What to Consider Before Building a Pool

Getting a pool is a big decision. Having one built in a home entails proper planning, financing, and execution. This is why it is important to work only with trusted pool designers and contractors, who can meet their clients’ expectations. To get a satisfactory outcome, certain aspects have to be considered and determined at the onset, including those mentioned below.

First off, it is important for homeowners to determine the function of the pool. Would it be a place for entertaining family and guests? Or perhaps a place for water-related exercises? Once owners have pinpointed the function of the pool, it would be easier for contractors to design the pool at the most strategic location.

Next, owners should consult pool construction professionals about the suitability of a pool in their yards. This step is crucial, as it can influence the total cost of building the pool. Contractors often say that a level yard is more conducive for a pool. Constructing one in inclined and steep yards is feasible, but often entails additional costs.

Once the pool’s specifications and functions have been sorted out, the homeowner and contractor can decide on the pool’s design, including its shape and size. They have to consider, as well, that the pool area should include space for the patio, decks, and other poolside features. Thorough planning has to be made to ensure all the elements come together into an attractive whole.

Your Pool Doesn’t Have to be Blue

Water is colorless, so why are most pools colored blue?

Maybe it's tradition; people often associate the color blue with water, particularly the ocean. The ocean, however, merely reflects the sky, which in turn, gets its blue color through a phenomenon known as the Rayleigh scattering. On the other hand, there are those who think of blue as the color of cleanliness, in contrast to dirty and grimy hues.

While blue is the most popular pool color, it is not your only choice. In fact, several pools around the world have already broken away from the “blue” tradition. The Library Koh Samui's Red Pool in Thailand is one of the most popular examples of a non-blue pool. It gets its red color from the strategic installation of red, yellow, and orange tiles.

You can choose any color you see fit, but experts say green is ill-advised, as it is the color of algae. Choosing green may camouflage algae, preventing early detection of the harmful growth in your pool. Black pools, on the other hand, are a great way to save on heating costs because the color absorbs light and heat better than others.

So feel free to break with tradition, and have a pool that’s truly and uniquely, your own.

Tips on Making Your Pool Area a True Oasis

Getting a pool can be one of the greatest decisions you can make towards making your house a real home. It presents significant potential in turning your space into someplace you can unwind and get away from the rush of New Jersey life.

For instance, you can install outdoor speakers, or even a complete sound system, that will add music to your pool area. Few things are as soothing as hearing your favorite tunes as you end the day, whether it’s jazz, classical, or even heavy rock to suit your tastes. Another way to spice up your backyard is by adding lights such as pool globes, candles, or outdoor chandeliers. After the strain of computers and white office lights in your eyes, the prospect of spending the rest of the day surrounded by a gentle, evening glow can make you more excited to come home.

Lastly, making your pool area a comfortable place to lounge in can be as easy as putting pillows, hammocks, blankets, or rugs around the space. Doing so creates a restful, inviting atmosphere for family, friends, and guest.

Enhancing your backyard with these tips can be a great DIY project if you have the time, but hiring a trustworthy New Jersey pool company that also offers landscaping services can be an invaluable partner in making your poolside area a genuine oasis in the middle of all that life demands.

Things to Ask Yourself Before Getting a Pool

Having a pool in the backyard can be one of the best additions to a family home. It’s a great space for bonding with relatives and friends and is a relaxing place to unwind from the daily grind of New Jersey life. However, getting a pool is not as simple as getting up one day and deciding you want one. There are several points to consider before you push through with getting the newest highlight of your backyard. Some of these are:

• How much are you willing to spend on the pool?
• Will a pool fit your back yard?
• What zoning restrictions should you satisfy?
• What company should you use and how long will the installation be?
• How about safety guidelines and insurance?

Expenses, available space, company to use, zoning restrictions, and safety considerations are important questions to contemplate before committing to a pool. After this, you must also decide on what kind of pool you want. Would you like an aboveground pool? How about an in-ground pool? Would it have a slide for the kids, or would you like to have a spa for when guests are staying over? Consulting a reputable pool contractor will help you with these questions, but ultimately, the answers are up to you.

Turning Your Swimming Pool Green!

No, this isn’t about waking up to find your pool literally green with algae or moss. Rather, it is about observing these simple ways to keep your pool eco-friendly.

Keep your pool covered. Outdoor pools are under direct sunlight making losing water due to evaporation inevitable. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water loss in pools leads to about 70% energy loss, as evaporated water also carries heat out of the pool. Likewise, losing water to evaporation means constant refilling, which increases water consumption and causes pool pumps to work overtime.

Raise Your Property’s Value by Adding a Pool

If you're thinking of added ways to increase the value of your property, you might want to rethink that extra space in your backyard. According to housing statistics, the value of New Jersey homes can generally appreciate by 2 percent with the addition of a pool. This figure can be higher in an area where many other homes have pools.