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Create an Adventure in Your Home

So it is Saturday morning and you are discussing plans with your kids for the evening.  Your kids typically go out with their friends or go over their friend’s house and have dinner and an entertaining evening.  Your wish is to have them home for dinner more often with their friends and stay to watch a movie or play pool. But your kitchen is small, your dining area closed in and you don’t have a “movie room” or pool table.  An idea strikes you that maybe if you remodel and create an inviting dining and entertainment area, your spirit of adventure and change will lead to more Saturdays with your kids than not.

We had this exact family come to us about a year ago. They are a professional couple in Great Neck with 3 teenage children.  With entertainment in mind, we suggested an extension for the dining area and a basement remodel to include a home theater and pool table to encourage a sport. The result was a fantastic newly designed home with family & friends to enjoy it with.

We added the extension and had to match the bricks on the outside per the local town regulation. We made sure the family was set on the design before we applied for permits. We didn’t want any hiccups due to changes which could delay the job unnecessarily.

The kitchen was designed into the extension with a beautiful island and and eat in dining area. We added large windows for maximum natural light. The glass doors provide access to their large yard. Next year they intend to add an outdoor kitchen and bar.

We added a variety of cooking stations so their whole family can particpate in making meals.

 In the end, you will relax and enjoy a design made especially for you…  If you are considering a remodel, visit our Manhasset, NY Showroom. We are minutes off the L.I.E. Lakeville Rd exit. Parking in the back of our building (with two white columns). Our Products & Services

How to choose tiles for your bathroom

Renovating your home is a big project that takes a lot of time, effort, and planning. This is true no matter which room you’re looking to update. When renovating a bathroom, it can take a great deal of time to choose tiles that will fit your style and budget. From choosing the right size, shape, color and pattern to combining different tiles in one room, the options are endless. The key is to take your time. Here are some essential things to consider when choosing the tiles for your bathroom remodel, which will help you narrow down the options.

What are the Options?

The options to consider include: Budget, material, color, style, size, maintenance.  Size also includes thickness for floors and walls. Your preferences and lifestyle will determine what you choose.  You may like subtle colors and patterns, wild or flowery styles.  You may want porcelain, marble, ceramic. mosaics or real stone. You can spend $5 sq ft for porcelain up to $150 sq ft for luxury waterjet marble. You may like to match everything or mix and match. Studying pictures of bathrooms on sites such as Pinterest can help non-designers know what they like when they see it. Buying tiles that are cheap can cost you later. The finish can fade and look worn.

Floor to ceiling large format 4’x8’ porcelain wall tiles,, Glasso floor and marble shower tiles.

Renovating a bathroom after moving in

In an ideal world, it would be amazing to move into a home that is completely renovated including furniture you love. Most of the time, the reality is different. You’ve probably already moved into your new home and are looking to redo your bathroom. Renovations don’t have to be difficult and tiring either. They can be a good opportunity to bring change into your life and rethink your personal style. Your new bathroom is an opportunity to design it to your taste and turn it into a space you feel happy in. By renovating after you’ve moved in, you can get a better sense of what the bathroom really lacks. If you wish to rearrange the fixtures in the bathroom, you should think about it before you change the tiles.

Consider maintenance

Make sure you choose a low-maintenance tile to keep your bathroom clean and beautiful. The one thing many people tend to overlook when renovating their bathroom is maintenance. Some materials hold up better with little maintenance. Porcelain is an excellent choice for floors and walls. Marble is quite beautiful but needs constant maintenance to stay beautiful. Multi-color tiles are easier to keep and look clean than solid colors.  Neutral color grout will be easier to maintain. If you wish to go with a darker-colored tile, you should keep in mind that water stains will be much more noticeable than on lighter tiles and need to be cleaned more often.

Brown porcelain tiles

Choosing the right size tiles

The first thing to decide is the size tile you want to add to your bathroom. It will enable you to narrow down the large list of choices. For smaller bathrooms, you can use small or medium size tiles. The bathroom will look bigger if you decide to add floor-to-ceiling tiles. This eliminates horizontal dividing lines and gives the effect of a heightened space.  In larger bathrooms, tiles of any size will look good. Popular of late are 48” x 48” tiles and 48” x 96” tiles for more modern styles. They add an amazing look (few grout lines) to large master bathrooms.  You can mix and match a couple of different sizes and shapes to add character to the space.

You can choose one size/style/color for the floor, another for the walls and a third for a walk-in shower and shower floor. If you are not sure what goes together, you can consult with a designer and/or look at inspiration pictures on Pinterest. Or you can choose the same tile for the floor and walls. 

Stick to a style that makes you happy

What’s important to consider when choosing tiles is the style. The style goes hand in hand with the color scheme. You can get really creative and go bold with your bathroom floor tiles. A unique tile can turn your ordinary floor into a feature that will tie the whole room together.  If you love the wooden floors in your home, you can even add tiles with a wooden pattern to the bathroom to make the room feel cozier.

When choosing a color for your tiles, you’ll notice there are glossy and matte options available. Adding glossy tiles in lighter tones will make the bathroom feel brighter and bigger. But, if that’s not your style, you can go with matte, moody-colored tiles and combine them with bright décor items. At the end of the day, it all comes down to your personal taste. You can take inspiration from the current trends in interior design. But, choose a trend that will age well, and that won’t need redoing after a couple of years. Your bathroom tiles should be something timeless, something you won’t get tired of looking at.

Cream Colored Tiles

In conclusion

In order to choose tiles for your bathroom, you should first have a clear vision of what you’d like your bathroom to look like. Bathroom tiles have a big effect on the overall look of the room, so take your time and try to find something that you’re sure will keep you happy for years to come. It’s better to spend more time thinking and designing the perfect room than to be forced to remodel quickly.

When renovating a bathroom in a home you’re living in, it can be a stressful situation. Remodeling can last longer than planned, not to mention that your house can get messy and disorganized during the renovation process. To prevent a mess as much as possible, you can rent a storage unit to get extra space for your items while renovating. Not only are you keeping your home cleaner and more organized during the remodel, but you’re also keeping your items safe, especially if you are doing a whole home renovation.

Unique tiles - Mix and match tiles.

Terrazzo tiles

How to choose flooring material for your kitchen

A beautifully designed kitchen.

Your kitchen floor has a big job to do. Not only does it have to stand up to a lot of foot traffic, but it also has to shrug off spills and stains easily. Aside from having to be practical and durable, your kitchen floor is also a major design statement. The choice you make regarding flooring material for your kitchen affects every other element of your design. When faced with the variety of materials, colors, and textures available today, your choices can seem almost infinite, and the pressure to make the right one can feel awful. After all, if you want your kitchen to look right, the design doesn't stop at choosing the best cabinetry and choosing the right countertop.

What to consider when choosing a flooring material for your kitchen

 Firstly, let's go through a few key things to consider when shopping for kitchen floors. Many things can and should influence your choice.

 Your lifestyle

In your home, you are the star of your own cooking show. For this reason, it's probably a very common occurrence for sauces to get spilled, silverware to be dropped, and spouses, kids, and pets to check in often. The flooring material of your choice needs to be able to stand up to the type of wear and tear that your lifestyle brings. Another thing to keep in mind is to use nonslip floors, especially if you have young children, as a safety precaution.

Cost

If you are planning a remodel, you have probably set a budget for yourself. Obviously the

size of your budget will drive your decision on material and ease/difficulty of installation. Some flooring material needs extensive prep work while others are simple.

If your square footage is small, you may be able to squeeze in a higher quality floor even if your budget is modest. Additional costs may pop up such as underlayment, leveling, delivery charges (which are high), professional installation and removal and disposal of your old floor.

Other budget costs include items you don’t plan for such as your packing and moving fine glassware and china, which cannot be in the kitchen when you are ripping out flooring and cabinetry. Even things like renting a self-storage unit and having someone safely move them to the unit have to be taken into account.

Your need for ease of cleaning

If you use your kitchen often, you are probably familiar with food spills taking over your kitchen floors. To minimize the time you spend on maintenance, choose a material that's easy to clean, water resistant, and not prone to staining. We will review options below.

While they look beautiful, vinyl sheets are also perfect for people who use their kitchen a lot.

 Comfort

 If you have a habit of spending hours on your feet in your kitchen when cooking, you should consider floors with a bit of softness and resilience. For example, tile floors can become uncomfortable after long periods of standing. Wood-based flooring materials have some give, making them better for reducing leg fatigue. Whichever you end up choosing, always remember that a small soft mat or rug can also add some comfort.

Your design style

The suitable flooring material for your kitchen complements your kitchen's design style. If your kitchen holds a rustic and country style, you could go for hardwood or warm-colored tiles. But, if you have more of a mid-century modern design, vinyl flooring or terrazzo is probably the right choice. With contemporary kitchens, almost anything goes, except possibly rustic tiles. Consider the kitchen's size, colors, textures, and patterns when choosing the floor. You should decide whether you want your floor to be a neutral backdrop or serve as a vivid focal point.

 Vinyl flooring

 Vinyl flooring is great because it offers a wide variety of styles and colors that come in tiles or sheets to those on a budget. They are made of manmade plastics and not exactly a “green” product.

 Sheet vinyl flooring is waterproof and stain-proof. It also makes cleaning up spills and splashes an easy chore. It comes in a massive array of colors and styles, from plain sheets to embossed vinyl tiles that do a great job mimicking ceramic tile and stone. Standard sheets are also 12 feet wide, so seams are usually minimal.

Vinyl is considered resilient flooring. This means that it feels slightly soft underfoot. That eases fatigue and makes long hours of cooking easier. Additionally, resilient flooring is forgiving of dropped bowls and glasses. If you're looking for a lower priced option for kitchen flooring that still gives a lot of usefulness, many types of sheet vinyl are pretty inexpensive.

Hardwood is the right flooring material for your kitchen if it features a more rustic design.

Hardwood

This flooring combines three essential features: warmth, beauty, and comfort. It is an excellent choice if you have an open floor plan and want a single type of flooring that extends from your living room to your kitchen. If done well, it also combines durability with low maintenance. Properly finished hardwood flooring can resist moisture from occasional splashes. However, you will have to clean spills immediately. It is recommended to have a professional do the finish for hardwood in the kitchen since it can make the difference between easily stained floors and hard-to-stain ones.

It most commonly comes as either solid wood or engineered wood planks. Engineered wood planks are generally a better choice for kitchens. They are made by putting a top veneer of natural wood onto a layer of plywood. This makes the planks stable and the flooring less susceptible to humidity and temperature.  Solid wood floors are a higher budget item.

Porcelain tile

When it comes to both durability and good looks, porcelain kitchen tile flooring is the go-to. It is an upgraded version of ceramic tile. Primarily because of the difference in the manufacturing process that makes it harder and less porous.

Porcelain tile is bought either glazed or unglazed. Glazed tiles are made with a glass-like coating that can be made in any color. Unglazed porcelain tiles have the naturally earthy color of the clays used to make them. You can choose from so many sizes and colors. A popular style is the porcelain floor that looks like wood planks.

The installation process of porcelain tiles is pretty tricky and requires a lot of space. If you are not replacing your cabinetry, you may still have to pack and move your kitchen as if you are moving it to a new home. This means that if you have anything in your kitchen that is taking up space on the floor (like a kitchen island), you'll have to take it down during the remodel. Be careful when dismantling a kitchen, and don't hesitate to reach out to professionals.

Natural Stone - Limestone

Limestone is a natural stone that offers a natural look. It definitely isn't for everyone since the upkeep it requires can be a bit much. It is a very porous material. In other words, unless you want it to stain all the time, you'll have to reseal it every few years.

: Limestone looks great but requires a lot of work.

Limestone comes in a few natural colors. The most popular are grey and cream. Since the texture will make the floor a statement piece, you should be smart with your choice of color. So, if your focus was on opening up a smaller space with light, cool grey, and white cabinets, your limestone tiles should not be brown or cream. The correct flooring material for your kitchen will complement the organizational design of your kitchen.  

Natural Stones – Marble & Granite

The ultimate luxury is natural stone which is probably the most expensive option you can choose. Their one of a kind beauty and patterns are unmatchable. Marble and granite are perfect for a clean look in modern and contemporary kitchens. Marble is a softer stone than granite, which has pluses and minuses.

Marble can stain, scratch and chip and must be sealed on a yearly basis. Acidic liquids must be cleaned immediately. Hard water can etch marble and needs to be wiped up right away.

Linoleum

Linoleum is made from renewable, biodegradable cork powder and linseed oil, making it a very environmentally friendly flooring material for your kitchen. It also doesn't have any harmful VOCs. It's a resilient flooring that comes in many patterns and colors, just like vinyl. While it is moisture-resistant, it is also a bit susceptible to staining. You should do your best to ensure that the product you buy has a good quality protective coating that will guard it against scratches and spills.

CALL OR VISIT US TO DISCUSS YOUR NEW KITCHEN INCLUDING FLOORING.

PHONE: 516-365-0595 OR VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT: 983 NORTHERN BLVD, MANHASSET, NY, 11030

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 https://unsplash.com/photos/-aDGbdTsBZg – featured image

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What is the difference between Framed vs. Frameless Cabinetry?

Perfectly named, framed cabinets are cabinets with a face frame that covers the front of the cabinet box. Framed cabinetry is used for traditional, transitional and inset cabinetry. There are three main styles. You can choose a full overlay style that covers most of the face frame with a small reveal around the doors. Partial overlay shows more of the frame and is usually a less expensive option. A popular framed style is called inset. This is when the cabinet doors are recessed within the cabinet frame fully exposing the face frame . There are beaded and non-beaded inset options. Framed cabinetry advantages include a very sturdy box and ease of installation. If you like crown molding, it can be placed right onto the frame. There is however, less storage space (including the drawers) due to the frame. Most framed cabinets have a center stile which limits access as well. Some brands (like Rutt), you can eliminate the center stile up to a certain height cabinet. Framed Cabinet Styles

Frameless cabinets (also called full access) do not have a face frame nor center stiles. Modern Cabinetry is frameless. Most European cabinetry is frameless. Since there is no frame, there is more storage space (especially in the drawers) and easier access into each cabinet. The box is usually thicker to create more stability. Only full overlay doors are used. The hinges are attached to the side of the box. Frameless cabinets are typically designed with flat, slab doors to create a sleek minimalist look. Many brands build the box with particle board instead of plywood. Things to consider:

1. Storing heavy items on shelves and bottoms can cause sagging on wide cabinets

2. If your walls are not straight, installation will be more difficult

3. Edge banding can peel over time

4. Frameless Designs

Before you or your client make a decision, the first consideration is what style you love. Definitely go in person to a showroom to view them side by side. If you have specialty items such as large plates or big pots, bring them. See how they fit and how you want to store and access them optimally.

What’s New With Outdoor Kitchens

Guest Post

The covid pandemic taught us many important lessons, not just health-related. It forced many to rethink how to organize their home inside and outside. After all, being stuck inside made us all appreciate spending time outdoors that much more. However, improved outdoor living space isn't simply a reason to extend your living quarters, even though it creates additional functional and aesthetically pleasing areas. It's also a great way to invest in your home's resale value. So, if you are thinking about upgrading or adding an outdoor kitchen, you have another reason to start the process now. Plus, we've done thorough research and found out what's new with outdoor kitchens. Hopefully, one of the kitchen trends we've selected for this article will inspire you to reach out to NY's finest remodeling center and start working on moving the heart of your home from inside to outside.

Photo of a new outdoor kitchen during the sunset

First- find your inspiration

The first step in creating an outdoor kitchen is determining what inspires you. Does the look you're going for feel more like an intimate, private garden? Or do you like a more contemporary and fashionable outdoor area? There are several cabinetry and appliance styles to choose from.

For inspiration, look at the three most popular outdoor kitchen designs.

• Modern design never goes out of style! BBQ and other outdoor appliance trends incorporate beautifully into a modern outdoor kitchen and patio. Both indoor and outdoor, modern kitchen designs are timeless. Modern patios incorporate marble surfaces, stainless steel equipment, and wood accents to create a clean and tranquil place for entertaining and relaxing. If you add cabinetry, there are many brands of outdoor grade cabinets in stainless steel and marine grade materials. Modern doors and many colors to choose from.

• The rough and unfinished feel of industrial design is achieved without creating the impression of a completed project. Stainless steel appliances, rich color schemes, brick accents, and wood and steel features are staples of an industrial outdoor kitchen design. It's a laid-back, no-frills patio design that's yet eye-catching and beautiful. Take a look at cement colored sintered stone pavers.

• The farmhouse-style outdoor kitchen is still very popular. You'll create a timeless piece of art by decorating your outdoor living space in the style of rural farm structures. Rustic elements like reclaimed wood, stone, and wicker are common in country-centric designs, as are bright white accents. The pro-BBQ style fits perfectly! Masonry can be your focal point of design. There are many beautiful natural and engineered stones to consider.

Outdoor kitchens - trends that will inspire you

There were times in the past when outdoor kitchens were simple and very dull. In addition to the unstable side table full of meats, condiments, and grilling implements, they provided little more than a rudimentary grill. Heck, this might even describe your current outdoor kitchen "design."

But as times change, so does everything else. The outdoor living experience has become much more luxurious and upscale in recent years. The following outdoor kitchen trends will perfectly illustrate what we're talking about. More importantly, they will hopefully inspire you to design your perfect outdoor kitchen.

With a neutral color palette and clean lines, modern outdoor kitchens exude a sense of refinement.

High-quality appliances

A high-end outdoor kitchen requires professional-grade cooking appliances. And what is more important to an outdoor kitchen than a premium grill? Integrating a built-in grill into the outdoor kitchen design is one of the expanding trends in outdoor kitchens. You can save space, make the workstation more effective, and make it appear classy and professional. If you want to get fancy, you can add a pizza/wood burning oven, outdoor fridge, a sink, smoker, wine cooler and/or ice maker. An outdoor bar can be incorporated into the kitchen. OUTDOOR APPLIANCES

If possible, we recommend moving large kitchen appliances and storing them safely during colder months. After all, you want to use your state-of-the-art grill for many years to come. Consider renting storage if you don't have enough room in your home. Most importantly, make sure to hire professionals to transport it and handle it with care. When the winter is over, you can get your items out of storage and start organizing outdoor barbecues again.

High-end features for outdoor kitchens

If you want your outdoor kitchen to stand out, a good idea is to add features that will turn it from an outdoor kitchen into a full outdoor living space. For instance, you might enjoy sitting next to an open fire, so a high-quality outdoor fireplace or fire pit could be a perfect choice for you. A landscape lighting system is a must if you plan on having late dinner parties. Installing a music system is always a good idea, but if you want to go a step further, you can even consider adding an outdoor cinema.

A lot of storage space

Without cabinetry, it is hard to consider it a kitchen. When it comes to your outdoor kitchen, it's essential to invest in quality kitchen cabinetry that is strong enough to withstand the elements while being visually appealing. On top of that, you need to make sure you have enough available storage space. 

In most luxury outdoor kitchens, stainless steel is the material of choice for built-in cabinet systems. If you choose to order custom cabinetry, the clean appearance of stainless-steel cabinets will be tailored to suit your taste. Your barbecue and other outdoor appliances will look amazing!  There are many brands of marine grade “High Density Polyethylene” (HDPE), which is considered the most durable outdoor cabinetry. There are different door styles and colors to choose from. Consider adding an outdoor kitchen island with built-in storage, and you will give your space an even more luxurious and high-end feel.

Stunning prep area

Most well-designed outdoor living areas nowadays have a designated full-service prep area. After all, everything is more efficient when it's laid out logically. You'll need ample counter space and enough storage to access everything you need quickly. Nothing can ruin your summer barbecue like wasting time going back and forth to get everything you need. Sintered stone is the perfect material for counter-tops. It is extremely durable and UV resistant. Perfect for outdoors! Look at brands: Natura, Neolith, Dekton.

If you outfit your outdoor kitchen with all conveniences your indoor kitchen has, you will make outdoor cooking that much easier and more fun. Your guests can help you cook or keep you company while you prepare a delicious meal with everything you need at your reach. You can achieve this by adding a kitchen sink, built-in side burners, a warming drawer, enough refrigeration, an ice-making machine, a coffee maker, and your favorite appliance! 

Charming decor

It would be best if you gave as much attention to the design and décor of your outdoor living space as you do to the design and décor of your inside living space. One of the most popular trends in outdoor kitchen design is the idea of "style continuity" throughout the home, where there is a natural decorative flow from room to room. Therefore, it's becoming more common for outdoor kitchens to be decorated in a style that matches the internal kitchen or the room next door.

A high-quality grill is a must for any outdoor kitchen.

The bottom line

Now that you know what's new with outdoor kitchens, you'll hopefully feel inspired to reach out to design and remodel pros and start working on turning your dream outdoor living space into reality. Not only will you get an amazing space to spend time with friends, family, or a good book, but you'll also boost the value of your home. There is no reason why you shouldn't get started asap!

CALL ELITE KITCHEN & BATH/EXPRESS CONTRACTING TODAY TO BEGIN THE DESIGN OF YOUR NEW OUTDOOR KITCHEN!

516-365-0595

Photos used:

https://unsplash.com/photos/-OKp-rhSWE4

https://unsplash.com/photos/Tk1pmgowG0w

https://unsplash.com/photos/D99y38Na5Xo

https://unsplash.com/photos/csK5XPO87lI

Make sure to invest in proper lighting for your outdoor living space

What is the difference between Quartz and Sintered Stone?

Simply explained differences between the two popular stones

Cambria Quartz

Quartz

We all have heard of quartz - the engineered stone used for countertops, back-splashes, floors, walls, etc.. The make-up of the quartz depends on the brand. For instance, Cambria's quartz products are made of about 93% white quartz plus resin and pigment. The quartz is crushed, melted, formed and then baked and polished. Quartz is a very hard stone. The lower grade quartz material has a higher resin content and is low luster. Quartz is stain resistant but not heat resistant. Hot pans can damage quartz like almost all stone. Quartz counters are safe for food preparation. Quartz can stain, chip, burn and yellow from UV rays. Quartz does not have to be sealed and it is easy to clean. There are many patterns to choose from.

Popular brands include Cambria, Caesarstone and Compac. Stone partners

Cambria Quartz

Sintered Stone

Dekton Sintered Stone

Sintered stone is a popular material for indoor/outdoor counters, walls, floors and backsplashes. Sintered Stone is made entirely from natural materials which are formed into strong and durable slabs. No resins nor polymers are used so it is a much cleaner product.

The process is called sintering. Sintering mimics the metamorphic process which takes thousands of years. Sintered stone is extremely resistant to etching, stains, scratches and does not burn. Since it is UV resistant, it can be used outdoors without fading. You can put a hot pot on sintered stone without burning the stone. It is one of the most resilient choices for residential and commercial projects. On the downside, it is more expensive than quartz and the pattern does not run through in the event it is chipped. Sintered stone does not need to be sealed and is easy to clean.

Popular brands include Dekton, Natura, and Lapitec.

Lapitec Sintered Stone

Lapitec Sintered Stone

Is Owning a Pool Right for You? What You Should Know Before You Dive In

by Guest Blogger: ISN

Owning a swimming pool is a popular childhood dream, but there’s more to these aquatic home additions than meets the eye. Maybe it’s common sense that pools require regular chemical and physical maintenance, but have you considered what owning a pool will do to the overall value of your home or the cost of additional insurance coverage? We’ll go over these lesser-known factors and touch on the more obvious ones so you have all the information you need before deciding as a homeowner or potential home buyer.  

Buying a Home: Pool Included or Build Your Own? 

If you’re on track to buying your own home and have your heart set on a pool, it makes sense to buy a home with one already installed, right? It’s true that installing one yourself can set you back $20,000-$60,000 for an in-ground and up to $8,000 for an above-ground unit, but a pool that comes with a home might not be the right option for you. 

Take Repairs into Consideration

One of the significant cost contributors to owning a swimming pool is repair-related. In the best-case scenario, the previous owners were on top of chemical monitoring and minor repairs, so you can pick up where they left off at the usual upkeep cost when they hand you the reins. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take much to neglect pool maintenance, and you could be looking at a hefty bill of repairs for a unit you didn’t get to customize. 

Chlorine imbalance can quickly eat away at your pool’s material. Tears in pool liners can lead to algae growth and the possibility of needing to replace the entire thing. Shoddy maintenance over the years can result in filter and pump system malfunction, causing the need to hire a costly technician to fix it. 

Source:https://unsplash.com/photos/h8wLc3lbDuA

More than One Option

Feeling discouraged? Don’t despair. You would think that a home with a pool already installed would cost more, but they generally cost the same, so you won’t have to adjust your price range to buy a house and opt to install your own unit. The benefits of installing your own are endless, starting with the ability to completely customize the pool itself, the location, the addition of a pool deck or surrounding landscaping. It’s definitely worth mentioning that you’ll end up with a brand new pool with no repair history to sneak up on you leaving total control in your capable hands. 

What Can Your Pool Do For You? 

Backyard swimming pools provide easily accessible fun throughout the summer months. Pools are a great way to cool off and relax. The addition of Cool Pool deck coating has a special cool-to-the-touch formula that helps keep pool decks cooler on hot days. If you have the option to heat or own an indoor pool, the enjoyment can extend year-round. 

A World of Good

Aside from personal use for relaxation, exercise, and family quality time, a private water oasis is a fantastic centerpiece for celebratory gatherings. Poolside barbecues are a summertime staple for all ages, especially if you have kids. You’ll be the best host if you throw an end-of-school or end-of-summer pool party. With the money you can save on a venue, it’d be a piece of cake. 

Of course, summer fun is high up on the pros list, but there are fundamental pool benefits. For adults, exercising in water is a full-body workout that is easy on the joints. Water activities are inherently relaxing, and limited sun exposure increases serotonin naturally.

For kids, having access to a pool can significantly decrease child mortality. It is a sad truth that drowning is the number one cause of loss of life for children between the ages of 1 and 4 and the number two cause up to age 14. Learning water safety and swimming regularly lowers this risk by 88%. 

On the lighter side, a backyard pool provides other benefits like opportunities for socialization, outdoor entertainment, and quality time with friends and family. Research supports swimming’s contribution to sensory-motor development in children of all ages, especially those with special needs who have trouble participating in other activities.  

What Can Your Pool Do For Your Home?

While it is true that generally, pools don’t add value to your home and may even decrease it, that doesn’t mean that you can’t be the exception to this rule. Many years ago, those who installed their pools didn’t have the power of the internet, and this handy cheat sheet to guide them towards the features that will add value to your home. Alternatively, several factors can (negatively) impact you and the price you pay for installing your pool. 

Decked Out

On its own, a deck addition is one of the best home improvements you can make to drive up the cost of your home. Most renovations only recoup a 50-80% return on the investment — which means for every dollar you spend, you will only add 50-80 cents to your home appraisal. Installing a deck is one of the few renovations that return dollar-for-dollar on the investment. With that in mind, it makes sense to add a deck so you can increase your overall pool value. You can also rest easy knowing that you won’t lose anything down the line if you spring for pricier materials — all of the enjoyment, none of the risk. 

Safety First

Although it’s not directly considered the value of your home, the cost of your home insurance impacts your wallet and will be affected by a pool, so there are a few things you need to know. Insurance providers consider residential pools an “attractive nuisance,” and homeowners are liable for anyone who uses their swimming pool, with or without permission. Should any lawsuits be filed against you, purchasing an umbrella policy to increase your liability coverage will serve as the safety net you may need. 

Insurance rates are also affected by the levels of pool safety. Installing a fence around your pool will create a barrier to prevent accidents, but it can also lower the cost of your insurance and possibly bail you out if you get sued. On the other hand, installing a diving board can raise your insurance rates due to being considered an injury magnet. 

Since your pool is on your own property, you don’t have a set of safety regulations to follow like a public or club pool is required to meet. These are things like signage that warn about the dangers of diving into shallow water or swimming unsupervised. These warnings are meant to draw attention and aren’t particularly attractive. Still, there are decorative ways to ensure safety if you frequently have guests over to swim or allow your older children to invite friends over while you promise to be cool and stay inside. Gentle reminders to keep glassware away from the pool or that the deck is “slippery when wet” may serve you well in the long run. 

Pool lighting also provides safety—illuminating the pool’s edge and guiding the way back into the house. There’s no reason you can’t get creative with colored lights — it’s your pool, after all. 

Damage

Over time, some damage is inevitable and usually minor. One of the most common pool repairs is a tear in the pool’s liner (we’ll get into what types of pool material has this problem soon), which causes a slow leak and loss of water in the pool. This can cost an average of $350 to fix and $2,200 if the tear is substantial and needs replacing entirely. 

Other pool materials may crack due to drying out or soil movement. Many of these are superficial and need repair for aesthetic reasons, but significant soil movement can lead to foundation damage that needs immediate attention and repair. You’ll know if the cracks you see fall into this category if you’re experiencing water loss that cannot be attributed to evaporation or if rust is emerging from said cracks. Rust is a sure sign that water is reaching the rebar or pipe that provides structural support to your pool. 

Hardware and Equipment

Like many things, multiple components work together to make your pool a safe and functional entertainment area. If some parts aren’t up to par, other mechanisms may need to compensate and decline faster. During your pool planning, you’ll need to decide what lights to put up, where to put steps in and out of the pool, and if you want or need ladders. 

Another factor to consider is pool cleaning. Some owners rely on a weekly pool service or take on the duty themselves of skimming the leaves out of the pool and scrubbing the debris off the walls, but you can also opt to purchase a skimming machine that takes care of that for you. Several pool cleaning tips save you time, such as using a tennis ball to absorb oils that may get into the water from sunscreen and using baking soda as a chemically safe way to brighten pool tiles. 

An essential part of pool maintenance involves drain cleaning, so it is crucial to think about the ability to access and service them. If you are buying a home with a pool, make sure your inspector goes over these items and possible repairs or upgrades you need to make. In either case, it’s probably best if an inspector helps you with more complex features involved in pool ventilation, such as filters, pumps, and timers. You will need to know what to look for to maintain minor upkeep yourself and then know when it’s time to contact a professional. 

Pools also use plumbing, electrical components, and possibly pool heaters. It’s not expected that you become an expert on these elements, but awareness and some common sense will carry you a long way, as well as routine maintenance appointments with your chosen pool service.  

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/8V7Ny9B2Siw

Building a Pool? Don’t Skip These Steps

If you want your pool to last and save money in the end, you cannot scrimp on your pool’s initial and crucial building blocks. If you do these things right, you will have a quality home addition and fewer headaches in the future. 

Location Matters

Before you embark on your pool building project, you must consult your municipality guidelines to determine where you can put your pool. The size of your backyard will contribute to pool size. Still, there will also be limitations based on the ability of machines to access the area, whether your property has a distance requirement from the fenceline or other buildings, and what other elements you want, such as a pool deck or landscape maintenance. 

Is Soil Important

Building a pool starts from the bottom up. A foundation is crucial but what that foundation rests on is even more so. If you live in an area with a sandy soil type, your pool will need reinforcements to support the structure, which can add cost. If you have dense, compacted ground, you may require additional machinery to excavate, which is not included in a typical pool installation price. Many pool contractors offer low-cost or free estimates, and they can help you determine the best way to install your dream pool. 

Laying the Foundation

The last significant step is laying the foundation of your inground pool. This will involve metal framing followed by a poured or formed substrate that takes the final shape of your pool. Depending on your budget and format, the final decorative layer can be applied, and you’re on your way to filling up. 

Will it Pool?

If you are installing and designing a pool from scratch, the sky’s the limit — or your budget is. Even though your pool design can have endless shapes and customizations, these all fall into a few categories in the biz. The top three types of pools are either rectangle, freeform, or the well-known “kidney” shape. Of course, you can also have a circle pool, especially if you are looking at an above-ground option and any extended version of such. 

The above terms usually apply to the shape of the pool as it appears from the surface, so there’s another group of words for what is happening below the surface. A drop-in pool features steps that lead you into the shallow end and a gradual slope to the pool’s deep end. Infinity pools require the support of certain terrain features but are characterized by one or more edges with water flowing over them, creating the illusion that the pool extends into the distance. There is also a plunge pool, larger than a spa but smaller than a standard swimming pool, so it’s perfect if you have limited yard space. Pool contractors even offer lap pools so you can train like an Olympian in your own backyard. 

What Pools are Made Of  

The top three materials are vinyl, fiberglass, and concrete. This refers to the outer material you and water will come into contact with. They are listed in order from least to most durable and least to most expensive. Pools with vinyl liners have the lowest price, but they need to be replaced every 5-9 years, so the expense adds up. 

Fiberglass pools are incredibly durable and have a smooth gel-coat finish that is non-porous, so it requires fewer chemicals to care for. It also harbors significantly fewer bacteria. The downside of fiberglass lies in the installation. Because they are pre-formed in a factory, they are installed in one big piece. You will have to be able to accommodate a massive truck delivery and a crane to lower it into the ground. Both vinyl and fiberglass are flexible, so they are optimal in cold weather areas where freezing occurs, and elasticity is necessary to prevent cracks. 

Concrete is the most popular pool material because it is entirely customizable and high in durability. Despite the total cost of ownership and chemical maintenance being the highest of the three, most pools installed today are this type due to the feasibility of installation. If you have the space to install one, you can accommodate the pool construction of a concrete unit. 

It may seem like a lot at first, but there wouldn’t be 10.4 million residential swimming pools in the United States if it were impossible to keep up with care and maintenance. Once you get into the groove of pool ownership, it’ll feel like second nature and a small price to pay for your backyard paradise.

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