X10 has always been a leader in innovation when it comes to home automation and security systems. With the X10 WiFi unit, you can connect to all of your existing X10 units from the convenience of your Apple or Android smart device. The WM 100X10 WiFi module gives you the ability to control all of […]
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Will a Backyard Swimming Pool Make You Happy?
Happiness. We may differ about what constitutes or contributes to it, but undoubtedly it’s at the core of what all of us humans desire. So it’s helpful to consider our lifestyle choices and major purchases in light of whether they’re likely to contribute to our happiness. Despite the widespread culture of consumerism and materialism, a […]
Poolside Safety: Protecting Your Skin Against Sun Damage, Part 2
While skin damage is certainly not something reserved only for those with backyard swimming pools, those who frequent the pool can certainly be at increased risk for Melanoma as well as other types of skin cancer and types of sun damage, due to increased time out in the sun combined with the reflective properties of […]
Ipe Wood – Facts about Brazilian Walnut
Ipe wood, also known as Brazilian Walnut, is a high-quality, durable and beautiful hardwood that is often used in decking, flooring, and outdoor furniture. It is a dense, heavy wood with a natural oiliness that makes it resistant to rot, decay, and insects. Its unique combination of strength, hardness, and durability makes it an ideal […]
What Method Is Best for Draining Your Swimming Pool?
There are several circumstances in which replacing some or, less commonly, all of the water in a swimming pool may become necessary. As we discussed in Part 1, these can include certain repairs and renovations as well as water-chemistry conditions that can’t be adequately corrected without replacing some of the water. Before reaching for the […]
How to Keep Children Safe Around the Pool, Part 4
So far in our series on how to keep children safe around the pool (see Parts 1, 2 & 3) we’ve mostly focused on what adults can do to help prevent children from becoming victims of a drowning accident. Other than teaching a child to swim, there are some important ways you can help children […]
When Dancers Are Mean Girls: Counteracting the Culture of Catty Behavior
Catty behavior or relational aggression can easily become a problem in your dance studio (read some causes behind this). While these issues are personal ones, how your dance studio’s leadership talks about and responds to catty behaviors is important, not only for the “victim” of bullying behaviors, but also for the character development of so-called […]
Sun Protection for Infants & Toddlers
Your summertime fun in the backyard pool can undoubtedly be also greatly enjoyed by babies and toddlers! However, do all in your power to ensure the safety of the youngest members if your circle of friends and family includes young children who frequent your backyard pool. Swimming pools can result in increased exposure to direct […]
Swimsuit Choices for Swimming Pool Owners, Part 2
One thing is for sure: swimming pools can wreak havoc on swimwear. Thankfully, though, there are a few things you can do to extend the longevity of your swimwear. As we discussed in Part 1, you can purchase swimwear made from chlorine-friendly fabrics and give your swimwear time to rest between uses. If you really […]
Reducing Painful Side Effects of Immobilization Boots
Amid the many long-term effects of ankle sprains and other types of trauma to the ankle or foot, the issues related to wearing an immobilization boot following treatment may seem insignificant. Certainly, a patient whose physician prescribes an immobilization boot should heed his doctor’s advice. The boots help to protect lower leg bones and joints, […]
Be in the Know About Pet-Friendly Pool Tips, Part 2
Keeping your pet safe in and around the pool should be your number one concern. In part 1, we looked at some of the most important steps you can take to ensure your dog’s safety. From installing a safety fence to evaluating your dog’s swimming ability, these drowning-prevention measures are significant. However, they’re only part […]
Top 3 Pool Maintenance Tasks & Tips for Handling Them
The next thing demanding your attention after making all those important decisions regarding your new pool is pool maintenance. If you’ve never had to consider pool upkeep before or never owned a pool in the past, this may seem like a difficult undertaking. But don’t worry, pool upkeep can soon become a way of life […]
8 Types of Backyard Swimming Pools to Consider for Your Home
A backyard swimming pool can be a great addition to any home. It can provide a place for recreation, exercise, and relaxation. There are many different types of backyard swimming pools to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a quick overview of the 8 primary types of residential pools, starting […]
Swimming Pool Maintenance Hacks, Part 3
We’re sure you’d rather spend fewer of your hard-earned dollars and precious hours on swimming pool maintenance than on buying fun additions and exercising, relaxing, or playing — whatever is more your style — in your backyard swimming pool. That’s why we’re pretty sure you’ll love the hacks & more hacks we’ve already recommended — […]
How Should You Drain Your Swimming Pool?
This final installment of our series (see Part 1 & Part 2) focuses on some practical considerations when water actually needs to be removed from an inground swimming pool. As we’ve discussed throughout this series, completely draining an inground pool isn’t routine maintenance. Depending on the pool’s construction and groundwater conditions, removing the weight of […]