Industry News
Can Your Pool Service Business Meet Pandemic-Driven Demand?

Published
1 year agoon
By
Pool News
The global pandemic negatively affected different economic sectors in all countries. With people staying home, there was a decreased demand for most products and services. In turn, business slowed down, people lost their jobs, and some companies shut down since they couldn’t afford to operate. But some industries experienced the exact opposite. In particular, the pool service industry experienced growth during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, homeowners were looking for ways to upgrade their outdoor living areas. This way, they could still make summer more enjoyable and worthwhile. Moreover, most pool owners wanted to remodel their pools. Owner of H&H Pool Services, David Hawes, says, “Surprisingly, there is excess demand of our products/services. And sometimes the workload becomes too much.” Most firms often think of raising their prices when the demand is high. Even so, not all pool companies qualify for this. So, be careful before you decide to increase your prices. Take time to analyze the demand for your products and your competitor’s prices. From there, you’ll be able to determine whether increasing your prices will expand your pool service business.
Labor shortage
Occasionally, high demand can lead to a shortage of labor. Thus, you will have to hire more people so that you can manage the workload. But employing more staff is expensive. You’ll have to pay health insurance, pension plans, payroll tax, social security, and other employee costs. However, you will receive compensation for these costs if your employees are hardworking in the long run.
So, is it worth hiring more employees in your pool service business?
Well, the answer to the above question depends on your requirements. Before hiring more employees in your pool service business, it is advisable to take some time and weigh the risks and the costs of your decision. Also, consider how much your employees will bring into your company.
Deciding to hire someone is a crucial decision for the company. However, it is all worth it if the team you hire is productive.
Owner of H&H Pool Services, David Hawes
Nonetheless, you have to find people who want to work with you. It would be best to hire professional and experienced individuals. They should be knowledgeable on pool construction, repairs, and maintenance. Consequently, your company will be able to meet a wide range of customer requirements.
Today, there are very few reliable people you can hire. Although there are many job seekers in the middle of this pandemic, you can only trust a few. Payan says that instead of hiring more people, he’s trying to reschedule some complex projects during the off-peak season. This will help them manage all their annual pool projects. At the end of the day, it’s all about being smart and trying to work with what you have. Also, it is important to give your employees time off to relax and recharge. Otherwise, they will experience major burnout.
Expanding your pool servive business to greater heights
Every business owner should evaluate their current stock and develop a plan to help them expand their business. Some of the questions company owners should ask themselves include:
- Do you have enough trucks?
- Do you need to expand your warehouse?
- Do you have enough personnel in every department?
- Do you need to incorporate technology to make your work easier?
All these questions will help you come up with a strategy that meets excess demand. However, note that each question presents an opportunity and a risk. For example, if you decide to increase your trucks, you’ll be able to handle more pool service projects. At the same time, you’ll have to pay insurance for the truck.
Profits, rewards, and the question of longevity
Pool contractors working independently sometimes earn even more than big pool companies. When working alone, there are fewer expenses. Besides, most of them deliver quality jobs. Due to the increased demand in the pool industry, pool professionals have the opportunity to increase their prices. Even so, most pool companies are ignoring the question, “What will happen once the pandemic is over? Will the demand be the same?” Well, no one can give a precise answer to these questions. But most companies have found out that their staff is equally productive when they are at home. So, people may work from home for a long time. Pool experts say that the demand for pool products and services won’t go back to normal.
Hawes says, “As long as people are working from home, they will always want to upgrade their outdoor living areas.” He also proceeds to say, “Homeowners have already showed their children how swimming can be fun. And there’s no way their children will disregard swimming pools after the pandemic.” On the flip side, Gallo says that the demand will go back to normal once the global pandemic is over. He says, “The demand for pool products and services will gradually slow down as the country recovers from the global pandemic. So, every pool service business should prepare themselves for this.”
Pool News coverage brought to you by Pool Magazine's own Marcus Packer. Marcus Packer is a 20 year pool industry veteran pool builder and pool service technician. In addition to being a swimming pool professional, Marcus has been a writer and long time contributor for Newsweek Magazine's home improvement section and more recently for Florida Travel + Life. Have a story idea or tip you'd like to share with Pool Magazine? Email mpacker@poolmagazine.com your story idea.

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Industry News
International Pool Spa Patio Expo Will Draw The Entire Industry

Published
11 months agoon
September 16, 2021
This year’s International Pool Spa Patio Expo in Dallas, TX is set to draw folks from all over the pool, spa, and outdoor living industries. It’s a time of the year that almost feels like old home week for the industry and a chance not only to network with old friends and colleagues, but to enhance ones education on a variety of different subjects.
Whether you are excited to learn about the latest products and technology, or are looking to learn from veteran industry experts; this year’s International Pool Spa Patio Expo guarantees to have something for everyone.
‘The Show Will Go On’ – Event Organizers
Even with Covid-19, event organizers are optimistic that this year’s expo will be a live event. Some attendees expressed some concern that this year’s show would be changed to a virtual event; a repeat of last year’s scramble to still hold an event under quarantine. The PHTA recently announced that the World Aquatic Health Conference has been switched to a virtual event in light of ongoing health & safety concerns.
Dallas Expo Will Be A Live Event
“Informa is open for business – Texas is open and the show will go on. We’re not going virtual.” said Ray Giovine, Group Director for Informa Markets during a recent a webinar hosted by Watershape University.
Informa has already held several events this year including the International Roofing Expo which was held at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas earlier this summer. The city of Las Vegas required that attendees wear protective masks, but Giovine said that he does not anticipate the mandate to be the same at this years International Pool Spa Patio Expo in Dallas. The current guidelines in Texas recommend wearing masks indoors but do not require them for attendees who are fully vaccinated.
An Emphasis on Safety
Enhanced cleanliness will be something event organizers focus on this year. Hand sanitizer will be made available throughout the venue as well as increased air circulation inside the exhibition hall.
Why Attend The International Pool Spa Patio Expo?
- Education including sessions offered by the pool industries most respected thought leaders and experts.
- Exhibits of the latest and most exciting new pool, spa, and outdoor living products to hit the market.
- Networking is one of the biggest reasons that attendees come to the Expo. It’s a great opportunity to engage with peers and colleagues as well as make new connections.

If it pertains to the pools, spas, or outdoor living, you’ll find it at this years expo. Below is a sample of products you’ll find:
- Barbecues / Patio Heaters / Fire Features
- Business Services / Software
- Commercial Equipment
- Chemicals
- Cleaning & Maintenance
- Construction Materials & Equipment
- Covers – Pool / Spa
- Decking & Fencing
- Fiberglass Pool
- Fitness & Disability Equipment
- FiltersFurniture & Décor
- Gazebos / Enclosures
- Green / Eco-friendly
- Technology
- Hot Tubs – Portable / Inground
- Ionizers / Ozone / Chemical Feeders / ORP
- Ladders / Slides / Diving Boards
- Landscaping / Garden Accessories
- Leak Detection
- Lighting
- Magazines / Media / Associations
- Package Pools / Vinyl Liners
- Pools – Above Ground / On Ground
- Pools – In Ground
- Pumps & Heaters
- Recreation / Game Room Products
- Safety Devices
- Saunas & Tanning Beds
- Tile
- Toys / Games / Floats
- Water Features / Fountains Ponds
Exhibition Dates
- Tuesday, Nov. 16, 10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, Nov. 17, 10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Thursday, Nov. 18, 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Key Note Speakers:
The PSP/Deck Expo will open with two key note speakers in the aquatics industry: Wallace J. Nichols, author of Blue Mind, and Rowdy Gaines, a former competitive swimmer, U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame member, three-time Olympic gold medalist, and member of the International Swimming Hall of Fame.


Welcome Party

Event attendees should definitely stop by the Welcome Party. Complimentary drinks and refreshments will be available. It’s a fun event and you’ll have the opportunity to network with friends and colleagues. Trolleys will be available to take folks back and forth from the Omni Hotel (the host hotel of the event).
Welcome Party
Tuesday, November 16
Gilley’s Dallas
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
PHTA WAVE Network Young Professionals Reception
Mingle and network with other young professionals in the pool, spa, and outdoor living industries.
Admission is free for PHTA and NADRA members and non-members, but registration is essential due to limited space. Admission includes networking in a relaxed environment, early access to the Welcome Party, and a selection of appetizers and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Transportation will be provided from the Omni Dallas, the host hotel. That event will be held Tuesday, November 16 from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. (immediately before the Welcome Party).
Grill & Chill Exhibition
This exhibition will feature vendors specific to deck building, outdoor kitchens, grills, and patio furniture. Vendors will be grilling and serving lunch each day of the event during normal expo hours:
- Tuesday, November 16: 10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, November 17: 10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Thursday, November 18: 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

BBQ Bash
Event attendees are invited to attend a barbecue hosted by Vendors on Wednesday, November 17, from 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge
Reid Schindler, one of the industry’s rising award-winning designers, and Mike Farley, an award-winning pool designer with over 30 years of experience, are joining together with the PSP/Deck Expo to identify the industry’s top designers in this year’s Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge.
A team of judges will select five finalists (one of whom will be a student) to attend this year’s event. On-site demonstrations of all finalists’ presentations, as well as Mike and Reid’s solutions, will take place during the Expo.
Deck Expo
The Deck Expo has relocated to a new location in conjunction with PSP Expo. Together, the two events expand the assortment of outdoor items and technologies. This year, PSP/Deck Expo will provide education focusing on decks not only during the pre-conference workshops, but also throughout the main conference.
GENESIS® Winemaker Dinner
Genesis will be hosting their 21st annual winemaker dinner and annual family reunion at the Tower Club on the 48th floor of the Santander Tower in the heart of the downtown Dallas business district. Tickets are $195 and registration is required. That event is being held November 17, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.

Pool Prize Party
With plenty of fun, excitement, and giveaways, the Pool Prize Party caps off the final day of the expo and is a great way to end your time at the event. That’s happening Thursday, November 18 at 2:00 pm – 2:30 pm on the show floor.
Tailgate Party
Watershape University will also be hosting a fun tailgate party and WU students, International Watershape Institute members, faculty, and corporate partners are invited to attend. That’s on November 15 at 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The International Pool Spa Patio Expo – A Great Opportunity To Expand Your Education
One of the biggest draws for attendees are the various courses and workshops that can be taken at the expo. The opportunity to learn from industry veterans and leading experts presents a unique chance to get an education from the masters. The programs presented at this years expo offer world class educational courses from some of the brightest minds in the pool & spa industry.

Pre-Show Education is available from Saturday, November 13, through Monday, November 15, and includes a variety of options. You can continue your study after completing a Pre-Show Education course! Each course in the Pre-Show Education series includes a Super Pass or an Expo Pass.
- PHTA Education
- GENESIS Education
- Watershape University Education
- NADRA Education
- Speciality Education & Certification
2021 Conference Sessions – International Pool Spa Patio Expo Day by Day
Here is a day by day breakout of what will be going on at the 2021 International Pool Spa Patio Expo in Dallas, TX.
November 13, 2021
Saturday, November 13 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | C201: GENESIS Construction School: Concrete Pools (Day 1 of 3) | GENESIS |
Saturday, November 13 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | E211: Fluid Hydraulics for Pools & Spas (Day 1 of 2) | GENESIS |
Saturday, November 13 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PHTA Certified Hot Tub Technician (CHTT) Course (Day 1 of 2) | PHTA |
Saturday, November 13 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PHTA Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS) Course (Day 1 of 3) | PHTA |
Saturday, November 13 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PHTA Certified Service Technician (CST) Course (Day 1 of 3) | PHTA |
Saturday, November 13 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Watershape CON 4111: Advanced Watershape Construction (Day 1 of 3) | Watershape University |
Saturday, November 13 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Watershape ENG 4311: Advanced Fluid Engineering (Day 1 of 2) | Watershape University |
November 14, 2021
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM | ICC | PHTA Presents the 2018 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code | PHTA |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | C201: GENESIS CONSTRUCTION SCHOOL: Concrete Pools (Day 2 of 3) | GENESIS |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | D180: Drawing for Professsionals (Day 1 of 2) | GENESIS |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | D231: Color Theory and It’s Application (Day 1 of 2) | GENESIS |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | D271: Architectural Styles (Day 1 of 2) | GENESIS |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | E211: Fluid Hydraulics for Pools & Spas (Day 2 of 2) | GENESIS |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PHTA Certified Hot Tub Technician (CHTT) Course (Day 2 of 2) | PHTA |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PHTA Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS) Course (Day 2 of 3) | PHTA |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PHTA Certified Service Technician (CST) Course (Day 2 of 3) | PHTA |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Pool & Spa Operator ® (CPO®) Certification Course (Day 1 of 2) | PHTA |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Watershape CON 4111: Advanced Watershape Construction (Day 2 of 3) | Watershape University |
Sunday, November 14 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Watershape ENG 4311: Advanced Fluid Engineering (Day 2 of 2) | Watershape University |
November 15, 2021
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | NADRA’s Deck Evaluation/Inspection Certification | Deck |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM | ICC | PHTA Presents the 2021 International Swimming Pool & Spa Code | PHTA |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | C201: GENESIS CONSTRUCTION SCHOOL: Concrete Pools (Day 3 of 3) | GENESIS |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | D180: Drawing for Professionals (Day 2 of 2) | GENESIS |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | D231: Color Theory and It’s Application (Day 2 of 2) | GENESIS |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | D271: Architectural Styles (Day 2 of 2) | GENESIS |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PHTA Certified Maintenance Specialist (CMS) Course (Day 3 of 3) | PHTA |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | PHTA Certified Service Technician (CST) Course (Day 3 of 3) | PHTA |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Pool & Spa Operator ® (CPO®) Certification Course (Day 2 of 2) | PHTA |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Watershape CON 4111: Advanced Watershape Construction (Day 3 of 3) | Watershape University |
Monday, November 15 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Watershape DGN2211: Essential Principles of Design Workshop | Watershape University |
Monday, November 15 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Master Deck Professional Certification – CODE | Deck |
Monday, November 15 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | PHTA 2021 International Awards of Excellence |
November 16, 2021
Tuesday, November 16 | 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM | B306: Elements of Litigation | Business |
Tuesday, November 16 | 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM | Best Practices for an Optimized Service Department | Service |
Tuesday, November 16 | 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM | C125: Fiberglass Construction | Builder |
Tuesday, November 16 | 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM | D109: Design Fees – Charging for Design | Business |
Tuesday, November 16 | 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM | Deck Design for Hot Tubs | Deck |
Tuesday, November 16 | 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM | E151: Do’s and Don’ts of Engineering | Builder |
Tuesday, November 16 | 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM | Saltwater Pool Troubleshooting: Beyond the Equipment | Service |
Tuesday, November 16 | 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM | Selling During & After A Pandemic: Coming Out Stronger | Business |
Tuesday, November 16 | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | ASA Curso de educación para el lanzador de concreto (shotcrete) Presentado por la American Shotcrete Association (ASA) | Additional Education |
Tuesday, November 16 | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | ASA Shotcrete Nozzleman Education Course (English) | Additional Education |
Tuesday, November 16 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | NPC’s Start-Up Technician Certification Course | Additional Education |
Tuesday, November 16 | 9:00 AM – 10:20 AM | It’s a Water-full Life | Special Events |
Tuesday, November 16 | 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM | Picture-Perfect Baluster Layout | Deck Workshops |
Tuesday, November 16 | 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM | Picture-Perfect Baluster Layout | Deck Workshops |
Tuesday, November 16 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | D235: The Impact of Color on Your Brand | GENESIS Solution Center |
Tuesday, November 16 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | PHTA Apprenticeship Program For the Service Industry. Powered for You! | School of Business |
Tuesday, November 16 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Jandy Variable Speed Pumps Installation, Programming and the New Dedicated Purpose Pool Pump Regulations with Hands-on Instruction | Fluidra Pro Academy |
Tuesday, November 16 | 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM | Exposing Dangerous Drains – Renovation of a Commercial Pool | Commercial |
Tuesday, November 16 | 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM | Leak-proof Deck Ledger Flashing | Deck Workshops |
Tuesday, November 16 | 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM | The 3 Critical Aspects of a Tried and True Ad Plan to Grow Your Retail Business | Spa Retail Academy |
Tuesday, November 16 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Advanced Oxidation Process | School of Business |
Tuesday, November 16 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | C352: Splash Pad Construction | Commercial |
Tuesday, November 16 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | D325: Mind Reading Your Clients | GENESIS Solution Center |
Tuesday, November 16 | 12:45 PM – 1:45 PM | TBD | PHTA |
Tuesday, November 16 | 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM | Deck Ledger Attachment: Codes and Installation Practices | Deck Workshops |
Tuesday, November 16 | 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Next Level Connection Tips and Trick for Web Based Automation for the Pool & Spa Industry | Fluidra Pro Academy |
Tuesday, November 16 | 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Challenging Deck Ledger Installations – and Solutions | Deck Workshops |
Tuesday, November 16 | 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | From Search to Sold – 100% Digitally | Spa Retail Academy |
Tuesday, November 16 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | BUSINESS 2231: Create a Culture of Accountability | School of Business |
Tuesday, November 16 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | D215: Intro to Pool Photography | GENESIS Solution Center |
Tuesday, November 16 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | E312: Understanding Water Current | Commercial |
Tuesday, November 16 | 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Introduction to ION Pool Care Software | Fluidra Pro Academy |
Tuesday, November 16 | 3:15 PM – 4:00 PM | Deck Lateral Load Reinforcement | Deck Workshops |
Tuesday, November 16 | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | C310: Interview with a Master | GENESIS Solution Center |
Tuesday, November 16 | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Enhancing Your Digital Footprint | School of Business |
Tuesday, November 16 | 4:00 PM – 4:45 PM | Sizing Wood Deck Joists and Critical Installation Details | Deck Workshops |
Tuesday, November 16 | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | PHTA WAVE Network Young Professionals Reception | Special Events |
Tuesday, November 16 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Welcome Party | Special Events |
November 17, 2021
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | 10 Steps to Be an Outstanding Pool and Outdoor Living Designer | Builder |
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Building Your Own Online Store | Retail |
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Compatibility of Hydraulic Components | Service |
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | How to Produce Videos for Websites, Social Media, Drip Marketing and Beyond! | Business |
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Larger Pools Equal A Larger Potential For Leaks | Service |
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Use AUTOMATION To SELL More and SATISFY More, Without More Manpower! | Business |
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | What Women Want From Your Business | |
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM | D345: The Art of Landscape / Architectural Lighting and How to Paint a Lighting Portrait | Builder |
Wednesday, November 17 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | 7 Crucial Marketing Secrets Every Pool Builder Should Know | Business |
Wednesday, November 17 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Basic Water Chemistry & Testing 101 | Service |
Wednesday, November 17 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | D131: Identifying New Business & Design Trends | Business |
Wednesday, November 17 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Hiring, Managing, and Leading People In Pool Service | Service |
Wednesday, November 17 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | How to Prepare for Existing Federal Pool Pump Regulations | Service |
Wednesday, November 17 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Outdoor Living – The Design Process | Builder |
Wednesday, November 17 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Wood and Water: Deck Considerations at Swimming Pools | Deck |
Wednesday, November 17 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | How Adding Fiberglass Pools to Your Offering adds Profits to your Projects | School of Business |
Wednesday, November 17 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | D415: Designer Dialogues: How I Deal with Client Changes : Power Panel | GENESIS Solution Center |
Wednesday, November 17 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Introduction to ProEdge Build Software | Fluidra Pro Academy |
Wednesday, November 17 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Deck Guardrail Post to Frame Connections | Deck Workshops |
Wednesday, November 17 | 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM | TBD | Spa Retail Academy |
Wednesday, November 17 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | How to Get More and Better Leads Online | School of Business |
Wednesday, November 17 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Stay Current in Pools: The Activities of the Recreational Water Quality Committee (RWQC) – A PHTA Resource | Commercial |
Wednesday, November 17 | 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM | Deck Ledger Attachment: Codes and Installation Practices | Deck Workshops |
Wednesday, November 17 | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | C310: Interview with a Master | GENESIS Solution Center |
Wednesday, November 17 | 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Introduction to Fluidra Pro App | Fluidra Pro Academy |
Wednesday, November 17 | 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Challenging Deck Ledger Installations – and Solutions | Deck Workshops |
Wednesday, November 17 | 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | TBD | Spa Retail Academy |
Wednesday, November 17 | 1:45 PM – 2:45 PM | Million Dollar Pool Challenge Session | PSP/Deck Expo Stage |
Wednesday, November 17 | 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | In-Floor Cleaning Systems | School of Business |
Wednesday, November 17 | 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Small Group Discussion | GENESIS Solution Center |
Wednesday, November 17 | 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Building Your Brand to become the Deck star in your Community | Deck , PSP/Deck Expo Stage |
Wednesday, November 17 | 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Jandy Variable Speed Pumps Installation, Programming and the New Dedicated Purpose Pool Pump Regulations with Hands-on Instruction | Fluidra Pro Academy |
Wednesday, November 17 | 3:15 PM – 4:00 PM | Leak-Proof Ledger Flashing | Deck Workshops |
Wednesday, November 17 | 3:15 PM – 4:00 PM | TBD | Spa Retail Academy |
Wednesday, November 17 | 3:15 PM – 4:00 PM | TBD | Spa Retail Academy |
Wednesday, November 17 | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | BUSINESS 2342: Managing High Lead Volume | School of Business |
Wednesday, November 17 | 3:45 PM – 4:45 PM | Small Group Discussion | GENESIS Solution Center |
Wednesday, November 17 | 4:00 PM – 4:45 PM | Sizing and Designing Wood Deck Beams | Deck Workshops |
Wednesday, November 17 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | BBQ Bash | Special Events |
Wednesday, November 17 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 21st Annual GENESIS Family Reunion and Winemaker Dinner | GENESIS |
November 18, 2021
Thursday, November 18 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | 5 Keys to a Lasting Positive Sales Attitude | Business |
Thursday, November 18 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | B331: Job Costing for Profit Versus Existence | Business |
Thursday, November 18 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | C225: Quality Shotcrete Placement for Pool Contractors | Builder |
Thursday, November 18 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | D111: Small Space Design | Builder |
Thursday, November 18 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Electricity, Bonding and Controls for Service Professionals | Service |
Thursday, November 18 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | How Google Has Changed Since Covid and What To Expect for 2021 Online | Business |
Thursday, November 18 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | How to Find, Recruit, Attract, Hire, Motivate and Retain Great Talent | Business |
Thursday, November 18 | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Successfully Integrating Pools & Water Features into the Landscape | Outdoor Living |
Thursday, November 18 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Finding Leaks – Turn Headaches into Profits | Service |
Thursday, November 18 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Hidden Design – The Importance of Designing Things You Can’t See | Builder |
Thursday, November 18 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Making Time Count (Time Management for People Who Don’t Think They Need Time Management) | Business |
Thursday, November 18 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Pro-Active Systems & Strategies To Achieve Construction Project & Field Production Results | Business |
Thursday, November 18 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Should I use Borates in Pools? | Service |
Thursday, November 18 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Swimming Pool Structural Failures: How to Avoid Them and How to Fix Them | Builder |
Thursday, November 18 | 9:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Take your Retail Game to the Next Level- Top 10 Retail Pitfalls to Avoid | Retail |
Thursday, November 18 | 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM | Deck Lateral Load Reinforcement | Deck Workshops |
Thursday, November 18 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | SERVICE 2311: Automating a Service Dept. | School of Business |
Thursday, November 18 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Small Group Discussion | GENESIS Solution Center |
Thursday, November 18 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Next Level Connection Tips and Trick for Web Based Automation for the Pool & Spa Industry | Fluidra Pro Academy |
Thursday, November 18 | 11:30 AM – 12:15 PM | Deck Guardrail Post to Frame Connections | Deck Workshops |
Thursday, November 18 | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | The “Ins and Outs” of Chlorine Delivery Systems | Commercial |
Thursday, November 18 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | How to Create & Execute a Growth Plan | School of Business |
Thursday, November 18 | 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Small Group Discussion | GENESIS Solution Center |
Thursday, November 18 | 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM | Sizing and Designing Wood Deck Beams | Deck Workshops |
Thursday, November 18 | 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Pool Prize Party | Special Events |
Thursday, November 18 | 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM | Sizing Wood Deck Joists and Critical Installation Details | Deck Workshops |
Show Floor Education:
- Hayward School of Business
- Fluidra Pro Academy
- Bullfrog Spas Spa Retailer Academy
- Think Wood Deck Workshop
- Genesis Solution Center
- Aquatics International PSP / Deck Expo Stage
That’s just a sneak preview of what you can expect at this year’s International Pool Spa Patio Expo in Dallas. Pool Magazine will also be attending and you can find us at Booth 1624 in the Genesis Pavillion, we can’t wait to see you there.
Industry News
Fiberglass Resin Shortage Affecting Manufacturers

Published
12 months agoon
September 2, 2021By
Pool News
The global covid-19 pandemic brought about many changes in the pool industry. Currently, there is shortage of many essential parts and supplies for swimming pools. More aspiring pool owners are getting disappointed by the day. Manufacturers have enormous backlogs of pending orders. But why has their been such dramatic and sudden slow-downs of inground pool construction during the height of the season? One of leading causes among fiberglass builders this season has been slow delivery of shells which has a direct correlation to ongoing resin shortages.

Understanding the fiberglass resin shortage at an in-depth level
As mentioned earlier, there has been a delay in pool construction due to a shortage of fiberglass resin material. As a result, the prices of liquid vinyl ester resin and fiberglass have significantly gone up. Subsequently, many fiberglass manufacturers are turning down shell orders amid the high demand for fiberglass pools nationwide and a lack of raw materials to facilitate orders.
Pool Magazine received word from numerous builders that they had been notified by Latham that shell deliveries would be delayed up to 8 weeks because of ongoing shortages. We reached out to America’s largest manufacturer of fiberglass inground pools to see how they are handling the ongoing resin shortage.
“Latham’s manufacturing facilities remain open and operational.” said Crist Leigh Wunsch, spokesperson for Latham, “Homeowner interest in our products is stronger than ever, and our teams are working hard to meet the increased demand. We are facing intermittent raw material shortages, along with the rest of our industry, which has resulted in some temporary manufacturing inefficiencies at our facilities.”
“We have been leveraging our strong relationships with our suppliers to navigate this issue,” continued Wunsch, “and we have looking at alternative resin sources to continue to diversify our supply chain. Despite this, Latham continues to deliver solid growth. The strong underlying secular trends of our industry remain intact, and we feel well positioned to continue to meet growing consumer demand for pools.”
Manufacturers Everywhere Are Feeling The Pinch
Kent Wooldridge, president of the United Marine Manufacturers Association, says, “Indisputably, it is extremely painful to turn down orders from loyal clients. Telling pool owners that they have to halt their businesses just because you cannot supply them with the required raw materials is hard. Even worse, you cannot refer them to another person who can offer them the appropriate raw materials. In addition, those who have these materials sell them at crazy prices.”
“The majority of suppliers are overburdened by the fiberglass shortage. The winter storms that damaged the chemical plants producing resin were therefore a big disaster.”
president of board manufacturer Aipa Surf Co, DUKE AIPA
Have raised import tariffs made the shortage situation worse?
Usually, the United States is responsible for producing only a tiny fraction of fiberglass cloth. The country mainly relies on affordable fiberglass supplies from China. However, since Trump’s administration, there have been obstacles preventing the smooth import process. In particular, since 2018, a 25% import tariff was placed on fiberglass cloth and resin. This discouraged most manufacturers from importing fiberglass. On the flip side, Chinese manufacturers raised their export prices.
In 2020, the coronavirus outbreak made the supply chain worse due to travel restrictions. The lockdown also forced Chinese chemical plants to shut down. At the same time, there was increased demand for pool construction services since most homeowners were looking for ways to upgrade their backyards.
The effect of natural calamities on fiberglass resin shortage
This year, the winter storm in Texas disoriented a broad spectrum of activities in the pool industry. The freezing weather conditions forced the chemical manufacturing plants in Houston to shut down. Moreover, the storm forced Hexion Inc and Olin Corp., the biggest epoxy producers, to stop operating.
Manufacturers report that once they finally get a truckload of resin, it doesn’t stick around very long. It’s already earmarked for a back-order. In fact, in most instances, all the resin coming in has already been pre-sold. This has been the situation for the past few months.
Are manufacturers affected?
Kirk Sullivan, a Florida pool builder, had to refund 250 orders due to the fiberglass resin shortage. Sullivan says that he received very few supplies this year during the summer. Therefore, his company has been unable to continue taking new pool construction orders. Fortunately, all his staff members are still at work, hoping for things to get better.
Regional manager, Todd Prestage, says, “Before, it used to take approximately six weeks to get a Surf Hardware International Board. Now, it takes six months.”
Several fiberglass manufacturers have tried solving this issue by importing a more significant percentage of raw materials from Asian countries that don’t incorporate high import tariffs. But they still find themselves raising their prices due to all the labor and shipping costs involved. Consumers, on the flip side, have no other choice but to pay more.
The bottom line
Other than taking longer to reach consumers, prices for resin have skyrocketed. Consequently, very few pool companies are finding it easy to adjust. One Latham Grand Dealer we spoke to said, “The resin shortage is making it more difficult for smaller companies like ours to get shells and obviously it’s been costing us all sales. The big guys are fortunate since they have guaranteed delivery based on their order flow”
One thing is for absolute certain, as the summer begins to wind down, this industry certainly has it’s work cut out toward improving the supply chain issues that have hindered so many this pool season.

Over the years, automatic pool coves have increasingly become popular among most homeowners. These safety features protect pools from dirt and help pool owners save energy. At present, there is an increased demand for automatic covers, especially among spa owners. Indisputably, spa owners are also looking to protect their investments. Automatic spa covers are therefore becoming popular in the pool industry. The best thing about these features is that they are user-friendly; you can operate them with the simple touch of a button. Ultimately, homeowners don’t mind spending on these features.

The increased demand for automatic spa covers
Several states make it compulsory for all pool owners to have safety covers. Consequently, almost every pool owner is familiar with automatic pool covers. Once spa owners see how this feature works well, they’ll always want to purchase one for their spa. Allan Horwood of Pool Patrol in British Columbia concurs, and he states, “Before, using safety covers in spas was quite odd. However, it is now common to protect your spa using a cover.”
“There has been a steady rise in demand for automatic pool and spa covers in the United States.”
VP of sales for Automatic Pool Covers, Mike Shadoan
Nonetheless, Shadoan says that automatic pool and spa covers are costly. But people are always willing to buy products that offer value for money. There’s, therefore, a golden opportunity for pool professionals who wish to sell these safety features.
Is selling automatic spa covers a good idea?
A good percentage of pool owners love automatic spa covers because they are simple to use. I mean, no one wants to struggle to remove the automatic pool/spa cover after a grueling day. With auto covers, you can open and close the pool using a remote.
A unique opportunity for pool contractors
Last year, the industry experienced a surge in demand for pool services. Homeowners were looking for ways to upgrade their backyards. Consequently, they installed swimming pools, among other outdoor features. Automatic pool and spa covers were therefore in high demand. Pool contractors who sell these safety features are often privileged. When they go onsite to provide installation services, they will most likely sell other pool products and water features. For example, high-end customers may request an additional water feature like a spa. And this helps pool contractors to increase their revenue. Ultimately, there are so many golden opportunities that come with selling automatic pool covers.
Installing automatic spa covers
Is there a difference between automatic pool covers and automatic spa covers? Well, yes. The major difference between these features is space and aesthetics. Automatic spa covers are more versatile since they are smaller. Thus, they tend to provide more aesthetics. Pool contractors can install auto covers on spas that are above the deck or flush with the deck.
Suppose the spa is above the ground; you’ll have to raise it by approximately 20 inches above the deck. It would help if you also placed the cover box above the deck. Nevertheless, note that the installation process is different for existing spas. In such instances, there’s usually limited space to work with. Consequently, there might be insufficient space to install the housing for the cover mechanism.
Dealing with such projects requires you to be innovative. You may decide to flush mount the safety cover on the paver. Doing this helps you create a nice, clean look. You can also add a storage space along the edge of the spa; here, you can store your cleaning equipment, among other products. Subsequently, you end up making the most out of your space.
Balancing between functionality and aesthetics
You have to find the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality when installing an automatic spa cover. Most clients prefer using concrete lids on their pool covers so that they can walk around the cover. Also, concrete lids are more popular because they provide more aesthetics. Meeting the customer’s requirements will require you to use a heavy-duty bracket. This way, it can handle the weight of the concrete lid. Even so, always tell your clients to minimize their movement on the cover. At times, the stone can move, and this can lead to serious accidents.
Shadoan says, “Pool contractors should explain how these features work. They should inform their clients that lifting the stone from time to time is important. Also, let them know that walking, standing, or sitting on the lid can lead to serious accidents.”
Are automatic spa covers worth the purchase?
Currently, there is a broad spectrum of automatic spa cover designs. Therefore, every spa owner can find something that caters to their needs. Needless to say, automatic spa covers are not for everyone. They are ideal for pool owners who want to match their pool cover and spa cover more often than not. Ultimately, automatic spa covers offer excellent functionality and aesthetics.

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