Pool Enclosures Keep Your Family Safe From Bugs - Screen Repair Is Sometimes Needed

By Dexter Patterson

Go into any subdivision in Florida, and you'll see that everyone that has a swimming pool probably has a pool enclosure or patio covering it. You will also find swarms of bugs everywhere as well since Florida is surrounded by water.

The pools on these homes have these pool enclosures built over top of the pools so the home owners can keep themselves free of the bugs. Ask anyone who has lived in Florida for any length of time and they will tell you how bad the bug problem can be during the summer time.

The screen itself is made up of mostly nylon and a real thin plastic coating that has been applied to it. While the screen itself can get old and brittle over time, the enclosures are made out of aluminum so you don't have to worry about rust. These pool enclosures will actually out last your house as long as a hurricane doesn't come through and knock it down.

Doing a screen repair does require that you know what you are doing. While it seems fairly straight forward due to the spline holding in the material, if your not using the proper tools, the job itself will turn into quite the nightmare.

Many people try going to Home Depot or Lowes to buy the materials to do this themselves, but that is just going to add to the frustration of the home owner, due to the materials and tools being inferior. There are also many different kinds of screens that one can choose.

18x14 is the standard size for the screen hole in the material, some times home owners will choose a material with a smaller hole called 20X20. All the number means is the size of the hole in the screen. There are also options for things like sun screen that is used for shade as well as Florida Glass that is used for privacy.

The life span of the screen material depends on where it is installed. Many times in the top part of the enclosure, you can get 8-10 years out of it before you will need to do another screen repair. The sides of the pool enclosure will last a little longer and go for 10-12 years before needing repair. Animals and weed eaters can also cause damage and be the need of a screen repair as well.

These pool enclosures come in the colors of bronze and white. Most people prefer the bronze color due to the fact that when the screws begin to weather it blends in a little better. The bottom line is without one of these pool enclosures over your pool in Florida, the insects will eat you alive. - 30521

About the Author:

Don't let the condition of your pool enclosure stop you from enjoying what it was created for. If you need a screen repair, just make sure you use the proper materials.

Clean Your Swimming Pool with Chlorine Tablets

By Steve Albiston

Many people nowadays in the US own an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub or spa and there is one fundamental thing that has to be done to ensure a safe swimming experience for the whole family. That thing is to sanitize your pool water to make sure it is free from harmful bacteria and unsightly algae. The best method of cleaning your water is to use the chemical chlorine in the form of easy to use tablets or granules.

Take a moment to consider just how dirty your bath water can get after you've had a nice hot bath. Now take this to the next level and think how dirty it will be after tens or even hundreds of people (pool party anyone?) have used your swimming pool. That's pretty dirty wouldn't you say? This is a reason why you need to buy chlorine tablets for your pool or hot tub.

If you need a method of keeping your pool clean, then there really is no viable alterative available in the US today. Chlorine tablets perform the following functions;

* Removes any harmful bacteria from the water

* Ensure pH level is kept at a safe level

* Ensures algae does not begin to grow round the pool

* Generally keeps the pool and surrounding area clean

You will buy your chlorine tablets in a plastic bucket which is quite handy for storing near your swimming pool or spa. Chlorine has the potential to be very dangerous, so it goes without saying that you should always handle with care. Also remember not to let any small children or family pets get into contact with the tablets.

It is always advisable to carefully read the instructions on the side of the bucket before using the tablets. You will most probably be required to know the size or capacity of your pool, hot tub or jacuzzi. If you don't know this already, perform a simple measurement using a yard stick. This will ensure you use the correct quantity of tablets during the process.

Get into the routine of checking your pool once a week. This way you can be assured that your pH level will remain satisfactory and there will be no algae build up in the surrounding areas.

Last but not least, I know some people have concerns about possible health complications caused by the use of chlorine in swimming pools. It has been cited in the past that it can cause skin rashes, irritation of the eyes and even breathing difficulties. These conditions are rarely caused by chlorine sanitizing of water, and in the rare cases that have occurred, they have not been known to be especially serious. However, if you do have nay doubts at all, or have had trouble in the past, please check with your doctor before proceeding.

Remember - chlorine tablets are there to ensure that you and your family can have safe, germ-free fun in your pool. So please enjoy your leisure time. Happy swimming! - 30521

About the Author:

Mr Steve Albiston authors articles about uses for chlorine tablets. Visit Chlorine Tablets Info now for more information.

Chlorine Tablets Keep Your Swimming Pool Clean

By Steve Albiston

If you are the owner of a swimming pool, jacuzzi hot tub or spa, then it is an absolute necessity that you have a way of sanitizing your pool water and keeping it free from harmful germs and algae. The most popular, economic and trusted way of doing this is to use the chemical chlorine in the form of tablets or granules. Chlorine tablets or granules, when properly used, will dissolve relatively quickly and extremely safely in your pool making it safe for you to swim in.

Take a moment to consider just how dirty your bath water can get after you've had a nice hot bath. Now take this to the next level and think how dirty it will be after tens or even hundreds of people (pool party anyone?) have used your swimming pool. That's pretty dirty wouldn't you say? This is a reason why you need to buy chlorine tablets for your pool or hot tub.

Chlorine is so widely used among pool owners nowadays that it recognized as the standard in swimming pool cleaning. When used effectively, chlorine will do the following for your pool;

* Removes any harmful bacteria from the water

* Keeps pH levels satisfactory

* Stops algae from growing on or around pool

* Generally keeps the pool and surrounding area clean

You will buy your chlorine tablets in a plastic bucket which is quite handy for storing near your swimming pool or spa. Chlorine has the potential to be very dangerous, so it goes without saying that you should always handle with care. Also remember not to let any small children or family pets get into contact with the tablets.

Before using the tablets, please make sure you refer to the manufacturer's instructions, which should be printed on the side of the bucket. If you don't know the dimensions of your pool already, it is advised that you measure it using a yard stick so that you can determine the pool capacity in order that you use the correct number of tablets.

It's a good idea to designate one day of the week as pool checking day. Once you're into a routine, you can be assured of preventing algae growth as well as keeping you pH levels correct.

To conclude, one final point concerns the issues that have befell some swimmers relating to health issues experienced after swimming in chlorine disinfected pools. Conditions noted have been skin rashes, irritable eyes and difficulty with breathing. These cases are very rare, however, if you have nay concerns at all, or have been troubled in the past from swimming in public pools, it is advisable to speak to your doctor. Better safe than sorry.

Most importantly, please remember that chlorine tablets are designed so that you can enjoy swimming or bathing in a safe and bacteria free environment. The benefits far outweigh the potential risks. So please enjoy your swim. - 30521

About the Author:

Mr Steve Albiston authors articles about uses for chlorine tablets. Visit Chlorine Tablets Info now for more information.

Reasons To Love The New Saltwater Swimming Pools

By Adam Beaty

The long used method of sanitizing swimming pools has been to use chlorine. Chlorine is an effective germicide and algaecide. There are some problems, however, associated with chlorine pools. This has lead to the introduction of saltwater pools. Saltwater swimming pools have many advantages to offer including a lower maintenance cost and reduction in the amount of chemicals that are used. The only chemical used is salt, and these pools offer many advantages.

Most people find that saltwater pools are much more comfortable than traditional chlorine pools. The saltwater pool is not as harsh as a traditional chlorine pool is. The pools help to avoid red eyes, discolored hair and itchy skin associated with a chlorine pool. You will not have the drying of chlorine, even if you swim every day.

There are fewer chemicals required for saltwater pools than with chlorine pools. You do not have to buy, store or handle the toxic chemicals on a regular basis. Saltwater pools are better for the environment and do not have the strong chlorine smell of most swimming pools. The only chemical that must be bought is table salt.

Saltwater pools have the distinction of being almost self-cleaning. The require little maintenance yet keep the chemical level constant for the entire swimming season. You will not have to constantly be checking the pH level or chlorine content with these pools. The salt generator is filled once each season and then left alone. As a bonus, there is never a need to add anything to get rid of algae, as it just does not grow in a salt pool.

Chlorine pools can cause many medical problems, including infertility or reduced fertility, problems with the immune system, and even cancer. Some of the chemicals created when the chlorine reacts with ammonia from the human body can make emphysema and asthma worse. Since the chlorine level is always constant in the saltwater pool, these chemicals are never formed.

Saltwater pools are less expensive overall to operate. It only costs half as much to operate a saltwater pool when compared to a chlorine pool.

You will find a few disadvantages to a saltwater pool. You should research these more before your final decision.

The salt can combine with calcium and form scaling on the surface of the pool. Salt is also highly corrosive. Anything metal in the area of the pool may rust, including handrails, furniture and even the pool itself. Finally, for the chlorine generator to work correctly, you must run the pump for the pool at all times. This could increase the cost of your electric bill.

When the disadvantages are weighed against the advantages, most people find that the salt water system is a better choice. The owners do not have to buy the dangerous chemicals, only salt. Pools need less maintenance than other pools. While the pools are more expensive in the beginning, there are significant savings in the operating costs, which can quickly repay any additional costs. Anyone who is considering buying a new swimming pool should consider the saltwater swimming pool. - 30521

About the Author:

Recently, saltwater Swimming Pools have increased immensely in popularity. Saltwater Swimming Pools offer numerous benefits such as lower cost of maintenance as well as Swimming Pool Contractors expenses and use of dangerous chemicals

Swimming Pools for Beginners

By Santonia Levine

The decision of whether or not to get a swimming pool can be a bit confusing. Most people would like to own one, but they don't know where to start. Looking at the basics of the project can simplify it a bit.

There is a lot to think about when you are getting a pool. One of the most basic considerations is the type of pool you want to buy. Your two most popular options will be above ground swimming pools and in-ground swimming pools.

For many people, the cost of the pool will be their main consideration. Above ground swimming pools might be their best choice. The can usually be purchased for well under five thousand dollars on sale.

A much more involved project is the in-ground swimming pool. These are beautiful additions to one's property but they are rather expensive. The cost for these pools can reach into the tens of thousands of dollars.

Before making any decision regarding a pool, you must assess your property. You need to take the size of your yard into account. The swimming pool you choose should not completely fill the area.

Installing an in-ground swimming pool is a much more difficult project than setting up an above ground model. You should not attempt either installation without qualified people on hand.

Both types of pools will need to have electricity run to them to run their filtering systems. This can be an additional expense of several hundred or thousands of dollars. Do not try to take shortcuts on this part of the project, as it could be quite dangerous to do so.

Excavation of the pool area must also be considered and completed by a professional. In-ground pools require extensive digging. Above ground pool areas will need to be made level. - 30521

About the Author:

Santonia Levine writes about pools and pool tips

How To Get The Money For A Dream Pool.

By Melvin Moore

More and more countries are being added to the list of countries that Americans should avoid traveling to. Combine that factor with the current economy and you have a recipe for a "stay-cation" rather than an expensive trip to an exotic location. However, what is a stay-cation without a swimming pool. More and more people are opting to stay close to home, and as a result are looking to make their homes more comfortable and appealing. So, even with the worries about money and the stock market crash there are many ways to obtain pool financing.

However, before you begin looking at different financing options it is best to decide on your pool builder. This is a process in and of itself which we won't go into here. Once you have decided on a builder you will have a good idea of the amount of money you'll need. Builders will often be able to give you advice concerning which option for financing your pool is best in the current market, and some may offer financing themselves. However, while the builders advice and expertize may be invaluable be sure to do your own research and make the decision that is best for you financially. Don't be pressured into a financing option based on a someone else's opinion.

When buying or building a new house many people will tie the cost of the pool in with the cost of the mortgage. While this has the easy benefit, there are several pitfalls as well. For one, you will be paying off your pool for as long as you pay off your house, which could be 30 years. This could be very expensive with the added interest. You also may be required to use your house builder's list of pool contracters. So this may not be the best pool financing option.

Another scenario involves adding a pool to your current home. This is a more common scenario. In this case there are typically two financing options - both have their bonuses and pitfalls. The first is a second mortgage. The second is a line of credit based on the equity you have in your home. The line of credit typically has a lower interest rate, but the mortgage interest is compounded annually instead of monthly. The interest on a line of credit is compounded monthly. Therefore it will really depend on your individual financial situation to decide which of these options is right for you - and if you have little or no equity in your home the question is moot.

There are some other considerations when looking into potential lenders for your pool financing. For one, it is wise to choose a lender that is familiar with pool financing. This should enable them to give you a decision in a matter of days instead of weeks, moving the process along considerably. Also, some people attempt to pay the pool builder directly with a credit card. Most reputable pool companies will not accept this as a form of payment for many reasons. For one, it often signifies their inability to get other financing.

Line of credit, second mortgage, commercial bank, small town bank, financing through the builder, there are many options for pool financing. If you are wise with your money you will be able to make the decision that's right for you and make every day a vacation at your house. - 30521

About the Author:

Melvin Moore is a finance and swimming pool journalist who writes about swimming pool financing

A Complete One-Stop Shop to Buy My Pool Supplies

By Lenore Portalatin

Fine, I admit it. With the pool set up, we'll be the ones inviting people to come to our house rather than us looking for invites. More importantly we are the house all the kids want to come to. That's important to us. I'm not exactly a wealthy person.

I have a really nice house with an in ground pool; the reason I got a good deal out of it was because the couple selling the place was in the middle of a nasty divorce. That's the truth. You can tell me off all you want but I'm really glad we got this house. My family need a bigger place and this house fits the criteria to a T. Also, did I say it has an in ground pool? Oh, I did? Right, well the reason I mentioned it again is because it has really been a huge blessing to me and the rest of our family and friends as you can well imagine.

Having the pool has been an enormous blessing but a huge challenge at the same time. Since we moved in, we've been on a steep learning curve. It was that time of the year when the pool supplies have to dragged out and the pool has to be opened; it was a bad timing for us because we were short of cash since the move. We couldn't afford to hire a professional pool opening person so we just "winged" it. We did pretty well. I had a superficial comprehension of pool chemicals and PH levels and piping and so on. I have a firm grasp on how swimming pool filters, pool pumps and general pool equipment work so we were in a good position.

When I went to the local equipment place to get some advice on buying pool supplies, that's the time I started having problems. You really have to check them out today especially if you need assistance on swimming pool equipment or any backyard help. All these people want was to sell swimming pool equipment to me and nothing more. I felt ripped off every time I go to that place. They can put a huge dent on your wallet by making it look as though buying swimming pool accessories is the most difficult thing to do on earth. I fell for their game in the past but I've learned my lesson well. I know that we're only talking about water here but safety is still an issue. It's mostly no-brainer. I stumbled upon a website called 1800pools.com and now I don't have to worry about the proper pools supplies.

Todd and his company believe that you and I are entitled to have an exciting backyard experience filled with fun. - 30521

About the Author:

all you need for your pool is here in one area. Visit us today to know all the pool supplies you are hoping for.

Above Ground Pools or Above Ground Swimming Pools For Summer Fun

By Moe Kittaneh

When summer arrives and the heat is on, a great way to relax and stay cool is with above ground pools.

Above ground pools are a much less expensive option than are in ground pools. There is no hole to dig and the materials that are used to make the pool are much less expensive. There are many types of above ground pools available today.

No matter which type of above ground pool you choose, you will need a level spot for installation. Any stones or debris should be removed from the spot before installation. A layer of sand will help to keep the pool level and flat on the bottom. If you are installing a metal wall above ground pool, you will need extra sand to build a cove around the inside of the lower pool wall. This keeps the liner from sliding under the metal wall and becoming damaged.

The easiest pool to setup has an inflatable ring around the top of the pool. Once it is inflated, water is added into the pool until it is filled. The ring keeps the pool standing up. These pools are only available in limited sizes.

The metal sided above ground pool is the oldest of above ground pools. These pools can last for many seasons if treated properly. A plastic liner inside the metal walls keeps the water inside the pool. These pools are available in either round or oval shapes and can be very large.

In recent years a pool has been developed that uses the heavier liner of the inflatable ring pool with PVC pipe for a support. This pool does away with the time of installation of a metal pool but has a much stronger wall support than the inflatable ring pool. These pools are also available in very large sizes.

Above ground pools need a filtering system to keep the water clear. Many pool owners find that a sand filter system is much more effective and economical than the paper filter systems that come with many less expensive pools.

For many years, chlorine was the chemical associated with swimming pools. Chlorine is a very volatile chemical and required constant replacement. Newer systems use table salt to keep the pool free of algae and germs. Table salt, sodium chloride, is a very stable chemical and pools require much less than they did with chlorine. Salt filters are an inexpensive addition to help you enjoy your above ground pool even more. - 30521

About the Author:

A variety of above ground pools, above ground swimming pools and plenty of pool liners to choose from.

Choosing the Right Automatic Pool Cleaner

By Clint Walker

If you're in the market for a swimming pool cleaner, all the options may seem confusing . In order to choose the best automatic pool cleaner for your needs you should have an understanding of how each cleaner operates.Although there are many different brands on the market, there are only three different types of pool cleaners.

Automatic Pool Cleaners- suction side

The suction side automatic pool cleaner operates off the suction of the swimming pool pump. The cleaner moves along the bottom of the pool sucking trash and debris through a hose attached to the skimmer of your swimming pool. This type of cleaner does an excellent job of removing small debris as every thing it takes in is filtered through the pool filtration system.

The suction type pool cleaner will require more routine filter cleaning in order for it to remain efficient. As your filter becomes contaminated from debris the cleaner is picking up, less water flow is available for cleaning the pool.

Some of the disadvantages to this type cleaner are the pool filter may need to be serviced more frequently because all the trash removed from the pool is captured by the filter. the cleaner also losses efficiency as the filter becomes contaminated.

Automatic Pool Cleaners- Pressure Side

Automatic pool cleaners that operate off the pressure side of the swimming pool filtration system still use the pool pump to drive them. As water from the pump is forced up through the cleaner a vacuum is created under the cleaner. this water flow forces trash into a bag on top of the pool cleaner.

Some of the advantages of a pressure side pool cleaner are it is capable of picking up relatively large debris such as leaves and it stores the debris in a bag on board instead of in the swimming poo filter.

Cons of a pressure side cleaner: Small debris can pass through bag and re enter the pool. (note) some pressure side cleaners have sand and silt bags available to aid in removal of small debris, use of this bag greatly diminishes the cleaners ability to pick up larger trash.For pressure side cleaners using a booster pump there is added costs in utilities.

Robotic Pool Cleaners

If you're looking for a self contained cleaning system that doesn't rely on the pools filtration system the robotic cleaner is the way to go. It is powered from household current and has an on board computer to help make it very efficient at cleaning the swimming pool.

This type cleaner may not be the best choice if you need to remove huge amounts of large debris routinely. The robotic cleaner is highly efficient at removing small debris and scrubbing the pool.

This is the most expensive type pool cleaner to purchase. - 30521

About the Author:

James Fisher has been building swimming pools in S.C. since 1998. Today he enjoys writing informative articles to help homeowners better understand proper pool maintenance. We hope this article on swimming pool cleaners will assist you in making a wise decision on your choice of swimming pool equipment.

Guide for Automatic Pool Cleaners

By Clint Walker

Choosing an automatic swimming pool cleaner can be a tough decision. You can be better prepared to make the right choice if you understand how each type of pool cleaner works.To best decide which type cleaner will work in your situation, let's discuss the capabilities of each type.

Automatic Suction Side Pool Cleaners

The suction side automatic pool cleaner operates off the suction of the swimming pool pump. The cleaner moves along the bottom of the pool sucking trash and debris through a hose attached to the skimmer of your swimming pool. This type of cleaner does an excellent job of removing small debris as every thing it takes in is filtered through the pool filtration system.

Pros of a suction side pool cleaner: It will remove small debris such as sand and silt effectively.Since it operates off the pool filtration suction it will help circulate the pool water more effectively.

This type cleaner is probably not the best choice if you have large debris such as leaves and twigs entering the pool frequently. This is the best cleaner choice if you mainly have sand and silt debris that needs to be cleaned from the pool.

Automatic Pool Cleaners- Pressure Side

The pressure side automatic pool cleaner also operates off the swimming pool filtration system but on the pressure side. This type cleaner has a water driven propulsion system and some are capable of cleaning the pool walls as well as the floor. The pressure side cleaner has a debris bag attached to the cleaner for trash containment.

Pros of a pressure side pool cleaner: Has own containment bag. Doesn't contribute to filtration system becoming contaminated. Will remove larger debris than suction side cleaners. Booster pump models will pick up even larger trash effectively and even remove small rocks and pebbles.

Cons of a pressure side cleaner: Small debris can pass through bag and re enter the pool. (note) some pressure side cleaners have sand and silt bags available to aid in removal of small debris, use of this bag greatly diminishes the cleaners ability to pick up larger trash.For pressure side cleaners using a booster pump there is added costs in utilities.

Robotic Pool Cleaners

Robotic pool cleaners have electric motors inside them to drive the cleaner and vacuum up debris. An on board computer "learns" the shape of the swimming pool to maximize the robotic cleaners efficiency.

Pros of a robotic pool cleaner: It scrubs the walls and floor of the pool. Has it's own motors so it doesn't add to the wear of the pool filtration system. It has it's own containment system so it doesn't contribute to the filter contamination.

Cons of a robotic pool cleaner: Cost, they are the most expensive type of automatic pool cleaner. Expensive to repair. - 30521

About the Author:

Clint Walker has been a swimming pool builder in S.C. since 1998. Today he enjoys writing informative articles to help homeowners better understand proper pool maintenance. We hope this article on automatic pool cleaners will assist you in making a wise decision on your choice of pool equipment.

Know How To Price A Swimming Pool?

By Nina Adelson

Whether you're a new home owner or you've been in your existing home for some time, when you make the decision to install a pool, you may not know how to price a swimming pool. This article is meant to give you the basic information that you need to know in order to make a safe assessment of the price of getting a pool at your home.

First things first. What kind of pool are you looking for? As silly as it may sound, not everyone knows what they are looking for. Are you looking for an above ground or in ground pool? Chances are, if you're pricing a pool, you'll be getting an in ground swimming pool. That is a good place to start.

When pricing a swimming pool, you need to consider what size of a pool you want to have built. This includes circumference and depth of the pool. This will dictate the shape of the pool, as well. Decide on something that you can live with, for quite some time.

For instance, if you've got young children, you may at first be inclined to get a shallow pool. Just don't forget that as your kids grow, they'll need a deeper pool. It's easier to take precautions now to safeguard them from the deep water than it is to dig up and rebuild a pool later.

Figure out what you can afford and find out who can give you the most for your money. Do you live in a warm climate? If you do, you'll be using the pool more than up North where pools are usually used for three months out of the year and need to be covered the rest of the year. You need to decide whether or not you need to buy a pool cover and add that in to the price.

If you live somewhere that your pool will be open year around, you need to consider whether or not you're going to put a covered patio over the pool. In many states, Florida in particular, lanais are built over and around the pool, as a pool cage, protecting your pool from the environment and giving your family a bug free place to enjoy the water.

If you're having a pool enclosure built, you should add this cost in to the price. Either way, you need to have a security fence put up to protect your kids and animals from the dangers of being alone near the water. All of these things add to how to price a swimming pool. - 30521

About the Author:

Considering a pool but worried about those high InGround Pool Prices? Figuring out the real Swimming Pool Cost is a must before starting such a costly project. Visit us at www.ingroundpoolprices.com for more tips on pricing your inground pool.