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The First Swimming Pool

The First Swimming Pool

Ever wonder why we have swimming pools and where they actually came from?

 

You can imagine people weren’t relaxing in swimming pools over 5000 years ago. Most “great baths” were used for religious ceremonies and for just plain bathing. As times changed, pools became competitive starting with Britain in the 1800’s as competitive swimming was first introduced.  The first documented swimming pool was a public pool along the Colorado River called Deep Eddy/Bathing Beach. It began as just a swimming hole In the Colorado River where cold springs bubbled out of the riverbanks. People swam in the river where a large boulder formed an eddy, becoming Deep Eddy. Today you can still visit Deep Eddy in Austin, Texas where people still enjoy swimming and camping. After World War II, swimming pools became a symbol of status and wealth. Now, there are swimming pools located in almost every state with more people owning pools compared to those who don’t.

 

Check out these fun facts about the swimming pool!

  • The National Swimming Pool Foundation estimates there are more than 10 million swimming pools across the USA, including more than 360,000 public pools that are open year-round.
  • New Zealand has around 200,000 total swimming pools for its 4 million people, making it the leader in pools per capita
  • The Romans introduced swimming as a social event to Britain
  • The first documented indoor swimming pool was built in England
  • Acrobatic diving was developed in Germany and Sweden
  • In the 1950’s, hotels started installing swimming pools in their resorts.

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How to Prepare Your Pool for a Hurricane

How to Prepare Your Pool for a Hurricane

If you’ve ever lived in Florida, then you know hurricanes are a normal occurrence for any Florida resident. If you have a pool being built in your backyard then it’s best to be prepared in case any damage is done to your property.

 

Lower Pool Water

If you have water in your pool, remember to lower it to about 6 inches just prior to the storm to allow for extra rain to fill it. It’s important to remove any loose items from your pool and backyard such as tables, chairs, or pool toys. This also includes removing any objects that are in your pool and refraining from placing things like furniture inside your pool. Doing so may result in a void in your warranty finish and damage to your property.

 

Turn Off Power

If you lose power in your home, you must turn off the breakers to all your pool equipment. This eliminates any possible power surges once the power is returned.

 

Keep It Clean

Your pool builder should contact you and give you notice to what their specific plans for hurricane preparation. Their preparation should include cleaning your project of any left-over material, so it does not cause a threat to your home. If you are having a screen enclosure built, taking the doors off to allow wind to move through is a great idea! Although you’ll never need to cut or slice your screen panels. Always check with your pool builder before starting your pool preparation.

 

Post Hurricane

The post hurricane phase can be the most difficult because of the aftermath you’re forced to confront. Dealing with debris clean up and other property damages can be challenging depending on the size of the storm or hurricane. Remember the top priority other than keeping your property safe, be sure to have a safety plan for your family. Click here to view a packing list for hurricane preparations.

 

Stay safe and comment below to let us know your best storm and hurricane advice!

 

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When is the Best Time to Build a Swimming Pool?

When is the Best Time to Build a Swimming Pool?

Deciding when to build your swimming pool can be a huge decision.

Weather, location, and construction are all factors that go into the timeline of building a swimming pool. By better understanding what can affect the timeline of your swimming pool process, you can have a better pool construction experience.

 

Florida Pool Building

If you call the sunshine state your home, then you’re lucky enough to have mostly clear skies! Building a pool in Florida has its perks because snow and below freezing temperatures are not very common. Although sunny clear skies are normal in Florida so is a heavy amount of rain. Summer seasons have an average index of 4“of rain per week. Rain can affect the process of your pool because it’s extremely challenging to complete the phases of work that need to be done while there’s heavy water in your backyard.

 

If you’re looking to build a pool and you live in Florida, winter and fall are the best time to start building! Most of us tend to believe that starting your pool process after the holidays is best to have your pool ready in time for summer, although that is not the case. Most customers tend to start their pool process after the holidays, but it’s best to start before! Starting before the holidays, around August or September, will give you more time in case any complications happen with your project. At Legacy Pools, we value your reason for building a pool, so timeline is important to us when meeting and scheduling with out clients.

 

Whatever season you decide to build your pool in, you should expect that weather to have an impact on your pool building process. Although, it helps to choose an excellent pool company to provide quality work for your backyard.

 

What season would you suggest to build a swimming pool in?

Comment below! Happy swimming!

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5 Tips for Pool Organization

5 Tips for Pool Organization

Keeping your house and pool organized can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be!

 

Summer is coming to an end which means the kids are back in school and a weekly schedule is soon approaching! Keeping your outdoor space organized is just as important as the space inside your house. By learning some tricks on how to keep these spaces clean, you’ll be able to conquer any week thrown at you.

 

Storage Storage Storage

Storage is everything! Investing in a large storage container will make your life a hundred times easier. Items like wooden racks can be great for drying wet towels and bathing suits.

Keep it Close

It’s important to keep those easy cleaning supplies close to your backyard if an accident happens. Having a swiffer or mop in your backyard closet or close to the door, will save you the trip from having to run inside in case of an emergency.

Be Creative

Don’t be afraid to get creative with storing your pool toys and rafts! Standing up racks, vertical storage, and seat containers are all great ideas if you have a smaller backyard. The key is to work within the space you already have, no one wants to build a whole separate area for all your rafts, toys, and towels.

Be Smart

If you’ve ever hosted a pool party or have small children, then you know how wet your house can become with guests coming in and out. By putting down a rug and making a dry path to the bathroom, you’ll yourself some cleaning later.

Mind your Drawers

Having containers outside by your pool can save you a lot of room and organization. By storing outside items like sunscreen, towels, or pool toys outside, it keeps your home clean as well.

 

We hope these tips help you keep your home and backyard clean! Happy swimming!

 

 

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Backyard on a Budget

Backyard on a Budget

Finding inspiration with a limited budget can be challenging but we’re here to change your perspective. By getting creative with what you already have, you can still have the backyard you’ve always dreamed about.

 

Identify Your Focus

It’s time to identify what you want! The first step into creating your dream backyard on a budget, is narrowing down what’s important to you. Is it important that you have a lot of seating for parties and entertainment? How about having a cozy nook where you can spend time enjoying the fresh air? Whatever it may be, finding those significant things will help you decide where it’s worth spending your money and where you can save it.

Once you’ve found what’s important to you, it’s time to decide where you want the center of attention. What we mean is: where is the place you’ll spend most of your time? What areas in your backyard do you want to draw attention to and away from? Adding mirrors, vertical gardens, and vine walls are all great things you can add to bring variety to your backyard.

This backyard is a perfect example of how creative you can be! Our client wanted her pool to feel enclosed and private, so they added some matching curtains around their screen. A perfect DIY idea!

 

Simplify It

You can do it! Simplifying your backyard space can seem intimating but there’s an easy way to get past all the anxiety. Start by choosing one area or item to clean and/or decorate. By starting with one category, it becomes less stressful and more fun! Then, you can recognize what you truly what your space to look and feel like. The best part about starting slow is how you can take something and use it for someone completely different than its original intent.

Photo via @nataschajanina  

Click here for some ideas about how to use your items are various purposes!

 

Refurbish, Don’t Replace

Trying to throw away that old rug that you’ll never use!? Not so fast! Refurbishing your older items instead of replacing them can save you some real cash. Try cleaning and cutting that rug into throw pillowcases that you could use on your outside patio! Inventing new ways to use the items you already have can be a lot of fun and a great way to figure out your own style and taste. Once you’re able to learn about what you like and what you want, the functionality of your space becomes a lot easier to create.

 

Check out our Pinterest page for some awesome DIY hacks for your backyard space!

Extra resources: https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/porch/outdoor-rooms/cheap-backyard-ideas/?slide=slide_e3088193-f7a3-4a51-a9e2-d5c6883a9831#slide_e3088193-f7a3-4a51-a9e2-d5c6883a9831

 

Now it’s your turn! We’re excited to see what you’re able to create with your backyard space! Comment below what your best backyard decorating advice would be!

Happy swimming!

 

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10 Questions to Ask Before Building a Pool

10 Questions to Ask Before Building a Pool

Dreaming about building a swimming pool? Check out these questions to help you prepare.

 

What will I use it for?

The first question you need to ask yourself is what is the main purpose of your pool? Narrowing down why you want a pool in the first place will help make the rest of the process much easier. Are you looking for a space to entertain? A space to have time with your family? Or a space for escape and relaxation? Whatever your reason may be, there are plenty of pool designs, features, and layouts to make your dream become a reality.

 

Do I want a pool, spa, or hot tub?

Now that you’ve narrowed down the purpose of your pool, you can start dreaming about what you want it to look like! The amazing part about building a custom pool is how much flexibility you have to dream. Pool features like fan jets, , and waterfalls are all options to help your pool vision come to life. If your backyard allows it, you can dream as big or small as you want!

 

 

What size and shape?

Depending on the size of your backyard, you’ll get to decide how large or small you want your swimming pool! By looking up other pool designs and projects, you can have a better idea of what you want your pool to look like. When you choose us as your builder, a designer will visit your home to help create a pool design that is right for you!

Click here for a free estimate.

 

What is my budget?

Money, money, money! Determining your budget before contacting a pool builder is the best thing you can do. Preparing what price range you’re willing to pay for your pool will make choosing finishes, pool features, decking, and screens much easier. If you’re looking for financing options you can visit our website to view who we suggest. We suggest that you talk with a financial advisor to see if building a pool is the right step for you.

 

How will you keep your pool clean?

Keeping your pool clean is the number one factor that pool owners forget when purchasing their pool. You’ll need to decide if you rather maintain your pool yourself or hire a professional. The advantage to having a professional come service your pool is the amount of time you’ll save. Pool service pricing is usually reasonable and worth the cost.

Tip: Spend some time learning about pool maintenance yourself and you can recognize if there’s ever a problem with your pool’s overall health.

 

What kind of area do I live in?

Sometimes different areas or neighborhoods can have rules or policies in place for in-ground swimming pools. You can check with your county to confirm that there are no hidden procedures you must take before building a swimming pool in your backyard.

 

Will it raise the value of my home?

The great thing about owning a pool is the value it can add to your home. Installing a pool can raise the value of your home which is always a great advantage if you’re ever going to resell. Building a pool is an investment; keeping that perspective throughout your building process will benefit you in the long run.

 

How soon do I want a pool?

Timing is everything. Whether your dream pool is right around the corner or years away, it’s never to early to start looking researching. Most pool builders give a quote is valid for up to 60 days, which should give you enough time to decide if you want to continue with the pool building process. Prices for construction materials are subject to change throughout the year, so you’ll want to ask about their estimate policy. Keep in mind that weather can have a direct effect on the timeline of your project including something as simple as rain.

 

 

Am I ready to have a construction site on my property?

Building a pool in your backyard also means you are welcoming a construction site to live there. Construction can be messy and dirty but if you choose your pool builder wisely, they’ll make sure to keep your property clean.

Tip: Keep this question in mind if you have small kids or dogs that you’ll want to keep out of this area during the pool building process.

 

What are you waiting for?

We hope this was useful as you prepare to design you DREAM pool! Why do you want a swimming pool in your backyard? What do you want to use it for? Comment below, we’d love to hear from you!

Happy swimming!

 

 

 

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Pool Designs for Every Backyard

Pool Designs for Every Backyard

Tired of searching for the perfect pool design? Look no further because we’re here to tell you that there’s a pool design for every space.  

Free Form Pools

The most popular types of pool designs are called free form pools. A free form pool is defined as an irregular style or shape pool, with curves or flowing lines. These types of pools are popular because of the custom design you can create, and the available water features you can add. Whether your backyard is large or small, we’ll find a pool design to fit your space.

 

Smaller Backyards

If your backyard is on the smaller scale, no need to worry. Even the smallest backyards have an opportunity to create something great, it’ll just take some creativity to get there. The best thing to do when you have smaller backyard is to take some time to understand what specific features are important to you. If you’re trying to fit a waterfall feature on top of a lap pool design, you might run into some issues. You’ll have to choose a couple of specific features you want your pool to have, and compromise on the test. Smaller backyards can create something beautiful that perfectly fits in your backyard.

 

Larger Backyards

The advantage to having a large backyard is the features and designs that you’ll have the option to choose from. This part of the pool process is the most exciting part! You’ll be able to dream and envision what you want your outdoor space to look like. Before your pool is built, you’ll want to sit down and decide, “What is the purpose of our pool?”. Are you looking for a space to entertain or a place to relax with your family? Once you land on an answer, you’ll have an easier time deciding on color and feature selections. There are so many possibilities out there for your dream pool, the more specific your purpose is, the more specific you can serve that purpose. Whatever your purpose may be, there will be a different features and designs that will help you accomplish the goal of your swimming pool.  

 

Edged Pool Designs

Whether you’re looking for a lap pool or a rectangular pool with edges, then these pool designs are perfect for you! Having edges in your pool creates a modern to more contemporary themed design. If you have a large backyard or you’re working with a lot of land, these designs are awesome for you to browse! These pool types make it easy to entertain guests and have the whole family over for pool parties. They can also lean more in a “resort” themed direction if that is within your design vision.

 

 

Free-Flowing Pool Designs

These types of pool designs are the most popular because of their curved edges and free flowing theme. Water features like waterfalls, spas, bubblers, and fan jets are easy to install in these pools and they look incredible together. The curves edges of a free-flowing pool allow you to be creative with the layout and design of your pool, especially if your backyard backs up to a river or lake.

 

 

 

Looking for more pool inspiration? Click the links below to discover the pool design you’re looking for. 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ8stL374K_3vyup8dUUHTA?view_as=subscriber

https://www.housebeautiful.com/room-decorating/outdoor-ideas/g1416/pool-design-ideas/?slide=1

 

Still conflicted about what pool design is right for your family? Don’t dream alone! Let Legacy listen to your vision and help create something beautiful for you and your family. Click here for a free design consultation from one of our designers.

 

Happy designing! ?

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Throwing the Best Fourth of July Party

Throwing the Best Fourth of July Party

Summer parties can easily be the highlight of your summer!

Although no one talks about the preparation and stress that might accompany those parties. With July 4th right around the corner, be sure to check out these top three tips when grilling for the summer.

 

Tip #1: Grilling

The key to a great party is always great food. That’s why preparing what food you’ll serve before your party is a vital piece of preparation. Marinating chicken, steak, or kababs before your guests arrive make barbecuing your meat more efficient and less time consuming. There’s also some creative desserts you can create for special days like 4th of July.

 

Tip #2: Swimming

Your swimming pool is your best weapon with summer parties! Especially if you’re hosting guests with big families, swimming is an easy way to keep your kids and even adults entertained. The advantage to having a pool is there is little to no preparation required! Keep your pool clean and throw some floats in and you’re set!

 

 

Tip #3: Fireworks

This is your grand finale! If you’re lucky, you won’t have to buy your own fireworks to watch a show. If you live in a larger neighborhood or a place where there’s a firework show close by, then you can just hop in your pool and watch! It’s always a safe bet to invest in some sparklers for the kids and street fireworks if there’s no shows close by. You can also entertain your guests by setting out games like corn hole, backyard volleyball, or bad mitten.

When buying fireworks, be sure to check out these standard safety rules to be sure you aren’t violating any neighborhood policies.

 

 

So throw some gas on the grill and get to planning! Fourth of July is meant to be a time with family and friends, celebrating Independence Day.

What are you Fourth of July traditions? Comment below and tell us!

Happy swimming! ?

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What Determines the Price of a Pool?

What Determines the Price of a Pool?

Looking at the price of a new swimming pool can be intimidating.

Many different factors are considered when you are building a brand-new pool. There’s no need to stress though, we’ve taken the initiative to list some of the main factors that play a key role in the cost of your dream pool!

Shape and Size

The size and shape of your swimming pool have a direct impact on the price of your project. There are numerous types of custom designs you can create for your swimming pool. Whether you are looking for a rectangular design or one that has curved edges, each type will have a cost difference. Obviously if your pool is on the larger side with a lot of edges and features, the price of your project will increase. This factor also depends on the size and layout of your backyard.

 

Ground Conditions

The elevation and ground of your backyard are also taken into consideration when designing your pool. Trees, plants, fences, and the basic condition of your ground are all factors for the digging phase of your project. Every project and backyard are different, that’s why you’ll want a free quote to have someone come look at your backyard. When your designer sees your property, they should be able to guide you through the best options for your future pool. You may also find some water in the ground while they start digging, don’t be surprised as this is common in areas like Florida.

 

Utilities

Building a swimming pool is an investment. Therefore, you should plan to pay for the maintenance of your pool after it is completed. Factors like cleaning systems, monthly water bills, weekly maintenance, or skimmers can easily add up so be sure to budget correctly. If you plan to service your pool on your own, be sure to take a Pool School class before to gain all the information needed to upkeep your pool.

Pool Features

Before the building process of your project begins, you’ll have the option to choose what type of finishes and features that you want for your dream pool. Types of features can include bubblers, waterfalls, fan jets, or any type of “enhancement” that you want to add to your swimming pool. These features need to be decided before the pool building process begins to ensure the lay out of your pool is safe and functional.

 

You’ll also have the opportunity to make decisions on aspects like interior finish, tile, and screens. Interior finish is what the bottom of your pool will look like; there are many options when choosing your interior finish. You can also choose to upgrade your tile to glass tile which is a better type of quality and look. If you choose to have a screen, there are options like standard frames or window frames that you can choose from as well. As you can see there are many options when designing your dream pool! These all influence the cost of your pool and what type of design and functionality you are looking for.

If you are wanting to upgrade to a high quality interior finish or glass tile, be sure to talk about those options with your designer prior to the building process.

 

Materials & Equipment

Building a pool means you are choosing to pay your contractor for the material and labor used on your project. Some pool projects can be as low as $25,000 and as high as $100,000+. It all depends on how you plan to use your pool. Whether you’re looking to entertain for a big family or relax with your significant other, it all makes a difference on how your dream pool will be built.

 

The next best step is to contact a swimming pool contractor today! At Legacy Pools, we install in-ground pools with the best materials and options out there. Never hesitate to give us a call for a free quote and we’ll come visit your property to give you a full consultation about what’s best for your backyard.

 

Was this article helpful!? Comment below the first thing you would do in your new swimming pool!?

 

Happy swimming!

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Water Safety for Kids

Water Safety for Kids

No matter how old your children are, water safety is important for every age. As a parent, it’s so vital to know how to avoid risks in the pool and respond in case of an emergency. We’ve done the dirty work for you and listed the best practices for your kids when they’re playing in the pool.

 

Supervision

Although this might sound like an easy step, it is the one rule parents seem to forget. When your kids are playing in the water, it is important that you give them your undivided attention. The leading preventable injury for children 1 – 4 years old is drowning, so be sure to supervise your kids, especially if they’ve just learned how to swim. Remember there is no substitute for active supervision.

Another great practice for parent supervision is the Water Watcher Card. This practice is used when there are several adults present, but the confusion remains with who exactly is supervising the kids while swimming. With this card, it’s easy to identify the adult in charge!

 

 

Swimming Lessons

Swimming lessons are another great way to avoid risks in the pool! It’s never too soon to start having your children learn the basic behavior approaches to swimming. The earliest you can start introducing your baby to water is when they are 6 months old. The YMCA has great programs for all ages. Check out your local YMCA for more information.

 

 

Pool Rules

If your kids are older, then having basic pool rules is the best way to take some safety measures. Remember to teach them not to run, push, or play around the edges of your pool. This can be an easy way for head injuries to occur. The earlier you start educating your children about safe swimming, the more confident you’ll feel in their ability to avoid risks and emergencies.

Learning CPR

If you know how to perform CPR, then you know how helpful it can be when someone needs it. Learning CPR can also be something for your whole family! Make it a family activity and get CPR certified so you’re prepared for any type of emergency that goes on in your pool. All you must do is take the course online and attend a class! Click here to find a CPR course and class near you.

 

We hope that these practices for water safety are helpful in your swimming journey! Do you have any great tips or advice for raising children around a pool? If so, comment below! We would love to hear them and continue to help our community stay safe. Happy swimming!