Landscaping Ideas & Tips for Your Pool Area

An outdoor in-ground pool

You did it! You finally have the inground pool you’ve always wanted.  Ultimate Pool and Spa created an oasis in your yard, and there’s no better time to update your landscaping to place the focus on your beautiful new pool.  Landscaping is best done right after the pool has been installed, as chances are you had to remove fences or sheds, and possibly even had to remove previous landscaping in order for the install to be completed.  Take advantage of the situation and use the chaos to create peace in your new sanctuary.

Plan Ahead

The first and most important tip is to plan! Make sure you have a good idea of what you want, where you want to put it, and that it’s within your budget.  Everyone wants privacy around their pool area, but what fits your lifestyle better – a pool shed or large shrubs and trees? A pool shed would be better for people who like low maintenance yards, whereas some people don’t mind having to stay on top of sticks and leaves falling in and around the pool and enjoy the natural privacy trees can create.  Make sure what you envision is what you really want and will work with your style and budget.

Choosing Plants

When considering plants, it’s a wise idea to steer clear of flowering plants, at least immediately around the pool area.  The reason is twofold: One, no one wants to have to spend their pool time swatting away bees or sneezing due to allergies.  Secondly, flower petals eventually fall off, and if they’re too close to the pool, you’ll be spending time skimming them out.  This same idea applies to grass.  Lawn looks beautiful but it should be kept away from the pool to minimize clippings in the pool and damage to the grass itself, as it is quite sensitive to pool chemicals.

Shading & Lighting

Lastly, consider your shade and lighting options.  Lighting can double as a style feature itself as well as a safety measure, keeping you and your guests safe when walking around the pool area.  It can also be used to accent certain features of your outdoor oasis.  Shade is equally important when planning your landscaping.  Whether it be with an umbrella, a gazebo, or a full pool shed, providing yourself and your guests with a shaded area to get out of the sun is a vital part of landscaping around your pool.

Whether you want to stick with the beautiful landscaping you already have or want to completely redo your yard to enhance your new pool, the experts at Ultimate Pool and Spa are here to advise, from the first shovel to the last splash!

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Basics of Proper Pool Maintenance

An outdoor in-ground pool.

While owning a swimming pool in the Okanagan is one of the best ways to enjoy the warm summer days, there are some specific care elements you’ll need to consider:

Circulation

You should keep in mind that moving water is a good sign that the water is clean, clear, and safe. It is for this reason that pool circulation is critical to your safety and health.

Also, it is possible to eliminate pool algae infestations by maintaining regular circulation. Ensure the pumping system and filters are working properly for optimal circulation.

Cleaning

Your pool is likely to be completely cleaned if circulation is functioning properly. Keep your swimming pool clean by scrubbing, brushing, and vacuuming it weekly. The water will remain clear and the walls will shine.

Chemistry

Chemistry plays a vital role in pool maintenance and water care in general. All pool owners should be aware of basic pool chemistry.
As a first step, a Water Testing Kit is essential to check the water quality. Before handling all the chemicals, make sure they are safe. Understand how your water is composed, as well as what is missing.

According to pool water chemistry, there are three key elements:

  • pH levels: The acidity or basicity of your pool water. Your pool should have a pH range of 7.4 to 7.6.
  • Alkalinity: Helps prevent huge spikes in acidity or basicity due to pH buffering. The range should be between 100 and 150 parts per million (ppm).
  • Sanitizer levels: Pool water contains chlorine, bromine, and so on. Different types of sanitizers have different levels of efficacy.

Create a Maintenance Schedule

For consistent maintenance, it is important to set up a schedule that is easy to follow. The to-do list can quickly become overwhelming as you learn about pool maintenance. It can be easier to execute a schedule, and you can see how much more work needs to be done.

Conclusion

In addition to enjoying the sun at your house, owning a swimming pool brings a sense of fulfilment.
There is a need for regular maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend your life vacuuming or playing with your chemistry set.
Understanding your pool’s function, understanding the care it needs, and planning to maintain it might make you feel proud of your pool care skills. Regular and thorough pool maintenance will provide you with more than just a relaxing swim.

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Is Pool Maintenance Difficult?

a person standing holding a net in an outdoor pool

Many people have the misconception that owning a swimming pool is a hassle and will take a considerable amount of time to maintain. That’s simply not true.
In reality, you only need to be consistent. When you are consistent and have the right tools, you won’t need to worry about keeping your pool clean and well-organized.

To maintain your pool properly, you have to know your pool

You can keep your pool running smoothly by understanding its parts and how they function – and resolve issues more easily when they arise.

The Basic Components of a Swimming Pool

Every pool has four components that need regular maintenance, whether it’s a basic backyard pool or an enormous inground oasis; these parts include:

Water
Water quality is crucial to enjoying your pool. You and your family will be protected against contaminants and pollutants if you keep it clean, clear, and balanced. Keeping your pool clean also helps you avoid expensive hardware repairs caused by corrosion or mineral buildup, and makes your pool last longer.

Interior
All water that enters your pool liner will come in constant contact with the walls of the liner. Keep these surfaces clean and free from algae, mold, and debris to ensure your pool is safe and clean.

Filter System
Your pool filter cleans the water to help prevent exposure to contaminants. Your pool will become cloudy, polluted, and unusable without a functioning filter system. There are many types of water filters, such as cartridge filters, sand filters, and diatomaceous earth filters.

Skimmers and Returns
During the cleaning process, your skimmers pull water into the filter, while the returns push it back into your pool. They function best when they’re clean and unobstructed. Every pool has its challenges, and you will no doubt encounter them over time. However, if you’re familiar with the four pool elements, you’ll find that most upkeep challenges will be overcome. Contact the team at Ultimate Pool and Spa for additional information.

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