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Topic: Options & Accessories

Top Accessories to Complete Your Beach-Entry Pool Experience

Posted on by kristin

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

 

1. Elegant Loungers

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

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

 

2. Premium Shade Options

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

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

 

3. Floating Luxury

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

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

 

4. Water Features: Beauty in Motion

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

 

5. Poolside Fire Features

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

 

6. Poolside Lighting for Evening Magic

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

 

7. Smart Pool Automation Systems

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

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

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

 

8. Outdoor Kitchens and Bars

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

 

Set the Stage

 

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

Winter Pool Safety Covers and Other Fiberglass Pool Winter Maintenance Tips

Posted on by kristin

Thursday Pools Automatic Pool Cover

Your pool is probably not at the top of your mind during winter. However, it still requires some attention during the colder months. From covering the pool to managing water levels and safeguarding your equipment, winterizing your fiberglass pool will prevent accidents, protect your investment, and ensure a smooth reopening when the weather warms up. Beginning with winter pool safety covers, consider the following top tips as part of your cold-weather  pool maintenance routine.

Buy a Winter Pool Safety Cover

Fiberglass pools are durable, but they still require protection during winter to remain in optimal condition for Spring reopening. Investing in a safety-rated cover designed for your fiberglass pool can not only help protect your pool but also people and pets. Winter pool safety covers also help maintain cleaner water, making reopening the pool in Spring much more manageable by requiring less time and fewer chemicals to bring the water back to swimmable conditions. 

Your safety cover should fit tightly over the pool and have no gaps along the edges. Non-automatic winter pool safety covers are typically anchored to the surrounding deck. Make sure the anchors are in good condition and securely fastened. If you notice any signs of wear or loosening, address these immediately to ensure the cover remains in place all winter. Automatic safety covers provide strong, reliable protection and are often rated to hold substantial weight. One of the benefits of an automatic pool safety cover over a standard winter safety cover is the ease of taking a peek periodically at your water level.

Winterize the Pool Water & Equipment

Winterizing your fiberglass pool goes beyond just covering it. You also need to prepare the water, plumbing, pumps, and filters for freezing temperatures. First, be sure to have the pool water tested prior to closing to ensure all levels are within the desired ranges. Allow enough time to make any necessary adjustments. Keep in mind, you do not need to add additional chlorine to get through winter months. The desired levels will meet desired demand as long as you open early in the spring before temperatures begin to rise. Never add Calcium Hypochlorite which is found in some shock treatments, use liquid chlorine or non chlorine shock options. Stay on top of your stain and scale maintenance doses as well. Some winterizing kits include a winterizing stain and scale control product. Clean the filter thoroughly. Backwash sand or DE (Diatomaceous Earth) filters. Rinse and store cartridge filters. Turn off the power and drain all water from the pump, filter, and plumbing by removing the drain plugs and blowing out the lines with an air compressor.

Add pool-specific antifreeze to the skimmer and return lines to protect against freezing. Cover the pump and filter with a weatherproof tarp to shield them from snow and ice. Store smaller parts like pump baskets and pressure gauges indoors, and check your equipment periodically throughout the winter to ensure it remains protected and functional for Spring.

Maintain Pool Water Levels Throughout the Winter

Fiberglass pools can be affected by fluctuating water levels during the winter. If water levels become too high under the cover, overflow can strain the pool’s shell and cause fiberglass cracks. Use a submersible pump to drain the excess. On the other hand, draining the pool too low can lead to a “floating” pool, where the pool shell lifts out of the ground, especially in areas with high water tables. You can equalize the water pressure around the pool by adding water to your pool before pumping water off your cover.

Your water line should never dip below the skimmer level in a fiberglass pool, including during winter when it’s not in use. We recommend maintaining the water level to just below the midway point of your skimmer. This level helps balance the water inside your pool with the groundwater throughout the freezing weather.

Keep the Safety Cover Clear

Regardless of your safety cover type, too much snow and ice accumulation can place dangerously excessive weight on your winter pool safety cover. And while they may seem harmless, leaves, dirt, and twigs can degrade the material of the cover over time. To prevent potential damage and make your cover last longer, clear all debris and snow from your pool cover as soon as possible.

Always use soft tools like a broom or a pool cover rake to clear your cover. Avoid sharp tools, which can tear or puncture the cover. Ice, in particular, should be left to melt naturally to avoid damaging the cover or the fiberglass shell beneath.

Supervise the Pool Area

Even in the winter, when no one is swimming, it’s important to ensure the pool area remains secure. Never allow family members or guests to walk on the pool cover, even though it may appear sturdy. Also, consider installing a fence with a self-locking gate to prevent unauthorized access to the pool area. Of all the safety measures you can take, supervision is the best way to prevent accidents around your pool.

Consider Professional Help for Winter Fiberglass Pool Maintenance

While the previous tips can help you protect your pool, you may feel more confident enlisting the help of a pool professional. An experienced pool pro can properly fit and secure a winter pool safety cover and prepare your pumps and filters for freezing temperatures. Contact a pool professional near you for advice, and continue to explore more  pool maintenance advice.

Find The Inground Pool Shapes & Sizes Right For You

What Can Damage a Fiberglass Pool?

Posted on by megwalker

 

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

 

  1. 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.

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.

 

 

Everything You Need To Know About Beach Entry (Or Zero Entry) Fiberglass Pools

The Best Robotic Cleaners For Inground Fiberglass Pools

Posted on by kristin

Every fiberglass pool owner should have a thorough and working knowledge of necessary pool maintenance. It’s essential to stay on top of care and maintenance from the time you open your pool in the spring through closing it for the winter. Robotic pool cleaners can be a great help when it comes to keeping dirt and debris out of your pool, saving you time and effort. With an overwhelming amount of options available on the market, all with various features and benefits you may or may not need, deciding on a robotic pool cleaner can feel overwhelming. In our experience, the following four models are great at getting the job done while you sit back and relax.

 

Hayward TigerShark

 

A Hayward TigerShark robot can clean a 20’ x 40’ pool’s floors, walls, and waterline in just three hours. There are three configurations to choose from, including the standard TigerShark, the TigerShark Plus with remote control capabilities, and the TigerShark QC featuring a patented 90-minute quick-cleaning alternative mode. All the TigerShark models have an easy-to-clean cartridge filter system and a 24-volt motor to conserve energy and save you pool maintenance costs over time.

 

Thursday Pools TigersharkAverage Price: Less than $1,500

 

Highlights:

  • Easy-to-clean cartridge
  • Lightweight design
  • On-board pump for intense vacuum power
  • Pool length: Up to 40 feet
  • 1- to 3-year warranty depending on model
  • Cordless
  • Programmable

 

Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus with Wi-Fi

 

Dolphin’s Nautilus CC Plus with Wi-Fi features an award-winning design backed by more than 25 years of technology innovations. The unit weighs less than 21 pounds and includes a 2.5-year warranty. A swivel system enables tangle-free operation, and a smart navigation system allows the vacuum to clean a pool in approximately two hours. The Nautilus CC Plus features rubber tracks that grip the pool surface in order to get into tight corners, up walls, and across tanning ledges. A fine filter traps algae, dirt, bacteria, and biofilm, while a high-RPM system provides a deep clean.

 

With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can run the Nautilus CC Plus from anywhere with just a few taps on the cleaner’s smartphone app.

 

Thursday Pools' dolphin robotic cleaner for inground fiberglas pools.Average Price: Less than $900

 

Highlights:

  • East-to-clean cartridge
  • Lightweight design
  • Pool Length: Up to 33 feet
  • 2.5-year warranty
  • Swivel cables for tangle-free operation
  • Programmable

 

Polaris 9450 Sport

 

The Polaris 9450 Sport is a lightweight robotic cleaner that can clean your pool in less than two hours. The “Aqua Trax” tires enable the Polaris to move freely across floors, steps, and walls. It has a navigation system that automatically controls the robot’s position, providing cleaning coverage without hang-ups. The 9450 Sport uses Polaris’s Vortex Vacuum technology that filters out particles and quickly gathers large debris. With a seven-day programmable timer, you can customize your settings and select the cleaning modes that work best for you. After cleaning, the 4950 Sport surfaces at the touch of a button, waits for you to grab it, then automatically evacuates water for effortless removal from the pool.

 

Thursday Pools' polaris robotic cleaners for inground fiberglass pools.Average Price: Less than $1,000

 

Highlights:

  • Easy-to-access filter canister
  • Lightweight design 
  • Easy to remove from the pool
  • 2-year warranty
  • Programmable

 

Aquabot X4 

 

The Aquabot X4 is ideal for all pool shapes and sizes with its 4WD non-marring, high-grip wheels for superior traction. The X4’s ultra-fine mesh filter baskets capture dirt, debris, and fine particulate down to 2 microns in size. The Anti-Tangle Swivel prevents the rover from getting hung up, and the straightforward interface makes it easy to operate and program. You can choose cleaning cycles between one and two hours long while programming for it to run automatically every 48, 72, or 96 hours.

 

Thursday Pools' robotic cleaner for inground fiberglass pools called the aquabot.Average Price: Less than $800

 

Highlights:

  • Easy-to-access filter
  • Lightweight design
  • Pool Length: Up to 60 feet
  • Energy-efficient
  • 3-year warranty
  • Programmable

 

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 Robotic Pool Cleaners

 

Do robotic pool cleaners work with fiberglass pools?

Yes. Robotic pool cleaners work great with fiberglass pools because they use gentle brushes and smart navigation systems that scrub floors, walls, and waterlines without scratching the gelcoat. They lift algae, dirt, and debris while saving you time compared to manual cleaning.

 

How much do robotic pool cleaners cost?

Most high-quality robotic pool cleaners cost between $800 and $2,000. Prices vary based on features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, programmable timers, and quick-clean modes. While the upfront cost may feel significant, a robotic pool cleaner saves you money long-term by reducing chemical use, conserving energy, and extending the life of your pool equipment.

 

Do I still need other cleaning tools if I have a robotic pool cleaner?

Yes. Robotic cleaners handle most of the heavy lifting, but you still need a pool brush, skimming net, and manual vacuum for quick cleanups or after storms. These tools complement your robotic cleaner and make sure every corner of your fiberglass pool stays spotless.

 

How long does it take a robotic pool cleaner to clean a pool?

Cleaning time depends on the model and pool size. Many robotic cleaners can clean an average 20’ x 40’ fiberglass pool in two to three hours. Some models even feature quick-clean settings that finish in as little as 90 minutes.

Small Fiberglass Pools

Everything You Need to Know About Inground Pools: Comparing Fiberglass, Vinyl, and Gunite Options

Whether you’re making a mad dash to the end or first dipping your toe into the wading-area waters of inground pool ownership, this guide includes everything you need to know to compare the three inground pool types. From installation processes and long-term maintenance needs to overall costs and exciting design possibilities, you’re in the right place to begin your inground pool conversation and compare fiberglass, vinyl liner, and gunite (concrete) pools.

Double-O7 Skimmer®

Skimmers® Exclusively for Fiberglass

Thursday Pools has two skimmers specifically designed for the unique aspects of fiberglass pools. They are the first skimmers designed with a 7° angle and special mounting plate to provide a more polished look after installation. Not only do our skimmers look better, but they’re easier for your dealer to install.

 

Skimmer Features

7° angle for easy installation. Our skimmers are manufactured to account for the five to tenth degree draft angle most fiberglass pool manufacturers use. The angled skimmer reduces the number of extension collars required to level the skimmer, makes for an easier installation, and allows the pool to reach its optimum water level.

Mounting Plate. The lip over the opening on a traditional skimmer’s mounting plate is not wide enough to cover the thickness of fiberglass pools. The Lucky 7  and Double-O7 Skimmers’ lip extends farther to ensure the raw fiberglass pool edge is not exposed, providing a more finished look.

 

The Double-O7 Skimmer® (US Patent 10,961,736) adds a few additional benefits to your pool.

  • Easily allows for maximum skimmer height and position.
  • The sleek design matches LED lights, returns, bubblers, and other round features of your pool.
  • A simple 6 7/8” standard circular hole cut helps with easy installation.

 

Please note: the Double-O7 Skimmer® is an option on all of our fiberglass pool designs; however, it does not come standard on any of them.

 

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