Topic: Fiberglass Pools
2024 Idea Book
How to Protect Your Pool Water Balance During the Off-season
As the vibrant days of summer fade into the crisp air of autumn, fiberglass pool owners face the critical task of preparing their pools for the off-season. However, the upcoming period of dormancy does not equate to a halt in maintenance efforts. Instead, the off-season requires a strategic approach to ensure your pool water is neither corrosive nor scaling and will be ready for the next swimming season. Smart homeowners must understand the essential steps for monitoring the pool’s water chemistry balance during the colder months to safeguard against potential damage that winter can bring.
Water Chemistry Challenges in the Off-Season
Fiberglass pools, celebrated for their durability and longevity, are not immune to all the challenges of changing seasons. Fiberglass pool shells are generally resilient against winter conditions thanks to their flexibility, which can withstand stress from freezing temperatures. However, harsh winter conditions can still threaten the water balance and the pool surface if you do not properly winterize the pool. The risk of damage escalates during winter when colder water temperatures can render the water more aggressive. This aggressiveness primarily stems from the water’s chemistry balance shifting with temperature changes, potentially leading to issues that can compromise the integrity of your pool’s finish.
Seasonal Cleaning and Preparation
The first step in your off-season maintenance routine should be thoroughly cleaning your pool. End-of-season cleaning includes wiping down the waterline with a soft brush to eliminate any buildup of debris, sunscreen, body oils, and other contaminants that may have accumulated over the swimming season. Brush all pool surfaces, paying extra attention to corners and steps where algae and bacteria might accumulate. Remove all leaves, debris, and dirt from the water using a skimmer, and vacuum the pool thoroughly to eliminate any settled particles or algae. A clean pool goes beyond attractive aesthetics to create a stable foundation for your off-season water balance efforts.
The Role of a Pool Cover
Investing in a high-quality pool cover offers multiple benefits throughout the year, with its importance magnified during the off-season. A pool cover acts as a barrier against debris, reduces water evaporation, and helps maintain the pool’s water chemistry balance by minimizing external influences.
Especially important for households with children or pets, a properly secured winter pool cover can also prevent accidental falls into the pool. Safety covers can withstand a person’s weight, providing an extra layer of protection when the pool is not in use. More than a convenience, a pool cover offers peace of mind and ensures your pool remains clean, sealed, and safe throughout the winter.
Enjoy the Benefits of Proactive Off-Season Maintenance
The effort you put into off-season maintenance directly impacts the longevity and condition of your fiberglass pool. By taking steps to clean your pool, adjust its water chemistry for the cold, periodically check its balance, and secure it with a pool cover, you protect your investment and make for an easier and more efficient opening in the spring.
A proactive approach ensures your pool remains a source of enjoyment and relaxation for many years without extensive repairs or adjustments when the swim season arrives. Embrace the off-season as an opportunity to ensure your fiberglass pool’s continued health, beauty, and enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Off-Season Pool Water Chemistry
Why is water chemistry so important during the off-season?
Cold water can shift your pool’s chemistry and become more aggressive. Keeping pH, total alkalinity, and calcium in check, and routine use of a stain and scale product, helps protect your fiberglass surface and equipment throughout the winter months.
Do I need to clean my pool before closing for the season?
Yes. A thorough cleaning is essential. Brush all surfaces, skim, and vacuum to eliminate algae, dirt, and debris. A clean pool sets the stage for stable water chemistry all winter long.
What role does a pool cover play in off-season maintenance?
A high-quality pool cover keeps debris, dirt, and leaves out of the water, reduces evaporation, and helps preserve your pool’s chemical balance. Covers make winter care easier and spring openings faster.
Should I check my pool’s water chemistry during the winter?
Yes. Weather permitting, check the water’s balance periodically. Cold water’s chemistry can still shift over time, and making small adjustments ensures it remains stable. Regular checks prevent surprises at spring opening and help extend the life and beauty of your fiberglass pool.
What are the most common mistakes pool owners make during the off-season?
The biggest mistakes include failing to balance water chemistry for colder temperatures, skipping a thorough cleaning before closing, and not using a quality pool cover. Neglecting these steps can lead to algae growth, staining, scaling, or corrosion that makes spring opening more difficult and costly.
How does proper off-season care make spring opening easier?
When you clean, balance, and cover your pool correctly before winter, you prevent debris buildup and chemical imbalances. That means fewer surprises—like cloudy water, stains, or equipment issues—when you reopen. A proactive approach saves time, reduces costs, and helps you start swimming sooner in the spring.
What Does Routine Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Look Like?
Benefits of owning a fiberglass pool include reduced upkeep demands and the guarantee of continuous enjoyment during the warmer months. However, it’s essential to recognize that consistent maintenance efforts are still necessary. Maintaining pool water chemistry is critical to ensure your pool remains a radiant and inviting space to spend time with family and friends.
Starting the Season Right
Opening your fiberglass pool marks the commencement of the swimming season and sets the stage for a season of fun and relaxation. Once you open your pool, commit to conducting daily tests to adjust your pool’s chemistry until the water’s chemistry factors fall within the following ranges:
- pH: 7.2 to 7.4
- Total Alkalinity (TA): 80 to 120 ppm
- Cyanuric Acid (CYA): 30 to 50 ppm
- Calcium Hardness (CH): Less than 120 ppm (do not add calcium)
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Less than 1,500 ppm (or up to 1,000 ppm above your salt level)
This crucial first step ensures your pool water is neither too corrosive nor scaling, protecting the integrity and appearance of the fiberglass gel coat.
Maintaining Chlorine Levels
Once your fiberglass pool’s other water chemistry factors are within the recommended ranges, adding sanitizer maintains chlorine levels within a safe range of 1 to 3 parts per million (ppm), optimal for disinfecting the pool without damaging the fiberglass surface. Monitoring and adjusting chlorine levels is a fundamental aspect of routine maintenance that keeps the water clear, clean, and safe for swimmers.
Weekly Checks and Adjustments
Your pool’s water chemistry can quickly fluctuate even after establishing a balanced baseline due to various events such as changes in swimmer load, weather conditions, organic debris, water evaporation, and more. Perform weekly tests to monitor water chemistry, checking the chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and other factors are within recommended ranges. These regular check-ins help catch and correct minor imbalances before they become bigger issues.
Water Level and Filtration Maintenance
Maintaining the pool’s water level is another vital aspect of routine care. The water level should always be halfway to the top of the skimmer window to ensure efficient filtration and circulation. Regularly check and clean the filter and skimmer baskets to prevent clogs and maintain proper function. Vacuuming your pool to remove debris and sediment keeps the water clearer and reduces the strain on your pool’s filtration system.
Gentle Cleaning for Long-Lasting Shine
The non-porous gelcoat surface of fiberglass pools is highly stain-resistant, making cleaning a breeze. A soft microfiber cloth, sponge, or pool brush with nylon bristles should suffice. Some household cleaners contain harsh chemicals unsuitable for fiberglass pool surfaces and may cause damage over time. Always use cleaners specifically designed for fiberglass pools, as aggressive cleaning agents can damage the gelcoat, leading to unnecessary wear and repair costs. Metal scrapers or putty knives can gouge or scratch the fiberglass when used to remove debris or scale. Avoid using highly abrasive tools such as wire and stiff-bristle brushes or steel wool.
The Value of Prevention
In pool maintenance, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular, proactive care keeps your pool looking and performing its best and extends the life of your investment. Fortunately, the inherent durability and ease of care with fiberglass pools mean that maintaining balanced water chemistry requires less effort than you might think. Test kits and resources such as the Thursday Pools Fiberglass Pool Care Guide can help quickly provide direction on how to balance your pool water best.
Understanding Low Maintenance Isn’t Maintenance-Free
While we celebrate fiberglass pools for their low maintenance needs, it’s important to remember that “less maintenance” doesn’t mean “maintenance-free.” The foundation of a healthy, long-lasting pool is achieving balanced water chemistry through frequent and routine testing, precise adjustments, and regular cleaning. By embracing these responsibilities, you’ll ensure your pool remains a beautiful source of joy, relaxation, and pride.
Looking for more information on fiberglass pool care? Explore Thursday Pools’ Ultimate Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Guide for a thorough look at everything you need to know.
And if you’re ready for personalized advice, connect with a local independent Thursday Pools dealer near you.
Routine Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Frequently Asked Questions
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How often should I test my fiberglass pool water?
Test your pool daily when you first open it for the season until the critical water chemistry factors remain within the recommended ranges. After that, weekly tests help keep chlorine, pH, and alkalinity levels in check.
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What’s the ideal chlorine level for a fiberglass pool?
Keep free chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm. This range keeps the water safe and sparkling without damaging the fiberglass gelcoat.
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How should I clean my fiberglass pool surface?
Use a soft microfiber cloth, sponge, or a nylon-bristle pool brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, stiff brushes, or metal tools that can scratch or damage the gelcoat.
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Where should my pool water level be for proper circulation?
Keep the water level halfway up the skimmer window to ensure the filtration system runs efficiently and helps prevent pump and skimming issues.
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Do fiberglass pools really need less maintenance than other pools?
Yes, it is widely accepted in the pool industry that fiberglass pools are lower maintenance than other pool types. However, “less maintenance” doesn’t mean “maintenance-free.” Fiberglass pools resist algae and staining, so they require fewer chemicals and less scrubbing, but you still need regular testing, cleaning, and filter care to maintain your pool’s aesthetic and longevity.
Five Essential Steps to Maintain Your Pool’s Finish
For many homeowners, the benefit of reduced maintenance responsibilities is influential in their decision to install a fiberglass pool in their backyard. The non-porous surface of a fiberglass pool significantly lessens the likelihood of algae growth and reduces the demand for chemicals to maintain water balance. This inherent characteristic of fiberglass pools substantially contributes to their appeal, offering homeowners more time to enjoy their aquatic sanctuary with less laborious upkeep. However, it’s crucial to understand that “lower maintenance” does not equate to “maintenance-free.” Maintaining your pool’s vibrant, smooth finish is just as important as keeping the water clear and inviting. While the allure of crystal-clear water is undeniable, the unseen balance of water chemistry plays a crucial role in preserving the integrity and appearance of your pool.
Step 1: Use a Stain and Scale Control Product Regularly
Even well-balanced water can carry minerals that deposit on your pool’s surface, leading to staining or scale buildup. A reliable stain and scale control product helps prevent fiberglass pool discoloration with chelating agents that can effectively shield your pool from calcium. In our experience, products like SC-1000 by Orenda and Scale & Stain Eliminator by Pool Stain Removers work well and should be part of your regular pool maintenance routine.
Step 2: Maintain Chlorine Levels Between 1-3 ppm
Chlorine protects your pool from harmful bacteria and algae. While chlorine is essential, too much can harm your pool’s finish. Keep free chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm. Beware of exceeding 5 ppm, as high chlorine levels can cause irreversible damage to your pool’s surface, leading to discoloration and degradation of the gelcoat.
Step 3: Avoid Calcium Hypochlorite
While calcium hypochlorite is common in various pool contexts for shock treatments, it poses risks for fiberglass pool surfaces due to its propensity to elevate pH levels and deliver a high dose of free chlorine. Liquid chlorine is a preferable alternative, offering a safer means to manage pool hygiene without the associated risks of calcium hypochlorite. Nevertheless, vigilance is required to prevent the adverse effects of excessive chlorine, ensuring the pool’s surface remains pristine.
Step 4: Keep pH Between 7.2 and 7.4
Maintaining a pH range between 7.2 and 7.4 keeps your chlorine effective and protects the pool’s surface. A pH above 7.6 can contribute to scaling and discoloration, while a pH that’s too low can lead to etching. Regular testing and adjustments help keep this critical pool maintenance parameter within range.
Step 5: Maintain Calcium Hardness Below 120 ppm
Fiberglass pools don’t need the same high calcium levels as concrete pools. Keeping calcium hardness less than 120 ppm helps prevent scale buildup and maintains the beauty of your surface finish. Do not add calcium-based products. If your water’s calcium hardness is greater than 120 ppm, use a chelating stain and scale control product to prevent scaling and discoloration.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Assume Your Pool Pros Know it All!
The pool maintenance industry is constantly evolving, with new products and refined best practices emerging regularly. As a pool owner, staying informed about these developments is beneficial to ensure your pool receives the best care possible.
Engage with your pool maintenance professionals and inquire whether they are familiar with specific parameters for fiberglass pools. Fiberglass pools are unique, and maintenance pros should treat them as such.
By following these five essential tips and staying on top of your water chemistry, you’ll protect your pool’s beauty and performance for years to come. Pool ownership is a journey. When you have the right knowledge, it’s a journey you can enjoy with confidence.
Looking for more information on fiberglass pool care? Explore Thursday Pools’ Ultimate Fiberglass Pool Maintenance Guide for a thorough look at everything you need to know.
And if you’re ready for personalized advice, connect with a local independent Thursday Pools dealer near you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maintaining a Fiberglass Pool Finish
How do I protect my fiberglass pool’s finish?
Test your water often, keep chlorine between 1-3 ppm, maintain pH between 7.2-7.4, and use a stain and scale control product that chelates calcium. These steps prevent discoloration, scaling, and surface damage.
Why should I avoid calcium hypochlorite in a fiberglass pool?
Calcium hypochlorite raises pH and delivers a strong chlorine dose that can harm your pool’s gelcoat. Use liquid chlorine instead to sanitize safely.
What calcium hardness level works best for fiberglass pools?
Keep calcium hardness below 120 ppm. Higher levels can cause scale buildup and discoloration. Use a stain and scale control product that chelates calcium if you have naturally hard water with high calcium hardness, such as SC-1000 by Orenda or Scale & Stain Eliminator by Pool Stain Removers.
Does clear water always mean my pool water is balanced?
No. Water can look crystal clear but still be corrosive or scaling. Always test and adjust based on the LSI balance, especially as water temperature changes.
Should I rely on a pool service professional for water balance?
Stay informed and ask questions. Fiberglass pools require specific care, and not every pool professional knows the latest best practices. Double-check your pool’s water chemistry balance yourself regularly.
Fiberglass Pool Water Chemistry
Help ensure the longevity of your fiberglass pool by practicing proper pool water chemistry. Learn how to safeguard your pool from damage with expert insights and tips.
Warranty
Is a Fiberglass Pool Shell Right For Your Pool?
If you are looking into buying and researching inground pools, you have likely discovered that pool forms are made of concrete, vinyl-liner, or a fiberglass pool shell. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at fiberglass pool shells so you can determine if one may be right for you.
What is a fiberglass pool made of?
Fiberglass has become a well-known material in the past 50 years. It’s used to make boats, automobile parts and, of course, pools! Fiberglass material is quite literally fibers of glass. In the manufacturing process, fiberglass is flexible and thin, almost hair-like. Unlike hard, solid shards of glass, fiberglass doesn’t shatter or cut you because the fibers are heated until they’re molten and become a sticky, gooey texture. It is then forced through superfine holes that create glass filaments that are so thin that they are measured in microns.
These thin threads of fiberglass are woven into larger swatches of material. For strength and durability, a fiberglass pool shell is made of more than fiberglass. What makes the material even stronger than metals by weight is the thermoplastic polymer resins that are added.
Through years of testing and our commitment to continuous improvement, Thursday Pools has developed durably-crafted composite pools. We’ve gotten our fiberglass pool shell recipe just right by manufacturing it in multiple layers of the best available ingredients.
We take quality and durability seriously. To assess precisely how many layers of strength are needed throughout high-stress points and each area of the pool, our engineers conducted finite element analysis (FEA). The results affect how many layers of the following ingredients will be required throughout the pool shell.
- Gel Coat
Our pool surface gel coat is designed to last and look luxurious. It’s smooth, resistant to algae, and a dog’s claws won’t cause a scratch. Thursday Pools uses a high-quality gel coat so you can feel confident in your purchase, knowing that your pool surface is one of the most tested and reputable on the market. - Vinyl Ester Resin Barrier Coat
Our vinyl ester resin barrier coat helps enhance the longevity and performance of the fiberglass structure by providing an additional layer of protection against moisture and chemical degradation. Our vinyl ester barrier coat prevents potential blistering and protects the surface finish of your pool. - Chopped and Hand-Laid Fiberglass
For several pool layers, fiberglass is combined with 100 percent isophthalic polyester resin and no fillers. This type of resin is used where strength and durability are a must. Despite the costs and time involved, Thursday Pools uses both equipment-applied chopped fiberglass and hand-laid applied fiberglass to achieve the optimal physical properties that a best-in-class fiberglass pool requires. - Custom Stitch Mats
Our hand-laid stitch mats provide additional strength, stability, and reinforcement. The stitching helps hold the fibers in place, preventing them from shifting or becoming misaligned, enhancing the pool shell’s structural integrity and impact resistance.
Honeycomb Core
Thursday Pools uses a honeycomb core structure to add vertical and horizontal supports throughout the pool. This construction technique applies to all horizontal surfaces above the floor, such as steps, benches, and tanning ledges. It is also reinforced in vertical strips along the pool wall.
Should I buy a fiberglass inground pool?
Fiberglass pool shells are beautiful, durable, and even somewhat flexible, making them more able to withstand weather conditions and ground movement. The malleability of fiberglass also allows us to create unique features such as sun shelves, tanning ledges, benches, swim-outs, steps, and even a zero entry. Here are some other questions to ask:
- What shapes and sizes do fiberglass pool shells come in? We manufacture a variety of fiberglass pool shapes to fulfill your backyard dreams. We craft our pools to fit how our customers use them the most—rectangle, freeform, big, and small. We have a pool for every personality and yard type! Our smallest pool (the sea turtle) is 9.5′ x 19.5′ and 4’6″ deep while our biggest pool (the Goliath) is 16′ x 41′ and 6’8″ deep. Plus, we build just about every size in between.
- How long do fiberglass pools last? Can a fiberglass pool last 50 years? Yes! Fiberglass pools will last well over 50 years if you get it through a reputable manufacturer that uses high-quality materials and if the installation is done properly. We inspect each pool shell thoroughly before shipping it out and only distribute our pools through our dealer network to ensure proper installation.
- If anything were to go wrong (and we hope it doesn’t), we’ve got you covered! Our 15-year surface warranty will warrant the surface of the pool from osmotic blistering. And our one-time transferable 35-year structural warranty protects against any leak due to structural failures caused by workmanship and material used in the manufacturing for the lifetime of the pool.
- Are fiberglass pools affordable? When shopping for a fiberglass pool, how much do fiberglass pools cost? is probably one of the first questions you’ll ask. The cost of a fiberglass pool will vary depending on your particular project, pool size, and even where you’re located. That said, the average cost of an inground pool is $45,000 – $65,000.
Every inground pool install is unique. There may be hidden cost factors that you will need to consider, such as site preparation, access, permits, fencing, restoration, electrical, and dirt hauling. Click to get an estimate, or try using our pool cost calculator. It will give you a ballpark figure based on the size of the pool and other items that are unique to your project. For more information, contact a dealer in your area!
Large and Deep Fiberglass Pool Options
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!
What Can Damage a Fiberglass Pool?
It’s only natural to want to do as much research as possible before making a significant decision and investment into a major home addition like an inground fiberglass pool. You’ll want to learn and consider details such as installation costs, maintenance responsibilities, and how long it will last. A durable pool shell helps protect your investment, so you’re likely asking questions like, “What can damage a fiberglass pool?” or, “Can you scratch a fiberglass pool?” Worried about fiberglass pool gelcoat problems or bulging walls? Understanding how common fiberglass pool damage can happen can help you prevent it with your pool or know when repairs are necessary.
Common Causes of Fiberglass Pool Damage
Fiberglass pools are famously durable, but they’re not indestructible.
Structural Stress
Improper installation or soil movement can place uneven pressure on the pool shell, leading to bulging walls or cracks. Professional repair and proper backfilling during installation are essential to restore stability.
Sharp or Heavy Objects
Dragging metal, glass, or other sharp items across the surface can scratch the gelcoat finish. Shallow scratches may buff out, but deeper damage may require a gelcoat repair.
Improper Draining
Completely draining a fiberglass pool without professional supervision can allow groundwater pressure to push against the shell, causing cracks or shifting. Always work with a qualified installer if your pool needs draining.
Harsh Cleaning Tools
Wire brushes, stiff bristles, or metal scrapers can scratch or gouge the gelcoat. Stick with soft cloths, nylon brushes, and fiberglass-safe cleaning products to keep the surface smooth and shining.
Extreme Weather
Ground freezing, flooding, or other severe weather events can stress the pool’s structure if it isn’t properly protected. Preventive measures like winter covers and proper water balance help reduce the risk.
Pool Water Chemistry
Imbalanced water doesn’t always cause direct visible damage, but it creates conditions that accelerate staining, scaling, or gelcoat deterioration. Keeping water properly balanced protects your pool’s beauty and performance for years.
How Does Fiberglass Pool Chemistry Protect Against Pool Damage?
Water chemistry can be tricky for pool owners to master, but understanding how it works and best practices can help ensure the best preventative care possible for your pool shell. Fiberglass pool shells developing discoloration and turning a chalky white is often a result of a water chemistry imbalance.
Fiberglass pool surfaces are very durable, but they are not indestructible. Water balance is vital to ensuring surface finish protection in your fiberglass pool. Balanced pool water is neutral, meaning that the water is neither corrosive nor scaling.
High calcium levels can contribute to rising pH, leading to white deposits and surface discoloration on your fiberglass pool. With elevated calcium and pH levels, the result is often irreversible damage to the gelcoat finish. The good news? It’s also 100% preventable with proper water care.
Our fiberglass pool owner’s manual recommends calcium levels remain below 120 parts per million (ppm). Source water can often run above 120 ppm, in which case using a stain and scale control product is imperative. In our experience, Pool Stain Remover’s Scale and Stain Eliminator and Orenda’s SC-1000 do a good job chelating calcium and keeping it from discoloring your pool finish.
We recommend keeping chlorine residual levels in your pool between 1 and 3 ppm. Exceeding 5 ppm can damage the pool surface.
The pH level, which measures the acidity or basicity of water, should be between 7.2 and 7.4. Total alkalinity measures the amount of bicarbonate material in pool water and indicates the water’s capacity to withstand changes in pH. We recommend total alkalinity levels between 80 and 120 ppm.
Finally, cyanuric acid prevents the decomposition of free chlorine in the pool water. As a stabilizer for chlorine, we recommend cyanuric acid levels be between 20 and 50 ppm. As levels rise above 100 ppm, chlorine is not as effective at killing bacteria and algae.
Preventing and Fixing Fiberglass Pool Issues
Discoloration and Residue: Regular water testing, maintaining proper water chemistry, and certain equipment add-ons can prevent discoloration and deposits on a fiberglass pool’s surface by suspending calcium and reducing the need for high levels of chlorine. Getting guidance from a local pool maintenance professional is often the best way to address discoloration and residue issues, but homeowners can usually perform effective maintenance methods.
Spider Cracks: Fiberglass pool gelcoat repair methods are available to restore the gelcoat after cracking. Your independent pool builder or maintenance professionals will be able to point you in the right direction for obtaining gelcoat repair services.
Pool Wall Bulging: Bulging in fiberglass pool walls can happen when groundwater pressure combines with the ground’s natural tendency to shift, but it is often due to incorrect installation practices. The best way to prevent wall bulging is to choose a manufacturer that accounts for both flexibility and rigidity in their pools’ structures. Some innovations, like the Thursday Pools Geo-Anchoring Pool Wall®, provide additional structural support by anchoring the pool to the earth to help prevent bulging or shifting.
Prevent Damage and Protect Your Pool
We always applaud those who do their research before splashing into the world of fiberglass pool ownership. To learn more about preventing and repairing potential fiberglass pool damage, connect with a local independent Thursday Pools dealer near you.
Fiberglass Pool Damage Frequently Asked Questions
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Can a fiberglass pool crack?
Yes, but it’s uncommon. Cracks usually result from improper installation, soil movement, or draining the pool without professional oversight. Working with expert installers and following proper backfilling and drainage practices minimizes the risk.
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What causes scratches on a fiberglass pool surface?
Scratches happen when sharp or heavy objects (like metal, glass, or rough brushes) drag across the gelcoat. To protect your finish, always use fiberglass-safe cleaning tools, pool toys, and accessories.
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Is it safe to drain a fiberglass pool?
Not without professional help. Fully draining a fiberglass pool can allow groundwater pressure to push against the shell, leading to cracks or bulging, and it may void your warranty. Always consult a pool professional before lowering the water level in a fiberglass pool.
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How does water chemistry damage fiberglass pools?
Imbalanced water can discolor the gelcoat, cause chalky buildup, or shorten the life of your pool’s finish. Keep pH (7.2–7.4), chlorine (1–3 ppm), calcium hardness (under 120 ppm), and alkalinity (80–120 ppm) within fiberglass-specific ranges to protect your pool.
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What should I do if my fiberglass pool develops discoloration or bulging walls?
Discoloration often improves with proper water balance and stain prevention products. Bulging walls require professional evaluation, but structural innovations like Thursday Pools’ Geo-Anchoring Pool Wall® can help prevent the problem in the first place.