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Factors to Consider Before Building a Luxury Inground Pool

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Are you thinking of building a luxury inground pool? Congratulations, you are on the right track. Luxury inground pools are unquestionably great add-ons to your property. These spectacular features not only provide many hours of pool play but also boost your property’s aesthetic. Even so, luxury inground pools are expensive. So, you have to choose a reputable pool contractor to build this pool for you. Also, there are several factors you have to consider before purchasing a luxury inground pool. Failure to do so puts you at risk of losing thousands of dollars in your pool project.

Factors to Consider Before Building a Luxury Inground Pool

What should I consider before building a luxury inground pool?

Identify the pool construction guidelines in your state:

Every state in America has specific pool construction guidelines. These guidelines are often meant to enhance safety. So, before building a luxury inground pool, check with your state authorities. Some states prohibit the construction of certain types of luxury inground pool designs. Understanding these laws puts you in a better position of knowing whether to proceed with construction. Your state can impose heavy penalties on you if you fail to observe these pool construction guidelines.

Know the various pool types available:

Choosing the exact type of pool you wish to construct can be challenging. First, take the time to understand all the pool types available. Then, analyze your requirements and see what works best for you. At present, there are three main types of pools; concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl. Analyze the pros and cons associated with each and make your decision based on your needs. A reliable pool contractor will always recommend the best pool type for you.

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Consider the pool’s durability:

Every homeowner wants a swimming pool that will serve them for decades. So, before constructing your pool, choose a pool that offers high durability. More often than not, concrete pools offer the most durability, and vinyl pools offer the least durability. Moreover, it is important to choose a pool that incorporates fewer maintenance procedures. This way, you won’t have to worry about spending massive repair and replacement costs in the long run. A good pool builder will advise you on the most durable pool type that caters to your needs.

Select a quality circulation system:

Keep in mind that the pool’s circulation system determines its efficiency. Nowadays, there are different types of circulation systems, from chlorine to UV systems. Each of them offers unique advantages and disadvantages. Always choose the one that matches your requirements and helps you save on energy. Chlorine pool systems are the most common; however, they may not be efficient for outdoor pools. UV systems, on the flip side, offer maximum sanitation but are extremely expensive.

Maintenance costs:

If you plan to build a pool, you have to consider the lifetime costs of the pool. Pool maintenance costs can take a toll on your budget. Select a pool type that incorporates the least maintenance costs. Often, fiberglass pools will have the least maintenance costs. Although vinyl pools incorporate low initial costs, you’ll have to spend more than $4,000 after every four to seven years due to liner replacement. Additionally, choose a pool that does not consume a lot of time and effort during maintenance, especially if you have a busy schedule.

Weigh water features and lighting:

You have to consider the water features you wish to add to the pool. Typically, your budget often determines the type of pool features to install. If you have an unlimited budget, consider installing more than three water features. Needless to say, your water features should complement the pool’s aesthetics. When constructing a luxury inground pool, you may have to spend more on water features.

Determine your budget:

One of the most important factors to consider when building your luxury inground pool is your budget. Generally, luxury inground pools are expensive. So, get prepared to spend thousands of dollars on these pools. Luckily, there is a wide range of financing options available today. All you have to do is find a dependable and affordable pool lender near your area. But it is crucial to building a luxury inground pool you can afford. Avoid going bankrupt because of pool construction.

Compare prices:

The most important thing to do before you start building your dream pool is to find a reliable pool construction company. Conduct thorough research on the best pool construction companies that cater to your needs. Then, compare their quotes. Doing this helps you find the most affordable pool builder that caters to your requirements. Remember, your pool builder can either make or break your project.

Conclusion

Building a luxury inground pool is not a walk in the park. Thus, you have to consider certain aspects before constructing a luxury inground pool. Some of the factors you should consider include the pool type, budget, and state pool construction guidelines.

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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 [email protected] your story idea.

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Pool Maintenance

NJ Municipal Workers Accused of Stealing Pool Chemicals For Their Own Business

Four New Jersey municipal workers are accused of stealing pool chemicals and overbilling for certifications.

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NJ Municipal Workers Accused of Stealing Pool Chemicals For Their Own Business

In a case that’s sending shockwaves through both municipal government and the pool service world, four employees from the Secaucus Recreation Department are facing serious charges for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars in pool chemicals from a public facility to support their private pool maintenance operation.

Four Accused of Stealing Pool Chemicals For Their Own Pool Service Business

According to Secaucus police, the group—comprised of John T. Schwartz, 61; Joseph Ferrara, 27; Frank N. Flanagan, 32; and Megan R. Wofsy-Flanagan, 31—used their town positions to boost their side business, Crystal Clear Pool and Spa Management, at the expense of local taxpayers.

Authorities allege that the four were routinely stealing pool chemicals from the Secaucus Swim Center during and after their scheduled shifts. The materials, intended to maintain public pools, were instead redirected to private customer accounts across Hudson, Bergen, Morris, and Somerset counties. In many cases, Crystal Clear billed its clients for the stolen chemicals, turning a profit while drawing down town inventory. Investigators also revealed that town-owned vehicles were sometimes used to make service calls, further blurring the line between public duty and private enterprise.

But the alleged scheme didn’t stop at chemical theft.

Four municipal workers are accused of stealing thousands of dollars in pool chemicals and double-billing for lifeguard certification fees.
Four municipal workers are accused of stealing thousands of dollars in pool chemicals and double-billing for lifeguard certification fees.

Accusations of Double Billing For Certification Fees

Crystal Clear also operated lifeguard certification courses—a business that overlapped with the employees’ municipal duties. As part of their town roles, some of the suspects were responsible for certifying lifeguards at the Secaucus Swim Center. Investigators allege that Crystal Clear charged trainees a fee for the classes while simultaneously billing the town for the same certifications. Instructors, who were already on the town payroll, were sometimes double-dipping—getting paid by the town while Crystal collected course fees from the participants.

Adding to the concerns, the certification classes were often held inside the Secaucus Recreation Center, but Crystal Clear reportedly never paid for use of the facility. Police say most of the lifeguard classes were led by Megan Wofsy-Flanagan, who also happened to serve as the town’s head lifeguard.

Each of the four suspects held key roles in the department: Schwartz was the manager of recreation facilities; Flanagan oversaw special events and pool maintenance; Ferrara worked as the assistant manager of the town pool; and Wofsy-Flanagan led lifeguard operations. Their intertwined municipal and business responsibilities gave them access—and, allegedly, a cover—for what investigators describe as a wide-ranging scheme to misuse town resources.

Investigators Were Tipped Off

The investigation began back in March when a concerned resident tipped off police about irregularities in supply usage at the town pool. A series of search warrants—served Tuesday at the Secaucus Recreation Center and the Flanagans’ home—led to the arrests of all four individuals.

Each has been charged with theft, conspiracy to commit theft, and theft of services.

In a public statement, Town Administrator Gary Jeffas said, “The Town of Secaucus is very disheartened by the alleged actions of the employees who have been charged. That being said, we have taken swift action and can ensure the public that any violation of their trust by a town employee, or anyone else, will not be tolerated.”

As of press time, attorneys for Schwartz and the Flanagans were not listed in court records. All four individuals are expected to face legal proceedings in the coming weeks.

The case has drawn attention not just for the dollar amount involved, but for how easily the lines between public service and private enterprise can become blurred when oversight falls short. With municipal and private pool operations often relying on the same skilled personnel, the story raises real questions about internal controls, access to materials, and the responsibilities that come with dual roles

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Manufacturer

Aqua Leisure Recreation Rebrands as Helio Outdoors

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  • Leading South Boston-based manufacturer and marketer of pool floats, marine towable rafts, snowshoes, and swimming pool parts evolves to meet growing consumer interest in outdoor recreation. 
  • 55-year history of manufacturing excellence paired with new brand-centric leadership team provides platform for new product innovation, wider product assortment. 
  • Legacy of retail channel strength, prolific new product development and global sourcing sophistication provides platform for growth.

STOUGHTON, Mass., June 18, 2025 — The company formerly known as Aqua Leisure Recreation announces it has rebranded as Helio Outdoors (HelioOutdoors.com). Founded in 1970 in Stoughton, Mass., Helio Outdoors is a collection of category leading brands in the outdoor recreation space, including Aqua®, Airhead®, Inyo Pools™, Purleine™ and Yukon Charlies®. The rebrand provides clarity of purpose as a house of brands serving a growing outdoor recreation category estimated at $109 billion in the U.S. in 2024.1

With a product portfolio spanning pool floats, water toys, swim gear, marine towables, snow shoes and pool parts, Helio Outdoors products are sold at mass merchandise retailers such as Walmart® and Target®, as well as sporting good retailers like Dick’s®, Academy Sports & Outdoors®, and others. Additionally, Helio brands products can be purchased directly online at Amazon® as well as its own direct-to-consumer websites.

“This is an incredible opportunity for us to reorganize in a manner that provides clarity to our retail partners and to the consumers choosing our products,” said Carmen Evola, chief executive officer at Helio Outdoors. “The Aqua Leisure moniker served us well for more than half a century, but as we introduce more rigor to product innovation and brand building, we found it prudent to define more clearly who we are as a house of brands. Helio Outdoors is the perfect identity for a platform of companies with a shared purpose to empower people to and get outside to enjoy Outdoor for Life™.”

The U.S. outdoor recreation products sector is estimated to grow at a 6.95% CAGR, adding more than $70 billion in sales between 2024 – 2031.2

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1 U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, 2024
2 U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis

About Helio Outdoors (FKA: Aqua Leisure Recreation, LLC): 
Founded in 1970, Helio Outdoors is a leading marketer and manufacturer of consumer goods products serving the outdoor recreation category under owned brands Aqua®, Airhead®, Inyo Pools™, Pureline™ and Yukon Charlies®. Privately held and headquartered in Stoughton, Mass., with regional offices in Denver and Orlando, Helio Outdoors stands on pillars of quality, accessibility, and adventure, to provide quality products for athletes, water lovers, adventure seekers, children learning to swim, and everyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. For more information, visit HelioOutdoors.com.

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Manufacturers

Latham Pools: Driving Innovation as They Approach a Platinum Milestone

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As Latham Pools prepares to celebrate its 70th anniversary next year, the company shows no signs of slowing down. On the contrary, CEO Scott Rajeski says the company is leaning harder than ever into what made them a leader in the first place — innovation, execution, and an unwavering focus on the customer experience.

Reflecting after connecting at this year’s Pool & Spa Show in Atlantic City, Rajeski observed a noticeable resurgence of energy in the pool sector. “The excitement, the enthusiasm at the show — it was probably one of the better shows in many years,” he shared. “Traffic was great, attendance was up, and, you know, a lot of buzz back in the industry, which is great for all of us.”

Meeting the Moment: The Rise of Plunge Pools

One of Latham’s most talked-about recent developments is their expanded plunge pool collection — a timely response to changing consumer demands as lot sizes continue to shrink across North America.

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“The response has been phenomenal,” Rajeski said. “People are using their pool in the backyard as an entertainment feature these days. You know, the Milan has really resonated, and we’ve just launched the vinyl liner package pool Calypso series in four configurations. Starting with a very simple pool, but then one that becomes more and more feature-rich over time, with benches and ledges that are in there.”

Latham Plunge Pools - Calypso Series
Latham Plunge Pools – Calypso Series

Latham’s plunge pools are designed not just for smaller spaces, but for faster, easier installation — a major advantage in today’s tight labor market. Their new Calypso series was recognized at the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo for its innovation in installation time, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance.

“It’s a very simple design. It’s a really easy install for a pool builder,” Rajeski explained. “More importantly, it’s a much faster install, so the consumer’s able to get into their backyard and get into their pool and enjoy it much quicker.”

Turning Challenges Into Opportunities

Amid recent reports of widespread issues with concrete pool deterioration — sometimes called “concrete cancer” (ASR) — Latham sees an opportunity to educate consumers about alternatives like fiberglass.

“It’s unfortunate for all the homeowners who bought one of those pools and are experiencing going through these issues and concerns,” Rajeski said. But the shift in consumer awareness aligns perfectly with Latham’s long-standing messaging.

“We’ve been trying to market the benefits of fiberglass against concrete pools. I do think this gives us another opening in terms of educating consumers, builders about fiberglass — the opportunity, whether it’s the faster install, the low-cost maintenance… you’re getting a shell built in one of our factories, delivering it right to the backyard, setting that vessel in the ground, and the homeowner never has to worry about anything again.”

Timing has worked in Latham’s favor. Their “Sand State Strategy” — a focused and concerted effort to expand its market penetration launched just as headlines about concrete pool issues became more prominent.

“We’re advertising and marketing all of the benefits of fiberglass pools — the ownership, the faster install, the customization, the cost benefits versus a concrete pool. We’ll continue to drive the awareness of fiberglass ownership.”

Leading the Digital Revolution in Pool Buying

Latham’s innovation isn’t limited to product design — it extends into technology platforms designed to transform the pool-buying experience.

Tools like the Latham Pool Visualizer, which allows consumers to see how a pool would look in their backyard via augmented reality, were born out of real-world frustrations.

“You’re out there spray painting your backyard, moving templates around, trying to get a feel of what it’s going to look like,” Rajeski recalled. “I remember I said, you know, imagine if you could come up with a tool — just like in Christmas Vacation with Clark Griswold when he imagines the pool in his backyard and he can visually see what it’s going to look like.”

Visualizers not only enhances the consumer experience but also accelerate the sales cycle, said Rajeski. “It was all about enabling the pool buying decision for the homeowner, but also generating a lead direct to the dealer to hook the consumer and build their opportunity to close the sale.”

Latham’s tech ecosystem also includes Measure by Latham Pools — an AI-powered device that uses LIDAR and HD cameras to create precise measurements for safety covers and vinyl liners in minutes.

“It all started with a conversation about the disruption caused by measuring a liner in the backyard… very time-consuming, completely manual, and lots of opportunities for mistakes,” Rajeski explained.

Instead of requiring a two- or three-week process with multiple site visits, Measure by Latham Pools can map a pool with one technician in under 30 minutes. “It designs and quotes the liner or cover immediately and sends that quote right back where you can hit the button, create the purchase order, and send all of that design and cut sheets right back to our manufacturing facilities to produce that liner.”

It’s a major efficiency boost for both dealers and homeowners. “Now they’re measuring four or five times more liners in a particular day… It’s a huge profitability play for the builder.”

Importantly, the system’s built-in AI continuously improves with use. “The more measurements we collect, the smarter the device gets — cutting that design time down, hopefully eventually to 10 or 15 minutes.”

Strengthening the Connection Between Consumers and Builders

In tandem with its visualizer and measuring technology, Latham developed the My Latham platform — an all-in-one system that keeps consumers organized and engaged throughout the pool planning process.

“What we’re trying to be is the salesperson out there connecting the person who’s interested in a pool to the pool builder who can install it for that homeowner,” Rajeski said. “We nurture them through that entire buying process… then make that connection of a hot sales lead to one of our best builders in that area or zip code.”

Everything — from educating homeowners about fiberglass vs. concrete, to offering AR visualization, financing options, and finding a local builder — is streamlined through My Latham, making it easier than ever to turn dreams into backyard realities.

The Road Ahead: Innovation at Full Speed

As Latham looks ahead to its Platinum Anniversary in 2026, innovation remains at the heart of its vision for the future.

“We’ve talked a lot about launching many new, innovative models and pools that will resonate in specific geographies,” Rajeski revealed. “Smaller pools with built-in spas and ledges — just beautiful designs that will fit in those smaller backyards.”

Beyond new designs, Latham is also focused on upgrading manufacturing capabilities to produce models faster. “Cycle time, speed to market, the ability to produce more models for builders faster — that’s where we’re headed.”

Rajeski credits the company’s success to its people: “It’s having extremely bright and talented individuals in the organization — from marketing, to engineering, to the hourly folks making the pools in the factory, to the truck driver delivering that pool right to the backyard.”

At the end of the day, he said, it’s about helping families create lifelong memories. “Everyone dreams of having that swimming pool, celebrating life’s memories and moments… it’s not every day you get to wake up, come to work, do something that makes people’s dreams come true.”

As Latham nears its 70th year, that mission remains stronger — and more innovative — than ever.

Ready to take a deeper dive?

Listen to our entire conversation with Latham CEO Scott Rajeski on the Pool Magazine Podcast.

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