Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purchasing process for an inground pool?

First, you should call the office or submit a webform. The owner, Robb Brinkmann, will email you a welcome packet that has more information. He will then text you a message and schedule a meeting with you. These meetings are typically two hours long. During this meeting, you are able to walk in our empty pool models, visit our display pool, and learn all about pumps, heaters, filters, shapes, sizes, colors, and prices. To come prepared, we would appreciate it if you gathered a survey to give us a more in depth view of your property.

How much does a pool cost?

There are many factors that go into the cost of a pool such as equipment, size, and extra features.Typically, fiberglass pools are slightly more expensive than liner pools, but less than gunite, or concrete pools. The short answer is 70k-90k for a basic pool. Additional equipment and features can bring that price up to 100k-125k, and further with features like slides or laminars. This pricing does not include concrete, fencing or electrical.

Can you help me learn about water chemistry?

At Brinkmanns, we offer free water testing. We will be able to tell what your levels are, educate you on what happens, and explain what the best action is to move forward. All we ask is that you know your gallons (or the dimensions of your pool) and that your water is above 70 degrees so we can get the most accurate results.

We also have a pool school every spring to help refresh your mind about water chemistry and your pool equipment. Please call to find out the date of this spring's pool school, or feel free to watch our youtube video here.

Can my dogs swim in the pool?

Yes! Fiberglass pools are great for dogs to swim in. Their nails won't rip the fiberglass or create tears. You and your dog can both enjoy the summer heat with a fiberglass pool. We recommend you use skimmer socks to help collect their hair to keep your pool clean!

Do you service any type of pool?

Our service encapsulates many different areas. Since we specialize in fiberglass pools, we will service everything on a fully fiberglass pool whether it is a Brinkmann pool or not. For all other inground pools (vinyl or gunite), we will service the equipment and anything above the water line. Meaning we will not typically work on lights or returns for those pools. For above ground pools, we only service the pools that choose to sign up for our season package. If you are not signed up for the season package, we can order certain parts (pumps, heaters and/or filters) but will not install them.

What are some extra features I can incorporate into my pool?

There are many water features we can incorporate into your pool. One of them being a Swim Current. A swim current consists of three returns that push water against you, creating an endless pressure to swim against. You can change the pressure at which the water is coming out of the returns depending on how fast you want to swim. We also offer Laminars. While we typically sell three at a time, you can customize the number to whatever fits your desires. Laminars are consistent streams of water that we place into your concrete. It creates a water stream that children especially love. Bubblers are placed in your deck to add a touch of elegance and fun to any swimming pool. They emit streams of water that gently bubble and ripple on the surface. Lastly, we offer Slides. We are able to place the piping before the concrete is poured, and install your slide once the concrete is placed. Please reach out for further discussion as there are additional options available.

How long does it take to install a pool?

Our pool jobs typically take three days to complete the install. Day one, we dig the hole for the pool, work on equipment and piping. Day two the pool is delivered and installed, we work on water features and the skimmer box. We also pack the pool sturdily with stone to assure stability. During day three, we place the cover box, rails and finish the rough grading to prep for the concrete. After that, your pool is fully functional and waiting for concrete.

How are fiberglass pools made?

Fiberglass pools are made on molds, which keeps the sizes consistent and allows for the variety of colors. The mold is made from fiberglass and is essentially a negative impression of the final pool shape. In simple terms, we place each layer of the pool on top of the mold one at a time. Starting with the gel coat you see on the inside and ending with the fiberglass which is on the outside. The gel coating is the first layer placed on the mold. In simple terms, it is the color of the pool. It is not a structural addition, only cosmetic. Gel coats provide the smooth and durable finish of the pool’s interior. After the gel coat cures, layers of fiberglass are applied onto the gel-coated surface of the mold. These layers usually consist of fiberglass cloth and resin. The resin used is a vinyl-ester resin. The layers of fiberglass and resin are left to cure and harden. This process involves temperature and humidity controls to ensure proper curing. Once the fiberglass has cured, the pool shell, which is what will be installed in the ground, is carefully removed from the mold. The mold can then be reused to create the next shell. The final step is for the distributors to trim off any excess fiberglass around the edges. This includes sanding and polishing to achieve a smooth surface. The pool is then inspected before they are shipped to us for sale.

What are the advantages of getting a Brinkmann fiberglass pool?

• Durability: Fiberglass pools are highly durable and resistant to deterioration from weather, ground movement, and chemicals. They are less prone to structural fracture and staining than concrete pools, and do not require a new liner every 10 years. Our Fiberglass pools also come with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
• Quick installations: We are not as dependent on the weather as other types of pools. Our molds are pre-made, so it is as simple as digging the hole and placing the shell. We don’t have to build the walls, floors, or surface.
• Smooth, low-maintenance finish: Fiberglass pools have a smooth, non-porous surface which helps to decrease the amount of algae growth and reduces the need for harsh chemicals, and is also pet friendly.
• Long-Term cost savings: Fiberglass pools can offer cost savings long term due to lower maintenance, reduced need for repairs and energy efficiency. Brinkmann equips your pool with the best energy efficient equipment to save on monthly costs over time.
• After care: After installing a pool in your yard, our commitment extends beyond the installation. Our service tech will have an orientation with you where he explains all the equipment and some basic chemistry to help get you started. We provide free water chemistry tests in store to ensure your pool is always balanced and safe.If you would like us to take care of your pool for you, we also offer a chemistry route. The girls on the route will test the water at your house, add in any necessary chemicals, and leave a door hanger so you know exactly what levels your pool was at and what was added. Additionally, we offer dedicated assistance with any equipment issues you may encounter, ensuring your pool remains a hassle-free source of enjoyment.

What are some limitations of fiberglass?

• Shape: Compared to other forms of pools, the biggest limitation is the shape of the pool we install. Fiberglass pools are limited to the models from the distributor as they are prefabricated in a factory. Fiberglass does offer a various range of shapes and sizes, but custom designs are not possible for fiberglass pools.
• Transportation: Our fiberglass pools are brought up from Tennessee. They come stacked like solo cups, 10 at a time. If you want a model different from the six we consistently stock, then it would have to be specially ordered.
• Repair Limitations: While fiberglass pools are durable, repairs to the surface can be more challenging and may require professional expertise. Damages to the fiberglass shell may require specialized repair techniques. Lucky enough, Brinkmanns service crew contains the knowledge to fix spider cracks if they were to occur. The two things that can happen to the shell is a cosmetic issue, or a structural crack. The cosmetic issue is the gel coat. There can be scratches or spider cracks. This will not affect the durability of the pool. Structural breaks, on the other hand, is a crack in the fiberglass itself. This is very rare. It can cause water to leak and must be fixed immediately. We, at Brinkmanns, have only seen this happen when the owner drains the pool or if a tree falls into the pool.

What maintenance do Brinkmann’s fiberglass pools require?

All pools require water chemistry and equipment maintenance.

• Chemistry: Fiberglass pools' smooth surfaces resist chemical absorption. This means less frequent chemical usage and a more stable chemical balance, leading to easier maintenance and a more enjoyable swimming experience with minimal effort spent on upkeep. Once you learn more about your pool, the water chemistry will become easier to handle. If you are interested in a water chemistry service, we offer weekly maintenance where our employees will test the water at your house, and add in the necessary chemicals. We also have an annual pool school where we teach anyone who is interested in how to balance their water, and handle their equipment.
• Equipment: A few times a summer you should take out and wash your cartridge filters. Weekly, we recommend you clean your pump basket and skimmer basket to keep your water flow at a good pressure. Throughout the summer, you might have to check the pool equipment such as pumps, heaters, and lights to ensure they are functioning properly. Our equipment has a three year warranty from the manufacturer, and the fiberglass pools shells have a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.

If you are in need of assistance with these services, call Brinkmanns today to get a quote or message us online here!

Do you clean pools?

If you are looking for a drain, wash, and refill, Brinkmanns provides that service! We lower the water a few feet before bracing the pool with two 4” by 4”. As we continue to drain the water, your pool will stay safe in the ground. We then wash your pool's surface with an acid based mixture before refilling it with water. Brinkmanns sell and service Maytronics Dolphins, which can automatically clean the bottom, walls, and water lines in your pool. Depending on which dolphin you are looking for, they clean the floors, walls, and water line. Some of them come with a caddy, and have an app to connect the machine to your phone. If you are interested in trying out a Maytronics Dolphin, we offer a two day rental. Any money put into the rental goes into a final purchase if you decide to buy that season.

Are fiberglass pools slippery?

A wide misconception is that fiberglass pools are slippery. Even though fiberglass pools are made with a gel coat finish which is smooth and non-porous, there is a textured finish in high traffic areas like the steps and deck. This allows for more friction while walking. We also install our pools with designer handrails and proper poolside decking to further enhance the safety and grip for swimmers. Please come take a walk through our molds and display pool if you are curious to see the traction of the pool's coating.

How do I choose the right fiberglass pool for my property?

Don’t worry! Brinkmanns will help you find the best pool for your yard. You can walk in our molds and test them out yourself. We will take into account the set back lines, septic tanks, and what you want your final backyard to look like. Our pool, no matter the model, will enhance your yard, and create your perfect oasis to relax and enjoy.

What is the chemistry route that you offer?

We offer a season package for inground and above ground pools. For both services, it includes the following; pool opening, weekly water chemistry, (testing and chemicals), and the pool closing. This package does not include any sort of service work on the pool. Pricing depends on the amount of times we visit the house, and your location. Please call the office for a specific price point.