Pool planning – Compass Pools Australia

Let’s Talk Swimming Pool Fencing: Pool Barrier Regulations, Fencing Options & Cost

CPA — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 03:23:52 +0000

This article was written in September 2021 and may not contain updated information about the pool fencing regulations within your local State or Territory. To find out the most up to date information and if your pool area is compliant, please contact your local authorised licensed pool dealer or local government council.

Planning for your new pool area is extremely exciting, however, one important safety and design aspect to consider is pool fencing. Under Australian law, every swimming pool within every State and Territory must have an adequate barrier to prevent and restrict unsupervised children from gaining access to the swimming pool area. Ensuring your fence meets the strict safety requirements doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on aesthetics. These days there are many different pool fencing design options available to suit every backyard design dream, budget and most importantly the safety requirements.

Australian Pool Fencing Regulations

Within Australia it is a legal requirement that every pool has a pool safety barrier around its pool area. The Australian Standard AS1926.1-2012 – Safety Barriers for Swimming Pools outlines regulations and safety standards for pool fencing. Most States and Territories use the Australian Standard for their own pool safety barrier regulations; however, some have modifications and multiple standards in place that pool owners must adhere to. In some areas the pool regulations differ depending on the year the pool was installed. Due to all these differences it is important to contact your local council or professional pool builder to find out what regulations are in your local area.

Generally speaking within Australia all pool fencing must be at least 1.2m high with gaps no greater than 100mm, and it is legally the responsibility of the pool owner to maintain the pool fence ensuring that it is legally compliant with local standards at all times. Below is a general pool safety checklist that does not factor in the local pool barrier regulations of your area. To find out if your pool is legally compliant with the law, please contact your local council.

10.2m X Trainer in Quartz with glass fencing. Installed by Compass Melbourne.

Home Pool Safety Fence and Gate Reminder Checklist

Please note: The following home ‘self-assessment’ pool safety checklist is for general educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for a professional assessment of your pool’s compliance with the law. Please contact your local council for more information.

Swimming Pool Fencing Checklist


Are all your fence panels in place and securely attached?	Yes	No- Replace and secure fence panels
Have you checked for any holes or gaps in your fence?	Yes	No- Check and repair the fence
Have you checked for rusted, loose or missing screws?	Yes	No- Check and replace
Have you checked your pool fence meets the local standards and is compliant with the regulations?	Yes	No- Request a pool safety fence inspection
Does your pool fence have a CPR sign clearly displayed?	Yes	No- Purchase a factually correct CPR sign and display it

Swimming Pool Gate Checklist


Does your pool gate open outwards?	Yes	No- Get it fixed
Does your gate self-latch & self- close (swing back to a closed position once open)?	Yes	No- Replace/ fix hinges and/or latches
Does the gate remain securely latched and does not open when pulled on?	Yes	No- Fix or replace latch
Is the gate secure and does not open if a child jumps on the bottom railing of the gate?	Yes	No- Fix or replace latch
Are you aware that it is illegal in some states and territories to prop open your pool gate?	Yes	No- Never prop open your pool gate!
Have you checked that your gate is legally compliant with the local laws?	Yes	No- Get it checked by a professional

Landscape Surrounding Pool Fence Check List


Have you removed objects that can be climbed on away from the pool fence? I.e. Chairs, ladders, trees, BBQ's, pot plants	Yes	No- Remove and store objects away from the pool fence
Have you ensured that any plants, trees, bushes etc. near the pool fence have been trimmed or removed, so as they cannot be climbed on?	Yes	No- Trim or remove plants close to the pool fence

For more information, please refer to SPASA Australia’s Australian Pool Fencing Rules- An Overview

The Laws and Regulations for each State and Territory

Please note, the following State and Territory laws and regulations for pool barrier safety outlined below do not go into specific detail. To find out more about the exact local laws and regulations within your area please contact your local authorised licensed pool dealer or local council. The following should also not be used on its own to determine if your pool is compliant with the law.

QLD Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

All Queensland (QLD) pools and spas need to be fenced with swimming pool barriers that adhere to the local standard. The standard outlines that pool fencing must be at least 1.2m high, have gaps no greater than 100mm and have no climbable zones within 900mm of the fence. A climbable zone is any area of the swimming pool barrier that is able to be climbed due to an object that is placed beside it. This means that any objects, such as trees, ladders, pot plants etc. must be removed if they are within 900mm of the fence. All QLD swimming pools must also be registered on the QLD pool safety register. The pool safety register keeps a record of all registered pools within QLD, the pool safety certificates issued and a list of licensed pool safety inspectors within the State. If you don’t register your pool with the QLD pool safety register, you risk being fined.

To check if your pool is compliant with the local regulations, please contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA QLD Barrier Laws

QLD Gov Pool Safety

To register your pool or spa online

To check if your pool is already registered

To find a local pool safety inspector

7m Sanctuary in colour Evolution with mix and match pool fencing. Pool installed by Composite Pools.

NSW Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Pool barriers within New South Wales (NSW) must adhere to the Swimming Pools Act 1992 and the Australian Standard 1926 (AS1926). Both these documents have been updated several times and as a result, the regulations for backyard swimming pools within NSW applies differently to each pool depending on the year of installation. For example, a pool built or altered in the 1970’s within NSW will have different regulations to a pool built or altered in NSW in 2021. Check with your local council to find out about the regulations your pool must comply with. Residential properties with swimming pools or any structure capable of holding water greater than 300mm (such as paddling pools) must be fenced with a legally compliant fence that is at least 1.2m high with gaps no greater than 100mm. All swimming pools within NSW must be registered with the NSW Swimming Pool Register, and it is the responsibility of each pool owner to ensure that their pool fencing is legally compliant at all times with the NSW Pool Barrier Regulations.

To find out more about the local pool regulations within your area and if your pool is compliant contact your local government council.

Resources:

Swimming Pools ACT 1992

Swimming Pools Regulation 2018

Swimming Pool Register NSW

SPASA NSW Barrier Laws

NSW Government Pool Inspection Self-Assessment Checklists

7.3m Sanctuary in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle.

ACT Pool Fencing/ Barrier Laws

Within the ACT all swimming pools or pool spas must be fenced with adequate barriers that legally comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). Generally speaking, pool fencing within this Territory must be at least 1.2m high with gaps that are no greater than 100mm. Swimming pool barriers within the ACT must also not have any objects within a 1.2m arc of the fence that could create a ‘climbable structure’. A climbable structure is any object that could be used to gain unsupervised access to the swimming pool and would reduce the safety aspect of the pool fence. In other words, you need to make sure that there are no objects, such as trees, BBQs, chairs etc. placed near or on the pool fence that could be climbed on and used to gain access to the pool area while unsupervised.

To find out if your swimming pool fence is legally compliant with the ACT Pool Barrier laws, please contact your local government council.

Resources:

ACT Gov Pool Barrier Safety

SPASA ACT Barrier Laws

11.8m X Trainer in colour Pacific with aluminium fencing. Installed by Capital Country Pools.

VIC Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Within Victoria it is the obligation of every pool and spa owner to ensure that their pool barrier is maintained correctly and always adheres to the local fencing safety standards. The pool barrier must have a self-latching and self-closing gate and must comply with the AS1926.1-2012 standard. From the 1 December 2019, new laws were introduced within Victoria to improve swimming pool and spa safety. This includes laws that state all pools must be registered with their local council, as well as introducing new laws around inspection and certification requirements for property owners.

For more information and to see if your pool is compliant with the local Victorian pool fencing regulations, please contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA Victoria Barrier Laws

Victorian Pool Safety Barriers

Victorian Pool & Spa Registration Requirements

Victorian Pool & Spa Inspections and Compliance

Victorian Installing a New Pool or Spa

8.2m X Trainer in colour Pacific with mix and match fencing. Installed by Bridgeswade.

TAS Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Pools and spas within Tasmania need to comply with the Australian Standard 1926.1 & 2. This standard outlines the ‘rules’ that swimming pool fencing must adhere to. Fences must be at least 1.2m high, have a gap under the fence no greater than 100mm from the ground, and the vertical bars must be closer than 100mm apart. Tasmanian pool fencing must also have a self-latching and self-closing gate, and must be properly maintained at all times by the pool owner.

To find out if your pool is legally compliant with local laws, contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA Tasmanian Barrier Laws

Tasmanian Government Pool Safety Barriers

NT Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Within the Northern Territory (NT) there are two pool fencing safety standards: the Modified Australian Standard and the Community Australian Standard. The safety standard that your pool must comply with generally depends on what year your pool was installed. For more information, please contact your local city council.

Resources:

SPASA Northern Territory Barrier Laws

Northern Territory Barrier Laws

SA Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

Generally speaking South Australian (SA) pools and spas must adhere to the following pool fencing safety rules:

The pool fencing must be a permanent effective barrier for children entering the pool area
It must not have gaps below the fence that could allow children to climb under
It must not be able to be climbed over by children through the use of foot or hand holds
It must be at least 1.2 m high
Any boundary fences used as part of the pool safety barrier must be at least 1.8m high on the side that faces the pool
Gates to the pool fence must be self-closing, self-latching from any position and swing outward from the pool area. The self-latching device must be placed at least 1.5m above ground level.

To find out if your pool is legally compliant with the local regulations, contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA South Australian Barrier Laws

SA Government Pool & Spa Safety

WA Pool Fencing / Barrier Laws

In Western Australia (WA), the Building Regulations 2012 requires any private pool or spa (deeper than 300mm) to be fenced with an adequate, legally compliant safety barrier that restricts unsupervised children’s access to the pool.

There are currently two sets of safety barrier requirements within WA. The requirement your swimming pool must adhere to depends on the year your private swimming pool was installed, or the year the plans for installation of your pool were submitted to the permit authority for approval. These two requirements apply for pools installed (or permits submitted) before/ or after the 1^st May 2016.

To find out if your pool is compliant with the local regulations, contact your local government council.

Resources:

SPASA WA Barrier Laws

WA Rules for Pools & Spas 2016

Different Types of Pool Fencing Options

After safety the next most important aspect to consider when designing your new pool area, is the type of pool fencing that would suit your backyard design dreams. These days there are many different styles that suit a variety of different budgets, design choices and installation sites. Below, we will explore the most popular options available on the market at this time.

Glass Fencing

Glass fencing is one of the most popular and frequently asked about pool fencing options. Part of its popularity comes down to its aesthetically beautiful and seamless appearance that does not ‘take away’ from the overall design of your backyard pool area by being too ‘in your face’. The only downsides to glass fencing are that it can easily show smudge marks, fingerprints, or the white marks left from salt residue. Another thing to be conscious about with glass fencing is the risk of birds flying into it and decreased air flow within the pool area due to the enclosed nature of this barrier option. That may seem like a lot of negatives, but the overall seamless look of glass fencing cannot be beaten and undeniably adds visual value to any backyard design. Glass fencing comes in two different styles: frameless and semi frameless.

7.2m X-Trainer in colour Quartz showcasing glass pool fencing. Pool installed by Compass Pools Sydney.

Frameless Glass Fencing

Frameless glass fencing has no frames or metal ‘posts’ between each pane of glass and is instead held together by small metal pegs located at the bottom of the fence. This type of glass fencing is excellent if you want to showcase your landscaping designs by using a pool barrier that seamlessly blends into you pool space. Keep in mind that frameless glass fencing is more expensive than semi-frameless glass fencing, to find out more please contact your local pool builder.

Semi-Frameless Glass Fencing

Semi-frameless glass fencing has metal fence posts between each sheet of glass. The overall effect is still visually seamless; however, the posts make the fence slightly more visible than the frameless option. If you are concerned about the possibility of birds, pets or loved ones accidentally colliding with your pool barrier due to its ability to blend into its surrounds, then semi frameless is perfect as it still creates a visually seamless look but is slightly more noticeable than frameless. Semi frameless glass fencing often costs less than frameless.

12.3m Fastlane with External Steps in colour Sapphire with semi-frameless glass fencing. Pool installed by Swan Hill Pool and Spa Centre.

Earthing Your Glass Pool Fencing

Keep in mind that glass fencing within 1.25m of your swimming pool needs to be earthed by a qualified electrician to ensure your pool barrier doesn’t become an electrical conductor for any electrical current flowing within the ground. This is important, as water and electricity do not mix and by earthing the metal pegs within your fencing, you stop the risk of electrocution from happening when water comes into contact with your pool barrier. These days you can sometimes choose to install your glass fencing with composite spigots instead of the metal pegs. Composite spigots do not need to be earthed as they are not metal, but the downside of them is that they are not stainless steel.

The cost of glass fencing differs in price but ranges anywhere from $350m to $600m. To find out more about the glass fencing options for your pool area, please contact your local pool dealer.

Aluminium Fencing

Aluminium fencing is an affordable, popular pool fencing option that meets the safety standards in Australia. It is available in many different colours to suit most backyard design spaces and is very low maintenance in terms of cleaning. Aluminium fencing is highly practical but perhaps not as aesthetically pleasing or as popular as the glass options. This type of pool fencing does however allow for great air flow within the pool area and costs between $160 per m and $200 per m.

5.8m X Trainer in colour Sapphire with aluminium fencing. Pool installed by SJs Pools & Spas.

Pool Perforated Fencing

Pool perforated fencing is one of the newest design options available for installation within pool areas in Australia. This type of fencing is made out of aluminium, is highly customisable and available in many different design options including see through and patterned. Pool perforated fencing can be customised to include shapes and ‘see through’ sections within the design unlike traditional aluminium fencing which can only be customised in terms of block colour. This type of fencing is more expensive than traditional aluminium fencing options but does allow for more customisation. The average cost of pool perforated fencing is between $365m² – $800m²

Mix and Match

There are no limits to the design options available for your backyard design dreams as you can mix and match any legally compliant pool fence to your heart’s content. This means if you want one section glass and another aluminium, you are more than welcome to do so. If you are looking for ideas on how to create and plan your new perfect pool area, contact your local pool dealer.

10.2m X Trainer in colour Sapphire with mix and match fencing. Pool installed by Central Pools

Temporary Pool Fencing

It is important to note that in most States and Territories within Australia, it is compulsory to fence your pool (whether construction is complete or not) as soon as the structure (e.g. pool shell) is capable of holding 300mm of water or more. During this stage of construction, temporary pool fencing options can be hired or purchased. These options range in price, but to find out more, please contact your local pool installer.

For More Information

SPASA Australian Pool Fencing Rules: An Overview https://www.spasa.com.au/consumer-info/fencing-laws

The post Let’s Talk Swimming Pool Fencing: Pool Barrier Regulations, Fencing Options & Cost appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Owning a Plastic Pool

CPA — Fri, 22 May 2020 05:43:40 +0000

A lot of people dream about having a swimming pool in the backyard, especially when the blazing summer heat and humidity roll in. But, there are space constraints that could make a traditional pool impossible, and a new swimming pool can be very expensive. Inflatable pools can solve all of these problems in one go. So are they worth it, and are there better alternatives?

Below, we’ll go over all of the important factors you want to consider when you’re trying to decide between a plastic pool and something else. These include things like the biggest reasons you’d want a paddling pool, disadvantages, costs and more.

Defining a Plastic Pool

First, what is a plastic pool? If I ask you to imagine an inflatable pool, chances are you’re going to think of the tiny kid’s pools that younger children splash around in. However, there are current plastic pools large enough for several adults to sit comfortably in at one time.

The variety has also evolved over the years. The basic plastic pool is just an oversized paddling pool without many special features. Then, you can go a step or two up and get inflatable pools that have metal frames, or those that have a steel frame with numerous layers of plastic over it to create a more durable option. Vinyl pools are at the top of the plastic pool range, and you can install them above or in-ground. The more sophisticated your plastic pool gets, the more expensive it’ll be to install and maintain.

Five Big Reasons to Consider Getting a Plastic Pool

Why would someone go through all the trouble of investing in a blow-up swimming pool that will break down much quicker than something like a fibreglass one? There are several big reasons for this, and we’ve picked out the most important ones for you below.

1. Cost

As much as it stings, your budget plays a huge role in which pool you choose for your yard. Plastic pools are, in general, much more cost-effective than fibreglass or concrete ones upfront. Buying and installing them don’t cost nearly as much as it would if you went with something more durable. And, maintaining it won’t break your budget either. You can get a plastic pool for as little as $200 or less, and you can get one large enough at this price for the entire family to enjoy.

2. Convenience

Convenience is another big part of why people choose to buy blow-up swimming pools over something more durable and long-lasting. You can usually buy one of these pools, transport it to your home and set it up in your yard without the help of any pool specialists. Additionally, you most likely won’t need any further advice on how to maintain your pool. Some plastic pools don’t come with a pump system to worry about unless you start getting into the higher-end models. All of this boosts your savings and the convenience factor.

3. Easier Access

If you have a pool sitting above-ground, it can be difficult for smaller children to get in and out. Many plastic pools sit lower to the ground, and their walls can bend. As such, your kid can easily step or slide over the wall and into the pool. They can also get back out again without any huge fuss. Depending on the pool size, this also adds a safety element – inflatable pools usually aren’t as big as other types, so you won’t have to worry as much about your kid having an accident. You should monitor them constantly, though.

4. Instant Gratification

If you have kids at home that are too anxious to get in the pool, it can seem like it’s taking ages to fill up and get the water ready for swimming. Blow up swimming pools can give you a feeling of almost instant gratification. You bring one home, set it up, fill it with water and let your kid go. This is excellent for those hot and humid summer days where you just want to cool off and have a place to splash around and have fun right at the moment. Higher-end pools are slightly more complicated and can take more time to install.

5. Portability

Unlike some pools that don’t move once you get them in place, plastic pools are highly portable. You can easily drain them, fold them up and move them from space to space. This is a nice touch if you don’t have a concrete area for your pool to sit and you don’t want it in one place all summer. Most of them are relatively lightweight once emptied and dried, so it’s not too much for one or two people to move them to a new space or fold up to store for the winter months.

Plastic Pools and Safety

Unfortunately, it can be very easy to overlook the safety aspect of your plastic pool because it’s a portable, above-ground option. Your plastic pool has to meet Australian Standard 1926 if it’s over 300 mm deep. This standard dictates that you have to surround your plastic pool with a 1.2-metre-high fence on all sides, and every gate or door must self-latch or self-close.

The outside of the pool’s fence area has to have a non-climbable zone of 900 mm. Inside this 900 mm, you can’t have anything that anyone could climb on, such as furniture or rocks. The goal is to create a flat area that doesn’t allow someone to use it as a stand to climb over the fence.

Downsides of Blow Up Swimming Pools

One of the biggest downsides of these types of swimming pools is that they’re not extremely durable. They’re prone to breaking, tearing and splitting. You could spend a lot of time patching holes all over the pool to get them to hold water. They also break down much faster than the higher-end pools, like the ones that use fibreglass, because the pool chemicals can damage the plastic. You’ll have to buy more patch kits once you run out, and you’ll find yourself replacing a blow-up swimming pool several times over the course of a few years.

They’re not durable enough to withstand winter conditions in certain parts of Australia, especially the colder months of the year. You’ll have to close your pool during this time, and how you do that depends on the type of plastic pool you buy. Ideally, you’ll empty your blow-up swimming pool if you can do so safely. If you bought a very large plastic pool, the minimum you should do is reduce the water level until it falls below the skimmer line. This helps stop the plumbing from freezing up and cracking. You also want to cover your plastic pool, and you’ll have to add the correct winterising chemicals to keep your pool clean.

Plastic Pool Alternatives

If an inflatable pool doesn’t sound like something feasible for your yard, there are several nice alternatives you can consider. They’ll generally last longer, and buying and maintaining them don’t have to break the bank. If space is an issue, consider installing a Little Pool. These are affordable, high-quality fibreglass pools. They have all of the latest technology available on the market incorporated into their design, making them a very safe and durable choice.

Little Pools are very compact, so it is easy to transport these plastic pool alternatives on trucks to your home. They also require very little site maintenance to prepare your yard. All you need to have is a level surface to set your pool. This could be straight on the ground, but a concrete slab is better. All you have to do is hook them up to electricity, fill them up and they’re ready to use. You get lighting, a filtration system, basic pool maintenance kit and more with each purchase. And, there are several colours and shapes available.

Little Pools are very affordable, and you won’t have to put in the same amount of maintenance to keep them looking nice day in and day out as you would a traditional pool. This results in more savings for you, and you can use your excess time to enjoy your pool to the fullest. Staying at home (and planning a staycation) near your Little Pool can be really relacing and exciting at the same time.

Another alternative is a plunge pool by Compass Pools. This pool is perfect for people who don’t have space for a traditional pool but want the durability that comes with having a fibreglass pool in their yard. This is another popular option because it can be very affordable in the long run. You will pay more upfront for them, but they pay for themselves because fibreglass can last for decades without any resurfacing required. The maintenance for a fibreglass pool is lower as well, and the fibreglass won’t erode due to the pool chemicals. It is still important you keep the chemicals well-balanced, though, to keep your pool healthy and safe.

Plunge pools come in eight different sizes, ranging from 2.85 m long and 2.1 m wide to 6.3 m long by 3.39 m wide. This gives you a slightly deeper pool that is very self-contained. They get up to 1.7 m deep, and this is more than deep enough for adults.

Compass Pools Has Fibreglass Pools That Will Last for Years

If you’re in the market for something slightly sturdier than a plastic pool, try Compass Pool’s fibreglass options. We have something for any aspiring pool owner, and our fibreglass pools are some of the best in Australia. They’re durable, and they have the best materials on the market incorporated into their design to ensure that you’re getting a lasting investment.

We’re dedicated to putting out quality products that encourage a love of swimming. Our blog features dozens of articles relating to everything about swimming and pools, and you can find great advice to help you get the most out of your new fibreglass pool.

Anyone who would like to know more about our line of compact pools should contact our expert team at your local Compass Pools dealership. We’re happy to answer your questions and guide you along to picking out the perfect pool for your space.

The post The Advantages and Disadvantages of Owning a Plastic Pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

How to Find a Reputable Pool Company Near You

CPA — Tue, 31 Dec 2019 00:07:37 +0000

A pool can be a significant investment, and you want to pick a reputable local pool company. Sifting through pool companies in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Newcastle can be time-consuming, especially if you’re not sure what to consider.

Many people choose to search for ‘swimming pools near me’ or ‘local pool builder near me’ to find results. However, we want to tell you exactly how to find the best local pool company, and we’ll outline why it’s so critical that you take your time when you search.

Why Searching for ‘Swimming Pools Near Me’ is Only the Start of Your Search

Some people decide to perform one or two searches for ‘pools near me’ and pick the first company that pops up. However, this is only the beginning of your search. You must screen every company and do in-depth research before you settle on one.

This way, you can rest assured that the pool company can do everything you need them to do. Maybe you need special accommodations, or you have obstacles in the way that makes installation difficult. Some companies will be able to accommodate you while others will not.

Additionally, taking the time to perform these searches will allow you to price check different companies to get the best rate. If you don’t, and you pick one at random, you could end up paying much more for your new pool or spa than you need too. This money is something you could use to add accessories to your pool or use for additional upgrades like eco-friendly pumps or bright colours.

Criteria to Help You Find a Pool Company in Melbourne or the Surrounds

Fortunately, we have a guide that outlines everything you need to make a note of when you search for a ‘local pool builder near me.’ These first few essential details you want to apply to any local pool company you find.

Experience

How long has the pool company been in business? Ideally, you want to find a well-established company that has a portfolio of completed projects and satisfied clients. For example, Compass Pools has a Melbourne office and showroom where we’re more than happy to talk about past installs and their options. We have several fibreglass pools available, and we have decades of experience installing them for our customers.

References

Any pool builder you contact should be able to provide you with recommendations for past projects. These should be new and older customers. A company that does quality work will be more than happy to prove it by giving you at least one or two references.

Business or Trade Organisation

Having some degree of involvement with a local trade or business organisation shows that a business commits to the pool building industry. You’re more apt to get a professional company that invests time, money and effort into making their pools and accessories better.

Equipment

Be sure you ask about the local pool company’s heavy machinery and the quality grades and performance levels. The answers will give you a good idea on whether or not they have the equipment available to create, transport and install the pool successfully.

Payment Process

Ask to see a copy of a typical pool build and install contract. Ask about payment terms. Any contractor who asks you for more money than the contract specifies isn’t worth your time. The goal is to stay within the contract’s guidelines from start to finish.

Pool Types

What type of pool comes up when you search for a ‘pool company near me?’ Do the majority of people need in-ground or above-ground? If you have a little space available, can your pool company install a plunge pool? What about a spa or a pool and spa combination? A reputable pool company will be able to walk you through your various options and find the best pool type for your space and usage needs.

Cost

Your budget will also play a role in the company you choose and the pool you get. You have to consider the groundwork, trades, whether or not you want paving or decking, safety features, landscaping, accessories, heating, chemicals, filtration system and cleaning expenses. If you shop around, you can find the lowest prices for your new pool with sacrificing quality.

Will the Company Put the Details in Writing

Finally, make a point to ask the pool companies if they’ll put all of the little details in writing. Getting it in writing will help outline what the pool company and what you will have to cover. The things you want to see include:

What excavation work does the company include in your quote? If the company runs into issues, how will the issues impact the cost?
How will the company prepare your yard for the pool without damaging existing structures? If they have to move things, will they return them to their places?
If you need a fence or deck around your pool, will they put it in or will that be your responsibility?
What equipment will they use, and what happens if something happens to it that causes a delay?
What landscaping and grading company do they use if they outsource?
What will you have to pay with repair and maintenance costs?
What is the warranty coverage?
Is there an itemized list of the costs of the pool and any accessories like a spa, infinity edge, wading area or pool cover.

Six Steps to Follow to Find the Best Local Pool Builder

Now that you have a list of things to consider when you search for ‘swimming pools near me,’ you can use these steps to narrow down your search. Since any given area can have dozens of local pool companies, taking your time and comparing them is critical.

Step One – Determine the Pool Type

The first thing you want to do is decide on the type of pool you want. A quick search will give you a good indication of the go-to Australian pool types. Are they in-ground or above-ground? Concrete or fibreglass? Freshwater or saltwater? In Australia, fibreglass pools are one of the most popular options due to their durability and longevity. Decide which type of pool suits your area, budget and lifestyle.

Step Two – Pick Out the Pool Design

There are dozens of pool designs available. Maybe you want a pool to increase your swimming speed. If so, a lap pool would be the right choice. If you want something more elegant, an infinity pool could be the way to go. Consider how you want to use the pool and your yard space. You could always get a smaller pool and get a few water features added on to make it more functional.

Step Three – Learn About Pool Equipment

You don’t have to be a pool equipment expert, but having a rudimentary understanding of how pool equipment works and the basic pros and cons are helpful. For example, do you want a cartridge, natural or diatomaceous earth filter? Will you use a chlorine generator or a feeder to chlorinate your pool, or will you choose saltwater? Consider a self-cleaning pool system to cut down on the number of chemicals you need and the amount of maintenance you’ll have to do. The more you know, the more prepared you’ll be to ask questions and understand your options.

Step Four – Make a List of Potential Local Pool Companies

When you get a good understanding of what you want for your new pool, make a list of reputable local pool companies. Ask for references from co-workers, family and friends who have or had pools installed. Once you get a list, start comparing them to see which ones offer you more bang for your buck. Use the criteria list from earlier to help weed through your potential companies. The goal is to narrow your choices down to the top three to five.

Step Five – Schedule Appointments

Take your final list and start scheduling appointments. You should schedule them a day or two apart, so you don’t mix up their offerings, and it’ll also give you time to jot down a few comparison notes. Make a short pro and con list and pay attention to each company’s sales pitch. Also, make sure to get any promises, discounts or promotional offers in writing. Don’t sign any contracts until you visit your entire list of potential companies.

Step Six – Compare and Choose

Finally, you’ll want to take a day and compare all of your options. Were there a couple that stood out from the rest? Use the process of elimination to narrow your results down until you get one company. Call and schedule another consultation, or ask them what the next step is and what they need from you. You can now move forward with your build while staying confident that you chose the best option to give you the pool of your dreams.

Compass Pools Has Reputable Pool Dealers in Several Locations

Compass Pools has a reputation for installing high-quality fibreglass pools. We bring years of experience to each customer we take on, and we’ve honed our craft over the years. Additionally, we also have a host of offices and showrooms throughout Australia that makes it easy to come directly to our customers. There are no long wait times, and we’ll work with you to ensure you get an excellent finished product. We have authorised dealers in:

Melbourne

Compass Pools is the pool company Melbourne residents turn to when they need dependable and professional service. We bring over 30 years of experience selling and installing fibreglass pools throughout Melbourne and Victoria. Each member of our staff commits themselves to showcase the highest quality fibreglass swimming pools available. Additionally, each of our pools is low maintenance, but they all last for years.

We have a showroom where we can walk you through the various fibreglass pools, spas and accessories we have available. We’ll also show you the different colour ranges and finishes. We also encourage you to ask about our past installations! We’re happy to showcase our work and help you choose the best swimming pool for your lifestyle.

Sydney

The Compass Sales Centre is your point of contact for a quality pool company in Sydney North and Sydney South. We’ve showcased our pools and had a decade to build our portfolio of satisfied customers and completed projects here. We faithfully serve the Baulkham Hills, Blacktown, Castle Hill, Central Coast, Gosford, Hurtsville, Mosman, Northern Beaches and Northshore communities from this location.

When you drop by, our friendly and professional staff are on-hand and ready to walk you through your pool options. We can compare sizes, shapes, colours and exterior finishes to help you decide on the best choice for your needs.

Brisbane

If you’re looking for a reliable pool company in Brisbane, rely on our authorised Compass Pools dealer for this area.

You can drop by and view our exclusive range of fibreglass pools, spas and water features that help you customise your new pool. If you have questions, the friendly staff are ready to answer them, address your concerns and guide you through the process of picking out a new pool.

Newcastle

When you look for a pool company in Newcastle, look for Compass Pools. Newcastle is home to our display centre, and we have several high-quality fibreglass pools to show our customers. We specialise in complicated site installations, and we have hundreds of satisfied customers throughout the community.

This location is right next door to Compass Pools Australia – NSW Manufacturing Facility, and this means you get lightning-fast service with quick turnaround times when you order. If you’d like to know more, we offer no-obligation quotes on your new spa or pool project!

Stop by Your Local Compass Pools Showroom Today!

No matter where you are in Australia, you can find a local Compass Pools showroom or shop. We invite you to drop by and see what we have to offer, or you find your nearest authorised dealer to request a free, no-obligation quote right now!

The post How to Find a Reputable Pool Company Near You appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Pool Heating Systems: Which Should You Choose?

CPA — Wed, 03 Oct 2018 01:57:59 +0000

When you are planning your backyard swimming pool, it is important to consider which type of pool heating system to choose. There are a number of different options available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Here’s what you need to know about the different types of pool heating to help you choose the best one for your needs.

Why You need a Pool Heating System

All outdoor pools in Australia need a helping hand when it comes to heating the water. This is because pool water is not as warm as you might think. For example, a swimming pool in Melbourne is only likely to reach 16 or 22°C in the middle of summer.

Even if you live in one of the warmer regions of Australia, you will still need a pool heating system. The water might reach a temperature of almost 30°C at the height of summer, but during the winter months it could easily be 10 degrees cooler than this. You want to be able to enjoy your pool for most of the year, not just for the three or four months when the weather is at its hottest and you need to jump in the pool to cool off!

You also need to bear in mind that the sun’s rays hit the surface of the water, so this is always the warmest part of the pool. Even if it feels warm enough when you dip your toe into the water, the temperature beneath the surface is likely to be around three degrees cooler.

Remember, one of the main functions of having your own swimming pool in the backyard is to provide you with a place to relax. Cooler water might be bearable if you are constantly swimming laps, but if you want to take things a little easier sometimes, you need the water temperature to be comfortable. As a guide, public spas are heated to a temperature of 36°C. This is a water temperature in which most people can comfortably relax.

So, no matter where in Australia you are based, you need to choose a water heating system for your pool. But which is the right type of heater to choose?

What Are the Different Methods of Heating a Swimming Pool?

There are three main types of pool heating available for backyard swimming pools in Australia:

1. Solar Heating

Solar heating is the most popular method of pool heating, as well as the most cost-effective. It harnesses the natural energy from the sun to heat your pool, so it is safe and healthy for the environment, and saves you a lot of money on your household bills in comparison to the other available methods of heating your swimming pool.

Solar pool heating works via a solar pump, which is run using a very small amount of electricity — usually under 1 kW per hour. The solar pump pushes the water through a network of capillary tubes, ensuring the water stays heated to a constant temperature throughout the pool.

Solar heating systems work best in regions that get a lot of sunshine, as the solar power will be more reliable for more months of the year. On a warm, sunny day, a solar heating system can increase the temperature of your entire pool by two degrees, which makes a great amount of difference to the level of comfort you will experience in the water.

2. Electric Heating

Heat pumps are popular with Australian pool owners. By reusing the energy from the air, heat pumps can heat your pool without breaking the bank. Electric heat pumps are a relatively cost-effective means of heating your swimming pool. They work by collecting heat from the air and transferring it into your pool water via a heat exchanger.

Depending on the climate where you live, an electric heating system can sometimes be more effective than solar power, as it can still collect heat from the air during cloudy weather and at night, when the sun obviously is not shining. Electric pumps also tend to heat your pool water more quickly than solar heating systems.

However, electric heat pumps require a significantly greater amount of electricity to run than solar heating. This makes them more expensive and less environmentally friendly. A dedicated power circuit for the new electric heating will be required to accommodate your heat pump.

An electric system is also likely to give you a smaller increase in water temperature, so your pool might not feel so comfortable, even though you may be able to use it for more months of the year.

3. Gas Heating

Gas is the most expensive method of heating your pool, but in some ways it is the most effective, as it does not rely on the sun or the temperature of the air. A gas pool heater can maintain your pool water at practically any temperature you choose, at any time of year.

This is why gas heaters are the most popular means of heating spa water, as spas are used for hydrotherapy treatments to relieve pain and help people recover from muscular injuries. For this reason, spa water has to be maintained at a comfortable and relaxing temperature. If you are planning a spa or a pool and spa combination, gas might be the right choice of heating method for you.

Another advantage of gas heating systems is their ability to heat pool water quickly. A gas system, depending on its size, can heat the water in a spa in just under an hour, so it is ideal for those occasions when you want to use your pool in a hurry but the water is too cold.

Gas has a number of disadvantages as a pool heating system, however. It is not a clean form of energy, so it is harmful to the environment. In addition to this, it is extremely costly to run. This is why gas heaters are often only used as secondary systems to heat the water at times when the sun is not providing enough solar power.

Which Type of Pool Heating System Should You Choose?

The best type of heating for your swimming pool will depend on your individual circumstances. You will need to consider a number of factors, including:

The average temperatures where you live
The amount of sunshine your area gets
How often you want to use your pool
Whether you want to swim all year round
What your pool will be used for (swimming, relaxation, hydrotherapy)

You should also consider the needs of the other people who will be using your pool. For example, if you have young children or elderly relatives, they may need a warmer water temperature to feel comfortable, as they are unlikely to be swimming as intensively as you. If anyone using the pool has an injury or a condition that causes pain, they will also benefit from the pool water being a higher temperature.

Another important factor to think about is the size of your pool. A larger pool will need a more efficient heating system to ensure that the entire pool can be heated to a constant temperature.

Because there are so many different factors to consider when choosing a heating system for your pool, it is extremely important to consult with a plumber when you are planning your pool design and installation. They will be able to give a professional opinion on the best type of heater for the area you live in, as well as taking all your other needs into account.

It is essential that you consult with the plumber before your pool is installed, as most heating systems need to be installed at the same time as the pool. They usually have separate lines and pumps, so the plumbing firm will need to access everything they need in advance, ready to install the heating system as the pool is being built.

More Information About Pool Heating Systems

There are many things to think about when choosing your pool heating system. Perhaps one type of pool heater stands out as the obvious choice. Maybe you will need a combination of two different systems to suit all your lifestyle needs.

If you need any more information about pool heating systems or help choosing the right system for you, please contact your authorised Compass Pools dealer. Their pool builders have extensive experience in installing pools in a wide variety of different locations and climates, so they will be happy to answer all your questions and help you make an informed choice about the most appropriate heating system for your pool.

The post Pool Heating Systems: Which Should You Choose? appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Pool Lighting: The Best Ways to Light Your Pool

CPA — Tue, 18 Sep 2018 20:53:53 +0000

Your swimming pool is a beautiful design feature in your backyard, and you need to be able to enjoy it at any time of the day or night. This means you will need the right lighting for your pool.

But which type of lighting to choose? And how do you create the perfect pool lighting design? Here we answer some of the most common questions we receive from our customers about swimming pool lighting, to help you highlight your pool to best effect.

What Are the Different Types of Pool Lights?

Swimming pool lighting has come a long way in recent years thanks to the latest technology. There are two main types of lighting that are used in and around swimming pools, but energy efficiency and cost are major considerations when choosing the right type of lighting for your pool. Incandescent bulbs were used for decades but they are not being installed anymore. These original regular light bulbs used large amounts of energy, so they were not particularly good for the environment. They also tended to need replacing up to three times per year, which could be a difficult job in a swimming pool.

1. Halogen Lighting

Halogen bulbs gradually replaced incandescent bulbs as the standard type of pool lighting. They lasted longer, and used up to 20 percent less energy, so they were more environmentally friendly. They also cut down the time required for pool maintenance, as they needed replacing less often.

However, halogen bulbs cost almost twice as much as incandescent bulbs, so they were a more expensive option, in spite of the savings made on household bills due to reduced energy use. They also required fairly regular replacement, and as they still used filaments, they gave the same green cast to the water as incandescent bulbs. These factors meant that halogen was still not the ideal choice for swimming pool lighting.

2. LED Lighting

LED technology has revolutionised swimming pool lighting. Cost-effective, clean, and long-lasting, LED lighting can produce the same amount of light as a 100-watt halogen bulb while using only six watts of power. This is because LED lighting is highly energy efficient, as it converts all of the energy it uses into light rather than some of it being converted into heat, so nothing is wasted.

Because of this, LED lighting is kind to the environment and cheap to run, as it uses only a fraction of the electricity required by halogen bulbs. LED lamps also last much longer, so your pool will require far less maintenance. This leaves you free to spend more time enjoying the water.

For these reasons, LED lighting has now become the standard type of lighting used for new swimming pools in Australia.

What Colours of Pool Lights Are Available?

One of the main advantages of modern LED swimming pool lighting is the amount of colour choices available. LED lighting does not use a filament to produce light, so it does not have the yellow glow of incandescent or halogen bulbs that can give your pool water a green appearance.

Instead, white LED lights are pure white, so even at night, the colour of your swimming pool will stay true to its daytime appearance, showing off your pool to best advantage after dark.

Alternatively, you can choose a red, blue, and green LED lighting system. These three colours can be combined to produce pool lighting in any colour you choose, personalising the appearance of your pool to suit your tastes. You can also change the colour of your pool lighting easily whenever you want a change of mood, or program your lighting to alternate through a range of different colours. This can be a highly effective feature for evening pool parties, helping to create an extra celebratory atmosphere.

How Easy Are LED Pool Lights to Use?

Another great feature of LED pool lighting is its level of practicality. Modern swimming pool lighting systems are easily programmable, so you can set them to turn on and off at specific times. This cuts down even further on energy wastage, saving you more money on your household bills.

Many LED pool lighting systems can also now be paired with the rest of your home automation. This offers the ultimate convenience, as you can turn your pool lights on and off, or even program your different colour choices using a simple smartphone app. Your pool can be lit in the colour of your choice, ready for you to enjoy the moment you arrive home! This is also a great way of saving time if you are preparing your home for a party or evening with friends.

How Many Swimming Pool Lights Do You Need?

This really depends on a number of factors:

The size and shape of your swimming pool
The amount of light in the area surrounding your pool
The design and colour effects that you want to achieve.

Obviously, a large pool will require more lights than a smaller pool. If you live in a rural area without much ambient light, your pool may also need more lighting to ensure everybody can see it, reducing the danger of accidents. This is particularly important if you have young children.

You should think about the shape of the pool when planning your pool lighting. If it is curved or L-shaped, you need to make sure all areas of the pool are well-lit. This also applies if you have any additional areas to your pool, such as a joined-on spa area. Plenty of lighting around the steps is also essential, so everyone can see to get in and out of the pool safely.

Finally, think about the aesthetic effects. Are there any areas of the pool you particularly want to highlight? For example, if your pool has a water feature, you will want to make sure this has adequate lighting so it can still look its best after dark.

Which Are the Best Ways to Position Your Pool Lights?

Your pool lighting design needs to be planned before your swimming pool is installed, once you know the size and shape of your pool and where in your backyard it will be positioned. Remember to consider how the landscaping around the pool will look when the installation is complete — you won’t just need lights inside the pool, you will also need to light the area surrounding it.

Strategically placed garden lights can highlight particular features of the landscaping, while floodlights are ideal if you have a large area you want to illuminate. Be careful not to overdo the lighting, however, as this can take away from the character of your pool, and your design features will not be highlighted so well.

You also need to think about your pool lighting design from a practical point of view. Remember, it will need to be wired into your electricity mains. Your pool lights need to be positioned in a way that makes this possible.

The best option is to consult with an electrician during the planning phase of your swimming pool project. They will be able to advise you on the most practical positioning for your pool lights as well as the visual effects that you will be able to achieve.

Which Brand of Lighting Should You Choose?

There are many different brands of pool lighting on the market, but they do not all offer the same benefits. It can be tempting to choose the cheapest option, but in the long run, this is not always the most practical choice.

Firstly, the lights have to be capable of achieving the effects that you want. Your pool is a major investment, and if it looks attractive, it will add considerable value to your home. This means it is important to give plenty of consideration to its appearance. In addition, you want to enjoy spending time in your pool, and you will feel a lot more comfortable there if it reflects your personal tastes and coordinates well with the rest of your property.

In addition, you should look at the warranties that different lighting brands offer. Repairing or replacing swimming pool lighting systems can be a difficult job that needs to be tackled by a professional, so it is essential to choose a company that will do this for you if anything goes wrong. More often than not, cheaper brands do not manufacture their products to such high standards, and do not offer particularly good warranties. Needless to mention, these might not save you money at all and could even end up costing you more.

Before choosing a lighting system, it is advisable to speak with your pool consultant. An experienced company will have worked with many different lighting systems, so they will be able to recommend the best brands to choose.

Find Out More About Swimming Pool Lighting

If you would like more information about swimming pool lighting systems, brands, and design ideas, please contact one of our authorised dealers. Enter the postcode or search by your area to find your local pool builder. Their specialist pool consultants will be happy to answer all your questions and help you choose the perfect lighting for your backyard swimming pool.

Checkout some of the swimming pools our dealers have installed by dusk with their pool lights on:

The post Pool Lighting: The Best Ways to Light Your Pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Planning for a pool: should you construct a pool before or after building your house?

Steve Vimpani — Wed, 06 May 2015 20:04:10 +0000

Video transcription: A great question we’re often asked is, if I’m going to build a house, how do I go about planning the pool? If it is such that you’ve got a block that when the house is built, you’re going to lose your access, it’s really important to consider putting the pool in first. At Compass, we call that a sleeper pool. So you can certainly come to us and talk to use about installing a sleeper pool.

The other consideration is, if you’re going to have access, we can certainly put the pool in after the house is built. But the consideration might be, if it’s going to be anywhere near the house for example, you want to make sure you consult with your builder and ensure that the footings for that house are constructed in such a way that it lets you come up and excavate near the house. So there are those sorts of considerations that must be taken into account.

If you’re at that point and you think, yes, I really need to talk to someone about whether I build the pool first or do it after, certainly bring your plans into Compass and we’ll talk to you about it. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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Essential Pool Planning Considerations

Steve Vimpani — Wed, 06 May 2015 19:56:47 +0000

What are some of the biggest pool planning considerations?

Video transcription: There are lots of exciting things about building a swimming pool. But one of the considerations you need to take into account is what am I dealing with on my block? In many cases we are out at properties which have things such as easements. They are areas which you just can’t build over. It’s on your property but it really belongs to the council.

Other considerations are things like main sewer lines and so forth. There is a house sewer line that generally connects the main sewer lines unless you’re on a system such as a septic tank and that is a different consideration altogether. But where you’ve got a house sewer line that connects to a main sewer line, and you think that is in the path of the pool, that is not such a problem. Those things can be diverted. The main sewer lines for example, or any other thing that is fairly substantial, needs to have really careful consideration as to how we build around it.

Other important factors are thinking of things like how close is the pool going to be to the house, or maybe retaining walls? They are the sorts of considerations that we need to really look at and ensure that when a pool is being built, really when an excavation is being created for the pool, that we’re not going to undermine any of those structures.

These are just general things that we really want to take into account. If you can get a good understanding of what those things are in relation to where you want to place your pool, this can be a really important starting point.

There are other considerations such as how far you build off a boundary. Most councils will have minimum setbacks. Some are really relaxed and we can actually get quite close. The key thing is just start thinking about where that pool is going to go, what services and so forth you think might exist there and anything you might think might be a potential issue in terms of us coming out and starting to dig that pool in the position you want.

Nine times out of ten we’re going to be able to cope with most of the circumstances quite well and we’re pretty used to it. But if you just get a bit of an idea, we’re certainly off to a good start. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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Compass Pool’s Swimming Pool Construction Process

Steve Vimpani — Thu, 07 May 2015 05:54:47 +0000

Swimming Pool Construction: How does it work and what’s involved?

Video transcription: I guess first off most clients have a bit of an understanding of what they want. From there I lead into what they’re going to use the pool for, how much room they think they might need, how many kids, do they entertain a lot. It’s basically finding out what they need. From there we can work out the best way to go about that.

I guess the most common questions that we’re always asked is should I lay pavers on sand or should I lay them on concrete? Traditionally, we used to lay all our pavers on sand around a pool. Most of the time they were a small format, so we could get away with laying them. These days, most people want large format pavers, large format concrete or natural stone. So nowadays you can’t lay pavers on sand around the pool purely because of the movements around the sand that washes out. You get a far better job on concrete.

A lot of the time we go to do houses they’ve either left their al fresco so we can tie in with the pool or they’ve already got tiles. Typically I say this is your pool area. You want it to be slightly different than the rest of your house if you’ve already got matching tiles. So you want the pool area to stand out and make that the showpiece for the house.

Every pool that sells obviously has to have a bond beam. A standard beam is suitable for one paver to go all the way round and that maintains the structural integrity of the pool. We can go anywhere from a standard paver up to whatever distance you want to go out from the pool depending on the size of your yard and the living area that you want.

To determine how far we go out, sometimes we try to match the area of what they’re laying with the size of the paver. That is so you can have a seamless line between the whole area reducing the cutting down. This is not for labour but more for the visual aspect of the job. So we try to help them out to whatever size paver to make that look good going round the whole job and working out with our fence lines and things like that.

A bond beam is a concrete beam, a structural beam that goes round the ring of the pool. That maintains the structural integrity of the pool. Typically it is 370mm wide. That suits a 600 x 400 paver or a 400 x 400 paver. You’re not limited to just the beam, you can extend that beam to whatever distance you want. It is better to extend the beam out so we have one seamless pour. Otherwise you’re going to have an expansion joint between the bond beam and the coping paver and the rest of the paver, whether you have concrete or whatnot. You want to try to eliminate that. If you can do it all in one pour, it is going to a lot stronger and you’re going to get a far better job.

Personally for me as a contractor for the type of work that we do, as much as I can, I like to try to speak to the owners of the pool before the pool goes in. That way you can eliminate any problems. You can get the right heights, you can work out where a cut and a fill may be, any retaining walls, any plumbing, where you’re going to run electricity so you don’t have a problem in the future. Probably the most important thing is the height of the pool, getting the height of the pool in relation to your al fresco area, your entertaining area, whatever it may be. That’s very critical because once the pool is in, you can’t move it.

I always like to speak to the clients about exactly what they want so we can map out the whole yard and get the result that they’re after. We always notify the client when we’re going to be there. We ring up a couple of days before, notify them what time we’re going to arrive on site, if they’re going to be home. Normally I like them to be there for the first day so we can go over the whole job and make sure they understand exactly what is going on. We make sure they understand what they are getting and how it is all going to look.

From there we set out the process of what happens, the order of operations of the job. We explain whether it is retaining walls first, whether it is concreting, we form up. Typically on a standard job, once Compass has finished installing the pool, we will come in and form up and pour the concrete. That cures for approximately two to three weeks and then we can come back and lay all the tiles or paving or whatever you choose. That can take anywhere from a day to two weeks depending on the size of the job.

Definitely get a contractor who can understand pool surrounds, typically a professional landscaper. Try to stick to one trade if they can, without having multiple trades. That way it cuts down on how many people are on the site. It cuts down any errors of communication between one trade and another trade. That’s why we’re experts in what we do because we can handle the whole lot.

I had a client yesterday. I said if they want to see the finished product, I can give them names and numbers or even organize for myself to go out there and take them out there. We can have a look at the products so they can feel it, so they can see what it is going to look like before they actually get the product installed.

People ask my opinion all the time. There are so many options you can have. Some people choose a longer coping paver and then they have a 400 x 400, a square paver for the surrounding area. People do the opposite. They have a smaller paver and then they have a longer paver for the outskirts or they have one product. There are so many different options.

I think when you try to overcomplicate a pool area that’s when it starts to get a bit messy. We try to keep one product and then split it up with a feature tile all they way through, something small that is not going to stand out too much. I think the subtle touches that you do are far better than trying to do different colours or mix and match that way.

Once we’ve finished laying the tiles or pavers, you have to wait a minimum of seven days before we can seal the pavers, just to let the grout cure and let the moisture come out before we seal them. Then after that, within twenty-four to forty-eight hours, they can start enjoying their pool. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

If you are looking for a swimming pool constructor, please go to our Pool Builders page to select your closest authorised Compass Pool Dealer. Or give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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Pool Building Time And Construction Timetable

Steve Vimpani — Thu, 07 May 2015 05:50:24 +0000

Swimming pool building time: from planning to installation, how long it will take

Video transcription: A lot of people who come into my display centre to have an early-stage think about getting a pool always want to know what is involved in getting a pool. Among a hundred different things that are important when you’re planning a pool, how long it takes comes up pretty often.

You need to, I think, nut it down into four areas. They are planning the pool, getting the approval to build the pool and having the pool built, so that is effectively the installation of the pool. That is before all the nice cosmetic, easier things like the fencing and the paving all come to fruition.

To plan your pool, you can take as long as your want. At the end of the day, you’ve got to make the decision. Planning your pool involves going and having a look at what pool suits you, working thorough the options and the recommendations, and then saying, yes, this is right for me. I like this pool, this size, this colour, with this operating system. I can see myself using it like this, this and this, ticking all the boxes. I’m happy to be doing business with you. You’re a builder, I like the people who are going to be putting it in, I’m happy to go ahead.

When that happens, a contract is drawn up. A contract is the agreement, as the pool builder I’m going to do x, y and z; as the customer, you’re going to do x, y and z and we’re going to go ahead with it.

Your approval, depending on whether you’re going through a council body or a private certifier, it doesn’t matter too much which, that roughly, depending on councils, is a four to six week process. During that time, I always tell my customers, we’ve got this time when no one can really do anything. This is good opportunity to go and have a bit of a look around at pavers and different finishers and things like that.

Once you get your approvals back, they come to us as the builder and we say, yes, absolutely, they can have a pool, we’re all good to go. Then your pool gets custom-made for you. We like to allow, depending on the time of the year really, three to five weeks in the manufacturing process of the pool. It’s made, it’s ready for you and then you move into a construction schedule.

A construction schedule is one of those things that can move around a fair bit. So you’ll always give a tentative install date but we’re not weather gods. We never know what is going to happen with the weather. You may be jumped forward a week or you might be pushed out for two weeks. But that whole process in its entirety from you making the decision and we’re good to go, is often between a five to ten week process, realistically.

There are things that come up. You could all of a sudden, it has happened to me, people have said, school holidays. We’re going away. You had me booked for this stage, can we be two weeks later? Most pool builders can easily work with that. The time really is on you and when you can make a decision, the weather, what it’s doing and of course your councils. You definitely don’t want to be planning a pool in November thinking Christmas day is going to be at your place. That is not going to happen. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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Why Real Estate Agents Prefer Compass Pools For Pool Installation

Steve Vimpani — Thu, 07 May 2015 05:49:01 +0000

Why do Compass Pools clients choose a Compass Pool

Video transcription: Another fantastic testament to the Compass pool is that we have a lot of people who are not too far dissociated from the pool industry purchasing a Compass pool. We do a lot of pools for real estate agents. They know the power of introducing a prospective buyer to a house and saying, hey, this pool literally looks after itself.

I’ve had a couple of great experiences working with a few council people this year. They’re choosing their Compass pool for really specific reasons. I put a pool in just recently for the head inspector of one of the local councils here. He’s got an interesting job. He would go out to properties and he would issue them with what is called a final occupation certificate. That usually happens about twelve months after someone has had their pool installed.

Out of self interest, he was building his own home and wanted to install a pool. Every time he went to a property, he said to someone what do you think of your pool? People would say, yes, the kids enjoy it. There is a bit of work associated with it. Then he found someone who owns a Compass pool. Every time he spoke to a Compass pool owner, they’d say, it’s great. We don’t have to do anything. All of a sudden, this particular gentleman thought Compass was the right company for him.

I recently had a great experience working with an MD of a local council. I’d put several pools in for some of his staff and he didn’t know it. I immediately thought, this is how he knows about us.

But when I asked him about why he was installing this Compass pool or even how he found out about us, he said, this house is really important to us. We designed the house and we built the house. We always thought a pool would really complement it but we just weren’t sure. One of the reasons we weren’t sure is we are really only intending to stay here for the next ten to twelve years. So I asked a very good friend of mine to come over and give me their recommendation as to whether or not we should put a pool in.

I said, who was that? Were they a Compass pool owner? He said, actually, they’re not. They were a local real estate agent. She came over and said, I thoroughly recommend that you put in a pool. This type of house commands it and you will get a lot of enjoyment from it. What you do is, you don’t put anything in but a Compass self-cleaning pool.

Wow! That’s pretty exciting for us. That’s pretty much where our technology is today. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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Planning A New Pool – Follow This Advice

Steve Vimpani — Thu, 07 May 2015 05:42:40 +0000

Planning a new pool? Ask yourself why you want a swimming pool

Video transcription: I’ve helped hundreds of people plan their new pool. I really think that the three most important things to have a bit of a think about when you’re doing that is first the purpose, what you’re actually going to use your pool for. Is it for kids, family fun, is it just something pretty to look at, have barbecues around? Does it need to be suitable for anyone elderly who is getting into the pool?

The other thing is effort – how much effort you want to put into owning it. If you’re time poor and you do not see yourself out cleaning the pool or out there testing the water chemistry, there are certain things that you can do that can take a lot of that effort out of it.

A big thing a lot of real estate agents tell me is that position is a pretty big factor in the planning stages. If you’ve got a nice family home and you’ve got kids, you always want to make sure that you’ve got a nice area for kids to play in the yard and you’ve got your pool in an area you can see clearly from the house or off the al fresco area.

I think the purpose, what you’re going to use it for, how much effort and where it’s going to go are pretty important things to have a bit of a think about. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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How Long Is The Pool Construction Process?

Steve Vimpani — Thu, 07 May 2015 05:36:46 +0000

How long is the pool construction process?

Video transcription: We’re often asked how long is it going to take to build my swimming pool?

There are a couple of different elements that come together for that. Obviously we’ve worked through the time for contracting the swimming pool, designing it, doing all the bits necessary for now to be well on our way to having a pool in the backyard.

The next step for us is we need to manufacture it. Every Compass pool is built to order. We don’t build your swimming pool until we get an order for it. So it’s always your very own swimming pool, issued with its very own birth certificate. This is an important element of Compass Pools.

The other part of the process is that we need to have this pool approved. So it will be submitted to council, go through the approval process and depending on where you are, what council area, what state, there are going to be different times in relation to the approval process. The next part is then the installation process. We’re literally coming up with a day when we’re going to determine, after the council approval, to install your pool.

The process from there is generally fairly fast. It’s also dependent upon weather. If we have a bad run of weather, we’re going to need to move that installation date to a different time. When we come in and install your pool, generally it takes a couple of days for us to excavate and install the pool and fill it full of water. We then allow that pool to sit for a couple of weeks before installing an engineered concrete beam around it and finish the surrounds. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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Pool Planning Advice Before Building

Steve Vimpani — Thu, 07 May 2015 05:33:46 +0000

Great pool planning advice from the Compass Pools team

Video transcription: Having worked at Compass for a little under ten years now, one of the best pieces of advice I can give anybody considering or looking at putting in a swimming pool is take your time. A swimming pool is generally something that when people are considering putting one in, they’re usually pretty committed to their house. It usually means a long term investment in the property that they currently reside in.

This is not like going out and purchasing a motor car. If you went out and bought a motor car and decided, you know what, I just don’t like this car, there is something wrong with it, you can sell it. You can’t sell your pool without selling your house. So you want to be really careful when you think about all of the different options and all of the different inclusions that you can make part of that swimming pool.

That’s why we really encourage you to come and talk to us. We have tremendous and unique options. There are so many points of difference with a Compass swimming pool that we get pretty excited about it. We’d like to take the time and take you right through and make sure you’re fully equipped with as much information as you need. Often that will result in us getting you out to talk to some of our customers.

So take your time, there is no rush because once it’s in, it’s in for good. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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Buying A Pool: How Much Does a Swimming Pool Cost?

Steve Vimpani — Wed, 06 May 2015 19:23:50 +0000

How much does a swimming pool cost? Great advice for anyone doing research about buying a pool

Video transcription: Often people will walk into Compass or they’ll give us a call on the phone and they’ll say, how much for a swimming pool? It’s such a great question and is a difficult one to immediately answer. There are just so many different options and inclusions and site differences and things that are particular or may be particular about that pool. These will change the overall cost.

It’s not dissimilar from someone walking into a car yard where there are a whole range of cars on offer and saying, how much for a car? No one really does that because we’ve all been educated enough to know what a car is and that there are lots of different inclusions you can have.

The pool industry is not dissimilar except you probably don’t have as much information. You certainly will when you come and talk to us. If I was the salesman of a car and I said to you, would you like power steering and air conditioning with that car, you’d probably look at me today and think, this guy is crazy. Of course I want that.

There are very similar inclusions to power steering and air conditioning that you can put in your pool that are just as important as the way you see that in a motor car. They’re the things that we really want to drill down on and we’d like to talk to you about or at least make available to you. Then when you make a decision on this, you’re making a well informed decision for the long term. Give one of the team a call today on 1300 667 445.

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Timing your pool build so that you are ready to swim in summer

Steve Vimpani — Mon, 03 Nov 2014 22:31:07 +0000

If you want to be swimming in your new pool in summer then you actually need to be planning the construction of your pool well before things start to warm up. It comes as no surprise that most people begin to think about buying a pool when it is already hot. Unfortunately, by the time you sort out a plan, get approval from local authorities and then get scheduled into your pool builder’s timeline, the chances are that your pool may not be fully finished until the following summer.

It pays to have everything sorted before summer starts if you want to enjoy a long summer of swimming

Naturally, spring and summer brings warmer and drier weather so most pool builders become very busy with pool installations during this time. The earlier that you solidify your plans the more likely it is that your pool will be ready for you to enjoy all summer long.

To a certain degree deciding what type of pool (and what pool company) to go with is the easy part. Once you’ve made that decision there is still a number of factors which can influence when your pool goes in the ground. A few of the things that impact on when your pool will be installed include:

Your design plan: it’s one thing to decide what shape, size and brand of pool you want but before your pool plan can be submitted to authorities for approval you’ll have to decide on its exact position as well as where the pool enclosure boundaries will be. The sooner you make these crucial decisions the sooner your pool builder will be able to get the ball rolling for you.
Obtaining Consent: before you install a swimming pool in your backyard you must obtain consent from your local council/planning authority. This process involves submitting a detailed plan of the pool and surrounding areas for their consideration. The approval process can take up to six weeks (sometimes longer if they ask for more information). During that time construction is unable to begin.
Your pool builder’s production timeline: Once you have received the appropriate approvals, your pool builder can place your pool into their installation timeline. It is important to remember that your pool builder may have several pools ahead them before they can begin construction on your site. The earlier you get the ball rolling the more chance there is that your pool builder’s timetable will match yours.
The type of pool you choose: it goes without saying that some pool types are far faster than others to install. Whilst a composite fibreglass pool can usually be installed over a number of days (with a typical handover in a couple of weeks), it can take several weeks or even months to complete a concrete pool.

The early bird gets the worm!

Although a Compass pool can be quick and easy to install, we still tell people that the best advice is to allow yourself several months to go through the planning and approval process. In other words if you truly do want to be swimming in your new pool on Christmas day it pays to have your pool contract locked in place by the beginning of spring.

The best advice is to have an honest conversation with your pool builder about the timeframes you can expect to work within. All companies are different and some will be “booked up” for summer sooner than others. If you are getting close to summer and your pool builder is suggesting that your pool will be installed within a tight time frame, make sure you’re not walking into an “over-promise/under deliver” situation.

Never sacrifice the pool you want for the sake of timing

It pays to remember that once your new swimming pool goes in the ground it is there forever, so make sure you are completely happy with what you are about to commit to. Once you have your heart set on one particular pool brand, don’t let timing get in the way, there will be plenty more summers to come!

It’s also a common misperception that if your pool is not in the ground for Christmas then you’ve missed the boat. NOT TRUE! The fact is the swimming season extends beyond January through to March and many people keep using their pools well into April and even later with pool heating systems.

The bottom line is that there is never really a ‘wrong’ time to order your new pool. If your pool is installed in winter it simply means you have plenty of time to complete the surrounding areas before summer arrives. If your pool is installed during summer it means you get to enjoy it straight away, even though the landscaping may not be finished. Either way, your pool will provide you with years of family fun!

How Much would YOUR POOL Cost?

Plunge pool, family pool or a lap pool? Fill in your details to find out how much a Compass Pool would cost at your place. No obligations!