Pool Accessories Archives - Thursday Pools

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

Posted on April 30, 2020August 19, 2021 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.”

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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.

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.

Five Must-Have Pool Accessories for the 2023 Swim Season

Posted on June 20, 2019April 3, 2024 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 June 11, 2019April 3, 2024 by krista

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Automatic Pool Safety Cover-Compatible Thursday Pools Designs

Posted on March 1, 2019April 3, 2024 by krista

If 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?

If 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?

Ledge Lounger® Introduces New Options for Even Better Fiberglass Pool Outdoor Living

Posted on December 14, 2018June 27, 2023 by krista

It’s a great time to be a fiberglass pool owner. The options just keep getting better all the time. Outdoor living and entertaining is now as cozy and easy as it is indoors. With a stunning array of furnishings and sophisticated outdoor kitchen options as well as fire pits and other outdoor heating elements, you and your guests can be as comfortable spending the evening outside on your ledge lounger as you would be around the dining room table.

Ledge Lounger® is one of the leaders in the outdoor furnishings industry. Long known for their signature tanning ledge chaise, they’re on the cutting edge of innovation in terms of design and convenience–adding features that make poolside living a breeze. They’ve recently launched some new products, like poolside games and luxurious daybeds and cabanas to enhance your outdoor living experience even more.

We had a chance to catch up with Ledge Lounger’s marketing director, Jacy Walkup, at the 2018 International Pool, Spa and Patio Expo in Las Vegas last month. And according to Walkup, Ledge Lounger has continued to expand its focus from in-pool tanning ledge loungers and furnishings to everything a pool owner could want to outfit their backyard fiberglass pool paradise.

“We see people who own pools wanting to spend a lot of time outside,” said Walkup. “So we want to make sure that whether they want to be in the pool or out of the pool, they have activities and furnishings and ways to create great spaces to spend more time outside. Ledge Lounger is a one-stop-shop for anything you need for your outdoor space–in the pool, around the pool–anything you need for your backyard.”

Let’s take a look at a couple of great new product lines.

Cabanas Collection

Ledge Lounger’s new cabanas are hand-crafted with high-quality outdoor materials like powder-coated aluminum frames, stainless steel hardware, and durable Sunbrella products. There are hundreds of fabric colors and patterns to choose from, and you can choose a draping style that truly complements your outdoor vibe, whether it’s modern, traditional, or relaxed. The cabanas are available in four sizes: 8’x 8’, 10’ x 10’, 12’ x 12’, and 14’ x 14’.

Daybeds

Your days having a simple poolside or tanning ledge chaise lounge can be a thing of the past. The options for lounging by your fiberglass pool are limitless, in both style and comfort. Ledge Lounger has expanded their selection of both in-pool and on-deck daybeds with more customization options than ever before, for the ultimate in-poolside relaxation.

As Thursday Pools continues to lead the way in innovation in the fiberglass pool industry, we’re delighted to have great relationships with companies like Ledge Lounger, who are also committed to upping the game for fiberglass pool owners who want to relax, play and truly LIVE outside.

Thursday Pools designs and manufactures fiberglass pool shells that are handcrafted with the highest standards and craftsmanship. Our one-piece, inground fiberglass swimming pool manufacturing facility is based in Fortville, Indiana. At Thursday Pools, we aspire to be the world’s most respected fiberglass pool manufacturer. We believe passion, care, and attention to detail make the d ifference. We deliver artfully-crafted, durable fiberglass pools and innovative products that empower you to make a lifetime of remarkable moments with your family and friends.

The Best Robotic Cleaners for Inground Fiberglass Pools

Posted on November 7, 2018March 28, 2024 by riley

Every pool owner should have a good working knowledge of pool maintenance. To avoid pool maintenance issues, it’s important to stay on top of pool maintenance from the time you open your pool in the spring until you’re preparing to close it for the winter.

Robotic pool cleaners can be a great help when it comes to keeping your pool clean on a regular basis. Choosing a robotic pool cleaner can be a bit overwhelming as there are hundreds of automatic pool cleaners on the market, each with different benefits. Above-ground pools need a different type of robotic cleaner than inground pools, and some robotic pool cleaners will have features that you don’t need. So make sure you’re searching for the automatic pool cleaner that’s right for your needs and specific pool type. Let’s take a look at some of the best robotic pool cleaners on the market that offer great value for the price.

Hayward TigerShark

The Hayward TigerShark can easily scour a 20 x 40 foot pool floor, walls and water line in just three hours. It’s available in three models: the standard TigerShark, the TigerShark Plus Robotic Cleaner with Remote Control and the TigerShark QC with Quick Clean (featuring a patented 90-minute quick clean alternative.) It has an easy-to-clean cartridge filter system, and the 24-volt motor is designed to use less energy, saving you pool maintenance costs over time.

Given that it runs separately from the pool’s filtration system, you’ll need fewer backwash cycles. It’s self-contained and easy to use with no extra hoses, hookups or pumps required. The TigerShark is widely recognized by pool maintenance pros for its reliability and efficiency. It comes in at just under 22 pounds.

Average Price: $800

Highlights:

Easy to clean cartridge
Lightweight
On-board pump for intense vacuum power
55’ cord to reach the length of your pool
1 to 3-year warranty, based on the specific model you choose

Dolphin Nautilus Plus

The Dolphin Nautilus Plus is an award-winning design with over 25 years of technological and innovative leadership. It weighs only 22 pounds and comes with a 2-year warranty. It’s the top of the line and a best seller in the market. The Dolphin Nautilus Plus has CleverClean technology that creates a swivel system for tangle-free operation. The CleverClean system enables the robotic pool cleaner to scrub, filter, and vacuum the floor, walls and water lines of inground pools.

The Dolphin Nautilus Plus also has built-in scanning software that enables it to scan the pool’s dimensions for best cleaning. To help remove the algae, dirt, bacteria, and biofilm, it’s equipped with a system called PowerClean that creates high RPMs for a deeper clean. It’s also armed with their HyperGrip Tracking System–rubber tracks that grip the surface and walls of the pool. This allows the cleaner to get the small corners and areas of the pool, such as the edges of tanning ledges.

Average Price: $1000

Highlights:

Easy to clean cartridge
Lightweight
Suitable for large pools such as the Wellspring, Lil Box LX, Cathedral or Monolith
Swivel cables
3-year warranty

NOTE: For optimum performance, clean after every use

Polaris F9350 Sport Robotic Pool Cleaner

The Polaris F9350 is a lightweight, 2-wheel robotic cleaner. The “Aqua Trax” tires enable the Polaris to move freely over any surface–floors, steps, and walls. It’s enabled with a navigation system that automatically controls the robot’s position at all times, allowing complete cleaning coverage without any hang ups. The cleaner also uses a system called the Vortex–a vacuum that filters out particles and gathers large debris in a short amount of time. This robotic pool cleaner is the perfect choice for larger pools with lots of angles like the Lil Bob LX or the Sun Day.

Average Price: $950

Highlights:

Able to climb walls and steps
Time and energy efficient
2-year warranty
Quiet
Lightweight and easy to remove from the pool–with the touch of a button, it surfaces and waits for you to grab it, then automatically evacuates water for effortless removal from the pool
The long cord is efficient for large pools
NOTE: For pool owners who aren’t technically inclined, it can be complicated to reprogram

Aquabot Pool Rover Junior

The Aquabot Pool Rover Junior is a great lightweight option for a smaller robotic pool cleaner, and it comes in below $500. It has a 40-foot long cable that allows the rover to move freely throughout the pool. The ultrafine filter bag enables the robot to reach the small crevices of the pool’s floor, making it an excellent option for curvy pools like Titus and Sandal.

Average Price: $300

Highlights:

Lightweight
One-year warranty
Automatic shut off timer
NOTE: The Aquabot Pool Rover Junior doesn’t have the ability to clean the walls of the pool. It’s just for floors

Proper pool maintenance is incredibly important to ensure that your pool is in great shape for years to come, and there are lots of great pool maintenance tools available to help you keep up with it. Aside from reading about the most common pool maintenance mistakes, you may want to enlist the help of a pool maintenance pro near you for bigger tasks such as opening and closing the pool.

Regular maintenance like vacuuming is easy with the right robotic pool cleaner. The only fiberglass pool innovation that robotic cleaners haven’t quite caught up to yet is the built-in tanning ledge, which is a very popular feature. While they easily scale walls, they’re not able to climb and stay on top of a tanning ledge, so if you have a fiberglass pool with this feature, you might have to touch it up separately.

Regardless of what kind of robotic pool cleaner you buy for your inground fiberglass pool, the investment will pay off in saved pool maintenance time, giving you more time to do what you want to do … enjoy your pool.

Ask the General: What are the Benefits of Automatic Pool Safety Covers?

Posted on August 21, 2018March 28, 2024 by Karen

Dear General,

We’re in the process of getting a new fiberglass pool installed, and we’re super excited. The only decision we have remaining is what kind of pool cover we should get. Safety is a big concern for me. Can you explain the different kinds of pool covers available and give me some pros and cons for each?

Signed-

Cover My Pool in Covington

Dear Cover My Pool,

Pool covers are a lifesaver for pool owners, for many reasons. You’ll be delighted at the ways a pool cover will give you ease of maintenance and peace of mind regarding safety. Let’s take a look at the benefits of having a pool cover and talk about the two basic types available.

Why Should You Have a Pool Cover?

Safety. Safety is the most important concern for any pool owner. The idea behind a safety pool cover is to make your pool completely inaccessible. In some states, you don’t have to have a fence if you have a pool cover; however, many states and municipalities require a fence whether a pool has a safety cover or not. It’s important to know that YOU are responsible for ensuring safety in your pool area and for ensuring that anyone who uses your pool knows the rules of safe swimming regardless of state and local codes. Keep in mind that a fence only discourages uninvited guests. Kids and pets can still find a way in if the gate isn’t locked. Also, fences don’t stop anyone who’s already inside the house from getting into the pool. Door, gate and pool alarms can alert you, but only a pool cover can really give you peace of mind that the pool area is secured when you’re not out there.
Ease of maintenance. The more debris you prevent from getting into your pool, the less time you have to spend cleaning it. What that means for you is more time to actually enjoy the pool. Imagine waking up after a really bad storm to find your pool filled with twigs, dirt and other debris versus rolling back your pool cover and taking a quick dip. You’ll find that a cover will save you hours of cleaning time.
Lower operating costs. Plain and simple, pool covers keep your heating costs down. They’ll also help reduce your chemical usage, reduce strain on your pool’s operating systems and keep water from evaporating. All of these savings can mean more money for fun things like tanning ledge loungers, pool floats and parties!

Manual or Automatic?

While there are many styles, types, colors, and operating systems for safety covers, there are two main differentiators. Pool covers are either manual or automatic. Personally, I’m a big fan of automatic. But let’s take a look at both.

Manual pool covers are fine for keeping debris out and heat in, but not all manual covers are safety covers, so you need to check before you buy.

The least expensive option are the fabric covers with grommets that you stretch over your pool like a big fitted sheet. They can take more than one person to put in place. Motorless track covers. These roll out from a track like a big roll of paper towel. They’re a bit easier to maneuver than the fabric ones, but they still take some elbow grease.

Automatic pool covers have a tracking system and a motor and are controlled by touch pads or a key. As far as ease of use AND safety, you can’t beat an automatic safety cover.

There are four main types of automatic pool covers:

Deck mounted tracking: The motor and mechanisms are in a box with a slightly raised lid that has tracking installed on top of the pool deck.
Under-track system: The motor and mechanisms are in a box with a flush lid, and the tracking is located in the coping under the deck.
Complete under-track system: A complete custom package of color-matched, under-track coping and a flush lid with recessed polymer deck box, all shipped directly from the factory.
Above-deck motor system: These are typically an after-market renovation on an existing pool. The motor sits inside an enclosed bench on top of the deck with deck mounted tracks.

What’s the takeaway?

I was very fortunate to have consulted on the development of Automatic Pool Covers’ popular under-track design. The innovation improved upon the deck-mounted systems by incorporating the flush lid, which is more aesthetically pleasing. The under-track systems also make it easier to keep the tracking clean. They’re a little more expensive, but in my opinion, they’re worth it.

While rectangular designs are most easily compatible with an automatic pool cover, most pool designs can accommodate one. There are also many colors to choose from. Check with your installer or pool dealer for details about the cover manufacturer, warranties, and maintenance required. I’m a big believer in making pool ownership safe, easy and fun, and an automatic pool cover will help you do all of those things. They’re a great feature to include when you’re designing your pool.

Well, once again it’s time to grab a float and enjoy the pool.

Until next time…

The General

Who is The General?

The man, the myth, the legend….we just call him The General. His organized, systematic approach to pool installations over the years had his crew members calling him “The General” and it stuck. The General has over 30 years’ experience in the pool and spa industry, working for one of Pool and Spa News’ “Top 50 Pool Builders.”

Over that time, he designed, sold, project-managed and installed over a thousand inground swimming pools. As a pool owner himself, he’s the perfect authority to give you the inside scoop, with amazing tips and tricks to make pool ownership a breeze!

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!

Ways to Heat Your Swimming Pool

Posted on October 13, 2017March 16, 2023 by cargo

It gets cold in North America, even in our most tropical climates. Depending on where you live, nighttime cooling or winter weather can interfere with an enjoyable swim. That’s why before purchasing, buyers commonly ask, “can a fiberglass pool be heated?” The answer is yes: like other inground pools, you can heat a fiberglass pool. In fact, they tend to heat faster and retain heat longer than other pool types. Let’s explore the options for heating a pool.

Gas Pool Heaters

Gas heaters are relatively more cost effective upfront, but can be expensive to operate. While gas pool heaters will heat your pool quickly and are durable in inclement weather, they wear out faster than other pool heating options. They are an ideal option if heating your pool as quickly as possible is an important feature.

Gas heaters run approximately $900 to $2,200 for a typical residential inground swimming pool on average, and installation typically costs another $500 to $1,500. Operating the heater may run around $200 to $400 per month, depending on how frequently you run it and the utility prices in your area.

Gas Heater Pros: heats up fast

Gas Heater Cons: more expensive to run and don’t last as long

Propane Pool Heaters

If your home doesn’t have a natural gas supply line and you still want a gas heater, a propane pool heater is an alternative. Propane works much like gas. It reliably and quickly heats the pool water and is relatively easy to hook up. Propane units can wear out quicker than other options and, like gas units, cost a little more to operate.

Like natural gas, propane pool heaters run between $1,500 and $2,500 and $500 to $1500 to install on average. Operating a propane heater typically costs around $200 to $850 per month, depending on the frequency of usage and propane prices in your area.

Propane Heater Pros: heats up fast and efficiently

Propane Heater Cons: more expensive to run and don’t last as long

Electric Heat Pump Pool Heaters

Heat pumps are becoming a popular option for pool owners as they are an energy-efficient means of heating a pool. They use a 220V electrical line to convert energy into heat. Heat pump pool heaters work most efficiently when the outside temperature remains above 45 to 50ºF.

A heat pump’s mid-range price is around $3,500, and installation costs between $500 and $1000 on average. However, they typically only cost about $100 to $200 per month to operate. Because electric heat pumps work off the ambient air temperature, they are slower to heat than a typical gas heater.

Heat Pump Pros: less expensive to operate, energy-efficient, a cleaner energy source

Heat Pump Cons: slower to heat, dependent on outdoor temperature, more expensive upfront

Electric Resistance Heaters

Like electric heat pumps, electric resistance heaters run on electricity. However, instead of relying on ambient air temperature, the pump passes water directly over a heating unit, resulting in efficient water heating despite the outdoor temperature.

Electric heaters cost an average of $1500 to $4000 plus installation costs around $500 to $1000. Operating costs depend on usage and utility prices but are typically higher than other heating options. Expect to spend roughly $200 to $600 per month on operating costs.

Electric Resistance Heater Pros: lower upfront costs, greener energy source, not dependent on outdoor air temperature

Electric Resistance Heater Cons: high operation costs, not as energy-efficient

Solar Pool Heaters

Through solar panels, solar pool heaters convert energy from the sun into heat for the pool. Solar pool heaters are good for the environment as they generate and utilize clean, renewable, and reliable energy, and they can potentially last up to 30 years with minimal maintenance. Solar heat helps eliminate carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides emissions, a significant contributor to smog and global climate change.

Solar pool heaters are more expensive at a purchase cost of between $2,000 and $8000 as an initial investment on average, plus an average of $500 to $1500 for installation. They often pay for themselves over time because they have essentially no operating costs.

Solar Heater Pros: no operating costs, long-lasting, green energy source

Solar Heater Cons: higher initial cost, slower to heat, require year-round sunlight

Location Factors

Location can factor into your choice of pool heater in several ways. By connecting with an experienced local installer, you’ll have a guide regarding these potential location factors:

Tax Breaks – Your state or federal government may have added electric and solar heat pumps to the list of equipment that qualifies for special tax breaks. Talk to your dealer or tax advisor about these guidelines.
Cold Climate – If you live in a colder climate, a gas/propane heater may be the way to go for its robust and quick performance.
Remote Location – If you are in a remote area with limited access to the electric grid or municipal gas lines, propane or solar heaters may best suit your situation.

It’s important to note that these price ranges will vary depending on many factors, like geographic location, whether or not you have a pool cover, average temperatures, etc. Pool heater installation may require municipality approval and connection to existing power/fuel sources. You’ll want to match the heat source choice to your pool’s location, water volume, and temperature desires. It’s not unheard of to do a DIY pool heater installation, but we suggest checking local regulations and considering using a pool professional.

Pool Floats that You Need Now for Your Pool

Posted on August 30, 2017September 2, 2021 by cargo

Pool floats are essential for when you’re spending your days in your swimming pool. Whether you’re relaxing all day and splashing with your family and friends, floats for pools are crucial components to do both. With pool floats, you can be guaranteed to have a good time with all your pool party guests.

For any pool owner, pool floats should be considered a necessity. They come in handy if you have children who may be scared when they’re in the water. Children can enjoy floating in the water without fear with the help of kid-friendly floats. Floats for pools are also perfect for when you just want to lay and relax on stressful days. Who doesn’t love to relieve stress floating in the pool all day?

No matter what you want to use a pool float for, there are a lot of different options for you. We have put together a few different types of floats that we think you will enjoy.

Classic and inexpensive floats

If you’re looking for something simple and easy, the classic floats such as the mesh loungers and the bubble chair floats are great options. Both are comfortable and inexpensive choices. They let you relax in your swimming pool without having to worry about a thing.

Double pool floats

Who doesn’t love chilling with their friends in the pool all day? Double pool floats allow two swimmers to float around in the pool while enjoying a nice conversation. Some double floats even have built-in coolers so you can always have a nice, cold beverage on hand.

Kid-friendly floats

For your smaller kids who may not know how to swim there are many options out there. There are some that shade your little ones from the sun. You will be able to find floats for pools that keep your child comfortable and help them feel sturdy in the water. Even though floats can help your children feel more comfortable in the pool, children should never be left unsupervised in floats.

There are so many floats for pools out there on the market! We hope this was a good place to start while you’re searching for great pool floats. Make sure you follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more swimming pool tips!