Easy Pallet Tiki Bar Above Ground Pool

Check out this above ground pool easy pallet tiki bar idea from Crafty in Crosby!

Above Ground Poolside Pallet Bar

Check out this poolside pallet bar idea from 3glol.net!

How to Relieve Sunburn After Swimming in Your Above Ground Pool

**Image courtesy of thesecretyumiverse.wonderhowto.com by Yumi Sakugawa

Above Ground Pool Design Ideas From Houzz

Check out over 23,072 above ground pool design ideas at Houzz! http://www.houzz.com/above-ground-pool. For more information about getting a pool of your very own, please visit us at Ambassador Pools. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

Above Ground Pool Deck Ideas

Check out these above ground pool deck ideas from Gardening Ideas:

Above Ground Pool FAQ

At Ambassador Pools, we get a lot of questions from homeowners each and every single day. Below are some of the most common questions we receive on a regular basis.

1. Can an above ground pool have a "deep end?"

It is possible with many oval shapes. You can typically have a deep middle or end, and a shallower side for small children. 

2. Why is it so important for the ground to be level?

If the ground isn't level, it's going to cause a lot of problems for the base of the pool, as well as for the liner and the water levels. You aren't going to want a pool where the water is splashing over the sides on one end, and be very shallow in the other end with high walls. This doesn't just look bad, but it isn't safe, and it can cause a lot of damage to the swimming pool overall.

3. How often should the filter run each day?

It is recommended for you to have the filter running for at least 8 hours a day. If you run it twice a day, this could possibly be overkill, and it may cost you on your energy bills.

4. How will I fill the pool up with water?

The easiest way will be to hire a water hauler to come and fill it up. The price will vary depending on where you live and how much water you will need. You could also fill it up with the garden hose, but this could take a VERY long time.

5. Are round or oval pools stronger?

They can both be very strong given that the right framing and liners are used during its construction. Talk to your builder to be sure you know what your options are.

To Learn More

Please visit us at http://www.ambassadorpools.com or call us at 800-798-6039 to learn more about getting your very own above ground pool this summer. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

Throw a Backyard Pool Party This Spring

You've waited all winter for warmer weather and it's finally here! There is no better time than now to get your above ground pool ready, clean, and safe for swimming. It's also a good idea to throw a backyard bash for your friends and family to finally welcome the warmer months of the year.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your party:

• Be sure that you tape down table cloths underneath the table so that they don't fly up and hit anyone, or slide off.
• Try not to use any glass cups, plates, bowls, pitchers, etc. as there will likely be children rough-housing and having fun. You don't want them to knock any glass over and get hurt.
• Be sure to keep foods that will spoil out of the heat and sunlight. This includes: potato salad, fruit, dips, anything with dairy, fresh meats that are not grilled or cooked, and so on.
• Have extra towels handy for your guests.
• Don't forget to buy ample sunscreen to protect your guests from painful sunburns.
• Send out invites a week or two ahead of time with an RSVP request so you can get a head count on how many people to expect.
• Make sure that the pool's water is clean, balanced, and safe to swim in so that nobody gets sick or hurt.
• Install pool lighting if you plan on having the party after dark one evening.

For More Information

To learn more about getting your pool ready for spring/summer, be sure to visit us at Ambassador Pools. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

Swimming at Night in an Above Ground Pool

There is nothing quite like taking a dip in your backyard on-ground swimming pool on a hot summer night. However, there are some things that you should think about before you step foot in the water. You want to be safe, and you want to be sure that you, your family, and any guests to your home are able to swim without any kind of danger.

To prevent any problems with people not being able to see in the dark, it is suggested that you get pool lighting installed. There are a number of different options available to you when it comes to choosing the best lighting for your above ground pool. 

Types of Lighting Available

Overhanging Lights

These are the most traditional option. They involve having a light kit hanging over the top lip of the pool. They involve installing a light attached to a plastic arm where wires will go down the bulb. These are used mostly in pools that do not have any kind of deck installed. These are likely the most affordable option.

Through-Wall Lights

These lights look more "professional," and they don't stick out of the sides of the above ground pool. They don't interfere with swimming by getting in the way. For installation, they will need to be mounted properly to prevent problems with leaks. They must be installed through the structural walls of the pool and the liner itself.

Floating Lights

These are used in both in-ground and on-ground pool varieties. They do not need to penetrate any walls or liners for installation, and they can be purchased in battery-powered varieties. This means that you also do not need to worry about any unattractive or dangerous wires running to your pool.

Magnetic Lights

These are attached to the sides of the pool. This is also a style that does need to penetrate the walls of the pool or the liner for proper installation. Another benefit of this variety is the fact that the light can be moved to wherever you want.

For More Information

If you would like to learn more about above ground pools, in general, or about all of the different types of accessories available to you, please visit us at Ambassador Pools. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Where Did Above Ground Pools Get Their Start?

Today, we are going to provide our readers with a little history lesson about the origins of the above ground pool. These water features got their start back in WWII with Domain Industries. The U.S. Army had to think of a way to seal cans of food so that soldiers would always have something readily available in their packs to eat while on a march or when resting for the night. 

Domain Industries re-named their product line that made the can seals to Doughboy Plastics Division in 1947. During this time, the company began making and selling outdoor entertainment products, including beach balls, toys, and small pools. 

These pools were mostly geared toward small children and were made mostly of galvanized steel materials. After WWII, these water features became a status symbol for many American homes, and they were beginning to be made and sold with concrete materials instead of the steel. 

Doughboy Plastics was eventually re-named Doughboy Recreational and they began innovating their original pool design. They started becoming much more attractive, affordable, and were designed with a flat top ledge.

In 1974, Marty Hoffinger of Hoffinger Industries purchased Doughboy Recreational and they eventually became the biggest above ground pool manufacturer in the country. The manufacturing facility is located in Arkansas in a 660,000 square foot complex.

To Learn More

For more information about getting your own swimming pool, please contact us here at Ambassador Pools. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

Relieveing Arthritis Pain With Above Ground Pool Exercises

There are many people who, unfortunately, suffer from the pains associated with arthritis. It can make some people experience daily pain, or an inability to walk or move like they used to. There has been a lot of research done lately which seems to point to water exercising as a way to improve the daily aches and pains associated with this disorder.

Nearly 27 million people in the United States have arthritis, and whether it results in pain in the legs, arms, wrists, fingers, etc. the uncomfortable feelings can be relieved through the use of regular aquatic exercise. This includes, walking in the water, doing arm or leg lifts by using the side of the pool for leverage, or even just by swimming. 

It is best to consult with your doctor before starting any kind of exercise. 

For More Information

If you would like more information about getting an above ground pool for your backyard for aquatic exercises, please feel free to contact us at Ambassador Pools. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

5 Reasons for a New Pool Liner

A lot of homeowners who have an above ground pool might not understand the reasons why it is so important to get a new pool liner. They may think that the one they installed will last for years and years without any problems, even if they should choose to dismantle the pool to move it to a new location. However, this is not the case at all, and regardless of how high quality the liner is that you already have installed, there are a few things you should understand about these products so that you know when it's time to get a new one. Read on to learn more.

1. Shrinkage: when you move your pool, the water is drained and then the liner is exposed to outdoor elements, including the sun. In just a matter of a few days, the liner may experience 10%+ shrinkage. It will never be able to be put in place the same way again once you have your pool moved to where you want it to be. Using the same liner could eventually result in serious tears or other types of damage.

2. Skimmer screw holes: when the liner was installed, the skimmer was also installed by placing screws through the liner. These can be really hard to match up when you decide to move your pool. This is why it is best to get a new liner altogether to avoid any un-necessary damage or frustration. This can also help to prevent leaks through existing skimmer holes.

3. Chemicals: over time, the constant chemical usage in your pool to keep the water clean will take its tole on the liner. This can cause it to become very weak all over or in certain spots. If left neglected for too long, certain spots may actually become completely worn through, and this can cause serious damage to other parts or the pool.

4. Floor base: all pools have a floor to them, whether they are built with sand or some other type of stone dust. When you move your pool and add in a new floor material, or more material, the liner will not be able to be installed and stretch over the frame the same way again. This can lead to serious tears or damage to other areas of the pool.

5. Damage from the sun: as time passes, the sun's hot rays will beat down on the pool day in and day out. This can eventually cause it to wear out in certain spots. Additionally, excessive rainfall, ice, wind, and snow can cause problems for the liner's strength and durability.

More Information

To learn more about getting a new liner, or to get information about moving your above ground pool, please feel free to give us a call here at Ambassador Pools. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

The Benefits of Exercising in an Above Ground Pool

When you have an above ground pool set up in your backyard, it's easy to get some great exercise and stay physically fit. When most people think of exercising in the pool, they may think of common swim strokes, including the backstroke, butterfly, or freestyle. However, while these are great and can help you to become a stronger swimmer, there are other types of water fitness you can participate in. 

Exercising in the water provides resistance and it is able to support your weight. This makes it a great option for people recovering from accidents, surgeries, or for pregnant women. There is a very low risk of injury as long as common sense and standard pool safety techniques are followed.

Exercise Equipment

While you don't have to use any equipment to get a good workout in the water, you may choose to use:

• Pool noodles
• Pool kick boards
• Pool dumb bells

However, as mentioned above, you really don't need any special equipment to burn some calories in the water. There are several different types of exercises you can do that don't involve anything else but your own body!

Types of Exercises

Water walking - this involves taking 10-20 steps forward (depending on the size of your pool), and then the same number of steps backward. It will use two different sets of muscles and helps to raise your cardio level.

Water squats - you will do a squat the same way you would on land. Bend your knees slightly forward and push your hips back as if you were sitting down. 

Leg lifts - stand shoulder deep in the water and hold on to the side of your pool. Raise your left leg as high as you can, and then repeat on the right side with 8-10 repetitions.

Arm workouts - stand shoulder deep in the water with your hands down by your sides. Next, slowly lift your arms up to shoulder height and then bring them back down. Repeat for 8-10 repetitions.

More Information

To learn more, or to get a backyard swimming pool of your very own, contact the professionals at Ambassador Pools. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

The Risks of Having a Salt Water Pool

There has been a lot of talk recently in the pool industry about making the switch from a standard filtering and chlorination system to salt water chlorination. But, before you do something like this at your own home, there are a few things that you should know about.

1. Chemical balancing - salt water requires a lot of maintenance

2. Draining - there are city rules and guidelines in place when it comes to draining your salt water pool

3. Galvanic corrosion - this is a complicated electrical process that could cause a lot of problems for your swimming pool

Chemical Balancing

When you add a salt water system to your pool, the chemical balancing process will change, obviously. Most swimming pools have a low pH while salt water pools have a higher pH due to the fact that chlorine is produced from the system. The problem here is that many pool owners think that if they buy a salt water kit, they aren't going to need to do as much maintenance. This is not true. If corrective actions aren't taken to keep the water's pH levels in check, it could cause a lot of problems, including the formation of corrosive scale.

Draining the Water

Typically, a traditional pool can have its water drained out to the curb in front of the home where it will flow down a sewer grate. With salt water, you may need to have the water hauled away or some other requirements may be in place depending on where you live. This can lead to additional maintenance costs for you to worry about from season to season.

Galvanic Corrosion 

This is the process where metals are submerged in an electrolyte mixture, creating a current that moves between metal components and the water in the pool. This means that the salt water in your pool may have a constant voltage, which will eventually lead to premature corrosion to the pool floor, liner, filter, and so on.

For More Information

To learn more, give us a call here at Ambassador Pools. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

When is a Child Ready to Learn How to Swim?

Many parents often wonder when it's time to teach their children how to swim, or when the right time is to get them signed up for lessons. Research seems to indicate that the earlier a child is introduced to the water, the more comfortable they will become with it and the easier it will be for them to pick up on pool safety techniques and swim stroke development. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents waiting until a child is at least 4 years old before they sign them up for lessons, and this is simply due to general developmental limitations that a young toddler will have. However, some studies performed by Stephen Langendorfer, PhD and several Australian studies indicate that once a child reaches two milestones in their life, they are ready for lessons - these include age and individual experience.

Toddlers who are exposed to a backyard swimming pool are more "ready" for lessons as compared to a child who is only swimming at a public pool or one at a local aquatic center or gym. In fact, there are some lessons which are designed for children as young as 6 months of age. These classes help to teach the basics and can work to prevent drowning and other hazards associated with the water.

Basically, it is up to the parent when they want to sign their child up for lessons. If you feel your son or daughter is "ready" for learning the basics so that they can get more comfortable in the water, then you should sign them up for lessons at a place you are also comfortable with. Children won't really be able to learn swim strokes until they are about 5 years old.

Experts also recommend the following for teaching children to swim:

• Annual lessons should be attended for 8 weeks every season
• Pool barriers and security need to be put in place in any backyard swimming pool
• Supervision is a MUST for a child of any age - regardless of how well they seem to be picking up on swimming techniques

To Learn More

For more information about getting a backyard above ground pool of your very own to aid in your child's learning, please feel free to give Ambassador Pools a call today. We serve New England, including all of Massachusetts, Hudson Valley, western PA, and parts of the Midwest, including Cleveland, Akron, and Canton in Ohio.

Getting a Quiet Pool Filter

Nobody wants to be relaxing in their new above ground pool and then be interrupted by a loud, annoying filter system. You can't shut it off or do "without" one as this is what is responsible for helping to keep your water safe, clean, and healthy. 

The type of filtration system you have influences how loud it's going to be. Cartridge filters, for example, produce less noise than a sand filter because of their hydraulic design. A sand filter has a special port on it that water moves through before getting to the filter. This can put off a lot of noise. A cartridge filter does NOT have the additional port for water to move through. 

The quietest filtration systems are variable speed pumps. You need to be sure that you are choosing one with at least two speeds. When running on low-speed, you will barely even be able to notice that it's running, and when you are finished for the day in the pool, you can push the system up to high-speed and not have to deal with the noise from inside your home.

More Information

To learn more, give us a call at Ambassador Pools today. Our toll-free number is 1-800-798-6039. We thank you for your interest in our services and products, and we look forward to hearing from you soon!

How to Move an Above Ground Pool

A lot of homeowners buy above ground pools and they eventually need to move into a bigger/smaller home, or they need to re-locate because of jobs, schools, and so on. Regardless of the reason why you need to change locations, you don't have to leave your swimming pool for the next homeowner to enjoy. That's right - you can actually move your above ground pool with you to wherever you may be going!

Follow the simple steps below and you and your family will be enjoying the cool comforts of your swimming pool at your new location in no time at all!

1. Be sure to do a thorough inspection of the pool before you start to move it. Be sure that the bottom of the pool is in good shape, including the track, bottom plates, and screws. Some rust is okay, but if the frame is starting to rot and is in bad shape, it may be easier (and safer) to consider getting a new pool.

2. If the pool is in an oval shape, be sure that you check the a-frames to see if they are rotted. This includes the straps that are underneath the pool itself. Some rust is normal, but if they are in terrible shape, they are going to need to be replaced.

3. Cut out the liner and remove the bolts that are connecting the walls together. You may be in need of some WD-40 to help you with this task. During this time, you should also remove the skimmer.

4. When the bolts from the walls have been removed, you can remove all of the uprights. Then you can roll the wall tightly - - this will take a few people. Duct tape the wall together to keep it from unfolding while you are moving it from one location to the next.

5. Disconnect the filter system and the bottom track pieces. Be sure that everything is thoroughly washed out and cleaned.

6. At your next home's installation spot, be sure that the grass and ground are level before you start the set up process. 

7. Assemble the parts in reverse with a NEW liner and any additional parts that may be required.

Here are some of the new parts that you may need: liner, screws, track, clamps, hoses, special rust-proof paint, and a skimmer.

For More Information

If you would like more information about moving your swimming pool, please give us a call at Ambassador Pools - New England's above ground pool authority. Our toll-free number is 1-800-798-6039. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Common Questions We Get From Customers

At Ambassador Pools, we are dedicated to serving the unique needs of all of our customers. We get asked a lot of questions, understandable, and we want to take a few minutes to answer some of the most common ones that we receive. So, if you are doing research about getting a new above ground pool, some of your questions may be answered in this post!

Do I need to get a permit?

It depends on where you live, but most likely - yes - you will need to get a permit before any installation work can begin. The typical fee to get one will vary from city to city, but usually ranges from $100-$150.

Is it important for the ground to be level prior to construction? 

Yes, this is actually one of the most important parts of the building process. We will be sure that the ground that the pool is being installed on is properly leveled before and during the construction. We will be sure the area is 1/2 inches in grade.

What kind of pump will I need?

A majority of pumps are about 110v and have a 3 foot cord that can easily be plugged in. It is going to need its own breaker and gauge wires traveling to the pump itself. If you need recommendations on specific brands for your pool, we can provide you with some suggestions of products that we know work and last.

How much will it cost to fill the pool?

Giving an exact estimate on cost for this is somewhat difficult, but it will typically range from $80-$160. Your local water company will also be able to give you an idea on costs based on how many gallons the pool will hold.

How long does it take to install the pool?

It will take roughly 1-2 days to get the pool installed, and this can vary depending on how much leveling will be required for the ground the pool will be set up on.

What should I do about landscaping?

This is often an overlooked part of the process because the homeowner is more concerned with wanting to jump in the new pool to cool off! However, you will need to think about re-seeding the area around the pool where the grass was stepped on and heavy pool parts were kept. Also, you may want to add crushed stone around the base of the pool, or you can even add on a deck for a nice place for sunbathing or placing towels.

For More Information

 

For more answers to your questions, please feel free to give us a call at  1-800-798-6039, or you can fill out our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Will Adding a Pool Increase the Value of My Home?

If you are considering adding a pool to your backyard this year, then you are likely wanting to know more about all of the benefits that it's going to provide for you, your family, and your property. Needless to say, when it comes to you and your family, the #1 benefit that it's going to provide is a place to cool off on a hot summer day - all from the comfort of your own home. 

When it comes to what benefits the above ground pool is going to add to your backyard and property, there are a few things to consider. First of all, how big is the pool going to be that you are getting installed? What will it be made out of? And finally, if you are thinking about moving within the next year or two, are you going to be leaving the pool on the property? 

The answer to the last question is likely the most important thing to think about. If you aren't going to leave the pool in the yard and you plan on taking it with you, then no, the pool is not going to increase the value of your home if you are thinking about selling it. However, if you are planning on leaving the pool on the property, then it may increase its resale value - it likely will not be as much as you paid for the pool, but it should be a considerable amount.

Selling Your Home With the Pool

If you are going to leave the pool on the property, it will be in your best interest to be sure that you are properly maintaining it throughout the year so that you can be getting the most for your investment. 

Be sure that you have a cover installed to keep ice, snow, and bugs out. Also, be sure to maintain your pool's liner and check it often for cracks, rips, and tears. It will be important for you to regularly replace these items and other pool accessories as needed.

More Information

To learn more about purchasing an above ground pool for your home, or if you have any other questions about your swimming pool, please give Ambassador Pools a call today, or visit our website for additional information that may help to answer your questions.

We serve the entire New England area, including Massachusetts and Hudson Valley, NY.

How to Deal With Ice Damage To Your Above Ground Pool This Winter

This winter has just started and it is already proving to be incredibly cold with brutal temperatures, record-breaking snowfall totals, and freezing rain and sleet galore. If you are the proud owner of an above ground pool, then you likely have done all that you can to get it prepared for the cold months ahead.

However, sometimes even with the best care and attention, these pools can get damaged. Under the weight of heavy snow and ice, pool liners can rip and tear, and walls can become dented or even start to actually fall apart.

Ice in the Water

When water in your pool builds up and turns to ice, it expands nearly 9%. This puts an extensive amount of pressure on the pool walls and cause them to expand outward. This can easily be prevented with the use of a specialized air pillow beneath a tightly-secured pool cover. It is important to protect against this problem since the ice can ruin your liner and scrape down the sides of the pool's wall.

Damage From Snow

A foot of snow on top of an average-sized above ground pool can weigh in excess of 7,000 pounds. And add to that more ice and snow, and the weight just continues to go up and up all winter long. Eventually, the walls of your pool won't be able to support the weight or pressure. This is when the walls start to buckle beneath the weight, and this will typically happen at the weakest point - usually where the skimmer and return are located.

Taking Care of Repairs

If your above ground pool has been severely damaged this winter, it will be important for you to properly take care of the problem(s) before spring returns. To repair walls, you can make use of continuous rolls of sheet metal that are often sold at your local home improvement store. Be sure that you are using a stainless steel metal. If the walls are bent or buckled, they can be taken care of and put back into place with the use of a 2x4 and a hammer or mallet. Lower the water in your pool to below the damaged area. Then, hold the wood inside of the pool and hit it from the outside with your hammer. This will help to flatten the wall and remove creases.

Preventing Damage

Be sure that you make use of an air pillow below your pool cover. You should also make sure that you are on the look-out for any leaks that may pop up during the winter months. Taking care of them NOW will prevent a lot of damage and headaches in the spring. Remove sno and build-up of ice from the top of the pool, but be careful.