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.
Topic: Options & Accessories
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.
Pool Specifications
Water Safety
Some Cool Pool Rules for Kids!
May is designated Water Safety Month, but we think it’s important to be aware of every month.
Water safety for kids is a serious matter. Kids love to be in the water, and making sure they know how to do so safely is paramount. At Thursday Pools, we’re committed to water safety, so we’ve created a fun, interactive video, along with a coloring book called Some Cool Pool Rules for Kids.
In addition to our coloring book, we have the following resources available:
PHTA – Children Aren’t Waterproof
PHTA – Layers of Protection Start with You
PHTA – Entrap Avoidance Guidelines
PHTA – The Sensible Way To Enjoy Your Inground Swimming Pool
PHTA – Pool and Spa Emergency Procedures
Download Our Printable Version
No printer? No problem. Fill out the form below, and we can mail you coloring books.
Please note: This free coloring book is available for shipment within the U.S. only. We do not currently offer international shipping.
How Much Do Add-On Features Add to Pool Cost?
When you’re looking into an inground fiberglass pool, pool cost is often one of the first considerations. While resources like pool cost calculators can provide base package pricing, they might not account for add-on features—both essential and non-essential—that can significantly impact your budget. Think of heaters, lighting, tiling, covers, and more. If your dream pool includes all the bells and whistles, this guide will help you understand how much these features might cost so you can plan and budget wisely.
LED Pool Lighting
LED lights don’t just brighten your pool; they transform it into a stunning nighttime retreat. They provide ambiance and visibility, extending the usability of your pool well into the evening. To achieve the desired effect, you’ll need to calculate the lumens required based on your pool’s size and surface color. You’ll need a minimum of eight lumens per square foot of pool water surface area (which is roughly equivalent to one watt per square foot.) Depending on your pool’s size and the light output (or lumens,) you may need multiple LED pool lights to get the effect you’re after. Keep in mind that the pool surface color can also impact light visibility. The darker the pool surface color, the more the light will be absorbed.
Estimated Addition to Pool Cost: $1,500–$3,500.
Pool Tile
Perimeter tile (also called waterline tile) and inlaid pool tile can dramatically impact the look and feel of a swimming pool. Tile can also designate steps, depths, and ledges to enhance swimmers’ safety. Pool tiles are typically available in ceramic, porcelain, or glass and come in multiple sizes, patterns, and designs. All of these options will impact the cost of your pool tile. The price varies based on material and customization.
Estimated Addition to Pool Cost: $4,500–$8,500 for waterline tile. Custom inlaid tiles and mosaics can cost significantly more. You’ll need to get an estimate from a pool builder for these tile types.
Water Features
From simple additions like deck jets and bubblers to extravagant custom waterfalls, water features can elevate your pool’s look and feel. They’re perfect for adding a touch of fun or a resort-like vibe to your backyard. Deck jets and bubblers are simple water features that add ambiance for less. Higher-end water features like cascades and custom rock waterfalls cost more and offer a luxury experience.
Estimated Addition to Pool Cost: Bubblers range from $1,000 to $2,500 each, while deck jets range from $1,000 to $1,500. Certain cascade/waterfall features can add anywhere from $1,300 to $25,000 to your pool cost.
Pool Heaters (and Chillers!)
Control your pool’s temperature for year-round enjoyment. Pool heaters extend your pool swimming season and allow you to enjoy a quick dip even when temperatures start to fall. Some heat pumps even offer a chiller option whether you live in a warmer climate or just want to keep your pool water cool and refreshing in the hottest part of the summer.
Estimated Addition to Pool Cost: Natural gas or propane heaters cost, on average, between $1,500 to $2,500. Electric pool heaters or heat pumps typically cost about twice as much as natural gas or propane pool heaters; they’ll run between $2,000 -$5,000. The chiller option adds about $1,500-$3,500 to the cost of a standard heat pump.
Pool Covers
Most pool owners in regions where the seasons change choose to purchase some type of pool cover. Options range from basic winter covers to top-of-the-line automatic safety covers. Automatic pool covers provide the security of a safety cover with the additional bonus of automatically opening or closing the pool cover more quickly with the touch of a button. They can also save you money by keeping heat in and debris out, reducing your heating bills and chemical costs. Because they run on a track system, automatic covers are best suited for rectangular-shaped pools, while other pool cover types fit a variety of shapes.
Estimated Addition to Pool Cost: Basic winter covers will cost between $50 and $350, depending on the pool size and material quality. Safety covers are custom-made and cost between $1,700 and $5,000 (considerably more if your pool is multi-tiered.) Installation is an additional cost. Automatic safety covers can range between $12,000 and $17,000 depending on the size of your pool and the mounting style you choose.
Slides
Pool slide options have come a long way in the last decade. Once simple designs now incorporate more complex shapes and water features. If a slide is on your must-have list, be sure to look into safety precautions. Please note: Thursday Pools strongly recommends that slides not be installed or used with its pools, given the inherent dangers associated with slides in residential pools.
Estimated Addition to Pool Cost: Traditional pool slides cost between $4,500 and $6,000. More feature-rich pool slides range from $8,000 to $12,000.
Automatic Pool Cleaners
It’s important to keep your pool clean. Save time and energy with robotic pool cleaners that can handle cleaning so you can focus on enjoying your pool. There are dozens of automatic pool cleaners on the market, and the choices can be overwhelming. Be sure to consult with your pool builder about which brands or types they recommend for your pool, and do your research to see which ones have the functions that meet your needs.
Estimated Addition to Pool Cost: Most automatic pool cleaners range from $1,500 to $3,000. Many of them will also come with optional storage and transportation carts at an additional cost.
Is Owning a Pool Expensive?
Owning an inground swimming pool has definite benefits but isn’t a small purchase. A pool is often one of the larger purchases a homeowner can make when upgrading their outdoor living space.
Consider the upfront costs associated with having the pool installed and the lifetime costs of maintaining the pool. The upfront pool cost will be exactly that – more money you’ll have to pay in one short amount of time. However, maintenance costs must also be considered and will vary based on pool type.
And remember, many of the add-ons we discussed here don’t necessarily have to be included in the initial installation of the pool and may be added on later, so if you think you might like to have these features down the road, be sure to factor those into your overall pool budget. If you’re looking to get some ballpark figures for a fiberglass pool (including many of the add-ons mentioned above), check out our fiberglass inground pool cost estimator. Book a design consultation today if you’d like to have a more direct discussion with a pool builder near you!
Landscaping Your Backyard Swimming Oasis eBook
Landscaping your Backyard Swimming Oasis for Beauty and Easy Pool Maintenance
Discover the perfect plants to surround your pool. (And also the ones to avoid!)
So many beautiful plants in the world… how do you choose the BEST ones to enhance your pool area? Download our ebook to learn how to choose the ideal trees, plants, and shrubs to create low-maintenance, year-round beauty!
Maintenance Tools for Your Inground Pool
Fiberglass pools are a low-maintenance option in comparison to more labor-intensive gunite and vinyl liner inground swimming pools. While fiberglass pools have lower maintenance demands, they are not maintenance-free, and there are many helpful tools and fiberglass pool cleaning equipment you should consider so you can properly take care of your pool and protect your investment. The tools you acquire will make your already-durable fiberglass pool last longer and remain ready to enjoy for as long as possible.
Robotic Pool Cleaners
A robotic pool cleaner is one of the smartest investments you can make in fiberglass pool care. These self-contained machines operate independently of your pool’s pump and filter system. Simply plug them in, place them in the water, and let them get to work.
Equipped with advanced brushes and powerful suction, robotic pool cleaners scrub the pool floor, walls, and even the waterline, removing dirt, algae, and debris that a manual vacuum or skimmer might miss. Many models also use built-in sensors to map your pool’s surfaces, ensuring efficient coverage and sparkling results every time.
The real beauty of a robotic cleaner lies in its automation. Instead of spending your weekends skimming, scrubbing, and vacuuming, you can plan cleaning sessions for when the pool isn’t in use and let the robot handle the heavy lifting. That means you can enjoy more time relaxing poolside and less time worrying about maintenance.
In short, a robotic pool cleaner doesn’t just keep your fiberglass pool spotless—it gives you back precious time to enjoy the pool life you invested in.
Manual Cleaning Equipment
Even though fiberglass pools are easier to maintain than gunite or vinyl liner pools, every pool owner should keep a few trusty manual tools on hand. These tools let you tackle routine cleaning, handle unexpected messes, and keep your pool sparkling between deeper automated or professional cleanings.
Pool Brushes
Every fiberglass pool needs a quality brush with gentle bristles that won’t damage the smooth gelcoat finish. A pool brush helps easily sweep away algae and dirt from steps, benches, and other areas. A quick weekly brush prevents buildup, keeps surfaces smooth, and makes your pool safer and more inviting.
Skimming Nets
Leaves, insects, and debris will always find their way into your pool, but a durable skimming net makes removal easy. Attached to a telescopic pole, a skimmer lets you quickly scoop debris from the surface before it sinks to the bottom or makes its way into the filter system or other equipment. Regular skimming keeps your pool looking pristine and prevents clogging or unnecessary strain on your pool’s filtration system.
Manual Pool Vacuums
While robotic cleaners can handle much of the work, a manual pool vacuum is still a valuable tool for fiberglass pool owners. Manual vacuums connect to your pool’s filtration system or a handheld suction device, allowing you to target problem areas and give your pool a deeper clean when needed. They’re especially handy after storms or heavy use, when extra debris collects in corners or on the pool floor.
Together, these manual cleaning tools form the foundation of smart and responsible fiberglass pool care. With a brush, skimming net, and vacuum in your toolkit, you’ll always be ready to protect your investment, extend the life of your pool, and keep it looking beautiful for years of family fun and relaxation.
Automatic Pool Cover
An automatic pool cover is more than just a convenient add-on. It’s a powerful tool that protects your pool, simplifies your routine, and saves you money over time. With the push of a button, the cover glides across the surface of your fiberglass pool, creating a secure barrier that shields the water from debris, weather, and evaporation.
Automatic covers use a motorized mechanism to extend and retract a reinforced vinyl cover along built-in tracks at the pool’s edge. This smooth operation makes it simple to open or close the pool in seconds without any hassle or heavy lifting.
The benefits of automatic pool covers include enhanced safety and peace of mind, as well as energy savings, lower chemical use, and cleaner water. Perhaps the biggest perk for fiberglass pool owners is how much an automatic cover reduces everyday upkeep. Because your pool stays cleaner, you’ll spend far less time skimming, brushing, and vacuuming. You’ll also notice fewer filter cleanings and less wear on equipment since dirt and debris never reach the water in the first place.
With an automatic pool cover, maintaining your fiberglass pool becomes easier, faster, and more efficient—leaving you with more time to enjoy the water instead of worrying about it.
Keep Your Pool Sparkling For Years To Come
The right tools make all the difference when it comes to caring for your fiberglass pool. From robotic cleaners and brushes to skimming nets and automatic covers, each piece of pool cleaning equipment helps protect your investment, reduce upkeep, and keep your pool ready for fun at a moment’s notice.
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. They’ll answer your questions, guide you through maintenance tips, and help you enjoy all the benefits of a fiberglass pool with confidence. When you spend less time maintaining your pool, you have more time to enjoy it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fiberglass Pool Cleaning Equipment
What tools do I need to keep my fiberglass pool clean?
The basics include a pool brush, skimming net, and manual pool vacuum. These tools let you handle everyday cleaning, remove debris, and target hard-to-reach spots. Many owners also add a robotic pool cleaner and automatic pool cover to save time and keep their pools cleaner with less effort.
Do I still need manual cleaning tools if I buy a robotic pool cleaner?
Yes. A robotic pool cleaner does an incredible job scrubbing floors, walls, and even the waterline, but you’ll still want a brush, skimmer, and vacuum on hand. Manual tools help with quick cleanups, storms, or heavy use when debris collects in corners, on steps, or in areas the automatic robotic pool cleaner cannot reach.
How does an automatic pool cover help with pool maintenance?
Automatic pool covers keep out dirt, leaves, and insects, so you’ll spend far less time skimming, brushing, and vacuuming. They also reduce chemical use, save energy, and help extend your pool season—all while adding an extra layer of safety and protection.
How often should I brush or skim my fiberglass pool?
Plan to give your pool a light brush once a week to prevent buildup on steps and benches. Skimming depends on the season and surroundings—daily during heavy leaf fall or after a storm, but less often if debris is minimal.
Are fiberglass pools really lower maintenance than gunite or vinyl liner pools?
Absolutely. Fiberglass pools have a smooth, non-porous surface that resists algae and reduces the need for scrubbing and chemicals. With the right cleaning tools—like brushes, nets, robotic cleaners, and an automatic cover—you’ll enjoy more time in the water and less time working on it.
How much does fiberglass pool cleaning equipment cost?
Costs vary depending on the tools you choose. Basic items like brushes and skimming nets are very affordable, while most manual vacuums are moderately priced. Robotic pool cleaners and automatic covers are bigger investments, but they save significant time, reduce chemical and energy costs, and extend the life of your pool.
How do cleaning tools help extend the life of a fiberglass pool?
Consistent maintenance prevents the buildup of dirt, algae, and debris that can stress your pool’s surface and equipment. Using the right tools protects your pool’s gelcoat finish, reduces wear on your filtration system, and helps your fiberglass pool look beautiful and perform well for decades.
Lucky 7 Skimmer®
The Lucky 7 Skimmer is the first skimmer in the fiberglass industry specifically designed for fiberglass pools. Manufactured with a 7-degree angle and mounting plate, it provides a better fit for fiberglass pool walls with a slope that typically ranges from five to ten degrees. The Lucky 7 Skimmer features make it easier to install, improve skimming function, optimize water level, and provide a more polished look to a fiberglass pool.
Other skimmers on the market that are created for vinyl or gunite pools don’t account for the slope of a fiberglass pool wall, resulting in the need for extension collars to achieve optimum functionality. The video image below shows the Lucky 7 Skimmer on the left and a traditional skimmer with extensions on the right and demonstrates how the Lucky 7 Skimmer is the perfect fit.
Watch the video to see the difference.
How does the Lucky 7 Skimmer give your pool a more polished look?
The lip that slips into the skimmer opening on a traditional skimmer mounting plate is not wide enough to cover thicker fiberglass pools. While this does not hurt the fiberglass pool, it does not provide the finished look that we recommend. When we designed our fiberglass pool skimmer, we made the mounting plate extend further to ensure the raw fiberglass pool was not exposed. Because our mounting plate is large enough to cover all fiberglass material, the mounting plate provides you with a more polished look.
Why is it easier for dealers to install?
The Lucky 7 Skimmer is manufactured to account for a five to ten-degree draft angle most fiberglass pool manufacturer’s use. The angled skimmer reduces the number of extension collars required to level the skimmer and makes for an easier installation. The angle also allows the pool to reach its optimum water level.
Our Lucky 7 Skimmer is manufactured specifically for fiberglass pools.