Read on for amazing outdoor fire pit ideas! Why Should You Install a Fire Pit? Imagine sitting around a fire pit with friends and family, watching the flickering flames, roasting marshmallows and having amazing conversation. Outdoor fire pits create warmth, enhance connection and provides year-round backyard use in many areas of the U.S. Whether you're adding a fire pit next to the pool or designing it as the focal point of your backyard, you'll find the addition of a fire feature totally changes your outdoor experience. Firepit Design Ideas Once you decide to install an outdoor fire pit in y ..read more

Your swimming pool liner is one of the most important elements in your pool. Liners typically last many seasons - but they are not invulnerable. Improper treatment will dramatically shorten the lifespan of your liner, leading to frequent replacements, more pool owner headaches, and significantly higher maintenance costs over time. Fortunately, we have some super easy tips that will help you extend the life of your pool liner, repair your pool liner, and reduce the harmful fading that can occur on your pool liner. By practicing proper maintenance and upkeep, your liner can last upwards of 20 y ..read more

Many above ground pool owners wonder if they should build a deck for their above ground pool. It’s not necessary since you can enjoy your above ground pool from the perimeter. However, above ground pool decks mean more room to lounge and relax around the pool while keeping a watchful eye on swimmers. Additionally, including a deck gives your backyard a finished look and provides safe walkways for guests. What kind of deck should I build for an above ground pool? When it comes to building a deck for your above ground pool, it’s important to decide what style of deck you’d like. The style of de ..read more

Comparing Variable Speed Pool Pumps vs Single Speed No matter what size pool you have, variable-speed pumps can help you save energy and save money over single-speed pumps. Even if you keep your single pump running for about 4 to 5 hours a day, then turn it off, the savings don’t compare. A variable pump’s saving potential and energy conservation far outweigh the money you save by turning off your single-speed pump. The Department of Energy certainly thinks so too: Its new regulations require that new or replaced pumps in most pools be variable speed. And perhaps more importantly, even with a ..read more

Treading Water Treading water should be mastered before moving on to learning swim strokes. Learning how to tread water is one of the most important parts of swimming, helping prevent accidents and helping people keep afloat. You can use kickboards to help you tread water and learn swim strokes. Treading water is the motion of your arms and legs moving at the same time but in an efficient method. Your right arm should push out and away from your body and in a clockwise motion pull back to the chest. Your left arm should be in sync and perform the same motion but in a counter-clockwise directio ..read more

Modern Pool Finishes Gunite pools give you the most flexibility with the appearance of your pool. Generally, pool plaster tends to erode over time. This causes the pool surface to cut, scrape, and scratch the skin. A pool plaster finish typically lasts between 5 and IO years. This figure is all based on proper water chemistry and maintenance. For pool owners that want or need to remodel their plaster, there are new types of pool finishes that offer new looks and extended life. Aggregate swimming pool finishes have been growing in popularity over the last few decades. Today, they have taken the ..read more

It’s also the most aggressive form of swimming pool algae, and it’s the most difficult form of algae to get rid of. Simply shocking or adding algaecide to your swimming pool will not kill it. There are two reasons black algae is so challenging: First, it features deep roots that keep it firmly embedded in your pool surfaces. Second, it has a natural, protective layer that makes it hard for chemicals to get through. But if you see the first signs of black algae on your pool walls, don’t despair: Black algae might be difficult to treat, but it’s not impossible. With the right pool care routine ..read more

Sail Shade The easiest and most budget-friendly shade to install, a sail shade is a triangular piece of weather-resistant, UV-protectant fabric that hangs between three points on your patio. Depending on your patio layout, you can anchor it to your house and two posts. The shade allows for flexibility, and you can even move it between several locations. Sail shades reduce heat by up to 30%, while the breathable fabric allows breezes to pass through and prevents rain from accumulating on the shade. Wood Pergola A long-lasting architectural feature that often provides contrasting interest ..read more

What You'll Need: Laptop or DVD player Projector Your favorite movie! Projector Screen or large wall that functions as a backdrop Speakers Table or platform to sit it on Pool Floats or other comfortable seating Putting it all together: First things first, you'll need a flat surface to project your movie onto. A large, neutral stucco wall will do just fine if you don't have a projector screen. Another convenient solution is to hang and secure a white sheet so it appears flat and doesn't flap around in the wind. Make sure that your screen is high enough for your guests to be able to see it wit ..read more

Pool Heater Repair: DIY or Find Pool Pump Repair Near Me? You just jumped into your pool for an early morning swim on a brisk morning – only to emerge gasping and shivering because you plunged into the icy water. This can only mean one thing: Your pool heater is on the fritz. Your pool heater is an appliance designed to be out in the elements. But like all things electrical or mechanical, it may break down or need a bit of maintenance to keep it running properly. Even if you’re handy around appliances, it might be best to work with a pool repair professional to handle this repair – it can be c ..read more