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Getting the Most Value from Your Pool

Investing in a custom pool for your home can not only add value to your home, but it can furnish you with countless opportunities for recreation, as well as the ability to spend quality time with your friends and loved ones.

On that note, here’s some insight on how to get the most value from your pool.

Go with the Right Design Out of the Gate

You might be drawn to the potentially lower costs associated with installing an above-ground pool, but be wary. It’s generally accepted that in-ground pools improve a home’s value, hold their value better, and produce a better overall aesthetic.

There’s also an option for you to create a custom pool design that’s unique to your home, which could potentially increase not only your enjoyment but also the value of the property.

Consider Your Climate

Pools generally improve your quality of life best when installed in a locale that’s hot throughout most of the year. Therefore, the hotter, the better - if you’re thinking about installing a pool.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a pool if you live in a temperate climate. It just means you need to get crafty about the design. Specifically, you should install a heater if you live in a cooler area. With one, you’ll be able to enjoy the pool throughout more of the year.

The Detail in the Surroundings

A pool is about much more than just a pool. You should also consider the area immediately surrounding the pool, the patio, lighting, and landscaping. Adding some other features, like entertainment systems, audio, lighting, a bar, a firepit, and seating, possibly even along with gates, can all increase the atmosphere of the pool, as well as your property’s value.

Maintain It Properly

One more thing to keep in mind with your pool is that you need to maintain it properly in order to get the most value out of it - not just enjoyment but actual value.

Make sure to keep the pH balanced, use algicide where appropriate, and monitor the levels of chlorine; this will help prevent the growth of microbes, keep the water clearer, and make the whole pool more enjoyable to use.

Be Aware of Your Locale and Resale Value

Where you are in the country, literally, is going to impact what sort of return you can get on an investment in a pool.

Generally speaking, cities in southern states tend to return greater investment on pools, because they offer the most value through the summer months.

Working with Houston Area Pool Builders for Success

For any of you reading this that are in or around Houston, if you’re thinking about investing in a custom pool design, the Houston area pool builders you choose to work with can prove central to your success.

Consider working with Ocean Blue Pools, which has several decades of experience serving customers in the Houston area, designing fully custom pools and patios. They use cutting-edge design tools and work closely with their customers to bring their visions for their home to life. You can learn more on their website (link above) as well as see some real-life examples of their work.

For more information about Rock Waterfall Pool and Pool Companies In Houston Texas please visit:- Ocean Blue Pools, Inc.

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The Benefits of Owning a Pool: More Than Just a Luxury

Owning a pool is often considered a luxury, but the benefits extend far beyond its aesthetic appeal or the indulgence of a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.

From health and wellness to entertainment and property value, pools offer a range of advantages that can transform your lifestyle and home. Here’s a quick look at why owning a pool is an investment worth considering, and our recommendation on the best swimming pool company in Houston that can get the job done.

Potential Health and Wellness Benefits

Low-Impact Exercise

Swimming is one of the best low-impact exercises for people of all ages. It offers a full-body workout that strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances flexibility without putting stress on joints. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, joint pain, or those recovering from injuries.

Mental Health and Stress Relief

Water has a natural calming effect on the mind. Taking a swim or simply lounging by the pool can help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation. The rhythmic movements of swimming can also release endorphins, improving mood and mental clarity.

Family Fitness

Having a pool at home encourages the entire family to stay active. Whether it’s swimming laps, playing water polo, or simply splashing around, a pool makes physical activity fun and engaging for everyone.

Enhanced Property Value

Boosts Home Appeal

A well-designed pool can increase the aesthetic appeal of your Texas property. Modern pools with features like infinity edges, waterfalls, or LED lighting create a luxurious ambiance that makes your home stand out.

Increases Market Value

In regions where pools are highly sought after, owning one can significantly boost your property’s market value. Potential buyers often view a pool as a valuable asset, especially in warmer climates.

Long-Term Investment

With proper maintenance, a pool can last for decades, serving as a long-term feature that adds to your home’s overall appeal and functionality.

Entertainment and Social Benefits

Perfect for Gatherings

A pool is a natural focal point for social gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue, a kids’ birthday party, or an elegant evening soiree, a pool provides the perfect backdrop for entertainment.

Family Bonding

Spending time together by the pool can strengthen family bonds. From teaching kids to swim to playing pool games, a backyard pool creates memories that last a lifetime.

Aesthetic and Functional Landscaping

Outdoor Oasis

A pool can transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis. Complementing it with landscaping, lighting, and comfortable furniture can create a serene retreat for relaxation and entertainment.

Customizable Features

Modern pools offer a wide range of customizable features, such as fountains, spas, and tanning ledges, that cater to your lifestyle and preferences.

Year-Round Enjoyment

With heating options, pools can be enjoyed year-round, even in cooler climates. Adding a pool enclosure can extend its usability while keeping debris out.

Long-Term Enjoyment

Multi-Generational Use

Pools are not just for kids or athletes; they can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages, making them a multi-generational asset.

Timeless Appeal

Unlike many home features that go out of style, a well-maintained pool retains its appeal and usability over the years.

The Best Swimming Pool Company in Houston

Owning a pool is much more than a status symbol; it’s an investment in health, happiness, and quality of life. From creating a private sanctuary to promoting an active lifestyle and enhancing property value, a pool offers countless benefits. With proper planning and maintenance, and the right pool specialists, a new pool can transform your home into a hub of relaxation, entertainment, and wellness, providing enjoyment for years to come.

When it comes to installing pools, no one does it better than Ocean Blue Pools in the Houston area. They are the best swimming pool company in Houston and have the reviews and reputation to back it up. Visit them online today and give them a call to get started!

 For more information about Rock Waterfalls For Pools and Pool Companies In Houston Texas please visit:- Ocean Blue Pools, Inc.

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Working with a Custom Pool Contractor in Houston: Notes for Success

Two things: if you are in the Houston, Texas area and you are considering upgrading your home with a bespoke pool and patio for this spring and summer, then this is the page you should be on.

It will take you through a very high-level process for planning out the project. Once you have your notes together from what this post suggests, you can get to working with a custom pool contractor in Houston to complete the project.

Envision the Pool

The first and most important part of this exercise is that you start considering your vision for the actual pool.

First off, figure out whether you want an in-ground or above ground pool.

If you get an in-ground pool, you may enjoy more flexibility with the layout, shape and overall design of the pool and its features.

Now, how big (in terms of volume) do you want this pool to be?

What size and shape do you want the pool to be, as well?

Once you have those details hammered out, consider also where you want the pool to be on the lot.

Then, you can also start determining what sort of liner or substrate you want on the bottom of the pool, as well as what sorts of concrete or stonework you want around the pool. Will you have a rock waterfall? Will access to the pool be gated? Will there be a diving board or other features incorporated into the pool’s design? These are some of the things you will want to think over.

At this point you should also consider lighting. That may become an item later in the process, but if you want underwater lighting built into the design of the pool, you’ll want to square that away early on.

Think Beyond the Pool

When it comes to outfitting your home with a pool, oftentimes it’s about so much more than just the pool, and you need to plan for it.

Will your outdoor space have a patio? On that patio will you have an overhang? Do you want a wet bar? What sorts of lighting and entertainment do you want poolside? Do you want yard games or a firepit?

Now is the time to settle these (and other) questions. You should also think about landscaping at this point, too, as some contractors can help you out with landscaping.

Come up with a Budget

Now that you have your basic vision for your pool laid out, you need to come up with a budget that you’re going to be reasonably comfortable spending.

You just need a rough estimate at this point so you can figure out how much you can afford; most contractors will be willing to work with you to develop a project and a figure that makes you both happy.

So don’t get too stressed at this point. You just need to know where to start.

Select a Custom Pool Contractor in Houston and Make It Happen

Your vision is ready, you know what you want to spend - now it’s time to start the search for a custom pool contractor in Houston that can get the job done. That’s where Ocean Blue Pools comes in. They are highly regarded as the best choice in the area when it comes to custom pools. Give them a call to get started, and they can help bring your vision to life!

For more information about Rock Waterfall Pool and Houston Swimming Pool Builders please visit:- Ocean Blue Pools, Inc.

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Designing (and Building) a Pool That Offers an Enhanced Experience and Greater Enjoyment  

Adding a pool to your home’s backyard can furnish you with lots of opportunities for recreation with friends and loved ones, and creating an outdoor entertaining space can expand the usable and livable areas of your home, improving resale value.

In short, there are plenty of reasons to add a pool to your home (though we won’t get into that here), but at the same time, some pools produce a better experience than others.

Here are some things to consider building into the design of your pool that will result in a superior experience (and add more value).

Pool Heaters

For those in temperate climates, the addition of a pool heater can totally revolutionize the experience. Let’s face it, getting into a cool, or even lukewarm pool, when the temperature is less than blazing hot is not a pleasant experience.

The range of comfortable water temperatures is much lower than the range of comfortable air temperatures. That’s just a fact. Adding a pool heater will make your pool usable for longer, extending your enjoyment through other months of the year when you might otherwise have kept it covered.

The bottom line? Add a pool heater to your pool and use it earlier and keep it out later.

Pool Lights

Pool lights obviously improve safety. But ambient lighting with an eye on improving safety is not the reason this is being brought up. It’s ambient lighting for the sake of ambiance.

Underwater lights suffuse the entire pool with a seductive glow. More importantly, they cast that glow upwards on the area around the pool, too. This improves the poolside mood and creates an immersive experience that is much better than it would be if all you had was overhead lighting.

Include a Waterfall and Grotto

Including a waterfall into the design of your pool has a lot of practical benefits. It helps circulate the water, keeping it cooler on hot days, and it also increases pool chemical circulation. A waterfall also helps drown out competing white noise.

But our suggestion is to build a waterfall because it will enable you to create a pool grotto behind it, which is a cozy, intimate little nook that will increase your enjoyment of your pool (and again, add value).

Add a Pool House

A pool house (if you’re unfamiliar) is a small structure that gives users areas to change, use the restroom, or relax in the shade. Depending on the size of the pool house and the facilities it offers, it can also be a place to house guests in the short term, sort of like a private, detached sweet. Adding a pool house to your patio or yard will also increase the usable square footage of your home, thereby increasing value.

Add an Outdoor Kitchen

Lastly, add an outdoor kitchen to your patio, complete with a sink, counter space, wet bar, and grill. Add some lights, fans, a TV or entertainment system, a firepit and table with seating, and you’ve just doubled the size of your entertaining space, if not more! An outdoor kitchen will give you plentiful opportunities for entertaining and recreation, and on top of that, will increase the value of your home.

Working with Pool Builders in Houston

For those of you in the Houston area looking at this, consider working with Ocean Blue Pools, a pool builder in Houston with 30 years of experience.

They use advanced design software, enabling the visualization of a space before construction begins, and offer a variety of services to ensure you can completely customize your vision for your outdoor space.

Also, though they’re a pool builder in Houston, they also serve the surrounding areas, like Katy, Conroe and Fresno - so if you’re in the area, reach out.

For more information about Pebble Tech and Swimming Pool Company Houston please visit:- Ocean Blue Pools, Inc.

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Avoiding Pitfalls When Installing a Large Pool: Why Professionals Are Essential  

Installing a large pool is a major undertaking, one that can significantly enhance your property’s value and create a space for family fun, relaxation, and fitness. However, pool installation is far from simple—it requires meticulous planning, expertise, and precise execution.

Without the proper knowledge, you could encounter costly mistakes that might turn your backyard dream into a logistical nightmare. Here's a detailed look at the common pitfalls to avoid when installing a large pool and why relying on professional pool builders is the best way to ensure a smooth process.

Common Pitfalls in DIY Pool Installation

1. Inadequate Planning

One of the most significant mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the planning phase. Installing a pool involves more than digging a hole and filling it with water. You need to account for:

Permits and zoning laws: Ignoring local regulations can lead to fines or even pool removal.

Site selection: Poor positioning can result in drainage issues, excessive debris from nearby trees, or safety hazards.

Pool size and design: A mismatch between the pool's size and the available space can cause functional and aesthetic problems.

2. Improper Ground Preparation

The ground beneath your pool must be stable and level. Skipping steps like soil testing or grading can lead to structural issues, such as:

Pool shifting or sinking over time.

Cracks in the pool shell due to uneven support.

3. Underestimating Costs

DIY pool projects often run over budget because homeowners fail to consider hidden expenses, such as:

Excavation surprises (e.g., hitting bedrock or underground utilities).

Additional materials for reinforcing the pool structure.

Landscaping and pool deck construction.

4. Inadequate Plumbing and Electrical Work

Pool plumbing and electrical systems are complex and require professional knowledge. Mistakes in these areas can lead to:

Inefficient filtration, resulting in dirty or unsafe water.

Faulty wiring, posing electrical hazards or causing equipment failures.

5. Skipping Safety Features

DIY projects sometimes overlook essential safety features, such as fencing, pool covers, and alarms. This oversight can lead to accidents, particularly if you have children or pets.

6. Incorrect Material Choices

Selecting the wrong materials for your pool liner, tiles, or decking can result in durability issues, frequent repairs, and higher maintenance costs.

Why Professional Installation Is the Best Choice

Hiring professional pool installers like Ocean Blue Pools eliminates the guesswork and ensures your project is completed efficiently, safely, and up to code. Here’s why working with experts is essential:

1. Expert Knowledge and Experience

Professionals have years of experience and are trained to handle every aspect of pool installation, from design to execution. They can:

Conduct accurate site assessments.

Recommend the best pool type (in-ground, fiberglass, concrete, etc.) for your needs.

Handle unexpected challenges, such as poor soil conditions or utility line conflicts.

2. Access to High-Quality Materials

Professional installers have access to premium materials and equipment that may not be available to the average homeowner. This ensures your pool will be durable, long-lasting, and visually stunning.

3. Compliance With Local Laws and Regulations

Navigating permits and zoning laws can be overwhelming. Professionals are well-versed in local codes and can handle the paperwork for you, ensuring that your pool complies with all regulations.

4. Proper Groundwork and Structural Integrity

Expert installers will:

Conduct soil testing to ensure the ground is stable.

Level and reinforce the pool base properly.

Use advanced techniques to prevent future issues, such as cracking or shifting.

How to Choose the Right Professional Pool Installer

When selecting a pool installer, look for the following qualities:

Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record and positive reviews.

Licensing and Insurance: Verify that they are licensed and insured to protect against accidents.

Portfolio: Ask to see examples of their previous work.

Transparency: Ensure they provide clear contracts and estimates.

Customer Service: Choose a company that communicates well and prioritizes your satisfaction.

If you’re located in the Houston area, we recommend Ocean Blue Pools, as they have been servicing the area for a while and have a stellar reputation when it comes to beautiful pool installations.

Want a Large Pool in Your Yard? Hire the Pros!

While installing a large pool might seem like an exciting DIY project, the risks and complexities involved can lead to costly mistakes. By hiring professionals, you’re investing in a stress-free process and a high-quality pool that will bring joy for years to come.

Ready to bring your pool dreams to life? Contact a trusted pool installation company like Ocean Blue Pools today and take the first step toward creating your perfect backyard retreat!

For more information about Pebble Tech and Houston Pool Builders please visit:- Ocean Blue Pools, Inc.

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The Importance of Hiring Professional Pool Contractors with a Proven History of Success  

Installing a swimming pool in your yard is a significant investment and an exciting project that can enhance your home’s value, aesthetics, and your family’s quality of life.

However, the success of this endeavor largely hinges on the pool contractor you choose. Opting for professional pool contractors with a proven track record of success is not just a recommendation—it’s essential for ensuring a hassle-free, high-quality pool installation experience. Here’s why.

Expertise and Experience Lead to Superior Results

Professional pool builders bring years of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring that your pool is constructed to meet industry standards. These experts have handled a wide range of projects, from simple backyard pools to complex designs with custom features like infinity edges, waterfalls, or integrated spas.

Their experience allows them to:

Navigate complex installations.

Troubleshoot potential issues before they arise.

Deliver a pool that meets your expectations in terms of functionality, durability, and aesthetics.

Contractors with a proven history of success have honed their skills over time, earning their reputation through consistently excellent work.

Compliance with Local Laws and Regulations

Building a pool isn’t as simple as digging a hole and filling it with water. It requires adherence to local building codes, zoning laws, and safety standards. Experienced pool contractors are familiar with these regulations and ensure that your pool complies with all legal requirements.

For example, if you’re located in Texas you want to work with a company like Ocean Blue Pools that has a long track record of building high-end pools in Houston and the surrounding areas.

Failing to meet these standards can lead to:

Costly fines.

Delays in the project.

Potential safety hazards down the road.

A professional contractor ensures that every detail, from fencing requirements to drainage, is handled properly, saving you from potential legal and financial headaches.

High-Quality Materials and Equipment

A reputable pool builder will have access to the best materials and equipment on the market. They understand which products offer superior durability, performance, and aesthetic appeal, ensuring your pool not only looks great but also stands the test of time.

Subpar materials may save money upfront, but they can lead to frequent repairs, higher maintenance costs, and a shorter pool lifespan. Contractors with a strong track record prioritize quality to protect their reputation and your investment.

Avoiding Costly Mistakes

DIY or hiring inexperienced contractors may seem like a cost-saving measure, but it often leads to expensive mistakes. Common issues include:

Improper grading, causing drainage problems.

Poor plumbing installation, leading to leaks.

Inadequate reinforcement, resulting in structural failures.

Fixing these mistakes can cost more than hiring a professional in the first place. Contractors with a proven history of success have the expertise to avoid these pitfalls, saving you time and money.

Hire Experienced Pool Builders in Your Area to Get the Best Results

Building a pool is a dream project for many homeowners, but it’s also a complex undertaking that requires expertise, precision, and careful planning. By hiring a professional pool contractor with a proven history of success, you’re not only ensuring a high-quality result but also saving yourself from unnecessary stress, delays, and expenses.

Whether you’re creating a serene retreat or a lively entertainment hub, entrusting your project to experienced professionals like Ocean Blue Pools is the best way to bring your vision to life. Your pool is an investment in your home and lifestyle—choose a contractor who values it as much as you do.

For more information about Pool Contractors Houston and Pebble Tech please visit:- Ocean Blue Pools, Inc.

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On the Health Benefits of Swimming  

Thinking of looking for a swimming pool company in Houston to outfit your home with a custom pool?

Well, on top of the fact that a pool can increase your home’s overall entertainment space, add resale value to your home, and furnish you with endless opportunities for recreation with friends and loved ones, swimming is great for your health, too.

Here are just a few of the ways that swimming supports overall health.

Support Attaining Your Weight Loss Goals

Swimming is a calorie burner. An average-sized person burns close to 500 calories swimming for an hour at a leisurely pace. Swim at a more vigorous pace, and that figure bumps up to 700, or more. It is a whole-body workout that burns calories much more efficiently and quickly than many other pursuits.

Tone and Strengthen Muscles

Swimming works your whole body, and utilizes both large and small muscle groups. It can strengthen and tone muscles, and build endurance and stamina, too. Moreover, there are many different styles and strokes you can try that focus on different muscle groups, such as sidestroke and backstroke, which target different muscle groups.

Improve Cardiovascular Health

Swimming doesn’t just tone your skeletal muscles. It gives your heart and lungs a real workout too, increasing lung capacity, circulation, and importantly, strengthening the heart. Some studies have shown that swimming not only improves cardiovascular health, but that it can also help with blood pressure and blood sugar regulation. The benefits to the respiratory system may be able to help people with asthma, too.

Improve Flexibility

Since swimming works out your entire body, it can help improve flexibility, too, which is perhaps the most often-overlooked component of physical fitness, despite the fact that it supports the others.

It’s Low Impact

Swimming is a low-impact activity, which means it doesn’t place a lot of strain on your muscles, bones and joints, even though it provides excellent resistance. This helps prevent inflammation of the joints and tendons, and it makes swimming safer, too. It just so happens that swimming is one of the few physical activities that’s relatively safe during pregnancy.

Manage Stress

There are studies that suggest swimming can help individuals manage feelings of stress. In one of them, only about 8% of a group of swimmers indicated feelings of stress and depression after swimming, whereas previously nearly 44% had - so swimming may not just help with chronic, but with acute stress. Swimming has also been demonstrated to boost and uplift the mood.

Improved Sleep

As many as 50% of older adults experience some form of insomnia, and the number may be as high as 40% among younger adults, too. Fortunately, swimming may be able to help relax you and help you get better sleep. It’s also one of the few physical activities that is suitable for basically all age groups - so nearly anyone can reap the benefits of better sleep through swimming.

Work with a Swimming Pool Company in Houston

Thinking about adding a pool to your home? If you’re in Texas, in the Houston area, you may be in luck.

Get in touch with Ocean Blue Pools, who for nearly 30 years has served as a trusted swimming pool company in Houston (while also serving the surrounding areas).

Ocean Blue Pools uses the latest technology to design custom pools, patios, landscaping and backyard kitchen, and then brings those visions to life.

You can learn more on their website, see examples of their previous work, or get in touch with them directly at 281-858-8000 to get the wheels of your project in motion.

For more information about Pebble Tech and Pool Builders Houston please visit:- Ocean Blue Pools, Inc.