Q. Everyone in our neighborhood is building a pool. We would love to join in the trend, but with our odd-shaped lot, property easements and restrictions, that’s not possible. We want to make our back yard something special. What would you recommend?
A. Have you thought about a spa? A spa can be part of your “home away from home.” Spas have been around since the Roman Empire and in today’s modern times, people use these vessels of water for health, as well as relaxation. Many owners create a special environment complete with music, waterfalls, fish ponds and lush landscaping.
Part of freeing yourself from the stress of everyday life in your spa is the availability of remote controls and automation. Your spa can be programmed to be ready for you when you get home with soft music and the proper temperature. How is that for a thought to get you through rush-hour traffic?
There are two types of spas: concrete and acrylic. The concrete spa can be built to any size or shape you desire; acrylic spas are formed from molds. There are even acrylic spas that can be placed alongside or above a pool that can spill over into the pool. The cost for a concrete spa is up to you, based on size and features, while a portable acrylic spa runs from about $2,000 to $5,000.
Does a spa require a lot of work? Industry professionals say expect to spend about five minutes a week to test and balance the water and chemistry in an acrylic spa, 30 minutes a month to clean the inside surface, and about one to two hours every three months to empty and refill your spa. A concrete spa integrated into a swimming pool will be maintained as part of the overall upkeep of the pool.
Most acrylic spas can be fitted with a safety cover to prevent inquisitive children from having a water accident. This same protective layer also helps maintain water temperature when the spa is not in use and prevents outside debris from falling in. Custom covers can be made for concrete spas.
Water chemistry is most often maintained with the use of bromine or ozone generators. Bromine is produced as a chemical while ozone is pumped into your spa as a gas. Both do an excellent job of keeping the water clean and balanced. Other chemicals also may be required.
Q. We have a 15-year-old, 20,000-gallon, vinyl-covered pool. The vinyl has reached the end of its useful life. Instead of resurfacing it with vinyl, we would like to have it done with crushed aggregate or fiberglass. Can this be done? What would you recommend?
A. No, you cannot redo a vinyl-liner pool with a crushed aggregate or marcite finish. Your choice is to tear out the pool and start over, or a more economical alternative is to purchase a new vinyl liner. Today’s liners are improved and longer lasting.
There is a wide assortment of color and pattern choices as well as the standard blue liner. We recommend having a licensed, experienced pool professional replace the liner.
