Many people believe that “salt pools” are magically chlorine-free. This is common misconception.

How Salt Pools Work:

• Salt Systems: Salt pools utilize a salt chlorinator, a device that converts salt (sodium chloride) into chlorine through electrolysis.
• Chlorine Production: The salt chlorinator essentially creates chlorine within the pool itself.
• Sanitization: This generated chlorine effectively sanitizes the water, just like traditional chloirne pools that use chlorine tablets or liquid chlorine.

Why Choose a Salt System?

• Skin and Eye Comfort: Salt systems often produce a gentler, more “natural” form of chlorine, which can be less irritating to the skin and eyes.
• Reduced Chemical Handling: They typically requre less frequent and less hard cehmical additions compared to traditional chlorine pools.

Clearing Up the Confusion:

It’s important to understand, salt pools are still chlorine pools. The salt system simply produces the
chlorine in the water. Maintenance is still necessary. Salt pools require regular monitoring and
adjustments to maintain proper water chemistry and balance.

Conclusion:

While salt systems offer potential benefits like reduced chemical handling
and gentler chlorine, it’s crucial to remember that they still rely on chlorine
for sanitization.

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post Salt Pools: They’re Still Chlorine Pools appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

What is an Automatic Pool Cover?

An automatic pool cover is a retractable safety cover that provides a secure
barrier over your swimming pool when not in use. It operates with a simple
switch, offering convenience and peace of mind.

Pros:

• Enhanced Safety: Significany reduces the risk of accdiental drownings by preventing unauthorized access to the pool.
• Improved Water Quality: Minimizes the entry of debris like leaves, dirt, and pollen, keeping the pool cleaner and requiring less frequent chemical treatments.
• Increased Energy Efficiency: helps retain heat in the water, allowing for an extended swimming season.
• Reduced Water Evaporation: Significanty minimizes water loss due to evaportaion, leading to lower water bills.
• Chemical Savings: Protects chemicals from the sun’s degradation, reducing the need for frequent chemical additions and potentially extending the lifespan of your pool equipment.
• Convenience: Easily operated with a simple swtich, making it effortless to secure the pool when not in use.
• Peace of Mind: Provides reassurance and reduces anxiety about potential pool accidents.
• Potential Zoning Benefits: In some areas, an automatic cover may help meet local zoning requirements and potentially elimatinate the need for a full-height fence.

Cons:

• High Initial Cost: Automatic pool covers are a significant investment.
• Regular Maintenance: Requires regualr cleaning and conditioning to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Cover Pump Necessity: A cover pump is essential to remove rainwater from the cover, preventing damage, and should be replaced on top of the cover, every single time it is closed.
• Potential for Water Feature Issues: If your pool has water features, additional safeguards like automation and a revolution counter are crucial to prevent water from accumulating on the cover.
• Long-Term Durability: The long-term durability and availability of replacement parts from the original manuacturer can be a concern.

Conclusion:
An automatic pool cover offers significant safety, convenience, and energy-
efficiency benefits. However, it’s crucial to carefully weigh the initial cost,
maintenance requirements, and potential long-term considerations before
making a decision.

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post Pros and Cons of an Automatic Pool Cover: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

Winter has arrived, and with it, concerns about your pool’s well-being.
Snowfall and frigid temperatures often lead to questions like: “Will the snow
damage my auto cover?” or “Is the ice going to harm my pool?”

At Sanctuary Pools, we understand these anxieties. When you choose us
for pool closing, you can rest assured that your pool, cover, and equipment
are in expert hands.

Why Lowering Water Levels is Detrimental

One common practice we strongly discourage is lowering the water level in
your pool. This can disrupt water chemistry and severely compromise your
safety cover’s integrity. And remember, we always tell our pool owners to
use extreme caution when lowering the water in your fiberglass pool as
high ground water levels can force your entire pool out of the ground!!

Safety Covers Rely on Water Support: All safety covers, especially
automatic ones, depend on the water’s support. The weight of snow, ice, or
even a person is distributed across the water surface, preventing the cover
from pulling out of its tracks or causing more serious damage.

Our Expert Closing Procedure

At Sanctuary Pools, we prioritize the safety and protection of your pool
components:
Thorough Line Blowing: We utilize specialized equipment to blow out all
pool lines and equipment, followed by careful plugging to prevent water
backflow. This eliminates the need for water level reductions, which can be
risky in freezing temperatures.
Skimmer Protection: We employ a skimmer gizmo to safeguard your
skimmer from ice damage. This prevents the need for potentially harmful
practices like lowering water levels and adding antifreeze.

Enjoy a Worry-Free Winter

With Sanctuary Pools, you can enjoy a peaceful winter knowing your pool
is properly winterized. Simply ensure your cover pump is running, and start
dreaming of warm summer days by the pool!

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post Your Pool in the Winter: A Worry-Free Guide appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

The pool in question, a 14×30 vinyl liner pool, had seen better days. Its equipment pad was a mix of various brands—a Hayward pump and filter, a Jandy heater, and a Jacuzzi chlorinator. My supplier chuckled and called it a “Frankenstein pad,” and I couldn’t help but laugh. But as I learned, this setup is more common than you might think.

How Does a “Frankenstein Pad” Happen?

Over the years, as pieces of equipment fail, they are often replaced with whatever brand the service company happens to represent at the time. This practice leads to a patchwork of different brands cobbled together, much like Frankenstein’s monster.

While this approach might work for older pools needing maintenance, it’s not ideal for new pools. Why? When you stick with a single brand, like the Pentair products we offer, you benefit from longer warranties—three years for a complete setup versus just one year for individual parts when brands are mixed.

Why Would Builders Mix Brands?

The answer is simple: cost. Some builders may choose to mix and match brands to save a few hundred dollars. However, this short-term saving could lead to long-term headaches, including mismatched components that might not work optimally together or the hassle of managing multiple warranties.

The Sanctuary Pools Promise

Don’t settle for a piecemeal approach to your pool equipment. At Sanctuary Pools, we ensure you get the best equipment pad money can buy, complete with cohesive functionality and peace of mind. Choose us, and enjoy the confidence that comes with a streamlined, high-quality setup.

Avoid the nightmare of a “Frankenstein” equipment pad—opt for quality and reliability with Sanctuary Pools. Your future self will thank you!

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post Avoid the “Frankenstein” Pool Pad Dilemma appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

In this post, we’ll share some of the details of the process we used and how we overcame the obstacles to ensure a fast and reliable installation. These tips are valuable for anyone considering a pool installation, especially if you have limited backyard space.

1) Layout and Drone Pictures.

One of the key elements in a successful pool installation project is planning. We started by creating a drawing of the backyard to scale, using a template and drone pictures. This allowed us to visualize the layout of the pool, where to dig, and where to pour concrete. We found that having a clear plan made the entire project run more smoothly and kept everyone on the same page.

2) Minimum 8ft Opening.

To install a fiberglass pool, an opening of at least 8ft is required. If your backyard can’t accommodate this, other methods for pool installation might be a better fit. We were lucky in this project to have the minimum opening, so we were able to proceed with our standard fiberglass pool installation process.

3) Smaller Excavator.

To accommodate the smaller backyard, we rented a smaller excavator to dig for the pool shell. This allowed us to maneuver the equipment in tight spaces where a larger excavator wouldn’t be able to reach. It did take a bit longer, due to the smaller bucket size, but in the end, it was worth the extra time to have a successful installation.

4) Hauling Away Access Dirt.

To keep the site clean and organized, we hauled away all access dirt we didn’t need. This kept the backyard manageable and made it easier for our crew to get in and maneuver the site. A cluttered worksite can lead to delays and even accidents, so we made it a priority to keep the area as tidy as possible.

5) Setting Up Equipment and Wiring.

Setting up the equipment and plumbing for the pool took place the day after it was set. This allowed electricians to come in a week later to wire everything and get the inspection turned in. Once the inspection passed, we were able to pour concrete on top of the pool shell. This created the foundation for the rest of the pool.

6) Line Pump for Concrete.

When we poured the deck, we hired a line pump company to make sure we had a smooth and even distribution of the concrete. This was an extra step, but it ensured that the deck looked great, and no corners were cut in the process.

7) Final Grading.

Once we were done with the concrete pour, the last step was final grading. This was the end of the project, and we walked away proud of the work we did. The clients were happy, and the pool looked amazing in their backyard.

Conclusion:

When it comes to installing a swimming pool in a tight backyard, it may seem like the task can be daunting. But with the right planning, equipment, and process, we can create an oasis even in smaller spaces. By working with professionals who know the ins and outs of fiberglass pool installation, you can have a beautiful backyard without having to worry about the details.

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post How We Completed a Fiberglass Pool Installation in a Small Backyard appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

Having a pool in your backyard is a dream come true, but what if you have a small backyard? Fear not, there are pool options that will fit your space and give you that perfect refreshing oasis. In this post, we’re going to take a look at some of the best pool shapes for small backyards. Whether you’re looking for a traditional rectangular shape or something more unique, we’ve got you covered

The Vision

The first pool on our list is The Vision. This pool shape is perfect for small backyards and can add a touch of elegance to any backyard. The rectangular shape allows for easy integration into any design scheme and has plenty of space for swimmers. The Vision is perfect for those looking for a classic pool shape

The Freedom

The Freedom is another great option for small backyards. This pool shape features subtle curves that give it a unique look. It’s perfect for those who want a little more character in their pool design. The Freedom is great for swimming laps or lounging around with friends.

The Bliss

The Bliss is a sleek and modern pool shape that’s perfect for small backyards. This pool has a unique shape that allows for multiple uses, including swimming laps and relaxing. It’s great for those who want a pool that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The Inspiration

The Inspiration is a great pool shape for those who want something truly unique. It’s a geometrically shaped pool that can be customized to fit any backyard. This option is perfect for homeowners who want a pool that complements the overall design of their home.

Vinyl Liner Pool

If you’re looking for a more customizable option, a vinyl liner pool may be the right choice for you. These pools come in an endless array of shapes and sizes, so you can create a pool that fits perfectly in your small backyard. The vinyl liner also allows for more customization options, including various colors and patterns.

Gunite Pool

A gunite pool is perfect for those who want a custom pool shape that’s completely unique. Gunite pools are made from concrete and can be shaped to fit any design scheme. They’re great for those who want a pool that’s truly one of a kind.

Conclusion:

No matter what your small backyard pool needs may be, there’s a pool shape that’s perfect for you. From classic rectangular shapes to unique custom options, the pool possibilities are endless. We hope this post has helped you narrow down your choices and gives you a better idea of what’s out there. So, get ready to create your own backyard oasis with the perfect pool shape!

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post The Best Pool Shapes for Small Backyards appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

When it comes to designing your backyard pool area, the pool decking options you choose can make all the difference in terms of safety, functionality, and beauty. The right pool decking materials not only enhance the look of your pool but also provide a safe and comfortable surface for your family and friends to enjoy. With a variety of materials available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your home. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best pool decking options you can consider.

1) Concrete

Concrete is a classic pool decking material that offers both durability and affordability. It is a low-maintenance option, making it ideal for busy families. Concrete pool decking is available in a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes, making it versatile for any pool style. The surface of the concrete can also be textured or stamped to add character and style to your pool area.

2) Pavers

Pavers are another popular pool decking option that offers a high-end look while still being functional and durable. They come in a wide range of materials, including natural stone, brick, and concrete pavers. Pavers are easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them a great choice for homeowners with busy lifestyles. They are also available in various colors and styles, allowing you to customize the look of your pool area.

3) Travertine

Travertine is a natural stone material that is perfect for pool decking as it’s slip-resistant and cool to the touch, making it an excellent choice for hot summer days. It is a luxurious and stylish option that adds value to your home. Travertine pool decking comes in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to create a unique and beautiful pool area.

4) Flagstone

Flagstone is a natural stone material that offers a unique and rustic look to your pool area. It comes in various colors and shapes, making it a versatile choice for any style of pool. Flagstone is slip-resistant and requires minimal maintenance, making it an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a natural, low-maintenance option.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right pool decking material is essential in creating a safe, functional, and beautiful pool area. With a variety of materials available, it can be challenging to choose the perfect one for your home. Consider your lifestyle, budget, and design preferences when selecting the ideal pool decking option. Whether you opt for concrete, pavers, travertine, or flagstone, each material offers its unique benefits to enhance the look and functionality of your pool area. Make an informed decision and enjoy your pool to the fullest.

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post Choosing the Best Pool Decking Options for Your Home appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

Owning a swimming pool in your backyard can bring numerous benefits to your lifestyle and health. It is also an excellent way to increase the value of your home. Although buying a swimming pool can mean a significant investment in the short term, it can pay off big in the long run. In this blog post, we will highlight the many ways a swimming pool can increase the value of your home.

Attract More Buyers

A swimming pool can be a unique selling point when it comes to attracting potential buyers to your property. Many families are looking for homes that come with a backyard oasis that provides a place to relax, cool off, and entertain guests. A well-maintained swimming pool can appeal to buyers looking for a home that offers luxury and comfort. Hence, a swimming pool can attract a larger pool of buyers and increase your chances of getting a better price for your home.

Impact on Resale Value

The increase in your home’s resale value largely depends on the location, design, and type of swimming pool you have. In some areas, a swimming pool may not provide more value, but in others, it can significantly impact your home’s resale value. An in-ground swimming pool is generally more desirable and adds more value than an above-ground pool. Additionally, a well-designed and well-maintained pool can increase your home’s value by up to 8 percent.

Create the Perfect Landscape

By installing a swimming pool, you can also customize or improve the look of your backyard landscape. In addition to the pool itself, this means incorporating features like decking, lighting, and landscaping. A well-designed swimming pool and backyard create an outdoor oasis that enhances the overall appeal of your property.

Increase Your Enjoyment and Lifestyle

While the financial benefits of a swimming pool are obvious, there are also many lifestyle benefits. Owning a pool can increase your overall enjoyment of your home. You can enjoy swimming, water sports, and other fun activities with your family and friends. It can also enhance your lifestyle, providing a place for relaxation and entertainment.

Saves You Money in the Long Run

Owning a swimming pool increases the value of your home, but it can also save you money in the long run. By choosing to stay at home for activities like exercise or entertaining guests, you can save money on costly memberships. Additionally, you can save money by not having to spend your leisure time traveling to public pools or recreational centers.

Conclusion:

In summary, owning a swimming pool can be an excellent investment that can increase the value of your home. It attracts more buyers, increases your home’s resale value, creates the perfect landscape, enhances your enjoyment and lifestyle, and even saves you money in the long run. However, remember that ensuring the safety, maintenance, and upkeep of your swimming pool is crucial if you want to increase your home’s value. As a pool owner, you should take care of your swimming pool to enjoy the benefits it has to offer.

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post How a Swimming Pool Increases the Value of Your Home appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

Fall is here, and now is the perfect time to learn how to take care of your pool equipment! A clean pool is essential to ensuring that you and your loved ones have a safe and enjoyable time in the water. But just like any other aspect of home maintenance, keeping your pool clean requires regular attention and proper care. One of the most critical components of pool maintenance is cleaning your pool filters. In this blog post, we’ll explore why maintaining clean pool filters is crucial to the health and longevity of your pool.

1) A Clean Pool Requires Clean Filters

Unless you are vigilant about keeping your pool sparkling clean by skimming debris, using pool vacuums, and brushing the walls and tiles, it is virtually impossible to keep the water clear and algae-free. A pool filter is essential to removing impurities such as dirt, oil, leaves, and bugs that your pool’s skimmer and vacuum cannot capture. Over time, the filters become clogged with debris and require cleaning to restore their effectiveness. Regular cleaning of pool filters is the key to ensuring that your pool water remains clean and clear throughout the swimming season

2) It’s Important for Your Plumbing System

Let’s face it: buying a new pool pump or salt cell isn’t cheap. In fact, properly maintaining your pool can often be more affordable than constantly replacing pool equipment. The filter system is the engine of your pool’s water supply system. An overloaded filter puts a strain on the entire plumbing system. The longer you neglect cleaning your pool filters, the harder your pool pump and salt cell will have to work, leading to unnecessary wear and strain on these expensive components.

3) Balance of Your Water Matters

If your filter becomes too full, it can’t remove impurities from the water efficiently. The salt cell will not run correctly, leading to an increased need for chlorine and other chemicals. You can spend more money on extra chemicals, or you can clean the pool filters. Well-maintained filters allow filtration systems to run efficiently, keep the water pH level, and buffer at optimal levels. You save time and money by regularly cleaning your pool filters.

4) Better Recreational Water

When you maintain your pool filters, you’ll enjoy more than a safe pool. Your water will be clearer, reducing cloudiness that ruins its appearance. Clean water stimulates a refreshed swimmers’ environment as less dirt and debris circulate through the pool. Water clarity makes it easy to keep track of the swimmers at all times. Kids love swimming in a clean pool. Parents will enjoy the peace of mind that comes from a safer swimming environment.

5) Longevity of Pool Equipment

Proper maintenance is a cheaper route to extend the lifetime of your pool equipment. Allowing your filters to run with debris in them means your pool motors work harder, resulting in pump burnouts. The more debris, the more the pool pump has to work, without proper maintenance reducing pool equipment lifespans. Keep your pool and cleaner to get more out of your investment over time to enjoy quality pool fun.

Conclusion:

Keeping your pool in optimal condition requires regular attention and proper maintenance, and cleaning your pool filters is a vital aspect of that maintenance. Clean pool filters ensure that your pool water is healthy, clear, and enjoyable for everyone, and they keep your entire pool plumbing system running smoothly. By keeping your pool filters clean, you can save money on costly repairs and replacement equipment and enjoy a pool that remains in top condition for years to come. So take a few minutes each week to check and clean your pool filters and make every swim a safe and enjoyable experience.

If you don’t have the time or expertise to maintain your pool yourself, Sanctuary Pools is here to help with our pool servicing options. Don’t wait until the next pool season to start taking care of your pool! 

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post The Importance of Cleaning Your Pool Filters appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.

Designing and installing a pool in your backyard can be a dream come true for many homeowners. However, during the construction process, things can get a bit complicated and unexpected changes can arise. A change order is a document used to request changes in the scope of work, timelines and budget of an ongoing project. In this blog post, we will discuss how a change order can impact the timeline of your pool installation.

Scope of Work

The scope of work is written based on the conversations between the homeowner and the pool construction company. Once both parties have agreed on the scope of work, a timeline is created to ensure the project stays on track. This timeline includes the different stages of construction, such as excavation, installation of pool equipment, decking, landscaping, and so on. This timeline is created to help keep everything on track.

Scheduling

However, unforeseen circumstances such as weather, delayed permits, or issues with materials can cause a delay in the project. In these cases, a change order may be necessary to keep the project on track. A change order is initiated when the homeowner wants to make changes to the scope of work, resulting in an alteration to the budget and timeline. Depending on the scope of the change, it can have a significant impact on the entire project schedule.

It is important to note that a change order affects all areas of schedule, scope, and budget. When a change is approved through the change order process by both parties, it will have a domino effect on the remaining schedule. For example, a change in the type of pool finish can impact the timing of the pool decking installation. As a result, the entire timeline for the project may need to be adjusted to accommodate for the change.

Budget

A change order can also impact the budget of the project. Any change in scope of work will result in a change in the overall budget. Depending on the change, it can increase or decrease the budget.

Written Approval

Before approving a change order, it is important for both parties to discuss and understand the impact it will have on the overall timeline and budget of the project. It is recommended for the change order to be in writing and be approved by both parties before any work goes forward. After the approval of the change order, the pool construction company can adjust their schedule and practices accordingly to accommodate the changes.

Conclusion

A change order can have a significant impact on the timeline and budget of your pool installation project. It is important for both parties to communicate and understand the impact of the requested changes before proceeding. With proper communication and documentation, any changes can be incorporated and the project can continue smoothly on its way to completion. Remember, the key to a successful pool installation project is to work closely with your pool construction company and make sure that everyone is on the same page throughout the construction process.

Ready to take the plunge and get a pool of your own? Sanctuary Pools is here to help. We specialize in fiberglass swimming pools, which are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. So don’t wait – let us turn your backyard into a paradise today! Contact us to get started.

The post How A Change Order Can Impact the Timeline of Your Pool Installation appeared first on Sanctuary Pools.