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Topic: Fiberglass Pools

Thursday Pools Makes News with Four Trailblazing Fiberglass Pool Innovations

Posted on by krista

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

First of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

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

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

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

Second of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

The Lucky 7 Skimmer®

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

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

Third of the Trailblazing Pool Innovations:

The Backfill Eliminator®

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

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

What’s Next?

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

Fiberglass Pool Durability and More Reasons to Choose Fiberglass

Posted on by krista

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

 

Reason 3: Fiberglass pools install quickly. 

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

 

Reason 6: Fiberglass pools are pet-friendly.

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

 

Reason 7: Fiberglass pools have many design options. 

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

 

Are You Feeling Inspired?

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

 

 

The Top 9 Reasons Pool Builders Recommend Fiberglass Pools

Posted on by krista

fiberglass poolsThinking of getting an inground pool? If so, you’ll have three types of pool to choose from: vinyl, fiberglass and gunite. You’ll probably want to do some research to determine which type of pool most suits you. If you have friends that have previously bought pools, you can ask them what they love about their pools and what they wish they had known before buying a pool.
As with any big investment, it’s good to ask the salespeople what they would choose for themselves. In recent years, pool builders are increasingly recommending fiberglass pools over vinyl and gunite.

Let’s take a look at the top ten reasons why.

  1. Low upfront investment. Of the three types of pools, vinyl typically has the lowest upfront investment, but fiberglass is not far behind. Unless you live in the Sunbelt, gunite will typically have the highest upfront investment.
  2. Quick turn-around times. Fiberglass pool shells typically have a turn-around time of less than a month, so your pool builder can get it quickly, complete your pool project on schedule and get you in the swim!
  3. Less dependent on fair weather. Like all outdoor work, pool installation schedules are affected by the weather. However, vinyl and gunite schedules are affected to a greater degree. Vinyl liners can wrinkle during installation if the outside temperature is too hot or too cold. Temperature swings and rain can wreak havoc on concrete pouring schedules as well. In contrast, fiberglass pools are manufactured in a climate-controlled environment and shipped in one piece so they allow for installation in varying weather conditions.
  4. Innovations. The fiberglass pool industry is seeing rapid innovation, which has resulted in cool new options for pool buyers, such as beach entry fiberglass pools (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). Our pool designs create amazing outdoor entertaining options. Additionally, the beach entry designs are great for both younger and older swimmers who typically need to ease into the water.
  5. Variety of designs. Unlike vinyl, fiberglass pools come with an awesome array of built-in features, like tanning ledges, swim-outs, wide, non-skid steps, courtesy ledges and beverage benches. These features are also available in gunite, but they’ll be part of a custom design.
  6. A sturdy finish. Fiberglass pools are made of multiple layers of hand-laid fiberglass and finished with a fantastic gel coat finish that’s non-skid and durable for years to come. It’s beautiful, and comes in a marvelous array of colors to complement the rest of your outdoor living space.
  7. Human and pet friendly. The non-skid surface of a Thursday Pools fiberglass pool is the perfect combination of non-skid for safety and smooth (for paws, swimmers’ feet and swimsuit bottoms). If having your four-legged family members in the pool with you is important, fiberglass is the only way to go. Vinyl liners can be easily torn by dog’s paws, and the rough surface of a gunite pool can cause a lot of irritation to the pads on their feet.
  8. Lower regular pool maintenance cost. Because of their impervious surface, fiberglass pools require fewer chemicals to maintain water balance than vinyl or gunite. Choose a fiberglass pool that’s automatic pool cover-ready, and get more savings. On top of the obvious safety benefits, automatic pool covers help keep the pool cleaner and further reduce chemical loss.
  9. Dramatically less long-term maintenance. Vinyl liners will likely need to be replaced every seven years or so. Gunite pools will have to be replastered approximately every fifteen years. Fiberglass pools will always maintain their finish if they are properly maintained (i.e. balanced water chemistry).

Sounds pretty great, right? Let’s sweeten the pot with some expert advice from a couple of pool builders who recommend not just fiberglass pools, but Thursday Pools fiberglass pools.

Doug Thoele, owner of W.E.T. Pools and Spas in Effingham, Illinois had this to say:

“This has traditionally been ‘vinyl liner’ country out here. Over the last few years, I’ve spent a lot of time educating my customers about the benefits of fiberglass over vinyl— it’s more durable, lower maintenance and will add to the resale value of their house. And as far as fiberglass pool manufacturers go, Thursday Pools is a top-notch company. They do things right, and their pools are easy to install. And their customer service is fantastic.”

And Matt Miller, of Raft to Rafters in Columbus, Indiana, said this:

“You can’t beat fiberglass pools for durability and ease of maintenance. As far as installation goes, I’m a big fan of Thursday Pools’ Backfill Eliminator®. Anyone who gets a fiberglass pool with a built-in tanning ledge will benefit from this innovation. It makes the ledge feel super solid, and they’ll save money on their pool project, because it makes our job easier. I also really like the fact that Thursday Pools is ISO 9001 certified. Because we’re near Cummins and Toyota, my customers know what that level of quality assurance means, and it makes them feel good about buying a truly quality product.”

Choose fiberglass pools

So, when you’re ready to take the plunge with a new inground pool, choose a fiberglass pool. You’ll have a place to create a lifetime of memories— not to mention a backyard oasis that will provide you with a place to relax, socialize, exercise, and enjoy quality time with the people you love for years to come.

Get a FREE estimate on a new, inground fiberglass pool today.

Fiberglass Pools are the Best Choice for Furry Family Members!

Posted on by krista

If you’re thinking of getting a new inground pool and are wondering which type of pool is the best choice for pets who like the water, read on…

Inground pools are fun for the whole family. If your family includes four-legged kids, don’t forget to consider them when you’re choosing the best swimming pool for your new backyard oasis. When you’re selecting an inground pool, you’ll be choosing between three types of pools: vinyl liner, gunite (concrete) or fiberglass. Each type of pool has its own set of benefits. However, if having a pool that’s dog (or other pet) friendly is important to you, there are some things you need to know. Let’s take a look at the upfront investment, durability factors and ease of entrance and exit on each pool type and see which one gets the furry friend seal of approval!

Vinyl Liner Pools

  • Upfront investment. Folks who are looking for the lowest upfront investment for their pool project will often choose a vinyl liner pool. (However, while low upfront costs are attractive, it’s also important to factor in the cost of vinyl liner repairs and maintenance over time.)
  • Durability factor. If allowing your pets to get in the swim is important to you, you’ll soon find that even small pets can accidentally tear the vinyl liner if their toe nails come into contact with the vinyl. This can lead to the need for repeated repairs and unsightly patching.
  • Ease of entrance and exit. Vinyl liner pools typically have either ladders, composite or fiberglass walk-out steps. Ladders provide no 2nd point of entry or exit for our four-legged friends.

Furry Friend Rating: One.

Low upfront cost of vinyl liner pools can be misleading because repeated repairs to, and replacement of, the vinyl, adds up. For both durability and ease of entrance and exit, vinyl liner pools are not recommended for pet owners. We gave it a one instead of a zero because you could very closely supervise and help your pet in and out of the water.

Gunite (Concrete) Pools

  • Upfront investment. Unless you happen to live in the Sunbelt or other warm, coastal areas, gunite pools typically have a higher upfront investment than vinyl or fiberglass. Pool buyers often choose them for the ability to fully customize a pool project.
  • Durability factor. Gunite pools are more durable than vinyl pools, as there is no liner to repair or replace. However, pool owners should consider the fact that the durable surface of a gunite pool can be very rough on pets’ paws and nails. Gunite pools will also typically require resurfacing over time.
  • Ease of entrance and exit. Because gunite pools are custom, you would be able to have a wide-open step area or beach entry installed that would make it easy for pets to get in and out of the pool. However, you’ll need to keep a watchful eye on pets to ensure they’re not hurting their paws on the gunite surface.

Furry Friend Rating: Six.

Gunite pools do offer better durability as well as ease of entrance and exit (than vinyl liner pools). However, their rough surface can be hard on pets’ paws and nails, especially if they get in and out of the pool numerous times.

Fiberglass Pools

  • pet friendly poolsUpfront investment. In terms of upfront investment, fiberglass pools typically land in the middle of pool cost. Their upfront costs are higher than vinyl liner pools but often quite a bit lower than custom gunite installations. (However, when comparing fiberglass to vinyl, the slightly higher upfront cost is easy to justify due to the dramatically lower maintenance and repair costs over time.)
  • Durability factor. Fiberglass pool owners love their pools because the low-maintenance gel coat finish is easy not just on paws, but on swimsuits and tender human feet as well. With a fiberglass pool, you’ll never have to worry about torn liners or injured paws.
  • Ease of entrance and exit. Fiberglass pools are a dream for pets (and humans) in terms of easy entrance and exit. Many designs have wide wrap-around steps and built-in benches. You’ll also find designs with deep-end swim-outs that both pets and owners alike can use to get in and out of the pool in the shallow or deep-end. Fiberglass pools with built-in tanning ledges make a great spot for pets and kiddos to enjoy the water while still having a place to rest their paws (and tiny feet.) Additionally, fiberglass pools are now also available in beach entry designs for the ultimate way to ease into the pool (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839).

Furry Friend Rating: Ten!

Fiberglass pools are by far the best option for pet owners. With a moderate upfront investment (and years of worry-free, low-maintenance pool ownership ahead,) those who choose fiberglass will have a great spot for swimmers of all types to safely and comfortably enjoy the pool.

So, if you’re thinking of taking the plunge with a new inground pool and would like to bring your furry friends in with you, take a look at the many beautiful fiberglass pool designs Thursday Pools has to offer, and get a FREE estimate today.

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

Posted on by krista

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

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

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

Posted on by krista

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

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

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

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

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

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

What geographic areas do you serve?

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

What do you love about being in the pool business?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What works for you in terms of marketing?

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

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

What are your thoughts on Thursday Pools?

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

You are by this NOTICE advised that pools manufactured by Thursday Pools are sold by independent dealers and dealerships. Each dealer is an independent business entity, that is completely separate from the manufacturer, Thursday Pools. Each dealer is an independent contractor, and no dealer is an owner, agent (in fact or law), or employee of Thursday Pools, the manufacturer. Thursday Pools, the manufacturer, hereby disclaims any liability for an intentional or negligent act by any dealer, dealership, or installer, or any damage to any Thursday Pools pool caused by an act of any dealer, dealership, or installer.

 

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

The Gonzalez Family Gets a Goliath

Posted on by krista

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

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

Here are some factors they’re considering:

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

The Gonzalez family chose the the Goliath by Thursday Pools.

Here’s why:

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

The Gonzalez family has their Happily Ever After:

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

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

Get a closer look at the Goliath pool design.

Take a 360 tour of the Goliath pool design!

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

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

Posted on by krista

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

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

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

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

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

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

    • Are you mostly active pool goers? Do you plan to use your pool for daily exercise or sports? If so, then you want to look for a design that has an open swim lane or an appropriate depth for volleyball. If so, then you may want to look at Thursday Pools designs, like the Goliath, Monolith, Lil Bob, Cathedral or Spirit.
    • Are you mostly laid back pool goers? Do the sun worshippers in your family want to be able to soak up the sun on the weekends? If so, consider a Thursday Pools design with a built-in tanning ledge or sun shelf, like the Aspen, Lil Bob LX, Wellspring, Cathedral LX, Pearl or Sun Day.
    • Is easy entrance and exit a priority? If you have very young swimmers or older family members who need to be able to sit safely in a shallow area or be able to ease in and out of the pool, a zero entry (or beach entry) fiberglass pool, such as the Grace Beach Entry or Sandal Beach Entry design might be a great choice for you (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). Beach entry pools also provide a fabulous spot for themed pool parties!
  1. Listen to the pros. Sure, no one’s backyard is exactly like yours. However, your local, trusted Thursday Pools dealer has seen hundreds of backyards that are probably pretty similar to yours. They’ve helped many other homeowners make the best choice for them, and they can help you avoid costly mistakes in your planning. They can put together an overall design for your pool project that works with the design of your home, your available space and, of course, your budget.

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

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Is your home formal or casual? Large or small? Are you party-throwers, couch potatoes, or game players? Find the Thursday Pools design that’s the perfect match for your family and live happily ever after!

 

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The Langdons Get a Lil Bob | Thursday Pools

Posted on by krista

thursday pools lil bob

Meet the Langdons:

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

The Langdons have decided to get a pool.

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

Here are some some factors they’re considering:

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

The Langdons choose the Lil Bob by Thursday Pools.

thursday pools lil bob

Here’s why:

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

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

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

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

Take a Wet Tour of the Lil Bob!

 

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

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