REPOST: Planning for a Pool

Like any construction project, building a pool requires careful planning, and various factors – from property size to household preferences – need to be considered beforehand. Some of the most important elements are enumerated in this informative piece on pool planning, construction, and upkeep, from Better Homes and Gardens.

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A pool is a major investment, in many ways. You'll need to invest cash, of course, but also time, energy, and yard space. In this portion of the Pool and Spa Guide, we'll look at the key questions that you'll need to answer before you make these investments.

Things to Consider

• How much pool can I afford?

• Is my yard suited to a pool?

• What zoning restrictions do I face?

• Who should install my pool and how long will it take?

• What should I know about safety and insurance?

Above-Ground Pools

Because these pools are installed rather than built they are more economical than in-ground pools to purchase.

The most basic above-ground pools, requiring no filtration equipment -- also called splasher pools -- will run as little as a few hundred dollars to $1000 for more substantial models.

Larger, more elaborate above-ground pools with filtration equipment will cost between $1,000-$8,000, excluding extras like decking, landscaping and accessories.

In-Ground Pools

Design and construction costs make in-ground pools more expensive to build.

In-ground pools with minimal patio surrounding and basic fencing start around $20,000.

More elaborate designs will run between $40,000 to $100,000+. Choice of pool design and building materials, patio materials, landscaping, lighting and extra features such as spas or fountains determine the cost.

Ongoing Expenditures

Chemicals
The cost for pool chemicals averages between $50 and $100 per month depending on your climate, pool size and frequency of use. Above-ground pools of a similar size will cost the same as in-ground counterparts.

Opening and Closing A Pool
Hiring a professional to open and close your pool each season will run approximately $150-$300. Cleaning and storing your pool cover is usually additional.

Maintenance
The largest maintenance expense is a pool's interior finish. Vinyl liners last approximately 5-7 years, painted concrete needs a new coat approximately every five years; a plaster finish may last 10-15 years. Many of the new cement-coated products such as Pebble Tec are meant to last a lifetime.

Equipment
Equipment lifespans vary tremendously by brand and quality. Other elements such as proper water chemistry and location of equipment can affect lifespan. Because pumps are made to push water rather than draw water, pumps placed at pool level often last longer than those that sit higher and have to pump harder.

Utilities
While utility bills do increase during a pool's open season, experts disagree on how to manage the increase.

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Conditions

Besides determining the best fit for your yard's dimensions consider your yard's slope, soil type and accessibility for construction equipment.

Pools are easier to build or install when a yard is level, however, new technology makes it possible to install a pool in virtually any yard.

Severe conditions such as steeply sloping lots, rocky soil and limited access require special construction and installation considerations and typcially add to the overall cost and duration of the project.

Size

Pool size is primarily a personal choice. Some prefer to eliminate grass entirely and fill the space with pool and patio while others want to include yard in the new landscape.

Be sure you and your contractor have the most up-to-date zoning and building restrictions for swimming pools and spas, and ask your contractor how the permit process is handled.

Zoning is primarily handled on a local level and typically covers such issues as fencing and barriers, pool depth requirements for diving boards, set-backs and proximity to utility lines. Other issues may also be covered.

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Choosing a Contractor

• Get referrals from friends and neighbors.

• Talk to at least three builders.

• Determine number of years in business under present name and ownership.

• Ensure contractor is bonded and insured. Get proof.

• Visit their work firsthand and talk with the homeowners about their experience with this contractor.

• Talk with suppliers about the contractor's status.

• Do they subcontract work or use their own staff?

• Do they have design experience? Do they offer design services?

• It is not customary to pay the full amount up front.

• Get lien waivers for all work completed.

Construction Times

Anticipate a little dirt in your life during construction of an in-ground pool. Your contractor can estimate a project completion date but remember Mother Nature doesn't always cooperate.
An in-ground pool takes anywhere from three to twelve weeks depending on the complexity of the project.
Above-ground pools can be installed in a matter of hours or a few days.

Safety

Safety is a number one concern for pool and spa owners. Proper enclosures and supervision are a must at all times to ensure the safety of children, pets and wildlife that may wander near the pool.

Many specialty safety products are available on the market, including water alarms, high-tech laser technologies, safety covers and personal safety accessories like life jackets and pool floats.

Insurance

Insurance coverage for swimming pools is part of homeowners insurance. Some insurance companies raise premiums for owning a swimming pool and others do not. Speak with your insurance agent prior to purchasing or building your pool.

Blue World Pools specializes in building top-of-the-line, easy-to-install above ground swimming pools. Get to know more about the company: for additional information and list of services, visit this Google+ page.

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: ‘We want a 50m swimming pool’

In Hove, England, swimming enthusiasts and sports advocates are campaigning for the installation of a 50-meter pool within the King Alfred Leisure Centre on the seafront of the city. Among the campaigners were Olympic diver Chris Mears and swimming champion Karen Pickering. Read the full story below:

50m pool campaigners outside Hove Town Hall | Image source: Theargus.co.uk

CAMPAIGNERS made a splash as they called on the council to support plans for a new Olympic-sized swimming pool in the city.

Swimming fans presented a petition signed by more than 2,000 people, including Olympic diver Chris Mears and swimming champion Karen Pickering MBE, to Brighton and Hove City Council on Thursday night.

Nearly 100 supporters gathered outside Hove Town Hall and called on councillors to support the idea of installing a 50m pool within any redevelopment of the King Alfred Leisure Centre on the seafront in Hove.

Swimming clubs across the city came together in support of the plan.

Neil Davies, chairman of the Brighton Dolphin Swimming Club, said: “It is about having a sporting facility for the city. We need more as they are rather lacking.

“To have a 50m pool would encourage competitions and while we are known for culture and creativity we should raise the profile of the sport side.

“We have three clubs vying for space and time in the city’s pools and the 50m pool would help.”

Brighton and Hove City Council has formally notified the development industry of its desire to create a new high quality leisure facility to replace the leisure centre.

A trade press advert seeking interest was published last Saturday as the project went out to tender.

The council is hoping to see the creation of a residential site of around 400 homes and a new leisure centre.

The petition was supported by Mike Weatherly, conservative MP for Hove, who spoke on behalf of the petitioners in the meeting.

He said: “The beauty of a flexible 50m facility is that every now and then, perhaps during the early mornings and Friday evenings, it would be transformed into all of its 50m glory and used by the more serious swimmers – many of whom are children.

“There are large economic benefits too. A 50m pool that can be used for galas will attract teams from all around the country and, indeed, the continent. These teams will use our local hotels and local restaurants.

“They will use our shops and spend money at our attractions. Any other configuration will fail in that regard.”

Blue World Pools offers high-quality above ground pools and professional installation at affordable prices. For inquiries, visit this website.

REPOST: Is there such a thing as an eco-swimming pool?

Eco-friendly swimming pools are not just a trend anymore. They’ve become a necessity to fight water scarcity and secure a more sustainable future. The Guardian lists down ways people can make their pools greener and better for the environment.

Image Source: theguardian.com

Is there such a thing as an environmentally friendly swimming pool?

I learnt to swim as a young girl in late 1980s London, where the closest you could get to eco-friendly swimming was a big sign at the local leisure centre reading “OOL: notice there is no P in this pool, please keep it that way.”

At the time, I took for granted school swimming lessons, Sunday mornings at Acton swimming baths, and summers spent in ramshackle houses in the French countryside where ‘la piscine’ took centre stage.

Twenty-five years on, our relationship with water is changing. The municipal pools and piscines françaises are still there - joined now by their increasingly affluent holiday resort cousins - but so are stories of widespread drought in California, water-related food insecurity in Djibouti, dams being used as weapons of war in the Middle East, and a UN prediction that by 2030 almost 50% of the global population could be facing water scarcity.

In this light, it’s hard to see swimming pools as anything besides luxury indulgences that intensify the difference between the haves and have nots. So what are the options for sustainable swimming pools, and are they anything more than bluewash?

Natural pools

Natural pools such as those designed by Bristol-based company Clear Water Revival is a chemical-free, relatively low-tech and affordable way to create an eco-friendly outdoor pool. To build the structure, materials such as gravel and clay are used in place of concrete and fibreglass, and aquatic plants replace chlorine and expensive mechanical filtering systems with natural purification that enriches the pool with oxygen, supports beneficial bacteria, and provides a natural habitat for aquatic life.

Spanish architectural firm Urbanarbolismo specialises in the integration of nature into architecture, designing green roofs and vertical gardens as well as natural pools. They incorporate edible plants such as cress, celery and mint into the design of their ‘piscinas naturales’, as well as small fish and native shrimp to eat mosquito larvae and other unwanted insects.

Moss Bros

Like natural pools, moss-filtered pools reduce the need for chemicals such as chlorine and algaecide since they inhibit the growth of microorganisms. This also reduces water consumption as there is less frequent need to ‘backwash’ the pool to clean it, a process that sends water to waste.

The University of Maryland uses moss to filter two on-campus pools, calculating that this system reduces chemical use by 40% and water consumption by 75%, while saving the university $6,663 (£4,064) per year after moss costs.

Turning up the heat

When the time came for Stanhope Open Air Swimming Pool in County Durham to replace its four boilers recently, the pool’s chairman sought the help of renewable energy experts Opus Green to help it come up with a sustainable energy solution. The result is a plan to install two new energy efficient condensing boilers and 38 solar PV panels which are expected to reduce the council’s contribution to the pool’s annual energy costs by approximately 20%.

Although the US has been slow to catch on to the use of solar heating in homes and businesses since low natural gas prices have traditionally undercut the costs of solar water heating, there’s nothing new about using solar heating in swimming pools, in America and beyond.

In the Netherlands, Raalte’s local swimming pool is heated by warmth from wastewater. Every hour, 40,000 litres of purified wastewater is transported from the wastewater treatment plant to the pool, where heat exchangers extract heat from the wastewater, making it possible to heat the swimming pool water to 30C. This new system saves the pool an average of €57,000 on gas and reduces its carbon dioxide emissions by 137,000kg per year.

Skimming the surface

For those just dipping their toes into the world of sustainable swimming pools, there are a whole range of options to get started with. Covering a pool when its not in use can significantly reduce evaporation and helps to retain heat. Likewise using a windbreak has been demonstrated to make a notable difference to both energy retention and reduced evaporation.

Where pool maintenance is concerned, Poolcare Leisure has calculated that fixing small leaks matter: for each drop of water lost per second, 8,000 litres of water are lost per year. Likewise, cleaning a pool regularly prevents the build up of algae that, in a non-natural pool, may otherwise lead to the depolyment of additional chemicals.

Pooling resources

And finally to sharing. While owning a private pool may be a status symbol, there’s a growing sharing movement that sees neighbours lend everything from cars to tools to dogs which could easily embrace the shared swimming pool too.

One woman doing just that is Jessie Hayes from Queensland. She said: “I love my pool, but I’m also aware that water is a precious resource. My husband and I decided to offer swims in our pool to our neighbours through Streetbank. So far we’ve had four families take us up on the offer - in the main, we just leave them to it. It’s great hearing the squeals as the kids dive in.”

Blue World Pools is a one-stop shop for affordable and top-of-the-line swimming pools and maintenance services. Click here to learn how you can transform your backyard into your own eco-friendly resort at a price you can afford.

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:

Image Source: luxuryretreats.com

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.

Childproofing a swimming pool? Follow these essential tips

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children are most at-risk for drowning and other water-related injuries. Swimming pool owners should take steps to safeguard the pool for children. Here are a few pointers for childproofing a swimming pool:

Image Source: thesafestline.com

1. Make sure children are supervised at all times. Most pool accidents happen when kids venture to the pool without adults. As much as possible, never leave a child unattended. If a child goes missing, always check the pool first.

2. Build a fence around the pool. This prevents children from running straight to it. According to the CDC, fenced pools prevent accidents and drowning by up to 80 percent.

Image Source: guardianpoolfence.com

3. Remove pool toys when not in use. Pool toys left in the pool might attract children’s attention. Always store them away from the pool when not swimming.

Image Source: cathy.snydle.com

4. Make sure children are wearing life vests when they're swimming. This is true even for short dips, as accidents can happen very fast.

For those planning to build a home pool, it is vital to actively work with the pool builder on the design, particularly its safety features. This ensures the risk of accidents, particularly among children, is greatly reduced.

Safety is a priority for Blue World Pools when designing and building swimming pools. For a complete list of the company’s services, visit its official website.