. Get the whole family involved in a game of hide and seek. It’s a good way to get some exercise and break up the day, especially if it’s raining. If you have younger kiddos in your family, try reverse hide and seek (also known as “Sardines”) instead. In Sardines, everyone who finds the “hider” tries to crawl into their hiding place with them, until everyone has found the group.
  8. Have a dance party. Dancing is not only awesome exercise, it’s also a way to release stress and find some joy! Let every family member pick songs for your playlist, crank up the tunes and cut loose! It’s hard to worry when you’re dancing. Plus, everyone can learn new moves from each other. To amp up the fun, encourage costumes!
  9. Do a good deed. Doing good things for those who are less fortunate helps all parties involved and puts things into better perspective for your kids. This is a great time to reach out to neighbors on your street who live alone, or a family with parents who are suddenly out of work. If you’ve been cooking, make extra and drop it off for them. If you have some dry goods in the pantry to spare, make a little gift basket and leave it on their porch. 
  10. Go for a swim! If you have a swimming pool, and you haven’t opened it yet, open it now! Getting outside in the sunshine and getting some exercise does everyone in the family good. If you’ve been thinking about getting a pool for years, and it’s within your budget to do so, this might be the year to take the plunge with a new fiberglass inground pool. If staycations are in your future, you might as well make them as amazing as you can.

 

Swimming Pool Games for the Whole Family

Stay safe and be kind

These are crazy times we’re living through. The only thing we can do is take care of each other, smile and be kind. Our team at Thursday Pools is committed to taking care of our families, employees and neighbors the best way we can, and we know you’re doing the same. 

If you try any of these suggestions with your family, please take a minute to share your photos and thoughts on our Facebook page. We’d love to hear from you.

Six Tips for Swimming in Style with the Best Pool Lights

Posted on by cargo

As you’re planning your new inground swimming pool project or adding enhancements to the fiberglass pool of your dreams, don’t forget to consider the important role pool lights can play — the glow can not only make your oasis safe, but  illuminated in a style all your own. There was a time when even the best inground pool lights came with just two options: on or off. Those days are long gone! From efficient LED pool lights to luxurious spa lights, a multitude of possibilities for underwater pool lights or even above-ground pool deck and area lighting, check out these six pool lighting tips and ideas to add both style and safety to your backyard.

LED Pool Lights Have Changed the Pool-Lighting Game

 

 

LED lighting accounts for the most significant and impactful improvements in swimming pool lighting throughout the past decade. They bring versatile options to the world of inground pool lighting, and, as an additional benefit, they’re energy-efficient with a longer lifespan than incandescent bulbs—helping you save money on long-term pool maintenance costs.

Let’s explore six dazzling pool lighting trends and ideas that will make your backyard oasis unique and your pool parties shine:

  1. Color Your World: Color-changing LED pool lighting allows you to set the mood for any evening around the pool. If you’re planning a beach-themed party, consider all blue hues of LED lighting. Or a constantly changing rainbow effect will pair perfectly with your 1970s-themed disco extravaganza. Choose luxurious all-white lighting if you’re planning a sophisticated evening or even a poolside wedding.
  2. Highlight Your Water Features: Spa, plunge-pool, and in-pool water features such as bubblers, jets, and fountains can help create different moods in your pool environment. They’ll give younger swimmers hours of splish-splashing fun, but can also be relaxing or amp up the drama for a special party. Highlighting those water features with specialty lighting can add to your backyard’s overall “WOW” factor.
  3. Uplight Your Landscaping: If you’ve invested in beautiful landscaping surrounding your pool area, make sure it can be seen and appreciated at all hours. Adding uplighting around the bases of trees, bushes, or shrubs creates a warm and elegant mood after the sun goes down.
  4. Light Your Path for Safety: Swimming pool safety is paramount, especially during the evening and after-dark swim sessions. In addition to in-pool lighting options, consider installing recessed lighting throughout your pool deck and along the pathways leading to and around your pool. With recessed lighting options, you won’t have to worry about tripping or stubbed toes as you move to and from the pool area.
  5. Get Creative with Floating Pool Lights: A fantastic variety of fun, festive, free-floating pool lighting options are available today. They even come with built-in speakers or color-changing capabilities in a wide range of styles to perfectly complement any backyard or poolside celebration. From flameless candles and lanterns to glowing orbs, globes, and lily pads, you can find countless battery-powered lighting and floating options that you can enjoy time after time.
  6. Add the Nearby Glow of a Warm Fire: While a more extensive landscaping and design project than floating lights or LED options in and around the pool, there’s nothing quite like a fire’s cozy glow and warmth to enhance your outdoor living space. Fire pits, tables, or other fire features can be installed in your patio space close to your house, on pedestals around the edges of the pool area, or immediately adjacent to the pool so you can go straight from swimming to s’mores any time.

 

 

You’re only limited by your imagination when it comes to exciting, illuminating ideas for lighting your swimming pool! So as you’re planning for your new inground fiberglass pool oasis, consult with your project’s builder and installer about the possibilities and lighting options you can include to make your pool safe, well-lit, and uniquely yours.

 

Five Must-Have Pool Accessories for the 2023 Swim Season

Posted on by krista

The weather’s heating up, and so is swim season (Woot woot!). Your fabulous inground fiberglass pool is looking good–sparkling clean and ready to welcome the whole gang. Yeah, you have all the features you need in your fiberglass pool to let the good times roll … But, how about this year, you take the luxury and fun to the next level with some awesome pool accessories?And, in case you haven’t heard … Thursday is the new Friday, so don’t wait ‘til the weekend to start having fun. Get your weekend started early, and check out our list of the must-have pool accessories for the 2023 swim season, and make your backyard summer living even more of a blast!

1. Basketball float.

Basketball Float

Why not combine two of the kids’ favorite Indiana summer pastimes? With a fun-sized, floatable goal that’s accessible from all sides, this accessory is a safe alternative to an installed goal near the concrete edge of the pool. Plus, it’s an activity that lasts for hours and leaves them exhausted so that you don’t have to worry over how to keep them entertained during their school-free summer.

2. Canopy island inflatable lounge.

Canopy Island Inflatable Lounge

Summer is meant to be enjoyed by everyone, which means that after you’ve put away the basketball float, it’s time for you to have your long-wished-for getaway. What better place to do this than in your own backyard inground pool? With a luxurious canopy island float, you will be able to have that much-needed “you time” in your pool with an escape from the heat provided by the lounge’s canopy extension. In this float, you’ll be able to get up to speed on the latest issue of Real Simple magazine in the shade, tan in the sun, or simply unwind on an inflatable island of your own in the comfort of your own pool, making your backyard pool the perfect getaway (once the kids have vacated the pool!).

3. Outdoor cooler table.

Outdoor Cooler Table

A day at the pool is never complete without a cool beverage for children and adults alike. Because enjoying poolside beverages isn’t always as care-free and simple as it should be, a cooler table on wheels can be the perfect solution. No more walking into the house dripping wet! This cool pool accessory brings the fridge to you so that you can keep the water where it belongs and offer everyone a cold, sparkling soda.

4. Wireless floating pool speaker.

Wireless Floating Pool Speaker

 

Let’s be realistic. You’re neighbors probably wouldn’t like it if you blasted music from the speakers inside your house just so you can hear it in your pool. Check out some wireless floating speakers that provide a way to bring the soul of the party into your pool so you’re sure to hear your music wherever your float takes you. And your neighbors don’t have to know your taste in music.

5. LED color changing glow balls.

LED Color Changing Glow Balls

The summer backyard living experience shouldn’t be limited to daylight hours, which is why these colorful glowing ball floats are a perfect way to make the outdoor fun last far into the evening. You and your guests will surely be happier with color changing globes in your pool.

Take your summer entertainment to the next level with these great accessories. There’s something for everyone … a floating basketball hoop for the kids and kids-at-heart, a luxurious float for the sun and shade worshipers, drinks, music, and popping lights for all. Make your weekend pool party an undeniable blast. And don’t forget, Thursday is the new Friday—don’t wait too long to accessorize your luxurious fiberglass pool!

Five Cool Swimming Pool Lifestyle Ideas

Posted on by krista

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

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

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

  1. An outdoor kitchen. If you love to cook and entertain outdoors, a simple grill might not be enough. Adding an outdoor kitchen lets you cook your entire meal outside and chat with your guests while they enjoy the pool. Depending on how much space you have, think about adding a cooktop that has burners as well as a grill, ample counter space, and under-counter refrigeration alongside a bit of storage for utensils and plates. You’ll never have to miss any of the good times around your inground fiberglass pool.
  1. A kickin’ sound system. What party is complete without a playlist? A little music can set the mood, reinforce your pool party’s theme and bring your swimming pool area to life. Outdoor speakers come in a variety of options and can be incorporated into your landscaping design. Keep in mind, most outdoor speakers on the market are weather-resistant, not weather-proof. Weather-resistant speakers are made to be mounted under a porch with some sort of protection. If amazing sound quality is important to you, reach out to a professional who can do an outdoor sound design for your backyard living space. The days of carrying a boombox around are gone. (Thank heavens because our backs can’t handle all that heavy lifting!) Pick up an inexpensive portable Bluetooth speaker, pair it with your smartphone, and get your poolside groove on.
  1. A shade structure. When the sun is beating down on your backyard living area, it doesn’t matter how comfy your patio furniture is. It’s no fun to sit and sweat. Of course, it’s easy enough to jump in the pool and cool off (and you can always have your cake and eat it too by enjoying the sun and the water simultaneously on your tanning ledge or built-in beverage bench!) But the whole point of creating a backyard living area is that you can enjoy spending time both in the pool and around the pool. Having some type of shade structure over part of your pool area is a must-have. Shade helps shield non-swimming folks from the scorching sun and provides pool-goers with an opportunity to relax, dry off and reapply that all-important sunscreen. Consider a pergola or an awning. And if your structure will support it, you may want to consider adding a weather-resistant outdoor fan to up the cooling quotient and keep bugs at bay. If you can’t add a structure, at least add some landscaping that will offer shade without raining debris down into your pool and on top of your automatic pool cover.
  1. An outdoor bathroom. When you have a swimming pool, it can make you cringe to watch wet people running in and out of your house, dripping water on your floors and carpet, to use the restroom. (Although it’s better than the alternative, if you know what we mean … ) You’ll also find that bugs like to hitch a ride inside every time the door opens and closes. If you have large enough pool house, consider adding a small bathroom in it to save your home from the dripping pool water. You can add a bit of your pool decor to make it fun, and keep towels and other necessities out there too.
  1. An outdoor shower. An outdoor shower is another great way to enhance your backyard swimming pool area. A quick rinse to get rid of the chlorine or salt on your skin feels great before an al fresco dinner. Having a poolside shower so your guests can take a quick rinse before they swim will keep your swimming pool water healthier too. It will help eliminate body oils, lotions and hair products that can cause a scum line around your pool’s edge. And if you have swimmers coming to your pool straight from the lake, it’s doubly important that they rinse off before they hop in to avoid upsetting your pool water balance. Look for a solar-powered outdoor shower that warms the water for your guests’ comfort.

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

Automatic Pool Safety Cover-Compatible Thursday Pools Designs

Posted on by krista

auto coverIf you’re a pool owner, safety is your top concern. Having an inground pool is a blast, but it’s also a big responsibility. Ensuring that all family members and guests know and respect the rules of pool safety is key, as well as making sure that no one can enter your pool without your supervision or consent. Sure, fences are great for making sure neighbor kids or pets can’t access the pool, but what about your own kids, or families visiting your home?

That’s where automatic pool covers come in.

Automatic pool safety covers operate electronically, either with a touch pad or key switch. They close your pool up tightly when it’s not in use, giving you total peace of mind that no one will enter your pool unless you want them to. And that’s not the only good thing about them. Automatic pool covers have other benefits as well. They save you pool maintenance time and money by reducing heat and water loss through evaporation.

What Does Auto Cover-Ready Mean?

An auto cover-ready pool design simply means that the pool’s shape lends itself to easily accommodate an automatic pool cover of any type. Inground pool designs that are rectangular in shape are all considered auto cover-ready because they provide more options and flexibility for housing an under-track or hidden automatic pool cover system, which makes for a more seamless, finished look.

Which Thursday Pools Designs are Auto Cover-Ready?

  • Aspen. Aspen is one of our best-selling fiberglass pool designs. Pool owners love it because it combines all the benefits of rectangular pool design, like a wide-open swim lane, with a big, beautiful, curved tanning ledge.
  • Goliath. Our Goliath pool design offers a wide-open swim lane and dual deep-end benches for multiple places to sit and relax.
  • Lil Bob. Lil Bob is built for fun, with a 4’6” uniform depth that makes it perfect for playing games or just standing and socializing in the pool.
  • Lil Bob LX. Lil Bob LX takes all the great features of the Lil Bob design and adds in a huge 12” deep tanning ledge and wrap-around benches for the ultimate combination of play and relaxation.
  • Sea Turtle. Our Sea Turtle fiberglass pool design is small enough to fit in most any backyard and also features a 4′ 6” depth. In addition to being auto cover-ready, it’s swim jet-ready, so you can easily convert your Sea Turtle into a swim spa!
  • Spirit. Spirit is another option for a uniform depth sport pool. With its wide-open swim area and luxurious, elongated benches, it offers a great combination of places to both play and relax.
  • Monolith. Monolith is our only Type I Diving Pool. The 15” warning slope lets swimmers know when they’re reaching the deep-end. Its courtesy ledge all around and dual corner benches with swim-outs provide plenty of resting places and easy in and out of the pool.
  • Grace Beach Entry. One of our newest fiberglass pool designs, Grace Beach Entry boasts a huge walk-in sun ledge that takes you from zero to 18” depth in approximately 14 feet. But if steps are easier for you, our hybrid beach entry design still allows room to step down into a nice-sized swim area (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839).

What if I Don’t Want a Rectangular Pool?

auto coverIf a rectangle fiberglass pool design isn’t it for you, that’s okay! Maybe you love the classic Roman shape, with long, straight sides and domed ends. If so, our Cathedral or Cathedral LX can both easily be fitted with an automatic pool cover.

If it’s freeforms or shaped pools you love, like the Wellspring, Pearl, Sandal Beach Entry, Sun Day or Titus, your pool builder can most likely find a way to make an automatic pool safety cover work with your pool. However, these pool designs typically require pool cover systems that run along the top of the pool deck, so you’ll need to take that factor into consideration.

Automatic Pool Covers are a Win-Win.

In addition to safety, automatic pool covers combined with fiberglass pools make a perfect pairing for pool owners who want the lowest possible inground pool maintenance. The durable, gel coat finish of a fiberglass pool paired with an automatic safety cover that lowers water loss and chemical use while keeping your pool clear of debris adds up to less work, less money and more fun.

And safety. They’re so much safer.

Did we mention safety?

Is a Built-In Tanning Ledge in your Fiberglass Pool Right For You?

Posted on by krista

fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge Tanning ledges are among the hottest trends in backyard inground pool designs. They’re a newer innovation that is now widely available for inground fiberglass pools. A fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge provides the feel of the sun warming your skin while the refreshing water keeping you cool. It’s truly a blissful feeling. Most fiberglass pool buyers these days opt for a tanning ledge, and there are loads of reasons to want one, but is it right for you? To ledge, or not to ledge–that is the question. Here is a little more information to help you decide:

Tanning ledges add luxury.

Tanning ledges bring a resort-like feel to your overall pool design. Looking out into your backyard and seeing gleaming white ledge loungers beckoning you from the crystal clear shallow water of your tanning ledge makes you feel like you’re staying in a luxury hotel.

Tanning ledges add personality.

Tanning ledges add impact to your backyard design and help make it unique. The wide array of fabrics and cushions available for tanning ledge loungers allows you to create a living room-like feel on your tanning ledge and coordinate it with the rest of your outdoor furnishings and decor. It becomes an extension of your living space and creates the perfect backdrop for outdoor entertaining.

Kids love tanning ledges.

Most kids love to be in the water. If your kids don’t yet know how to swim, tanning ledges offer a place where they can splash and play in a depth they’re comfortable with. A fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge allows a great transition to the shallow-end and provides a nice landing pad for swimmers and non-swimmers alike. They’re especially good for little ones who need to overcome a fear of the water.

Dogs love tanning ledges.

Furry kids also love to swim. If you plan to allow your pets to swim, a tanning ledge will be very attractive to them. Puppies and older dogs will especially appreciate a spot that gives them an easy in and out of the pool. (You might have to have a negotiation with them over the ledge loungers.)

Adults love tanning ledges.

A tanning ledge takes adulting to a whole new level, making your backyard the ultimate chillaxing spot. You’ll be able to enjoy the water and cool off without even getting your hair wet! Add a pair of ledge loungers and you have the perfect spot to reconnect with a loved one or chat with your best friend and catch up on life. You can sit, sip, soak and sun, all-in-one.

So, what’s not to love?

It’s hard to find many downsides, but one consideration when it comes to a fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge is that they might create a false sense of security when kids are in the pool. Adults need to be constantly mindful of children in the pool, even in the shallowest water. So, while you’re relaxing on your tanning ledge, keep one eye open and on the kids at all times and make sure they’re familiar with pool safety rules.

And, if you really plan to use your pool more for exercise or games, you might find that the tanning ledge takes up valuable real estate where a wide-open swim lane might be. So, if your family is very active and doesn’t spend much time lounging, or you imagine lots of swimmers in your pool at one time, you might prefer a fiberglass pool without a built-in tanning ledge.

Some designs, though, give you the best of both worlds. For example, while the Aspen design doesn’t have a dedicated swim lane, if you swim diagonally across the pool, the tanning ledge only takes away one stroke, so you can still get your laps in!

What are my options for a fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge?

fiberglass pool with a tanning ledgeThere are several ways to incorporate a tanning ledge into your backyard pool design, based on your priorities and how you plan to use your pool.

  • Get the maximum tanning ledge space. Many fiberglass pool designs such as the Wellspring, Aspen, Cathedral LX and Lil Bob LX make the tanning ledge part of the main pool basin. The ledge does take up the area that could otherwise be swim space, but it gives you the maximum amount of space for lounging, with ample room for swimmers to enter and exit the pool.
  • Consider a wet deck or wading pool. If you choose a fiberglass pool design without a built-in tanning ledge like the Goliath or Monolith, you can add a wet deck or a wading pool to the end or side of those designs. This gives you the benefits of a fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge without losing swim space. These additions can also be raised so that they spill over into the main pool basin, creating a dramatic effect and a wonderful eye-catching water feature.

You really can’t go wrong either way.

There are so many options available in fiberglass pools today, you’re sure to find the perfect pool for you. Whether you choose a fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge or even take your luxury one step further with one of the beach entry fiberglass pools (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839), your new inground pool will bring years of fun, exercise, family time, reasons to throw a party and relaxation.

Are you ready to take the plunge with a new inground fiberglass pool? Or perhaps picturing yourself lounging on a tanning ledge right now with a cold beverage in hand, soaking up warm summer rays? If so, winter is a great time to get an estimate on a backyard swimming paradise. You’ll be in the swim by summer.