DIY looks we love

Posted on April 27, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

There are some amazing, hand-painted market umbrellas available – like this one from Paint Misbehavin.   If you have a creative flair, and want to breathe new life into a tired old umbrella, follow these simple tips to create your own.

 

 

 

 Remove your canvas umbrella from the frame.

  1. Brush off as much of the debris as possible and wash it with mild detergent in your washer machine or by hand.  Do not put it in the dryer, lay it out flat to air dry.  
  2. Lay the umbrella on a clean tarp and begin to sketch out your design in pencil.
  3. Add textile medium to your fabric or acrylic paint according to the instructions on the textile medium’s package.  This will make painting on canvas or other material easier.
  4. Start painting the umbrella in sections using a brush or sponge in light coats. Apply a second coat if desired.
  5. Let the umbrella dry for at least three hours.
  6. Spray coat it with water-repellent to protect it.
  7. Once it’s thoroughly dry, transfer it back on to the frame.
  8. Sit back and enjoy your creation.

Tips:  Select a fabric paint specifically designed for canvas to reduce fading. Always use a water-repellent spray to protect the outdoor umbrella’s surface. To create a more uniform design, use a stencil.

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Weekly Maintenance

Posted on April 24, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

 

 

Thoroughly treating and cleaning your pool on a weekly basis during the swimming season will ensure clean and safe swimming water.  Here is a list of the weekly maintenance you’ll need to perform.

Skim Off Leaves and Debris
Use a long-handled leaf skimmer to gather up leaves, insects, and any other debris floating on the surface of the pool.  Try to remove debris before it sinks to the bottom of your pool where it becomes difficult to remove and may create stains.

Brush
Use a brush to remove dirt that has collected on the sides and bottom of your pool.  Brush sediment toward the main drain so it can be easily vacuumed.

Vacuum
Submerge your vacuum head and hose, before hooking up the vacuum to the filter.

Clean Skimmer(s)
You should also clean out your skimmer(s) weekly or more often if necessary.  Removing debris allows the skimmer to operate at maximum efficiency.

Check Water Circulation
Your pool’s circulation system includes the skimmer, pump, pump strainer, drains, and filter.  The system helps chemicals work effectively and ensures that water is properly filtered.  Run your pump long enough each day to make sure the water is properly filtered and keep each item clean and in good condition.

Check Filter
The three most popular types of filters – sand, cartridge, and vertical grid DE – screen out debris and particles from your pool water. You should clean and maintain your filter according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Shock
Test your pool water frequently (daily or weekly depending on use) and add chemicals if necessary, following manufacturers’ directions.  A regular shock treatment cleanses the water of algae, bacteria, dirt, and any other organic matter that may have entered the pool.  Follow manufacturer’s directions for shock treatments.

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Snowbirds take flight

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

 

 

 

 

Now is the time of year snowbirds take flight.  If you’re not familiar with snowbirds, they’re the lucky people that live in warmer climates in the winter and migrate north for the summer.  If you’ve never experienced a northern winter, this lifestyle may be tough to comprehend.

 

 

Snowbirds – who’s watching your pools? Do you have a service company monitoring your pools or are you lucky enough to have terrific neighbors watching over your pools?  Whatever your situation, does it really give you peace-of-mind to know that your precious pool is in tip top shape and not turning green on you after you flew the coop?

Many of you have heard by now about Hayward®’s Aqua Connect® Web remote pool management and Sense and Dispense® chemistry automation.  Sense and Dispense continually monitors your pool’s water and dispenses what it needs, when it needs it, while you’re away.  And Aqua Connect Web can give you a birds-eye-view of your pool from anywhere, even your nest up north.  And did you know your trusted pool pro can also monitor your pool using Aqua Connect Web?  Both of you will receive alerts when pH or chlorine levels are falling out of range, so they can get to your pool before big issues arise.  This way you can keep your chemistry in balance and eliminate surprises like green pools.

Our friend Dee may not be a snowbird, but she certainly can attest to the issues people face when they travel between dual homes and the surprises they get – like a lime green pool.  Check out Dee’s Story. 

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Everything you wanted to know about algae – especially how to destroy them!

Posted on April 17, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

You may recall from science class that algae are one-celled plants.  There are more than 20,000 species.  Yuck!

Algae that grows in swimming pools and spas, can be green, brown, yellow, black or pinkish.  Most often they’re a slimy substances that resembles fur and typically grow on the steps and in corners – places where circulation may not be optimum.  Most swimming pools are in the sun several hours per day, and it’s sunlight that speeds algae growth.  Terrific right!

We’ve listing common algae types and colors, and recommended remedies from pool pros. 

Source: The Ultimate Guide to Pool Maintenance by Terry Tamminen.

Green Algae

Green algae – chlorophyta – is a slimy substance that can be found on pool and spa surfaces. First signs of it will be in small clusters on pool steps or lurking in corners. It’s at this stage that you should start to attack it — green algae can grow quickly in 24 hours or less.

Brushing will remove green algae, but it won’t destroy it. Super chlorination — aka shocking or shock treatment — will sanitize pool water that might be resistant to normal chlorination. Maintaining your pool regularly during swim season is key to staying on top of a green algae outbreak.

Yellow Algae

Yellow algae also goes by the appetizing term “mustard algae” because of its brownish or muddy yellow color. While yellow algae (phaeophyta) doesn’t spread as quickly as green algae, it is harder to destroy.  Like green algae, yellow algae grows in the same fur or mold-like pattern. Unlike green algae, brushing will not do much to remove it, although it will remove the top layer of slime, which exposes the algae underneath. Super chlorination and regular maintenance will help kill mustard algae.

Black or Blue-Green Algae

Black or blue-green algae are primarily found in lakes and ponds.  You would only typically see it in a pool if it were not being maintained. Black algae is the pool pro’s worst nightmare. At the first sign of black algae, you need to consider the pool or spa as a patient in critical condition.  Why? Unlike green or yellow algae, black algae doesn’t have and outer layer of slime, which acts as a protective barrier for the algae underneath. Black algae will penetrate deeply into hard surfaces, like plaster and concrete. It first appears as black spots and then proliferates. If you see signs of it, immediately use a stainless steel brush, which cracks the algae’s shell and allows sanitizers to penetrate it.

Pink Algae

Pink algae is actually a fungus.  It appears as a reddish slime, usually at a swimming pool’s water line. Unlike its colorful cousins, pink algae is the easiest to remove. Simple brushing and regular sanitizing will keep it under control.

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DIY ambiance looks we love

Posted on April 13, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

This is probably one of the easiest, most inexpensive DIY projects you’ll ever tackle, but one that will make an amazing impact to your outdoor living space.  We have found countless bloggers and videos on the topic, but it’s so much simpler than most of them relay.  Here’s a quick rundown of how to make them. 

Gather mason jars – for a more formal feel, keep them all the same.  If you’re going for a casual look, consider mixing old and new jars in various shapes, sizes and colors

  • Choose your hanging material – use heavy twine for a more casual, beachy feel.  Copper or generic 20 gauge wire for a more formal look
  • Cut a long piece of wire or twine – about 4 feet long, wrap it around the opening of the jar twice under the threads.  Be sure there are equal amounts of excess twine or wire at both ends.  Twist or tie the wire to secure it.  You can loop the excess wire up and join them at the top to form the hanging loop.  Or you can cut the excess, rejoin them on either side of the jar’s wire or twine and then bring the excess up and join them at the top to form the hanging loop. 

Here’s the fun part!  You can put a simple votive or tea light in the jar and hang them as is, add beads to the wire or spray inside of the jar with glass paint.  Also consider partially filling the jar with any one of the following to match your theme – these will also help secure your candle.

  • Sand
  • Sea glass or sea shells
  • Pebbles
  • Colored water
  • Leaves or flowers
  • Coffee beans
  • Jelly beans
  • Sugar
  • Marbles
  • Pennies
  • Beans or died corn
  • Legos
  • Glitter
  • Beads
  • Buttons

The sky’s the limit!

Share images of your creations and tips – have fun!

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Pool building tips from Pool Professionals!

Posted on April 10, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

Pool building tips from the pros

Are you in the market for a new pool?  Check out what a couple of terrific pool builders had to say about selecting a reputable builder, what to look out for, trends and more.   To find a pool pro in your area, check out our builder locator.  Good luck!

Pool building tips from California Pools

California Pools and Landscape Jeremy Smith, California Pools and Landscape  

 

 

 

How do I choose a builder?  Do your research. Check with the state licensing board and the BBB for a list or reputable builders.  Does the builder have complaints?  Are they properly insured and bonded?  Find out how long they have been in business and always ask for customer referrals.  Also make sure to see some the builders recently completed projects. Judge for yourself if you like their quality of work.  Have at least three quotes before you make your decision.

How do I budgeting and watch for hidden costs?  How do I get financing? The best way to watch for hidden cost is to have a clear and concise contract and building plans from your pool builder. All agreements should be in writing. 

Financing is not easy to come by these days.  If you do not have equity in your home to finance your building your pool via a 2nd mortgage then another  option might be to apply for unsecured lending (ie personal line of credit).

How long will it take? We can only speak for California Pools, but most of their pool projects are completed within 4 to 6 weeks.

What are some design and lifestyle trends?

  • Travertine paver decking
  • LED pool and spa lighting
  • Varied elevations (ie raised pool wall, raised deck areas, sunken swim up bars)
  • Fire pits, fire pots and fire and water effects
  • Natural products like stone facing, pebble interior and boulder waterfalls
  • Backyards transformed into another family room or an extension of the home’s living space.

What can I do to make my pool as safe as possible? Install child safely barriers per your city’s building code. Supervision is also key. No pool fence, alarms or door locks can ever replace adult supervision.

For more tips and an amazing photo gallery, visit California Pools and Landscape.

Pool Building tips from Klapprodt Pools.

 Joel Klapprodt, Klapprodt Pools

 

 

What do I need to know before building a pool?  What are the things nobody asks and are surprised by later?

Most customers assume that all pool builders are going to do the same thing.  You need to understand what is really included in your construction agreement.  Ask your builder what about possible situations that could come up – electric lines, drainage lines or weeping walls can change the price of your agreement.

What can I expect from the construction process? A good company will communicate clearly what you can expect from the construction process.  Good communication is the key to making sure everything goes very smoothly.

What are my design and lifestyle options? A good builder will ask a lot of questions and listen to their clients to find out which design and options will suit each family.  If a family does not know what they want, it is key for a pool builder to find out how the family envisions they will use of their pool. 

What are some money saving tips – Energy efficient products, water and chemical saving options?

Choosing an energy efficient pump can be very important. Also choosing to go with salt chlorination vs. traditional chlorine can affect your monthly maintenance costs and time.  Try and get all the facts before you make a decision.

How do I make my pool maintenance free? Pools are not maintenance free.  You need to work with a company that will help you to understand what it takes to own a pool.  With a little time on your part, taking care of a pool can be very easy as long as you’re consistent with the care. 

For more tips and an amazing photo gallery, visit Klapprodt Pools.  

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Above-ground pool owners – get a FREE AquaRay™ above-ground automatic pool cleaner.

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

Buy an Aqua Trol® above-ground salt chlorinator, receive a free AquaRay™ above-ground automatic pool cleaner.

Visit your nearest Hayward dealer (find a dealer near you) for this limited time offer! Get a free AquaRay above-ground automatic pool cleaner when you purchase a Hayward® Aqua Trol® Salt Chlorine Generator from April 9, 2012 through May 21, 2012. Exclusive offer for pool owners only — a $179.00 value!

Once you have purchased your Aqua Trol, register your purchase and create your mail-in rebate form.

This offer is valid only on purchases made from April 9, 2012 – May 21, 2012. Rebate requests must be postmarked no later than June 30, 2012.

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Grilling for the holidays

Posted on April 5, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

Grilling for the holidaysGrilling for the holidays 

If you are fortunate enough to live in a location where the weather permits, don’t just cook your holiday feast outdoors, dine PoolSide.  We found this terrific recipe we just had to share from our friends at Outdora.  Be sure to prepare everything ahead of time so that you can fully enjoy the festivities.

Let us know how this holiday recipe turned out for you. 

Marinated lamb and veggie kabobs with horseradish dipping sauce

 

Ingredients:

  • 3 lbs. lamb, cut into 1” cubes (Outdora recommends using leg of lamb)
  • 3 lbs. combination of sweet onions, mushrooms, sweet bell peppers, tomatoes cut into chunks for skewering
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 5 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp. dried oregano
  • 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup grated fresh horseradish
  • 3 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1 tsp. dried basil
  • ½ tsp. dried oregano

 

Directions:
In a bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil garlic, pepper and tablespoon of oregano and marinate the meat and veggies cubes in the fridge for 2-4 hours. Prepare your grill for indirect grilling, making sure that the grate is sufficiently oiled to prevent the meat and veggies from sticking. Remove the meat and veggies from the marinade and place on skewers, alternating meat and veggies. Cook to desired doneness, turning after a few minutes. Be sure not to overcook the meat. Combine the horseradish, vinegar, basil and oregano and serve in cups as a dipping sauce.

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Planning an egg hunt? Paint your pool to match the eggs!

Posted on April 4, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

  

How fun would it be to colorize your pool in intense jewel tones for the perfect Easter Sunday egg hunt backdrop? Consider turning your pool a vibrant shade of pink, purple, green and/or blue to match your holiday décor.  Have fun with it – the kids will love it!

Very cool!  Learn More about LED Lighting

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Spring is here – it’s time to open your pool!

Posted on April 3, 2012 by Hayward Poolside

Opening your pool signals the start of warm weather and chillin PoolSide.  Whether you’re emerging from a long snowy winter or a quick brush with cooler temps, opening your pool can be a simple process.

The first step toward getting your pool back in great shape is spring inspection. Hayward recommends calling on a local pool pro to inspect and start up your pool equipment. Often, this minimal expense pays off in the long run. A trained eye can spot safety issues such as missing suction covers, electrical or gas problems. If you prefer to do it yourself, here are some steps to follow.

1) Remove standing water, leaves and debris from the pool cover

2) Take out the winterizing plugs in fittings – such as skimmers and return fittings

3) Make sure your water is at the proper level

4) Reinstall or assemble any equipment stored for the winter

5) Lubricate or replace o-rings on pump lids and the equipment’s plumbing connections

6) Visually inspect equipment — pump, filter, heater, lights, automation system and chlorinator

7) Ensure drain covers are properly installed and secure

8) Make sure your heater is free of debris and has proper clearance of any combustibles

9) Power-up equipment and check for leaks or drips, and tighten connections, replace o-rings as needed

10) If using a DE (diatomaceous earth) filter, add the proper amount of DE.  If you’re using a cartridge filter, clean cartridges

11) Run your pump for several hours, then check and adjust water chemistry to proper balance. (Make sure your testing kit and chemicals are not expired)

12) Once adjustments have been made, shock the pool following label directions

13) Before running your automatic pool cleaner, remove any heavy debris from the bottom of the pool

14) Check the operating pressure on your filter and verify good water flow. It may need to be backwashed or the cartridge(s) cleaned

15) Operate your heater to make sure that it works

16) Re-install ladders and accessories that were removed and stored for the winter

If you’re looking for a pool pro in your area, or wondering where to get your Hayward salt chlorination Turbo Cell tested, check out our dealer/servicer locator.

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