Hive Outdoor Living

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Pools in Small Yard

Building Pools in Small Yards: What to Keep in Mind

Dreaming of a refreshing dip in your very own pool but feeling discouraged by your limited yard space? Don’t fret! With the right planning and design strategies, you can transform even the smallest of yards into an oasis of relaxation and enjoyment. In this blog, we’ll explore creative solutions and expert tips for building pools in small yards, turning your backyard into a haven for fun and relaxation. Assessing Your Space When you are looking to build pools in small yards, make sure to take a critical look at your yard’s dimensions and layout. Measure the available space accurately and consider any obstacles such as trees, utilities, or structures that may impact pool placement. Assessing your space will help determine the size and shape of the pool that best fits your yard while leaving ample room for landscaping, seating areas, and other amenities. Choosing the Right Pool Design When space is limited, opting for a compact pool design is key. Consider alternatives such as plunge pools, lap pools, or cocktail pools, which are specifically designed for smaller yards. These pools typically have a smaller footprint while still providing ample space for swimming and relaxation. Additionally, explore customizable options such as freeform shapes or geometric designs that can be tailored to fit your yard’s dimensions seamlessly. Working with Professional Designers Tapping into the expertise of a professional pool designer or landscape architect is invaluable when building a pool in a small yard. These professionals can assess your space, offer creative design solutions, and ensure that your pool integrates harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. They can also provide valuable insights into zoning regulations, permitting requirements, and construction logistics, guiding you through every step of the process. When you don’t have any idea how to get started with building pools in small yards, professional pool designers can be a great help for you. Optimizing Space with Multi-Functional Design Incorporating multi-functional design elements can maximize the utility of your small yard while creating a visually appealing outdoor space. Consider integrating features such as built-in benches, sun shelves, or raised spa areas, which serve dual purposes and optimize space usage. Additionally, explore innovative options like pool covers that double as decking or retractable enclosures that allow for year-round enjoyment of your pool area. Embracing Vertical Space When horizontal space is limited, think vertically! Incorporating vertical elements such as waterfalls, sheer descents, or decorative walls can add visual interest and create the illusion of depth in a small yard. These features not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your pool area but also maximize space utilization, allowing you to make the most of every square foot available. Creating a Seamless Integration Achieving a seamless integration between your pool and the surrounding landscape is essential for creating a cohesive and inviting outdoor environment. Choose materials, colors, and textures that complement your home’s architecture and existing hardscape elements. Integrate lush greenery, potted plants, and strategic lighting to soften the edges of the pool and create a tranquil ambiance. By blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, you can create a retreat that feels like an extension of your home. Prioritizing Functionality and Comfort In a small yard, every square inch counts, so prioritize functionality and comfort when designing your pool area. Opt for space-saving furniture, such as folding chairs or built-in seating, that can be easily tucked away when not in use. Invest in quality pool equipment and accessories, such as energy-efficient pumps, automatic cleaners, and safety features, to ensure hassle-free maintenance and operation. By streamlining your pool area’s design and amenities, you can create a relaxing retreat that maximizes enjoyment without sacrificing comfort. Maintaining Balance and Proportion While it’s tempting to go all out with elaborate features and accessories, maintaining balance and proportion is key to creating a harmonious pool area in a small yard. Avoid overcrowding the space with oversized furniture or excessive landscaping, as this can make the area feel cramped and claustrophobic. Instead, focus on creating a cohesive and balanced design that maximizes functionality while maintaining an open and airy feel. Considering Your Budget: When building a pool in a small yard, keeping the budget in mind is crucial. Opt for cost-effective pool designs such as plunge or cocktail pools that require less space and materials. Consider DIY options for landscaping and pool maintenance to save on labor costs. Utilize space-saving features like compact pool equipment and minimalist decking. Research and compare prices for materials and construction services to find the best deals without compromising quality. By prioritizing budget-conscious choices and making informed decisions, you can create a beautiful pool oasis in your small yard without breaking the bank. Conclusion Building pools in small yards may present unique challenges, but with careful planning, creative design solutions, and expert guidance, you can transform your limited space into a stunning outdoor retreat. By optimizing space, embracing vertical elements, and prioritizing functionality and comfort, you can create a pool area that enhances your home’s value and provides endless hours of enjoyment for years to come. So, roll up your sleeves, dive into the design process, and get ready to make a splash in your small yard oasis!

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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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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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Landscaping To Reflect Your Lifestyle

It is never too late for landscaping When planning for your custom swimming pool, or even when you already have one installed, there is a way to complete your backyard paradise to reflect your lifestyle…landscaping and all that it can entail. The options to transform your backyard into a unique environment are almost limitless, including, but not limited to: patios, walkways, gazebos, trees and foliage, planters, ponds, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits, screen enclosures, and much more. There are also numerous water effects and a variety of lighting to consider. Fortunately, here in Tampa Bay, the #1 pool builder, Hive Outdoor Living, can handle pretty much any request or desire you may have with professional installations that will provide years of satisfaction. Water effects offer both soothing and dramatic backgrounds, as well as highlights. The sound of running water from a water fall, water bowls or a sheer descent provides a calming affect, as well as a bit of an external noise blocker. Add some colorful lighting, which can be both inside the pool water as well as solid or colored laminars that create a beautiful arc of water that enters your pool. There are items you may select that will provide you a dual purpose, such as filling planters with fragrant Lavender, Marigold, Scented Geranium and Peppermint to assist in repelling mosquitos. Trees and gazebos add dimension to your yard as well as some very welcome shade during the brightest part of the day. An outdoor kitchen, with an adjacent dining area and possibly a nearby fire pit with seating around it, makes an ideal area to relax after a day at work, as well as the favorite location to entertain family and friends, pretty much any time. However you decide to accentuate your home surroundings, rest assured that the experts at Hive Outdoor will work with you every step of the way to Create Your Own Paradise.

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A Great Family Lifestyle

Helping you create a rewarding family lifestyle Are you ready to Create Your Own Paradise, to help shape the best possible family lifestyle for you and your loved ones? Hive Outdoor Living, the #1 custom pool builder in the Greater Tampa Bay area, is ready to make your dreams come true! If you have decided to add a custom swimming pool to your backyard to improve your family’s life for the better, or are seriously considering doing this, our professional staff will provide you with the best possible advice and assistance. Our reputation for quality speaks for itself. The process of redesigning your backyard, regardless of the amount of available room you have, will begin with our pro designers who will work with you to maximize your outdoor space, transforming it into your family’s go-to enjoyment location. Your lifestyle will be improved in many ways.  Your new backyard environment will become the place for your family, and friends, to come together, for fun and entertainment. It will better your health (swimming is the best exercise). And, your new pool and surrounds will provide a much-needed balance between your work and your life. Not to mention, making great family memories to be cherished for years to come. At Hive Outdoor Living we understand the value of a custom pool, and offer much more to complete the lifestyle you would like to have, including spas, waterfalls, fountains, a wide array of lighting options, an outdoor kitchen and dining area, an assortment of decking options, screens and enclosures, and even landscaping to top it all off. When you think about it, adding a backyard paradise makes sense on many levels. It is the perfect solution to enhance your family lifestyle.

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Swimming Pool Equipment

A Clean Pool is Healthy and InvitingPool Equipment Makes All the Difference At Hive Outdoor Living, #1 Tampa Pool Builder, we take pride in each and every pool and spa that we install for our customers. One of the reasons we are the best at what we do is that we do not cut corners, especially when it comes to your pool equipment. In order to have a sparkling clean pool and/or spa, it is necessary to install the absolute best pump, filter and automation equipment, with the result that your pool/spa stays clean and sanitized, day in and day out. The pump is the heart of the system as its function is to circulate the water so it can be cleared of debris. We have been using the industry leader’s (Pentair) swimming pool and spa pumps for years. Aside from performing the job of water circulation flawlessly, their pumps earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR® designation due to being between 30%-72% more energy-efficient than their competitors in the industry. The purpose of the pool filter is to keep your pool water clear and clean. There are many types of filters on the market and the Pentair cartridge filter does an amazing job of removing airborne dirt and leaves, organic matter, bacteria and algae. The Clean & Clear RP Cartridge filter has a surface consistency to block and trap particles as small as 20 microns. On top of that, it is relatively easy and quick to remove and rinse clean. Despite the year-round warmer temperatures in Florida, most people opt for a heater to ensure they can enjoy their pool in total comfort. Of course, if you are getting a spa, this piece of equipment is a must. Pentair MasterTemp heaters are efficient, convenient and extremely reliable. With a user-friendly LCD display, these pool heaters are easy to operate as a home heating system and the MasterTemp Heater is Eco-friendly and is certified for low NOx emissions, outperforming pool industry standards One of the keys to years of enjoyment is your pool’s water chemistry. There are pH and sanitizer levels at which your water must be maintained to prevent the growth of algae, as well as keeping water safe for your eyes. The liquid around the eyes is generally between 7.0 and 7.3, which is pH neutral. Any significant fluctuation from those readings will cause your eyes to sting, similar to when water dripping from your hair reaches your open eye, as the pH of hair and scalp oil is generally acidic, between 4.5 and 5.5, in order to prevent fungi and bacteria from growing. The Pentair IntelliChem® Water Chemistry Controller works to keep the pH and chlorine levels of your pool in balance. Many people enjoy swimming at night and, to ensure safety, the Pentax MicroBrite Color and White LED Lights provide exceptional brilliance, lighting uniformity and some amazing colors. To add some spice, there is the option of Pentair GloBrite lights. These high-performance LED lights utilize the most advanced technology with five brilliant fixed colors and offer seven dazzling pre-programmed light shows. Another very useful device is the Pentair IntelliLevel™ Water Leveling Monitor, utilizing multi-sensory technology to ensure that your pool water level stays at a safe level for operational efficiency. When water levels are too high there can be overflow and a waste of water. When the level is too low there is a danger that not enough water reaches the pool pump and filtration system, which can cause equipment damage. It is simple to set up and use and has built-in safeguards to notify you in case of any failure to operate properly. And, of course, having a device clean and vacuum your pool is an added plus. The fully-programmable Pentair Prowler 920 Robotic Pool Cleaner is top of the line and provides high-caliber cleaning, scrubbing and vacuuming, to the tile line. One last thing to mention is the installation of your equipment. When you select Hive Outdoor Living to build your pool, rest assured that your equipment not only functions properly, but that it flows perfectly. By that we mean that all pipes leading into and out of the equipment area follow a logical pattern for optimum efficiency and are clearly marked for ease of identification. The above cover the basics of an ideal swimming pool equipment and device set up. Of course, there are many additional options to enhance your outdoor living area, such as enclosures and screens, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, fountains, waterfalls, grottos, caves, jet sprays, etc. From your new pool design to your entire outdoor environment, Hive Outdoor Living can, and will, make your dreams come true.

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Pool Design and Environment

In order to Create Your Own Paradise there needs to be a starting point. At Hive Outdoor Living, the #1 Tampa pool builder, that begins with finding out exactly what you would like to see in your backyard with a pool design and environment you will love for years to come. Aside from swimming pools and spas, Hive Outdoor is greatly experienced in the quality installation of screen enclosures, outdoor television and audio, outdoor kitchens and barbecue areas, fire pits, fencing, and automation. Our expert crews can also install decks and paths, lawns or your complete landscaping requirements. And, the manner in which we accomplish this is quite unique. As you discuss your ideas for a pool design with our professional designer, you will see a remarkably detailed three-dimensional rendering of your entire outdoor living space take shape, including your home and existing landscaping and how your new swimming pool compliments and integrates its surroundings. This Hive Outdoor Living technique ensures the most favorable and optimum usage of your existing details and backyard elements in order to create your perfect living and entertainment environment. However, if you are not sure what you would like, but are able to tell us which outdoor activities that you and your family most enjoy, we can design your pool and surrounds with our recommendations and suggestions, with the goal of pleasing and satisfying your desires. Either way, whether it is your concept or ours, as your plan is nearing completion, through the power of Virtual Reality, we will take you on a virtual tour of your yard in order to view and explore what lies ahead. Another option is to Create Your Own Paradise in phases. By that we mean, when you have provided us with your ultimate dream details, we can build it one step at a time. In other words, the pool is installed first with perhaps a screen enclosure. The next phase includes enhancing your backyard living area with a kitchen, fire pit and seating area. And perhaps the last stage is the expert installation of a large screen television and audio system with stereo surround sound. At Hive Outdoor Living, our highly-talented designers love to work with our clients to create their ideal outdoor living space. If you can dream it, we can build it. We pledge to all of our customers that you will be 100% satisfied with the final job. In fact, we will ensure that you are delighted. This is accomplished through both our skilled crews working on the project itself, but by also by using only the highest quality equipment and components available. That only makes sense because your new outdoor living space will be providing years of family fun and togetherness. From your new pool design to your entire outdoor living environment, Hive Outdoor Living can, and will, make your dreams come true.

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There’s a Great Pool for You

“At Hive Outdoor Living, we truly believe “There’s a Pool for You.” Regardless of the size of your backyard living space or the budget that you have allocated for a custom swimming pool, it is our belief that every backyard, especially here in the Greater Tampa Bay area, should have a pool. There are numerous reasons why. We’ll cover a few. Swimming pools bring families together, add a tremendous amount of pleasure, and create an at-home staycation or holistay environment. A pool is an investment in years of enjoyment and fun, likely creating memories to last a lifetime. There is, as well, the health aspect of owning your own pool. There is ample evidence that swimming is one of the best, if not the best, exercise. The great thing is that, other than competitive swimming, it does not feel like exercise. The benefits of swimming are incredible: it is low-impact, yet builds and maintains muscles (especially as we age); it improves lung capacity, thus processing oxygen much more efficiently and assisting in immunity to illness; it can help reduce stress, both physical and mental; to name a few. What could be better than having a closer family and all members being happier and healthier? The beautiful thing about a Hive Outdoor Living custom swimming pool is that we have created numerous backyard paradises for people in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. That is why we believe that there is a pool for you. From traditional rectangular or kidney shaped pools, to ones that are free form, using the natural contours of the property and dwelling to define its outline and configuration. We are a Greater Tampa Bay Area 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 and gratifying satisfaction. Prepare to Create Your Own Paradise. Contact us today for a free estimate! (813) 579-2444

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