Shapes & Sizes Archives - Page 4 of 5

The Gonzalez Family Gets a Goliath

Posted on March 5, 2019August 14, 2026 by krista

Meet 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:

The 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 February 28, 2019August 6, 2026 by krista

You’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.

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.
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.
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.
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!

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!

Choosing an Inground Pool Shape for Your Family’s Stage in Life

Posted on February 27, 2019July 15, 2026 by krista

Selecting the right inground pool shape goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about creating a space that fits your family’s lifestyle and stage in life. Whether you are a couple looking for a serene escape or grandparents seeking a safe and accessible pool design, your pool shape can impact its functionality and appeal. Explore inground pool shapes tailored to different family types, ensuring a cherished spot for relaxation, fun, and a lifetime of memories.

Families with Small Children

Families with small children need a pool that prioritizes safety, easy access, and designated shallow areas for play. A well-designed pool for young kids ensures peace of mind for parents and creates a fun and inviting space where children can safely enjoy the water as they grow and gain confidence in their swimming skills.

Key Considerations:

Safety First: Shallow zones, non-slip surfaces, and secure access points are crucial.
Visibility: The pool shape should allow clear sightlines for parents to keep an eye on the kids.
Multi-Level Play Areas: Zones with varying depths cater to toddlers, beginner swimmers, and older children alike.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

Beach Entry Pool: The gradual, sloping entry mimics the feel of a beach, providing an ideal play area for small children. It allows them to enter the water slowly and safely, perfect for toddlers and young kids just getting comfortable in the water. With a gentle slope into the pool, the beach entry is ideal for wading, splashing, and sunbathing.
Wading Pool: A wading pool features a shallow, uniform depth, making it an excellent space for young children to play and for adults to relax. It provides a perfect environment for toddlers and pets, offering peace of mind with its shallow water (typically around 18 inches deep). Look for a non-slip surface and built-in benches for easy supervision.
Plunge Pool: Plunge pools bring depth without taking up too much backyard play space. They’re great for young swimmers getting comfortable with water. They let your kids splash, stand, and play safely while you stay close.
Rectangular Pool: The simple rectangular-shaped pool allows for easy oversight, and a built-in tanning ledge is a perfect spot for small children to splash and play. A defined shallow area is great for play or for parents to relax close to the kids.

Families with Teenage Children

Families with teenagers need a pool that matches their active lifestyle and provides ample space for fun and socializing. From swimming laps to playing water games and lounging with friends, the right pool shape can turn your backyard into the ultimate hangout spot for teens and their friends while ensuring safety.

Key Considerations:

Active Lifestyle: Teenagers often enjoy active water activities like swimming, water games, or just lounging in the pool with friends.
Space for Socializing: The pool should comfortably accommodate groups of friends, with areas for swimming and hanging out.
Safety Considerations: Ensure the design includes proper depth transitions for safe enjoyment.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

Rectangular Pool: Rectangular pools offer plenty of space for swimming laps, water sports, and general relaxation. The shape is versatile for various activities and may include tanning ledges for lounging and socializing, as well as built-in steps and swim-outs for easy entry and exit.
Freeform Pool: Freeform pools are natural and playful, perfect for a fun and relaxed environment. The shape features curved edges that create nooks for relaxation while still offering ample swimming space. Tanning ledges, built-in steps, and wraparound benches enhance their aesthetic and functional value.
Spa: Adding a spa to a pool creates a perfect relaxation zone for teenagers and their parents. It’s an ideal space for resting after an active swim or quiet conversation.

Couples

For couples, a pool is often more than just a place to swim—it’s a retreat for peace, romance, and entertaining close friends. The ideal pool shape should prioritize aesthetics, tranquility, and a touch of luxury, creating a serene environment that enhances the atmosphere of your home while catering to intimate gatherings and quiet moments.

Key Considerations:

Relaxation: Couples often prioritize tranquility, aesthetics, and space for quiet, romantic moments.
Entertaining Small Groups: The pool should provide ample space for socializing.
Elegant Design: A focus on style and elegance with mood-enhancing features.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

Roman Pool: The classic Roman pool shape offers a touch of elegance with its symmetrical design and rounded ends. It provides ample swimming space with a refined, sophisticated look. Elevate the experience with a tanning ledge, wraparound benches, and built-in steps.
Freeform Pool: A freeform pool offers a more organic and flowing design, perfect for creating a tranquil and romantic environment. Its natural, curving shape blends seamlessly into the landscape, adding a sense of elegance and serenity. Tanning ledges, wraparound benches, and built-in steps are perfect for conversation and relaxation.
Rectangular Pool: The sleek and straightforward rectangular pool design makes it a versatile and sophisticated option for couples. This shape is perfect for swimming laps or simply enjoying a quiet, reflective swim. Clean lines create a modern aesthetic, and options for swim-outs, tanning ledges, and built-in steps add form and function.
Plunge Pool: Busy homeowners will love the low-maintenance luxury of a plunge pool. Sleep, minimalist designs save backyard real estate while delivering high-style living. And with fewer chemicals and less upkeep, you’ll spend more time lounging poolside and taking quick dips—and less time worrying about pool chores.
Spa: Spas provide an intimate space for relaxation and hydrotherapy, making them a great addition to any pool area. They offer a perfect spot for couples to unwind, soak in the warm water, and experience the therapeutic benefits of jets, enriching the overall ambiance of the backyard retreat.

Grandparents

Grandparents often seek a safe pool that is easy to access and designed for relaxation and family bonding. With a focus on gentle entry points and versatile spaces, the perfect pool shape allows grandparents to enjoy light exercise, cool off on warm days, and spend quality time with grandchildren in a safe and comfortable environment.

Key Considerations:

Ease of Access: Safety and ease of entry/exit are top priorities, with designs considering limited mobility.
Low Maintenance: Simple designs that are easy to maintain and clean.
Relaxation and Family Time: A focus on relaxation with areas for grandchildren to play safely.

Recommended Pool Shapes:

Freeform Pool: The freeform’s gentle curves are ideal for creating a relaxing environment with designated areas for both lounging and safe play. Beneficial features include non-skid surfaces, easy entry and exit with built-in steps, swim-outs, and enough space for gentle swimming.
Wading Pool: Shallow, versatile pools for relaxing, light exercise, or letting grandchildren splash safely. It’s perfect for older adults who want a low-impact space to enjoy the water. Features often include uniform shallow depth, non-skid surfaces, and benches.
Plunge Pool: Plunge pools bring the joy of safe, shallow water without requiring a sprawling backyard or creating excessive work and responsibilities. Their manageable size simplifies cleaning and maintenance, while built-in steps and comfortable depths make it easier to enjoy time with grandkids. It’s poolside relaxation without the strain—just pure connection and comfort.
Beach Entry Pool: The gradual, sloping entry makes it exceptionally easy to get in and out, catering to all mobility levels. It’s perfect for grandparents and young grandchildren alike, providing an accessible space. The gentle slope mimics the beach feeling and allows for sunbathing, wading, and safe play.
Spa: A spa’s hydrotherapy benefits often appeal to grandparents. The warm water and soothing jets help relieve joint pain and promote relaxation, making it an ideal spot for unwinding.

Get the Right Shape For Your Family: Consult a Pool Builder

Choosing a pool shape brings you one step to creating your dream pool and enjoying many memories with your loved ones. In no time, you’ll look out your window and won’t even be able to remember what your yard looked like before your fabulous new pool.

If you need help selecting a shape, contact a local pool builder. Their years of experience designing pool projects and insights from countless backyards can offer invaluable guidance. Get a design consultation today from an independent Thursday Pools dealer.

The Langdons Get a Lil Bob | Thursday Pools

Posted on February 7, 2019August 18, 2026 by krista

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.

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!

Trending Small Fiberglass Pool Designs for Small Backyards

Posted on February 6, 2019August 7, 2026 by krista

Do you have a small backyard? It’s not a bad thing. While your neighbors are toiling away mowing their sprawling expanses of green, you’ve finished in a snap and are ready to relax with a cold beverage. Wouldn’t it be great if you could enjoy that cold beverage lounging next to (or floating in!) a refreshing small fiberglass pool? Your small yard doesn’t mean you can’t create a fabulous, intimate backyard getaway with a small pool. There are undoubtedly small fiberglass pool designs to suit your tastes and lifestyle.

Small fiberglass pools can make a significant impact on your social life and quality family time, and overall fitness and well-being. And if in your quest for a smaller pool you find yourself asking, “is a fiberglass pool worth the money?” we’d like to assure you that there are resources out there to help you make that determination. Stay tuned until the end for small fiberglass pools F.A.Q. to get more information.

If you know fiberglass is the way for you, check out these four fabulous small fiberglass pool designs from Thursday Pools that can turn your small backyard into a fun zone for the entire swim season. Meet Sea Turtle, Lil Bob, Titus, and Aspen!

Sea Turtle

Every bit of this small fiberglass pool packs a punch with its open swim area and flat-bottom 4’6″ depth. If you’re looking to get more exercise in the new year, Sea Turtle can be outfitted to accommodate a Badu Swim Jet System, which will turn your pool into a water treadmill. A wrap-around bench on either side of the steps increases your area to chat, relax, and unwind. And if you want a spa-like experience after exercising and socializing, this versatile pool design can also be outfitted with therapy jets.

Take a closer look at the Sea Turtle’s features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Sea Turtle has an overall size of 9.5’ x 19.5’.

Elongated benches can be outfitted with spa jets for the ultimate relaxation experience.
A flat-bottom 4’6″ depth is ideal for socializing. Most adults can walk the entire pool without treading water.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Ideal design for swim jet systems like Badu.
Auto-cover ready for ease of maintenance and peace of mind.

Lil Bob

Known as the perfect small pool, Lil Bob is one of Thursday Pools’ top-selling fiberglass pool designs. This fiberglass pool is small in size but big in stature with all the most loved features of Sea Turtle, upsized!

Take a closer look at the Lil Bob’s features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Lil Bob has an overall size of 13.5’ x 27.5’.

Wrap-around, elongated benches create a wonderful conversation area for friends and family.
The flat-bottom 4’6″ depth makes it ideal for entertaining and water fun.
Elegant, full-length entry steps make entering and exiting the pool easy.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Auto-cover ready for ease of maintenance and peace of mind.

Titus

With a classic “Figure 8” shape, Titus adds a simple silhouette to any small yard. This small fiberglass pool goes a little deeper than most other small pools, plunging to a 5’5” depth. You’ll find yourself spending countless hours soaking on the deep-end bench, feeling the stress of the day melt away.

Take a closer look at Titus’ features.

Or, dive into this 360 view!

Key Features

Titus has an overall size of 12’x 26’.

A roomy deep-end bench is a perfect spot to sip your favorite summertime refreshment.
Non-skid surface on the floor, benches, and steps means safety and comfort for swimmers of all ages.
Wide entry steps with seats give you easy in and out, plus a great place to sit and chill.

Aspen

*Note: This Aspen pictured above is in our 16’’ x 40’ size.

Looking for a fiberglass pool with a tanning ledge? Look no further than Aspen. Coming in 5 different sizes, the smallest being 12’ x 25’ with a 5’1” depth, Aspen can make itself at home in almost any yard. This design includes many desired pool features, so the whole family can find a place to have fun.

Take a closer look at Aspen’s features.

Or, jump into this 360 view!

Key Features:

Aspen comes in 5 sizes, ranging from 12’ x 25’ to 16’ x 40’.

Tanning ledge, which is perfect for ledge loungers.
Non-skid surface on the floor, stairs, benches, and tanning ledge is easy on your feet and swimsuit.
An extended bench gives you a place to relax, unwind and socialize.
Dual swim outs and benches provide comfort and convenience in the deep end of the pool.
The courtesy ledge around the deep end gives you a place to stand and rest.
A wide-open swim area makes exercising in your new pool easy and fun.
Auto-cover ready to help you keep your new pool safe and clean.

Small Fiberglass Pool F.A.Q.

Q: What Sizes Do Fiberglass Pools Come In?

A: Fiberglass pools come in a variety of sizes! Our smallest designs come in at 9.5’ x 19.5’ (Sea Turtle) and 15’ x 25’ (Pearl). Our largest measures in at 16’ x 41’ (Goliath). Fiberglass pools tend to not get much larger than a 16’ x 40’-41’ size due to shipping limitations. There are other fiberglass options beyond a traditional pool if you’re looking for something smaller, such as a Wet Deck or a Wading Pool.

Q: Can Fiberglass Pools Be Any Shape?

A: Fiberglass pools are not able to be customized for shape or size. A fiberglass pool shell’s shape and size are determined by the fiberglass pool manufacturers designing them and are produced from a mold.

Q: How Much Will a Small Fiberglass Pool Cost Me?

A: Pricing can vary depending on many factors, including your geographic location, what features and accessories you decide to add on, if there are any permits required in your area and more. Your local fiberglass pool dealer can give you more accurate estimates for where you live. You can also try our inground fiberglass pool cost calculator for a ballpark estimate of your project.

No matter which Thursday Pools small pool design you choose, your tiny patch of grass will be converted into the perfect staycation spot for years of memorable moments. Need some more backyard inspiration? Check out Small Backyard Pool Ideas on a Budget to find just that!!

Get an estimate today.

Ask The General: The Benefits of a Rectangular Pool

Posted on February 5, 2019August 18, 2026 by krista

Dear General-

My family has committed to getting in shape in 2019, and we’ve decided that since we want to have fun doing it, one of the ways we’ll get more exercise is with a new fiberglass pool! There are so many pool shapes and sizes out there—what are the best pools for both exercise and fun?

Signed,

Getting Fit in Fishers

Dear Getting Fit-

First of all, congrats on the decision to get an inground pool. You won’t regret it. In addition to getting in shape together– you’ll enjoy quality time with friends and family.

When evaluating shapes to accommodate both exercise and games, a rectangular pool is your best bet. Let’s take a look at the reasons they’re great from several angles.

They’re excellent for lap swimming. Since you’ve mentioned that exercise is one of your primary goals, a larger rectangular pool makes the most sense because of the wide-open swim lanes and straight sides. While you can also find some large freeform pools with wide-open swim lanes, the uniform length of a rectangular provides plenty of space for multiple swimmers to swim laps side-by-side.
They play nice with automatic pool covers. You’ve heard me talk about how much I like automatic pool covers for so many reasons, such as ease of maintenance, reduced chemical use and peace of mind (safety). Most any rectangular pool is compatible with automatic pool covers, making it easy for your pool builder to install while they’re putting in your new pool.
They’re easier to keep clean. I personally have an “L” shaped pool, but my next pool will be a rectangle. The “L” shape is very functional because you have a deep end along with big shallow end. However, it is very hard (nearly impossible) and expensive to install an automatic cover. Plus, it’s not very compatible with automatic cleaners, so unless you strategically placed return water inlets (eyeballs), surface debris collects in the corners. I’m all for easier pool maintenance, so I’ll vote for anything that simplifies it.
They’re easier (and cheaper) to install. Whether you’re choosing vinyl, fiberglass or gunite, rectangle pools are just easier to install. And since time is money, that means you’ll save a bit when it comes to installing a rectangular pool over other shapes. With a vinyl liner pool, rectangles are easier to square up and level during installation, and the liners fit better in rectangles than they do in freeform pools. Gunite (concrete) rectangular pools are by far easier to frame during construction than shaped pools. And when it comes to fiberglass pools, they’re manufactured in one piece at the factory, so framing isn’t a concern, but the dig specs are much more straightforward with a rectangle. So, no matter which kind of pool you choose, rectangles can be easier on your budget.
You can get the best of both. Maybe you’re thinking, “But General, I don’t like so many straight lines. I want our pool to be unique!” Well, first of all, your pool will be unique because it’s yours. You’ll put your own spin on the furniture, landscaping and accessories. Additionally, when you choose a rectangular pool, that doesn’t mean you can’t have rounded corners, square corners, reversed radius corners or diagonal corners. You can also make your concrete deck any shape you want. So, if you want a lima bean, an “L” or a full-on freeform, you could accomplish that same look with decking all the way around your rectangle pool. And, if you REALLY want it to be unique, get a rectangular beach entry fiberglass pool (Patent US 10,358,837 and 10,472,839). They just came out, so you’ll most likely be the only ones in your neighborhood to have one.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying freeform pools aren’t great. Dome-shaped pools are great. Pools, in general, are great. In a future post, I’ll point out the virtues of non-rectangular pools, but from what you’ve told me about how you want to use your pool, I personally think rectangular is the way to go. Best wishes.

Until next time-

The General

Every month, The General uses his more than 30 years’ experience in the pool business to tackle a topic for curious pool owners. Stay tuned for more helpful pool owner tips and tricks!

The Millers Get a Thursday Pools Monolith

Posted on January 10, 2019August 18, 2026 by krista

Meet the Millers:

Todd, Susan, their kids Lauren (age 7), Camryn (age 5), Susan’s parents, and Stanley, their 10-year-old yellow lab. They live near Indianapolis, Indiana, in Carmel. Todd is an attorney, and Susan is a part-time realtor and full-time mom. She works around 25 hours per week and spends much of her free time chauffeuring the kids to and from swim meets, soccer practice and dance rehearsals. They have active social lives and especially enjoy spending time with Susan’s parents during the summer.

The Millers want a pool.

Getting a pool makes a lot of sense for them because Lauren is on the swim team and Camryn wants to join the swim team (as soon as he’s old enough). This wasn’t immediately a unanimous decision. Susan had to convince Todd just a little bit because he had some concerns about the swimming pool cost. Fortunately, Susan had done tons of research on inground swimming pool financing, and a pool will easily fit within their budget. She also made the point that an inground pool would increase the resale value of their home. (After all, she is a realtor, so she would know…)

Worried that pool maintenance was going to fall on his to-do list and cut into his game-watching time, Todd wanted to know who was going to take care of the pool. Susan assured him that swimming pool maintenance was something they could do as a family, that with a fiberglass pool, it wasn’t as hard as he thought it might be and that there are lots of ways to save time and money on pool maintenance.

Having decided on an inground fiberglass pool as the best bet for them, the only decision they needed to make was which one?

The Millers need to decide which is the best pool for them.

Here are some things that will help them decide:

They have a big yard, and it’s fenced in.
Lauren wants a pool big enough to host pool parties for her swim team.
The whole family likes to play games and get exercise in the water.
Camryn wants to get stronger as a swimmer to beat his sister in races, so he’s hoping for a pool he can swim laps in.
Todd, Susan and the grandparents want a place under their watchful eyes where they can teach the kids how to be safe in the water.
Stanley loves to swim.
Susan wants a place where she and Todd can relax and reconnect at the end of the day.
They all want the pool to be as low-maintenance as possible.

The Millers choose the Monolith by Thursday Pools.

Here’s why:

The Thursday Pools Monolith is big! It’s a deep and large pool that’s big enough for all their friends to party in. (Big enough to hold a whole swim team, in fact.)
The Thursday Pools Monolith has a flat bottom, so Lauren’s swim team can play in-pool games like basketball and volleyball. It’s also a Type 1 diving pool, so they can practice their diving too.
There’s a wide-open swim lane for Camryn to swim laps, but there’s also a 15-inch warning slope for the less-than-strong swimmers who might need a heads-up that they’re approaching the deep-end.
The Thursday Pools Monolith is pet-friendly! It has an awesome gel coat finish and dual swim-outs, so all (especially Stanley) can swim to their heart’s content and easily get in and out of the pool.
The Thursday Pools Monolith is automatic pool cover-ready, so the pool will stay clean when they’re not using it. (And the autocover gives them peace of mind that no one will end up in the pool unattended!)
The dual corner benches make a cozy seat for two where Todd and Susan can chill at the end of the day.

The Millers start living their happily ever after.

Now, the Millers are having a blast with their new Thursday Pools Monolith in their backyard swimming pool oasis. It’s beautifully landscaped, and Lauren’s friends always want to come over and play. All the kids are spending less time on their devices and more time playing together as a family. Camryn’s swimming skills are getting stronger every day, and he’s sure to make the swim team. And Susan and Todd spend quality time together by the pool, counting their blessings and planning for the future. They’re thinking that a spa might be next …

The Millers found their perfect pool, and you can too. Ready to find YOUR happily ever after pool? Contact a dealer today or get an estimate on the inground fiberglass pool of your dreams.

#monolith #perfectpool #ingroundfiberglasspool #funinthesun #happilyeverafter
*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!

Large Fiberglass Pools

Posted on September 14, 2018July 16, 2026 by Karen

Pool owners love fiberglass pools for many reasons. And everyone loves deep and large fiberglass pools. 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 large fiberglass pools, the options 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 when delivering large fiberglass pools.

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

Large fiberglass pools certainly offer more than ample swim area for families, but 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, you’re sure to find the best large fiberglass pools to chose from for you!