Pool School
When it comes to creating a backyard oasis, few decisions hold as much weight as choosing the right type of pool. In this battle of the aquatic titans, vinyl pools stand tall, offering a blend of affordability, customization, and durability that is hard to match. While fiberglass and gunite pools have their merits, this blog post will explore why vinyl pools deserve the spotlight in the vinyl vs. fiberglass vs. gunite showdown.
First of all, if budget concerns weigh heavily on your mind, vinyl pools have a clear edge. Vinyl pool installation costs are often lower than those of fiberglass or gunite pools by as much as half the cost. The materials and construction process used in vinyl pools are less expensive and most often much faster to build leading to a more affordable and enjoyable overall project. This financial freedom can allow you to allocate more resources to other aspects of your backyard, such as landscaping, decking, and outdoor entertainment areas.
Next, Vinyl pools offer an unparalleled level of customization. Whether you envision a classic blue lagoon or a pool that seamlessly blends into your landscape, vinyl liners come in a plethora of designs, colors, and patterns. These liner colors can transform your pool into a canvas for personal expression, reflecting your style and preferences like no other pool type can with a giant selection of prints and patterns ranging from Caribbean topaz to the to the mosaic colors of a Tuscan villa retreat. In contrast, fiberglass and gunite pools tend to offer limited customization options of color, however they do have more options when it comes to freeform shapes and sizes.
Yet another popular customer favorite of vinyl pools is their smooth, non-abrasive surface. Unlike gunite pools, vinyl does not have the potential to cause discomfort or abrasions to swimmers’ skin. Families with young children can rest easy knowing that vinyl liners are gentle and forgiving on the feet and toes, reducing the likelihood of scrapes and scratches during play.
Short on time? Vinyl pool owners can revel in the minimal maintenance requirements of their pools. The smooth surface of vinyl liners makes it difficult for algae to take hold, reducing the need for excessive scrubbing and chemical treatments. Furthermore, vinyl liners will not crack or chip which can occur with fiberglass or gunite pools. This translates into reduced repair and maintenance costs over the life of the pool. Of course, we all know that California is prone for earthquakes. Don’t worry, the Vinyl pool will move and shake with the ground and is by far the best option for our area or especially hillside areas with know ground movement. The flexibility of vinyl is simply unapparelled in this category.
While each type of pool has its unique strengths, the benefits of vinyl pools shine bright. From their customizable designs and cost-effective installation to their comfort and low maintenance requirements, vinyl pools offer a balanced combination of features that make them a compelling choice for homeowners seeking a beautiful and functional aquatic retreat. When considering the vinyl vs. fiberglass vs. gunite debate, it’s evident that vinyl pools deserve a well-deserved spotlight for their timeless allure and practical advantages as one of the most popular choices in the Nation today.
Continue Reading
Imagine the sun gently warming your skin as you lounge by the shimmering water, the sound of laughter filling the air as your loved ones splash and play. A new Secard pool can be a luxurious addition to any home, providing endless hours of relaxation and entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just looking to cool off on a hot summer day, here are the top five ways to fully enjoy your new pool.
- Create a Relaxing Oasis: Transform your poolside into a serene retreat that beckons you to unwind. Set up comfortable loungers, umbrellas, and even a hammock to create cozy nooks where you can soak up the sun or enjoy a good book. Adding potted plants, fragrant flowers, and soft lighting will enhance the ambiance, creating a tranquil atmosphere for ultimate relaxation.
- Host Epic Pool Parties: Invite friends and family over for unforgettable poolside gatherings. Create a playlist of upbeat tunes that will set the mood and keep the energy high. Set up games like water volleyball or basketball, or add inflatable pool toys for extra fun. Consider providing floats, noodles, and other pool toys to ensure everyone has a blast. Don’t forget to stock up on refreshing beverages and delicious snacks to keep the party going.
- Fitness and Wellness: Make the most of your new pool by incorporating fitness and wellness activities. Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise that works your entire body. You can also try water aerobics, which are gentle on joints and provide a challenging workout. Install a pool side sauna or hot tub to unwind after a workout or for a relaxing soak under the stars. With your pool, staying active and prioritizing your well-being becomes a refreshing and enjoyable experience.
- Family Bonding Time: Create lasting memories with your loved ones through quality family time in the pool. Plan regular family swim sessions where you can play games, teach your kids how to swim, or simply have heartfelt conversations while floating in the water. Encourage water safety and ensure that everyone understands the rules and guidelines to make the experience safe and enjoyable for everyone. Your pool can become a hub for strengthening bonds and creating cherished moments.
- Nighttime Magic: Experience the enchantment of swimming under the stars with a beautifully lit pool. Install underwater LED lights or floating lanterns to illuminate the water, casting a mesmerizing glow. Set up a fire pit nearby, and enjoy a cozy evening gathering with loved ones. The combination of water, light, and the warmth of a crackling fire will create an atmosphere of pure magic, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting.
Conclusion: A new Secard pool brings with it a world of possibilities for relaxation, recreation, and family fun. By creating a serene oasis, hosting lively parties, prioritizing fitness and wellness, fostering family bonding, and enjoying the magic of nighttime swimming, you can make the most of your pool and create unforgettable memories. Embrace the joy of your new pool, and let it become a cherished sanctuary that brings happiness and tranquility into your life.
So grab your towel, put on your sunscreen, and splash into the excitement that awaits you in your own backyard oasis.
Continue Reading
One of the common questions that we receive from our customers here at Secard Pools & Spas throughout Southern California is what the difference between a salt pool and a chlorine pool is. A chlorine pool traditionally uses chlorine tablets to maintain chlorine levels in your swimming pool. A salt pool with a chlorine generator, generates chlorine from salt.
A common misconception is that a salt water pool doesn’t use chlorine at all. If you remember those science classes from school, salt is made up of NaCl or sodium chloride. The salt system separates the two and generates natural chlorine. The two combine again back into salt for the process to repeat again. The advantage here is that there are no additional chemicals added to your pool which can cause all the usual complaints about chlorine such as dry skin, strong odor, discoloration of hair and irritated eyes.
From our customers in LA County to the Inland Empire we have had customers complain about eye irritation, itchy skin and light hair turning green from chlorine. None of these common complaints are actually from chlorine at all. They come from the added chemicals used to produce chlorine into a tablet or powdered form. Because the salt system is generating pure chlorine, your pool water will feel softer on the skin and you won’t have the complaints about eye irritation or strong odor
Salt water pools and traditional chlorine pools both use chlorine to keep the pool clean. The chlorine made from salt water generators is a natural process; and therefore, it’s softer on the skin. It doesn’t matter whether you live in the High Desert or Riverside county, you’ll still love the feel of salt water pools.
Aside from the misconception that a salt water pool does not use chlorine, a salt system is a natural version of making the water softer on your skin without losing its sanitation quality. In California, most of us try to live our life the healthiest way possible. Adding a salt system to your pool will help you do just that. If you have more questions, we will be happy to help you at any one of our many retail stores.
Continue Reading
Don’t ask members of the Polar Bear Club how warm it has to be to swim. These winter swimmers plunge into the Atlantic Ocean every Sunday from November until April and revel in the chill. Swimming temperatures are a matter of preference — some people can tolerate much colder temperatures than others.
According to The United States Water Fitness Association, water temperatures for younger children and the elderly will generally need warmer temperatures ranging from 84 to 94 degrees Fahrenheit, while a comfortable pool temperature for adults is 85 to 89 degrees. If you are swimming for fitness, cooler temperatures of 78 to 84 degrees are recommended.
Furthermore, according to USA swimming the following are some general water temperature guidelines:
82 degree water (and lower)
- Competitive swim team training
- Adult aerobic lap swimming
- High intensity vertical water exercise
Note: The ideal air temperature for these activities is 78-80 degrees; never higher than 82 degrees. The more aerobic the activity, the lower the air temperature needs to be.
86 – 88 degree water
- Learn-to-swim
- Moderate vertical water exercise and water walking
- Younger age (10-under) swim training
- Low intensity lap swimming
- Synchronized swimming
- Recreational swimming
Note: The ideal air temperature for these activities is 82-84 degrees; never higher than 84 degrees and slightly lower is OK.
90 – 92 degree water
- Aquatic therapy
- AiChi
- Learn-to-swim for children
Note: The ideal air temperature for these activities is 84 degrees; never higher than 84 degrees and slightly lower is OK.
While there seems to be a very small range of optimal temperatures for swimming, aquatic exercise and aquatic therapy, the good news is that our bodies can adapt to temperatures quickly.
As far as warm water goes, the preparation for handling it isn’t as well researched, but it’s best to keep warm water for lounging around in.
If you’re looking for a perfect pool temperature, not too hot, not too cold, 77 – 82 degrees (25 – 28°C) may be the way to go according to most recreational swimmers.
Keep it cool for competitions
In most cases, pools should be comfortable, and the average swimmer will agree with this. However, there are times where swimmers aren’t interested in how the water feels. Instead, they’re interested in going as fast as humanly possible.
Competitive swimmers require different conditions than the average participant. According to USA Swimming, competitive swimmers are one of the few categories where lower water temps are preferred for best results. Lower water temperatures equal to or lesser than 82 degrees are generally cold enough for athletes competing or training. Any warmer, and swimmers may overheat in the water and their performance may suffer. Temperatures in the low 80s and high 70s are also recommended for adult aerobic lap swimming and any other high intensity water exercises.
What is the best water temp for beginners?
According to the United States Water Fitness Association, most pools across the country rest between 86 and 88 degrees. This is the temperature that most people find comfortable when first learning how to swim. Some age groups may benefit from slightly more targeted temperature ranges, such as 3- to 5-year-olds at 86 to 90 degrees and 6- to 13-year-olds at 84 to 86 degrees, but no serious injuries will result from a pool that hovers around the high 80s.
This temperature is also perfect for recreational swimming activities, synchronized swimming, diving, water walking and low-intensity lap swimming. You should also note that water and air temperature are two sides of the patron safety coin. Activities that cause swimmers to breathe harder require cooler air, and a pool between 86 and 88 degrees should never have air higher than 84 degrees around it. Slightly lower air temperatures don’t cause immediate problems either.
Higher temperatures are beneficial for Aquatic therapy
If cooler pools are better suited for high-intensity activities such as competitive swimming and athletic training, While pools should be never above 95 degrees, anywhere in the 90-92 degree range creates a comfortable, yet therapeutically warm environment for older swimmers or infants and toddlers learning how to swim or preforming aquatic therapy and exercise. Higher temperatures stimulate blood flow to the muscles and can reduce joint pain.
Find the sweet spot
Odds are that your pool will host more than just one of the above types of swimming activities. Is there a single temperature that you can set your pool at to keep every type of swimmer happy?
According to the Washington Post, that answer is yes – 85 degrees. Donny Wensinger, manager of Virginia’s Great Waves Waterpark, told the news source that 2014’s mild summer caused him to experiment with his temperatures. Above 85 degrees, Wensigner had packed parking lots, long lines and crowded pools. Below that number, the people disappeared.
We can help!
For help regulating your pool’s water temperature, contact or visit Secard Pools at one of our 7 locations for information on our heating options.
Continue Reading
Above-ground pools tend to be relatively inexpensive, can be located practically anywhere and are loads of fun. However, they, just like any other pool, must be cared for properly. Winter is especially tough on some pools, so certain precautions must be taken to get your pool through the cooler months.
Climate Makes a Difference
Here in the Golden State, we have a wide range of climatic conditions. Near the coast in the southern section, leaving your pool filled and operating (while following a few precautions) should not be a problem. Temperatures at or below freezing in Southern California are rare. Even when they occur, 32 degree cold snaps don’t last very long here. In other parts of the state you can see a plunge in temperatures that can last for a few days or even longer. In this article, we will discuss the best practices when winterizing your above ground pool in both climate scenarios.
What you will need:
- (4) 1 lb bags of shock
- 1 – 2 quarts of 3 month algaecide
- 3” chlorine tablets
- 1 chlorine floater
- Winter cover and air pillows
Mild Climate Winterizing
Even though the southern part of the state may see occasional cold temperatures. The infrequent occurrence of this should not be a concern for most pool owners. Taking the proper steps to protect the pool will keep everything in optimal condition and save a great deal of work for the owner when warmer weather returns. Preparing the pool for the off season consists of the following steps:
Step 1) Remove any debris from the surface of the water and brush loose any algae that may be adhering to the sides or bottom of the pool. Leaving debris in the pool over the winter will stain your liner.
Step 2) With the pump running, empty all 4 bags of shock into the skimmer. Be sure to do this slowly to avoid clogging the filtration equipment.
Step 3) Pour Algaecide directly into the pool evenly throughout. Follow the guidelines on the bottle to determine how much algaecide to use.
Step 4) Fill the floater with tablets and put it into the pool.
Step 5) Run your pump continuously for 24 hours.
Step 6) Let the pool settle and turn off the equipment for 24 hours.
Step 7) Vacuum your pool and thoroughly clean your filter grids or cartridge.
Step 8) Reduce your filtration time to 1 hour a day. Setting a timer is the best way to ensure regular filtration.
Step 9) Place the air pillows (or large beach balls) into your pool and install the winter cover. This will prevent water from pooling on top of the cover during the rainy season. Frequently checking the cover to ensure it is tightly secured to the pool will help your cover last.
- It is very important that you check your floater at least once a month and add tablets as needed. Not doing so can result in an algae filled pool upon opening in the spring. Additionally, if you plan on winterizing your pool for more than three months, we suggest that at the end of the third month you add another bottle of algaecide to your pool.
Cold and Freezing Climate Winterizing
In the colder parts of the region winterizing your pool essentially means putting it into hibernation. Steps need to be taken to prevent freezing water from damaging fittings, plumbing, equipment and the pool itself. Following these steps should prove to make reopening your pool in springtime a breeze.
Step 1) Remove any debris from the surface of the water and brush loose any algae that may be adhering to the sides of bottom of the pool. Leaving debris in the pool over the winter will stain your liner.
Step 2) With the pump running, empty all 4 bags of shock into the skimmer. Be sure to do this slowly to avoid clogging the filtration equipment.
Step 3) Pour Algaecide directly into the pool evenly throughout.
Step 4) Fill floater with tablets and put into pool.
Step 5) Run your pump for 24 hours.
Step 6) Let the pool settle and turn off the equipment for 24 hours.
Step 7) Vacuum your pool and thoroughly clean your filter grids or cartridge.
Step 8) Shut off the gate valves on your pool or cap the lines from inside and drain your pool below the skimmer and return. Empty the water from your pump, filter & hoses and store away for the winter. Also remove any ladders, toys or accessories.
Step 9) Place the air pillows (or large beach balls) into your pool and install the winter cover. This will prevent water from pooling on top of the cover during the rainy season. Frequently checking the cover to ensure it is tightly secured to the pool will help your cover last.
- It is very important that you check your floater at least once a month and add tablets as needed. Not doing so can result in an algae filled pool upon opening in the spring. Additionally, if you plan on winterizing your pool for more than three months, we suggest that at the end of the third month you add another bottle of algaecide to your pool.
Be sure and visit your local Secard Pools & Spas for all of your winterizing supplies or for advice on the procedures for your area.
Continue Reading
With the typical Islander pool construction, Secard Pools can provide service for virtually every aspect of your pool project. Whether it would be the acquisition of city permits, providing the required electrical to the pool equipment area, removal and/ or replacement of access fences, gates and walls, hardscape and concrete decks, we can accommodate any request.
However, some customers may opt to do some of these items themselves to save costs. For example, a customer can pull the permit themselves, hire their own electrician, provide the required access for our excavation equipment, or even dig their own pool.
Whether you’re the hands on type or just want to relax and watch us do what we do, we’ll work with you towards your vision. Our design experts can help you determine what, if any, items you wish to tackle yourself and our construction department will work with you to coordinate your project.
The Islander Pool Installation Process
Typical pool construction is completed in phases. The basic phases are excavation (digging), wall assembly (building) and liner installation. If additional features are part of the scope of work, these will be completed throughout the phase process.
Phase 0: Planning
Prior to commencement, we will contact and coordinate a service called Dig Alert. This service is required by any company doing excavation work such as your pool. Dig Alert will come out and mark any known public utilities. These utilities are usually marked where they enter your property, typically along the street. If an old or unknown utility was to interfere with the pool area and were undetected the utility can be relocated or the pool area can be redesigned, if necessary.
Phase 1: Digging
The first phase consists of the excavation of the pool and grading of the pool area. We include up to 6″ of grading in the pool area. Excavation usually can be completed in one day. Additional days may be required due to access issues or the use of smaller equipment. The access path must be clear and any fences and/ or gates should be removed to provide the access.
Our standard tractor (aka Bobcat) is 64″ (5′-4″) wide. Smaller 56″ (4′-8″) and even smaller 36″ (3′) version are available for narrower access conditions. Small steps or planters can be driven over that may be in the access path. Keep in mind that some damage may occur to existing concrete, pavers, tile, etc. that are in the access path that has to be driven over. Grass will get damaged when it’s in the access path but is typically easily replaced with seed or sod.
Phase 2: Pool Building
After excavation, heavy equipment will no longer be required into the pool area. Everything else is brought in by hand and the largest piece of equipment that will be used is a wheel barrel. The wall assembly consists of the building of the pool structure with our prefabricated wall panels. While the footings are prepped for the inspection and left empty, they will later be filled with concrete upon the inspector’s approval. The plumbing trenches are also inspected and are filled in upon approval.
During this phase, the pool equipment is installed in your desired location and according to the plans that have been developed for the pool site. If the customer is providing the electrical, it can be completed at this time. After the equipment is installed, it is clear where the electrical needs to be provided.
Phase 3: Vinyl Liner Installation
Liner installation is the final phase. The pool floor is prepared with a sand or a hard bottom (a special hard shell) before the liner is put in place. This treatment provides a smooth surface on the pool floor, filling any voids that are found in the excavated area. When the liner is installed, the pool is filled with water immediately. Filling the pool may take 1-2 days, depending on water pressure. Once the pool is full, we will complete a detail process to finish off all aspects of the pool.
As the phases are to be completed, our construction office will call to schedule the various site visits well in advance. Additionally, we will always call you the day before a scheduled visit to confirm an arrival time and remind you of the visit. You don’t have to be home for any of these visits unless we advise you otherwise. It is requested that access to the pool area, an electrical outlet and a water source is provided and additionally any pets are put away for the safety of them and our crew. If a phase payment is due, you will be notified by the construction office in advance. Payments can be made to the crew, to your sales office, or with a credit card kept on file.
Installing a pool can be a fun process as you watch your dream back yard take shape and we are here to work through it with you. We put our best foot forward on every project and make every attempt to keep our customers informed and engaged in the process.
Remember: The more involved and accessible the customer (you) is, the smoother things typically go.
Continue Reading
So you’re ready to reward yourself with a little slice of luxury. You want that portable spa or pool that you and the family have been eyeing for a long time. The big box stores and membership wharehouses have it on sale, now is the time to strike. They have the purchasing power and now have it down to where it’s easily within reach. Before you pack up and make the trip down to their huge facility, slow down and look at what you may — or may not — be getting for your investment.
Who’s The Expert?
- When you go to select your model, you’re sure to have some questions. A big box store often has revolving door issues with various departments. If Don or Donna is employed in that particular department, just how much do they know about the product you are about to invest your hard-earned money into?
- With the box store, you may have spoken to one person on Tuesday who gave you information. On Friday, they’re off and you’re speaking with someone else. Realistically, neither Don nor Donna may be there and your salesperson has been pulled from the curtain and blinds or paint department to help you with your purchase. Even on a good day, how much training has the salesperson had. How long have they worked in that department?
- When it’s delivered, you want it as near as possible to the area where it will be permanently located. The box stores have a clear delivery policy. You can choose from curbside delivery or delivery at curbside. From there, you’re on your own.
- Was the warranty information explained thoroughly? Is there a warranty after it’s delivered? If the merchandise is flawed, the box stores do not have service technicians to come to your home.
- Who installs your prized possession? If it becomes damaged during installation, what recourse do you have? Who takes ownership of the problem? You?
Certified Experts
- Big box stores thrive and survive on sales. Secard Pools thrives on customer relationships. When you’re a customer instead of a sale, the experience can change — dramatically.
- Pricing from your local big box store can sometimes be a misconceived value. While you may be able to save on cereal or saw blades, portable pools and spas are not their forte. Not only are the products from Secard Pools far more superior, you may be surprised to know that they cannot beat our prices.
- You can expect your salesperson at the local Secard Pools to be knowledgeable. This is what they do; this is their area of expertise. They don’t sell paint, blinds or storm doors. Their training is from the factory and years of experience. They are proud of their product and they want you to know all about it.
- With proper access, delivery is made to your specifications. Your spa or pool comes to your home and is placed where you want it. A home visit for a problem is simply a call away.
- Secard Pools can easily provide installation. We know the proper installation methods and, should there be a problem, it becomes our problem, not yours.
- At Secard Pools, we explain and support all aspects of warranties that apply. Your protection extends past the sale. Secard Pools takes ownership of our product and your satisfaction.
- Any water chemistry issues can be handled by your local Secard Pools retail location. Bring a water sample to us for free analysis and a quick resolution of your problem. The box store is not equipped to handle such issues.
Would you rather be a customer or a sale? At Secard Pools, a customer is a long-term agreement between us and you. A sale is a short-term relationship and something big box stores thrive on. Once you’re gone, their only concern is the next sale.
Photo credit Patrick Hoesly
Continue Reading
When talking about the “mil” or “guage” of vinyl pool liners, you should first get a decent understanding of what these terms actually mean. The most common term for vinyl, “mil” (not to be confused with millimeter) is a unit of measurement equal to one thousandth of an inch. Therefore, a 20 mil liner thickness is equal to 20 thousandths of an inch. The term “gauge” (not to be confused with mil), is a bit more of a moving target. See, multiple industries measure items such as wire, shotgun barrels, sheet metal, photographic film and hypodermic needles by their gauge. This can be very confusing as in a case like shotgun barrels where the smaller the gauge, the larger the barrel. This is not the case when it comes to vinyl pool liners where the higher the gauge, the thicker the material.
When shopping for pool liners, it is very important that you are aware that gauge is not equal to mil. Some manufactures or retailers like to offer their liners in terms of gauges because they sound thicker than a true mil. To be technical, a 30 mil liner is equivalent to 0.0300 inches. A 30 gauge liner is equivalent to 0.0260 inches (26 mil). Therefore, if you see a liner advertised at 35 gauge, it is truly a 30 mil liner. To avoid this confusion, always make sure and purchase from a company that advertises in mil, versus gauge.
To give some additional perspective, here is the mil of some everyday items:
| Item | Thickness (in mils) |
| Standard sheet of paper | 10 mil |
| Dime | 49 mil |
| Human hair | 2 mil |
When deciding what’s best between the thicknesses of vinyl pool liners for in ground pools, a variety of factors should be considered. Such as the location of the pool in relation to sun exposure, how much time the pool will spend covered and the type of surface the liner will be laid on.
If the pool will experience longer exposure to direct sunlight throughout the year or when you’re dealing with a rougher surface material, such as a concrete or a sand and concrete mixture, the appropriate, preferred mil of vinyl pool liner would be the 28-30 mil. Although thicker material will typically cost you about 5 – 10% more, it is 29 – 32% thicker than 20 mil, and will no doubt provide adequate thickness and protection for its purpose.
With that being said, all pool liner material, no matter the thickness will boast the smooth nature vinyl is famous for, come in an array of patterns to choose from, and in most cases, carry the same warranty.
Continue Reading
How often do you come across helpful information that will keep more money in your pocket? In this day and age it seems we all need to watch our budgets with a sharper eye for ways to reduce expenses and our home’s maintenance costs. What if your pool could automatically sanitize and balance itself, all while putting a few bucks in your pocket and saving mother nature all at the same time?
Cooling off in your swimming pool after work, doing a few laps to unwind, or relaxing in your spa with your family and friends are a few of the advantages of owning a pool or hot tub. Pool maintenance costs can add up quickly if you use conventional pool maintenance practices which rely on chlorine to keep the water clean. Freshwater pools need water testing weekly with chlorine added regularly for sanitary pool conditions and also to prevent algae. Chlorine is expensive and many find it harsh on their skin when used in the traditional freshwater pool. A traditional pool also requires quite an investment in time to maintain the proper chlorine level and to get the pool’s water to chemically balance.
You can ensure the pool’s maintenance is efficiently taken care of by automating your pool with a salt chlorinating system. It not only reduces your chemically produced chlorine use to zero, reduces costs but will also make your pool’s water feel good on your skin.
Salt chlorination system installation
Installation of the system is quick and easy and does not replace any of your existing pool equipment. After a simple plumbing modification, just add the correct amount of salt and the chlorinating system does the rest. It works by first adding salt to your pool’s water at the rate of 3500 ppm salt content (equivalent to the salt content of the human body). The salinated water then goes through the chlorinating system, which uses electrolysis to break down the salt. The chemical reaction produces a chlorine gas. This chlorine gas prevents algae and purifies the water of your pool or spa. Chloramines are what give traditional pools the terrible smell and red, burning eyes. The electrolytic process oxidizes, or “burns off” these chloramines leaving your pool water clean, pure and luxuriously soft.
Salt doesn’t evaporate like chlorine does which is where the savings come in. Constantly adding chemicals is a thing of the past. No more mixing, measuring and hassling with harsh chlorine again. The savings are significant financially as well as freeing up the chunks of time you won’t be spending maintaining your pool. Say goodbye to itchy skin, strong chemical odors, faded bathing suits and red eyes forever.
Save money and go green
If saving the planet is your forte, you’re on the right track. A salt chlorination system will help you “go green” without your pool going “green”. Limiting the transportation to and from the pool store, reducing the introduction of harsh chemicals into the environment from your pool and cutting out the waste from chlorine packaging are all ways to reduce your carbon footprint.
Now there’s an easier, more efficient and cost effective way to maintain your home pool or spa. Keep your pool’s water sparkling clean, fresh and crystal clear at all times. An automatic chlorinating system is a wise choice for easier maintenance at a lower cost to you. It’s amazing what a little salt can do!
Continue Reading
When deciding on what type of in ground pool to install, it is essential to do the proper research before buying. The decision between vinyl, fiberglass or gunite (otherwise known as plaster) for in ground pool selection generally comes to down to factors such as installation costs, how long it will take to install, overall maintenance, and appearance. Everyone’s tastes are different but when it comes to cost and upkeep, vinyl is the clear winner. There’s no reason to be afraid of vinyl as this is not a new technology. Vinyl liner pools may be new to you, but they are certainly not new to Secard Pools.
Plaster pools do offer the most options in terms of design. Depending on your budget, you can design a plaster pool that is one of the most visually-pleasing spaces in your backyard, including those that feature grottos, rock slides, a waterfall or are lagoon-like in appearance. The shape of the pool itself, such as assorted asymmetrical designs, is another design option. Though asymmetrical shapes and water features are a possibility for vinyl pools as well, you are typically very limited when it comes to your options with fiberglass pool shapes and sizes.
Unlike vinyl pools, fiberglass and plaster pools are very expensive to install. The installation costs for a vinyl pool are about $11,000 to $25,000, while installing a plaster pool could cost you anywhere from $35,000 to a staggering $150,000 and fiberglass pools ranging from $20,000 to $40,000. The costs of installing a plaster pool could be even higher depending on how intricate your design plan is.
Not only are vinyl pools less expensive to install, they are also much quicker to install! Adding a vinyl pool to your property generally takes a few weeks, while installing a plaster pool can take anywhere from two to four months. Fiberglass pools tend to be on the shorter end of the scale for installation because you typically have to choose from a shell configuration that the installer has in stock.
While you generally have to replace your vinyl pool liner every 10 years, it is still much less expensive than resurfacing a plaster or fiberglass pool which needs to be done every 10 to 15 years. Additionally, vinyl pool liners and fiberglass shells are resistant to staining while the porous nature of a plaster design makes staining a frequent possibility. Plaster pools require more pool chemicals to keep the pool clean and stain-free. Vinyl pool liners and fiberglass shells are not only stain-resistant but are also algae-resistant. Many pool liners now feature thicker liners that are durable against wear and tear. You will therefore save money on pool chemicals and other maintenance costs if you choose a vinyl liner or fiberglass pool.
If water features are important to your overall pool design, note that such features are now a possibility with all three pool types, though they were previously features for plaster pools only. Browse pool packages to find water features and other design items that work for your vision.
It’s hard to argue with the overwhelming pros of vinyl liner pool design as it costs relatively little to install, takes only a short time to install, is easy to maintain, and offers many of the same features as a plaster pool! If you want a pool for your property but don’t have hours upon hours to dedicate to the scrubbing of algae and other time-
consuming pool maintenance issues, then vinyl liner pools are the optimal design for you.
Take a look at the following chart comparison for the visual touchy-feely:
| Compare Features | Vinyl | Fiberglass | Plaster |
|---|---|---|---|
| Affordable |  |
 |
|
| Short installation time | |
 |
|
| City or county permits required | |
|
|
| Tractor access required | |
|
|
| No crane access required | |
|
|
| Customizable shape | |
|
|
| Customizable depth | |
|
|
| Unlimited shapes and sizes | |
|
|
| Can withstand an earthquake | |
|
|
| Smooth surface | |
|
|
| No acid washing required | |
|
|
| Heater friendly | |
|
|
| Salt water friendly | |
|
|
| Low resurface cost | |
|
|
| Easy to clean | |
|
|
| Easy to repair | |
|
|
Continue Reading
