Friday, May 30, 2014

What the Law Says About Above Ground Pools in Tewksbury, MA

First settled in 1637, Tewksbury is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts with a population of about 30,000. It is situated about 19 miles north-northwest of Boston and has the Merrimack River forming part of its northern boundary.

Summers in the area can be hot and humid, which makes above ground pools an attractive addition to anyone's home. Aside from being more affordable than inground pools, above ground pools are more practical and easier to maintain, too.

But what does the law say about owning above ground pools?

First off, there is a law that requires covers on in-pool filtration systems. This is to prevent swimmers, especially children, from getting injured when the pool filter's suction gets hold of them.

While most pool laws differ from state to state, some of the other common laws require having a pool fence erected to keep children out when not in use. Usually, these same laws include a provision requiring gates to be locked when an adult is not present.

Of course, there are construction laws and codes to follow when installing a pool, and it's wise to follow these to the T. The laws often require the proper installation of pool lighting and other special electrical components to avoid electrocution. Always have a professional electrician install these up to code.

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Where to Get an Above Ground Pool in North Reading, MA

North Reading is a town in Middlesex County, Massachusetts with a population of about 15,000. First settled in 1651, the town has seen success through the years as a farming town and boot and shoe making center.

Summers in North Reading can get pretty uncomfortable, and though air conditioners work, sometimes taking a dip in a pool is the surest way to stay cool and relax. Because not everyone has the time to travel to the nearest swimming hole, many look to above ground pools for easy access to water.

It's no secret that above ground pools are more affordable, easier to maintain, and much more customizable than inground pools. But where can you get one?

The answer - Ambassador Pools.

Ambassador Pools is a family-owned and operated swimming pool dealer and they offer the finest above ground pools on the market today. Without using subcontractors, you only get direct service from them.

For those who have no idea where to start when it comes to purchasing an above ground pool, you can be sure that Ambassador Pools' sales team will help you every step of the way, from informing you of its benefits, to helping you choose the right pool for you, your home, and your family.

Summers in North Reading need not be an uncomfortably hot affair. Call Ambassador Pools today and learn how you can have your very own above ground pool in your backyard.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

West Newbury, MA Above Ground Pool Facts

Situated on the Merrimack River, West Newbury in Essex County, Massachusetts has a population of about 4,300. It was first settled in 1635, turning into a rural farming town until it evolved into the affluent community it is today.

Many West Newbury residents love the water, and as such, when the weather gets hot enough, they look to cool off by taking a swim. Since not everyone can visit the nearest watering hole everyday, many look to buy an above ground pool, instead, for easy access to some water.

If you are planning to buy an above ground pool, here are some facts to consider:

Since a pool requires a lot of water, and must be replenished from time to time, make sure you install your pool near a water source so you can easily top off the water level whenever needed.

While many think they can set up an above ground pool by themselves, it's best to call in a professional to ensure that the installation is done correctly - from ensuring that the ground is level, to putting the right substrate underneath the pool. Some excavation and landscaping may be needed, as well as other heavy duty lifting. In other words, get professional help. 

Also, be sure to take into account that your pool will require proper maintenance, which means long-term costs. The good news though is that maintaining an above ground pool is more affordable than maintaining an inground one. 

While owning an above ground pool requires dedication, time, and money, it is all worth it. Besides, it is still significantly easier to own an above ground pool than an inground one, so you will still be ahead.

To learn more about above ground pools, its installation and maintenance, call Ambassador Pools today!

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Finding a Leak in Your Wenham, MA Above Ground Pool

Originally settled in 1635, Wenham in Essex County, Massachusetts has been listed by Boston magazine as one of the Best Places to Live. With open views of farm lands, lakes, woodland, historic homes, and nearly 300 acres of parks and playgrounds, it's easy to see why.

But when the weather gets hot, the best way to make living in Wenham even better is to have an above ground pool installed. Many residents have one already, and if you're on the fence on buying one, time to take the plunge. You're in good company.

However, every once in awhile, a leak may spring up in or around your above ground pool, and locating it can be an exercise in futility if you don't know what you are doing. Here are some tips to help you locate that leak in your swimming pool.

First, confirm that you have a leak. Mark your pool's level and after 24 hours, double check it. You shouldn't lose more than ¼ inch a day. If you lose more, a leak is involved.

To find the leak, it's best to check the obvious culprits first. Check the equipment pad, the filter, pump, heater and pipe valves. These have moving parts and are more prone to wear and tear.

Check the area around the pool and take note where the wet areas are. Chances are the leaks are close by.

If you have a vinyl liner pool, check for tears, and separations.

If you can't find the leak, call Ambassador Pools and have an expert pool repairman come to your home. If you do find the leak, it's best to still call a repairman to help you fix it. While you may be adept at fixing leaks, an above ground pool is a different beast altogether, and repairing a leak requires expert knowledge.

While a leak may be irritating, having it repaired only takes a short while before it's good as new. When in doubt, always call a professional to avoid worsening the situation. Call Ambassador Pools today if you feel your pool has a leak!

Why Choose an Above Ground Pool in West Boxford, MA?

A town in Essex County, Massachusetts, Boxford lies about 24 miles north of Boston with a population of about 8,000. Summers in Boxford can get uncomfortably hot, so many residents look for alternative ways to stay cool off at home. One of the more popular choices is getting an above ground pool.

Inground or above ground, that is the question. So why should you go for an above ground pool anyway - when everyone knows that inground pools are the traditional choice?

For starters, above ground pools are significantly more affordable – to install and to maintain. What's more, it's tax-free. Unlike inground pools where you need to pay annual taxes on it.

Affordability is one thing, but how does it perform compared to inground pools? It might come as a surprise for some, but above ground pools do the same thing inground pools do, plus much more. Both keep you cool, that's a given. But above ground pools have a leg up on inground pools by being much safer. While kids and pets may fall into inground pools, the raised profile (plus optional fence and gate) of above ground pools makes it more difficult.

Another thing, above ground pools are fully customizable. Sure you can customize an inground pool during installation, but once installed, what if you suddenly change your mind? You'd have to excavate and redo the whole thing all over again. With above ground pools, you only need to replace the deck with another without having to drain the pool, excavate, or dismantle it.

Going back to maintenance, while it costs less to maintain an above ground pool, what makes it more special is that the amount of maintenance required isn't as involved as it is with inground pools. Whether you maintain the pool or yourself or hire a professional to do it, above ground pools are much easier to keep in good working order.

These are but a few reasons to go with an above ground pool. If you've been on the fence about buying a pool before, consider above ground pools to help you with your decision. You can't lose. Call Ambassador Pools today and ask how they can make your pool-owning dreams come true!

Planning for an Above Ground Pool in Topsfield, MA

Located in Essex County, Massachusetts, the town of Topsfield is a place filled with history. From the first tribes that settled here, to the Salem witch trials, Minutemen, and Civil War, the village has seen its share of history.

But what was once a small farm town evolved into a suburban bedroom community in the modern age thanks to automobiles.

As a bedroom community, residents look at Topsfield as a place to relax and to unwind. As the dog days of summer come, many look to have they own pool to cool down and relax in anytime they want. But as it is with everything else in life, you don't purchase a pool impulsively. You need to plan for it first.

You must first decide how the pool will be used. Will it be strictly for relaxing? Or will it be used for exercising, as well? Knowing how you'll use it will determine the best shape and location of your pool.

Next, you need to consider the financial obligations an above ground pool entails. While significantly less expensive than inground pools, you still need to be able to maintain your above ground pool.

The third step will have you looking at the size of your yard. The overall size will help pool professionals figure out what size pool is needed and how to navigate over slopes, rocky patches, and other landscaping problems.

Next, you consult a pool professional and decide on your pool's design. With the help of a professional, you can choose the materials needed for the deck, patio area, or even special water features. A professional will give you options, you will decide, and together you both will make it happen.

Finally, you choose the safety and maintenance equipment that will be needed with your above ground pool.


Thursday, May 22, 2014

How to Shop for an Above Ground Swimming Pool

The first question most folks ask us is "what is a cost of a swimming pool"?  The price of purchasing an above ground pool can range from $500 to $45,000. 

Unfortunately, many people run into a road block when they research online as to how much an on-ground or above ground swimming pool really is going to cost. This article will help to make the process of shopping for a pool a bit easier.  We'll try to explain what to look for and what items to avoid.

Choosing the type of Pool:
 
There are two options when it comes to deciding on what type of pool you may want.  They are:
1. Above Ground Pools
2. In-Ground Pools

Although there are endless options the main things to know about the two main categories are:
 
1. Above Ground Pools are portable.  You move, you can take your pool.
2. In-Ground pools are a permanent fixed item.  You'll need to consider this and how long you'll be in your home before you determine what suits your needs.

Material for construction:
 
There are 3 main types of material that most pools are constructed out of including vinyl liner, gunite or concrete and fiberglass.  Each material has benefits and draw backs that need to be considered.  Within the above ground pool category the most common material is a vinyl liner system.  The split between in-ground pools for material is about 50-50 from fiberglass to concrete.

Options:
 
With any pool design you want to get a professional experienced pool planner to help you think through how you'll be using the pool and all the surrounding area.  Proper planning ensures your family can safely enjoy this backyard space.  Additionally, you'll want to make sure you take time to organize your pool budget so it has enough funds to ensure all local municipal codes are met.

Cost:
 
For most people a great option to get a lot of pool for the money and still have the ability to relocate the pool an above ground pool is the way to go.  Within the above ground pool market you'll find online hundreds of sizes, shapes, warranties and prices.  Cheap pools like you find in box stores or d-i-y websites typically have a low ball price shown just to get the consumer's interest.  As with most anything, if you buy a low end product you'll be disappointed and probably have to replace the item in a year or so.  With today's new technology many of the above ground pools are so well built they last for a very long time.  These pools also have decks, fencing, pumps and filters all included in a package price.

The cheapo pools from the box stores run from $250-3,000, plus you need to hire someone to install it.  A high end pool such as the Kayak (a rectangular pool) will cost about $15,000 installed with many features.

Gunite Pools with a side spa, finished pebble bottom and a salt filtration system could price tag in the $50,000 - $100,000 area.

Tips of Success:
 
First, find a pool company who has been in business a long time.  Check their Better Business Bureau rating.  Ask them for references of people who have one of their pools.  Do not even consider buying the pool online to save a few bucks and then have problems with getting it installed, getting warranty work done, etc.  If you call a pool company and they don't offer to send out a consultant to checkout your yard and take the time to help you plan, move on to another firm.

Pools are wonderful and fun.  They allow families to spend time together, to get exercise and to just relax and enjoy each others company.  Be sure that the pool you pick is right for your needs.