Hive Outdoor Living

custom pools Tampa Bay

Backyard Plunge Pools

How to Style Your Backyard Plunge Pools?

Backyard plunge pools add luxury to your outdoor living. Although they are smaller in size, they create a serene retreat right in your own backyard.  Whether you are looking for a refreshing escape from the summer heat or a tranquil spot for unwinding after a long day, you will always appreciate this little yet enchanting splash haven.  Best thing? You can style your plunge pool to make it look more attractive and functional.  Explore innovative concepts and practical strategies for refining the allure of your backyard plunge pool. Define Your Style:  Before delving into design, take a moment to articulate your style preferences and the atmosphere you aim to cultivate. Are you inclined towards contemporary sophistication or do you lean towards a more organic, rustic charm? Consider factors such as color palette, materials, and architectural elements that complement your existing outdoor space and reflect your personal taste. Focus on Functionality:  Sure. Aesthetics are important. But equally important are the functional and practice aspect of your backyard plunge pools.  Evaluate your backyard’s layout to pinpoint the optimal positioning for the pool, factoring in elements like sunlight exposure, privacy, and accessibility. Additionally, consider incorporating features such as built-in seating, storage solutions, and lighting to enhance the usability and convenience of the space. Create a Relaxing Atmosphere:  To turn your backyard plunge pool into a serene oasis, consider the ambiance and mood of the space.  You can install elements like soft lighting, soothing water features, and lush greenery to promote relaxation and tranquillity. Incorporating natural materials like stone, wood, and bamboo can further enhance the calming atmosphere and create a seamless connection with the outdoors. Choose Stylish Furnishings:  Selecting the right furnishings can instantly elevate the style and comfort of your plunge pool area.  Opt for weather-resistant materials such as rattan, wicker, or aluminum that can withstand the elements and require minimal maintenance.  Consider adding lounge chairs, daybeds, or hammocks for lounging and sunbathing, along with umbrellas or shade sails to provide relief from the sun’s rays. Enhance with Landscaping:  Integrating landscaping elements around your plunge pool can enhance its visual appeal and create a lush backdrop for relaxation. Infuse the surroundings with a blend of foliage, trees, and blossoms to introduce splashes of color, varied textures, and captivating scents.  Opt for plant varieties suited to your local climate, emphasizing low-maintenance options such as indigenous species or those resilient to drought conditions.  Consider integrating potted plants, suspended baskets, or vertical gardens to amplify greenery while conserving ground space.  Add Personal Touches:  How about infusing your personality into the design of your backyard swimming pools? You can do this by adding personal touches and accents that reflect your aesthetic sense.  For example, you can display outdoor artwork, sculptures, or decorative objects that reflect your tastes.  Alternatively, contemplate the installation of a water feature or fountain as a focal point, or contemplate incorporating a fire pit or outdoor fireplace to enrich the ambiance for tranquil evenings spent by the poolside. Don’t forget to include creature comforts such as plush towels, outdoor rugs, and throw pillows to enhance the comfort and coziness of the space. Embrace Technology:  Incorporating technology into your plunge pool design can enhance both its functionality and entertainment value.  Consider installing a sound system for listening to music while lounging poolside, or add underwater LED lighting for a dramatic nighttime ambiance.  Automated pool maintenance systems will help keep your pool in top form. For this, you can install robotic cleaners or smart filtration systems.  Focus on Safety:  Last but certainly not least, prioritize safety when designing and styling your plunge pool area. Install appropriate barriers, fencing, or safety covers to prevent accidents and unauthorized access, especially if you have children or pets.  Consider adding non-slip surfaces around the pool deck and stairs to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Besides, make sure that all electrical outlets and wiring are installed to code to minimize the risk of electrical hazards. Over to You… With careful planning and thoughtful design choices, you can transform your backyard plunge pool into a stylish and inviting retreat that you’ll love to enjoy year-round.  Whether you prefer a minimalist modern aesthetic or a lush tropical paradise, there are endless possibilities for creating a personalized oasis that suits your lifestyle and enhances your outdoor living experience.  So dive in, get creative, and let your imagination guide you as you style your backyard plunge pool into a true sanctuary of relaxation and enjoyment. If you are not sure, tap into the expertise of our pool builders in Tampa, Florida. Backed by experience and technology, we can design your backyard plunge pools to your vision. Our services are available for both new pool construction and swimming pool remodeling in Tampa and around. Get in touch now! 

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Black Bottom Pools

Your Guide to Black Bottom Pools: Pros, Cons, Materials, and Cost

Although dark bottom pools have been around for a while, they’re now a popular choice. Despite the name, these pools can be dark gray or blue, depending on your yard, design, and the time of day. People love these dark pools because they’re unique. They stand out from other pools in the neighborhood and make a big impression. However, consider several factors such as cost, materials, and pros and cons if you are looking to build one. Here we have come up with this guide to help you make an informed decision.  What are the Advantages of Black Bottom Pools? Heating Efficiency: One of the standout features of black bottom pools is their exceptional heating efficiency. Thanks to their dark color, these pools absorb sunlight more effectively, naturally warming the water. This inherent heat retention ability can lead to significant savings on utility bills, making black bottom pools both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Unlike lighter-colored pools, which reflect sunlight, the darker hue of black bottom pools ensures that they retain warmth efficiently, even on cooler days. Aesthetics and Design Flexibility: Beyond their practical benefits, black bottom pools serve as stunning aesthetic centerpieces in any backyard setting. The deep, dark surface of these pools creates a striking contrast against the surrounding greenery, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the outdoor space. Whether your backyard boasts a modern, minimalist design or a lush, tropical landscape, a black bottom pool can seamlessly integrate into various themes, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. Moreover, the rich blue hues emitted by the pool under different lighting conditions add an extra layer of visual interest, appealing to homeowners who prioritize design flexibility and aesthetics. Durability Against Algae Growth: Another significant advantage of black bottom pools is their durability against algae growth. Research indicates that the dark pigmentation of these pools discourages the formation of light-dependent algae, minimizing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance. By investing in a black bottom pool and adhering to proper maintenance practices, homeowners can enjoy a pristine swimming environment with minimal effort, freeing up time for other activities. Understanding the Potential Drawbacks of Black Bottom Pools  Limited Visibility: While the dark surface may look beautiful from afar, it can pose challenges for swimmers in terms of depth perception. This lack of clarity may increase the risk of accidents, as it becomes harder to gauge the pool’s depth accurately. Additionally, debris or foreign objects may go unnoticed in the water due to reduced visibility, potentially posing safety hazards for swimmers. Safety Regulations: In some areas, local safety regulations may restrict the installation of black bottom pools due to their darker coloration. Authorities often view darker pool surfaces as a safety hazard, particularly for young children or inexperienced swimmers. Maintenance Requirements: Maintaining the deep blue hue of a black bottom pool requires special attention and care. Unlike lighter-colored pools, dirt and debris are not easily visible on the dark surface, making it challenging to detect and remove impurities. As a result, black bottom pool owners may need to invest in professional cleaning services and carefully balance chemicals to prevent discoloration or damage to the pool’s surface over time. Cost: Opting for a black bottom pool may incur higher costs compared to the conventional blue or white finishes. Any deviation from the standard pool design typically comes with additional expenses. Given that the majority of pools feature blue or white hues, selecting a black bottom pool often involves paying a premium price. Understanding the Materials of Black Bottom Pools Concrete, a common choice, offers durability albeit with a slightly lighter hue. Fiberglass, pricier but boasting a darker pigment, suits those seeking deep coloration. Lastly, vinyl liners provide affordability but may require frequent replacement and are susceptible to chlorine damage, resulting in color lightening. Given the luxury status of dark bottom pools, concrete or fiberglass typically offers the best balance of longevity and aesthetics. Ultimately, weighing cost, durability, and desired color intensity guides the selection process, ensuring your black bottom pool meets both practical and visual preferences.  What Does it Cost to Build a Black Bottom Pool?  A black bottom pool may be costly compared to other types of pools. The cost of building a black bottom pool can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the size, shape, materials used, location, labor costs, and additional features. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $25,000 to $50,000 for a basic black bottom pool installation. However, for larger or more complex designs with high-end features, the cost can exceed $100,000. It’s essential to consult with a pool contractor to get an accurate estimate based on your specific requirements and local market conditions. They can provide insights into the costs involved and help you design a black bottom pool that fits your budget and preferences. Additionally, keep in mind that ongoing maintenance and operational costs should also be factored into your budgeting considerations. Design and Build Your Black Bottom Pool with Us! For those seeking the epitome of beauty, functionality, and luxury in their swimming pool, the black bottom option is an obvious choice. If you’re planning a black bottom pool in Tampa, Florida, reach out to Hive Outdoor Living. We’re here to schedule a meeting and turn your dream of a stunning black bottom pool into reality.

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Stunning Pool in Lakewood Ranch

Beautiful Decking Ideas for a Stunning Pool in Lakewood Ranch

A pool has become an essential backyard feature, especially if you are living in a hot and humid region like Lakewood Ranch. While swings, flowerbeds, and a nicely trimmed lawn can make the space look amazing, a swimming pool turns the landscape into a great escape to relax and have fun. And having a beautiful and functional deck is like the cherry on top. After all, you need a good surface to place your lounge chairs, dining tables, and other furniture and enough space to walk around those items. If you are looking to turn your regular pool into a stunning pool in Lakewood Ranch or elsewhere, you can consider overhauling your existing deck or creating a new one.  Pool decks and patios are made of a variety of materials such as pavers, concrete, wood, stone, tile, and brick. Over the years, many US homeowners have realized the importance of having a good poolside environment. As designing the deck has become as important as the pool itself, the decking market has hit the $1 billion mark in 2022. The ever-increasing demand for creating a unique poolside environment has led to a wide variety of decking options in the market. They can transform your backyard space into anything from a wild party night spot to a calm, relaxing oasis. In this blog, we will walk through some outstanding decking ideas to create a stunning pool in Lakewood Ranch. Travertine Elegance: For a timeless and sophisticated look, consider travertine decking. The natural stone exudes elegance and pairs beautifully with the lush surroundings of Lakewood Ranch. Travertine is known for its cool-to-touch surface, making it perfect for hot Florida days. Its earthy tones, ranging from ivory to walnut, complement the pool’s blue waters, creating a harmonious and visually pleasing atmosphere. Composite Decking for Low Maintenance: If you prefer a decking material that requires minimal upkeep without compromising on aesthetics, composite decking is an excellent choice. With a wide range of colors and textures to choose from, composite decking mimics the look of natural wood but stands strong against the elements. It’s resistant to fading, staining, and mold, making it an ideal option for the humid climate of Lakewood Ranch. Tropical Hardwood Oasis: Embrace the tropical vibe of Lakewood Ranch by opting for hardwood decking made from exotic woods like Ipe or Cumaru. These hardwoods not only withstand the harsh Florida weather but also bring a touch of luxury to your pool area. The rich, dark hues and distinctive grain patterns create a warm and inviting space. It is perfect for lounging under the sun or hosting poolside gatherings. Pavers for Versatility: Pavers offers a versatile and durable decking solution that can be customized to match your style. Choose from a variety of shapes, colors, and patterns to create a unique design that complements your pool’s surroundings. The non-slip surface of pavers makes them a safe choice for pool areas. Plus, their ability to withstand the test of time ensures your deck remains stunning for years to come. Decking with Built-In Seating: Maximize both form and function by incorporating built-in seating into your deck design. Low-profile seating along the edges of the deck not only adds a contemporary flair but also provides a convenient place for poolside lounging or socializing. Consider adding cushions in weather-resistant fabrics to enhance comfort and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Multi-Level Decks for Visual Interest: Elevate your poolside experience by creating a multi-level deck that adds visual interest and depth to the space. Different levels can be designated for various activities, such as sunbathing, dining, or enjoying a refreshing beverage. This design not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also allows for seamless integration with the natural contours of your Lakewood Ranch property. LED Lighting for Night time Ambiance: To extend the enjoyment of your pool area into the evening hours, incorporate LED lighting into your deck design. Install lights along the edges of the deck, under steps, or even within the pool itself to create a mesmerizing nighttime ambiance. LED lights not only enhance safety but also add a touch of magic to your Lakewood Ranch pool, turning it into a captivating oasis after the sun goes down. The Conclusion: In Lakewood Ranch, where luxury living meets natural beauty, a stunning pool deserves an equally impressive deck. You can choose from the timeless elegance of travertine, the low maintenance of composite decking, or the tropical allure of hardwood. There are countless ways to transform your pool area into a stylish and functional retreat. Consider the unique features of each decking option and choose the one that best suits your tastes and lifestyle. With the right deck, your Lakewood Ranch pool will become the focal point of outdoor living, providing a space where you can relax, entertain, and create lasting memories. So incorporate any of these decking ideas to convert your ordinary pool into a stunning pool in Lakewood Ranch!

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Pinellas County Pool Builder

Choosing the Right Fence for Your Pinellas County Pool: Types and Tips

A pool fence refers to a type of barrier installed around swimming pool to restrict the access of kids to the pool (especially when you are not around). Apart from addressing safety concerns, it boosts your pool’s aesthetics. If you are looking to install a fence for your Pinellas County pool, it is important to know your options as well as what to keep in mind. To help you, here is a rundown of some popular pool fences you can get installed by our Pinellas County pool builder. Glass Panel Fence: Glass panel fencing, as the name suggests, is made from tempered glass. It is quite robust and can last long if given a good maintenance. Glass panel enhances the visual appeal of your pool. But the best thing to go for it is that it is a transparent barrier. Due to its transparency, you can see beyond the fencing.  But glass panel fencing also comes with some downsides. You need to keep it clean and sparkling all the time. Also, they are costlier than other fencing types. Glass is likely to develop scratches over time. Therefore, you need to set a serious cleaning and maintenance routine for your glass panel fencing. Vertical Bar Fence: Vertical bar fence may not be your pick if you want to make your pool look more sophisticated. But vertical bar fence is still preferred by many homeowners. It is made of durable material and can resist any impact. This is because it is made from wrought iron, wood or aluminum. But all vertical bar fencing comes with their advantages and disadvantages. Although wrought iron fences won’t hinder your view, they are prone to corrosion over time. Wood fencing gives a rustic vibe and is available in a variety of colors and type of wood. But it can obstruct the natural view of the pool. Vertical fencing varieties offer ample airflow thanks to their spacious gaps. Make sure to be careful with the gaps between the fencing bars as most states don’t allow more than four inches in width. According to the Florida building code, the gap between vertical parts should not be more than 1 3/4 inches (44 mm) wide. If there are decorative openings in the vertical parts, the spaces within them should also not exceed 1 3/4 inches (44 mm) in width. Removable Mesh Pool Fence: Removable mesh pool fences are highly recommended fences for home swimming pools. Thanks to their transparency, customizability, user-friendly nature, affordability, and, of course, their removable design. These fences, equipped with gates and sections, are not only easy to install but also provide a clear view of the pool area. The key safety feature lies in their design, making it difficult for children to climb. The absence of gaps or footholds prevents kids from using the fence for support, ensuring enhanced security. It’s crucial, however, to choose quality posts to avoid potential hazards. Lower-quality posts may bend, snap, or break, risking a child getting trapped in the mesh. Remember, opting for higher tensile strength in the posts ensures a safer and more reliable pool fence. What to Keep in Mind While Choosing Swimming Pool Safety Fences? Easy Maintenance and Cleaning: Pool areas are prone to splashes, water exposure, and varying weather conditions. Opt for fencing materials that are resistant to rust, corrosion, and discoloration. PVC, aluminum, and glass are popular choices for their durability and minimal maintenance requirements. Regular cleaning should be hassle-free to ensure the fence’s longevity and aesthetic appeal. Durability to Resist Impact: A pool safety fence should act as a robust barrier, preventing accidental entries by kids or pets. Choose a fencing material that is durable and sturdy, capable of withstanding impact without compromising its structural integrity. This not only ensures the safety of your loved ones but also minimizes the risk of the fence being knocked down accidentally. Aluminum and wrought iron are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. Child-Proof Door Mechanism: The door or gate of the pool safety fence is a critical component. It should have a child-proof locking mechanism that cannot be easily opened by young children. Consider options such as self-latching or self-closing gates with a latch that is positioned out of reach of small hands. Regularly check and maintain the locking mechanism to ensure it continues to function properly. Height Matters: A crucial factor in the effectiveness of a pool safety fence is its height. The fence should be at least 4 feet tall to prevent easy climbing by children. This height acts as a deterrent, making it difficult for kids to scale the fence and gain access to the pool area unsupervised. Additionally, ensure that the vertical slats or openings in the fence are narrow enough to prevent a child from squeezing through. Choose the Right Installer: Make sure to choose the right Pinellas County pool builder who can understand your requirements and can suggest the better options. The Bottom Line: Swimming pool fence are an important feature to ensure the safety and prevent the drowning incidents, especially if you have kids or elderly at home. They also enhance the appearance of your pool. Given that there are many fence types to choose from, make sure to pick the one that can fulfill your requirements. Any good Pinellas County pool builder can help you with that. If you are looking for one, we at Hive Outdoor Living offer quality fence installation services to address your security concerns. Reach out to our Pinellas County Pool builders now!

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Swimming pool remodeling in Madeira Beach

Swimming Pool Remodeling In Madeira Beach: What to Know

Looking to overhaul your swimming pool in Madeira Beach? While improving the functionality or aesthetics of your lovely pool can be exciting, the process can be overwhelming if you are not familiar with all the aspects of pool remodeling. It requires you to go through thoughtful consideration to ensure a successful and satisfying transformation. From those aesthetic upgrades to functional improvements, every detail plays an important role in improving your pool’s appeal and performance. Understanding your preference, whether for recreation or fitness, is important in customizing the pool remodeling to meet those requirements. Fret not! Here we have come up with key things you should consider during your swimming pool remodeling in Madeira Beach. Upgrade the Technology: Maybe your outdated pool is costing you a lot of money. For example, a single-speed version pump consumes excessive electricity. You can replace it by installing an energy-efficient variable-speed pump to boost circulation, cleaning, and water features utilizing the minimum amount of energy required for each task. Similarly, replacing your pool heating system with an advanced one will warm your pool more efficiently and even keep it cool in the heat. Modern natural gas heaters come with high thermal efficiency ratings for quick heating and low NOx output levels for a healthier environment. Switching to modern pump and heating systems will not only make your pool more technologically advanced but also energy efficient. Therefore, it should be considered while doing a swimming pool remodel. Enhance Your Pool Surface: Pool surfaces are generally replaced every 5 to 20 years based on the finish and the maintenance of water chemistry. Therefore, resurfacing your pool is one of the key tasks to be considered while getting your swimming pool remodeling in Madeira Beach done. Changing the surface of your pool doesn’t have to impact the shape and shell of the pool as you need to replace the finish layer. However, you need to do it if you are looking to change the shape and depth of your pool. And while you are going through it, why not upgrade your waterline tile to the subtle tones of a stone look, add glossy tiles, and raise your elegance with glass tiles? Add a Water Feature: What about adding a dash of drama to your swimming pool remodel? Create an engaging focal point by installing water features such as spouting sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, streams, and deck-based laminar jets that get into the pool surface. These can be added to your existing pool design. You can also install natural stones and tropical plants outside the pool to accentuate those water elements and turn your ordinary pool into a spectacular backyard haven. Upgrade Your Pool Lighting: One of the key features to consider during your swimming pool remodeling in Madeira is pool lighting. While lights are key elements in pool safety, they create the ultimate, welcoming outdoor after-dark. Some of the lights you can consider during your pool renovation are… Consider the Safety: Pool safety is as important as other aspects of pool remodeling. Install the latest upgrades to improve your pool safety and reduce risks with railings, ladders, safety nets, pool alarms, optimal plumbing tools, and more. Installing these features will ensure peace of mind knowing your kids, guests and pets are sound and safe while enjoying their pool time. Let Hive Outdoor Help You with Your Swimming Pool Remodeling in Madeira Beach Ready to renovate your pool? Keep in mind that a pool remodel doesn’t have to be challenging. Small adjustments—whether functional or aesthetic—can lead to a big impact. To make the most of your swimming pool remodeling in Madeira Beach, you can reach out to our local pool professionals. Backed by expertise, experience, and technology, we can create the pool of your dreams or renovate the existing one to meet your requirements. Get in touch now to turn your existing swimming pool into a sanctuary of serenity. 

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Pool Builder Tampa - Vanishing Edge Pool Front View

Pool Chemistry Simplified

Let’s face it. There is nothing quite so inviting on a hot day as a crystal clear, well-maintained swimming pool. One significant key to that is your pool’s chemistry. At Hive Outdoor Living, #1 Tampa Bay Pool Builder, we want you to thoroughly enjoy your pool and hope to make taking care of it a little bit easier. Let’s Simplify Your Pool Chemistry. Probably due to the word “chemistry,” many people may feel that keeping their pool’s chemicals in balance to keep the water as pure and clean as possible might end up being quite a chore, a challenge. That is not really the case. The real challenge is after your pool water chemicals get totally out of balance and, as a result, generate costly repairs. Pool Chemistry rests primarily on two points. First, the chlorine level to kill bacteria, germs and stop algae. And second, the pH of the water – the balance between alkalinity and acidity. Depending upon where one lives, you would add water hardness and possibly the levels of iron in the water. The actual meaning of pH is the “potential or power of Hydrogen.” The range of pH extends from 0 (acid) to 14 (alkaline), with 7.0 being neutral. For example, at 77°F pure water is at a pH 7.0, or neutral (neither acidic nor alkaline. This is also referred to as basic. Pool Chemistry Simplified covers your pH and Chlorine levels. WHAT BURNS YOUR EYES First, to dispel certain folklore. There are those who blame things such as urination in a pool for their burning eyes. That is simply not the case. That specific phenomenon is, in most cases, caused by the pH level of the water in which one is swimming. The pH of your eyes is between 7.0 and 7.3. Here is an example of burning eyes sensation when one is not in a pool. Have you ever been exercising, or working hard, causing you to perspire quite a bit? Then, all of a sudden, a few drops of sweat from your hair/scalp hits your eyes. Presto! Eye burn. That is because the pH of your hair/scalp is in the pH 5 range. However, the sweat that is produced lowers to near that pH prior to hitting your eye. At a pH of 5, your hair and scalp are approximately 100 times more acidic than the pH of your eyes. Thus the burning sensation. Now that that point is out of the way… KEEPING A PROPER BALANCE Aside from burning our eyes, pool water that is either too acidic or too alkaline causes certain chemical reactions that can harm your pool/spa and/or your system. When pool water pH is too high, i.e., too alkaline, the water can become cloudy and, worse, scaling can develop in your pool equipment and on the surface of your pool. Too low of a pH, too acidic, can and does corrode metal in your pool equipment and can cause skin irritation. As well, a pH that is either too high or too low reduces the effectiveness of chlorine, your primary defense against algae and pathogens. If your pH is too high, chlorine cannot kill pathogens. If your pH is too low, chlorine dissipates much too rapidly to be effective. The pH level in your pool should be somewhere between 7.4 and 7.6 (though some will say 7.2 to 7.8 is acceptable), slightly on the alkaline or basic side. The pH of swimming pool water can be easily tested with a simple test kit. One popular, inexpensive kit is the Taylor Residential Test Kit. This kit measures Total Chlorine or Bromine (if you decide to use this instead of chlorine) and your pool’s pH level. Ideally, the reagents, the liquids, used for testing should be stored indoors in their plastic container, keeping them away from severe temperature fluctuations. Taylor formulates its reagents to remain effective for at least one year. Therefore, a good practice is to purchase new reagents at the beginning of each swimming season. If you are fortunate enough to live in an area where you can swim year-round, then choose a specific annual date to change to new reagents. The most popular forms of chlorine used today are granulated powder (referred to as Dy-Chlor) or tablets/sticks (Trichloro-s-triazinetrione or trichlor). Chlorine tablets and sticks are very highly-concentrated, offering around 90% chlorine, and take time to dissolve. They are typically placed in dispensers sitting on top of your pool water, though some people place them in their skimmer basket area. Granular chlorine, which is around 56%^ pure chlorine, is scattered over your pool water surface. The choice for chlorine form is dependent upon several factors, particularly pool usage and air and water temperature. After a short time, whichever form you decide to use, a common routine will generally arise and, if followed, will provide a clean environment. TESTING AND ADJUSTING The following are instructions for use with the Taylor kit. Other manufacturer’s may vary slightly, so check their instructions. For chlorine, fill the left cell with pool water, add five drops of the R-0600 solution, cap and invert (do not shake) the water. Compare the color against the chart. The ideal range of Chlorine in your pool is between 2-4ppm (parts per million). For pH, fill the right cell with pool water, add five drops of R-0014 solution, cap and invert (do not shake) the water. Compare the color against the chart. The ideal pH range for your pool (and spa) is between 7.4 and 7.6. If your tests show both within those ranges, you are good to go. If your Chlorine test shows a level below 2ppm you will need to add some chlorine. However, if it is above 4ppm, you should wait and let the level go down before swimming. If you don’t want to wait a few hours, you can add a neutralizing chemical, such as sodium thiosulfate or sodium sulfite. If your pH is above or below the range, you need to adjust

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Pool Builder Tampa - Cute Kid Memory Maker

Tampa Bay Pools Memory Maker

While it is quite accurate that family vacations and weekend getaways can, and do, create cherished memories, it is also true that when you Create Your Own Backyard Paradise you establish a staycation where those family memories can be made on a daily basis. Tampa Bay pools by Hive Outdoor Living are genuine memory makers! Create Your Family Memories There are several things in life that make it rewarding and fulfilling. At the top of the list, for many, that includes not just quality, but abundant family time. One of the absolute best ways to achieve that goal is having a home environment most conducive to making memories. In our opinion that begins with, at a minimum, a family swimming pool. From that basic starting point, the features and options are virtually endless. For instance, you could add a spa to your pool, or incredible water descents, fountains, waterfalls, fire features, dramatic lighting effects, laminars or deck jets, basketball, volleyball. How about an Outdoor Kitchen? And, the list goes on. If You Can Dream It,We Can Build It For You Suffice to say that Hive Outdoor Living is ready to help make your dreams come true. Hive Outdoor Living is the premier Greater Tampa Bay pool contractor with a sole purpose in mind…to provide you and your family with the highest quality outdoor living environment at the best possible cost, using proven materials and equipment, to ensure years of enjoyable family memories. The 3D design tour we offer is a special service to our customers and will assist you in visualizing how your backyard environment will be transformed into your personal resort.  Our Goal is to Exceed Your Expectations

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Pool Builder Tampa - Lakeside Vanishing Edge Pool

Vanishing Edge Pool

One of the more unique and interesting design features is the vanishing edge pool, also known as an infinity pool. Constructed correctly, the pool’s edge, when looked at straight on or at various angles, appears to simply disappear, blending the environment with your water surface. The effect seems to make your pool extend into infinity, hence it’s infinity pool nickname, and the elements with which your water blends could be the skyline, trees, or a bay or lake. If your pool will have a view of a lake or other body of water, a beautiful city skyline, or sitting atop a hilltop, the scenery becomes quite spectacular. Hive Outdoor Living, Tampa Bay’s #1 custom pool builder, has created numerous pools of this type and each of them have their own remarkable impression, created with the flow of water disappearing over the edge combined with a picturesque background. In effect, a vanishing edge pool generates the wonderful illusion of your body of water combining with its scenic environs. The water that flows over the edge is caught in a water trough below, where it is collected, then recirculated and filtered back into your pool. The best pools of this type are constructed and positioned hiding the catch basin from the primary viewing spots in your yard. And, as you can probably imagine, building a pool with a natural slope might add to the ease of construction. That is mostly true. However, the right pool engineering can create this pool marvel even on flat land, where the edge drop is less but the effect remains. A disappearing edge tends to highlight the surroundings and might be the exact feature you need to Create Your Own Backyard Paradise, making it an oasis for family and friends to enjoy life and leisure virtually any day of the year.’ Your Vanishing Edge PoolParadise Is A Phone Call Away

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To Enclose Your Pool Or Not

To enclosure your pool or not is a common question we often hear at Hive Outdoor Living The short answer is, “It depends.” On what does it depend? Several points, actually. An enclosure can actually assist you in many ways taking care of your pool. First and foremost, perhaps, is that an enclosure will dramatically reduce the amount of debris from entering your pool water, especially leaves. And, while many people have an automatic pool cleaner installed, when a lot of leaves and other types of debris enter your water it can take a while before your water is once again crystal clear. An enclosure will help extend the amount of time to enjoy your pool. This ties into helping keep it clean, simply because you are spending less time getting leaves out of your pool so you can actually enjoy swimming. As well, screened enclosures assist in filtering some of the UV rays from the sun. This can result in being able to enjoy your pool for longer lengths of time with a little less worry about sunburns. Of course, living in Florida means there are times of hurricanes and strong winds. Pool enclosures have been designed to generally handle winds up to 120-130 miles per hour, so chances are they will be able to withstand most anything nature throws our way. One of the biggest benefits, however, has to do with being far more comfortable around your pool because their are fewer bugs and insects hoovering around you and your family. While the pests are still able to enter your screened-in area, that generally only occurs when a door to the outside of the pool perimeter is open while they are nearby and they manage to sneak into the enclosed area. Otherwise, your screen is able to protect you from insects and bugs to a very large degree and this definitely increases the amount of fun time for you and your family. Depending upon your design, your screened-in pool becomes an actual extension to your home and living space when connected to your patio roof. You may be able to walk out of your slider and are instantly immersed in your backyard paradise. To be fair, there are a couple of other, possibly less desirable, factors to consider. Screened enclosures are not necessarily maintenance free. Over time, an enclosure may develop mold or mildew which would need to be pressure washed. While the amount of time this would take is far less than cleaning leaves every day, it is something to take into account. The other, which does not happen that often, is when a screen gets torn or damaged. An example may be if a heavy branch were to break free from a large tree and fell into the screen. Not an easy fix when over the pool, but not an impossible task, either. At Hive Outdoor Living we will help you Create Your Own Paradise, with or without a screened enclosure. The choice is entirely up to you. And, if you decide to install an enclosure, there are different styles from which to choose.

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Fire Pits Take Away The Chill

Here in the Greater Tampa Bay Area, swimming can be a year-round activity. Yes, even when the days or evenings can be a little brisk. One way to combat that cool temperature or breeze is with a fire pit or fire bowl. A fire pit, or even a fire bowl, is a great way to stay warm when you wish to enjoy the day or evening but the temp is just slightly below your liking. It also offers a dual purpose as possibly becoming the center for your outdoor entertainment area. One of the wonderful advantages to a fire pit in your backyard is that they take up a relatively small amount of space for the benefit that they provide. And the options of materials for your pit ensure that it will complement your decor and style; brick, stone, pavers, concrete, steel, as well as retaining wall blocks. A fire pit, or even a fire bowl, is a great way to stay warm when you wish to enjoy the day or evening but the temp is just slightly below your liking. It also offers a dual purpose as possibly becoming the center for your outdoor entertainment area. One of the wonderful advantages to a fire pit in your backyard is that they take up a relatively small amount of space for the benefit that they provide. And the options of materials for your pit ensure that it will complement your decor and style; brick, stone, pavers, concrete, steel, as well as retaining wall blocks. Whether you have a pool already or not, a fire pit can be installed just about anywhere. The most popular tend to be gas powered pits, though you could opt for wood, if you so desire. As well, your pit can be either above ground or flush, being built below ground. Gas burning fire pits are typically easier to maintain (i.e., no ashes or debris to clean). As well, they don’t spark or produce embers or smoke. Wood-burning pits do provide the often well-remembered campfire aroma and can be changed according to the wood that is burned. One option to consider is if anyone would like to sit on the edge of the pit for a quicker warm-up. If that is the case, your fire pit should be between 18 and 22 inches high with enough area for someone to comfortably sit. A ground level fire pit with a deck of some type around it offers ground seating, reminiscent of sitting on a beach with an open fire blazing. We will work with your ideas for where and which type of fire pit to install, from the more simple to the elaborate, including its shape, such as square, circle, rectangle or even something custom. There are, of course, planning department regulations we will need to take into account, but that should not deter or stop you from having a fire pit or bowl to enhance your lifestyle. At Hive Outdoor Living we provide virtually everything in order to Create Your Backyard Paradise, including custom pools, spas, decks, screen enclosures, landscaping, outdoor kitchens, fire pits and fire bowls, gazebos and more.

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