Tag Archives: Pool

Pool Landscaping 101

January 12, 2025   Matt

Pool Landscaping 101

There are three things to think about when you are planning pool landscaping. It has to offer privacy and safety for those who are there as well as beautify the surroundings.

This can be done by putting plants around the swimming pool because it helps make the pool blend in with the environment. If the plants are tall enough, these are able to block “peeping Toms” from watching whoever is at the pool.

When choosing plants, it is best to select those that require low maintenance so that you don’t have to fish the leaves or petals that are blown into the water. One good option is to use a broadleaf evergreen such as a holly.

Since you want people to relax when they are by the pool, you can also use tropical looking plants like the aspidistra, aucuba, banana tree, caladiums, elephant ears, cyperus, Fatsia japonica and palms.

You must never make the mistake of putting plants with thorns near the pool. It could also injure someone or tear off the fabric of their clothes, swimsuits or towels.

Instead of planting flowers in the grass, you can also do so by putting them in containers. The advantage of doing is that you can move these indoors when it is too cold especially during the winter and then bring them back the following spring.

You should avoid planting fruit trees by the pool because they could dirty the surrounding area and also attract bees. Surely, you do not want any of your guests to get stung. Another reason is that their roots will soon damage the tiles o f your swimming pool.

Homeowners should also avoid evergreens like oaks and pines because they don’t only drop leaves but also acorns, leaves and needles.

But don’t all trees shed their leaves? They all do but there are those that drop their leaves for a short period of time like the forsythia and maples.

Safety for those in the pool can be done by putting up a fence. If the metal bars are an eye sore, grow vines around them. If you have guests that will be swimming in the evening, make sure there are lights around the perimeter and in the water.

Another safety that you can be around the pool is a patio because it has a non-slip surface for which people can walk on even if they have just come out of the pool. You can also create the same effect by using bricks as long as the surface is rough.

So guests do not enter the house with their feet still wet, it will be a good idea to have a closed gazebo nearby so they can change and at the same time relax in the shade. Those who want to sunbathe can sit on a lounge chair or on an Adirondack chair.

Reading about this should already teach you a few do’s and don’ts with regards to pool landscaping. For those who want more information, it is best to read some books, do some research online, talk to someone at the local nursery and get advice from a professional.

All of this input will ensure that your swimming pool will look good all year round so your guests may drop by anytime and take a plunge.

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Dangers Of Chlorine In Showers, Pool, And Cleaning Products-The Facts Revealed

August 11, 2024   Matt

Dangers Of Chlorine In Showers, Pool, And Cleaning Products-The Facts Revealed

Today’s world is filled with problems and worries. A
lot of people are already health conscious but somehow
they are still overlooking some things. Are you
already aware that tap water and cleaning products
contain a certain element that can be very dangerous
to an individual’s health? That element is chlorine.
If you want to find out more about the possible
dangers of chlorine in showers, pools, and cleaning
products, read on and get the important facts.

• Skin Irritant – you can easily tell when there’s
chemical in the water, whether you’re taking a shower
or when you’re swimming in the pool. You will suddenly
feel the stinging and you have a blurry vision. And of
course, how can you ignore the smell? Water with
chlorine is not that good, especially to people.
Studies have proven that chlorinated water can cause
skin irritations, specifically eczema.

Aside from eczema, individuals with seborrhea,
psoriasis, and acne can experience worsening of their
conditions. Chlorinated water destroys the vitamin E
and polyunsaturated fatty acids found in the body. It
generates toxins which create free radicals. There is
a remedy to these skim irritations. Doctors usually
recommend patients to take supplements which contain
vitamin E, flaxseed oil, and fatty acids.

• When chlorine combines with other water compounds,
trihalomethanes is produced. These are carcinogens
which don’t degrade and so the body’s fatty tissues
store them. This may not sound alarming but what if
the carcinogens were stored in the fatty tissues of
your breast? The chemicals are also called as
organochlorides. These can also be stored in semen and
blood which can cause DNA mutations that suppress the
function of the immune system. Hence, cell growth can
be interfered.

• There are still other health concerns that you need
to look into. Children who are always exposed to
chlorine in pools will experience aggravated asthma.
As mentioned earlier, carcinogens can be stored in the
body and so you will be more prone to cancer. Breast
and bladder cancer are just some of the possible
illnesses that you can get. Some individuals were also
noted to get malignant melanoma.

At present, studies are being conducted to establish
the connection of chlorinated water and certain
household products to congenital cardiac
abnormalities.

• Competitive swimmers are able to absorb a large
amount of chlorine which go directly to the
bloodstream, even on their training sessions.

• Children are able to inhale more toxins as compared
to adults. If you don’t want your kids to suffer from
the dangers of chlorine, make sure that you use water
filters.

• Try to check the chlorine content of pools. If there
is a very high content of chlorine, the dental enamel
can be eroded because of the high acid levels.

• Toxin is greatly absorbed though your skin as
compared to breathing. So whenever you take a bath or
swim in the pool, or when you’re cleaning the house
using household cleaners, your body can absorb
chlorine.

Ensure that your pool is not over chlorinated and try
to limit your bath time. While you’re shopping for
chlorine alternatives for household cleansers, pool or
shower filters, make sure that you get the best
quality products. That way, you can protect yourself
and your loved ones from the dangers of chlorine in
showers, pools, and cleaning products. It helps to
know some facts so that you will know what to do,
right?

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Swimming Pool – The Various Types

July 17, 2023   Matt

Swimming Pool – The Various Types

Swimming pools are artificially prepared water body containing chlorine to control bacteria. A swimming pool can come in various size and shape. The water inside the swimming pool is pumped from the pool and chemically treated, before sending it back to the pool. The swimming pool requires certain components like a basin, motorized pump, water filter, chemical feeder, drains, returns, and proper plastic plumbing.

There are various types of swimming pools depending on the construction of the basin. It is easy and economical to build the Above-ground pools with the help of prefabricated kits. Molded fiberglass-reinforced plastic, in the shape of a basin, is used to build the Fiberglass pools. A Vinyl-lined in-ground swimming pool is cheaper than the other in-ground designs, but the liner has to be replaced every ten years. The durable Gunite swimming pools with tile or fiberglass finish are the most popular. The Poured-concrete swimming pools are harder than the Gunite pools.

The public swimming pools include an indoor heated pool, an outdoor saltwater pool, children’s and toddler’s pool. Some of the public swimming pools have exciting features like an artificial waterfalls, fountains, splash pads, isolated bars, and wave machines. There are various lockers resent for storing clothing and other belongings.

The exercise swimming pools, also called swim spas, have various modes of resistance swimming. Swimming helps to tone the muscles, improve strength and flexibility, increase blood circulation, control body weight and enhance body contours. Various kinds of water exercises that can be done in a swimming pool are water walking, water jogging, water toning, water therapy, water aerobics, and water yoga.

It is extremely important to keep the swimming pool clean of pathogens and maintain a perfect chemical balance. A wrong chemical balance can cause damage to the pool, and can irritate the eyes and skin. Thus it is essential to disinfect the water in the swimming pool by adding chlorine, and other bromine compounds. Purifying the water of the swimming pool is essential to maintain proper health and hygiene.

For safety measures, avoid swimming for an hour after heavy meals. Eating heavy food and then going for a swim in the swimming pool or any other water body can be risky. Chances of developing cramps are higher, thus swimming after meals should be avoided. A swimming pool provides not only recreation and fun, but also keeps us fit and healthy.

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The Hidden Dangers Of Chlorine In Showers, Pool, And Cleaning Products

March 30, 2023   Matt

The Hidden Dangers Of Chlorine In Showers, Pool, And Cleaning Products

According to AAPCC or the American Association of
Poison Control Centers, there have been a lot of
recorded instances wherein health problems were
primarily caused by the presence of chlorine in
cleaning agents or products. Aside from that, water
also contains chlorine which can be harmful to one’s
health. In both instances, chlorine was mentioned.
This is the right time to finally discover the hidden
dangers of chlorine in showers, pool, and cleaning
products.

To start with, take a look at the chlorine in showers
and pools. Many years ago, the element (chlorine) was
used as a chemical warfare, particularly in the Second
World War. By the end of the war, cheap chemicals were
abundant. Back then, people found out about its great
benefits. They used the element to disinfect water
supply and mixed it with other products as well.
However, the studies today revealed that chlorine can
cause breast cancer. Scientists handle the element
with extreme care and they even use proper
ventilation, facemasks, and protective gloves in the
process.

Despite the harmful effects of chlorine, most of
today’s cleaning agents as well as dishwasher
detergents contain chlorine. Enhanced effects can be
seen when you’re taking a shower because the fumes are
heated or when you’re spending a relaxing moment in
the Jacuzzi. Swimming pools also contain chlorine
because it disinfects the pool and rids it of certain
bacteria. Drinking water has chlorine as well. Studies
revealed that bathing lets the body absorb more
chlorine than simply drinking the water because the
element immediately enters the bloodstream.

Now, focus more on the cleaning products that you’re
using at homes. Check out the dishwasher detergent. It
contains dry chlorine and it can cause poison
especially if the dishes are not washed properly.
Residues can pile up on the dishes and it can even mix
with your hot food.

The laundry products, toilet cleaners, oven cleaner,
bleach, furniture polish, and upholstery shampoo all
contain harmful chemicals. You have to ensure that
these things are kept in a secured place where the
children can’t reach to avoid poisoning or other
accidents like fire. The National Research Council
also announced that the products which contain
chemicals don’t give out toxic information. Tests have
been conducted and twenty percent of these chemicals
create acute effects and ten percent give chronic,
mutagenic or reproductive effects.

If you want to protect yourself and your family
against the harmful hidden dangers of chlorine and
other chemicals, you have to educate yourself. Gather
as many information as possible and look for safer
options or alternative products. You can also cut down
the use of chlorine in your pool and you can also
purchase natural cleaning products. Whenever there is
a spill or stain, clean it immediately.

Food wastes should be thrown away promptly. Check the
humidity in your home and try to maintain at 30 to
50%. Entrances should have mats so that few dirt can
enter the house. When you’ve purchased a certain
product with chlorine, be sure to follow the
manufacturer instructions and use only the recommended
quantity. You must always read labels carefully and
follow precautionary measures.

Now that you know the hidden dangers of chlorine in
showers, pools, and cleaning products, you should be
extra careful. By simply following some preventive
measures, you can take care of your health.

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Swimming Pool Landscaping

November 09, 2021   Matt

Swimming Pool Landscaping

Landscaping around your pool can be a lot of fun. Picking out just the right plants that you love and that will complement your pool really can be very exciting. But when choosing your pool landscaping, it’s important not to just be thinking about how the landscaping will look but also to think about what will ensure the safety of the swimmers and not be too hard for pool maintenance. Below are some simple steps to help you decide on some great pool landscaping.

A pool with plants and flowers planted all along its side can be very attractive. But remember that container plants or potted plants are easier to maintain, replace and rearrange. Another advantage is for plants that are sensitive to frost. These plants can be brought in for the winter and be moved outdoors again the next spring. And container plants really are beautiful as well.

To help with pool maintenance and safety, don’t plant flowers, plants, or shrubs that will hang over the pool. These are bound to drop something into the water whether it be pollen, stems, or petals. Also move the plants that tend to have a lot of droppings at least eight feet from the pool. Along these same lines, it’s wise to choose plants and shrubs that drop their leaves in a short period so you only have to do one cleanup.

Plants that have shorter leaves tend to be less likely to have their droppings blown away by the wind and blown right into the pool. Also avoid evergreens such as live oaks and pines. They may seem like a good choice but they drop needles, pine cones, flowers, and acorns for months.

Also make sure to take your privacy into consideration and set up a fence or a large trellis to block the view of passer-bys or your neighbor’s window.

And lastly, while you are deciding on your pool landscaping, talk to your local nursery about plants that tend to do well in your climate and soil. Be sure to tell that you are landscaping around a pool and ask how far away the plants should be. They are the professionals and should be able to offer some very good advice. Landscaping your pool doesn’t have to be a chore. In actuality, it should add to the beauty of your pool and make it that much more enjoyable!

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How and Why You Should Buy Pool Safety Equipment

October 30, 2021   Matt

How and Why You Should Buy Pool Safety Equipment

Are you interested in installing an aboveground or inground pool in your yard? If so, now is the time to familiarize yourself with pool safety. Certain pool safety steps, such as the installation of a pool fence, are not only recommended, but often required by law.

As previously stated, law may require some pool safety steps. The most common being the installation of a pool fence. This fence typically needs to be at least four feet high, fully surrounding the pool, and have a lock or latch. In recent years, some states have started mandating the use of a pool alarm.

Another one of the many reasons why you and all other homeowner should look into pools safety equipment is because it can reduce your liability. In the event of a pool accident, you may be held liable if neglect is found. Neglect may involve not taking steps to make sure that your pool is safe for young children. Liability can be risky and costly.

Perhaps, the greatest reason why you should take pool safety steps is because those steps can help to keep others safe. If you are a parent or if you have small children in your home, such as grandchildren, it is important to keep your pool safe. This involves making it difficult to access. The good news is that there are a number of tools and equipment pieces on the market today that can help you do so.

As previously stated, pool fences are often required by law. You can easily determine so by contacting your town, village, city, or county government officials. Although many fences must have a lock and be at least four feet high, you should have the freedom to choose your own style and design. Pool owners, like yourself, often opt for aluminum, chain-linked, wrought iron, and mesh fences.

In terms of pool alarms, they are usually optional, but many states are now starting to require them in pools with depths of two feet of water or more. Pool alarms are considered a must have, especially for inground pools. This is because the alarm will sound when a disturbance occurs in the water, such as when someone falls in. Since most drowning accidents occur when no one is in the pool, all parents should outfit their pools with an alarm.

Pool safety covers are another piece of equipment that comes highly rated and recommended. Most safety covers are designed for inground swimming pools, as they tend to pose the most danger. In terms of safety and ease, automatic vinyl pool covers are recommended. A simple turn of the key and your swimming pool can be protected each and everyday, not just during the winter months.

Now that you know what type of pool safety steps can be taken, you may be curious as to how you find and buy these items. You should have a number of different buying options. All swimming pool accessories, including safety equipment, can be found available for sale online. As for local shopping, specialty pool stores, home improvement stores, and department stores should be visited.

As an important, lifesaving reminder, the above mentioned items are designed to assist you in keeping your pool safe. With that in mind, nothing replaces the watchful eye and close supervision of an adult.

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