How a Pool Builder Can Help With Pool Maintenance Planning
“‘Owning a pool would be fun,’ they said,” you grumble to yourself, fishing leaves out of the water for the fourth time this week. Sure, you’ve been the talk of the town with your impromptu barbecues, and you’ve spent plenty of cozy evenings floating along with family.
However, when you pictured pool ownership, it didn’t look like spending your Saturdays scrubbing algae off your expensive tiles.
The good news is that pool ownership doesn’t have to feel like a chore; you just need to hire a thoughtful pool builder who knows how to design a custom pool that can practically take care of itself. Here’s how they can free you from the never-ending maintenance and help you take back your weekends before they even pour the concrete.
They Design for Better Circulation
Having a clean pool isn’t just about the chemicals. Smart and efficient pool design includes how the chemicals get where they need to go. This means planning for circulation because, without flowing water, your pool can feel like one big puddle.
Your pool builder might suggest return jets. These create an invisible current that constantly pushes water throughout the entire pool, which means that even the hard-to-reach spots, like the steps or corners, get refreshed just as often as the center.
They Know How to Leverage the Best Equipment
Gone are the days of complicated (and loud) pool pumps and complex chemistry sets. Modern pool technology gives pool owners their precious time back, so they can use it to enjoy their pool.
Pool builders are well aware of the options on the market. But more importantly, they know enough about them to help you decide which works best for your lifestyle.
Saltwater pools are an excellent example of refined “automation.” It’s not rocket science, but it is science. The salt automatically generates chlorine to clean your pool. You might add a few chemicals to help balance out the pH or eliminate algae. But your general pool cleaning is mostly taken care of just by opting for a saltwater pool.
Variable speed pumps are also on every pool owner’s wish list. These run quietly in the background 24/7, keeping the water moving but at a low speed. The result is similar to using return jets; it continuously cleans and polishes the water much more efficiently, so you’ll spend less on your energy bills and have a cleaner pool.
The Modern Pool Owner
You can already do just about everything on your smartphone, so why not operate your pool with automation and smart control systems? There’s a world where you leave work, turn your pool heater on remotely, and have a warm, relaxing dip ready for you when you get home.
However, this modern automation goes beyond convenience. These apps can help you keep track of cleaning schedules, pool chemical balances, and just about anything else you need (or want) to know about your pool. A professional pool builder can guide you through these tools so you know exactly how to use them.
Self-Cleaning Systems
If there’s one thing that jumps to mind for low-maintenance pool maintenance, it’s the rise of the in-floor cleaning systems. These are nozzles built into the pool floor that pop up to sweep debris toward a drain. It’s a self-cleaning pool that operates underwater, one that you can put on a schedule using your smart control system!
Robotic cleaners are also a popular option, and the newer generations are more sophisticated than ever. These shuffle over every inch of your pool walls and floor, scrubbing as they go. They’re a lot more self-explanatory and are easy to implement even after your build.
Deciding between these options means having a conversation with your pool builder early on so you have the proper plumbing and electrical you need.
They Offer Smart Interior Finishes
The texture of the inside of your pool matters a lot. It’s not just about looks but maintenance, too. Old-school plaster is a go-to interior finish for many pool builds. It’s affordable, so first-time pool owners often default to it, hoping to use their budget for other, more exciting things.
However, it’s rough and porous, making it an ideal home for algae and dirt, which means that even if you aren’t paying for it now with cash, you’ll certainly be paying for it later with elbow grease.
Expert pool builders know better than to suggest this finish if you don’t want to deal with extra maintenance. Instead, they’ll guide you toward pebble or aggregate finishes.
These finishes are arguably more visually striking, but they’re also dense and smooth. This notable lack of crags makes it much harder for dirt and algae to cling to your pool. These might seem like small choices as you make them during the design phase. Yet it’s the combination of many of these decisions that pay off and give you your time back.
They Account for Landscaping, Enclosures, and Safety Features
Maintenance includes caring for the area around your pool. Screen enclosures (or “cages”) are common, particularly if you’re worried about pool maintenance. These enclosures keep bugs and leaves out, while also providing a little extra protection against UV rays, helping your chlorine last longer.
A pool builder will also prioritize safety, something every homeowner cares deeply about but often forgets when they’re entranced by tanning ledges and fire bowls. Your builder will make sure your project adheres to the strictest safety standards, both by your standards and the local government’s.
Partner with a Skilled Pool Builder So You Can Have a Less Stressful Pool Maintenance Routine
Your new pool shouldn’t feel like a second job. Working with a pool builder who understands the realities of day-to-day pool ownership is one of the best ways to reclaim your free time and get back to enjoying your pool and your life.
Reach out to our team at Tampa Bay Pools to learn more about your low-maintenance pool building options and schedule an appointment with a professional.