Archive for the ‘Pool Buying’ Category

Swimming Pool Robotic Vacuums Make Pool Maintenance Easier

Thursday, September 4th, 2008

Those who own a swimming pool have a luxury that others can only imagine. On the other hand, those who do not have a pool have no idea how much work it is to keep up with the maintenance just to keep the pool a clean and sanitary enough place to swim. If you have a pool but not a pool maintenance helper, it is a good idea to look into buying swimming pool robotic vacuums.

When you are selecting swimming pool robotic vacuums, look at what type they are. Some are meant to be used only for in ground polls while others are specifically designed for above ground pools. It is important to get the right kind.

These vacuums can do a lot of cleaning in one hour. Check the specifications to find out how much. Some can clean up to 6500 square feet in one hour and pump 4500 gallons of water through themselves while doing so. This means that the pool gets cleaned quickly and efficiently.

Find out what they will pick up. Some will remove twigs and acorns. They can filter out impurities as small as 2 microns in size. A micron is one millionth of a meter, or about one 40th of the diameter of the finest human hair. The best clean up sand, bacteria, and algae from the pool.

The robotic vacuums can go anywhere in your pool. They can vacuum the entire bottom, steps, and even the sides of the pool. A wireless remote will help you guide the swimming pool robotic vacuums to spot clean certain areas. That is a handy feature if you do not want to clean the entire pool sometimes.

Shop for the vacuums that will clean the kind of pool you have. Get one within your budget that has as many of the features you want as possible. You will save on pool maintenance costs. You will limit the time you spend taking care of your pool as well.

Swimming Pool Deck Designs

Thursday, September 4th, 2008

I have been researching products for swimming pool deck designs and the most functional solutions.

What I have found is that decorative concrete with so many options appears to be the most popular design and function solution. My research found 20 companies that manufacture products for resurfacing existing pool decks alone. These products can transform unattractive surfaces into beautiful functional surfaces in a few days. The popularity of decorative concrete has spread worldwide and is used on residential and commercial properties.
Here is a list of options.

1. Spray Systems - Spray down concrete systems are thin coats for resurfacing existing concrete. Stencils and the use of unlimited color can create swimming pool deck designs in many brick or stone patterns. There is even software imaging that will show a client exactly what the final result will look like.

2. Stampable Overlays - These are thicker coatings than the spray system. When you need a thicker system to blend with an adjacent surface stampable overlays solve this problem. Thickness can be adjusted. There are stamps that make it possible to stamp at a minimum of 1/4 inch thick. Unlimited swimming pool deck designs can be created with patterns and color. For use over existing concrete.

3. Stamped Concrete - Stamped concrete has been around for a while. When done properly stamped concrete looks great. This is for new concrete. Lots of options for swimming pool deck designs, patios, walkways and driveways. The only negative I hear from consumers is the expansion joint s that cut through the pattern.

4. Pavers - Pavers are precast concrete. They come in many styles with unlimited designs. Benefits are that they don’t crack like concrete. If an area becomes uneven the pavers can removed, smooth the grade beneath and reset the paver. The correct sealers will restore faded pavers like new. The only negative is the weeds that will grow through.

Most companies who manufacture the products have created videos showing the processes and design options which makes it easier to make a decision. The 4 options mentioned are ideal for creating value added swimming pool deck designs whether you have existing concrete or planning a new deck.

Pool Supplies - Where and How to Shop For the Best Deals

Thursday, September 4th, 2008

If you don’t know it yet, you will eventually find out in time that a pool owner really never does stop shopping for pool supplies. Sure there are items such as skimmers and folding chairs that can last for years but at the same time, there are plenty of items on your pool supply list that will have to be replenished on a regular basis.

Lock Up Pool Chemicals

Storage is an issue that you will have to confront early on. One thing that works great for storing pool chemicals and anything else that you don’t want kids to get into, is a large metal trash can. String a light chain from one handle under the lid handle then to the other can handle and put a lock on it and that should do.

Games and Toys

Toys floats and pool games can be purchased online for the best deals. If you can afford it, it is always best to pay the extra money for the soft foam models. They last so much longer, never need to be blown up and also are much more comfortable to use. Never buy a car inner tube and bring it into your pool. They have a big metal air spigot that is going to eventually give someone a nasty gash during rough pool play.

Safe Light Balls for Play

Pick up a couple of cheap inflated balls at your local variety store. Make sure to get the cheapo, light plastic variety. This is because kids will be beaning each other on the head with what ever balls that you bring to your pool and a heavy ball can hurt and cause a bloody nose. Also, you will need some heavy towels for your pool, or else the kids will be bringing your nice towels from the bathroom out to the pool.