Above Ground Swimming Pools

Swimming pools are very popular these days, proving to be one of the best investments you can make for your home and your family.  If you live in an area that is known for a hot climate, a swimming pool can be an ideal way to cool off.  You can have friends over at your pool to have fun, or use it to teach your kids how to swim.  Although many people prefer an in ground pool, an above ground pool is just as good - if not better.

Above ground swimming pools are well known for three reasons - safety, installation, and maintenance.  All types of swimming pools can be a chore to maintain, as you have to clean it on a daily basis and ensure that you have the right balance of chemicals in the water.  You also have to keep an eye on the temperature as well, and keep objects such as leaves out of the water.

Above ground pools are easier to maintain for the simple reason of being above ground.  In ground pools are down low, meaning that debris can easily get into it, and animals such as dogs, cats, and even squirrels have easy access to it.  Above ground pools on the other hand are a bit higher up, and make it hard for animals and debris to gain access to the water.  Those of you who are looking for a pool that requires less maintenance - should look into an above ground swimming pool.

Above ground pools are also safer for children as well.  Children can easily fall into in ground pools, for the simple fact that they are low to the ground.  With an above ground pool, children have to climb a ladder before they can get in the water.  This can make it hard for children to gain access, which is exactly what you want.  If you have young children at your house, you can count on an above ground pool to provide a sense of security.

Unlike in ground pools, above ground swimming pools are much easier to install, as you can do it yourself.  You can choose a professional if you like, although above ground pools are so easy to install that anyone can do it.  With these types of pools, there is no digging up your yard or other dangers involved.  All you need to do is clean off an area of your property for the pool, then set everything up.  It normally takes just a few hours to set up your pool, which makes it a very time efficient way of having a swimming pool.

Above ground pools are also cost efficient as well.  Most above ground swimming pools cost nearly 1/4 the price of an in ground pool, making them affordable for even those who on a tight budget.  There are several sizes to choose from, from the smallest and cheapest to the largest.  Even if you get a large model, the prices are still very affordable.  This way, your entire family can have a pool to enjoy in the summer without going broke in the process.

With an above ground swimming pool, you can spend quality time with your family without leaving your home.  Even though there are responsibilities and maintenance involved with a swimming pool, it’s well worth it.  If you have been looking for a great swimming pool, you can rest assured that an above ground pool is well worth the time - and the money.

Swimming Pool Ladders

You can find a swimming pool ladder on almost all types of swimming pools.  Ladders are essential to swimming pools, as they are used to get in and out of the pool.  For both in ground and above ground pools, you can find a variety of different ladders to choose from.  The materials used for the ladders are available in either vinyl, aluminum, plastic, resin, or stainless steel.

The choices of color doesn’t vary too much, although you shouldn’t paint them.  To prevent slipping, some come with anti-skid materials.  Almost all pool ladders are easy to assemble if you follow the instructions, and come with a warranty as well.  You can find pool ladders on the Internet, or at your local department store or pool supply store. 

The ladders used with in ground swimming pools normally include 1 - 5 steps.  Depending on how deep the water is where you are using the ladder, the installation and number of steps will obviously vary.  When you select your ladder, you should make sure that the shape and height is compatible with your pool.  If your pool was formed with concrete, you may have had the ladder or steps formed during installation. If you have a fiberglass or liner pool on the other hand, you’ll need to properly secure the ladder at both the upper and lower ends.

Above ground swimming pools on the other hand, are a bit different.  Most people who have above ground pools have a deck that surrounds the pool, then a ladder than leads down into the water.  You can install your ladder off the deck, or simply position it solely on the pool.  It’s easier to install the ladder running off the deck and into the water, although you’ll need to properly secure it to the deck to ensure that it doesn’t slide off or end up hurting someone.

The ideal swimming pool ladder for an above ground pool should have 2 - 4 steps.  Most above ground pools are 4 - 6 feet in depth, although they can be a bit tough for kids to enter.  The more steps you have on your ladder, the easier it will be for kids to get in and out of the pool.  If you are using your ladder with a deck, you won’t need as many steps.

All things aside, a swimming pool ladder is essential for any swimming pool.  Without a ladder, it would be near impossible to get out of the pool.  If you have an in ground pool, adults and teenagers can get out from the side, although kids will need to use a ladder.  Ladders don’t cost a lot of money, yet they help to simplify getting in and out of your pool. 

Swimming Pool Safety

With any type of swimming pool, whether it’s above ground or below ground, you’ll need to make sure that safety is enforced.  Swimming pool safety is essential with children especially, along with those who can’t swim.  With accidental drowning rates on the rise, you should always make sure that you know a lot about safety - to protect those who swim at your pool.

The most important area of safety with a swimming pool is to make sure that children can’t get into the pool if you aren’t around.  The easiest way to do this is to put a fence around your swimming pool, and make sure that the gate is locked at all times.  Little kids may be drawn to the water, and they can easily fall in and drowned if they aren’t watched. Hundreds of little kids die in the United States alone by drowning, simply because they had access to a swimming pool.  Most of these deaths could have easily been avoided if the swimming pool owner used a fence around his pool.

When you open your pool up for the summer, you should also make sure that you have plenty of safety equipment nearby.  If you have little kids of your own that you know can’t swim, you should always keep them within an arm’s length of you.  If you are going to be taking them into the water, you should use a waist belt or safety jacket with them, to ensure that they stay afloat.  Those of you who have an in ground pool probably have a kiddie area where the water isn’t deep.  This is perfect for teaching little kids to swim, as they can stay in this area until they get comfortable in the water.

Anytime your swimming pool is open, you should make sure that there is always someone around who can swim.  If you let friends use the pool that you know can’t swim, there is always the risk of accidental drowning.  Even though it may not be the intention, it can easily happen in just a few seconds.  Swimming is a lot of fun and great exercise, although it can be very deadly if someone gets in the water that can’t swim.

If you have an above ground swimming pool, you won’t need to have a fence around the pool, unless you want a privacy fence.  Above ground pools require a ladder or deck, which makes it hard for little kids to get into.  On the other hand, some kids who can climb up the ladder may not know how to swim.  If you have kids in your house or kids who use your pool that you know can’t swim, you should always make sure that they understand not to go near the pool unless you are around.

If you enforce swimming pool safety in your home, it will go a long way.  Everyone loves to swim and enjoy the water, especially on hot days.  A swimming pool can provide a lot of fun for the entire family, although you should make safety your first concern.  You can never get too much safety, especially in the event of saving lives.  Before you let someone use your swimming pool, you should make sure that they understand the safety aspects of swimming.  Never allow alcohol around your pool either, as it can easily affect someone’s ability to swim.  If you enforce safety and make sure that those who use your pool have safety in mind - you’ll go a long way in protecting those you love from serious injury or accidental drowning.

Swimming Pool Supplies For Cleaning

Keeping your swimming pool nice and clean is easier than ever these days due to the ever increasing amount of quality cleaning accessories.  There are many tools to choose from, including skimmers, brushes, and vacuum heads.  These tools make pool maintenance easier than ever, meaning that you can spend more time swimming and less time cleaning.

The more specialized tools that are used to clean swimming pools include leaf skimmers, leaf rakes, brushes, corner brushes, pool sweeps, grids and cartridges for the filter, motors and pumps, pool filters, and many more.  Most of these accessories are a must have, especially for those who have trees around their pool.  Leafs in the water can be very annoying and distracting, and should be removed on a frequent basis.

The biggest aspect to keeping your pool nice and clean is to make sure that the care of your water is always up to date.  There are many water care products that you can buy, including balancing chemicals, sanitizes, chemicals to treat algae, stain treatment products, water testing kits, and saltwater systems.  Normally, chlorine is used as a sanitizer, as it helps to get rid of and prevent any organic material that exists in the water.

By using chlorine in your pool, you will greatly reduce the load that organic material puts on the filter.  The regular maintenance of your pH balance and the right levels of alkalinity are also very important to keeping your pool clean.  You should also make sure that you check your calcium as well.  The pump that you use is also important, as it will prevent the waste of energy.  To make things easier on yourself, you can get an automatic pool cleaner that will do just about everything for you.

To get the right amount of chlorine feed, you’ll need to use hand feeding or tablet feeding.  This will ensure that you get the right amount of chlorine in the water.  Chlorine is also important for protecting skin, although you should try not to swallow water that has chlorine in it.  There are saltwater chlorine generators out there as well, which are one of the most popular ways to get the right amount of chlorine in your water. 

As long you use the proper cleaning supplies and products with your pool, you’ll be able to enjoy fresh and clean water whenever you decide to go swimming.  Keeping your water clean is also healthy for your skin, and anyone else who gets in your pool.  You should always make sure that you have cleaning supplies on hand, and check your water on a frequent basis.  You can get a pool testing kit for a little of nothing - which will more than pay for itself when you decide to check your water.

Swimming Pool Waterfalls

A lot of swimming pools these days are now featuring waterfalls along the edges to create a much more enticing visual appeal.  These types of waterfalls are built so the water falls down into the swimming pool, creating a continuous and never ending water flow with the pool.  Sometimes, there are small bulbs placed around the pool, helping to give the water a glittery effect once the water from the waterfall makes contact with the water in the pool.

Swimming pools that feature waterfalls are thought of as being more of a status symbol.  Normally, waterfalls can be found in the bigger hotels and resorts, and sometimes in big mansions if the owners can afford them.  There are other locations, such as popular water attractions and theme parks that have them as well. 

Waterfalls also provide a great attraction for little kids, as they like to play in the water as it goes up and over their heads - then comes down on top of them.  Depending on the size of the swimming pool, there can be several waterfalls attached.  Most often times, swimming pools that have multiple waterfalls can be found with exquisite resorts and the most popular of water parks.

These days however, waterfalls are becoming more and more affordable, and can be found with many private swimming pools.  You can also find smaller swimming pools that have smaller waterfalls constructed along the walls of the pool.  Even though they don’t produce a wide arc, they do create a splash effect that’s simply amazing to watch.

To use waterfall, you’ll first need a swimming pool.  The easiest way to construct a waterfall is when your pool is being built, so it can be built into the pool.  You must also make sure that the water going into the waterfall is clean.  You’ll also need to treat and clean the water going into the waterfall on a regular basis, as it can easily build up moss and algae if you don’t.

There are some waterfall models that will allow warm water to flow through them.  Keep in mind, warm water is used more for health than aesthetic appeal.  If you are using your waterfall for swimming, you obviously wouldn’t want to use warm water.  On the other hand, if it’s just for show or occasional use, then warm water waterfalls may be something of interest to you.

Although they are great to look at and watch, a pool waterfall can cost you a lot of money.  If you have the waterfall constructed at the same time you have your pool built, you can help save yourself a lot of money.  If you’ve thought about getting a waterfall - you should always plan things ahead and try to save yourself as much money as possible.

Things To Know About Swimming Pools

In the warmer areas of North America, swimming pools are very popular.  They provide great fun and exercise, along with plenty of entertainment for your entire family.  When you decide to buy a swimming pool, you’ll have two options to choose from - in ground pools or above ground pools.  Both types are different, in appearance and what they have to offer you.

Above ground swimming pools are the most affordable, as the prices range from $500.00 - $7,000.00.  Above ground pools are also easier to install, and even portable.  Normally, you can have this type of pool installed and ready for use in a few hours.  You can self install them if you wish, which will save you money.  If you have the money to spare, you can always have a professional install it to ensure that everything is done correctly.

Pools that are in the ground cost a lot more.  The prices for an in ground swimming pool can reach as high as $50,000.00, depending on the size of the pool, the design, and the materials that are used.  The most expensive type of in ground pool is concrete, which is custom poured to virtually any shape you can imagine. 

You can also get a heater to help control the temperature of the water in the pool.  You can get a standard type of heater or solar heater.  If you have a solar heater in mind, you should make sure that your pool has been placed in a location where it will receive a lot of sun.  If you use a solar powered heater but don’t place your pool in the sun, it’ll prove to be a waste of money.

To protect yourself in the long run, you should always refer to the zoning laws for your area regarding a swimming pool or a deck.  This way, you’ll know what the laws are regarding your swimming pool.  Once you know what the laws and regulations are, you should always do anything you can to ensure that you meet the requirements and that your pool is within the guidelines.

Even though heat and hot summer days are the main reasons why most want a pool, there are other benefits as well.  Swimming is one of the best exercises you can do for your body, so a pool will offer you a lot of health benefits.  Keep in mind that unless you are using a heater to heat your pool, you’ll only be able to use it during the summer.  If you choose to use a heater however, you can extend summer and get a lot more enjoyment from your swimming pool.

Once you have bought your pool and have everything going, it can cost you quite a bit to keep everything going.  Pools need to be maintained, which can tend to be expensive.  You can do this yourself or hire a professional, although either way will cost money.  The equipment you’ll need and the chemicals are expensive, and you should know that up front before you make your purchase.

All in all, swimming pools are great for your property.  Whether it’s an above ground swimming pool or in ground pool, your family will love it.  You’ll have somewhere to go on hot days together, to relax and enjoy the cool water.  Once you have a swimming pool you won’t have to use the local pool anymore - and you won’t have to deal with the crowds or long lines anymore.

Tips For Swimming Pool Covers

Covers for your swimming pool are available in an array of different colors, sizes, shapes, and purposes.  To heat your pool and keep it protected at the same time, you can get a solar cover.  If safety is your biggest concern, you can get safety covers that cover your pool and keep people and animals out of it as well.  For both above ground pools and in ground pools, you can always find a cover to keep your pool protected from people, animals, and even the harsh weather of winter.

When looking for a cover for your swimming pool, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.  The first thing to do, is to look for a cover that is strong and sturdy.  The cover you select should keep your pool clean from debris, but also provide safety for people who accidentally step out on to it.  The cover should be strong enough to prevent people from drowning, and also sturdy enough to keep debris and other things from getting access to the water.

You’ll also need to make sure that the cover you select is acceptable with both local and state regulations.  Even though the laws and regulations vary, there are some areas that require a certain type or size cover.  If you check with local police force, they should be able to tell you whether or not the cover you are using is acceptable with the regulations provided for your area.  You should always check before you buy a cover, in the event that what you are interested in isn’t accepted.

Before you buy your cover, you should always ensure that it comes with a warranty.  Most swimming pool covers include a warranty of 2 years or more.  The cover that you buy should also include a warranty that covers all types of defects.  You don’t want to buy a cover that isn’t warrantied, as you only want to buy a cover for your pool that you can trust - from a company that you know stands behind what they sell.

Before buying, you also want to be sure that your cover offers a good overlap length, by buying a size that is a bit larger than the dimensions of your pool.  Doing so will give you more than enough room to anchor your cover down to the swimming pool and not have to worry about not having enough pool cover.  You can stretch your swimming pool cover out over your pool, and still have plenty of room left to make sure that it fits tight.

When you buy the cover for your swimming pool, always make sure that it includes everything you need to begin using it immediately.  Depending on the type you select, you will get either straps or anchors.  You should always make sure that there was no spillage with the cover, and everything you need is inside.  The last thing you want is to buy a swimming pool cover that is missing vital components that you need to use the cover.

Swimming pool covers are essential to keeping your pool safe and clean, and should always be used if you own a swimming pool.  If you buy a cover that is good quality and good material, it should last you for several years.  You can find swimming pool covers at your local supply store, or in any department store that sells pool gear. Always make sure that you read the instructions and other related material before you buy, to make sure that the cover you are interested in will work with your swimming pool.

Types Of Swimming Pool Covers

All across the United States, thousand and thousands of people own swimming pools.  A swimming pool can provide a lot of fun and excitement, although it can also be dangerous.  As many of us already know, it only takes a few seconds for a child to drown.  To stop this from happening, you should use a pool cover to cover your swimming pool.

Along with protecting your swimming pool, covers have other uses as well.  You can get solar powered pool covers, which will help to keep your water warm from the heat of the sun and protect your pool at the same time.  For those looking for the best in protection, there are hard top swimming pool covers out there that are very sturdy and can keep just about anything out of your pool.

If you live in a warm climate area, you may want to get a basic plastic cover for your pool, which will keep it clean and protected. These covers will keep dust, dirt, and leaves out of your pool when you aren’t using it.  Depending on where you live and what needs you have, the cover you need will vary.

Covers for your swimming pool come in several different choices as well, such as net, mesh, vinyl, and so on.  Mesh pool covers are very popular, as they offer a tight fitting barrier which helps to keep your pool clean and free of debris, reduce maintenance, reduce evaporation, and keep your pool from unauthorized access. 

Vinyl pool covers on the other hand, provide an amazing source of security.  These pool covers operate via key, and help to keep debris out of your pool.  They are also great for insulating and retaining heat, along with reducing any loss of chemicals.  Vinyl is a very popular type of pool cover, being used by hundreds of thousands of pool owners.

No matter what type of pool cover you select, you can rest assured that it will do a lot in protecting your swimming pool.  They don’t cost you a lot of money, yet they can go a long way in helping to prevent a child from accidental drowning.  Depending on the type of swimming pool you have, the type of covers you have to choose from will vary.

From above ground pools to in ground pools, a swimming pool cover is something that you absolutely must have.  There are many different types available, designed to fit all swimming pools.  Before you buy a swimming pool cover you should first look at the package and make sure that it will work with your swimming pool.  Some types of swimming pool covers may not work with your swimming pool - which makes it all the more important to double check.

Types Of Swimming Pools

Swimming pools provide a great way to relax, exercise, and enjoy yourself on a hot summer day, coming in a variety of different shapes and sizes.  To efficiently and safely operate a swimming pool, you’ll need to have a pump, basin, water filter, chemical feeder, return, drains, and the proper plumbing to transport your water.

Depending on the basin structure, there are various types of pools available for you to choose from.  Above ground swimming pools are the easiest to build and the cheapest to buy, as they come with pre-made kits.  Fiberglass pools are built using molded fiberglass, reinforced plastic.  Fiberglass pools are in ground, and can provide you years and years of family fun and swimming excitement.

Vinyl lined swimming pools are the cheapest types of in ground designs you can get, although you’ll need to have the liner replaced every 10 years or so.  Concrete is another popular design for in ground pools, as they provide plenty of room and no need to have the liner replaced.

There are also the public swimming pools, which include heated indoor pools, children’s pools, and outdoor pools.  Public swimming pools are well known for their slides and other features such as waterfalls and splash pads.  Public pools are great for hot days, although most prefer to get their own pool due to public pools being so crowded on a frequent basis.

Swim spas, or exercise pools are also popular, known for their resistance swimming.  Swimming is one of the best exercises that you can do for your body, as it works just about every muscle in your body.  There are several exercises that you can do in an exercise pool, such as jogging, water toning, and water yoga.

No matter what type of swimming pool it may be, it’s very important that the chemicals stay balanced.  If the balance of the chemicals is off, it can damage the water, which can really irritate your skin and your eyes.  Therefore, swimming pools need to be disinfected on a daily basis and treated with various chemicals.  To maintain the proper health of the skin, purifying the water is very important. 

If you are looking to add a swimming pool to your property, there are several for you to choose from.  Swimming pools can help add property value to your home, which is always a good thing.  When you add a swimming pool to your property, you should always think in terms of safety, and ensure that your pool is protected against young children.  If you take care of your pool and always make sure that things are clean and safe, your pool will provide you with plenty of fun for years and years to come.

Winterizing Your Swimming Pool

Once fall ends and winter begins to rear it’s ugly head, it will be time to shut your pool down.  When shutting your pool down, the first step will be the water.  You should begin by checking your pH level, and making sure that it is around 7.5.  If it isn’t, simply add some dry acid.  You should also check your chlorine as well, and use a winterizing product to make sure that your pool will be protected from algae during the few months that you won’t be swimming.

During the winter months, you should run your pump for around 6 hours a day, to ensure that the algae doesn’t settle in.  You should also go ahead and check for any types of leaks as well, then switch your skimmer valve off and let the water drain to around 6 inches below the skimmer’s bottom.  This way, you’ll have the preferred amount of water in your pool.

If you are using a summer cover, take it down and give it a good cleaning using fresh water and a pressure washer if you have access to one.  Once you have cleaned the cover really good, go ahead and put it in your building or garage and break out your winter cover.  When you put your winter cover on the pool, make sure that you have plenty of tension on the cover, to prevent anything from getting under it.

Although you may have put the cover on tight, you should still check it every couple of days to make sure that it is still tight.  Remind your family and friends that you have closed your pool down for the winter, and that they shouldn’t be around it.  Pool covers are designed to protect your pool and the water - they aren’t made for safety.  Never, under any circumstances should you let a pet or a person on the cover.

Once you have finished with the cover, it is time for the equipment.  You’ll need to drain the water from your pump, heater, and your filter.  Each one should have a drain plug located somewhere near the bottom, which makes it easy to drain the water out.  You should never forget to do this, as the water can freeze inside of your equipment during the cold months of winter and result in permanent damage of your equipment.

Once you have finished getting your swimming pool ready for winter, you can relax knowing that your pool is protected.  Keeping a check on it every few days will ensure that nothing has happened.  Once summer starts to arrive again, you can get your pool ready for summer and prepare to open it up again.  If you’ve done things right - your pool will be ready to go in no time at all.