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Posts Tagged ‘swimming pool’

With the use of concrete, steel, some plumbing and a lot of custom labor, most built-in pools and spas are constructed pretty uniform with some ordinary features.  This standard pool and spa design is the most common pools found around the world because of it’s average and normal pool design and building methods.  Most pool builders choose this type of pool because of it’s simple features, basic plumbing, and construction method.  For years, this was the ONLY swimming pool and spa constructed for the public sectors of the pool and spa business. 

As of the past few years, some unique advances have been added to basic swimming pools to develop some high-end swimming pools.  The pool and spa industry has improved because of some technological improvements.  One of the largest markets for concrete swimming pools is Phoenix, AZ – and check out what this Phoenix pool builder is doing to highlight their unique swimming pools.

Swimming Pool Waterfalls and Water Features - Waterfalls are effects found in some everyday swimming pools, but the truly high-end pools sport some pretty up-scale water features.  There are two considerations for rock waterfalls.  A pool company can install natural rocks or artificial rock, depending on the overall required look.  When pool owners desire some unique features such as rock waterslides, grottos, and other custom items, synthetic boulders may be the only way to go.  Another custom water feature, the “sheer descent” is a really architectural waterfall that is used by many Phoenix pool builders since it creates a flawless waterfall.  Fountains, aqua arches, laminars, and deck jets are also very popular pool features.

Negative Edge Pools  – The negative edge swimming pool is the perfect swimming pool design when working with an area of property that slopes away from the pool.  This natural incline enables the swimming pool contractor to create a disappearing or negative edge that is invisible from the person viewing the pool.  A swimming pool designed as such can be referred to with many common names: infinity edge, vanishing edge, zero edge, edge-less, reverse negative edge, and negative edge.  The zero edge pool is an incredible feature when building a pool with an ocean, lake or pond in the backdrop, since the pool’s edge and the water behind have no definitive borders. 

Reverse Negative Edge – A reverse negative edge is such where the swimming pool builder constructs the pool in the back and has the retention basin in the front, creating a natural waterfall spillover for the viewers in front.  This can be an excellent choice for a swimming pool when constructing a pool with a rising backyard incline.

Pool automation systems – The truly advanced pools and spas have an automation system that can control every aspect of your swimming pool and spa.  By a quick touch of the remote, one can completely control the entire swimming pool and spa.  Imagine the computer turning on the spa heater, changing the valves, and firing up the hot tub, all in one single touch of the remote.  This swimming pool automation can now tell pool owners their water temperature, pump speed and energy usage, air temperature, timers and settings, and a whole lot more!  Only the best built pools have this new technology that can even be controlled from your home computer.

Color LED and Fiberoptic lighting- For some of the best features at night, swimming pool builders use the newest technology in LED and fiberoptics.These underwater lighting systems can produce some awesome water color displays.  In addition to turning the water some pretty vibrant colors of blue, green, and purple, these new lighting features now have fully programmable color “shows” that allow pool and spa owners to experience RED, WHITE & BLUE for the fourth of July!  Some lighting systems have as many as 15 different color displays and combinations in which to choose.

Automated sanitization systems- Maintaining chemicals in your swimming pool is one of the most time consuming chores of owning a pool and spa.  Many of today’s automation systems allow for the pool to automatically control maintenance items such as chlorine, pH, and other chemical levels.  With the new salt systems for swimming pools, swimming poolowners allow their pool to automatically produce chlorine through a small electrical reaction.  Proper chemical levels and balances can also be controlled with other automated systems such as ozone, chlorine free, and pH management.

Beach Entrances – The beach entry has been around for ages, and is a spectacular feature for any backyard swimming pool.  The beach entry is great because it allows the pool owner to walk directly into the pool without having to step down into the pool or pool step.  Picking which water level is appropriate for you is a decision that beach entry owners love to make.  Beach entries are tricky to build, and one of the most challenging features to make look great.

 Swim up bars- The residential swimming pool market of Phoenix demands some pretty creative swimming pool builders.  It takes some of the most experienced pool contractors to coordinate the methods and details to construct a swim up pool bar, especially when designed with a sunken patio and ramada.  Since many pool and spa builders need multiple licenses to build pools AND ramadas, this construction combination can be a challenging one.  Swim-up bars are an increasingly popular feature for high-end backyard projects because of the strong desire to bring resort features into the backyard pool.  Some of the most competent pool builders still reach to the services of a Phoenix landscape company or general contractor for total project management.

For your next CUSTOM pool and spa project, your swimming pool must include one or all of these incredible pool and spa must-haves.  Consider hiring a swimming pool builder with years of experience in building these types of features.  The best way to find out about your swimming pool builder is to actually see some projects that include the features that you are considering for your upcoming pool and spa.  As Arizona experts warn, “make sure their Phoenix beach entry pools are up to construction standards, and most importantly…yours!

Incredible Swimming Pools Spas & Hot Tubs

Building a New Swimming Pool

During this tough economy, every dollar counts, so, when undertaking a large investment, like buying a new swimming pool, one should make sure that ones dollar bills are spent wisely.  When choosing to buy a new swimming pool, your choice should be a careful one.  There are many ways to construct a new swimming pool, and some of these methods are not very good techniques for longevity.  Some swimming pool companies specialize in some of the best construction techniques for building a new pool, while other companies focus on building cheap & quick pools for their clients.  The largest decision in building a new swimming pool is finding the right pool contractor.  Following a close second, is the actual design and layout of the swimming pool project in your backyard or project area.  The following are some of the things you need to consider before undertaking your own swimming pool project.

Hiring a Pool Company -This is probably one of the most important steps, so you need to do the most research on the actual pool company before hiring them. Pool and Spa contractors are notorious for being some of the most sneaky contractors in the construction business. For the plain fact that any contractor can build swimming pools with a truck and a few subcontractors.  For this reason alone, the new pool buyer should consider what type of company they are hiring, and performing research on the size and longevity or the contractor will tell the most.  Here are a few simple suggestions to consider when making a pool and hot tub contractor choice:

1. Business Longevity - Selecting a pool contractor that has been in business for less than two years is a greater risk.  It actually takes many years for pool warranties to show, so you could be selecting a company on the verge of some serious issues.  Look for a swimming pool contractor that has been building pools for more than 3 years.
2. Company Size – the size of a swimming pool contractor can determine a lot about the actual pool builder.  Knowing that a pool builder can work out of his pickup truck, make sure you find a company with actual employees.  Having employees, a crew, or an administrative staff is a sure signal that he is committed to developing a good pool company.
3. Licenses – A few states require a swimming pool license before a pool contractor can develop a swimming pool. AZ swimming pool contractors actually have to show 5 years of experience in building pool before they can get a license. Actually, it’s a very difficult license to obtain for a contractor. Make sure your pool builder has the proper licenses necessary to construct swimming pools legally.
4. Builder Reputation – It’s an easy task to go on the internet and do some fact finding on the companies you are hiring.  Try local pool networks, National Pool Associations (APSP – Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, the Better Business Bureau, or any other means of contractor reviews.
5. Company Appearance – When undertaking a huge investment like a pool and hot tub, it’s best to consider a pool company that looks professional. Noticing the appearance of a companies trucks, staff, office, and website are all ways to determine what quality of work you should be expecting.
6. Pool Building Techniques – There are several methods to install swimming pools. Understanding the methods on how that pool contractor designs and builds swimming pools will help you consider if that swimming pool business is for you.
7. Go with your GUT – There’s a lot to be said of “human instinct”, so after doing your research on the company, it’s staff, and it’s techniques – just go with your gut feeling!

After you have selected a swimming pool company to build your new pool, then it is time to focus on a few general criteria.Possibly, during the interview process, you may have been shown some incredible pool plans from the pool & spa designer.  This is a great first step, and may push you through to the next level. Designing a pool and hot tub to fit your budgetary goals, your family needs, and overall look is desired. Be sure to spend adequate time when designing your new swimming pool. Make sure you invest in the things for your new swimming pool that will allow you to enjoy it.  Remember, pool remodeling Phoenix  can be quite time-consuming and expensive, so make sure you do it right the first time, claims an expert in Arizona swimming pools and landscaping in Phoenix!

Lastly, the actual pool and spa construction should be a important concern for pool buyers.  Here are several phases of building a new swimming pool, and how each phase should be constructed to ensure longevity for your new pool.

Plumbing a Pool:  Pool plumbing is not given the respect that it deserves, since it’s mostly covered up by the concrete & decking.  The plumbing of the pool is probably one of the most important factors of the pool, and using proper PVC pipes & fittings is key.  Look for a company that pays special attention to pool plumbing.Items to look for: pipes oversizes, 45 degree plumbing, extra plumbing, control valves, and organizes plumbing methods. 

Steel & Rebar:  Structural steel and re-bar is what holds the shell of the pool together.Rule of Thumb: The more re-bar the better, the closer the spacing – the better.  The bond beam is a major part of the swimming pool (and it could fail over time), so make sure it has up to 5 re-bars!). 

Equipment:  One of the most expensive investments in a new swimming pool is the pool equipment.  Many pool builders look for ways to save money on cheap pumps, inadequate filters, and other improper parts.  Pentair Pool Products offers some of the most technologically advanced and energy efficient new pool equipment on the market.  Hire a swimming pool builder that installs adequate pool equipment and understands how to install equipment. 

Swimming Pool Shell:  The swimming pool shell of the pool is made up of concrete, and this is what holds the pool together for life.  It’s something that should endure the life spa of the swimming pool, and to do so – using a fortified shotcrete (3500 PSI (or higher)), fibermesh reinforcing fibers, and a 4-day water-cure application.

Interior of the pool:    Not all interior surfaces are equal. Find a company that uses some of the best and most reputable interior finishes available.  PebbleTec is one of the best brand names in the pool business.  There are many other interior finishes available, and finding a company that understands the pros and cons of each is key. 

Landscaping & Patios: Most pool & spa contractors do not perform the actual landscape or decking portion of the job.  Hiring a company that can complete the landscaping and hardscape portion of the project will make life easier for the homeowner.  Many pool companies are trained to bring a landscape company to you, but the best bet is to find a swimming pool and landscape company that can do it all! 

Buying or building a new swimming pool can be a very enjoyable experience, and a great way to increase the value of your home, as well as get outside and have fun!  If you do the proper research, and understand you get what you pay for…  your new swimming pool will be the center of your family entertainment for years to come.

When the warmer summer weather comes our way people look for ways to cool down. One of the most popular is to install an affordable above ground swimming pool in the back garden.

But a new study, published by the American Centre for Disease Control, has highlighted the dangers of swimming pool chemicals. Pool chemicals are responsible for 5,200 emergency room visits in North America each year and these are all preventable.

The report highlights how people are injured by inhaling fumes when opening chemical containers, attempting to pre-dissolve the chemicals, handling them improperly and splashing chemicals into their eyes. It is hoped that raising awareness of the dangers will help to avoid further injuries.

Swimming pool chemicals are used to keep pool water clean and safe for bathing. Without proper treatment swimming pool water can quickly become hazardous and potentially a source of infection.

Swimming pool owners need to ensure that they are fully aware of how pool chemicals should be handled, how they should be applied to the pool water, how to test the pool water in order make certain it is safe for bathing and, importantly, how to store pool chemicals safely.

Storage of pool chemicals is important and they should always be placed in a clean, cool and well ventillated area. Chemical containers should be kept separate and always located well out of the reach of children and animals.

Protect your eyes with goggle and your hands with rubber gloves when handling pool chemicals. After handling chemicals it is important to wash the hands thoroughly and it should be remembered that chemicals should be added to water and not the other way around. Measuring containers should always be clean and dry and no more than the stated dose should ever be applied at one time. Another, often overlooked, safety requirement is that old chemicals should never be mixed with new, even if they are the same type.

If you have never handled swimming pool chemicals before it is recommended that you read all instructions and, ideally, get your pool chemical supplier to advise you how to use them safely.

Above Ground Pool Installation

Many people still believe that swimming pool ownership is reserved for the rich. These days you could have your own above ground swimming pool installed in your back garden for very little cost.

Imagine the benefits of having your own private swimming pool. You and your family can take a dip any time you like. There will be no need to visit the often over-crowded public pool for a swim. Just slip on your bathers and hop into your personal pool to cool down.

Above ground pools have become the favourite choice for a number of reasons.

• Usually they don’t require any special ground work preparation.
• They are easy to install.
• Modern above ground pools are built to last, cheap to run and incredibly cheap to buy.
• Above ground pool maintenance is relatively simple.
• Above ground pools are inherently safer than inground pools.

Being above ground this type of swimming pool doesn’t require a huge hole to be dug in your garden. The ground work preparation for above ground pool installation is relatively simple often requiring nothing more than levelling.

Building the pool itself can often be successfully accomplished by a DIY enthusiast. If a professional installation team are engaged to carry out the work the costs involved are significantly reduced, when compared with an in-ground equivalent, due to the simplicity of the process.

Modern above ground pools are built from various robust materials. Today thera are above ground pools with attractive wooden surrounds, robust metal frame pools and even inflatable above ground pools that simply need blowing up and filling with water. With such a wide variety to choose from you are certain to find a pool that fits both the space in your garden and the cash in your pocket.

All swimming pools require routine maintenance which generally involves cleaning, inspecting for damage, changing filters and replenishing swimming pool water treatment chemicals. Since the top of an above ground pool is above ground level the amount of wind blown debris that gets intor the pool is immediately reduced which means less cleaning.

Owning a swimming pool comes with a few responsibilities. The most important is to ensure that the pool  is safe for people and animals who might come close to the pool. An in-ground pool is immediately more prone to people and animals inadvertently falling in. An above ground pool means that users must climb steps to get into the pool which immediately makes them much safer.

If you have been considering the installation of a pool in your back garden then there has probably never been a better time to look at the fantastic variety of in ground pools available today. There are such a variety you are bound to find a style that meets your needs.

How Heat Pumps Work

If you are lucky enough to own your own swimming pool you will understand the importance of your pool heating system.

Without a swimming pool heater your pool can remain unusable for most of the year. The water is simply too cold for comfort and nobody will want to go for a dip. Warm that water a little and your swimming pool becomes comfortable and popular. But choosing an economical and effective swimming pool heater can be quite a headache.

In recent years many pool owners have moved away from traditional pool heaters that use gas, oil or electricity and they’ve started to use heat-pumps.

Heat pumps work by transferring heat from a source (usually the surrounding air, the ground or water) to the swimming pool water. They are exceptionally energy efficient and environmentally friendly as they will consume far less energy than they produce. For example, a typical swimming pool heat pump system will consume around 1kW of electrical energy to produce 5kW of heat energy. This may seem like magic, but you should remember that the system is collecting heat energy from the source, typically the ground.

One of the most important factors for swimming pool owners is reduced cost. While the initial outlay for a heat-pump system can be a little more than an equivalent traditional system that uses oil, gas or electricity the running costs can be considerably less. This means that the heat pump is likely to pay for itself very quickly. The other benefits are a swimming pool that can be used for longer periods during the year and reduced environmental impact.

When purchasing a heat pump based system there are lots of things to consider. For example, the material used for the heater element influences the price of these units greatly (titanium lasts longer but costs more). If you are interested in finding out more it is recommended that you speak to a reputable swimming pool supplier who has experience with a range of swimming pool heat pump systems.

Above Ground Swimming Pool Build

The winter is the time of year when lots of people begin to think about their summer holidays, particularly when the weather is as cold as it has been. But the colder months are also the best time of year to build your own swimming pool.

The current world-wide economic downturn is forcing many people to reconsider their planned house moves as the value of property continues to fall. Uncertainty in the housing market is leading to many people looking at their existing homes and considering ways that they can enhance their property. Rooms in the roof, extensions, new kitchens and garden makeovers are all excellent ways to make the most of your current property, give you the space that you need and improve the quality of your life. Another is to build a swimming pool in your garden.

Lots of people think that swimming pool building is a project that is best carried out in warmer weather. But building during the cooler months brings a number of advantages. You will find that out-of-season swimming pool pricing can be very favourable indeed, providing some significant savings over the prices charged during the peak months. Swimming pool availability is another factor that is influenced by the time of year. You’ll find it easier to find the pool that you want during the off-peak, low-demand period of the year. Also, delivery and installation can be more favourable outside of the peak summer months.

The big advantage is that your new swimming pool will have been installed and ready to use as soon as the weather turns that little bit warmer in the spring. As soon as that warm weather appears you can be sure that your swimming pool supplier and installer will be immensely busy with a backlog of orders and installations to fulfil.

My advice to anyone who has been toying with the idea of having their own swimming pool installed in their garden is to gather a few quotes from reputable swimming pool suppliers now. You should be able to negotiate a substantial discount and get yourself a bargain pool installed and ready for some summer fun.