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How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost in Iowa?

Posted on by jake

Fiberglass pool cost in Iowa varies based on your location, your lot, and what’s under the surface. From the Quad Cities to Dubuque’s bluffs to open farmland near Des Moines, every backyard comes with its own set of considerations. Soil type, excavation access, and municipal requirements like permits and fencing can all influence your total investment and timeline. Whether you’re building in a suburban neighborhood or a rural acreage, knowing how these factors affect your budget is the first step to making smart, informed decisions.

 

Iowans know how to make the most of a short swim season—so upgrades like integrated heaters, premium decking, and in-pool lighting are popular for stretching enjoyment into cooler evenings and shoulder months. Because no two properties are the same, understanding how Iowa’s soil types, yard layouts, and municipal codes affect your pool’s total cost helps you plan smarter, sooner. The right combination of features and foresight can turn your backyard into a custom-fit escape that works for your space, climate, and schedule.

What’s the Average Cost of a Fiberglass Pool Installation in Iowa? Survey Says…

 

To help Iowa homeowners set realistic expectations, Thursday Pools surveyed our independent dealers across the state in 2025. Their insight captures real-world pricing for fiberglass pool installations in actual Iowa backyards.

AVERAGE IOWA FIBERGLASS POOL INSTALLATION BY SIZE
Pool Type Small Fiberglass Pools Medium Fiberglass Pools Large Fiberglass Pools
Size Range Up to 26 ft Long or 400 ft² 26 to 34 ft Long or 400 to 600 ft² 35 ft and Longer or 600+ ft²
Average Cost $80,000 $100,000 $120,000

 

 

The survey results can give you a helpful ballpark for budgeting. Your investment will depend on everything from site access and soil type to the design and features you choose. If you’re ready to explore the next steps, your best move is to contact a nearby Thursday Pools dealer. They’ll provide a tailored quote, walk you through your options, and help bring your dream backyard to life—on time and on budget.

Average Cost of Popular Pool Models Installed in Iowa

GOLIATH (12’ x 25’)

Don’t let Iowa’s tighter city or suburb lots deter you—the smallest version of the Goliath makes a strong impression even in compact spaces. This sleek design includes built-in benches and easy-entry steps that blend functionality with comfort. Its open swim lane is perfect for early morning laps or laid-back afternoons in the sun. Whether in a downtown Des Moines neighborhood or a cozy backyard in Cedar Falls, this pool proves that “small” doesn’t mean sacrificing style or enjoyment.

 

According to our 2025 survey of Thursday Pools dealers across Iowa, the average cost of a standard Goliath or other small fiberglass pool installation less than 26 feet long and 400 square feet is $80,000.

Thursday Pools Lil Bob with California color

LIL BOB (13.5’ x 27.5’)

Lil Bob is the sweet spot for Iowa families who want room to move without taking over the entire backyard. The flat-bottom layout supports everything from casual water volleyball to a low-impact aquatic workout. Wide steps invite you in, while wraparound benches offer plenty of space to kick back and catch up with family and friends. Lil Bob adapts to your space and lifestyle with ease.

 

Our 2025 survey of Thursday Pools dealers in Iowa shows the average cost for a standard installation of Lil Bob or other medium-sized fiberglass pool designs between 26 and 34 feet long, or 400 to 600 square feet, is $100,000.

 

Mack Daddy Pool Model Image

MACK DADDY (16’ x 36’)

 

For Iowans with larger lots and bigger pool goals, the Mack Daddy delivers a whole backyard experience. It features our first built-in spa with spillover, an oversized tanning ledge for soaking up sunny Midwest days, and a spacious swim lane for laps, games, or floating your cares away. Multiple conversation zones and wraparound benches ensure every guest has a place to relax. Whether you’re hosting weekend cookouts in West Des Moines or building a retreat on an acreage near Iowa City, the Mack Daddy turns any space into a statement.

 

Our 2025 Iowa dealer survey shows that the average cost for a standard installation of the Mack Daddy and other large fiberglass pools over 35 feet long and 600 square feet is $120,000.

 

 

What Your Iowa Yard Means for Your Pool Budget

 

From the rich loam of Iowa’s farmland to the harder clay soils in the Driftless Area and pockets of rocky terrain in the north-central part of the state, what’s beneath your backyard can shape your fiberglass pool installation in more ways than one. If your property sits on clay-heavy soil, common in areas like Cedar Rapids or Waterloo, your pool builder may need to invest extra effort in excavation and proper drainage. Sandy soil along riverbanks and in parts of Southeast Iowa might require reinforcement measures to keep your pool structurally secure over the years.

 

Iowa’s rolling terrain brings another layer of complexity. In neighborhoods with noticeable slopes—like those found around Council Bluffs or Dubuque—installers might need to level the site with grading or build retaining walls to create a safe and stable base for the pool and patio. Those added construction steps can affect both cost and timeline.

Access to your backyard also plays a big role. In tighter Des Moines suburbs or established communities with mature landscaping or fencing, bringing in large fiberglass pool shells might require cranes or alternate delivery equipment. These logistics need careful coordination and can increase the project’s overall price.

 

To set expectations early and plan confidently, connect with a local Thursday Pools dealer. They’ll assess your yard’s unique layout, soil type, and accessibility needs to help you create a pool plan that works for your property and your budget—without surprises down the road.

 

AVERAGE ADDITIONAL YARD-RELATED EXPENSES IN IOWA

 
Excavating Sandy Soil $4,400
Excavating Clay Soil $5,100
Excavating Rocky Soil $4,200
Above-Average Slope Requiring Extra Grading $8,300
Limited Yard Access  $8,000

 

Iowa Pool Fencing Rules: What Homeowners Need to Know

Before you begin your backyard fiberglass pool project, make sure you understand the fencing and safety requirements that come with it. While Iowa’s Swimming Pool and Spa Program doesn’t require registration for most residential pools, that doesn’t mean there aren’t essential regulations to follow. Iowa cities and counties enforce their own pool barrier laws, and the details can vary depending on where you live.

 

Many cities across the state, including Ankeny, Marion, Urbandale, Mason City, and Burlington, follow International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) standards requiring a barrier at least 48 inches high surrounding any residential pool to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children or pets.

 

Some Iowa municipalities have stricter rules. In Pleasant Hill, for example, fencing around pools must be at least 54 inches tall. Unincorporated Polk County requires a minimum fence height of 5 feet, and local codes in cities like Asbury and Indianola call for even taller 6-foot fencing. Bettendorf homeowners must install a 5-foot fence unless an existing 4-foot barrier is already in place.

 

Fence gates must be self-closing and self-latching in most jurisdictions, and placement of the latch may need to follow additional child safety standards. Since requirements differ from one part of the state to another, it’s crucial to check with your local municipality or homeowners association early in the planning process.

 

Your local Thursday Pools independent dealer can help you navigate local codes and ensure your pool plan is fully compliant from day one. Accounting for these rules upfront keeps your project on track and your pool area safe.

 

According to our 2025 survey of Iowa dealers, the average cost for a 300-linear-foot pool fence is approximately $12,700.

 

Popular Pool Upgrades That Iowa Homeowners Love

A fiberglass pool shell is the foundation of your backyard retreat, but the right upgrades can personalize your space while simplifying maintenance and extending your swimming season here in the Hawkeye State. Whether you’re creating a place for peaceful relaxation, playful weekends, or year-round entertainment, the features below are some of the most in-demand choices among Iowa homeowners. The average costs come from our 2025 survey of independent Thursday Pools dealers across the state.

 

Comfort, Control, and Clean Water

 

Pool Heater Average Cost in Iowa: $5,000

Stretch your swim season into Iowa’s brisk spring and cool autumn with a reliable pool heater that keeps water temperatures comfortable.

 

UV Filter System Average Cost in Iowa: $3,300

Reduce chemical use while maintaining healthy, clear water. A UV filtration system targets harmful bacteria and algae for a gentler, more eco-friendly pool.

 

Pool Automation and Smart Control System Average Cost in Iowa: $4,000

Manage lighting, temperature, and filtration from your smartphone or tablet, even when you’re away.

 

Automatic Pool Cleaning and Vacuuming System Average Cost in Iowa: $5,200

Let your automated pool cleaning system do the dirty work while you enjoy the fun. Quietly and efficiently clean your pool on a schedule that suits your lifestyle.

 

 

Safety and Protection

 

Automatic Pool Cover Average Cost in Iowa: $16,000

Enhance safety, preserve heat, and keep debris out with a cover that opens or closes at the push of a button.

 

Non-Automatic Safety Pool Cover Average Cost in Iowa: $6,700

A manual cover offers many of the same safety benefits at a more affordable price point—an ideal option for budget-conscious homeowners.

 

 

Recreation and Relaxation

 

Add-On Spa Average Cost in Iowa: $15,900

An integrated spa offers enhanced enjoyment after a long day.

 

Simple Pool Slide Average Cost in Iowa: $5,700

Add family-friendly fun with a straightforward slide that delivers timeless backyard entertainment.

 

Deluxe Pool Slide Average Cost in Iowa: $8,600

Make a bigger splash with a taller, curvier slide, bringing a resort feel to your backyard.

 

Diving Board (Type 1 Diving Pools Only) Average Cost in Iowa: $2,200

Only suitable for certified diving pool designs, a diving board adds athletic fun for confident swimmers.

*Thursday Pools strongly advises against pool slides and diving boards due to safety concerns. The inclusion of a diving board or slide with any fiberglass pool must be carefully reviewed by a licensed professional to ensure compliance with all local building codes, safety regulations, and manufacturer guidelines. Not all fiberglass pool models are suitable for diving or slide use. It is the responsibility of the homeowner and installer to ensure proper installation and usage. Always prioritize safety and consult a qualified expert before adding any diving or sliding feature to your pool.

Patios, Landscaping, and Surroundings

 

Poured-Concrete Patio (Approx. 1,200 sq. ft.) Average Cost in Iowa: $13,900

Durable and cost-effective, concrete patios handle Iowa’s freeze-thaw cycles well and provide clean lines around your pool for lounging and hosting.

 

Paver Patio (Approx. 1,200 sq. ft.) Average Cost in Iowa: $16,000

Elevate your poolside aesthetics with textured, slip-resistant brick, concrete, or stone pavers that stand up beautifully to Iowa’s seasonal changes.

 

Surrounding Landscaping Average Cost in Iowa: $16,000

Complete the scene with native grasses, privacy trees, flower beds, or hardscapes that enhance your pool space’s beauty.

 

 

Water Features and Lighting Accents

 

Specialty Waterline Tile Average Cost in Iowa: $6,600

Customize your pool’s look with decorative tile that frames its edges and adds personality and polish.

 

LED Pool Lights Average Cost in Iowa: $1,332 per light

Keep the fun going after sunset with energy-efficient, color-changing LED lighting that sets the perfect evening mood.

 

Deck Jets Average Cost in Iowa: $1,600 per jet

Create graceful arcs of water that add motion and auditory charm to your pool environment.

 

Cascading Waterfalls Average Cost in Iowa: $9,200

Add natural elegance and relaxing ambiance with a custom waterfall feature that blends seamlessly into your landscape.

 

 

Bring Your Backyard Vision to Life with a Fiberglass Pool in Iowa

Your Iowa backyard can be more than just green space. It can be the heart of your home’s outdoor lifestyle. Whether unwinding in West Des Moines, entertaining in Cedar Rapids, or creating a summer escape in the countryside, a fiberglass pool offers year-round value, comfort, and connection. With the right design and installation plan, you can enjoy lasting memories and a personalized space that suits your family, your property, and your budget.

 

Your pool project’s next steps should begin with tools that make planning easy and informed. Use the Thursday Pools Pool Cost Calculator to explore personalized budget ranges based on real-world Iowa insights, and check out our Pool Selector Tool to find the designs that best fit your space, needs, and style.

 

When you’re ready to bring your project to life, connect with a trusted independent Thursday Pools dealer near you. They’ll walk you through everything from your yard’s soil and slope to access, permitting, and the best pool features for Iowa living. Your dream pool is closer than you think—now let’s make it happen.
When you’re ready for tailored insight from a certified expert, contact an independent Thursday Pools dealer in your area. They’ll assess your property’s layout and soil, explain local regulations and access logistics, and help you create a pool plan that reflects your vision and fits your budget.

Get Your Personalized Estimate


 

What is LSI?

Posted on by kristin

What is LSI?

When it comes to maintaining the sparkling allure of your fiberglass pool, understanding the nuances and importance of pool water chemistry is paramount. Among the various metrics and tests available, the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of pool care. This post aims to demystify LSI and explain its importance in keeping your fiberglass pool in top condition for years to come.

What is the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI)?

Developed in the 1930s by Dr. Wilfred Langelier, the Langelier Saturation Index offers a precise, unbiased measure of your pool water’s balance. Ultimately, LSI assesses how saturated water is with calcium carbonate, a component crucial for maintaining the integrity and appearance of your pool. The index provides a clear, numeric value that reflects your water’s balance, with perfectly balanced, neutral water having a zero LSI value. 

Maintaining your pool water within a range of -0.3 to +0.3 on the scale is acceptable, as it prevents the water from damaging the fiberglass surface. For saltwater pools, a slightly tighter range of -0.2 to +0.2 is recommended to account for the unique chemistry of saltwater systems.

Why is LSI Important for Your Fiberglass Pool?

Understanding and managing the LSI of your pool water is critical for several reasons:

  • Preventing Scale Formation: If the LSI is too high, it indicates your water is overly saturated with calcium carbonate. This condition leads to scale formation, as the water attempts to return to a balanced state by depositing excess minerals onto your pool’s surfaces and equipment. Not only does this affect the aesthetic appeal of your pool, but it can also hinder the efficiency of your pool’s filtration system.

 

  • Avoiding Corrosion and Damage: On the flip side, a low Langelier Saturation Index value indicates corrosive water that can pose a significant threat to the integrity of your fiberglass pool. Corrosive water can lead to chalking, a form of damage where the fiberglass gel coat surface begins to deteriorate. This damage not only affects the pool’s appearance but can also compromise its surface integrity over time.

 

  • Holistic Water Balance Approach: While keeping individual chemical levels within recommended ranges is essential, focusing solely on ranges and levels doesn’t provide a complete picture of your pool’s health. The Langelier Saturation Index offers an unbiased, comprehensive, and holistic view of your pool’s chemistry and water balance. By maintaining a balanced LSI, you ensure the longevity and durability of your fiberglass pool, protecting your investment and ensuring it remains a source of joy and relaxation for years to come.

How to Balance Your Pool Water Using LSI

Balancing your pool water’s LSI involves monitoring and adjusting several factors, including pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, temperature, and total dissolved solids. Here are some tips to help you maintain an optimal LSI:

 

Regular Testing: Use reliable test kits to frequently check the key factors affecting LSI levels. This process will help you identify any imbalances early on so you can take corrective action.

Adjust Chemical Levels: Based on your test results, adjust the levels of pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness as needed to bring your pool water within the ideal LSI range.

Consider Pool Temperature: Remember that water temperature affects LSI, with warmer water tending to be more scale-forming. Adjust your maintenance routine seasonally to account for temperature changes.

Professional Consultation: If you’re unsure about adjusting your pool’s chemistry, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A pool maintenance expert can provide tailored recommendations based on your pool’s specific conditions.

 

Check out this article for a step-by-step approach to using Orenda’s helpful LSI calculator app to balance your pool water.

 

The Langelier Saturation Index is more than just a number; it’s a comprehensive guide to maintaining the beauty and integrity of your fiberglass pool. By understanding and managing your pool’s LSI, you’re not just caring for the water. You’re preserving the entire pool experience, ensuring it remains a safe, enjoyable, and beautiful oasis for many years. As part of your broader fiberglass pool maintenance strategy, mastering LSI empowers you to take proactive steps towards pristine water quality and pool longevity.

Large and Deep Fiberglass Pool Options

Posted on by Karen

Pool owners love fiberglass pools for many reasons. Fiberglass pools are low-maintenance, quick to install and require fewer chemicals. Because fiberglass pools don’t have liners to replace or concrete that will eventually need to be replastered, they have the lowest lifetime cost of ownership over vinyl and gunite pools. They also have a smooth, durable finish that’s totally pet friendly, making them a sure bet for everyone in the family to love.

So why would anyone choose anything other than fiberglass? Well, there really aren’t too many reasons! However, for pool buyers looking for a large inground pool, the options in fiberglass are somewhat limited. Whereas gunite and vinyl pools are built on-site, fiberglass pools are made in a factory, out of a mold, and then transported in one piece to the home of their lucky new pool owners. There’s a limit to the size of what can be safely loaded, unloaded and transported, and on-site physical barriers like fences and trees also have to be taken into consideration for delivery.

Alas, there are some large fiberglass pool options that allow swimming pool owners the best of both worlds–big and low-maintenance. For your convenience, we have created comparison charts of large pools by various manufacturers in both rectangular and freeform shapes. While there are many similarities, certain aspects may be more appealing to you.

While large and deep fiberglass pools offer more than ample swim area for families, not everyone needs that much depth. If you want a pool that’s still generously sized but maybe not quite so deep, check out Thursday Pools models like Goliath, Aspen, or the Cathedral LX. With so many amazing options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect pool for you!

How To Close An Inground Pool

Posted on by krista

Closed Inground PoolFor some, it’s a season of denial, but when that first multi-hued leaf hits the water, it’s hard to ignore the reality that it’s fast becoming time to close the pool. If you’re in a temperate climate, you’ll want to winterize your pool to set yourself up for continued enjoyment when the weather is warmer. Whether closing an above-ground pool or an inground pool, many of the same principles apply. However, your regimen and costs may vary if you are closing a vinyl or gunite inground pool. For a more in-depth comparison of fiberglass vs vinyl vs gunite, download our free eBook. In this post, we will cover how to close an inground pool that is fiberglass. 

STEPS TO AN INGROUND FIBERGLASS POOL CLOSING

    1. Set a date. Get it on your calendar, and if you need to get on the schedule for pool service, it’s wise to make an appointment as early as possible before the time slots fill up.
    2. Balance your water chemistry. Even if you’ve hired a pool service company, there are likely tasks you should perform in advance. One is making sure you’ve established proper water chemistry. That includes checking and balancing for alkalinity, pH, free chlorine, calcium hardness, salt, stabilizer, metals, and dissolved solids. Note: the “eyeball test” will not cut it. Water that is pristine in appearance can still be harmful or out of balance. That’s why we test. Keep in mind that balance also refers to the neutrality of the water, meaning you don’t want water that is too acidic (can cause corrosion) or too basic (can cause scaling/deposit buildup). Your Thursday Pools Owner’s Manual is a great resource for recommended water chemistry levels.
      NOTE: do not treat your fiberglass pool with calcium hypochlorite because the percent of free chlorine is so high that it can damage the pool surface.
    3. Wipe down the scum line. Otherwise known as the “water line” or “tile line,” the “scum line” is a result of body oils, lotions, and environmental contaminants that float on the surface of pools and leave a mark that is usually harmless but doesn’t look good. This blemish could become a bigger problem if left unattended. Note: Be gentle. Use a light touch with a wiping cloth or brush – don’t scrape – to preserve the gel coat of your pool.
    4. Clean. Give your pool a final skim, vacuum, clean the filter baskets, and backwash the filter before the pool service company arrives. (The General gave us a good primer on backwashing and the ins and outs of a sand filter)
    5. Add winterizing chemicals. Add the final chemicals in your winterizing process the day before your service company arrives, allowing time for the chemicals to take effect before their arrival. If your water is properly balanced, no additional chlorine is necessary. With no swimmer use and cooler water temperatures, chlorine demand over the winter months remains very low. 
    6. Tidy up. We’ve talked mostly about chemicals up to this point. Organize and store those chemicals tightly and securely in a well-ventilated space, with special care not to place caustic chemicals too close to each other. In addition, tidy up your pool accessories, toys, and furniture. This could include pulling out ladders, diving boards, and other fixtures and checking them for wear and tear. If you have a secured or immovable element, like a slide, it’s a good idea to give it a protective wax that will set it up for continued use in the spring.
    7. Cover it. We recommend automatic pool covers for safety, security, and pool hygiene. If you get an automatic pool cover, you will be pleased with its contribution to a quality pool closing.

FAQ. A lot of new customers ask, “Should I drain my inground pool for the winter?” The answer is absolutely not. You risk structural damage if you drain your pool of water. Professional pool installers take great care to reduce the abundance of hydrostatic pressure from groundwater, but it is always there, and water in the pool counterbalances that external pressure. Recent technological innovations can lessen the impact of groundwater. 

If you must remove some water from your pool or if water is captured on top of your pool cover, drain it away from the deck, and be careful to leave water in the pool above the skimmer level. If you absolutely must drain the water completely from your pool, please consult with a professional. That can protect you against voiding your warranty. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CLOSE A POOL? 

The cost of closing a pool will vary based on your area, but a national average is around $250. For reference, here are monthly cost estimates of pool chemicals: 

  • pH increaser/decreaser $10/mo
  • Calcium hardness increaser $20/mo
  • Stabilizer (cyanuric acid) $25/mo
  • Sanitizer (chlorine) $40/mo
  • Shock $38/mo
  • Algaecide $15/mo 

As previously mentioned, the costs will vary based on your geography, your commitment to regular maintenance, your vigilant use of a pool cover, and other factors. If you’re still pondering questions like “how much shock will I need for my pool?”, we have a guide that provides some size/cost ratios on the most used chemicals. 

BOTTOM LINE 

Winterizing or closing your pool for the season is part of a disciplined approach to pool ownership. The season, and a period of disuse, can have negative consequences for your pool. By keeping a regular maintenance schedule all year long and giving special attention to a proper seasonal closing, you can keep your inground fiberglass pool in good shape for many years to come. 

Fiberglass Pool vs. Vinyl Pool – Which is Better For You?

Posted on by krista

Inground pool

An inground pool is a big purchase—one that involves changing your living space and your current routines—so, of course, you want to understand all of your options (meaning vinyl vs. fiberglass vs. concrete pools). And if you’re here, it means you’ve either narrowed your choices down to vinyl or fiberglass or are attempting to do so. Either way, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll discuss a fiberglass pool vs vinyl pool.

 

 

Overview

Pros and Cons: Fiberglass vs Vinyl

Fiberglass

Pros:
Quick installation time
Most comfortable on your feet
Resistant to algae growth
High resale value
Pet Friendly

Cons:
Limited customization options
Higher upfront cost

Vinyl

Pros:
Low installation cost
Relatively quick to install
Resistant to algae growth
Customization

Cons:
More prone to damage/weathering
Harder to incorporate features, such as steps and tanning ledges
More financial investment over time
Low resale value
Not pet friendly

HOW THEY ARE MADE & INSTALLED

Both vinyl and fiberglass have relatively quick installation times, with vinyl about four to eight weeks and fiberglass about three weeks on average. An inground vinyl pool is 100% crafted on the job site, while fiberglass pool shells are manufactured at a designated facility based on a mold. Being created from a mold means more quality control and quicker installation. Once the pool shell is made and delivered, it is placed into the pre-dug hole and leveled. Following this are various processes, including plumbing, electrical equipment, decking, and coping. 

Vinyl pool installation takes place directly on the job site, starting with the wall panels, which are typically constructed with steel or plastic. The pool floor is then made with poured concrete, and this also serves as a base for the walls to connect. A blend of vermiculite, cement, and water or a blend of sand, cement, and water is used to create the pool bottom. The entire surface is then covered with the vinyl liner and a vacuum is used to suction the liner into place. Plumbing, electrical equipment, decking, and coping follow suit. 

 

HOW MUCH EACH POOL COSTS

Comparing vinyl pool cost to fiberglass pool cost is a fair comparison, as they both have lower upfront costs than a concrete pool would. However, vinyl liner pools can be less expensive than fiberglass by around $10 to 15,000. Fiberglass pricing will vary depending on many factors, so it’s always best to get a quote from an installation professional.

 

HOW LONG DOES EACH POOL TYPE LAST

The structure of a vinyl liner pool has the potential to last for decades, but the liner wears more quickly and is subject to tearing (especially if you have dogs who like to swim), so it will need to be replaced. Groundwater underneath the pool can cause other potential issues with the liner, such as floating. While one of the advantages of vinyl liner pools is their ability to be customized, customization also adds to the overall price of the pool. The unique shapes can also hike up repair prices as it becomes more complicated to overlay the liner. The likelihood of this pool type being damaged can also decrease your home’s resale value on the market.

When it comes to fiberglass, its rigid but flexible structure allows for maximum durability, meaning fiberglass pools can last a lifetime. This is where quality control in production really matters. Using a mold means fewer mistakes in the pool’s structure, and thick, even layers of gel coat make the pool more resistant to scratches and other surface damage. Innovations in fiberglass pool structures, such as the Backfill Eliminator™, help prevent groundwater accumulation and its associated issues. Maintenance and wear-and-tear repair end up costing you significantly less in the long run. And, in contrast to vinyl, fiberglass pools can increase your home’s value.

EACH POOL TYPE’S SAFETY

No matter which pool you choose, we will always shout from the rooftops: “Be careful! Accidents can happen!” Anyone entering or exiting a pool should practice caution. However, fiberglass does a great job of keeping swimmers of all shapes, sizes and species safe as they enter and exit the pool. Non-skid texture applied to the fiberglass pool’s horizontal surfaces along with its algae resistance make it less slippery, and therefore, safer. Features such as multiple entry and exit points, toe ledges and swim outs add both style and safety to a fiberglass pool, and are great for both kids (and pets!) who are learning to swim.

 

Vinyl pools provide a great, smooth surface for your feet that feels fantastic, but smooth plus water can equal dangerous slips and falls. The potential tears we mentioned before can also pose safety risks for your fur babies, so you’ll have to keep an eye out. 

PROBLEMS WITH FIBERGLASS POOLS

So, what are the problems associated with fiberglass pools? Not to toot our own horn here, but fiberglass tends to fare well across the board when it comes to pool durability, maintenance, and safety. Where fiberglass falls short is in custom design and upfront costs. As mentioned previously, fiberglass pools are manufactured based on a mold, meaning that the design of that pool is set in stone. Along with the obvious customization options like shape and placement and design of features (i.e., steps or tanning ledges), fiberglass is also often limited in capacity. Fiberglass pools don’t get much wider than 16 feet and are generally less than 44 feet long (with some exceptions) due to transportation limitations, while pools built onsite can be much larger.

PROBLEMS WITH VINYL LINER POOLS

While vinyl pools have their perks, they also have their pitfalls. This is particularly true with regard to their durability and overall lifetime value. You can’t discuss the potential issues of a vinyl liner pool without strongly emphasizing their tendency to wear and tear by nature, meaning that the liners need to be replaced fairly often (8-12 years on average with excellent pool care). And because a liner can be torn or punctured, these pools are not the best option if you would like your pets to join you for a swim. It’s also important to consider if you want to have a tanning ledge or lounge area in your pool—these features are more difficult to incorporate into a vinyl pool design.

Both pool types have their advantages and disadvantages, so what you choose will depend on your situation and what you are looking for in a pool. If you are looking for a quick-to-install pool with boundless shape and size options and lower upfront costs, then a vinyl liner may be right for you. If you’re wanting a pool that’s lower maintenance, less likely to need repairs, quick to install, and is both comfortable and safe for you and your pets, then fiberglass is calling your name!

If you are leaning towards fiberglass, first of all, we’d just like to say, “Yay!” But more importantly, check out our resources that may help plan your pool journey. Our inground pool cost estimator can give you a ballpark amount for how much your pool project may cost, and our pool selector tool helps you discover which shape and size pool will best accommodate your needs. A local fiberglass pool dealer is always an excellent resource for any questions you may have and is always our number one recommendation.

Reap the Health Benefits of Exercise in Your New Fiberglass Pool

Posted on by krista

Get healthy and have more fun this year in a new fiberglass pool. 

If your goals for the new year include getting healthier and more fit, a new inground fiberglass pool might be just the water exercise, swimming exercise, health benefits of swimming, fiberglass pools thing to help you accomplish those goals. Water exercise has loads of health benefits, including weight loss, increased strength and muscle tone, joint pain relief, improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress, and increased fun (which is also very good for you!)

Choose a fiberglass pool that’s designed for water exercise—one that has wide-open swim lanes and is deep enough to accommodate both lap swimming and water aerobics. You’ll be crushing your health and fitness goals before you know it! 

Let’s take a look at all the amazing health benefits of swimming exercise: 

  1. Weight loss. 

According to Prevention magazine, swimming just 30 minutes can burn between 300-400 calories. Compare that to just 100 calories burned for 30 minutes of brisk walking, and it’s easy to see why swimming is a great choice for folks who want to lose weight. (Not to mention the fact that you’re in the pool cooling off instead of sweating during your workout!) 

  1. Increased strength and muscle tone.

According to Livestrong.com, swimming laps in an inground pool is a great full-body workout. Swimming works your back and shoulders, as well as major muscle groups in your legs and hips. It’s a great core workout as well, particularly when you’re swimming freestyle or doing the backstroke. And if you aren’t feeling like laps, even treading water helps build muscle and strength because the water offers resistance as you move through it. As you gain strength and endurance, you can add water exercises to get even more results.

  1. Joint pain relief. 

Aquatic therapy is an excellent pain management tool for anyone with arthritis, chronic joint pain their backs, knees, hips or necks, or anyone trying to rehabilitate from an injury. An article on PainScience.com suggests that even floating in a swimming pool provides joint pain relief because the water offers relief from gravity, allowing joints and muscles to feel cushioned and safe. Aqua-jogging and other water aerobics reduce inflammation and combine the benefits of reduced joint impact, muscle development and pain relief.

  1. Improved cardiovascular health. 

Studies have shown that swimming lowers blood pressure, which in turn, can reduce the chances of heart attacks and strokes. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), regular cardiovascular exercise, like swimming, also lowers “bad” cholesterol levels, which decreases heart attack risk. 

  1. Reduced stress.  

Harvard Medical School’s online journal addresses how aerobic exercise reduces the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. Exercise also stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators, which means you’ll feel better physically and mentally. 

  1. Increased fun! 

In addition to being a super healthy choice for you, swimming is just plain fun! There’s nothing like the feeling of splashing around in the water, spending quality time with your friends and family and letting the cares of the day fade away. There are tons of games you can play in the pool, and you’ll still get some exercise while you’re having fun! Plus, if you’re having fun while you’re exercising, you’re much more likely to keep doing it. That’s what you call a win-win. 

https://thursdaypools.com/blog/2020/01/09/reap-the-health-…-fiberglass-pool/Ready to wade on in? 

If you’re ready to experience all the amazing health benefits of swimming in your own, private backyard oasis,  it’s time to wade on in with a low-maintenance, inground fiberglass pool of your very own. After just a few months of exercising in your pool, you’ll feel better, look better and be happier! Fiberglass pools are an investment that pays off in every way.Â