Swimming pools

The most expensive aspect of having a swimming pool is the construction of it. Maintenance is also expensive. Therefore, those who have garden swimming pools usually strive to get as many hours of use out it as possible. This equates to sitting in the garden at the poolside whenever they can and inviting friends and family around to share it all with them.

However, there is one more thing that you can do to raise the number of hours you can spend in your pool – you can lengthen the season that you are able to use it in. The temperature of the water is the only real restriction on swimming outside, it does not really matter whether it is snowing or raining as long as the water is warm enough. (more…)

Thinking of putting in an in-ground pool? This major renovation can add value, beauty, and versatility to your home, but it’s not the job for the weekend DIYer, in spite of what some websites say. Pools require major excavation, and need the services of a reputable contractor.

The basic process for installing an in-ground pool seems fairly straight forward. First, dig a big hole, line it with gunite or vinyl, and fill it with water. However, this deceptively simple process can be fraught with pitfalls which you probably can’t handle. (more…)

Summer is a time for getting outside to enjoy the sun and recreational activities with friends and family. Where there is water there is a way of enjoying the sun and cooling off at the same time. There is nothing like having a pool at home on those hot days when swimming is the best way to cool off in the middle of a summer’s day. There are several ways to enhance the pool with swimming pool landscaping.

Landscaping Style Depends On Different Types of Swimming Pools

The landscaping should depend on the type of pool the owner has. Plants and stones work better with in-ground pools. That way they will be level with the ground, although above ground pools can be landscaped as well. A little innovation has to be exercised in this case however. Some above ground pools are surrounded by decks, where potted trees and flowers might be strategically placed. In-ground pools with decking around them would benefit from the same idea. Other types with cement and stones have the potential to be converted to an elaborate oasis. (more…)

If the future plans for your backyard include an in-ground swimming pool, you might begin by doing your own design. Whether you wind up with just a rough sketch or a detailed plan, the time is well-spent and you will avoid many of those “I shoulda” moments. By giving the pros something tangible to start with, you will also save a great deal of time in dealing with them…less back-and-forth, as the family debates what you really want.

I recommend starting with a trip to the magazine rack at the bookstore. There are several publications that highlight all the latest trends and enough glossy photos to get the family excited. From the get-go however, be realistic about how much money and space you can dedicate to the project. Focus on designs that fit your property, not only in size, but in style and grandeur. The Trevi Fountain is beautiful but it wouldn’t look right in most sub-division backyards. If the architecture of your home is formal, stick with that. If it’s rustic, go with that. I’ve seen many people blow sixty grand on a beautiful pool that just looks out of place. Lastly, remember that there is a lot more to it than just the vessel that holds the water. A great pool is a collection of water effects, decking, furniture, landscaping, and sometimes architectural elements like walls, benches, fireplaces, and even outdoor kitchens. (more…)

Property owners have envied hotels for the extraordinary swimming and bath environments that they could generate, which usually most property owners found near unimaginable to recreate at home. This is changing fast in the last number of years with the coming of low cost and easy to get to resources, equipment and trinkets to perform just that! Currently, many home owners only buy a little in-pool electrical heating unit and may easily generate a warmer, much more comfortable swimming pool setting. (more…)

There are certain situations where both the purchase and continued maintenance of a swimming pool “may” be tax deductible as medical expenses. How do you determine if it will qualify as a medical expense? According to IRS publication 502, medical expenses are the costs of diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, and the costs for treatments affecting any part or function of the body. These include the costs of equipment, supplies, and diagnostic devices needed for these purposes. However, medical care expenses must be primarily to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental defect or illness. (more…)