We've always been advocates for alternative filtering systems for backyard pools and there are even options for creating natural ponds. But the barriers to going "no chemical" are many and they include, higher-cost of filtration system, finding a company to maintain your pool, overall effectiveness.
June 2, 2008 | Comments ()
Here’s a project that might make your life easier during the summer, especially if you’ve got kids that tend to get dirty while they play. An outdoor shower can complement a pool, of course, or just be used as a way to rinse off so as not to track any dirt into the house after a day in the garden. Plus, in the summer heat it can be fun to shower outside!
Tags: meredith clinton, outdoor shower, pool, shower
May 20, 2008 | Comments ()
If your backyard pool resembles more "concrete pond" than swimming oasis then maybe it's time to rejuvenate it. There are companies now that will evaluate your current pool and work with a designer to build your ideal outdoor entertaining area with the pool as the focus.
Tags: backyard, entertaining, firepit, outdoor, pools
May 11, 2008 | Comments ()
With heated pools more people open them up before the official start of summer. If you’re tackling this by yourself, make sure you take all the precautions now so your pool season goes by without a hitch (or at least without too many).
Tags: clean, meredith clinton, pools
April 30, 2008 | Comments ()
If you're looking for a way to enhance your pond or water element, then checkout these floating islands that promise to:
Tags: biohaven, eco-friendly, landscaping
January 21, 2008 | Comments ()
Swimming pools are great fun but if the kids have moved out or you find yourself sunbathing less and less, you may want to consider turning the pool into another type of water fixture, a pond. This homeowner didn't need a "natural" swimming pool but rather a minimum-maintenance pond that added value to his house. He's provided a great step-by-step as well as a basic budget.
Pond photo after the jump.
April 24, 2007 | Comments ()
Flipping the script on what backyard pools should be, Mick Hilleary of Total Habitat, has introduced America to a more natural way of keeping a pool clean that doesn't involve chemicals. Natural swimming pools originated in Europe about 20 years ago but haven't picked up here in the states. Mick is trying to change that and with the "green" movement gathering momentum his swimming pools may be primed for the big-time.
Tags: green building, pools
April 10, 2007 | Comments ()
One of the newer innovations in pool design that is really catching on are wet decks and the use of "wall-less" entry points for pools. Sand shores at hotel pools are becoming more commonplace as guests can enjoy the feeling of being at the beach and walking along ankle high water or simply sitting down in the cool water without needing to get completely submerged. You can now integrate this type of wet deck at home sans sand.
These wading decks allow you to relax in a few inches of water instead baking over the heat of a dry pool deck. You can bring in deck furniture and even setup an umbrella. If you've got kids the wet deck can be an instant wading pool by just adding removable but stable in pool fencing to separate the wet deck from the deeper water.
Wet deck brings back that shoreline feeling [Las Vegas Review-Journal]
July 26, 2006 | Comments ()
It's important to follow pool safety guidelines and one of the first rules is taking preventative measures by installing a pool fence. A pool fence should be mandatory for pool owners with small children as most of you know how quickly you can lose site of your kids and how curious they are.
Backyard Pool Fence [DIYNet]
July 17, 2006 | Comments ()If you own a swimming pool or plan on installing one soon, please keep these safety precautions in mind and make sure you adhere to them throughout the year.
Water Safety [Red Cross]
Tags: red cross, safety, swimming pool
May 27, 2006 | Comments ()
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