REPOST: Above Ground Pool Add-Ons

Above ground swimming pools can be customized to fit artistic and comfort needs. Below are several pool features and accessories that add a personal touch to above ground swimming pools:

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There are so many things that you can add to your above ground swimming pool to customize it for your lifestyle. These features can make your above ground swimming pool the perfect place for relaxing, throwing the ultimate pool party, and a great place to exercise. 

Here are some suggestions to customize and build your perfect backyard paradise:

Decking

 

An important addition to your above ground pool should be decking that allows for easy access in and out of the water. You want to choose decking large enough to allow people to sit poolside that provides enough space for other elements of outdoor living. Standard resin pool decking is typically offered from the companies that sell above ground pools. These decks coordinate with the rest of your above ground pool and may include a covering or room for a chair or two. You can also opt for a wood deck built around your pool to your exact size and specifications. These decks can be customized to add outdoor living space for a table and chairs and even a grill. If wood sounds like too much maintenance, there are also options in composite decking that give you an even greater choice of colors and styles.

Entry System

 

There are a few options available for entry into your above ground swimming pool. The choice that you make will depend on your particular needs and design preferences. You can choose from simple A-frame ladders to grand entrance drop in steps.

Fencing

 

Above ground pool fences, generally constructed of resin, will not only enhance the look of your swimming pool, but also will improve safety. They are easy to install and can it can be done by a homeowner or a swimming pool professional. In addition to making your pool area a safe environment for children, elderly, pets and wildlife, accessories can be added to the pool fence such as solar pool lighting.

Pool Techonology and Safety

 

Winter Covers

 

Winter covers for above ground pools are designed to keep water in and debris out, therefore cleaning your pool before spring opening is a breeze. In addition, different pool covers offer other benefits. For example, safety above ground winter pool covers prevent small animals and children from falling into the pool and drowning. If you live in a climate that gets a lot of precipitation, mesh above ground pool winter covers are also a great investment because they have small holes that allow water to pass through so it doesn’t build up on the cover. Remember – winter covers are not a safety cover unless that is how it was designed. For example, leaf catchers are inexpensive and effective for collecting debris but they do not have the safety features of safety above ground winter pool covers.

Heater

 

If you add a heater to your above ground pool, you can get more use out of your above ground pool by delaying that inevitable closing and opening the pool earlier in the spring. In colder climates, a heater can extend the pool season by a few months and in warmer parts of the US, using a heater can make it possible to keep your pool open at a comfortable temperature all year round.

Pool Alarms

 

A pool alarm is one of the most effective ways to prevent backyard drowning of unsupervised children or pets. Different models are available for above ground swimming pools including both surface and subsurface wave detection.

Above Ground Pool Cleaners

 

You will want to spend your free time enjoying your swimming pool area – not maintaining it. With automatic pool cleaners for above ground pools, pool cleaning can be taken care of quickly and conveniently. All you have to do is turn on your cleaning unit, place it in the pool and it will do the rest. Above ground automatic pool cleaners typically work off your pool's existing pump and filter so there's no need for extra, expensive booster pumps. Many automatic cleaning units are designed to clean above ground pools with uneven, dished or flat bottoms. Also, with their advanced steering capabilities and powerful suction, automatic above ground pool cleaners quickly and effectively vacuum up dirt, leaves, grass, bugs and other debris, leaving your pool spotlessly clean and looking great.

Automatic Timers

 

Using pool timers is a great way to enjoy convenience and savings. By automatically controlling when your pool equipment is running and when it is not, swimming pool timers eliminate the need for pool owners to remember when to turn their equipment on and off. Also, pool timers make it easy to leave equipment such as filters and pumps running only for as many hours as necessary so you can enjoy reduced energy consumption as well as less work. And, not surprisingly, by consuming less energy you will also reap the benefit of lower energy bills.

Filtration Systems

 

Three types of filtration systems are available for above ground pools. There is a broad selection of filter system sizes, which allow you to choose the above ground pool filter system that best suits your above ground pool. The most commonly used pool filters are sand, but the most effective on removing even the finest particles is D.E., which will truly delivers clearer above ground pool water.

Features

 

Fountains and Waterfalls

 

Add an exciting and fun fountain to your above ground swimming pool. Pool fountains are easy to install and provide beautiful focal point for your swimming pool. Swimmers will also love to play in the fountain's spray. Not only do they create an amazing visual effect, but they also add to relaxation with the sound of falling water.

Lighting

 

Did you know that pool lighting was not just for inground swimming pools? There is an assortment of above ground pool lights and floating pool lights available for above ground swimming pools. With the availability of both underwater and floating pool lights, you will find the right one to create the ambience you desire for your evening swimming. Easy to install and inexpensive to operate, above ground pool lights shine enough light with a single 50 watt bulb to illuminate the entire pool. Floating solar pool lights charge from sunshine and can stay lit for up to 8 hours after being charged.

Blue World Pools is the leading dealer of above ground swimming pools in the United States. Know more about its products and services here.

REPOST: Expert Tips for Throwing a Pool Party

Bored of floating around your swimming pool to cool off? Why don’t you throw a party with your family and friends instead? Here are expert tips to get you started:

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With summer drawing to a close you might want to consider getting that last dose of hosting in, which conveniently doubles as a practice round before pool party season sneaks up on you in St Barts and Cabo. We caught up with party planner Amy Abbott to get some expert advice on how to make your next poolside gathering go with a splash, not a whimper. You’ll be surprised to find that the super chic Ralph Lauren ad campaign you envisioned can actually happen in real life–and you barely have to break a sweat (or hire models) to be the host with the most.

On paper, the pool party is a concept that promises an effortlessly chic event. Especially if you have a poster-worthy pool. When you picture it, an image of guests clad in classic swimwear, cocktails in hand appears. The sky is hazy, the music is light but essential, the food is present but not center stage. There might even be someone in the pool. But a few small details must be considered in order to promise the decent weather forecast and droves of party-goers get the warm welcome they deserve.
Clear Expectations

The plan for the day should be as clear to your guests as your pool water (side note: vacuum the pool before the party). Your guests will appreciate this, it’s hard to get excited for an event when you’re overwhelmed with uncertainty;”Should I bring a change of clothes? Do I need to eat before coming? Are the kids invited?” Do yourself, and everyone else, a favor by answering these questions before the party begins. For example, if you plan to carry the event into the evening, recommend a change of clothes–nothing kills a vibe more than a wet bathing suit under a sundress. If it’s an all-ages event a simple “Water wings will be provided for the little swimmers!” will get the message across. If there’s a set time guests are to arrive, state it clearly.
Amy’s Pro Tip: A formal invitation isn’t necessary for a casual pool party. An e-mail outlying all of the basics will do.
Safety First

We know. Safety is always the boring part. But it’s the most important factor to ensure your party goes off without a hitch. It’s the small things that make a big difference: have a basket of sunscreen available; if there are children coming, have water wings on hand; extra sun hats are good too. Even if your favorite hosting outfit includes heels, veer away: a slippery poolside deck doesn’t mesh well with platforms. On that note, pick up a few pairs of flip flops for guests and encourage them to get comfortable too. And never forget the cardinal rule of poolside eating and drinking: no glassware!
Amy’s Pro Tip: Keep a designated shade area–not everyone wants to get a tan. Have spray bottles with water around too as a fun way to cool down.
Style your Event

One of the benefits of a pool party is that most of the decorating is already done for you: your garden and man-made waterfall speak for themselves. For a casual outdoor event, it’s always best to keep decorations simple; grab a handful of colorful flowers from the garden and bundle them in a vase. Music, of course, is essential. Many homes are ahead of the game with outdoor Bose sound systems, but if your space isn’t equipped with one, Jawbone‘s Jambox is a colourful, powerful and waterproof alternative that will do the trick.
Amy’s Pro Tip: If you’re planning to provide towels, have them specially monogrammed for your guests to double as great party favors.
Refreshment Round-Up

Remember that pool parties are not dinner parties. Guests aren’t expecting a 7-course meal. Keep it as simple as possible: less mess, less stress. Prepare as many items as you can beforehand, finger foods are ideal because there won’t be any dirty dishes to tend to. Have food dispersed throughout the party area, so no matter where people are congregating, there’s a little something to snack on nearby. Scorching sun, alcohol and an empty stomach aren’t a good combination. Prepare a welcome cocktail for guests as they arrive, and then offer self-serve beer and wine as the party continues. Serve your punch in an enclosed jar with a tap, because no one likes a fly in their drink.
Amy’s Pro Tip: Remember to include a non-alcoholic option for your guests.

Here are two refreshing summer drinks (one with alcohol, one without), to whet your appetite:

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Blue World Pools provides high-quality above ground swimming pools in various locations in the U.S.. To find the right pool for your needs and budget, go here.

REPOST: 10 Reasons to Reconsider the Aboveground Pool

Do you want to install a budget-friendly aboveground swimming pool but fear that it would detract from your home’s landscaping? Read this Yahoo! Shine article for tips on making your backyard pool look more inviting.

Aboveground pools have never been known for high style. Still, they remain a popular and budget-friendly option for those unable—or unwilling—to shell out a fortune for a cool-off spot. These days, however, with pool manufacturers and installers offering new shapes and surround designs, aboveground pools deserve another look. With thoughtful planning and a dose of inspiration, an aboveground pool can be every bit as lovely to the eye and welcoming to swimmers as the in-ground variety. Don't believe it? Click to see proof.

Image Source: yahoo.com

Natural materials thoughtfully positioned on a sloped site make this aboveground pool appear right at home in the yard. The lesson? To seamlessly blend your pool into the environment, opt for a surround made of local stone or wood.

Image Source: yahoo.com

On a sloped property, it's possible to position an aboveground pool so that it looks like an in-ground one. A modern wood deck and high-end furniture add to the classy illusion.

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An aboveground pool with a stained or painted wood surround looks appealing from all angles. Shown here, a pool house drives home the feeling of luxurious comfort.

For the rest of the article, click here.

Blue World Pools is a leading supplier of affordable and stylish above ground swimming pools in the U.S. Check out different models of backyard pools on this website.

REPOST: Days and nights on the tiles: Google staff to get rooftop pool and track

Many Internet conglomerates have come and gone, but Google has showed Europe it is there to stay.  The multinational corporation recently got the green light to build its UK headquarters in London. This article on The Guardian briefly describes the building plans, which include a very large rooftop swimming pool.

Image source: The Guardian

Google looks set to be given a thumbs-up by Camden planners for their not-at-all-over-the-top new London HQ opposite Guardian Towers in King's Cross. The blueprints are for what they breathlessly describe as a "groundscraper", apparently a word for a skyscraper on its side. Google, never one to underestimate its importance in the world, has dubbed the construction scheme, "Project Queen". Property Week, the trade magazine, has more (behind paywall). Lucky Googlers may not have their 20% free time off any more to develop their own projects, but out of hours they will be able to use a rooftop swimming pool, rooftop running track, various gyms and a "Muga". That's a multi-use games area for those who haven't had the privilege.

Google's swimming pool will be one of a kind.  Blue World Pools builds customized in-ground and above-ground pools for a range of clientele.  Visit this website for more information.

Refurbish or demolish? Learn the value of old swimming pools first

Refurbish or demolish? That’s the dilemma of homeowners with old swimming pools wasting away on their yards. While some of them want to keep these amenities but have apprehensions about maintenance cost, others see the added real estate value of in-ground pools.

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Richard Montgomery, a real estate veteran, says that homeowners’ decisions should depend on their “personal preference, lifestyle changes and finances.” Those planning to reuse old pools could renovate them according to designs that cut maintenance prices. Repairs may also be worth the cost if the property is located in a neighborhood where roughly half of the homeowners have swimming pools.

If an old pool becomes an eyesore to a modernized property, it would be best to demolish it. Homeowners can reallocate the money intended for the pool’s renovation and maintenance to other home improvements that add greater value.

Image source: drdanslandscaping.blogspot.com

Meanwhile, homeowners who are planning to sell their property in top condition should survey comparable sold homes with and without swimming pools. If recently sold homes with the same size, style, and amenities command a higher sale price even without a swimming pool, refurbishing the old pool is unnecessary.

Because of the difficult choice between revamping and demolishing in-ground swimming pools, many homeowners are now installing above-ground pools. Homeowners could consult with established installers such as Blue World Pools for removable above-ground pools. This would keep away the refurbish or demolish dilemma in the long run.

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Visit this website by Blue World Pools to check out different models of above-ground swimming pools.

E. coli bacteria thrive in public swimming pools

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Here’s a good reason why it’s better to take a shower at home than wade in public swimming pools.

According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than half of public swimming pools in Atlanta are inhabited by E. coli bacteria, the same bacteria found in feces.

Although the federal agency cannot pinpoint the exact reason for the occurrence of fecal bacteria, they surmise that feces may either be washed off a swimmer’s body or somebody had a bowel movement in the pools. The presence of fecal matter in the pools could also be a result of unhygienic habits of most swimmers—swimming with diapered babies who are not toilet trained and neglecting to take a shower (with soap!) before diving in the waters. Furthermore, people who suffer from diarrhea increase the risk of water contamination. While regular poop in the waters may seem gross, it is the disease-carrying diarrhea that poses threat for swimmers. The skinny-dippers’ urine and sweat inhibit the chlorine’s ability to clean the water.

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Michele Hlavsa, chief of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Healthy Swimming Program, has called for people to practice good hygiene when using public swimming pools. “It is time to stop treating the swimming pool as a toilet,” she says. She also stresses out the importance of taking a shower, considering that average people carry .14 grams of feces on their rear end. As more and more swimmers introduce this amount of feces in the waters, E. coli may soon thrive.

As a rule of thumb for those who plan to dip in public swimming pools despite the “shitty” factor, never swallow the water. “Basically, these pools are big bathtubs we all share together,” says the public health official.

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Above ground swimming pools is a fun, safe, and clean alternative to public swimming pools. Blue World Pools offers high quality above ground pools and professional installation at an affordable price. Visit this website to know more about above ground swimming pools.