DIY Tips
Something that is sure to bring a smile to everyone who has ever owned a pool, Olympic organisers finally admitted after a week of public speculation (and humiliation), that they used the wrong chemicals in the diving and water polo pools. What they initially blamed on a “sudden change in alkalinity” was something that occasionally stumps even the most seasoned pool professional: water chemistry.
Picture an idyllic scene… Lying in calm shallow blue water warmed by the sun. It slopes gently away towards a depth that’s just right for swimming. That’s why so many of us head to tropical isles or exotic resorts for holidays. But with a little thought, it’s possible to enjoy this coastal luxury every day of the year. It’s as simple as building a beach entry pool.
Owning a spa is all about luxurious relaxation in your own backyard. But just because they take up less space than a pool and don't require the same investment in terms of upkeep, doesn't mean you can ignore them altogether. Fortunately, there's a simple five step regime to keep your spa ready for fun at a moment's notice.
Landscaping is an integral part of any swimming pool project and should be considered as part of the design process, not as a mere afterthought. “It is false economy not to engage professional design assistance for at least an initial consultation to set you in the right direction for your project,” says multi award-winning pool and landscape designer John Storch, founder of A Total Concept.
It's the time of year when we change the bed sheets from cool cotton to cozy flannelette, ready for the cold and storms of winter. It's also time to "change the sheets" on your pool.
The ancient Romans had some serious luxury available when they felt like a dip in the baths. Think vast columns and arches with marble and mosaics tile images. But even they might be inclined to envy the gorgeous array of tiles available to the average modern pool owner.
Pools these days are so much more than a place to cool off. They're an extension of the home and the owner's personality. Not only that, they can turn an everyday object into a work of art. So it's hardly surprising that water features are as much a part of modern pool design as shape, colour and decking.
Just because the air temperature might be cooling down, it doesn’t mean you should stop enjoying your pool. The ideal temperature for leisure swimming is between 25 and 26 degrees Celsius, but this temperature is rarely achieved naturally. For most of the swimming season, the temperature is usually about 18 to 20 degrees, with most of the warmth gained during the day then lost overnight.