The outdoor swimming pool has always had to work hard to to look good in a natural setting, particularly in climates similar to the UK; afterall, there are not that many sunny days that inspire relaxing around the pool, as you would in the south of Spain for example. For this reason, the concept of the swimming pond really seems to be taking hold in temperate climates. The swimming pond is a body of water to swim in but that's where the similarity with the conventional swimming pool ends. This is a pond, and as such is a creation that uses nature and if designed well, enhances and settles into the garden landscape. This is a natural environment, an oasis for micro-organisms, plants and insects that all form part of the ecosystem, resulting in a crystal clear pool that when the sun does shine, is there to be enjoyed by us as well.
From a brief look at history, we have been swimming in rivers, lakes and ponds since the beginning of time and the big difference today is that we want to enjoy the water without catching something unpleasant.
The concept of using natural systems to clean the water for swimming is quite recent, dating back to the mid 70's in Austria where the green shoots of the environmental movement wanted a better swimming experience. Since then, many swimming ponds have been built on the continent, not only for private use but large public ponds as well. They say the water is good enough to drink once it is returned to the pond. In the UK the history is much shorter. The first private pond was constructed in 2001 but now 100's of pools have been built with a number of specialist companies currently designing and building in the market.
How does it work?
The concept is relatively simple; the idea is to create a swimming zone within the excavated area of the pond. This zone will be deep and large enough for the client's swimming needs. Around the swimming zone is a planted regeneration zone. A retaining wall between these two areas keeps them apart. The retaining wall tends to finish about 300mm below the water surface so that water can flow freely from the swimming zone to the regeneration zone. From a visual perspective, this allows the swimming zone to merge into the overall feel of the pond.
The pond is lined and the regeneration zone outside the swimming area filled with suitable aggregate which allows bacteria plenty of surface area to cling too. These bacteria perform the task of cleaning the water. A variety of bacteria decompose any organic matter, releasing nitrates and phosphates. Above the aggregates, plants not only feed on these nitrates and phosphates, but also transform the pool in to a natural pond nestling in its environment. Plants range from those that prefer deeper water such as lilies to those living in the margins and bog areas. Perforated pipes beneath the regeneration zone allow cleaned water to be drawn by a pump and returned to the swimming zone. Other components in the plumbing system includes skimmers for removing leaves and large debris, filters for finer particles and UV filters for added security.
The bacteria that do the work in the regeneration zone are aerobic so need oxygen. The plants help channel oxygen via their root systems but additional aeration is always a plus and can be built into a feature such as a waterfall or fountain. As a rule of thumb, the filter area should be as large as the swimming zone, in other words, 50% of the total area. Filter efficiency will vary depending on the aggregate used for the medium. The aggregate must not increase the pH above 7.5 so any limestone materials are out of the question. Gravels can be used but materials such as expanded clay and pumice offer much greater surface area for bacteria to live and multiply with the added benefit of being pH neutral. Where space is critical, or the design does not allow for a regeneration zone of the required proportions then biofilters are available. These are boxes filled with a high surface area material into which you introduce the bacteria. The water then passes though the filter and is cleaned. Don't forget though, if you want the look of a natural pond, then you need plenty of space devoted to the regeneration zone to achieve the desired effect.
In my next article we shall look deeper into the design and construction of a natural swimming pond. In the meantime, if you are interested, then please visit Mountain Pools where further details are available.
The article from EzineArticles.com
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Q&A Waterline Tile on Fiberglass Pools
If you are considering the purchase of an inground fiberglass pool you probably have some questions about perimeter waterline tile. The purpose of this article is to answer the 6 most common questions we receive regarding tile on fiberglass pools:
What type of tile is used?
Essentially, the same tile is used on fiberglass pools as on concrete pools. Frost-proof ceramic tile is commonly used and glass tile is becoming more popular.
How is the tile installed on the pool?
The tile is applied to the surface of the fiberglass shell using silicone based adhesive and grout. Silicone products are used to allow the tile to flex and move with the pool. The silicone grout is significantly more resistant to staining than the cement based grout used on concrete pools.
How long will tile on a fiberglass pool last?
The life expectancy of perimeter tile on any pool is directly related to how well the pool owner keeps their water balanced. But on average pool tile will last eight to fourteen years.
How much does waterline tile cost?
The initial cost of waterline tile is typically $1,500 to $2,500. Tile replacement is normally approximately double the initial cost.
Can waterline tile be added later?
Although it is possible to install perimeter tile on a fiberglass pool at any time, it is very difficult to do it in a way that looks professional if done after the coping of the pool has been installed. It is essentially something that needs to be done when the pool is initially installed.
Does having waterline tile add significantly to the maintenance of a composite pool?
No. You may have to clean the grout lines between the tile once or twice a year for a total of one to two hours of additional maintenance per season.
Article from EzineArticles.com
What type of tile is used?
Essentially, the same tile is used on fiberglass pools as on concrete pools. Frost-proof ceramic tile is commonly used and glass tile is becoming more popular.
How is the tile installed on the pool?
The tile is applied to the surface of the fiberglass shell using silicone based adhesive and grout. Silicone products are used to allow the tile to flex and move with the pool. The silicone grout is significantly more resistant to staining than the cement based grout used on concrete pools.
How long will tile on a fiberglass pool last?
The life expectancy of perimeter tile on any pool is directly related to how well the pool owner keeps their water balanced. But on average pool tile will last eight to fourteen years.
How much does waterline tile cost?
The initial cost of waterline tile is typically $1,500 to $2,500. Tile replacement is normally approximately double the initial cost.
Can waterline tile be added later?
Although it is possible to install perimeter tile on a fiberglass pool at any time, it is very difficult to do it in a way that looks professional if done after the coping of the pool has been installed. It is essentially something that needs to be done when the pool is initially installed.
Does having waterline tile add significantly to the maintenance of a composite pool?
No. You may have to clean the grout lines between the tile once or twice a year for a total of one to two hours of additional maintenance per season.
Article from EzineArticles.com
Friday, January 29, 2010
Vinyl the popular option in swimming pools
As the summers approach, most of us yearn to cool our bodies in a lovely swimming. Pools are the most enjoyable and relaxing refuge from the scotching sun. They are a recreational area for numerous activities for people of all age groups. Kids like playing and splashing around in the pools while others find it a source of relaxing and rejuvenating activities. Swimming pools are also a good way for work out and overall fitness. Thus, a pool acts as a healthy option for some people while it is a source of fun and relaxation for others.
Generally swimming pools are categorised in two types. One can either opt for concrete swimming pools or vinyl pools Toronto. The decision totally depends upon your likings. But, broadly speaking the most popular among these two types of pools is vinyl pools. Installing these pools is easy and hassles free than the ground pools that need days to complete. These types of pools do not need frequent cleaning and thus are almost maintenance free. It is very easy to winterize vinyl pools than other types of pools. The smooth surface of the Vinyl pools offer resistance against stains and prevent the growth of bacteria, mainly algae in the pool. These pools come with their own designs and patterns therefore there is no need of colouring the pool for getting the desired shade and color in the pool. The flexible exterior of vinyl pools Toronto makes it very popular. The users of Vinyl pools do not worry about pool leakage or cracking. Vinyl finishing gives the property of elasticity to the surface thereby preventing cracking or hole in the pool ground.
Installing vinyl pools Toronto is comparatively a simple task. There are many professional firms in the locality that provide installation services as per your needs and requirements. So, in case you are planning to buy a swimming pool, do check out the option of vinyl pools.
Generally swimming pools are categorised in two types. One can either opt for concrete swimming pools or vinyl pools Toronto. The decision totally depends upon your likings. But, broadly speaking the most popular among these two types of pools is vinyl pools. Installing these pools is easy and hassles free than the ground pools that need days to complete. These types of pools do not need frequent cleaning and thus are almost maintenance free. It is very easy to winterize vinyl pools than other types of pools. The smooth surface of the Vinyl pools offer resistance against stains and prevent the growth of bacteria, mainly algae in the pool. These pools come with their own designs and patterns therefore there is no need of colouring the pool for getting the desired shade and color in the pool. The flexible exterior of vinyl pools Toronto makes it very popular. The users of Vinyl pools do not worry about pool leakage or cracking. Vinyl finishing gives the property of elasticity to the surface thereby preventing cracking or hole in the pool ground.
Installing vinyl pools Toronto is comparatively a simple task. There are many professional firms in the locality that provide installation services as per your needs and requirements. So, in case you are planning to buy a swimming pool, do check out the option of vinyl pools.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Taking Good Care of Your Swimming Pool The Different Ways
One of the best places in your home is your pool. It is where you hold parties for different occasions. It is where you hang out with family and friends during your spare times. It is a place where you can relax after a long-day office work. Indeed, your swimming pool becomes a part of your life.
Since you are truly benefiting a lot from your own swimming pool, it very important that you do your part to make it more ideal for us. Your pool deserves a good care. Taking care of your pool not just can prolong its life but it also a very good way to having a pool that will stand-out from the rest.
Here are some ideas on how can you give your pool the care that it truly deserves:
Clean it regularly
As a responsible owner, you need to clean your swimming pool regularly. In my case, I do the major cleaning once a week while I do the minor cleaning daily. Major cleaning involves removal of debris like stones, sand, and other foreign objects. My daily cleaning includes moving the leaves out of the pool as well as making my swimming pool accessories more organized. Some say it is quite hassle to clean a pool daily. Well, in my part, there's no 'cleaning as burden' issue as I have always been doing it with fun. I do the minor cleaning manually and I use an automatic cleaner when I do the major cleaning. So, you can do it too. Try to regularly clean your pool most especially during winter - avoid pool contamination.
Check it for potential leaks
When your pool has leaks, it is not just a waste of time when it becomes major but also it is a waste of money. Therefore have your pool regularly checked from leaks before it's too late. You can have it done by carefully examining the level of water. When you suspect a leak because of immediate dropping of water level then act accordingly. You can do the fixing by yourself when it is minor but when you indeed discover that the leaks are major, better ask for a help from a professional pool builder. It is better to be sure than sorry.
Proper cleaning and placement of pool accessories
Not only the pool itself needs cleaning but also the accessories you use in swimming. Clean the pool slides, the floats, and other stuff. When not needed, put your pool accessories to their places. If you have inflatable slide, you can also keep the stuff when not in use. Slides that are made of rubber or plastic materials can easily get damaged when they are exposed to sunlight.
So, above are just few tips to make the most out of your pool. Be a responsible owner.
Since you are truly benefiting a lot from your own swimming pool, it very important that you do your part to make it more ideal for us. Your pool deserves a good care. Taking care of your pool not just can prolong its life but it also a very good way to having a pool that will stand-out from the rest.
Here are some ideas on how can you give your pool the care that it truly deserves:
Clean it regularly
As a responsible owner, you need to clean your swimming pool regularly. In my case, I do the major cleaning once a week while I do the minor cleaning daily. Major cleaning involves removal of debris like stones, sand, and other foreign objects. My daily cleaning includes moving the leaves out of the pool as well as making my swimming pool accessories more organized. Some say it is quite hassle to clean a pool daily. Well, in my part, there's no 'cleaning as burden' issue as I have always been doing it with fun. I do the minor cleaning manually and I use an automatic cleaner when I do the major cleaning. So, you can do it too. Try to regularly clean your pool most especially during winter - avoid pool contamination.
Check it for potential leaks
When your pool has leaks, it is not just a waste of time when it becomes major but also it is a waste of money. Therefore have your pool regularly checked from leaks before it's too late. You can have it done by carefully examining the level of water. When you suspect a leak because of immediate dropping of water level then act accordingly. You can do the fixing by yourself when it is minor but when you indeed discover that the leaks are major, better ask for a help from a professional pool builder. It is better to be sure than sorry.
Proper cleaning and placement of pool accessories
Not only the pool itself needs cleaning but also the accessories you use in swimming. Clean the pool slides, the floats, and other stuff. When not needed, put your pool accessories to their places. If you have inflatable slide, you can also keep the stuff when not in use. Slides that are made of rubber or plastic materials can easily get damaged when they are exposed to sunlight.
So, above are just few tips to make the most out of your pool. Be a responsible owner.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Make the Most of Your Swimming Pool
There are many reliable websites on the Internet, which provide substantial information on swimming pools in Mississauga. This is really an exciting prospect, as you do not need to go out and meet the dealers - a simple online search would enable you to get detailed information without hassles. We all dream of having a superb swimming pool in our home. From its designing to other specifications, we do pay equal attention to pools and other related aspects - to make it a rewarding endeavor for ourselves in a longer run. By choosing a dealer online, you can easily pay through a credit card. In the age of Internet, it is pretty easy to get things or transaction done as quickly as possible. At the same time, it is absolutely secure and does not involve any sort of paperwork. As per your preferences, the pool would be shipped out to you after it would be customized.
Earlier, pools were limited to notable spas and hotels, but now with the emergence of online sellers and growing popularity of swimming pools in Mississauga, it has become a lot easier to get a pool of your dream. The obvious reason behind the growing popularity of such pools is that they can be easily customized. Hence, they can be fitted to any space. In fact, you can attach your pool to your garden or terrace - to realize your dreams. These pools can be easily designed as per your needs or requirements. As per your requirements, you can either go for traditional pool or order for unique ones - as per your preferences.
With swimming pools Mississauga, you get all the options. Hence, there are all sorts of pools made of plaster, concrete, tiles and stones among others. They are not just pools, but also say a lot about your grand lifestyle. You can attach other important accessories to your pool including outdoor grills, lounging decks and swings for kids among other options.
Earlier, pools were limited to notable spas and hotels, but now with the emergence of online sellers and growing popularity of swimming pools in Mississauga, it has become a lot easier to get a pool of your dream. The obvious reason behind the growing popularity of such pools is that they can be easily customized. Hence, they can be fitted to any space. In fact, you can attach your pool to your garden or terrace - to realize your dreams. These pools can be easily designed as per your needs or requirements. As per your requirements, you can either go for traditional pool or order for unique ones - as per your preferences.
With swimming pools Mississauga, you get all the options. Hence, there are all sorts of pools made of plaster, concrete, tiles and stones among others. They are not just pools, but also say a lot about your grand lifestyle. You can attach other important accessories to your pool including outdoor grills, lounging decks and swings for kids among other options.
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