A brief history of Compass Pools Australia and Paramount

Compass Pools Australia and Paramount have been working closely together to revolutionise the fiberglass pool industry. Since 1998, Compass and Paramount have assisted each other in designing the enhanced circulation -self-cleaning fiberglass pool technology that is now trusted and beloved by over 25,000 customers across Australia. The Vantage technology encourages proper bottom to top pool water circulation, ensuring proper mixing of pool chemicals and even dispersion of heat, providing significant savings in chemical and heating costs alongside the self-cleaning benefits of the system. Our assistance in designing some of fiberglass specific parts of the Vantage pool system with customer and installer ease of use in mind, lead to Compass’ founder and owner, Ian Mewett, being recognised by Paramount’s President Mr. Buzz Ghiz with the Vantage Founders Award in 2005. Ian Mewett’s son and Compass Technical Service & Warranty Manager, Scott Mewett, said this award recognised how much of an impact Ian’s work made on the fiberglass industry, not only in Australia, but throughout Europe and the USA.

“At the time, no one else was selling or installing in-floor cleaning systems in fiberglass pools, so we worked alongside Paramount in those early years to improve the Vantage system to make it readily available and popular for fiberglass pools all around the world”, Scott said. “Currently the popularity of in-floor cleaning and circulation systems has grown with 65% to 70% of Compass’ customers [annually] ordering a pool with some sort of in-floor cleaning and circulation system installed… this is probably one of the highest installation rates by any individual fiberglass pool manufacturer anywhere in the world, which is why Compass is known as ‘the home of the self-cleaning pool.’”

Paramount’s 2021 International Award of Excellence has recognised how far Compass have come within the past 25 years in growing the market for Vantage pool technology in Australia. We are very proud to receive this reward and would like to again thank Paramount and Hayward for their continued support and dedication in assisting us to innovate the fiberglass pool industry.

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Pool Safety

Supervision

Designing a swimming pool with children’s pool safety needs in mind, will help ensure everyone can enjoy a safe time while in the water. Perhaps the biggest pool safety feature for children around water is active adult supervision. Some great ways you can design supervision into your pool area is by ensuring you can clearly see the pool from your house, back deck, backyard and from any spot within the pool area. This can be done by removing obstacles such as trees, pot plants or objects that may hinder your clear view of the water. Designing a comfortable seated area around your pool is another great way to incorporate active adult supervision into your pool design. The design possibilities for these kinds of areas are endless! You could incorporate comfortable lounge chairs with padded and adjustable backs, large umbrellas and even add tables to ensure you can comfortably relax while supervising. Don’t forget to place your supervision area where you can clearly view and access the pool while also ensuring you are outside the splash zone.

X Trainer 10.2m in colour Pacific. Installed by Compass Pools Christchurch.

Sun Safety

Another great children’s pool safety design feature is sun safe areas. The sun in the hotter months can be strong, increasing the risk of sun burn and heatstroke- especially for children. These days there are a variety of shade options available that suit most pool areas and design styles- ranging from umbrellas, all the way through to permanent shade structures such as gazebos or cabanas. When incorporating these options into your pool area, ensure your shade cover doesn’t block or hinder your line of sight to the water. The way you style your sun safe areas can be endless- you could place the shade cover over the pool, beside the pool, or both. To find out more about the design possibilities for sun safe pool areas, contact your local pool installer.  Another way you can incorporate sun safety into your pool design is by placing a tube of broad-spectrum sunscreen in an easily accessible place close to the pool. Don’t forget to encourage your kids to slip, slop, slap and reapply the sunscreen ever two hours, as the water can cause it to wear off quicker. Encouraging your kids to wear sun protective clothing such as hats, long sleeve rash shirts and sunglasses as well as reminding them to drink water is another great way you can incorporate sun safety into your pool area.

Vogue 10.2m in colour Pacific. Pool with umbrella and shaded seating area. Installed by Swan Hill Pool & Spa Centre

Fencing

A fantastic children’s pool safety feature is a legally compliant fence that has an outward opening and self-latching gate. These days swimming pool fences come in a variety of styles that suit most backyard designs. Make sure that there are no climbable objects near the pool fence, such as trees, pot plants etc. This will help ensure unsupervised children can’t gain access to the pool area. Contact your local council to find out more about the fencing regulations you need to adhere to in your local area.

Design Features

Customised Design

Custom design features allow you to build a pool that is great for children (and adults) of all ages, while helping you get the most out of your pool investment. By incorporating customised design features into your pool, you can create an area that will be child friendly, while also looking fantastic within your backyard. Children love playing and swimming within shallow water spaces as it allows them to gain confidence within the water. Customised design features, such as waders, beaches and benches are a great way to incorporate these water play areas into your pool. As your children grow, you can turn these shallow water areas into a place of relaxation by incorporating options such as in- built water lounge chairs, or simply leave them as the perfect place to rest on a hot day. Other child friendly pool customisation options include water features (such as bubblers), sunpods, and pool toys (such as water slides). These customisation options are popular with children, especially at pool parties. Water features and sunpods are fantastic as they provide hours of fun, while looking visually stunning in any backyard space. Water slides are great for children of all ages, and once your children get too old- they can be easily removed by a professional. When it comes to pool customisation options that provide hours of fun for families of all ages, the skies the limit! Contact your local pool builder to find out more today.

Vogue 8m in colour Quartz. Customised options such as sunpods and bubblers provide hours of fun for the kids. Pool installed By Compass Pools Newcastle.

Vogue 9.4m in colour Pearl with Sunpod and X Trainer Spa. Pool installed by Local Pools & Spas.

Toy Storage

When thinking of child friendly design features in your pool area, make sure you think about pool toy storage. Adequate pool toy storage allows your pool area to remain clean and clutter free, it also ensures that there are no tripping hazards around the water. These days toy storage can be as fancy or as simple as you like. From storage chests that look like bench chairs to simple bucket like containers, whatever type of toys you need to store, there is most probably a storage solution for it! Check out your local pool shop or hardware store to find the right storage solution for you.

X Trainer 10.2m in colour Pacific with pool toys. Pool installed by Compass Pools Christchurch.

Pool Cleaning

When designing with children in mind it is important to think about investing in a pool that is always ready to swim in when you and your family are. On a hot summer day, no one wants to have to stop and clean the debris and leaves out of the pool before swimming. Investing in a cleaning system that minimises the amount of time and energy it takes to keep you pool clean, ensures that your pool is ready to go every time you are. Systems such as The Vantage Self-Cleaning help take the hassle and stress out of cleaning your pool. Vantage works by ensuring adequate circulation is provided throughout the whole pool, allowing for proper water filtration and efficient debris removal. This keeps your pool ready to swim at all times without the need for you to manually clean the debris and leaves yourself! Contact your local pool builder to find out more about The Vantage system.

The post How To Design A Swimming Pool With Children In Mind: Pool Safety & Design Features appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

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

Swimming Pool Gate Checklist

Landscape Surrounding Pool Fence Check List

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.

Three reasons why investing in a pool cover is a great idea

1) A pool cover is a great way to add heat to your pool

Especially if you don’t have a solar or electric heat pump. A pool cover, such as the Solar Gains Cover is a fantastic way to achieve extra heat.

Solar Gains Cover: A Solar Gains Cover is similar to a bubble wrap blanket for your swimming pool. It is designed to let heat transfer from the sun directly into your pool, while simultaneously providing a protective barrier to prevent heat escaping from the water. A Solar Gains Cover from a reputable manufacturer can add, in some cases, as much as four or five degrees of heat to your swimming pool when compared to a non-covered pool! We have even heard that swimming pools with this cover can get so warm, that people choose to leave them off for a day or two. A Solar Gains Cover is a great way to add extra heat to your swimming pool, especially if you don’t have a heat pump.

2) A pool cover can provide Thermal Protection

Pool covers are also a fantastic way to provide thermal protection to your swimming pool. If you have a solar heater or heat pump in your swimming pool, a thermal protection cover, such as the Heat Retention Blanket is a great way to keep the warmth in.

Heat Retention Blanket: A heat retention blanket is different in consistency to a Solar Gains cover, as it tends to be more foam-like with a reflective material on top. Everything about this blanket is designed to keep the heat in your swimming pool, and to stop it from escaping. Did you know, over 90% of a swimming pools warmth is lost through it’s surface? A good quality Heat Retention Blanket helps to drastically reduce the majority of that heat loss, particularly overnight. The added benefit, is that with less heat loss, your pool heater or pump won’t have to work so hard to regulate your pool’s temperature. Meaning that a Heat Protection Blanket may even reduce your ongoing power consumption and costs!

Contemporary 16.6m custom in colour Evolution with thermal pool cover. Installed by North West Pools.

3) Swimming pool covers are great for debris management

Debris management covers typically look mesh like, and are a great way to reduce debris, such as tree leaves, from entering your swimming pool. A debris pool cover can be placed directly onto the swimming pools surface, however if you live in a high debris area, attaching the cover to the pavers around the pool will provide more options for varying degrees of debris control. Alternatively, you can control debris by using a Solar Gains Cover or a Heat Retention Blanket. However, it is important to note, that a self-cleaning swimming pool further assists with debris management, and may reduce your need for a debris management pool cover.

Vogue 7.15m in colour Pacific with roller cover. Pool installed by Composite Pools.

How to Integrate your pool cover and roller into your swimming pool area

The great thing about swimming pool covers and rollers, is that there are plenty of options and styles to suit all budgets and aesthetic needs. They are highly customisable and can be integrated into your pool area, any way you like. The best way to decide which cover and roller style suits your needs is to have a conversation with your pool planner.

If you are on a budget, there are some great standard cover and roller units available that sit at the end of your pool. These units can be placed on top of your deck or concrete patio, and easily unwind to protect your pool as needed.

17m custom Fastlane in colour Pacific with roller cover. Installed by Capital Country Pools.

If you are concerned about the aesthetics of your cover and roller unit- no worries! There are some great options to suit your needs. Some manufacturers offer options where your pool cover rolls back into a bench seat. Or you can always just custom your very own design, that suits the functionality and style of your pool area.

Other great options include inground or in-deck rollers and covers. These can be designed in two ways.

1) Inground/ Cover Pit

These covers are installed in pits beneath a deck or into the concrete around your swimming pool. To roll out these covers, simply open the lid, pull it out above your deck and then slide it across the top of your pool. To wind it back, simply use a 90-degree crank shaft.

2) In Deck Roller

These covers are installed by creating a pit under your decking, and then ensuring that the decking goes right up to the edge of the pool. Once complete your cover simply rolls out from under the deck and is completely hidden from sight when not in use.

Vogue 10.2m Swimming Pool in colour Pearl with in deck roller cover. Installed by Central Pools

Important advice about swimming pool covers

This advice is important for anyone using a cover on their swimming pool- especially if you have an automated chemical dosing system, such as a salt chlorinator or a liquid chlorine feeder. UV light and rays break down chemicals such as chlorine, and pool covers act as a barrier between your pool and the sun. As a result, if your pool cover is on for a long uninterrupted period of time, the sun can’t break down the chemicals in your pool. This can increase the concentration of chlorine and chemicals, and may result in serious damage to the shell of your swimming pool. This damage, depending on the extent, may be treatable but is extremely costly, and in some cases the chemical damage cannot be fixed. To prevent this in times such as winter, or if you know your pool won’t be used for a while, keep these two helpful tips in mind.

1) Reduce the dosage

Reduce the dosage of chemicals in your swimming pool system during the period of non-use or when you are going away. This helps to prevent chemical concentration building up and thus prevents chemical damage.

2) Remove the pool cover

Or remove the pool cover during the period in which the pool is not in use. This simply prevents chemicals from building up, because the UV rays have direct access to break them down.

Refresh 6.1m Express Pool in colour Grey-Marble with pool cover. Installed by The Little Pool Co.

Swimming pool covers and rollers are a great option for pool protection, heat and debris control. They can assist with reducing costs, but just remember to adjust the chemicals or remove the cover if the pool is not in use for long periods of time.

The post Pool Covers and Rollers appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Water Features: A pool customisation that enhances the overall look of your pool

Water features like blades, waterfalls, jets and fountains are a fantastic way to transform your pool area without having to spend a lot of money and are a great hit with the kids as they are highly interactive.  Water features look visually spectacular, however, one important thing to keep in mind is the noise pollution they create through the sound of constant splashing water. Pool areas are often hubs of social interaction, and it can be difficult to compete against noisy water features when holding a conversation, which means more often than not, you may have your water feature turned off. Another thing to know is that water features which constantly circulate water into your pool can cool the temperature down. Keep this in mind if you have a heated pool, as a water feature may mean you have to run your heater for longer, consuming more electricity bills. If you are thinking of building a water feature, contact your local pool builder for more advice.

: 7.15m Vogue in colour Evolution with sunpod and water feature. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

5.8m X-Trainer in colour Blue Granite with water feature. Pool installed by Capital Country Pools

10.2m Vogue in colour Quartz with water feature. Pool Installed by Azure Pools

10.2m X-Trainer in colour Pacific with beach and water feature. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Sunpods: Perfect for Kids in the Pool Area

Sunpods are a really popular pool customisation option that are a great way to change the look and feel of your pool without having to change the shell shape. Typically, sunpods are added to the area surrounding your pool as a shallow tiled section, and they include central bubbler jets to create a quiet water feature and wet play area. Sunpods tend to be a crowd pleaser, and a fan favourite amongst kids as they are highly interactive and fun. Unlike typical water features, these types of pool customisations are really quiet, and so you will most likely leave these on when you have social gatherings. As sunpods are tiled areas they can be personalised into whatever colour and design pattern you choose, making them a great addition to any backyard pool space.

7m Sanctuary pool in Viridian with sunpod. Installed by SJ’s Pools & Spas

10.2m Vogue in colour Pearl with sunpod. Installed by Central Pools

Lighting: A subtle yet effective pool customisation

Lighting can be a great way to add a personal touch to your pool design. Great pool lighting does not require the pool shell to be altered, and thus makes it a quick and affordable design install option. Custom pool lighting can be added to both the pool and the surrounding pool area. These days there are many different lighting systems to suit most design dreams and budgets, including options that can change colour from an app on your smart phone. Multi coloured LED lights are one of the most popular pool custom options that new pool buyers go for. This simple addition means you can have a different coloured pool almost every night of the year. Great pool lighting at night can bring your pool to life and make your swimming pool the centrepiece of your backyard when entertaining family and friends.

10.2m Vogue in colour Evolution with pool lighting and glow stones in pool paving. Pool installed by Smart Self Cleaning Pools

11.8m X-Trainer in colour Evolution with sunpod and lighting. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Beaches and Benches: Customise the shape & design of your pool with beaches and benches

By adding a beach or bench to your pool, you can completely change the look, feel and function of your backyard swimming area. Both options are a crowd favourite with children and adults alike due to the shallow water space they provide for lounging, relaxing or playing. Traditionally adding beaches or benches to a moulded fibreglass pool would require developing a completely new mould or shape. However, these days, Compass fibreglass pools can be customised within our factory to place beach zones and benches in various selected areas of any of our standard pool shapes and sizes. We do this by creating a rebate in one of the walls of your pool shell and connecting it to a customised fibreglass beach or bench that is created to suit your design requirements. Essentially, we take a section out of the wall of the pool shell and connect it with a fibreglass ‘mini pool’ or beach zone that has three walls. Beach zones are highly popular as they create a shallow play area for children to enjoy and adults to relax in outside of the main swimming area. Beaches and benches are slightly more expensive than other pool customisations due to the cost of altering the pool shell during the manufacturing process. For many this extra cost is worth it to achieve such a high end and beautiful look. When choosing a beach or bench you are investing in not only your pool, but the overall enjoyment of your pool area.

: 10.2m X-Trainer with Beach Zone in colour Sapphire. Pool installed by Central Pools

9.5m Contemporary with grand entry bench in Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Sydney

Beaches and benches can also be customised to include pool sun chairs. 2.8m plunge/ concrete hybrid pool in the colour Vercoe installed by Bostock Pools

9.4m X-Trainer with Beach Zone in colour Atlantic. Pool installed by Swan Hill Pool & Spa Centre

Pool and Spa Combos: Create an outdoor area that’s uniquely you!

Pool and spa combos are another great way to enhance the look and function of your pool area. Adding a Compass spa alongside any Compass pool in any configuration you choose, allows you to create a backyard space that is uniquely you. Compass pools and spas can be placed separately within the pool area or connected to create a seamless ‘flow on’ look between the pool and spa. Adding a matching spa to your Compass pool opens up a world of design opportunities and allows you to get the best of both pool and spa worlds.

7m Sanctuary with X-Trainer Spa in Pacific. Pool installed by Wimmera Spas & Pools

5m Plunge with X-Trainer Spa in the colour Viridian. Pool installed by Gordon Ave Pools & Spas

8.2m Vogue Narrow with 2.5m beach in Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

: 6.2m Plunge with X-Trainer Spa in colour Viridian. Pool Installed by BG’s Pools & Spas

Infinity or Vanishing Edges: A spectacular out of ground pool customisation option

Infinity or vanishing edges are a fantastic way to showcase your out of ground pool against the backdrop of your surrounding landscape. Vanishing edges are created by removing one edge of your pool shell, allowing water to ‘overflow’ over the side and into a ‘hidden’ catchment tank below. One important thing to consider before purchasing a vanishing or infinity edged pool, is the initial and ongoing cost of running and install. One of the ongoing costs is the expense of continuously running water pumps to return the water from the catchment tank, back into your pool. Another expense is that if your infinity edged pool is heated, it will cost more to keep warm due to the constant return of cold water from the catchment tank into the main pool area. If you live in a hot or drought prone area, it is important to note that infinity edge pools are also prone to high levels of water evaporation due to the constant flow of water over the edge. This means that infinity edged pools may need to have their water topped up more frequently than traditional pools and if you live under water restrictions, you may exceed the level of water you are allowed to use for your pool. The final product of an infinity edge pool is spectacular, however the expenses of running these kinds of pools can be high. To overcome this Compass Pools has invented the acrylic edge fibreglass pool as an alternative, giving you the same high-quality look at a more affordable cost.

Acrylic Edges: Perfect for that high end look without the high-end price

Acrylic edge fibreglass pools are a fantastic option if you want to have the same high-quality look of a vanishing or infinity edged pool, but without the same ongoing hassle and running costs. An acrylic edge pool is designed to look as though one of the edges is non-existent or invisible by using an acrylic see through window along one edge of the pool. This mimics the effect of a vanishing or infinity pool as it looks as though there is no edge, creating a stunning visual flow from your pool area to your surrounding landscape. The beauty of an acrylic edge pool is that there is no catchment tank, so no ongoing costs of extra water or heat pumps, and no increased water evaporation- only the beautiful effect of a visually seamless pool. Contact your local Compass Pool Dealer to find out more today.

8m custom Fastlane in colour Quartz with acrylic panel. Pool installed by Compass Pools Melbourne

7.2m X-Trainer with Acrylic Panel in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Sydney

10.2m Vogue with custom 8.6m Acrylic Panel in Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Mix and Match: Enhance your backyard pool area through a combination of pool customisation options

With a Compass pool, you can combine almost any of these pool customisation options together- so why not mix and match? Your local pool builder is a professional at bringing visions to life, so contact them today to start planning your dream backyard pool area!

11.8m X-Trainer with X-Trainer Spa & Wader in the colour Pearl. Installed by Compass Pools Melbourne

10.2m X-Trainer in the colour Evolution with sunken sunpod and X-Trainer Spa. Pool installed by Aquastyle Pools

10m Fastlane with wader, beach bench and acrylic edge in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Compass Pools Melbourne.

The post Popular Pool Customisation Options for your Fibreglass Pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

A brief overview of our Compass Pools & McGrath Partnership

Since 2016 we have proudly partnered with the McGrath Foundation as a way of giving back to the communities that have supported us for over 40 years. As a family business we wanted to make a difference and give back via a charity that focuses on helping families when they need it the most. The McGrath Foundation raises money to place specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses across the nation, and are free for anyone diagnosed with breast cancer to access. With 55 people in Australia diagnosed with breast cancer every day, we all know somebody who has been affected. Whether it’s a mum, grandma, aunty, sister, partner or friend, the McGrath foundation is there to always ensure families have support when they need it the most.

Annually we pledge to donate over $150,000 to the McGrath Foundation. This commitment allows us to fully fund our very own McGrath Breast Care Nurse named Samantha Burns. We want to say a massive thank you to our customers, dealer network and our team for helping us give back to the community. We would not be able to sponsor Sam if it wasn’t for you all, and so from the bottom of our hearts- thank you!

Watch Tracy Bevan of the McGrath Foundation thank Compass Pools Australia for their ongoing support:

Pink Compass Pool shell to show our proud support of the McGrath Foundation

That’s why our pools are pink!

To show our support of the McGrath Foundation, we paint our Compass pool shells pink! We hope that when you see a pink Compass Pool coming down your street, you stop and think about the McGrath Foundation and remember to take your breast health into your own hands by checking yourself today. If you see a pink Compass Pool driving along, or if you have one in your backyard oasis, don’t forget to snap a photo and upload it to social media with the hashtag #PinkCompassPool. Your photo can help us spread the McGrath Breast Cancer Awareness message and help the Foundation ensure that no Australian ever has to battle breast cancer alone.

What does it mean to Compass Pools Australia to Fund a McGrath Breast Care Nurse?

To be able to fully fund a McGrath Breast Care Nurse fills us all with an immense amount of pride as we know how much of a difference their work makes in the community. For over 40 years we have been in the business of building backyard dreams and by being able to fund Samantha Burns, we can help give back and support Australian families when they need it the most. Most other McGrath corporate partners are big corporations, and as a family-owned business we feel pride in taking responsibility and stepping up to do our bit to give back to the community. By committing to fully funding a McGrath Breast Care Nurse, we can help the Foundation achieve their goal of ensuring no one in Australia ever has to go through breast cancer alone. Our McGrath partnership also allows our staff to come to work every day and feel as though they are a part of something much bigger. If you would like to help us give back to our communities through the McGrath Foundation, we encourage you to check out our ‘Ways to give to the McGrath Foundation’ news story on our website. Or head to the McGrath donation website for further details.

Effie stands with her Pink Compass Pool as it arrives at her home.

Compass Pool customer Effie and her pink Compass Pool:

The most important aspect of our McGrath partnership is being able to give back to our customers by assisting a Foundation that cares just as much about family as we do. Authorised Compass Pools dealer, Local Pools & Spas, recently created a backyard oasis for Effie who is currently fighting breast cancer. Effie and her partner Paul share part of their experience below.

“Thank you so much Local Pools & Compass for making our pool & spa dream a reality! To be fighting breast cancer during breast cancer awareness month (and within a pandemic) has been surreal and a challenging time. For this reason, we decided to build our own home resort. To know part of our ‘Pink Pool’ supports the McGrath Foundation for breast cancer who have helped me greatly in the past 12 months of my breast cancer journey is ever so special.” – Effie and Paul

Compass Pools Australia would like to say a massive thank you to the McGrath Foundation for doing what they do every day and going out and helping thousands of Australian families, like Effie and Paul’s every year! Thank you, and we are very proud to be your partner.

Meet Samantha Burns, our Compass Pools funded McGrath Breast Care Nurse

Our fully funded Compass Pools McGrath Breast Care Nurse named Sam operates out of the Bankstown, Southwestern Sydney area. As a McGrath breast care nurse, Sam plays a pivotal role in helping families navigate a confusing health care system while making sure that someone is by their side throughout every step of their breast cancer treatment.

McGrath Nurses, such as Sam are highly trained and experienced in providing tailored care and support for each of their patients and their families. This assistance can be physical such as providing dressing care after surgery or by helping patients with their bras or prosthetic fittings post amputation. Sam also provides emotional assistance by translating complex medical jargon, or simply by being there when a patient wakes up post-surgery. As a McGrath Nurse, Sam works closely with breast and plastic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation teams, psychologists and social workers to ensure that all her patients’ needs are met. Her role also provides support to partners, children and family members of her patients. This can include helping them to understand the process of breast cancer treatment and being there for them during an often scary and confusing time.

Our McGrath Breast Care Nurse Sam is also passionate about providing breast cancer awareness education both to her fellow colleagues, her patients, the public and to herself. As part of her quest to have the most up to date information, Sam is a key member of breast cancer research teams- such as her recent participation in the team developing new cancer treatments for patients with diabetes. By staying up to date with the latest breast cancer information, Sam can provide the most current evidence-based practice and care to all her patients. Compass Pools Australia is very proud to sponsor Sam as our McGrath Breast Care Nurse and we proudly support all the hard work she does with McGrath.

Watch Sam thank Compass Pools for supporting her as a McGrath Breast Care Nurse:

How has COVID-19 Impacted Sam?

Like most of us, COVID-19 has impacted the way Sam works as a McGrath Breast Care Nurse. Due to the restrictions placed upon hospitals to remain COVID safe, Sam has had to treat her patients in full personal protective equipment (PPE), including wearing gowns, facemasks, face shields, gloves etc. This can often be quite confronting for her patients, especially as they were unable to have loved ones in treatment rooms due to the COVID-19 capacity requirements. As a nurse for the Bankstown Southwestern Sydney area, Sam’s health district covers almost 1 million people, with over half the districts population having a language other than English as their native tongue. This means that many breast cancer patients that Sam worked with during the pandemic often felt a sense of heightened anxiety due to the confusion caused from COVID-19 restrictions.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom! Due to the isolating nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sam and NSW health have quickly adapted to utilising technology more within their daily practice. Services such as telehealth or virtual doctor appointments have meant some patients don’t even have to leave their home to access the treatment they need. COVID-19 has meant that many changes had to occur in order to keep us all safe, including the way McGrath Breast Care Nurses such as Sam work. If you would like to help fund the important work McGrath do, then check out the McGrath donation page.

Check yourself today

According to the McGrath Foundation, due to stay at home measures from COVID-19, breast cancer diagnosis is down 37% in Australia in 2021 alone. This means that around 20 people per day are currently missing out on early breast cancer detection. Early detection is crucial, and the power is in your hands… literally! Take control of what you can during these strange times and look after your breast health today. The McGrath Foundation has released a campaign called ‘Look, Feel Learn’ encouraging people who ‘grow them, to know them!’. Discover how to check your breast health today by looking at the McGrath page here.

Other ways Compass Pools is helping the McGrath Foundation

Pool Give away at the Pink Test in Sydney

In January 2019, Compass Pools Australia gave away a pool at the Pink Test in Sydney. To enter the giveaway people had to purchase a ticket, and all the money raised went to the McGrath Foundation.

Pink Pool Party

In early 2020 Compass Pools encouraged all our customers to host a McGrath pink pool party to raise both funds and awareness for the McGrath Foundation. Even though this event was cut short due to the outbreak of COVID-19, we would like to thank everyone who hosted a party or was in the planning stages. We can’t wait to host another Pink Pool Party with you soon- fingers crossed for 2022!

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2021

In October 2021, Compass Pools Australia celebrated Breast Cancer Awareness month by hosting a virtual Ladies Lunch with some of our female staff and dealers. Tracy Bevan, Diana Johnson and Samantha Burns of the McGrath Foundation joined us as we discussed all things breast health and McGrath. The aim of this lunch was to encourage all our female staff to take control of their breast health and check themselves today. It was a big success!

Compass Pools Australia head office and factory jellybean competition

As part of breast cancer awareness month 2021, we created a jellybean competition and encouraged all our office staff and our factory workers to donate a gold coin and have a guess to help us raise funds for the McGrath Foundation. In total we raised $67! Thank you to all our staff who helped us make a difference through the McGrath Foundation.

Ways to give back to the McGrath Foundation

It costs roughly $140,000 to fund a single McGrath Breast Care Nurse every year in Australia. If you would like to help McGrath help Australian families going through breast cancer, then there are numerous ways you can help:

• Individual Donations: Every little bit helps, and each donation helps the McGrath Foundation provide free support to patients and their families experiencing breast cancer
• Monthly Donations: Monthly donations help reassure patients with breast cancer that the Breast Care Nurses’ services will continue well into the future. You can set the donation amount, and every donation is welcome
• Will: You can write the McGrath Foundation in your will and leave a generous gift after you pass. This lasting gift will support more nurses
• Celebration – Celebrating someone you know and their triumphant fight with breast cancer is an excellent way to show them you care while raising funds for the Foundation.
• In Memory – Leave a lasting legacy for someone lost to breast cancer by donating funding in their name and honour.
• Shop Pink – Shop pink with the Foundation’s Pink Partner Products any time of the year. Purchase proceeds go back into the program to support the nurses.
• Volunteer – You can join a host of community volunteers that work at the Pink Test event in January or other events the McGrath Foundation hosts throughout the year.

The post Compass Pools Australia’s Proud Partnership with the McGrath Foundation appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Compass Pools Australia has announced their 2021 Compass Pools Dealer Award Winners! The winners were announced at our virtual awards ceremony by our Compass Pools CEO, Anthony Cross and team member Steve Vimpani. This years’ standard of entry went above and beyond expectations, and we would like to say a massive congratulations to all our 2021 award winners and nominees!

Winners of the ‘Excellence in Pool Design’ Award:

Ultimate Pools

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools Ltd

BG’s Pools & Spas

6.2m Plunge in colour Viridian. Pool installed by BG’s Pools & Spas

North West Pools

16.6m Custom Contemporary in colour Evolution. Pool Installed by North West Pools

Compass Pools Newcastle

11.8m X-Trainer in colour Evolution with Sunpod. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Compass Pools Melbourne

11.8m X-Trainer with Spa and wader in colour Pearl. Installed by Compass Pools Melbourne

Aquastyle Pools

10.2m X-Trainer with X-Trainer Spa in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Aquastyle Pools

Compass Pools Sydney

Central Pools

7.15m X-Trainer Slimline in colour Viridian. Pool installed by Central Pools

Winner of the ‘Most Outstanding Media Presence’ Award:

Compass Pools Newcastle

5m Plunge Pool in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Newcastle

Winner of the ‘Most Outstanding Pool Innovation- Design and Installation’ Award:

Adam Martin

Adam Martin of Compass Pools Melbourne

Winner of the ‘Most Innovative and Adaptive Dealer’ Award:

Compass Pools Melbourne

10.2m X-Trainer with Spa in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Compass Pools Melbourne

Winner of the ‘Trailblazers Award- Women in the Pool Industry’:

Jan Cazemier

Jan Cazemier who co-ordinates the NZ Compass Pools Dealers

Winner of the ‘Compass Values Award’:

Russell Fagan

Russell Fagan of Compass Pools Sydney

Winner of the ‘Barry Vercoe- Excellence in Customer Service Award’:

Luke Geering

Luke Geering of Smart Self-Cleaning Pools

Winners of the ‘Compass Pool Builder of the Year’:

Local Pools & Spas

10.2m X-Trainer in colour Pacific. Installed by Local Pools & Spas

Azure Pools

10.2m Vogue in colour Sapphire. Pool installed by Azure Pools

Get your own Compass Pool

Fell in love with these amazing fibreglass pool installations by our authorised dealers? Have these pool projects made you start thinking of your own swimming pool? If so, it’s super easy to get you started. Use our postcode finder to look up your closest Compass Pool dealer and get in touch with them today for a free consultation and/or a quote.

FIND YOUR NEAREST COMPASS POOL DEALER

The post 2021 Compass Pools Dealer Award Winners Announced appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Winner ‘Fibreglass Pool over $60,000’:

9.4m X-Trainer in Evolution

Literally living on a ridge line, our clients wished to extend the living and entertaining areas of their home to make their hilltop paradise functional and beautiful without obscuring any views from the home.

The challenge was working on an extremely sloped section with only narrow access way past the existing dwelling on the narrow ridge line.

Pool equipment needed to be hidden from eyesight to keep the natural flow of the view from the house without being obscured.

The photos probably speak for themselves in this instance! The pool and surrounds are an amazing feat of engineering and enhance the rugged landscape while making an absolutely breathtaking entertainment area from the rugged ridge line.

Winner ‘Pool of the Year and Fibreglass Lap Pool’:

20m Fastlane in Evolution

The customer, who is a university professor, was looking for a place for exercise and solitude on his remote farmhouse in Waitoki. There were a couple of options for placement of the pool but with soil and slope stability taken into consideration we found the best spot which would also take advantage of the aspect of the sun.

This was an amazing feat of engineering as the pool was delivered to site – all the way from Newcastle, Australia- in two fibreglass pieces which had to be joined together on site and lifted into the excavated hole in one piece.

As the pool is Vantage self-cleaning, special consideration had to be given to the hydraulic system to ensure that it would clean efficiently in such a large swimming pool.

Our design brief was to provide the client with a lap pool for exercise with close proximity to his home and to maximise the use of a large flat area.

The second part of the brief was to make the pool super easy to care for, which we did with a salt chlorinator, automatic dosing, and the vantage self-cleaning system.

Our design brief for this client was to transform his remote property into a sanctuary for exercise and time out. This amazing 20m long lap pool provides the perfect opportunity to swim year-round for health and wellbeing. The beautiful Evolution colour finish accentuates the surrounding property, while the Vantage self-cleaning system and automation means the pool is immaculate and ready for its owners to enjoy whenever they seek time out from life’s demands. 

Highly Commended for “Prefabricated Composite Pool over $30k’:

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Quartz

This fun-loving young family were working with an area which required extensive retaining to put a pool in. They had been stung with a quote of over $150,000 from another pool company, so were thrilled to learn that we could use our prefabricated composite constructed pools to save thousands in costs. There were limited options in terms of pool placement on the property due to the house being on a valley line with extreme slopes.

This site required major engineering to create a retained base on which to support the pool shell when it was delivered to site. Only a pool such as our freestanding composite pool would work. The pool was craned on to site.

An engineered retaining wall was used to form a base for the pool to be installed on. The pool itself was tailor made specific to the site in Newcastle, Australia before being shipped to NZ. This included Maxi Ribs purpose designed for the site measurements. The pool itself was craned into place over the house.

The family requested a big outdoor entertainment area with space to watch their young children play in the pool. The colour was chosen to work in with the natural environment and landscaping. The pool area works as a perfect extension of the house which has a modern theme and amazing outlook over the valley.

This swimming pool was designed for a fun-loving young family who were looking for an extension of their home and entertainment area with fabulous views across the Muriwai Valley. Making the most of a steeply sloped section, this self-cleaning Compass X-Trainer pool in the popular Quartz colour is the perfect addition to the designer home. The Van Der Walle family could not speak highly enough of their experience with Ultimate Pools and are thrilled with the final result.

Q. Wow, those pools are phenomenal! Were there any funny stories or highlights from the awards night that you feel our readers might be interested in learning about?

Rainbow:

A highlight from the night was definitely the presentation of the award for industry service for business owner Warren Wright. Along with the other owner of Ultimate Pools, Steve Westlake. They were both incredibly proud and humbled by the volume of awards bestowed on our team.

At the end of the awards ceremony, Warren asked for a moment to speak, and took to the floor to deliver a breathtaking message and to thank his people and the industry in the NZ native tongue, Maori. ‘He tangata, he tangata, he tangata’ – it is the people, the people, the people.’ he said.  As he struggled to get the words out, it was clear he was overcome with emotion. There was not a dry eye in the house.

Photos of the Ultimate team at the SPASA NZ awards night:

https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8xNTg4MzAwLnJzcw/episode/QnV6enNwcm91dC04OTYzODQz?sa=X&ved=0CAQQkfYCahcKEwiI59KpiN_yAhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQCg&hl=en-NZ

 

Q. Thank you for taking time to speak with us! Is there anything else you feel we should share with our readers about your SPASA winning pools or your experience on winning a SPASA award?

Rainbow:

We think this is a great opportunity to really show our customers and the industry how passionate we are about what we do. We are great believers in being at the forefront of development in the industry and being leaders in our field. One example of this is recently being announced as the first Climate Care certified Pool Builder in NZ. We would wholeheartedly encourage other pool builders to join associations such as SPASA who advocate professionalism in our industry and help us to demonstrate this to the community.

The post Spotlight: Ultimate Pools tell us a little about their BIG 2021 SPASA NZ wins! appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

SPASA Australia National Awards 2021:

• GOLD Award of ‘In-ground Fibreglass Spa’: Local Pools & Spas

6.2m Plunge with X-Trainer Spa in colour Pearl. Installed by Local Pools & Spas

SPASA Awards of Excellence NSW Award Winners 2021:

• GOLD Award of “NSW In-ground Fibreglass Spa’: Local Pools & Spas
• GOLD Award of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool up to $40,000’: Local Pools & Spas

8.2m X-Trainer Slimline in colour Ice Blue. Installed by Local Pools and Spas

• GOLD Award of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool up to $60,000’: Local Pools & Spas

10.2m X-Trainer in colour Pacific. Installed by Local Pools & Spas

• GOLD Award of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool over $60,000’: Compass Pools Sydney

7.2m X-Trainer with acrylic panel in Quartz. Installed by Compass Pools Sydney

• Highly Commended of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool over $60,000’: Compass Pools Sydney
• Highly Commended of ‘NSW Display Pool or Centre’: Local Pools & Spas
• Highly Commended of ‘NSW Fibreglass Pool & Spa Combination’: Compass Pools Sydney

SPASA New Zealand National Awards of Excellence 2021

• Acknowledgement of Industry Service – Warren Wright (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Pool Landscape Design’: Pools for Canterbury

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Quartz. Pool installed by Pools for Canterbury.

• GOLD Award for ‘Construction Tradesperson of the Year’: Steve Westlake (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Enclosed or Indoor pool’: Ultimate Pools
• GOLD Award for ‘Operational Excellence’: Chelsea Perkins (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD for ‘Fibreglass Lap Pool’: Ultimate Pools

20m Fastlane in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools

• GOLD Award for ‘Fibreglass Pool over $60,000’: Ultimate Pools

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools

• • GOLD Award for ‘Display Pool or Centre’: Pools for Canterbury

10.2m X-Trainer in colour Pacific. Pool installed by Pools for Canterbury

• GOLD Award for ‘Pool Sales Representative’: Jeremy Greco (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Pool & Spa Barrier Inspector’: Rainbow Morris (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Pool Designer’: Rainbow Morris (Ultimate Pools)
• GOLD Award for ‘Best Fibreglass Pool Builder’: Ultimate Pools

7.2m X-Trainer in colour Sapphire. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools

• • GOLD award for ‘Business of the Year’: Ultimate Pools
  • GOLD Award for ‘Pool of the Year’: Ultimate Pools

20m Fastlane in colour Evolution. Pool installed by Ultimate Pools.

• Highly Commended Award for fibreglass pool over $60,000: Pools for Canterbury
• Highly Commended Award for Poolside North Shore in Best Single Location Pool Store: Ultimate Pools
• Highly Commended Award for Fibreglass Pool up to $60,000: Ultimate Pools
• Highly Commended Award for In-field Service Technician: Trevor Newton (Ultimate Pools)
• Highly Commended Award for Prefabricated Composite Pool over $30,000: Ultimate Pools

9.4m X-Trainer in colour Quartz. Installed by Ultimate Pools.

The post Compass Pools Dealers win SPASA Australia and NZ Awards 2021! appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

The post Compass Pools Australia’s R U OK? Day appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

X-Trainer 7.2 Maxi Rib self-cleaning pool Quartz colour, Inverloch VIC

Above ground, Compass Pools Melbourne, Quartz, Sunpod, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 7.2By CPAAugust 25, 2020

X-Trainer 7.2m long Maxi Rib pool built partially above the ground in Inverloch, Victoria by Compass Pools Melbourne.

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Sanctuary 9.4 Self-cleaning pool Quartz colour, Ferntree Gully VIC

Quartz, Above ground, Compass Pools Melbourne, Glass wall, Sanctuary, Sanctuary 9.4By CPAAugust 25, 2020

A self-cleaning Sanctuary 9.4m long fibreglass pool installed partially above the ground in Ferntree Gully, Victoria.

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Plunge 5.0 Self-cleaning saltwater pool Richmond VIC

Above ground, Compass Pools Melbourne, Glass wall, Grey Marble, Plunge & Courtyard, Plunge 5.0By CPAMay 22, 2020Leave a comment

This free-standing fibreglass self-cleaning plunge pool with port holes completely transformed the inner city Richmond courtyard.

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X-Trainer 10.2 Self-cleaning pool Beach colour, Trafalgar VIC

Above ground, Beach, Compass Pools Melbourne, Glass wall, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 10.2By CPAMay 22, 2020Leave a comment

X-Trainer 10.2 m long fibreglass pool with a glass edge installed on a sloping site in the country by Compass Pools Melbourne.

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X-Trainer 7.15 SL Self-cleaning pool Atlantic colour, Aberfeldie VIC

Above ground, Atlantic, Compass Pools Melbourne, Dealer, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 7.15 SLBy CPAMay 8, 2020Leave a comment

X-Trainer 7.15 SL (slim) fibreglass self-cleaning pool in Atlantic colour built on a sloping site for Louise’s family in Aberfeldie, Victoria.

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X-Trainer 8.2 Self-cleaning pool Pearl colour, Geelong VIC

Inground, Pearl, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 8.2By CPAMay 8, 2020Leave a comment

X-Trainer 8.2 m fibreglass self-cleaning pool in the Pearl Bi-luminite colour built by Gordon Ave Pools & Spas for Dean’s family in Geelong.

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X-Trainer 7.2 Self-cleaning pool Quartz colour, Geelong VIC

Inground, Quartz, Water wall, X-Trainer, X-Trainer 7.2By CPAMay 8, 2020Leave a comment

A self-cleaning X-Trainer 7.2 m long fibreglass pool built inground for Ebony’s family in Geelong, Victoria by Gordon Ave Pools & Spas.

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Vogue 8.2 Self-cleaning pool Royal Blue colour, Melbourne VIC

Deck jets, Inground, Royal Blue, Vogue, Vogue 8.2By CPAMay 8, 2020Leave a comment

Vogue 8.2 fibreglass self-cleaning pool in Royal Blue colour built before the house was finished in Melbourne, Victoria.

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Fastlane 10.3 Self-cleaning lap pool with spa and beach, Mornington Peninsula VIC

Above ground, Beach, Evolution, Fastlane, Fastlane 10.3, Glass wall, Melbourne, Mornignton Peninsula, Pool & spa comboBy CPAApril 4, 2020

Awarded Fastlane 10.3 m long fibreglass lap pool & spa combo with a beach add-on built on a sloping site on the Mornington Peninsula.

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Vogue 9.4 Self-cleaning pool with Sunpod, Doreen VIC

Inground, Quartz, Sunpod, Vogue, Vogue 9.4By CPAApril 4, 2020Leave a comment

Fabulous self-cleaning Vogue 9.4 fibreglass pool from Compass Pools Australia installed inground for Nicole’s family in Doreen, Victoria.

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Researching staycation ideas? Happy Compass self-cleaning pool owners will tell you that having a pool installed was one of the est decision they’ve made.

Browse more pool projects

Looking at staycation ideas? What about having one of these Compass Pools in your backyard?

Browse the gallery by pool shape

The post Looking for Staycation ideas? Consider a Swimming Pool! appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

What are other reasons why portable swimming pools are so popular, and what are their drawbacks? What options for portable swimming pools do you have available in your area?

We’ll go over everything you need to know about a portable plunge pool, and you can decide whether or not you want to purchase one for your own backyard.

Defining a Portable Pool

Portable pools use prefabricated shells that are quick and easy to install in your yard. When you look at portable pools for sale, you’ll notice that they come in a large array of shapes and colours. This allows you to tailor your purchase to your yard size and shape with minimal difficulty. Portable pools also eliminate the need for time-consuming and expensive construction. And, you won’t have to worry about having a lot of additional space in your yard for the company to install them.

All of this means that you can buy your new portable swimming pool relatively cheap, no matter what your budget may be. Portable pools are very popular with small families, couples and single people who want a swimming pool but don’t want to spend thousands to get one.

Choosing a Portable Pool Type

One of the first things you want to look for when you look at portable pools for sale is the type. There are five main types you can consider, and picking the correct one for your needs and space will help you get the most out of it. We outlined them for you below.

1. Portable Plunge Pool

A portable plunge pool is much shorter and narrower than a traditional pool, but it is deeper. It can have a fibreglass body, which is very durable. Fibreglass is also resistant to bacteria and algae, reducing your cleaning time. Fibreglass comes built to last your lifetime with minimal maintenance, so it is on the high end of portable pool prices. The larger upfront cost pays for itself over time, though.

2. Shipping Container Pool

A shipping container pool is an extremely popular option throughout Australia because you can put it in a broad range of spaces. It has a shipping container exterior with a fibreglass pool insert. This type of portable pools features a narrow design that is great for swimming laps. And, all you need is a flat area such as a concrete slab to sit it on. You plug it in, fill it up and it’s ready to use.

3. Little Pools

Next up is Little Pools. These portable pools come in two shapes, and they fit perfectly in a lot of backyards that don’t have a lot of space. At Compass Pools, we work in conjuncture with them, and we’re one of Australia’s leading fibreglass pool manufacturers. This means you get the latest technology and techniques in each pool design. You’ll also get the benefit of having the durability and strength of a traditional fibreglass pool without breaking your budget.

4. Vinyl-Lined Pool

Another type of portable pools for sale features is a vinyl liner. It is one of the cheapest options available for portable swimming pools. You’ll get a metal frame to support the pool itself and make it stable. There is a resin base that you line with your vinyl liner before you fill the pool for use. You can choose from different designs, shapes and sizes. However, you will have to replace the vinyl liner every five to seven years because it’ll break down over time.

5. Plastic Pool

Arguably the cheapest choice on the list, a plastic pool is something many people consider because it’s quick and convenient. These pools come in sizes and shapes that allow both adults and children to enjoy them. They’re very prone to damage, though. It’s easy to poke a hole in the side or the bottom that you will then have to patch. The upside is they’re easy to break down and take with you.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Portable Swimming Pools

Now that you know the types of portable swimming pools available, we’ll break down some of the biggest benefits and drawbacks of owning one. This way, you can decide if the benefits outweigh the risks and whether or not these are good pools for your family to use.

Four Benefits of Setting up a Portable Pool

First up is the benefits. There are several reasons why portable pools are so popular. These include:

Benefit One – Portability

The most obvious advantage of these pools is their portability factor. If you move, you can easily pack up your pool and move it with you. This is a stark difference from an inground pool where you’d have no choice but to leave it behind. It’s easy to take your portable plunge pool with you, particularly if you choose to buy a Little Pool or a shipping container pool. You can load it up on a flatbed truck, move it to your new home, unload it, set it up and enjoy it with minimal fuss. 

Benefit Two – Quick Installation

The second benefit of owning a portable pool is the quick installation process. Unlike a traditional pool where you have to have a company come out, survey your yard and excavate it to fit the pool, a portable pool requires none of this. The company delivers the shell straight to your home and set it wherever you want, as long as it’s a flat piece of land. This is a very cost-effective way to go about getting a pool, and it’ll be ready to enjoy as soon as you hook it up to electricity and fill it. 

Benefit Three – Cost-Effective

With a traditional pool, you can easily expect to spend upwards of $50,000 to install it. Above-ground pools are cheaper than inground options, but they’re still very expensive. You have to pay for the pool itself and any excavation. If you choose a concrete pool, the costs go up to over $75,000 by the time you have your pool in. If your yard has difficult access, this adds more expenses. Portable pools are very cost-effective in this case because they can fit into tighter access areas and don’t require excavation.

Benefit Four – Family-Friendly

Since these types of pools come in different sizes and shapes, they’re very family-friendly. For example, you can get a portable swimming pool that is shallower than a traditional pool, and this is nice if you have a younger child around. You can also customise your pool to suit your needs with a broad range of options, and you’ll still come under the amount you’d spend if you tried to customise a traditional pool.

Four Drawbacks of Setting up a Portable Pool

Unfortunately, setting up a portable pool has some drawbacks, which will depend largely on the type of pool you pick out. 

Drawback One – Maintenance Costs

While you may save money upfront when you buy this type of pool, you could end up paying more in the long run for general maintenance and repairs. For example, if you pick out a vinyl-sided pool, you’ll have to replace the vinyl siding within five to seven years.

Pool chemicals and sunlight exposure will break it down and cause it to weaken. A plastic pool is easy to poke holes in and damage. Fibreglass, however, is very resistant to damage, and it can last years without needing any repairs. 

Drawback Two – Cleaning Requirements

No matter which type of pool you get, you’ll have to clean it. Unfortunately, some are far more labour-intensive than others. You’ll have to have a filter system in place with the water circulating, and you have to ensure you get the right chemical balance to keep the water safe. This goes for any pool, although fibreglass pools are naturally resistant to bacteria or algae growth, and this means less cleaning overall. 

Drawback Three – Look

A lot of people think that inground pools simply look better than above-ground pools. Many portable pools can’t compete with the sleek look of a traditional pool, especially the fibreglass pools. Your staycation by the pool would simply feel different if you have a cheap portable pool installed. But, you can add different decking options around your pool to make them more attractive. You get the choice of different cladding for the pool’s exterior, and this can help fix the look of your portable pool. 

Drawback Four – Size and Shape Restraints

Depending on the type of pool you pick out, you could find that you have only a few size and shape options available. You can customise your pool further with extras, but you might not get the pool of your dreams. Additionally, portable pools are generally better for smaller families. And, if you have a big family, there may not be one big enough for them to enjoy at once.

Consider a Portable Pool from Little Pools

At Compass Pools, we have an impressive range of fibreglass pools available, however, none of them would really be considered portable. Even if they are built above the ground, they are designed to be landscaped around. As such, it is not easy to simply disconnect them, lift them off the ground, load onto a truck and move to your new home. However, Little Pools have a great choice of high-quality fibreglass pools that you can take with you when moving if you decide so. Their portable pools for sale can fit into a large budget range and because they are powered by Compass Pools knowledge and technologies, they take great pride in offering fantastic looking and durable portable fibreglass pools for Australian pool owners.

You can take a look at their website to find out more about the products on offer. And in case you realise that you would consider a permanent pool installation, we invite you to contact our professional and friendly team with any questions by dropping by your local Compass Pools dealership. They are ready to answer your questions and discuss your requirements and ideas with you!

The post Why a Portable Pool Could Be a Good Choice – Four Reasons appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

If you’re considering buying a cheap pool, this is for you. We’ll go over everything you need to know about buying the cheapest pools available, and we’ll give you several alternatives that you may want to consider. This way, you know you’re going to get the most bang for your buck with this large investment.

Factors that Influence Pool Costs

What factors determine whether a pool gets a cheap or high price? Are some factors more influential? There are several factors that go into deciding your pool’s final costs, and there’s a big difference between high-end pools and the cheapest pools. They include:

• Size – A larger pool is more expensive than a smaller pool. It costs more to manufacture, transport and install. The running costs are also higher with a larger pool because you’ll have to buy more chemicals to keep it safe.
• Design – A simple pool design like a rectangle with no frills is going to be much more cost-effective than an elaborate pool. If you add things like steps, jets and have more complicated features, you’ll pay for it in the pool’s final price.
• Inground or Above Ground – Above ground pools require you to have a level area like a concrete slab to put them on, and this equates to a more affordable pool. An in-ground pool means you have to dig out the yard to suit your pool. It’s more labour-intensive, so it’s going to cost more.
• Yard Access – When the company transports your pool to your home, they’ll have to get into your backyard to install the pool. If there are things in the way that the company has to work around, this will drive the cost up. The same goes for yards with odd shapes that the installation company has to accommodate to get your pool in place.
• Pool Material – Plastic pools are examples of extremely cheap pools, but they don’t last long. Other materials include fibreglass and concrete. While you can’t call fibreglass cheap, it is more affordable than a concrete pool. Both last longer than plastic, though.

Concrete isn’t the pool you want if you’re after a low-cost pool. This is the most expensive and labour-intensive pool out there, even when compared to fibreglass. The company has to build your concrete pool from scratch right at your home, making it a very long and expensive process. A prefabricated pool like a fibreglass one will only take a few days, and this timeline goes down if you want it above ground.

Your budget will dictate the pool you end up with. You may be able to afford a more durable option if you sacrifice some of the extra features you want, such as an infinity edge or water features.

Above Ground Pools vs Inground Pools

Now that you know which factors play the biggest role in whether a pool has a cheap price tag or an expensive one, we’ll go over your options for an in-ground pool and above ground pool. This will help you understand your options and tailor your purchase to your needs and wants.

Above Ground Pools

Above-ground pools give you several awesome options. The installation process does not involve excavation, reducing the costs. All you need for your above ground pool to sit on is a level area, as well as an electrical hookup close by. Many people use a concrete slab instead of trying to level the ground because the ground can settle over time and knock the pool askew.

If you have a sloped yard that you don’t want to or can’t level, Maxi Rib technology allows you to have a gorgeous infinity pool. With the help of this pioneering technology, you can have the pool you want, and you won’t have to spend so much on excavation.

Once you get it on your level area and hook it up, all you have to do is fill it up and it’s ready to go. This adds a convenience factor to this affordable pool. You have a choice of several different above ground pools, including vinyl-lined, fibreglass and inflatable. They come with features such as metal frames or reinforced vinyl or plastic shells.

Many of these above ground pools come as complete kits. Once the company delivers and positions them, they’re ready to fill and use. If you decide to buy the cheapest pools available, you’ll spend more on maintenance and repairs to keep your pool in working condition than you would if you go for a slightly more expensive above ground pool.

Vinyl-lined Pools 

Vinyl-lined pools have a straightforward setup process, and you can take them down and transport them if you move to another house. These types of affordable pools usually come with repair kits because they can get damaged. You can tear the lining, and then you have to patch it to make it waterproof again. Every five to seven years, you’ll have to replace the liner.

Cheap Inflatable Swimming Pools

Next are the cheapest pools of all, the inflatable pools. These are plastic pools that you blow up and fill with water. Since this is a very quick process, you can use it within hours. However, they’re not durable at all. They’re very easy to damage, and you can rip the walls or flooring if you’re not careful. They’re convenient, though – you can pack them up in the winter months or if you need to move them.

Fibreglass Pools 

When you get a fibreglass pool, you’re getting a fibreglass shell that will last a lifetime with proper care. Compass Pools offers Maxi Rib technology that supports the fibreglass shell. It fixes the pool to the ground or onto a concrete slab, and you can install it on sloping or uneven terrain. The company delivers the shell to you, so installation is relatively quick.

They do come pre-designed, so it’s not possible to customise them as much. However, there are several shapes, sizes and features you can pick from. Fibreglass pools also have bacteria and algae-resistant surfaces to make them more hygienic. You won’t use a lot of chemicals to clean them either, and you won’t have to resurface them. Although they definitely are not cheap pools, having a fibreglass pool installed is one of the best staycation ideas out there.

Inground Pools

Generally speaking, inground pools are always more expensive than the above ground pool. Whichever company installs your pool will have to excavate your backyard before they can install your pool, and this means creating the pool involves more work. These factors all cause the price to go up.

Another important factor that affects the cost of your inground pool is the size. Usually, a plunge pool is the cheapest pool because it’s much shorter and less wide than a traditional pool. However, they’re much deeper. This allows you to relax and enjoy your pool. But, it also means that the company has to perform more excavation work, so this may not be a feasible option for your budget.

There are three main inground pool types to choose from: vinyl-liner, fibreglass and concrete. We mentioned earlier that concrete pools are the most expensive and labour-intensive option available, so most people go for vinyl-liner or fibreglass. There is a huge selection of prefabricated designs available in several colours. They’re easier to install, and the company will deliver the pool straight to your yard and install it into the ground without having to build it up from square one.

This helps control the costs, but it can be expensive if you have a yard with a difficult access point or if your yard has an irregular shape. For a more affordable pool option, many people choose fibreglass instead of vinyl-lined. Fibreglass is more durable and stronger, and it can last a lifetime. It is also easy to clean, saving you time. Vinyl-lined pools, on the other hand, are prone to damage. You’ll have to replace the lining periodically as well.

Little Pools Are a Viable Option

If these options all sound like they may be out of your budget, try a Little Pool – it is on the more cost-effective end of the spectrum. Little Pools are 100% above ground pool, saving you on labour costs. You’ll need an electric connection and a concrete slab for your pool to sit on, and you’re ready to fill it and use it. You’ll get a complete kit when you order your Little Pool that features steps, lighting and a filtration system. If you have money left over, you can get some nice extras.

Little Pools use the latest technology to ensure you get the best build quality on the market. We are Australia’s leading manufacturer of in-ground, full-sized fibreglass pools. And, our partnership with Little Pools means that their products are as long-lasting and durable as traditional fibreglass pools, and they’ll require minimal maintenance to last for years.

This does cause the price to go up slightly. But, it can be worth it to pay more upfront because the pool will more than makeup for it with the low-maintenance design.

Check Compass Pools’ Durable and Lasting Fibreglass Pools

Anyone who wants a more durable pool and is willing to pay slightly more for it should take a look at the fibreglass pools available at Compass Pools. We have options available for a broad range of budgets, and we create the best fibreglass pools in Australia. Our pools use the highest-quality materials available combined with the newest technology on the market.

If you want to know more about our fibreglass pools, our blog has dozens of articles available. We have everything you need to get the most out of your new pool. Are you interested in learning more? If so, you should contact our team of dedicated pool experts at your local Compass Pools dealership. We’ll discuss your options and help you pick the best pool without breaking your budget.

The post Are Cheap Swimming Pools Worth It? appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

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

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.

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If you’re one of the many people who have wondered how to get a swimmer’s body, this article is here to help you. You might not achieve an Olympic gold medal – but you’ll definitely impress a few people on the beach!

What makes a swimmer body?

If you have looked at champion swimmers, you will have noticed that the male swimmer’s body and the female swimmer’s body have a lot of things in common:

1. They’re tall

Top male and female swimmers all tend to be tall. Many female swimmers are around 1.83 metres in height, with male swimmers usually even taller. A tall physique helps to improve swimming performance for a number of reasons:

• If you’re tall, it takes less strength and effort to move through the water, so you can keep swimming for longer without getting tired.
• A longer length of swimmer results in reduced wave drag, so the shape of a taller swimmer is more efficient in the pool.

2 They have long limbs

The classic swimmer body has long limbs and a long torso, usually with big hands and feet. Large hands on the ends of long arms act like oars, pushing the swimmer through the water more effectively. Large feet also help with propulsion because they work like fins.

3. They are toned without bulky muscles

The swimmer physique tends to be lean and toned. The muscles are defined without being too bulky. Certain muscles are noticeably more defined than others. These are:

• Shoulders. We all associate the swimmer’s body with broad shoulders. This is because the shoulder muscles are developed by swimming strokes, such as freestyle, butterfly or backstroke.
• Triceps. These are the muscles in the arms used to propel you through the water. All swimmers have clearly defined triceps because they are developed by repetitive arm movements in the pool.
• Latissimus dorsi. The lats are the large muscles located in the middle of the back. These are used in all swimming strokes, and they help to create the classic swimmer physique of a V-shaped upper body.
• Abdominals. All swimming strokes use the core muscles, so swimmers’ abs tend to be highly defined.
• Legs. Swimmers’ legs are powerful and toned without bulky muscle. Strong legs are needed for effective starts and turns, as well as better movement through the water, but too much muscle will increase drag, slowing you down.

Swimmers are also associated with low body fat. Swimming is a great cardio workout that burns a lot of calories and speeds up your metabolism. This cuts down body fat and gives the appearance of a slimmer waist, which is something we also associate with the classic swimmer body.

How to get a swimmer’s body

It’s true that some of what makes a champion swimmer is impossible to achieve through training. Height, limb length and the size of your hands and feet are all determined by genetics, so no amount of exercise will change them.

However, no matter your natural shape and size, there are still a number of things you can do to achieve the lean, toned appearance of a top swimmer. Here are our three top tips for achieving a swimmers body.

1. Swim regularly

This should really go without saying. Achieving a swimmer body takes a lot of hard work in the pool! The top swimmers are practising their sport for several hours each day, perfecting their techniques and keeping themselves in top physical condition.

This results in the clearly defined muscles we all associate with a classic swimmers physique.

If you want to put the hours in, it helps if you have a pool in your backyard. This means you can swim in the privacy and comfort of your own property whenever you want, instead of having to wait to go to a public pool. If you’re serious about swimming, a lap pool would be the best choice for you.

It offers a long, unimpeded corridor of water specifically designed for swimming laps. There is nothing in the design that can get in the way of your swimming, and it’s relatively easy to find a size of lap pool that can fit into the dimensions of your backyard.

This makes it ideal for improving your technique and lap times, as well as developing that all-important swimmer body! Last but not least, what can be better than staycationing by your new Compas lap pool?

2. Do the right exercises

Champion swimmers’ entire lives are dedicated to becoming the best they can possibly be at their sport. But this doesn’t mean they spend all day, every day, swimming. They also hit the gym, usually every day, to improve their body strength and overall levels of fitness.

Most swimmers do regular weightlifting, as well as a combination of other exercises. These include:

• Warmups. Nobody should ever get into a swimming pool without warming up their muscles. A good warmup routine should include stretches, push-ups and sit-ups to improve strength and flexibility, as well as to help prevent you from getting cramps once you get into the pool.
• Planks. Planks are great for strengthening your shoulders, arms and upper body, as well as developing your core strength. When you regularly do planks alongside your swimming routine, you will start to see those highly defined abs that the swimmer physique is famous for!
• Core exercises. A strong core is essential for swimming as it gives you strength and stability in the water. Exercises such as leg lifts and V-sits are ideal for strengthening your core muscles and helping you to achieve a swimmers body.

These are all exercises requiring no equipment – you can easily do them at home or at the poolside before you swim. However, gym equipment can also play an important part in achieving the perfect swimmer body. Exercises you can do at the gym include:

• Rowing. Using a rowing machine is a great way to develop a swimmer physique. It exercises all the muscles you rely on for swimming – the arms, abs, back and legs, resulting in more tone and definition, and giving the appearance of an authentic swimmer body!
• Crunch presses. Combining crunches with dumbbell presses is an ideal exercise for the shoulders, resulting in that broad swimmer look.
• Pulldowns. Pulldowns to the neck and chest exercise the lats, giving strength to your swimming performance and helping you to look more like a swimmer with that V-shaped upper body.

Combine all of these exercises with regular swimming, and you’re well on your way to a swimmer’s body!

3. Eat properly

Swimming is an exercise that burns a lot of calories. If you want to look like a pro swimmer, you have to give your body enough fuel to sustain your training regime. But it isn’t enough simply to eat to transform your body to swimmer’s body – you have to consume a nutritious, balanced diet that gives your body exactly the right types of sustenance.

This means balancing your diet into three core groups:

• Carbohydrates. These are the main sources of energy that the body gets from food, and they tend to make up around 50 per cent of a top swimmer’s diet. Carbohydrates are sugars, starches and fibres that the body breaks down into energy. It is important to eat good carbohydrates, which can be found in whole grains, fruit, vegetables, beans and pulses.
• Proteins. Proteins improve the functions of the body’s organs and tissues. They are also essential for building muscle mass, which you need if you are sticking to an intensive training regime and trying to achieve a swimmers body. Top swimmers get around 25 per cent of their nutrition from protein, which can be found in eggs, milk, fish, nuts and seeds.
• Fats. Healthy fats are good for heart health and help to lower your cholesterol. The healthy fats you should be looking for are monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. Avocado, olives, peanut butter, tofu and sunflower seeds are all excellent sources of healthy fats.

With so much healthy food to choose from, it isn’t hard to create a balanced eating plan that’s delicious at the same time. As such, you can look forward to mealtimes knowing that you are helping to give yourself a swimmer body!

Find out more about how to get a swimmer’s body

If you’re feeling inspired by this article and can’t wait to get started on your new eating and exercise plan, that’s great! Here at Compass Pools, we’re passionate about promoting the many benefits of swimming for your health and wellbeing. This includes achieving the perfect physique you have always dreamed of!

For more tips, advice and news, keep checking out our blog. Or, if you are trying to find the perfect pool for your backyard, please contact us. With dealers located all over Australia, our team are always happy to help you find the right pool for you.

The post 3 Effective Steps to a Swimmer’s Body: Exercises for Swimmers and Beyond appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Swimming is one of the best all-round forms of exercise you can do, and it’s hugely popular all over Australia. But many swimmers, while enjoying the water, aren’t particularly confident or secure in their swimming technique. This insecurity can dissuade them from getting in the pool often enough to improve their swimming, and it can sometimes take the enjoyment out of the experience altogether.

If this applies to you, don’t worry! We have put together this article to help you learn how to swim better and feel more confident in the pool.

Reasons to practise swimming

There are loads of good reasons to improve your swimming and do more swimming practice. Swimming has a huge range of benefits for your physical and mental health. People who swim regularly notice a huge boost to their energy levels, a better quality of sleep and an improved level of overall fitness. They also feel healthier, more positive and less stressed, demonstrating what an important activity swimming can be for increasing your sense of wellbeing.

Some of the specific health benefits of swimming include:

• Exercise: Swimming is one of the best all-round forms of exercise you can take as it uses almost every muscle in the body. It’s a great way to get a swimmer´s body. Good for increasing strength, toning up and maintaining a healthy weight. It’s also extremely beneficial for your cardiovascular health, protecting you against problems such as heart attacks, strokes and diabetes.
• Relaxation: Swimming is highly beneficial for improving both mental and physical wellbeing as it promotes relaxation and reduces stress. This helps to reduce your blood pressure and alleviates the symptoms of anxiety and depression, enabling you to manage the stresses of everyday life more effectively.
• Recovery from injuries: Swimming is good for muscular injuries as it is a low-impact sport that you can enjoy at your own pace. You don’t have to put too much strain on yourself while strengthening your muscles and increasing your flexibility.

However, if you want to get maximum benefits and enjoyment from swimming, it is important to get your technique right. Here are our top tips for how to swim better. Improve your swimming with these six simple tips!

How to improve your swimming

Always warm-up

Getting in the pool with cold muscles is a recipe for disaster. You will not have the flexibility you need, and there is a risk of you getting cramps. A correct warmup involves a number of simple exercises that you can easily do at the poolside. Stretches, push-ups and sit-ups are ideal for warming up your muscles and increasing your overall strength and flexibility.

To give yourself an extra advantage, you might also want to do some planks and core exercises, just to keep all the muscles you need for swimming in great condition.

Structure your swimming practice sessions

Jumping into the water and splashing about can be loads of fun! But if you’re serious about improving your swimming technique, you need to structure your swimming practice sessions so you can get some real meaning out of them.

Start off by swimming 200 metres freestyle at a constant pace and pressure. Then help yourself to focus by concentrating on just your arms or legs. This helps you to understand your swimming technique better and create a strong rhythm.

The main part of your session should be dedicated to swimming laps. If you have a lap pool or other rectangular pool in your backyard, this is the ideal environment for learning how to swim better. You can concentrate on improving your lap times and strengthening your technique without any of the distractions and obstacles that you always find at a public pool. And, as you’re in the privacy of your own backyard, you won’t need to feel self-conscious or embarrassed about it!

While you’re swimming laps, try to use as few strokes per lap as possible. Remember, a champion swimmer can do an entire lap in around seven strokes! Nobody expects you to be that good, but aim for less than 20, only starting the next stroke when you start to slow down from the previous one. It’s all about using your body in the most efficient way and creating more length in the water – you might have noticed that the top swimmers all tend to be tall! Creating a longer shape will help you to push the water out of the way more efficiently so you can use less energy and swim for longer.

Finally, make sure you remember to warm down with some gentle swimming before getting out of the pool.

3. Work on your breathing to improve your swimming

Good breathing is key to improving your swimming. A lot of swimmers tend to waste breath by gasping for air every time their face reaches the surface between every stroke. Part of becoming a better swimmer is learning to breathe more efficiently, using the air properly and reducing your breaths to one every three strokes instead of every stroke. This will help to reduce strain on your neck and shoulders as it means you are breathing on alternate sides rather than relying too heavily on one side or the other side of your body.

Learning to breathe more efficiently will also help you to keep your head in the right position when swimming freestyle. Many swimmers tilt their heads too far upwards or hold them too high, causing the rest of their bodies to drop too low in the water. This throws your technique off-course and slows you down. When you’re not breathing, your head shouldn’t move at all – you only need to tilt it slightly to the side to breathe.

4. Get your whole body working together

If you watch a top swimmer, their arms, legs and torsos seem to work together in synchronicity, propelling them forward through the water with what looks like very little effort. This is because they are using their bodies in the most efficient way possible. As you practise swimming, this will become natural to you if you get used to using the right techniques.

Your body position should be as straight as possible from your head to your hips so it can turn into each stroke to add more power. Keep your head low as this will keep your torso in a more streamlined position and reduce strain on your neck and shoulders. Doing this reduces drag and makes swimming easier. You should only tilt your head when you need to breathe.

Use your arms and hands like oars to pull your body through the water. If you hold your hands in a broad, flat position, this will help you to use your entire forearm to dig into the water, keeping your forearm at a right angle to your upper arm. At the same time, your abs and your lower back muscles should be taut as this will help you to propel yourself through the water using your arms and legs.

When it comes to your legs, it’s all down to the way you kick. Keep your leg muscles taut and your feet flexible so they can act like fins. If your feet aren’t particularly flexible, investing in a pair of swimming fins can really help your swimming performance. Small, fast kicks tend to work best as this technique gives your body stability in the water and prevents your legs from causing drag.

5. Work on your different strokes

Most swimmers tend to swim freestyle, so the majority of swimming practice advice is based around this stroke. But there are plenty of other swimming styles to choose from. It is important to be aware of all of them and work on your technique if you really want to be a better swimmer.

Here are some simple tips to consider when swimming in different styles:

Breaststroke

Your arms and legs have to work together here, but it is important to work on them separately if you really want to get your technique right. This is a stroke that requires a lot of coordination, so make sure you have the correct technique for your arms and legs so they can work in synchronicity.

One common mistake that swimmers make when swimming breaststroke is that they pull their arms back too far on each stroke, sometimes reaching almost to the hips. You will be more successful swimming in this style if you use shorter, more powerful arm movements that don’t even reach as far as your torso.

Backstroke

Many people think of backstroke as quite relaxing as it allows you to watch the world go by as you swim. But if you’re serious about becoming a better swimmer, you need to think about the different elements of the stroke so you can achieve more power. Backstroke can actually be one of the hardest strokes to get right.

The arm movement is particularly important here as it needs to come from your shoulders in a fluid, rolling movement. When your hand comes out of the water, your thumb should emerge first. Your arm then needs to twist mid-stroke so your pinky finger goes back into the water first.

Another helpful hint when swimming backstroke is to keep your head low and in a relaxed position. Many swimmers hold their heads too high when swimming this stroke, causing the body to be in an uncomfortable position – the upper body will be too high and the lower body too low. This creates a lot of drag, so it is important to keep your head low, making yourself more streamlined and also more comfortable.

Butterfly

The butterfly is all about the arms pulling you through the water. You should pull with your arms once for every two kicks. This synchronisation can be difficult to get right. It can be a good idea to practise with one arm at a time – do one lap just using your left arm and your legs, then another lap with just your right arm and your legs, before putting the whole thing together.

Doing one-arm drills will help you to keep your body in a more stable position and ensure that your arms are pulling with equal strength. This will result in a more balanced stroke, which is easier for you and looks better, too!

Flip turns

One simple way to improve your swimming is to master the flip turn. This is the way of turning in the water that top swimmers use at the end of each lap so they don’t have to stop swimming between laps. Mastering this technique will vastly improve your swimming and quicken your lap times as there is no pause between laps.

If you can do a somersault in the water, you can do a flip turn. It is important not to look at the wall as you approach it. If you look at the wall, you will slow yourself down by keeping your head up and also worry yourself about making the turn in time. Instead, look down at the bottom of the pool. Start to turn a half somersault when you see the “T” shape on the floor of the pool that marks the end of the lane.

Tuck your chin in, kick hard once and pull your arms down until they are at your sides. Then tuck your knees up to your chest and push with your arms to roll you over onto your back. At this point, when your half somersault is complete, stretch your arms over your head with your hands together pointing into the pool, away from the wall. Uncurl your upper body so it is in a streamlined “torpedo” shape. Extend your legs so your feet are planted on the wall, with your knees and hips at 90-degree angles.

Push off from the wall using your legs and feet so your whole body is now in a straight streamlined shape. You should still be on your back at this point. Use dolphin kicks or flutter kicks to propel you, and twist your whole body to one side so you roll over onto your front. Keep your body in a straight line the whole time to maintain as much momentum as possible.

6. Improve your swimming practice with the right pool

If you really want to improve your swimming and you don’t currently have your own pool, having your own pool can be a great investment. It is so much easier to practise swimming when you have a pool in your backyard – you can just step out of the door and into the water, any time you choose. There’s no more need to wait for public pool opening times; you can get some practice in before work or enjoy a dip to relax you at the end of a busy day. Or spend the holidays at home and swim as much as you like!

With so many pool shapes and sizes to choose from, it is easy to find a pool that can fit into your backyard and fit in with your lifestyle. The expert team here at Compass Pools Australia are always happy to help you find the perfect pool for you. Please contact your nearest dealership, and our friendly team will be glad to discuss your requirements.

For more swimming news and tips, check out our blog, which is regularly updated with articles about swimming and pools. We want to help you become the best swimmer you can be, and encourage a lifelong love of swimming for all!

The post 6 Top Tips for Getting Better at Swimming appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Just like any kind of sport, you need to warm up your body and always make sure it’s ready for any tedious activity. For golf, you would need to perform golf exercises, for basketball, you need to exert effort in circuit training, but since swimming is a watersport, exercises tend to be more difficult, but we’ll help you through it in this article.

There are several exercises to improve swimming available, and we’ll outline how you can use them to get better at swimming. Also, the type of pool you use can impact whether or not you swim better – we’ll go over several that are excellent choices below. Read on to get to our tips for getting better at swimming now!

Three Easy Exercises to Improve Swimming

You can focus on one area at a time to help you learn how to swim better. Dedicate time to each area of your body, and go as quickly or as slowly as you like.

1 – Planks

You don’t have to do all of your exercises in the pool to strengthen your body. One effective way to strengthen your glutes, arms, shoulders, upper and lower body is with planks. Position yourself like you’re going to attempt a pushup with your arms grounded slightly wider than your shoulders. Squeeze your glutes to stabilise yourself and use your toes to hold your feet. Your head should be in line with your back, and you hold this position for 20 seconds. Your legs shouldn’t hold any of the pressure. Planks, loved and recommended by (almost) all PTs, can significantly help you with getting better at swimming.

2 – Warmups

Before you get into the pool, you should be performing warmups to loosen your muscles up. This session should stay under 30 minutes. Do prone holds, stretch your hamstrings, do push-ups, burpees, and sit-ups. You can do this right alongside the pool, or you can do it in your home before getting into your pool. This reduces the risk of developing cramps.

3 – Core Exercises

Your core is the one place that will go through the biggest workout when you swim, so it makes sense to strengthen it any way you can. Start with the bird dog position. Get on your hands and knees and make your spine flat. Extend your right leg and left arm out, keeping them below your spine. Hold this position for five seconds before switching limbs. For V-sits, start in a seated position before raising your legs to a 45° angle. Extend your arms out to your knees and hold for 30 seconds. Strengthening can contribute to you getting better at swimming.

Six Big Benefits of Exercising in the Pool

There are several benefits that come with exercising in the pool or any body of water. These benefits are why many forms of therapy take place in the water, especially if people have injuries and they need to restrengthen their muscles. We’ve picked out the biggest ones and outlined them below.

• Low Impact – Unlike traditional exercise that can put more stress on your joints, swimming is very low impact. Water gives you buoyancy. This means you float once you enter the water. When you do your exercises, the water will save your joints from excess stress and reduce your risk of injury.
• Built-In Resistance – When you push against the water, you meet resistance. This resistance makes your body work harder to complete whatever exercise routine you have set up. You can adjust your resistance level depending on what you’re doing and the water depth. Deeper water has more resistance than more shallow water.
• Slowly Increase the Intensity – Water exercising is beginner-friendly. It allows you to start out slow and gradually work your way up to more complicated routines. To do this, you increase your time in the pool and take shorter rest breaks between exercise sets. You can also go to a greater resistance level.
• Tones Muscles – Working out in the water allows you to tone a huge range of muscles that you may not work out if you exercise on land. You can focus on more than one muscle group at once as well, and it helps keep your joints nimble because it’s so low-impact.
• Whole Body Support – No one wants to hurt their back because this can set you up for a lifetime of problems. Water exercises help to protect your body, particularly your back and spine. The water will support your weight and keep it off of your spine.
• Heart Healthy – Swimming laps, water jogging, or other water exercises are all aerobic. They get your heart pumping faster and encourage your vascular system to work. In turn, this can improve your heart health. Water also has a naturally cooling effect that lets you exercise for longer periods without feeling uncomfortably hot or sweaty.

Consider Investing in a Lap Pool

Lap pools are designed for swimming and swimming laps in your own lap pool can become an excellent way of getting better at swimming. We have several great lap pool models available at Compass Pools. They feature a narrow design that fits into more versatile areas, and they’re big enough to help you practice your swimming strokes. You can have this pool right outside your door, and this gives you the freedom to practice your swimming in the comfort of your own home. Spend the holidays at home and swim every day!

First up is the Fastlane lap pool design. This pool is excellent for serious swimmers because it offers lengths up to 30m. There are also two standard lengths coming in at 12 and 10m. This is more than enough space to help you clean up your strokes and improve your swimming speed. The flat bottom allows you to swim unhindered, and you can add optional external steps in several places along the pool wall.

Locate Your Nearest Compass Pools Dealer to Design Your Lap Pool

If you’re ready to try getting better at swimming in your own home, locate a Compass Pools dealer near you. They’ll be happy to answer all of your questions and help you decide which lap pool would work best for your needs. With dozens of colours and sizes available, you’ll get a pool you can’t wait to use for years to come!

The post 3 Exercises for Getting Better at Swimming appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Why Pool Water Circulation is Important

What happens when water stands still? It becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and algae, and it can look cloudy, muddy or dirty. Debris gathers in these stagnant areas, and it creates an environment that isn’t healthy for anyone to swim in.

The water also won’t be evenly distributed throughout the pool. This can cause chemical imbalances, leading to dirty or cloudy water. Also, you’ll spend more money trying to balance out the chemicals in your water, not to mention the waste.

Proper pool circulation takes care of all of these issues. It pushes the water through your filter system to catch and screen out dirt, bugs, grass and any other particles in the water. It can even get rid of the oils left by your skin or cosmetics. As long as your swimming pool circulation system is in good shape, it’ll help your water stay clear throughout the season.

How Pool Water Circulation Works

Pool circulation starts in your pump. You need to select the correct pump for your pool size and water volume, to ensure that it can cycle the water through several times a day. The pump connects to a horizontal hose that runs to your pool’s skimmer. Once you switch the pump on, it’ll create suction that starts to pull the water through the skimmer.

There is a vertical hose on top of your pump that will connect to your filter system. The water will travel through the skimmer and pump before entering the filtering area. The filter is the component that will screen out the debris and microscopic particles that could turn your water cloudy. A second hose connects to the pump’s exit and pulls the clean water back into the swimming pool.

When the water travels back into the swimming pool, it’ll circulate throughout it and mix with any chemicals you add into the water. It’ll spread the chemicals out in the pool and evenly distribute them. If you don’t have a pool circulation system, you have to drain and refill it on a weekly basis.

Pool Circulation Technology: Old Versus New

An old-fashioned eyeball and skimmer system works to clean the surface of the pool. This traditional water circulation system uses a pool skimmer box and a pump. The pump draws the water through the pool filter box before it returns it to the pool jets (eyeballs). These eyeballs are only 30 to 60cm below the water’s surface, and so only clean the shallower section of the water, leaving other areas untouched.

But new technology goes further than this. This technology allows for you to circulate and clean all of the water in your pool, and not just the surface.

At Compass Pools, we offer the Vantage cleaning system. This is an in-floor cleaning system that uses a series of nozzles embedded in the pool’s floor. They lay flat when you don’t use them, so they are out of the way. When you switch them on, the nozzles move to point upward and shoot the clean water towards the surface of the pool. This moves the water in a circular motion that drives it through the cleaning system.

Another option you have available to you is the Logic water circulation system. This system incorporates a skimmer and two wall drains. Once the water passes through the skimmer, the clean water is returned through the swing jets and is evenly distributed to every area of your pool.

How to Avoid Pool Circulation Problems

There are several things you can do to avoid pool circulation problems. First, you want to ensure you set up a proper cleaning routine for your pump and filter system. Even newer technology requires routine cleaning to keep it working in top shape.

To start, make a point to clean your pool pump filter at least once a week. If you notice that your water pressure has dropped, you may have to clean them sooner because there is a clog somewhere that stops the water from flowing through.

If your swimming pool has a cartridge filter, you’ll have to routinely spray it out. This will get rid of a lot of the trapped debris or particles and make it easier for the water to flow through. You should replace your filters every two to four weeks, based on your manufacturer’s instructions.

You may also want to backwash your filter system. When you backwash it, you make the water go through the system in the opposite direction than it would during normal operation. This can help dislodge any stuck-in debris or clogs, and the backwashed water is directed to the drainage port.

Maintain your pool’s recommended water levels. Ideally, the water levels will reach halfway up the skimmers. If they don’t, it can decrease the amount of water your system can screen. If there is too much water, you can overwhelm your system and harm circulation. This can also make it difficult to balance the chemicals in the pool water.

Locate Your Local Compass Pools Dealer Today!

Would you like to know more about the Vantage or Logic pool circulation system? Come and visit your nearest Compass Pools dealer. We are looking forward to helping you select the best pool water circulation system for your new Compass fibreglass pool!

The post Easy Ways to Improve Your Swimming Pool Circulation appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Compass Customers Love Their Self-Cleaning Pools

Learn why it’s so much easier to maintain your pool if you opt in for the Vantage self-cleaning pool system, unique to Compass Pools!

More about the Compass self-cleaning pool

The post Swimming Pool Maintenance for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Compass Customers Love Their Self-Cleaning Pools

Learn why it’s so much easier to keep your pool clean if you opt in for the Vantage self-cleaning pool system, unique to Compass Pools!

More about the Compass self-cleaning pool

Compass Customers Love Their Self-Cleaning Pools

Learn why it’s so much easier to keep your pool clean if you opt in for the Vantage self-cleaning pool system, unique to Compass Pools!

More about the Compass self-cleaning pool

The post 6 Useful Tips for a Clean Pool appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

What is a Kids Pool?

A family or kids pool is a pool that typically features a shallow area where your kids can freely play without worrying about straying into water that is too deep for them. The beach entrance is a design where the pool starts shallow and gradually gets deeper the further you walk in. Another option is to add a shallow area like a sun pod that directly connects to the deeper pool. Your kids can play in this shallow area while adults and older kids enjoy the other parts of the pool.

Benefits of Installing Pools for Kids

The right kids’ pool comes with a host of benefits for everyone in the family. During the hot Australian summer months, your entire family can enjoy your pool every day. They’ll have fun and enjoy the various benefits, including:

• Stay Cool – One of the most obvious perks of having a kids pool is that the kids can jump in and beat the heat. Having a pool in your backyard lets your kids take a quick dip any time of day they want, and they get the privacy they won’t get in public pools.
• Gathering Place – Pools create a natural gathering place for all of your kids, friends and family. Your kids can host pool parties and invite all of their friends over for a day in the water. Adults can sit in the shade and talk while the kids play safely in the water. Pools are a great way to have several kids over at the same time while keeping them entertained.
• Fun Way to Exercise – Water provides a place for low-impact exercise. Your kids feel almost weightless in the water, and they can easily play for hours at a time without getting tired. Even better, they can exercise without even realising they’re doing it!
• Lends Tranquility – The kid’s pool adds a little tranquillity to your home or backyard. You’ll be able to sit out and enjoy the sun sparkling on the water and the soft hum of the pool pump. Additionally, a pool can soften the edges of your yard and help pull all of your design elements together to create a cohesive space.
• Saves Money – While it can be more expensive upfront to install and maintain kids pools in Australia, it’ll save money in the long run. Instead of packing your entire family up and going to the beach for a day out, you can head to the backyard. You could even have a staycation and plan fun pool-related activities over those long school breaks.
• Adds Home Value – Any pool will give your home curb appeal. It’ll also cause your home’s value to go up when you install it. If you plan to sell your home at one point, a pool can be a massive bonus for the potential buyer, especially if they have kids or plan to start a family.
• Family Investment – The correct kids’ pool can be an excellent investment for your family. When your kids grow up, leave and start their own families, they can come back to your house with their kids. Your grandkids will love to go to grandma and grandpa’s house to splash around in the pool on those warm afternoons.
• Encourages Social Interaction – Your kids must learn social skills when they’re little, and a pool is a great gathering place. Your kids can hang out, interact and play games with their friends and family. Plus, having a kids pool makes your home the destination gathering place for all of your kid’s friends. It’s like having a playground at home.

Fun Features to Add to Your Kid’s Pool in Australia

You don’t want to have a pool with a single depth for your kids like you would with adults. Additionally, the more fun features you add, the more your kid’s imaginations will run. For example, a sun pod gives them an excellent place to sit down and play with the jets, and they cause spouts of water to shoot up into the sky. These water spouts are particularly fun for smaller kids who will have fun trying to stop the spouts.

A water wall is another popular idea. Your kids can pretend they’re mermaids playing under the waterfall. Since it runs at a slower pace, it’s safe for your kids to play around without fear of the water pushing them under or splashing them. A spa gives your older kids an area to relax with their friends, and your younger kids can use it to warm up between dips in the bigger pool.

Maybe you want warmer water because you plan to have smaller kids in the pool. If so, heating elements can help you get precision control over your pool’s temperature. Solar energy, gas and electric heating are all available, and the one you choose for your kid’s pool will depend on when you plan to use it, how often you plan to use your pool and more.

Benches are entertaining areas you can add to the sides of your pool to give your kids a shallow place to hang out and play. You can choose from a few different depths and sizes. Maybe you want a bench that runs along the side of your pool, or you want a few smaller areas placed around your pool at intervals. These spaces are great alternatives that don’t take away from the pool’s swimming areas.

If you plan to teach your kids to swim in your pool, adding learn to swim steps is excellent. Broader and more shallow steps are better for kids pools than short and deep. You want your kid to gradually walk into the water and feel comfortable rather than step off into a surprising depth that could scare them.

Maybe you want to create an area where both your bigger and smaller kids can play comfortably. If so, you can install a larger pool and add a wader or pond. These areas are very shallow spaces attached to the deeper pool. Adults can sunbathe, smaller kids can play comfortably and safely, and older kids can have a blast playing in the deeper water.

LED lights can add a whimsical touch to your kid’s pool that can make it fun for your kids to swim after dusk. You can even combine these in-pool lights with a string or two of fairy lights around the edge of the pool to create a fantasy land for your kids to play in.

Jets are fun for your kid pool. They’ll spurt water out into the pool and give your kids a fun element to play around. They can even practice their swimming and see how well they do when the jets switch on. For adults, these areas can provide short bursts of hydrotherapy that help relax their muscles while they watch their kids play.

Finally, you want to think of the colour scheme in your kid’s pool. The pool should look inviting and safe, and colour plays a significant role. For example, bright and vivid colours may be a better choice instead of darker colours. Your kid should be able to easily see the bottom and every corner of the pool before they go in. Being able to see everything gives both you and your children peace of mind.

Should You Pick an In-Ground or Above-Ground Kids Pool?

Before you decide on an in-ground or above-ground setup, consider a few things. The cost, size and longevity are three significant points you have to keep in mind when you shop. They include:

• Average Cost – In-ground fibreglass pools can cost between $30,000 and $70,000 to buy and install while cheaper above-ground pools typically cost between $4,000 to $12,000. For the above-ground pools, this estimate doesn’t include a deck, landscaping around it, or plumbing and electrical work. However, there are also high-quality and great-looking alternatives available. For example, Little Pools are ready-to-use fibreglass pools that look great and are perfect for families with kids.
• Size – Both above- and in-ground fibreglass pools can be large or small. However, the above-ground pool usually comes with a single depth while you can have sloping depths with in-ground pools.
• Longevity – If you choose a fibreglass pool that is above-ground, in-ground or partially in-ground, you’ll get the same lifespan. Most fibreglass pools can last well over 20 years as long as you maintain them as the pool manufacturer recommends. Vinyl kids pools are cheaper, but they only last between five and nine years, even with proper maintenance.

Design Ideas for Kid Pools

Compass Pools has family pool designs available that give you a classic look while meeting all of your needs. The Contemporary pool line is excellent for kids pools because it has very shallow ends for smaller kids with deeper centres for bigger kids. Both ends have benches, and there are larger and broader steps that allow your kids to ease into the water and sit down.

Another option is the Vogue pool, and you can choose several different sizes to fit your space requirements. This pool has a ledge around the edges where your kids can sit and ease their way into the water. An anti-slip coating on the steps makes this pool safer for the entire family to enjoy without fear of slipping or falling.

If you plan to use your backyard for a lot of entertaining, you can add a shaded area or patio close to your pool. This way, you can entertain your guests while your kids play in the pool under your supervision. This setup also makes it easy to host pool parties or family gatherings because your kids don’t have to go far to eat or drink before heading back to the pool.

One thing your pool has to have, especially if it’s for kids, is fencing. You have to fence your pool off around all sides. This fence will keep everyone safe when they’re playing in the yard and not in the pool or if a neighboring child winds up in your yard when you’re not present. You have to be careful what objects you put by your fencing as well, your kids can’t use them to climb over the fence and play in the water when you’re not around to supervise them. Your gate should have a secure latch that your kids can’t reach.

Things to Consider When You Pick Out Your Kids Pool

If you’re seriously considering a kids pool, there are a few things you want to keep in mind when you shop. They include:

• Budget – Make a budget and stick to it. You want to get the best kid’s pool possible without breaking the bank.
• Maintenance – How much time do you have to dedicate to maintenance? Pools for kids need maintenance to keep the water clear and the pool swim-ready. As a general rule, fibreglass pools are more straightforward to take care of than other types. And if you select Compass Pools, you can get a self-cleaning pool that requires (almost) no maintenance.
• Space – How much space do you have in your backyard for your pool? Remember that you have to have space for the deck or surface at the edge. You also want to be able to move around your yard once we install the pool.
• Use – Since this will be a family or kids pool, they’re usually more extensive. You want enough room for all of your planned activities.

Visit Your Local Compass Pools Dealer Today!

We invite you to stop by our nearest showroom and discuss your options for your new kid’s pool in Australia. You can request your free quote by finding the closest dealer or calling us on 1300 667 445! We can’t wait to hear from you!

The post How to Pick the Perfect Pool That Will Grow With Your Kids appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

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.

What is the McGrath Foundation?

Jane McGrath co-founded the McGrath Foundation after battling breast cancer herself. She made her experience public, including how difficult it was to go through breast cancer the first time without the help of a breast cancer nurse. When her breast cancer came back, she found the services of a breast cancer nurse, and this nurse transformed the treatment process and helped Jane handle her diagnosis.

In turn, Jane wanted every Australian family and breast cancer patients to have access to a breast cancer nurse throughout their journey. The McGrath Foundation’s services are entirely free, and these nurses are here to hold your hand and answer any questions you may have. Every January, The McGrath Foundation and people whose lives have transformed due to the Foundation celebrate Jane McGrath Day at the Sydney Cricket Ground at the Pink Test.

The mission of this Foundation is to have nurses who provide emotional, physical and psychological support from the minute a patient has a breast cancer diagnosis throughout the treatment process. It doesn’t matter if you’re in public or private care, the nurses can come to you. Additionally, nurses from the McGrath Foundation provide support and care for early breast cancer to metastatic breast cancer.

The services are 100 percent free, and the McGrath Foundation can continue its work thanks to generous donations from responsible businesses, community members and private donations. There are currently 135 Breast Cancer Care Nurses in the McGrath Foundation, and the Foundation has reached over 75,000 families. They gave over 200,000 hours of care in the last year alone, and this can be invaluable for both the patients and their families.

How the McGrath Foundation Works

This foundation strives to make it as quick and easy as possible for people to gain access to qualified Breast Cancer Care Nurses, and this is why they don’t require referrals. Instead, all  you have to do is click on their interactive map. This map will allow you to find one of their nurses closest to you. When you click on one of the nurses; a small profile will pop up and tell you their name, where they are, the facility they work in, facility address, their email, phone number and the days they work.

If you can’t find a nurse near you, you can call the McGrath Foundation’s hotline. This hotline will connect you straight to a Breast Cancer Care Nurse, and they’ll help you find the nurse closest to you. These nurses can then come to you and offer their support or answer questions as they arise.

Ways to Give to the McGrath Foundation

There are numerous ways you can give to the McGrath Foundation, either on your own or as a responsible business to help raise awareness for breast cancer in Australia. It costs roughly $140,000 to support a single McGrath Breast Cancer Care Nurse for a year, so giving is always appreciated. Ways include:

• • Individual Donations – Every little bit helps, and each donation helps fund the commitment and initiative of the McGrath Foundation by providing resources for their nurses and the patients they assist.
  • Monthly Donations – Monthly donations help reassure patients with breast cancer that the Breast Cancer Care Nurses’ services will continue well into the future. You can set the donation amount, and they welcome every donation.
  • Will – You can write the McGrath Foundation in your will and leave a generous gift after you pass. This lasting gift will support more nurses.

• Celebration – Celebrating someone you know and their triumphant fight with breast cancer is an excellent way to show them you care while raising funds for the Foundation.
• In Memory – Leave a lasting legacy for someone lost to breast cancer by donating funding in their name and honour.
• Shop Pink – Shop pink with the Foundation’s Pink Partner Products any time of the year. Purchase proceeds go back into the program to support the nurses.
• Volunteer – You can join a host of community volunteers that work at the Pink Test event in January or other events the McGrath Foundation hosts throughout the year.

Why Breast Cancer Care Nurses Are so Important

A breast cancer diagnosis can be a terrifying and devastating time in anyone’s life, and no one should go it alone. Family and friends can provide support, but what happens if you have questions? Or, what if you need someone who understands and is ready to hold your hand?

These services are what the Breast Cancer Care Nurses do for both the patients and the family members. They can help guide everyone from the diagnosis point to picking a treatment and beyond. Sometimes, it’s easier to lean on someone not in your immediate family, and that is what the McGrath Foundation’s nurses do. They provide caring, attentive and empathetic support, so you never feel alone.

How Compass Pools Supports the McGrath Foundation

We are a responsible pool manufacturer that takes great pride in working side by side with the McGrath Foundation to fight breast cancer and raise breast cancer awareness across Australia. In 2017, we gladly became a corporate partner with the McGrath Foundation.

In just two short years, we’ve raised over $330,000 that we’ve given directly to the Foundation. Our goal over the next two years is to raise $150,000 per year. This amount is enough money to support one full-time Breast Cancer Care Nurse for a year, and this allows these nurses to continue helping families throughout Australia.

Every single pool we install helps us reach our pledge goal of $150,000 per year in donations. Every client that trusted us to install their pools also gave back to their community through Compass Pools. Additionally, we volunteer our time with various McGrath Foundation activities and events to ensure every penny raised goes directly to supporting the Foundation’s cause.

Throw a Pink Pool Party and Help Compass Pools Hit Our Donation Goal

We decided to challenge ourselves even more and raise our donation goal for the McGrath Foundation by pledging $1 million. The Pink Pool Party started with a dream by Compass Pools founder Ian Mewett. In 2016, he dreamed he was driving down the motorway and spotted a Compass swimming pool with a bright pink exterior. Ian took this as a sign that Compass Pools was meant to help the McGrath Foundation by donating and becoming a corporate partner.

Our new goal is to raise funds over the next few years to hit our target of $1 million for donations. The Pink Pool Party is a fun way for our customers to help raise additional funds while celebrating past, present and future breast cancer patient’s journeys.

You can register to host your own Pink Pool Party, and you can make it a small event for friends and family or a huge event! Once you register, you’ll gain access to pre-made invitations and social media content you can send out to your participants.

Buy Pink Party pool gear from our site, create a pink pool area and party on while raising donations. Once you finish with your party, you can deposit the funds into our collection account, and we’ll put the money toward our goal of $1 million. It’s that simple!

Additionally, Compass Pools hosts Pink Pool Parties throughout the year! Our next Pink Pool Party date is March 7, 2020! You can register your party for this date, and we’ll give out random prizes leading up to the event for party hosts. Join in the fun and help us celebrate the McGrath Foundation at the same time by becoming a Pink Pool Party host!

Visit Your Local Compass Pools to Find Out More About Hosting a Pink Pool Party

If you’d like more information on how Compass Pools supports the McGrath Foundation, you can stop by your local Compass Pools. We’re happy to answer your questions. You can also check out the Pink Pool Party site, the McGrath Foundation or find your nearest authorised dealer.

The post Presenting the McGrath Foundation: Advocates for Breast Cancer Care and Support appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Let’s Define a Swim Spa

A swim spa combines a spa and a swimming pool all in one setup. It’s bigger than your standard hot tub, but it’s not quite as large as a full-sized pool. You can install your swim spa anywhere you can install a traditional hot tub, and this is exciting news for people with limited space. The powerful pumps on the swim spa create a current that allows you to swim in place, the aquatic equivalent of running on a treadmill. You can switch on the jets and lets them massage your cares away as well.

Buy a Swim Spa in Sydney

Since Sydney is a more extensive metro, it makes sense that you can choose from several different swim spa manufacturers. Each one brings their unique spin to swim spas, but the result is the same. You’ll get a relaxing oasis that you can’t wait to visit. Some of the biggest names in Sydney include:

• Sapphire Spas – For the past 17 years, Sapphire Spas have dedicated themselves to providing Sydney residents with spas that change their lives. They combine potent aesthetics with functional design to bring a host of swim spas to their clients. This company is Australian-owned and made, and they have a life care commitment that guarantees service for as long as you own your swim spa.
• Splashes Spa World – Since 1993, Splashes Spa World have taken the initiative to provide Sydney residents with the perfect swim spa. They have nine different options available, ranging from three- to six-seaters, and customers get excellent service with cost-effective pricing. They have four showrooms and lifetime support for each person that purchases the spas.
• Vortex Spas – Vortex Spas create a line of luxurious swim spas that can withstand the extreme weather conditions Australia throws at them. They use cutting-edge technology to give you the cleanest water imaginable without having to pour tons of chemicals into the water. This technology also makes it easy to care for and maintain your swim spa.
• Endless Spas – As a family-owned and operated business, Endless Spas have two generations working here. They have a line of swim spas available that include freestanding and in-ground setups. This company routinely donates spas to families in need who use hydrotherapy with their ill or disabled children.
  

Get Your Swim Spa in Melbourne from Reputable Companies

Melbourne is a thriving city with a relaxed atmosphere, and it has people who love to spend quality time with family and friends. So, it makes sense that being around the water is second nature. Having your swim spa gives you a gathering place for your friends and family, and you get several reputable companies that can help.

• Swim Spas Plus – This company features 31 different swim spa designs, and they’re an industry-leading supplier of swim spas in Melbourne. They bring over 44 years of experience in designing and installing swim spas to the area, and their goal is to offer high-quality products at cost-effective pricing. They have multiple shows they exhibit at each year, and they have features in several magazines.
• Swim Spas Melbourne – Each swim spa from this company comes from local designers that understand Australia’s unique weather conditions. They have several lines available, and every swim spa seats up to 10 people. This space is more than enough room to host gatherings, and the powerful jets allow you to swim or relax and let your cares melt away.
• Just Spas and Outdoors – With over 14 swim spa models available ranging from 5 to 9 seats; you’ll get a sleek look that’s perfect for small spaces. They’re one of the largest swim spa manufacturers in the Southern Hemisphere, and they’ve been in business for over 25 years. You’ll get innovation, craftsmanship and quality each time you purchase swim spas from them.

Find a Swim Spa in Brisbane From a Quality Supplier

Brisbane has a charming and youthful feel with almost 300 days of sun each year. This playful atmosphere, combined with the gorgeous temperature makes it the perfect place for people to enjoy their swim spas. There are also several reputable swim spa manufacturers to choose from, including:

• Brisbane Spa Super Centre – This company offers some of the most cutting-edge swim spas in Brisbane. You’ll choose from five different lines of swim spas and dozens of different shapes, sizes and colours. They seat from a few people up to ten, and the staff offer expert advice to help you pick out the best option.
• Spa Choice – Specially designed to meet Australia’s rigorous standards, Spa Choice have five different swim spa lines available. No matter if you want hydrotherapy, family fun, French designs or something more straightforward, you’ll find it here. They also have all of the parts and accessories you need to keep your swim spa running at maximum efficiency.
• Spas Direct – You’ll get the choice of 11 different spas when you choose Spas Direct. They offer payment plans that make it easy to afford the swim spa of your dreams this summer. They come with sleek looks, bright interiors and eye-catching outer shells that are sure to match any design or theme you have.

Pick Your New Swim Spa in Newcastle

Newcastle features gorgeous beaches and a vibrant downtown area with sunny and warm weather. But the beaches can get crowded, and this may send a lot of people searching for a new swim spa in Newcastle. You can enjoy the water in the privacy of your backyard, and there are several reputable suppliers in the area. They include:

• Always Clear – With 16 spa pools and several swim spas available, Always Clear have something for everyone. You get a range of colours from deep blue to white, several depths and a few different sizes. They use Australian-made swim spas, and this ensures each customer gets quality products each time they shop.
• Bubbly Spas – Since 2008, Bubbly Spas have given Australians cost-effective swim spa choices. Their prices start at $1,500, and they stock brand-name spas with warranties. The Australian-made spas and accessories enable you to get everything you need all in one place. They have covers, pumps, stairs, steps, cover lifters and more they’ll deliver straight to your door.
• Blue Haven Spas – Blue Haven Spas have options that seat two, five, six and over six people comfortably at the same time. You get the choice of four different designs in white or black, and the jets give a relaxing hydrotherapy massage. The friendly staff will work with you to help you find the best swim spa for your situations.

Consider a Swim Spa Alternative

Maybe you want something a little different than a swim spa, but you’re not sure what alternatives are available. If so, Compass Pools has authorised dealers in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney North, Geelong, Sydney South and Newcastle. We’re happy to talk to you in person. If you’re in a different location and what to find our nearest authorised dealer, you can use our easy pool builder locator. As it stands, you get a few choices when it comes to shopping for something other than a swim spa, and your options are:

Spa and Pool Combination

Any of our pools at Compass Pools can have a spa added on that gives you the best of both worlds. We currently have several different pools available for every size yard. You can add your spa to almost any corner, and it uses the same water the pool does to reduce waste. Your kids can have the time of their lives playing in the pool while mum and dad relax a few feet away in the spa.

Plunge Pools

For small backyards, plunge pools are an ideal choice that gives you the joy of pool or spa ownership without taking up a lot of space. Plunge pools come in different sizes, and they feature a gently sloped bottom that allows you to choose how deep it goes. This option can be wholly or partially above ground, and you can add all of the amenities you’d get with a traditional pool.

Swim jets and spa jets are two of the most popular accessories our customers like to add to their plunge pools. You can get a relaxing hydrotherapy massage each time you turn them on. Other fun accessories for this setup include benches and steps. You’ll be able to sit and relax as the jets massage your cares away while beating the summer heat.

Little Pools

A third option we have at Compass Pools is our Little Pools. We specially design these pools to fit into small backyards while blending flawlessly with the landscape. The exoskeleton is a non-corrosive material that makes these pools durable and long-lasting. The installation process is another perk with Little Pools. You can install them fully above ground, partially in-ground or fully in-ground.

Pick Your Size

The first thing you want to do is pick out the appropriate size for your Little Pool. Compass Pools gives customers a few different choices, including:

• Relax Pool Range – You’ll get a 6.3m by 2.35m pool in this line that is great for allowing one or two people to unwind.
• Refresh Pool Range – This range is slightly smaller than the Relax range at 6.1m by 2.5m, but you’re able to go for a quick dip to refresh yourself when it gets hot and humid out.
• Plunge Pool Range – There are three plunge pools in the Little Pools line that range from 2.8m to 4.8m. These are deeper pools that give you the best of both worlds.

Pick Your Colour 

There are four exciting colours to choose from when you decide to install a Little Pool. Each one creates an eye-catching and elegant look when the sun hits the water. Royal and Marine are the two darker shades that create a classic look, or you can choose the lighter Ice and Marble tones.

Pick Your Exterior Finish 

You’ll pick from two different exterior finishes with the option to add a burst of colour with a UV-resistant Greenwall. The exterior finishes are:

• Mini Orb – The Mini Orb finish is our standard finish that comes in six shades ranging from cream to black. These are corrugated steel panels that withstand wear and tear, and they create a unique exterior finish. The matte colouring fits wonderfully with different design aesthetics.
• Aluminium Composite – You’ll get flat panels that consist of two thin aluminium sheets with a coal coating. The sheets bond to a non-aluminium core for added durability and resistance to fading, chipping or cracking.
• UV-Resistant Greenwall – The optional choice we give our customers is a UV-resistant Greenwall. This coating adds a pop of bright and bold colour to your Little Pool. You can add it to a single segment, or you can add it all around the outside.

Pick Your Accessories 

Now comes the fun part! Once you pick your size, range, colour and exterior finish, it’s time to pick your accessories. We have several options available that can help you create a unique Little Pool that fits your tastes and lifestyle. Popular accessories include:

• External Steps – Making entering your Little Pool a quick and easy process.
• Balustrades –  Fence off your pool to keep little ones safe as they play in the yard.
• Sanitation Systems – Keep your pool area clean, bright and ready to swim with a tailored sanitation system.
• Swim Jets – Create an exercise area that allows you to swim to your heart’s content with our swim jets.
• Multi-Coloured LED Lighting – Enjoy your Little Pool after dusk or host a party with fun LED lighting.
• Heating Options – Use our heating options to create a spa-like experience in the comfort of your backyard.
• Energy-Efficient Pumps – Keep your pool clean while saving energy; ask about our energy-efficient pump options.

Visit Your Local Compass Pools Today!

If you want advice on whether or not a swim spa is right for you, or you have questions about our Little Pools, stop by one of our showrooms or find your nearest authorised dealer. You can also call us at 1300 667 445 today!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Best Swim Spa appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Different Pool Materials and the Construction Process

Before you get to decide your pool’s shape or size, you have to consider the pool material and construction process involved. There are three main types of pool material you can use, and each one has a different construction process. They include:

Fibreglass

Fibreglass swimming pools come as a large, single shell. A pool installation company will come out and survey your yard. Once you decide on a spot to place your pool, they’ll excavate a hole to match the pool’s unique shape and size. A truck will deliver this fibreglass shell to your home, and the company will lift it into the hole using a crane. Fibreglass pools are ready-made, and this can make it difficult to request a custom design. Most companies that manufacture fibreglass pools have many sizes and models to choose from, and they have pre-formed benches, spas and steps.

Fibreglass is popular for pools because it makes for a rapid pool building process. The interior is very smooth, and this prevents algae from clinging to it. Fibreglass can cost more, and it usually starts to deteriorate after 10 or 15 years.

Concrete with Aggregate or Plaster

If you choose a concrete pool, the pool company will come and excavate the area of your yard where the pool will sit. They’ll frame or line the sides and bottom of the hole with steel rods, and they can turn them into almost any shape you desire. When the company finishes the steel rod placement, they’ll spray either gunite or shotcrete to form the pool shell.

Using this concrete shell with steel bar reinforcement is one of the most popular pool building materials. It has excellent durability, and the concrete itself is very porous. Concrete allows the shell to hold water in, and it is relatively easy to add another coat of plaster years down the line.

Vinyl

Vinyl pools use a plastic or metal frame that the pool company builds above ground, or they can excavate a hole and slip the outer lining inside. The company will place supporting panels or walls made out of aluminium, steel or plastic along the frame before they line in with a thick sheet of vinyl. The bottom is sand, and coping will hold the vinyl’s top-down to create a finished edge.

Vinyl is relatively inexpensive to install, but it does deteriorate in the sun and from exposure to pool chemicals. You can get vinyl liners with UV-protectant coating, but you should only expect your pool to last between 10 to 18 years.

Alternative Finishes

You can choose to have different materials added to your pool’s surface to increase the longevity and give it a sleek look. Popular options include plaster, concrete, stone and tile. Pebble aggregate is gaining popularity because it creates an eye-catching look. When you apply these alternative finish to your pool, they can last between 8 and 12 years.

The Best Pool Shape and Size

Your pool’s shape and size will also play an essential role in how satisfied you are with your pool. Before you decide on a form or size, you want to consider the following:

What is Your Pool’s Purpose?

Will you use your pool a few times a summer and let it sit the other time? If so, you don’t necessarily need a more extensive structure. Maybe you plan to have large family gatherings around your pool. If this is the case, you’d need a more extensive setup. If you plan to use your pool for exercise, you have two options. You can get a larger, more elongated pool to swim laps, or you can get a swim spa where jets keep you in place while you swim, like a treadmill for swimmers.

The deciding factor is the pool’s purpose. You want it to be large enough to accommodate any activities or the number of people who want to use it. If you have three or more in your family, a larger pool is usually the preferred option.

What Are Your Limitations?

You can fantasise about a pool all you want, but the reality is, you’ll most likely have limitations. The cost, time, space and any prefab requirements make up your four most significant limitations.

• Cost – When you consider your pool’s price, size is the most significant factor. Your budget may make you choose between getting a larger pool with sub-par materials or selecting a smaller pool with better materials.
• Time – You’ll spend more time maintaining a bigger pool. If you hire someone to clean it, this won’t be a big deal. However, if you plan to do it yourself, consider how much time you want to invest in cleaning, chemical balancing and maintaining your pool.
• Space – Your pool should fit into your backyard, but it should also leave space for you to move around and host other activities. You’ll need additional space around the pool itself for the deck.
• Prefab Requirements – If you have your heart set on a fibreglass pool or you’re using a kit and doing it yourself; you have limited prefab options. There’s also a maximum size attached to fibreglass pools because they have to travel on trucks.

Who Will Use Your Pool?

Do you plan on having adults only using your pool? If so, having a deeper pool will give you a greater swimming area. If you have kids, having a shallow end or a wading area is an excellent option to consider. Are there any mobility limitations? If there are, maybe you have to have a gentle slope or steps over a traditional ladder. Beach entries usually work best with smaller pools. The goal is to try and plan for the long-term with your pool so you don’t find yourself stuck with something everyone can’t enjoy.

Popular Types of Swimming Pools

Did you know there are over several different kinds of swimmming pools? Along with deciding on a size and shape, considering the pool type is another important factor. At Compass Pools, the different kinds of swimming pools we offer come in small, medium and large sizes, and they include but are not limited to:

• In-Ground – If you have a flat installation site, in-ground pools are a popular option. This type of pool helps to reduce the pool’s final cost.
• Partially  Above-Ground – Maybe you want to have your pool’s ledge meet an existing deck. If so, a partially above-ground installation can be a cost-effective and convenient option to consider.
  
• Above-Ground – Above-ground pools are great for anyone who has a sloping surface or a backyard that isn’t the correct size or shape for a pool.
  
• Plunge – Smaller yards or spaces can benefit from having an elegant plunge pool. This setup is deep, elegant and perfect for hydrotherapy.
• Family – A family pool gives you enough room for all of your family activities. There are several sizes and options available.
• Lap – Lap pools work well for serious swimmers. It’s a narrow pool that comes with custom length options.

The Best Pool Add-Ons

Pool add-ons are features that you don’t necessarily need for the pool to function, but they can help you customise your pool. They can add luxurious or calming elements to your pool, and the most common pool add-ons include:

• Water Features – Water features are stunning add-ons that create an eye-catching look for any pool. You can pick from different materials, heights and spillways to make them truly unique. You’ll hear the serene and tranquil sound of running water each time you step out to your pool.
• Tanning Ledges – Tanning ledges are shallow areas along the edges of your pool that run about a foot deep. You can request benches or chairs to sit and relax in while you enjoy your pool and the warmth of the sun.
• Spa  – A spa is an elevated area of your pool that shares your pool’s water system. The water here is much warmer than the central part, and you can have jets adds to soothe your aches and pains.
• Underwater Lighting – Maybe you want to enjoy your pool at dusk or in the evening hours. Underwater lighting not only looks great, but it helps to make your pool safe to swim in after dark.
• Jets – Jets can give you a soothing element with your pool. You can opt for regular or swim jets if you want something more powerful. Swim jets are ideal for people who wish to exercise in a smaller pool.
• Beach Entry – A beach entry is a sloped entry into your pool. The water starts shallow in one end, and it gradually gets deeper the further into the pool you go.
• Benches – Adding benches into your pool gives you a space to sit and relax. These benches are usually built right into the side of the wall, and you’ll sit in shallow water.

Choosing Vibrant Pool Colours

You don’t have to have boring blue, green or white pools anymore! There are now dozens of dazzling colours you can choose to put on your pool walls. Gel coating gives you dozens of pool colour options and the most popular include:

• Sapphire, Ice Blue or Arctic Marine – Having a light blue or green base with silver, white or deeper blue flakes gives you stunning blue water that has specks of white, light grey and medium blues.
• Royal Blue, Pacific or Atlantic – The dark blue gel coat will turn your pool’s appearance into a very dark blue. This colouring is excellent for day swimming, but it can look almost black at night.
• Beach – The golden brown base comes with flecks of black and lighter brown shades. You’ll enjoy a classic look with crystal-clear water.
• Pearl, Pink Quartz, Quartz or Grey Marble – Some people like the look of quartz because it’s chic. These colours are typically a grey base with white, pink, gold or black speckles, that can look like small rocks.
• Evolution or Viridian – Evolution or Viridian are deeper hues that add an intense and vibrant look to your pool. They help your water sparkle in the sunlight.

Deciding on the Best Filtration System

There are three pool filtration systems you can choose from when you install your pool. Pool filters measure how clean they get your pool in microns. A micron is one-millionth of a metre. To put in perspective, a single strand of human hair is 50 microns while bacteria are 2 microns. The three filter types are cartridge, sand and diatomaceous Earth.

Cartridge Filter

Cartridge filters will work great in small or medium-sized pools. This filter system comes with a tank and a plastic cylinder inside the container. The plastic cylinder comes surrounded by a pleated polyester filter, and there are caps at both ends to hold it in place. Water circulates through the polyester into the tank and out into your pool.

The filter catches any debris that is 10 microns in size or larger. You will have to clean them periodically because they can clog with debris. There is no backwashing, and this filter performs very well at slightly lower speeds.

Sand Filter

Sand filters are for people on a budget who have very little time to maintain their pool’s filtration system. It works well in large pools because it’s challenging to clog. The system sucks pool water through skimmers before forcing it through a large sand tank. The sand traps debris down to 20 microns. This system comes with an external pressure gauge that lets you know when it’s time to backwash the system.

Since this filter doesn’t trap anything below 20 microns, keep up with your pool’s chemistry is critical. If you don’t, you’ll get bacteria in your pool water with you. Sand filters work with #20 silica sand, filter glass and Zeosand.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth filters catch particles down to .5 microns, but they’re also the most labour-intensive option of the three. This filter system has a tank with grids. The grids have a white powdery substance stuck to them. Crushed fossilised remains make up the white powder substance you see.

This pressure forces the water through the tank and the grid. Anything larger than .5 microns will stick to it. There is a pressure gauge on the outside of the unit that tells you when you need to backflush it. However, you now have to add more diatomaceous earth to your grids. You should mix it until you get a slurry and slowly pour it into your filter system. Don’t swim for at least 12 hours after you backflush it.

Picking a Water System

Finally, you want to decide on a water system for your new pool. There are four broad categories you can check before you make your final choice. They include:

Chlorine

Chlorine pools are the traditional water systems. The chlorine treatment comes in granular form, liquid and tablets. When the chlorine hits the pool water, it sets off a chemical reaction. The chlorine will then oxidise any contaminants in your pool water. Chlorine is a residual sanitiser, and this means it works for weeks after you initially added it to the pool. It’s inexpensive, but it can cause dry skin. You’re not supposed to swim for a few hours after treating your pool.

Salt

Saltwater has been a popular choice for pool water systems since the 1980s, a revival of old-fashioned pools in the days before chlorine. The salt you add to the water effectively kills contaminants while giving your water a “softer” feel. This system is lower maintenance than chlorine, and you don’t get that harsh chemical smell when you treat your pool. The salt is also corrosive to the pool and filtration system, and it can be expensive to replace them once the salt corrodes it away.

Mineral

These pools utilise several different minerals to sanitise the pool and improve the water’s quality. When you have a mineral pool, you’ll have water that contains water-balancing chemicals and sanitiser. However, it also contains salt, magnesium chloride, and potassium chloride. There are health benefits associated with swimming in these minerals, and it makes them popular with pool owners throughout Australia.

Natural

A natural pool comes designed to mimic natural lakes and ponds. These pools use a natural filtration system instead of a chemical one to clean the water. With these pools, there is a smaller pool very close to the main pool, and it’s called a regeneration zone. The pool water filters through either constructed wetlands or a gravel filter. This regeneration zone catches the contaminants and pushes clean water back into the main pool.

UV Sanitation

Although chlorine has always been the go-to choice for pool sanitation, UV is a newer option that is gaining popularity. Ultra Violet technology can kill 99.9% of micro-organisms, algae, fungi, viruses and bacteria in your pool’s water. As the swimming pool water circulates, it’ll trigger the cleaning process and the water will pass through a UV lamp. This light from the UV lamp will kill any organisms, and clean water will flow back into your pool.

Compass Pools Can Help You Pick the Best Swimming Pool

If you’re considering picking out a new pool, Compass Pools can help. We have dozens of styles, sizes, shapes, colours, filtration systems, and materials available. We’re happy to answer your questions and help narrow down your options. You can drop by one of our locations, call us on 1300 667 445 or find your nearest authorised dealer.

The post What to Consider When Picking the Best Pool for You appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

It can take a great deal of time and effort, when you would rather be enjoying the water. But cleaning a pool is essential if you want it to be a safe and healthy environment for you and your family.

There are a number of different options available to you when it comes to pool cleaners. We have put together the ultimate guide to swimming pool cleaning. Here we outline the options and what each one means for you.

Why you need to know how to clean a pool

Every swimming pool needs a good filtration system to circulate the water. This is essential as it helps to minimise algae and bacteria, and regulate the pH levels in your pool. It also ensures that your pool water remains healthy and hygienic. However, a filtration system alone is not enough to provide a clean environment for swimming.

Adding chlorine or salt is another essential part of cleaning a pool. However, these can amass in large quantities over time. And this can inadvertently create an ideal environment for bacteria and algae to breed. Obviously, this is the exact opposite of what you want to achieve.

Also, as the vast majority of pools are located outdoors, there will be times when leaves and other debris will find their way into the pool. These cannot be removed by chemical means or the filtration system. You need to know how to clean a pool so you can keep using and enjoying it safely and hygienically.

Different types of swimming pool cleaners

Swimming pool cleaning can be achieved using a number of different methods. The main types of pool cleaners include:

Manual pool cleaning

This literally means cleaning your pool by hand using a number of pieces of swimming pool cleaning equipment, such as:

• A telescopic pole which extends far enough to clean the walls and floor of your pool
• A skimmer net, which attaches to the telescopic pole to collect any debris that has found its way into the pool
• A pool brush, which attaches to the pole to scrub dirt and algae from the walls and floor of the pool
• A manual pool vacuum with a hose long enough to reach all areas of the pool, and a vacuum head which attaches to the telescopic pole.

All this equipment needs to be good quality and suitable for the type of pool you have. For example, an unpainted concrete pool requires a brush with stainless steel and nylon bristles. Painted concrete or fibreglass pools should only be brushed with all-nylon brushes.

As you might expect, manual pool cleaning takes a lot of time and effort. If you lead a busy lifestyle without much free time, you would be much better considering investing in a different type of pool cleaner.

How often should you manually clean your pool?

Your pool should be skimmed every day to keep it safe and healthy. It will also need to be brushed at least twice a week, and vacuumed every two or three days.

Automatic pool cleaners

Cleaning a pool is far easier with an automatic pool cleaner. Most pool owners these days have some kind of automatic cleaner rather than choosing to clean their pools manually. These cut down dramatically on the amount of time and hard work involved.

Automatic pool cleaners do cost more than the equipment required for manual pool cleaning. But the investment makes sense as it enables you to spend much more of your free time enjoying your pool instead of cleaning it.

There are three main types of automatic pool cleaners. These all operate differently:

1. Suction side cleaners

Suction side cleaners hook up to your skimmer, which is the part of your pool filtration system that sucks the water out of the pool to be filtered. The cleaner moves around the floor of your pool picking up dirt and debris. It is propelled by the motion of the water being sucked through it. Some suction side cleaners can also climb pool walls to keep those clean too.

Suction side cleaners are relatively easy to clean and maintain, and they are also the cheapest of all the types of automatic pool cleaner. However, they can only work when the pool pump is running. This can use more energy as you will need to run your pool pump for longer so the pool can be cleaned while you are not using it. This type of cleaner can also put a strain on your pool filter over time.

2. Pressure side cleaners

Pressure side cleaners hook up to the return jets, the parts of your filtration system which propel the water back into your pool once it has been filtered. Pressure side cleaners have a filter bag and a sweep hose. This makes them more advanced and effective at picking up debris and cleaning the pool than suction side cleaners. As a result, they come at a higher price.

The cleaner is moved around the pool by the water being pushed back out of the return jets. This loosens any dirt and debris, which is pushed up into the filter bag. The result is an effective and efficient pool cleaner.

However, there are many different types of pressure side cleaners on the market. That’s why it is essential to choose the right model for your pool, particularly when it comes to the amount of power in the cleaner.

3. Robotic pool cleaners

Robotic pool cleaners are the most advanced and effective of all automatic pool cleaners. They run on electricity, so they operate completely separately from the rest of your pool system. You don’t need it to be connected to the filtration system of your pool.

Robotic pool cleaners operate on very low voltages, and they have extra-long power cords. They are specifically designed to be safe for use in the water, in spite of being electrical devices. In addition, they can only be plugged into sockets which are designed to cut out automatically if any electrical imbalance is detected. Every safety precaution is taken and you can use a robotic pool cleaner without worrying.

Robotic pool cleaners are the most expensive of all automatic pool cleaners. But they are a wise investment due to the amount of time and effort they can save you. They have their own brushes and vacuum attached, enabling them to clean every area of your pool thoroughly. This allows you to maintain a healthy and hygienic pool environment without the stress and effort of cleaning the pool yourself.

Robotic pool cleaners do require regular cleaning and maintenance. But this is a small inconvenience when compared to the amount of time they save you.

Self-cleaning pools

For the ultimate in easy swimming pool cleaning, you can invest in a self-cleaning pool. This might sound like something from the future, but it is actually available today thanks to the latest smart pool technology.

In-floor pool cleaner systems literally clean the pool from bottom to top themselves, so you don’t need to do anything at all. Your pool can clean itself while you are asleep or out of the house. This leaves you with a fresh and hygienic pool to jump straight into whenever you want.

The Vantage in-floor pool cleaner system, exclusive to Compass Pools Australia, has led the way in this innovative new technology. It is available as an option with all fibreglass pools from Compass.

The Vantage system operates via a number of nozzles which integrated within the pool floor. They lie completely flush when the system is not in use. This does not cause any obstruction when swimming or any negative impacts on the appearance of the pool.

The nozzles release jets of freshly filtered water throughout the pool, pushing all dirt and debris into a designated cannister. The system is completely silent and can be automated, so you can set the pool to clean itself at times which are convenient for you.

The benefits of an in-floor cleaner system

The Vantage self-cleaning pool system makes your pool cleaner and more hygienic than any other method of pool cleaning. This is because the water is circulated from the bottom of the top of the pool. The entire pool is cleaned, leaving no spots where bacteria and algae can grow.

Most automated systems simply push the filtered water in at the top of the pool, only circulating the top third of the water. This means algae and bacteria can still grow at the bottom, leaving your pool unclean.

In addition, the pool chemicals are circulated evenly throughout the pool as well as the water. This means the pool requires far smaller amounts of chemicals to clean it. This creates a healthier, more environmentally-friendly pool that saves you money on pool chemical supplies.

Another benefit is that it vastly reduces the dry skin, irritated eyes and breathing difficulties that can come from swimming in pools containing too much chlorine. This is particularly important if you have children. You can enjoy peace of mind that comes from not having to store large quantities of potentially hazardous pool cleaning chemicals on your property.

In addition, it makes your entire property safer for children. There is no need to store large quantities of potentially harmful pool cleaning chemicals that the kids could get into.

Are there any disadvantages of in-floor pool cleaners?

Self-cleaning pools are truly revolutionary. They make your pool smarter and more eco-friendly and free up significant amounts of your precious time. You can spend this extra time swimming and relaxing in the pool, or bonding with your family in the water.

However, like all systems, there are a number of points which it is important to be aware of if you are considering purchasing an in-floor pool cleaner system.

1. All systems are different

The Vantage self-cleaning system is only one of a number of in-floor pool cleaning systems available on today’s swimming pool market. Just as Vantage is completely exclusive to Compass Pools, the manufacturers of other in-floor cleaners make their systems exclusive to their pools, too.

This means you really need to do your research when looking at in-ground pool cleaners. It is important that the pool and the cleaning system available with it both suit your needs. Every system will have different features, so you need to compare these when choosing your pool manufacturer.

2. They cannot be fitted retrospectively

As in-ground pool cleaners are literally built into the floor of your swimming pool, they have to be installed at the time of manufacture. This means you will have to choose an in-floor pool cleaner at the time when you order your pool. The pool shell can be built with the cleaning system already installed.

Unfortunately, this means if you have an older pool without a self-cleaning system, you cannot have one fitted. However, if you are considering purchasing a pool at present, it makes sense to include an in-ground pool cleaner. This will make your pool ownership more of a pleasure and less of a chore.

3. They can be expensive

The amount of technology that goes into producing an in-floor pool cleaner system is significant. And this can add a sizeable amount to the overall purchase price of your pool. However, over time they can save you money as you will have to purchase far smaller amounts of pool cleaning chemicals.

In addition, the amount of time they save you is considerable. You will have plenty more hours to spend enjoying your pool rather than maintaining it.

Find out more about the self-cleaning pool

At Compass Pools, we are always happy to provide you with more help and information about all the optional extras we can provide with our fibreglass pools. If you would like to know more about the Vantage in-floor self-cleaning system and consider having it installed in your new pool, please talk to one of our authorised dealers. They are always happy to answer all your questions and discuss your pool project with you.

The post Swimming pool cleaners: Your options explained appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Below, we have taken an in-depth look at pool circulation systems. You can find out why they matter so much, what they do, and what your options are when it comes to choosing the best system for your pool.

Why circulating your pool water matters

If the water in your pool is not moving, it is not healthy. Think of what happens to a pond or stream when it can only flow slowly – the water turns green and goes stagnant. Swimming pool water is no different. So, if you want to maintain a clean pool which is safe and healthy to swim in, you need an effective pool water circulation system.

Failing to circulate your pool water properly can have all kinds of negative consequences for your pool. Algae and bacteria can grow on the underwater surfaces, which ruin the appearance of your pool as well as being potentially harmful to your health. Have your ears ever hurt after swimming? This is caused by bacteria which has unwittingly been left to grow and multiply in the pool water.

For the sake of you and your family’s health, you need to ensure your swimming pool jets are doing their job and the pool water is being circulated properly.

In addition, correct pool water circulation makes it far easier for you to keep your pool clean. As you will know if you are a pool owner, cleaning the pool can be a laborious and time consuming job. And nobody looks forward to it!

However, it is far harder if algae and bacteria are growing in your pool. If you have an effective pool water circulation system, it makes for easy pool ownership. This improves the entire experience of having your own pool, not just swimming in it.

What makes a good pool water circulation system?

Australian pool standards recommend that the entire volume of water in your pool needs to be pumped out, filtered, sanitised and recycled back into the pool at least once a day. That’s a lot of water to move and treat within a 24-hour period.

Some traditional pool circulation systems are capable of achieving this. However, there can be problems arising from their operation. In order to understand these issues, it is important to know how these traditional systems work.

How a traditional “eyeball and skimmer” system works

A traditional pool water circulation system, which most backyard pools have, is known as an “eyeball and skimmer” system. The “skimmer” refers to the pool skimmer box, which is powered by a pump and removes the pool surface water. This water is then propelled through the pool filter box which cleans it before returning it to the pool through the pool return jets.

These pool jets are known as “eyeballs” due to their shape. They are usually located between 30cm and 60cm beneath the surface of the water, on the wall opposite the pool skimmer box.

This might seem like a reliable method of circulating your pool water. But it does have a number of significant disadvantages:

1. Your pool set up needs to be powerful enough

Your pool pump needs to be powerful enough to cope with circulating the entire volume of water in your pool every day. If you have a large pool, you will need an extremely powerful pool system.

This is not something which every pool owner researches thoroughly enough before they buy. As a result, many pool water circulation systems are inadequate for the job they are expected to do. The result is that your pool water will not be circulated quickly enough. It can become stagnant and create the right conditions for algae and bacteria to grow.

2. Pool pumps can be expensive to run

Pool pumps can cost a significant amount of money to run. This is especially the case if you have an older pool and filtration system. Old systems are not nearly as energy-efficient as modern pool technologies.

Because of this, many pool owners restrict the time that they leave their pool pumps operational to cut down on energy usage and costs. This can be detrimental to the sanitation of your pool water.

If the pool pump is not left on for long enough, it will not have time to circulate enough of the water. And much of the pool will still contain unfiltered water which can have bacteria lurking in it.

3. Not all pool systems circulate all the water

The most serious problem with an eyeball and skimmer system arises from the positioning of the pool jets. As they are located so close to the surface of the water, only the top third of the water is getting re-circulated over and over again. This means the water nearer the bottom is never getting circulated or cleaned. In addition, your pool chemicals are not being distributed evenly throughout the whole of the pool.

This can cause serious problems. The unfiltered water in the bottom two-thirds of the pool continues getting dirtier. It can create ideal conditions for bacteria and algae to breed.

You can think your pool is clean and the circulation system is doing its job, but everything might not be as it seems. Suddenly you can find your ears hurting after swimming, or your pool turning green. Without the right pool circulation system in place, it is difficult to know what to do about these issues.

This circulation problem can also result in the heat not being distributed to all areas of the pool, producing “cold spots” lower down in the water. Having an unevenly heated pool can seriously impede your swimming enjoyment as well as increase your energy bills. It requires much more heat for your pool to reach a comfortable temperature.

Alternatives to traditional pool water circulation systems

Just like all technology, pool innovations are moving on all the time. These days easy pool ownership is possible thanks to some of the innovative pool cleaning and circulation systems which are now available on the market.

In-floor pool cleaning systems are becoming more and more popular with pool owners in Australia, and with good reason. These systems solve all the problems which can occur due to traditional eyeball and skimmer systems. They also provide a number of other important advantages for those looking for an easy pool to clean and maintain.

The Vantage in-floor self-cleaning system from Compass Pools Australia has led the way in this innovative technology. Designed by some of the top innovators and engineers in swimming pool design, it works in a highly efficient and effective way. This ensures that all of your pool water is circulated continuously, creating a clean and healthy pool environment.

The Vantage system is truly smart pool technology. A series of nozzles are embedded within the floor of the pool. When the system is not operational, these nozzles lie flat, so you cannot see them and they do not impede on your swimming space in any way.

When you set the system to operate, the nozzles raise up, shooting clean water upwards towards the top of the pool in a circular motion.

This process ensures that all of the pool water is constantly being circulated, not just the top third. As a result, every area of the pool is cleaned, and the pool chemicals and heat are distributed evenly throughout the pool. This eliminates cold spots, and it also ensures that there are no areas where bacteria or algae can begin to grow.

The Vantage in-floor pool self-cleaning system also has a number of other advantages for pool owners:

1. Your pool literally cleans itself

The highly efficient circulation of the Vantage in-floor pool cleaning system ensures that the water is cleaner, healthier and safer. This is because of the even distribution of your pool chemicals and the entirety of the pool water being circulated.

However, it does much more than this in keeping your pool clean. The powerful pool jets in the floor of the pool also push dirt and debris into a collection zone. From here it is pushed by a single nozzle into the main drain and collects in a specially designated debris canister.

This cleans your pool more effectively than any form of manual or robotic cleaner. You save significant amounts of time and effort in cleaning your pool and this allows you to enjoy the pool more fully.

2. It saves you money

Due to the extremely high efficiency of the Vantage pool system, it requires far less energy to run than a traditional pool circulation system. It also only needs less than half the amount of pool chemicals as they are circulated much more effectively.

This saves you significant amounts of money – up to $600 a year – on energy bills and pool maintenance costs. In addition, it has a positive impact on the environment due to reduced energy usage, something we all need to think about today.

Of course, no system is perfect. The main problem with in-floor pool water circulation systems is that they cannot be fitted retrospectively. If you already have a pool, you cannot have it adapted to include an in-floor system.

However, if you are considering buying a pool, it is an important consideration to think about. A number of pool companies in Australia now offer their own in-floor pool cleaning and circulation systems. These are only available with their own pools, just as Vantage is only available with Compass fibreglass pools. It is important to do your research and find out exactly which pool water circulation suits your needs best.

Find out more about pool water circulation

The right pool water circulation system is key to an easy-to-maintain pool. It improves the quality of your swimming experience as well as making your pool more low-maintenance. With the choice of systems available, there is sure to be one which can meet all your needs.

If you would like more information about the Vantage in-floor self-cleaning system, or any other Compass Pools features and options, you can find details on our website. Alternatively, please contact us to discuss your needs, and our team will be happy to help.

The post Pool water circulation: Is your pool system doing its job? appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

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It’s not as simple as asking how much a swimming pool will cost, as clearly there are many different sizes, shapes and specifications of pools. There are a few basic rules, for example pool prices will vary according to the size and style you go for. Total above ground pool prices installed could, in fact, really surprise you if they’re an option you hadn’t considered before! The cost will also depend on whether you’ll decide to go for a DIY pool installation or you’ll go with a professional pool builder.

Groundwork

The cost of groundwork to prepare your area for your pool is a factor that can vary greatly according to the challenges presented by your site and the amount of time it takes to overcome them.

If you are planning an inground pool, this could be the most expensive option. It’s hard to pinpoint an exact figure for this, as it will depend on the total amount of labour hours spent on preparing your area and equipment hire, such as diggers.

Above ground swimming pools prices can, in certain cases, represent a more affordable option, and are worth investigating if creating an inground pool would involve a lot of work on a difficult site. For example, if you have difficult access or rocky ground on site, you can take advantage of Compass Pools’ unique Maxi Rib technology to provide an appropriate level of support. Generally, though, because of the more expensive fibreglass pool shell and more demanding landscaping, a high-quality above ground pool can be cost more than a standard inground option.

Pool

It’s hard to give an estimate of an inground pool. Prices will vary greatly according to the size and shape of your pool.

One way to know for sure how much your pool will set you back is to purchase a prefabricated fibreglass pool shell.

Compass Pools provides a wide range of sturdy, hygienic and long-lasting pool shells to suit a variety of backyard sites, design aspirations and styles. Ranging from a 12.34 m long Fastlane lap pool to a compact 2.8 m plunge pool perfect for small plots, you will find a pool to suit your lifestyle and budget.

For more elaborate projects, for example for infinity pool prices, expect to pay more to reflect the extra work involved. In fact, an infinity pool is one of the most costly pools, adding up to $35,000 to a pool project, with the total setting you back up to $70,000+ for the pool shell and installation alone. This cost is due to the specialised nature of the infinity pool – you will need a special edge to your top pool and the addition of a hiding pool to accommodate the water that flows over the infinity edge.

Concrete pool cost tends to come in at more than fibreglass shells due to the more complex nature of their design and installation. You will also find that you are hit with higher maintenance costs with a concrete pool, and on average you will have to have it resurfaced once every 15 years.

Another factor to consider if you are thinking about a concrete pool is whether your soil is stable enough to accommodate it. If not, this could be a very costly mistake. It’s worth bearing in mind that a fibreglass pool has the ability to move with the soil, so it is a safe bet wherever you live.

Trades

Your pool installer will provide the expertise to safely install your pool and in most cases, he will provide tradespeople to complete the works once the pool is situated on the block.

You’ll need a plumber to connect the pipe from your filter to your discharge point, and possibly also to carry out drainage on site. To give you a starting point, the average cost of a plumber per hour is $75 per hour for a master plumber.

Next, you will need an electrician to provide circuit-to-pool equipment, with heat pumps and control systems being hard wired. Electricians charges can oscillate around $85 per hour.

Paving or decking

Once your pool is safely installed, you will need to finish off the surrounding area to make it a suitable place to relax and enjoy your new feature.

If you go for paving, you can work out a price based on a range of $35-$60 per coping paver. If you’re after a rough estimate at this stage for a 7 m swimming pool, it would be wise to budget between $6,000 and $10,000 for paving, including some extra for a seating area.

There are other options besides paving, of course. Decking is popular and stylish. The average cost for the materials for a standard size deck is between $3,400 and $6,500, but of course, this can vary wildly according to the type of material – treated pine is very affordable, or you can splash out on hardwoods such as spotted gum or merbau.

Artificial turf is another practical option, and you will find this good value for money, so for each square meter expect to pay around $80.

Remember you will also have to factor in labour costs to install any of the above materials.

Fencing and safety features

Australian regulations state that fencing is a safety requirement around pools, so this is a cost you won’t be able to avoid.

Again, the cost depends on what sort of material you choose for your fencing. The price is around $200 per metre for timber fencing, up to $600 per metre for glass fencing.

If you’re on a tight budget, you could go for aluminium fencing which is around $150 per metre.

Pool house

An optional extra is a pool house to provide shelter and shade when you’re having a break from the pool.

Like many other items, the cost will depend on how elaborate a model you choose. A simple timber pergola is often a good place to start. For an average-sized pergola of 5 m by 3 m, you could pay around $2,550 for one fashioned from treated pine, while an insulated model made of hardwood would set you back in the region of $3,750.

Pool landscaping

Landscaping around your pool area can be as simple or as complex as you like. For the lower end of the budget scale, you could spend a few hundred dollars on foliage that thrives in pool areas and plant it up yourself, perhaps splashing out for some extras like gravel or ornaments.

At the other end of the spectrum, a full landscape of your pool area with copious, plants and trees, and other elements such as garden ornaments, sculpture or other such accessories could set you back tens of thousands of dollars.

Accessories

It’s not just about the pool…think of the loungers or deck chairs you will need to fully enjoy your new feature, as well as other furniture, such as outdoor tables or sofas, and even maybe a fire pit or some striking sculptures. The sky is really your limit here, and a conservative estimate of the minimum you would spend on some simple loungers or chairs would be in the region of a few hundred dollars.

Heating

The cost of heating your pool is an ongoing one. Unless you live in one of Australia’s hottest climate zones, you will need to heat your pool to make it useable during the cooler months of the year.

Of course, solar heating is the most reasonable way of funding your heating costs. In this case, the cost to set up your solar heating system would be up to $4,500, with running costs of approximately $250 a year – as you can see, it’s a pretty good value for your money.

Running costs for other systems would average at around $500 to $1000 for electrical heating and $500 to $1,500 for gas heating. The prices and running cost vary according to the climate and size of your pool. Please refer to our Pool heating article for more insights into different pool heating systems.

Chemicals

Another ongoing cost is that of the chemicals (usually chlorine) needed to keep your pool sanitised. This tends to be around $100 per year. Note that how often you need to top up your pool chemicals will depend on how often you use the pool and whether you cover it when not in use.

Filtration system

Your filtration system is essential to keep your pool safe and free from debris such as leaves, dirt or anything else that makes its way into your pool. You will have a choice of a regular cartridge filter, a sand filter or a glass filter. The one factor to bear in mind here is that a cartridge filter requires more maintenance than the other types.

The typical cost to install a filter system is around $1,500-$3,000, which includes the plumber and electrician fees. Then you have to factor in the cost of running your system. On average, the cost of running your filtration equipment will be approximately $0.50-$1.00 per hour depending on your energy provider.

Typically, you will need to run your filtration system for six to eight hours per day in the summer months, and up to four hours per day in winter, but you may need to alter this according to the size of your pool, how heavily it is used and weather conditions.

An economy pump that runs at different speeds could save you up to as much as 60% off your bill, or you could work your system only in off-peak periods to slash your bill even further.

Cleaning

For cleaning – an absolutely vital part of your pool care programme – you have a number of choices: robotic systems, cleaning your pool yourself or having it cleaned by a professional team for a monthly fee, to name three of these.

A robotic cleaner will set you back in the region of $1,500. They are pretty efficient, working independently of your pool filtration system, and can even be controlled by your smartphone.

It’s hard to put a figure on the cost of employing a professional to come and clean your pool on a regular basis so it’s probably worth you doing a bit of research in your local area or asking neighbours for recommendations if they already have a pool.

One way to avoid cleaning costs is to purchase a Compass Pools self-cleaning pool. The cost of the self-cleaning system is built into the price of the pool you purchase, so you won’t have to find extra money in your budget for this.

The system is pretty ingenious. It’s based on circulating the water, keeping it debris-free, safe and clean. Nozzles embedded in the floor of your pool keep the water circulating around the pool, ensuring that water is distributed evenly from top to bottom keeping the temperature constant and spreading chemicals to eliminate bacteria evenly throughout the pool.

One of the great advantages of this system is that your bacteria-killing chemicals will work more efficiently, therefore saving you money. In terms of power, it’s also affordable to run.

They also work automatically every day, so their operation takes up very little of your time and thought, which is not the case with robotic cleaners which you will have to unpack and set up on each occasion.

The verdict

It’s really tricky to put a price on the total cost of a pool project without looking at every aspect of your lifestyle, design dreams and choices. As a very rough figure, for a fibreglass pool installed by professionals, you would need to allocate between $45,000 to $75,000 with very basic landscaping. Of course, this figure will vary according to what accessories and extras you choose, and also the level of landscaping you opt for. For an above ground infinity pool, you should expect to pay between $70,000 to $110,000.

The best way to get a feel of how much a pool project will set you back is to ask the experts and get a quote based on your individual circumstances and choices. Contacting a Compass Pools dealer is the first step in your exciting journey to pool ownership, and a lifetime of enjoyment.

The post Pool and backyard costs combined appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

The post Stunning and affordable backyard pool design ideas appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Lap pools are long, slim pools whose primary function is to allow you to swim laps, as their name suggests.

They are an excellent addition to anyone’s backyard, allowing you to exercise at home whenever you want, and obviously perfect for anyone who enjoys clocking up those laps around the pool!

You may be surprised to learn that lap pool size is variable, so even smaller backyards would be able to accommodate one of the more compact pools.

Lap pools can be inground or above ground, making them a versatile and stunning feature for any backyard.

Built to similar quality standards as regular pools, lap pools are becoming increasingly popular as a way to enjoy your favourite exercise at home.

Why are they popular?

Lap swimming is a much-loved sport and leisure activity in Australia, and of course, we have the perfect climate to make it possible to enjoy outdoors! This makes lap pools an increasingly popular choice for homeowners.

Ideal for its promotion of cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength, swimming is an all-rounder. It also brings benefits for mental wellbeing and relaxation.

Lap pools are perfect for teaching kids to swim, given their narrow widths and resting ledges to give them a breather as they learn.

Having a lap pool in your backyard is also something of a statement: no matter which length you choose, the result will be a stunning addition to your home. Lap pools regularly feature in lifestyle media and are a sought-after design statement for those with impeccable taste.

Types of lap pools

You can opt for either an above ground lap pool or in-ground lap pool, which will usually be made from a fibreglass shell or constructed on site from concrete.

Compass Pools Australia provides a wide choice of lap pool designs.

The Fastlane pool is perfect for serious swimmers with its unobstructed swimming corridor. It offers an attractive feature for your backyard, with customisable options such as a range of vivid colours to really make a statement.

Compass Pools Australia offer a range of Fastlane fibreglass lap pools at two standard sizes: 10.34 m x 2.78 m and 12.26 m x 2..78 m. We also have the ability to tailor make a lap pool to fit your backyard, up to 30 m in length. Or, if you have a smaller outside area, they can be scaled down to even 6 m or 8 m in length.

The shells of our Fastlane fibreglass lap pool shells are almost 1.5 m deep, which is perfect for jumping into, swimming laps, and using it for relaxation.

Meanwhile, the X-Trainer pool is a great solution for families. Its wide steps and ledges make it easy for children to get in and out. Its shallow-to-deep floor and slip-resistant surfaces are also fantastic additional features. It goes without saying that it boasts an unobstructed swimming corridor for those serious about exercise. Customisable options are also available.

Finally, the Vogue pool is practical on many levels, with an unobstructed swimming corridor as well as central entry steps, wide step ledges at both ends, and a step ledge providing a safe place for children or less-confident swimmers to relax. Its contemporary design makes it a stylish addition to your backyard.

Why choose a lap pool with fibreglass shell?

Fibreglass shells for lap pools offered by Compass Pools Australia are high quality, durable and low maintenance, holding on to their stunning appearance for years.

Installation is made easier with the shell delivered directly to your property.

As mentioned previously, fibreglass lap pools come in two standard sizes or can be customised bigger or smaller depending on the space available in your backyard.

One great advantage of using fibreglass is that its surface is resistant to both bacteria and algae, making it a safe and hygienic option. It’s also able to resist chemicals such as chlorine, as well as diverse weather conditions.

What’s more, fibreglass lap pools will not require repainting or resurfacing, making them ideal for people with busy lives.

Concrete lap pools

It is also possible to create a lap pool using concrete. This is a flexible option, as you can customise the design according to your taste, and also be an asset if your backyard is difficult to access for delivery of a fibreglass shell.

Concrete lap pools are best suited to sites that are difficult to access and that would struggle to accommodate delivery of a fibreglass shell.

If you opt for a concrete lap pool, there is plenty of flexibility and you will be able to contribute your ideas to its design.

They are also great for irregular or hard-to-work-with ground as they can be customised to suit the terrain.

It’s worth knowing that as a material, concrete is more susceptible to bacteria and algae due to its porousness.

What features can I expect with a lap pool?

The step ledges and wide steps of the lap pools described above make them perfect for families and for relaxation, while the unobstructed swimming corridors ensure they are suitable for serious exercise.

Choosing a fibreglass shell will mean you can customise your colours and can be assured that you have invested in a long-lasting and practical pool with a minimum of maintenance.

The Vantage self-cleaning system, using a series of efficient cleaning nozzles, will keep your pool in top condition with a minimum of effort.

Did you know that your lap pool can double up as a spa? The versatility of a Compass Pools model means that you can customise your pool, adding jets to transform it into a relaxing spa, perfect for hydrotherapy or aquatic exercise. The wide steps and ledges allow you to sit back and enjoy the soothing water.

Why would a lap pool work for us?

Lap pools are so versatile – serving the serious swimmer who enjoys clocking up the laps to those who simply want to relax and enjoy the water. They are also perfect for anyone who enjoys gentle aquatic exercise such as aqua aerobics or water walking, as well as soothing away aches and pains.

Thanks to their slim dimensions, they can fit even into smaller backyards and combined with thoughtful landscaping, provide a stunning focal point.

The fact that lap pools can be self-cleaning is often a deciding factor for families with busy lives.

Why do they look good?

Lap pools are distinctive for their long, narrow silhouette, creating a feeling of elegance in your backyard.

Because the fibreglass shells provided by Compass Pools Australia are customisable, you can even extend the length of your lap pool to create a truly stunning feature.

What you do with the surrounding area can also produce a stunning effect. Decking or tiling around the pool will give your backyard a relaxed vibe, while the plants, trees and flowers you choose to enhance your pool area can produce any effect you want, be it tropical, Mediterranean. or contemporary.

Lap pool ideas – landscaping

As mentioned above, you can opt for decking around your pool to give the area an inviting feeling and encourage long, lazy hours of lounging by the pool with family and friends.

Tiling adds a sophisticated feel to your pool area. Try pure white or off-white tones to recreate the feel of a Mediterranean retreat, or more vibrant tones for a Moroccan vibe.

Safety features including gates and railings can blend into the environment while providing total peace of mind.

Your choice of planting around the pool area is key. You can go full-on with dramatic grasses and bamboo to give you an instant burst of greenery. Cactuses and succulents can provide interesting shape to your pool area, while bougainvillea will provide vibrant colour, and lavender will scent the air with its relaxing fragrance.

Lap pool prices

A fibreglass lap pool represents a value-for-money choice, allowing you the freedom to exercise whenever you want in your own backyard.

A standard fibreglass pool from Compass Pools Australia will range from $45,000 to $75,000, depending on the options you choose to go with it.

If you’re looking for an individualised lap pool that joins two or three standard pools together, then expect to pay around $95,000 to $130,000, depending on your package.

Remember to factor into your budget items such as landscaping, decking, and safety features such as gates. Learn more about the cost of your pool project here.

What next?

Make sure you check out your local council approval requirement, as well as there are any preservation orders on trees that will need to be cleared before you start work. You can also find out whether any cables or pipes run under your planned pool area by consulting your site map.

Lap pool design inspirations Melbourne

If you live in the Melbourne area, you have the perfect climate to enjoy a beautiful lap pool all year round, or simply to sit around and take in the relaxing atmosphere on cooler days. Think about installing a heating system, so you can enjoy your pool even in less summery weather.

Check out the details on safety standards for swimming pools in Melbourne here before you embark on your dream project.

Then all that remains is for you to contact your local authorised Compass Pools Australia pool builder, who will be able to efficiently install your above ground pool with the minimum of hassle. Compass Pools Melbourne service all Melbourne suburbs. Gordon Ave Pools & Spas are your Compass fibreglass pool builder for Geelong and adjunct areas.

Lap pool installations Sydney

Sydney offers a warm and pleasant climate nearly all year round, and any backyard would benefit from a stunning lap pool. Because there is plenty of sunshine, the most efficient way of heating your pool in the cooler months is with solar heating, so you may want to factor this into your budget.

Find out about the safety standards regarding pool fencing and gating for the Sydney area before you start. You can find out the details here.

The final piece of the jigsaw is to contact your local authorised Compass Pools Australia pool builder, who will start making your pool dream a reality. Local Pools & Spas are your fibreglass pool builder for southern Sydney suburbs. If you are located to the north of Sydney CBD, talk to Compass Pools Sydney.

Lap pool designs Brisbane

Brisbane’s sultry climate makes it an ideal location to install a striking lap pool in your backyard. Blessed with all-year-round balmy temperatures and plenty of sunshine, Brisbane is an ideal location for you to install a stylish, practical lap pool.

You will need to be fully aware of safety regulations, which you can find here, before you start your project.

Now you’re ready to contact your local authorised Compass Pools Australia pool builder, who will get your inground or above ground pool lap pool up and running in no time!

The post Lap pools: the lap of luxury appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

They are ideal for aquatic exercise and hydrotherapy, or simply to soak away the cares of the day. They are also favoured by people who enjoy a rigorous workout, as they provide the perfect, relaxing environment to unwind in after intense exercise.

They can be installed above or in-ground, and because of their smaller size, they are cost-effective and a great solution for someone who has limited space and budget.

Plunge pools are built to the same high standards as regular-sized pools, and the beauty of them is they come with seating and so are the perfect environment for relaxing and enjoying the water.

Why are plunge pools so popular?

Australian plunge pools are becoming increasingly popular, particularly as new build homes jostle for less and less space.

Their compactness and versatility mean they are perfect in a smaller backyard and have cheaper running costs than normal sized pools.

Design-wise, they add an attractive and striking aspect to your backyard, creating a truly luxurious feel within a small footprint. For anyone who thought a backyard pool was beyond their wildest dreams…think again!

The icing on the cake is that small pools such as plunge pools are environmentally friendly, using up less water and fewer chemicals than conventional pools.

Types of plunge pools

Plunge pools can be installed above ground or in-ground, and are usually made from a fibreglass shell or constructed on site from concrete.

In terms of dimensions, plunge pools tend to be between 2.85 and 7 metres long, with depths up to 1.42 metres, lending themselves to many water activities and perfect for gentle relaxation.

Plunge pools with fibreglass shells

Plunge pools are available with fibreglass shells, such as those provided by Compass Pools. This long-lasting material is the same as that used for regular pools, so rest assured that the quality will not disappoint. Fibreglass also retains its good looks over time, so you can enjoy an attractive, low-maintenance feature for many years to come.

The ready-made fibreglass shell will be delivered directly to your backyard ready for installation.

Fibreglass shells can be provided in a range of designs and shapes, with customisable options for landscaping around the area.

One of their winning features is their algae- and bacteria-resistant surface, making them easy to keep clean and fresh. The material is also hardy enough to withstand constant contact with pool-cleaning chemicals and all the weather conditions the Australian climate can throw at it!

There is no requirement to resurface or repaint your fibreglass plunge pool, making them a low-maintenance, attractive and durable choice that should last for many years to come.

Concrete plunge pools

Plunge pools can also be made from concrete, constructed on site so that you have a say in the result concerning design and looks.

If you have a backyard that’s irregular in shape, this can be a good way forward, as the pool can be customised to suit the terrain.

You can tailor your concrete plunge pool with a tiled or painted finish, and just like the fibreglass versions, concrete pools can come with self-cleaning systems to make life easy.

Be aware that because concrete is a porous material, it is more vulnerable to algae and bacteria.

What features can I expect with a plunge pool?

As mentioned above, many plunge pools come with seating built in, making it possible to simply sit back, relax and enjoy the soothing effects of water.

If you choose a fibreglass shell, you can easily customise your pool by choosing from a range of colours, from deep blues to greys and sand.

An optional extra is spa jets, which are especially appropriate if you are intending to use your plunge pool as part of hydrotherapy to soothe aching joints and limbs, for example.

You can also install a self-cleaning and circulation system with a series of cleaning nozzles, which is a great asset to keep your pool sparkling clean. As they are often installed on small plots, your pool will be visible from the house, so keeping your plunge pool pristine is always a good look.

Why would a plunge pool work for us?

A plunge pool provides the perfect environment for all the family to relax and let off steam.

Of course, their star feature is their compact size, making them increasingly popular in built-up environments where space is at a premium. They can fit comfortably into small backyards, and indeed provide an attractive focal point from all areas of your yard or house. Combined with clever landscaping, they make a truly stunning and unique feature of your home.

While you may not be able to swim laps in a plunge pool, if you enjoy gentle exercise one of these small but perfectly formed pools will provide the perfect environment for activities such as aqua aerobics, water walking and stretching. You can even add jets giving you a current to push against! For anyone who is reluctant to exercise, they can be a game changer, persuading them that activity really is fun!

And if anyone in the family suffers from conditions such as arthritis, a plunge pool is an easy and enjoyable way to soothe the aches and pains away.

What’s more, plunge pools make a value for money addition to your home, requiring less water, cleaning products and heating than a regular size pool.

Why do they look good?

Small and perfectly formed, plunge pools make the most of the space you have, providing a beautiful focal point in your backyard.

If you go for a round plunge pool, you can create an infinite number of classic looks for your backyard. Surrounded by decking, it can become the ultimate place to unwind with family and friends on lazy summer days. Alternatively, plant the surrounding area with lush, green foliage such as bird of paradise, Hawaiian hibiscus and Martha Washington geraniums. Make sure that they will withstand the humid conditions and occasional splashes from chlorinated water. Plan carefully, and you can create a tropical hideaway.

For those who favour a more contemporary look, square plunge pool designs are ideal. Surrounding tiling in a cool white shade will bring a fresh look to your backyard, transforming it into a Mediterranean paradise. Or, a clever use of glass screens will give it that luxe look that you would find in a five-star resort. You really don’t need heaps of space to give your backyard the “X factor”!

Plunge pool ideas – landscaping

Landscaping around your small pool or plunge pool will give it the essential finishing touches to transform your backyard into a magical, yet practical environment.

When planning your backyard landscaping, think first of all about the area immediately surrounding the pool. Decking gives a casual, relaxed vibe, ideal for entertaining, while quality tiles in light, bright colours will give your pool area a fresh, contemporary look.

You can add safety features such as railing and gates that blend seamlessly with your environment, giving you complete peace of mind, especially if you have young children at home, or visiting your property on a regular basis.

Trees, plants and flowers in your pool area can create vital shade, colour and a natural, relaxing ambience. Choose your plant varieties wisely, looking out for species that won’t be affected by splashes from pool chemicals. Some examples are banana trees, which give a real tropical feel, and ornamental grasses and Egyptian papyrus, which will add structure and drama to your pool area.

A final tip: try to avoid trees or plants which will shed their leaves into your plunge pool, giving you a constant clean-up job!

Small courtyard ideas

A small courtyard garden can be brimming with design features to create a tranquil oasis– a space that will be the envy of your friends and neighbours.

In fact, courtyard spaces are ideal for plunge pools, providing the perfect ambience and setting.

Small courtyard designs can easily accommodate a small pool, such as a plunge pool, which given their compact size doesn’t have to take up the entire area. You have several options for fitting your plunge pool into your courtyard. To make a bold statement, a circular pool in the centre of your space will make a real impact.

Or you can position a square pool in a corner of your courtyard, creating the impression of a private retreat or oasis. Adding some leafy plants in the area will add to this feeling of an exclusive, tranquil place.

There are lots of different looks you can experiment with, and size doesn’t have to be an issue. Create a vibrant Moroccan look with brightly-coloured walls surrounding your pool area, colourful tiles, and plants in earthenware pots. For a magical, relaxing space, dress your plunge pool area with candles or fairy lights to create a special atmosphere.

Plunge pool cost

Given plunge pools’ compact size and ease of instalment, fulfilling your dream of enjoying a plunge pool in your backyard or courtyard could be more affordable than you think.

When you draw up your budget, think about the various considerations such as the material your pool will be made from.

You may also want to add to your budget extras, such as landscaping or decking, and don’t forget all the necessary safety features.

As we’ve seen before, the joy of a fibreglass pool is that the shell is delivered ready to install, cutting right down on the construction work required for in-ground pools, making it a convenient option for many.

Thinking of your new plunge pool project?

Make sure you check out your local council approval requirement, as well as if there are any preservation orders on trees that will need to be cleared before you start work. You can also find out whether any cables or pipes run under your planned pool area by consulting your site map.

Courtyard designs Melbourne

If you live in the Melbourne area, you have the perfect climate to enjoy a beautiful courtyard design with plunge pool all year round, or simply to sit around and take in the relaxing atmosphere on cooler days. Think about installing a heating system so you can enjoy your pool even in less summery weather.

Check out the details on safety standards for swimming pools in Melbourne here before you embark on your dream project.

Then all that remains is for you to contact your local authorised Compass Pools Australia pool builder, who will be able to efficiently install your above ground pool with minimum hassle. If you are from the Geelong area, be sure to talk to Gordon Ave Pools & Spas.

Courtyard designs Sydney

Sydney offers a warm and pleasant climate nearly all year round, and any backyard would benefit from a stunning courtyard design complete with plunge pool. Because there is plenty of sunshine, the most efficient way of heating your pool in the cooler months is with solar heating, so you may want to factor this into your budget.

Find out about the safety standards regarding pool fencing and gating for the Sydney area before you start. You can find out the details here.

The final piece of the jigsaw is to contact your local authorised Compass Pools Australia pool builder in Sydney North or Sydney South, who will start making your pool dream a reality.

Courtyard designs Brisbane

Brisbane’s sultry climate makes it an ideal location to install a striking courtyard design with a plunge pool in your backyard. With Brisbane’s all-year-round balmy temperatures and plenty of sunshine, there is no greater addition to your home than a stylish and practical plunge pool.

You will need to be fully aware of safety regulations before you start your project, which you can find here.

Now you’re ready to contact your local authorised Compass Pools Australia pool builder, who will get your above ground pool up and running in no time!

The post Plunge pools: small is beautiful appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Above ground pools available for sale come in a variety of designs, shapes and sizes, and can be accommodated even in smaller backyards or on uneven terrain, so are the ideal choice for many people.

Why are above ground pools popular?

Above ground swimming pools offer an alternative to in-ground pools, which may be difficult to install in some backyards because of access or the type of ground you have.

This makes them a relatively straightforward way to transform your backyard–and even your lifestyle.

Quality is uncompromised. At Compass Pools, we combine value for your money with durability and design excellence, allowing you to achieve your dream of enjoying your very own pool.

They are suitable for all different types of terrain, whether it’s rocky, uneven or sloping, and are also great for smaller gardens that can’t accommodate a conventional in-ground pool.

Above ground pools are versatile, coming in a variety of shapes, sizes and crafted from different materials such as concrete or fibreglass.
Just like in-ground pools, above ground pools can be heated to make swimming all year round a pleasure. You can also use your pool as an above ground spa – somewhere to go and relax and soothe away your stresses and strains.

Safety features such as fencing and gates that lock to keep your little ones safe can be added. (Note that children should be supervised around swimming pools at all times.)

It’s good to know as well that above ground pools are safer simply because of their higher entry points.

A bonus is that depending on the materials used for their shell, they are simple to maintain and require fewer chemicals than an in-ground pool.

Types of above ground pools

Above ground pools are commonly made from fibreglass, but you can also install an above ground concrete pool, a pool made from plastic, rubber or vinyl, or even an upcycled shipping container!

More about plastic, rubber and vinyl pools

There are many different types of these pools, ranging from inflatable pools, up to those with metal frames, to pools with reinforced plastic or vinyl shells for durability. These can often be an affordable solution, are usually straightforward to set up, and you can take them with you if you move house. However, although they come with repair kits, they tend not to be the most durable pool available, and you need to take great care not to tear their lining. Generally speaking, you will need to replace the liner once every five to seven years.

More about fibreglass pools

A fibreglass above ground pool shell provides a sturdy and durable basis for a lifetime of swimming pleasure. Working with high-quality manufacturers such as Compass Pools means you will have access to a unique and exclusive technology called Maxi Rib, providing appropriate support for the ceramic fibreglass shell on any terrain. Its rib-like structure offers support to allow the pool to be fixed above ground level on a concrete platform or directly on the ground. The pool can then be installed on uneven or sloping sites.

And because the shell is manufactured off-site and delivered to you ready to install, it can be set up for use relatively quickly compared to in-ground pools.

While the shell will be pre-designed, you may not have as much ability to customise them as concrete pools which are constructed on site. However, many fibreglass shells come in a range of shapes and sizes, and landscaping allows you to add individual touches.

Another major consideration is hygiene. Fibreglass pools have an algae- and bacteria-resistant surface, making cleaning easy. This means they don’t need as many chemicals to keep them clean, which makes for a more comfortable swimming environment, particularly if you or a family member has sensitive skin.

It’s also good to know that fibreglass pools don’t need repainting or resurfacing, so they are ideal for busy families.

More about Maxi Rib technology

The Maxi Rib technology we offer at Compass Pools surrounds the shell of your pool in a unique rib-like structure, customised to fit the shape of your backyard. These ribs hold the whole pool structure and contents securely in place, which means any kind of land can accommodate a pool – even if you live on the side of a hill or have a yearning for a rooftop pool!

This innovation also means that pools built with Maxi Rib technology can withstand all kinds of weather and wear and tear, and will serve you reliably year after year.

This technology opens up the possibility of installing an affordable pool on almost any kind of site, making what used to be a dream for many people a reality.

What about concrete pools?

The great advantage of concrete pools is that they are made on site, so you will have the chance to offer your input into their design. This is great news if your backyard is an unconventional shape and you need to customise your pool’s design to make it fit.

Because of the nature of their construction, installing them is a longer process than pre-made fibreglass pools, and they will need to be surfaced with tiling or pebbles once construction is complete.

Due to their porous nature, above ground concrete pools are more susceptible to bacteria and algae, so they will need diligent cleaning and more chemicals.

Is it true that above ground pools can be made from shipping containers?

Yes, it’s absolutely true and not surprising when you consider that their long and narrow shape lends itself perfectly to swimming pools!

Steel shipping containers require preparation before they are ready to be transformed. They are cleaned out and rust-proofed, then lined with steel, vinyl or a fibreglass shell.

They are popular in major urban areas such as Melbourne and Brisbane, where space is at a premium.

They can be installed much like the fibreglass shells by fixing them on an above-ground platform.

On the downside, they come in a choice of only two lengths – six or 12 metres – but only one width. And of course, just one shape – a long rectangle. If you’re into swimming laps, this is ideal, but many families may wish for greater flexibility in design.

Because they are not that easy to customise and resemble a big box, you can use clever landscaping to make their appearance more attractive.

What’s great about them is that they can be transported with relatively little hassle, so if you move house you can take your pool with you!

Why would an above ground pool work for us?

As we’ve already seen, above ground pools open up a whole world of possibility to potential pool owners.

They come into their own on difficult sites. For example, if your outside space is on a slope or hillside, or particularly uneven terrain, above ground pools are ideal. These factors are no barrier to an above ground pool. With the Maxi Rib fibreglass technology, you can rest assured that it will fit securely on your site, no matter the geography or weather.

So you thought an infinity pool was the preserve of the super wealthy? Think again! The versatility of fibreglass above ground pools means that an infinity pool can be created with the minimum of fuss in your backyard.

And even if you have a tiny backyard, you might be surprised at how well above ground swimming pools can fit right in. Your pool contractor will be able to advise on how to use landscaping and positioning to make the most of your compact space.

Why do they look good?

Above ground pools can bring a vibrant, luxurious look to any kind of backyard – big, small, uneven or awkward-sized!

While the shells come in standard designs, clever landscaping can bring a variety of looks to your pool along with careful choice of plants, accessories and poolside furniture. So, you can make your above ground pool the stand-out feature of your backyard, or let it blend into the background as a natural extension of your outside environment.

You can also add your own personal touch by choosing external steps, pool heating, water management system, and lighting in a range of colours.

Even a simple design will bring the wow factor to your backyard and completely change how it looks and feels. But if you want to really pull out all the stops, you can even go for an infinity pool. This type of above ground pool has “disappearing edges” which create the illusion of the water having no boundary and flowing seamlessly into the ocean or sky, and are a truly stunning addition to any backyard.

Above ground pool ideas – landscaping

A key design tip is to make your above ground pool the focal point of your backyard, and landscape around it, creating an attractive and practical space.

Landscaping incorporates many elements: decking and railing, safety features such as locking gates and the inclusion of plants, trees and flowers which can provide shade or simply a beautiful, natural backdrop.

Bear in mind that the plants immediately surrounding your pool should be able to tolerate pool-cleaning chemicals, as these will be present in the surrounding soil.

So, go for specimens such as peach-leaved bellflower, swamp daisy, pineapple sage and ajuga for their hardiness and tolerance.

If you want to create a screening effect, try olive trees, bay laurel or coastal banksia.

You can use rocks placed artfully around the pool to emphasise a rustic look or use spotlights to create a more contemporary vibe.

Consider, too, whether you want an entertaining space around your pool for relaxing and enjoying time with family and friends. Paving and decking can be great if you dream of barbeques by the pool and lazy days just dipping in and out.

Above ground pool prices

The cost of installing an above ground pool can vary according to what type you choose. The most affordable sort of above ground pool tends to be the rubber, vinyl or plastic pool, although we have seen earlier on that, within this category, there is in fact also a spectrum of prices, and how much you pay will depend on whether you opt for a basic inflatable pool, or one reinforced with a metal frame or with a more durable liner.

Heading further up the budget scale, higher quality container pools, for example reinforced shipping container pools, are next, followed by self-standing fibreglass pools. Fibreglass pools with Maxi Rib technology are a little more costly.

If you’re pulling out all the stops with an infinity pool, this is likely to be the most expensive option due to the need for a concealed pool and the extra work required.

There are several other factors to take into consideration when planning your budget. What size and design are you hoping for? How easy is it for contractors to get to your backyard to install it? All these will have some influence on the final price of your pool.

You’ll also need to consider what optional extras you want with your pool – decking or landscaping around the pool to enjoy it to its full capacity, perhaps, or extra lighting, or even a pool with an infinity edge.

As mentioned earlier, pools with a fibreglass shell are generally cheaper and more straightforward to install than concrete pools, so that is another consideration to take into account.

With an above ground pool for every budget and type of backyard, the possibility of having your very own swimming pool is a reality, not just a far-off dream!

What next?

Make sure you check out your local council approval requirements, as well as whether there are any preservation orders on trees that will need to be cleared before you start work. You can also find out whether any cables or pipes run under your planned pool area by consulting your site map.

Above ground pools Melbourne

If you live in the Melbourne area, you have the perfect climate to enjoy an above ground pool all year round, or simply to sit around and take in the relaxing atmosphere on cooler days. Think about installing a heating system, so you can enjoy your pool even when the weather is less summery.

Check out the details on safety standards for swimming pools in Melbourne here before you embark on your dream project.

Then all that remains is for you to contact your local authorised Compass Pools dealer, who will be able to efficiently install your above ground pool with the minimum of hassle.

Compass Pools Melbourne are specialists in constructing fibreglass swimming pools in the Greater Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula, Latrobe Valley Gippsland areas.

Gordon Ave Pools & Spas install swimming pools in Geelong, Melbourne’s Western suburbs and along the Surf Coast and Great Ocean Road.

Above ground pools Sydney

Sydney offers a warm and pleasant climate nearly all year round, and any backyard in the area will benefit from an above ground pool. Because there is plenty of sunshine, the most efficient way of heating your pool in the cooler months is with solar heating, so you may want to factor this into your budget.

Find out about the safety standards regarding pool fencing and gating for the Sydney area before you start. You can find out the details here.

The final piece of the jigsaw is to contact your local authorised Compass Pools Australia pool builder, who will start making your pool dream a reality.

For Sydney North the Compass Sales Centre North Sydney and Central Coast are your local swimming pool professionals.

For Sydney South try Local Pools and Spas.

Above ground pools Brisbane

Brisbane’s sultry climate makes it an ideal location to install an above ground pool in your backyard. Blessed with all-year-round balmy temperatures and plenty of sunshine, there is no greater addition to your home than a stylish and practical above ground pool.

You will need to be fully aware of safety regulations before you start your project, which you can find here.

Now you’re ready to contact your local authorised Compass Pools Australia pool builder for Brisbane to get your above ground pool up and running in no time!

The post All about above ground pools appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Shipping Container Pools

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Alternative: Express Pools

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Container Pools: Pros and Cons

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Shipping Container Pools

Alternative: Express Pools

Pros and Cons of Container Pools

Shipping Container Pools Are Popular

But are they the best solution?

The trend for shipping container pools in Australia is sweeping the nation. These above-ground swimming pools made from upcycled shipping containers are quite popular, due to their convenience and relatively affordable price tags.

The Rise of Shipping Container Pools

When introduced to the market several years ago, shipping container pools captivated the imagination of the nation. The idea of being able install a pool in the backyard with little fuss and construction is certainly appealing.

The Shipping Container Pools Concept

The idea for shipping container pools came from re-purposing shipping containers when they are no longer used for sea transportation. Because shipping containers are long and rectangular in shape they lend themselves well to being used as the framework for smaller backyard swimming pools.

To put it simply, decommissioned shipping containers are rust treated, painted and then lined using a fibreglass pool shell or vinyl liner to create a free-standing swimming pool that can be installed above the ground.

Sydney Shipping Container Pools

The world first saw shipping container pools in Sydney, where the climate is ideal for swimming but land is at a premium. Property owners needed compact swimming pools which could fit easily into small backyards. Once the concept was successful in Sydney, it then spread across Australia, where we now see large numbers of shipping container pools in Brisbane, Melbourne and other major cities. Their compact size and easy installation make them ideal for highly populated areas where property does not always come with a lot of land. However, they are also gaining popularity in more rural areas, thanks to their newfound fashionable status.

Is a Container Pool the Right Choice for You?

And are there any alternatives which might better suit your needs? Before we tell you everything you need to know about Aussie container pools, we’ll proudly present you a shipping container pool alternative – the top quality and fantastic looking Express Pools by Compass Pools Australia.

DISCOVER EXPRESS POOLS

All the Benefits of an Instant Pool without the Pitfalls of a Shipping Container Pool

Compass Express Pools

Looking for an instant pool in your backyard that requires minimal site works? The Compass Express range is the pinnacle of fibreglass technology. These lightweight, portable pools arrive plumbed and ready for swimming from the day the are delivered. Express Pools are designed to last a lifetime with no risk of steel corrosion, no wooden framework, and no heavy concrete! Ask your Compass Pools dealer how the Compass Express range also saves you thousands on installation and landscaping costs when compared to shipping container pools and concrete plunge pool alternatives.

Main Features:

• A unique freestanding fibreglass pool
• Pre-fabricated for faster installations
• Lightweight and easy to transport
• Great looking pool colours
• Attach cladding directly to the pool frame to create your preferred exterior finish
• Can be installed partially in-ground (up to 600mm)

Discover

The Express Pool Shapes

Choose Your

• Relax Pool Range
• Plunge Pool Range
• Lap Pool Range
• Refresh Range
• Spa Range

Relax Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL (LxWxH)
6 with beach	6.0m x 2.03m x 1.36m	6.72m x 2.33m x 1.39m
5.2	4.99m x 2.03m x 1.36m	5.70m x 2.33m x 1.39m
4	3.75m x 2.03m x 1.36m	4.47m x 2.33m x 1.39m

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Inspirations Gallery

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about our Relax Express Pool Range

Plunge Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
3.8	3.67m x 1.93m x 1.21m	4.37m x 2.22m x 1.24m
2.8	2.67m x 1.93m x 1.21m	3.37m x 2.22m x 1.24m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

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about our Plunge Express Pool Range

Lap Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
10.0	10m x 2.5m x 1.46m	10.81m x 3.03m x 1.5m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

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about our Lap Express Pool Range

Refresh Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
6.1 Max	5.88m x 2.75m x 1.46m	6.60m x 3.05m x 1.49m
6.1	5.79m x 2.19m x 1.41m	6.50m x 2.49m x 1.44m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

ENQUIRE NOW

Express Pool Shape

about our Refresh Express Pool Range

Spa Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
XT Spa	2.5m x 1.5m x 1.14m	2.83m x 2.12m x 1.14m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Express Pool Spa Range

Relax Pool Range

Relax Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL (LxWxH)
6 with beach	6.0m x 2.03m x 1.36m	6.72m x 2.33m x 1.39m
5.2	4.99m x 2.03m x 1.36m	5.70m x 2.33m x 1.39m
4	3.75m x 2.03m x 1.36m	4.47m x 2.33m x 1.39m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Relax Express Pool Range

Plunge Pool Range

Plunge Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
3.8	3.67m x 1.93m x 1.21m	4.37m x 2.22m x 1.24m
2.8	2.67m x 1.93m x 1.21m	3.37m x 2.22m x 1.24m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Plunge Express Pool Range

Lap Pool Range

Lap Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
10.0	10m x 2.5m x 1.46m	10.81m x 3.03m x 1.5m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Lap Express Pool Range

Refresh Range

Refresh Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
6.1 Max	5.88m x 2.75m x 1.46m	6.60m x 3.05m x 1.49m
6.1	5.79m x 2.19m x 1.41m	6.50m x 2.49m x 1.44m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

ENQUIRE NOW

Express Pool Shape

about our Refresh Express Pool Range

Spa Range

Spa Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
XT Spa	2.5m x 1.5m x 1.14m	2.83m x 2.12m x 1.14m

WordPress Data Table

Inspirations Gallery

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Express Pool Spa Range

• Relax Pool Range
• Plunge Pool Range
• Lap Pool Range
• Spa Range

Relax Pool Range

Relax Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL (LxWxH)
6 with beach	6.0m x 2.03m x 1.36m	6.72m x 2.33m x 1.39m
5.2	4.99m x 2.03m x 1.36m	5.70m x 2.33m x 1.39m
4	3.75m x 2.03m x 1.36m	4.47m x 2.33m x 1.39m

WordPress Data Table

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Relax Express Pool Range

Plunge Pool Range

Plunge Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
3.8	3.67m x 1.93m x 1.21m	4.37m x 2.22m x 1.24m
2.8	2.67m x 1.93m x 1.21m	3.37m x 2.22m x 1.24m

WordPress Data Table

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Relax Express Pool Range

Lap Pool Range

Lap Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
10.0	10m x 2.5m x 1.46m	10.81m x 3.03m x 1.5m

WordPress Data Table

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Relax Express Pool Range

Spa Range

Spa Range

MODEL	INTERNAL (LxWxH)	EXTERNAL CLADDED (LxWxH)
XT Spa	2.5m x 1.5m x 1.14m	2.83m x 2.12m x 1.14m

WordPress Data Table

ENQUIRE NOW

about our Relax Express Pool Range

Pros and Cons of Shipping Container Pools

By Type/Intended Use

Container Pool Advantages

Price

One of the most attractive elements of shipping container pools is the relatively low cost. The average container pool price is between $20,000 and $30,000, so they are well within reach for many homeowners. You can purchase a container pool for as little as $6,000, but be warned – the build quality may not be up to the standard you need for a large investment like a swimming pool, which has to last for many years.

Instant Installation

The other main advantage of the container pool is that it can be installed and used almost instantly. As shipping container pools are above-ground pools, no excavation work is required on your property. The pool simply needs a level surface to sit on, so you do not have to suffer the disruption to your lifestyle that goes with having an in-ground pool installed.

Complete Pool Kit

Additionally, a container pool comes as a complete kit, complete with filtration system and even lighting, so it simply needs to be connected to an electricity supply and then it can be filled and used straight away. Pool builders tend to get booked up quickly over the summer, so if you want an in-ground pool built, you may have to wait months before the work can even begin. As a container pool does not require any building work, it is the ideal, speedy solution for this time of year.

Finally, shipping container pools can easily be transported by truck, so if you ever decide to move home, you can take your pool with you and continue to enjoy it at your new property.

Container Pool Disadvantages

With so many advantages, a container pool might look like the ideal solution for you. However, they do have a number of disadvantages which need to be pointed out.

Limited Choice

Firstly, shipping container pools do not offer a lot of choice, as their shape is restricted to that of a shipping container. They are usually available in a choice of two lengths, either six metres or 12 metres, but the width is the same on every model. This means they might not be suitable for all shapes and sizes of backyard.

Restrictive Shape

The shape of the container pool can also be restrictive in other ways. It might be perfect for swimming laps, but it is not necessarily the best solution for families, who need more space if they want to play games in the water with the kids.

Inability to Customise

The appearance is also an issue here. Shipping container pools are difficult to customise as, ultimately, they all look like shipping containers – long rectangular boxes made of corrugated steel. The only customisation options available involve cutting windows into the sides, or painting the container in a different colour, neither of which is particularly satisfactory when you are trying to create a stylish look for your property. For a shipping container pool to look good, it tends to need some really clever landscaping around it to disguise the more unsightly elements of its appearance.

GET A FREE QUOTE ON EXPRESS POOLS

it’s easy to request a quote on your new Express Pool
the perfect container pool alternative!

Exploring the Container Pool Alternative

Get to Know Express Pools Closer

EXPRESS POOL SHAPESOUR DIFFERENCE

Exploring the Container Pool Alternative

Get to Know Express Pools Closer

EXPRESS POOL SHAPES

EXPRESS POOL DIFFERENCE

Why Express Pools Are So Popular

More About Express Pools

• They offer you more choice: Express pools can be customised to include windows, swim jets spa jets and so much more. Most of these things (ex windows) can be added after purchase because the fibreglass shell can be easily access for retrofitting jets etc.
• More freedom with exterior finishes: Express pools can have your choice off cladding fit directly to the exterior support frame. You are not limited to a shipping container exterior or specific cladding option. You can literally do whatever you want.
• Lower landscaping costs: Decking frames can be attached directly to the pool structure which dramatically reduces decking material costs and labour when surrounding the pool with decks.
• Lower crane costs: Express pools are approx. half the weight of container pools and about 8t less than concrete plunge pools which makes them far cheaper to crane into place.
• Better colour choices: Express pools are made but one of Australia’s leading pool manufacturers who have awesome colour technology and superior fiberglass pool shells.
• Better warranties: The fibreglass interior of every Express Pool is made by Compass Pools Australia and backed by our triple warranty.

TALK TO US ABOUT EXPRESS POOLS

Would you like an instant, self-standing fibreglass pool?
Express Pool might be the solution!

The post Shipping Container Pools: Introducing this new swimming pool trend and alternatives appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Here we take a look at some of the options available to you when it comes to pools in Adelaide, some of the important issues you need to think about, and how Compass Pools can help you achieve the dream swimming pool you always wanted.

The health benefits of having your own pool

A pool is a large investment, but it is worthwhile. By choosing a quality pool, you are purchasing an asset which will last a lifetime, and bring you plenty of enjoyment.

For a start, the health benefits of swimming are well-known. It is one of the most effective forms of exercise, as it improves your cardiovascular health as well as using practically every muscle in the body. Because of this, it is excellent for improving your overall level of fitness, toning up and staying in shape.

Swimming is also excellent for mental health, as spending time in the water is proven to assist with relaxation and stress relief, lowering anxiety levels and helping you sleep better at night. This improves your sense of wellbeing and enables you to cope more effectively with the stresses of daily life.

By having your own backyard pool in Adelaide, you will be more motivated to enjoy the water on a regular basis, as you can swim and relax in comfort and privacy on your own property.

Pools in Adelaide are great for socialising

A pool is also a great social space, as it gives you the opportunity to spend more time with family and friends by having pool parties and barbeques at the poolside. Having a beautiful outdoor entertaining space will encourage you to host more events in that gorgeous Adelaide climate, and help you strengthen bonds with the people you care about.

Pools are also ideal for spending quality time with your immediate family, as you can all enjoy the water together, making long-lasting memories for yourself, your partner and the kids. Swimming is a safe, healthy and fun way for you to all spend time together as often as possible.

A pool is a stunning design feature

A swimming pool makes a beautiful centrepiece to your backyard. By making the pool the main focus of your outdoor space, and planning the rest of your landscaping around it, you can create a stunning and highly functional backyard design which you will enjoy looking out at, and spending time in, each and every day.

A well-designed and maintained backyard is something that attracts potential home buyers, especially if a swimming pool is part of the package. This means that you will increase the value of your home and achieve a higher sale price for your property if you ever move on.

The different types of swimming pools in Adelaide

Adelaide homeowners have a number of choices when it comes to choosing a swimming pool. The type of pool you choose should depend on a number of elements:

• Your budget
• Your usage needs
• The size and shape of your backyard

There are pools available to suit everyone, with three main materials dominating the market: concrete, fibreglass and vinyl-liner.

1. Concrete pools

Concrete pools are the most expensive type of pools, as they cannot be prefabricated. Instead, they have to be built from scratch in your backyard, a process which is labour-intensive and can take weeks or even months to complete. Because of this, the cost of a concrete pool is considerably higher than that of other swimming pool types.

Concrete has been used to build pools in Adelaide for many decades, so its strength and durability are tried and tested. You can rely on a concrete pool for the rest of your life, although it might need retiling or repainting at some stage.

The main advantage of concrete, however, is that it can be moulded into any shape you choose. This means that if you have a clear vision for how you want your pool to look, and you have not found an off-the-shelf solution to suit you, you can achieve your dream pool by having it made from concrete.

2. Fibreglass pools

The popularity of fibreglass pools in Adelaide is easy to explain. They are as strong and durable as concrete pools, able to withstand even the most extreme weather conditions and heavy usage, but at a far lower price. This is because fibreglass pool shells are pre-made in factories in a range of designs and sizes, so when you choose your pool, it can simply be delivered to your home, instead of having to be built from scratch. As a result, a fibreglass pool can be installed and ready to use within a matter of days.

Compass Pools produces a wide range of fibreglass pool shells which can be installed as above-ground or as in-ground pools at your Adelaide, property or even installed partially in and partially above ground if you have an unusual-shaped or sloping backyard.

3. Vinyl-liner pools

Vinyl-liner pools are the most budget-friendly when it comes to initial outlay, but they can end up costing more than you think. These pools are popular as above ground pools in Adelaide, but they can be installed in-ground at extra cost if required.

While the price tag may initially make a vinyl-liner pool look attractive, it is important to be aware of the risks involved. The linings are not particularly strong, so they can easily tear, especially if the pool is used often. This means you can end up spending more than you bargained for on pool repairs, and you will have to replace the liner completely every five to ten years, which can also be costly. However, if you are looking for a basic pool which you can enjoy occasionally, a vinyl-liner pool could be the right choice for you.

Compass Pools provide top-quality fibreglass pools in Adelaide

Whether you are looking for an above-ground or in-ground pool in Adelaide, Compass Pools can provide you with a fibreglass pool which will meet all your needs. From small plunge pools, ideal for relaxation, to large family pools, and lap pools designed for improving your fitness, our range caters for all needs and tastes.

Our pool shells are pre-made in a range of different sizes and designs, making them easy to install in your backyard, but they can also be personalised to suit your tastes and the style of your property, with a range of different Bi-Luminite and Vivid colour choices, which will maintain their appearance even through exposure to sunlight and pool cleaning chemicals.

Compass Pools also offer unique advantages when it comes to maintenance. Our exclusive Vantage self-cleaning system drastically cuts down on the amounts of time and chemicals it takes to keep your pool clean and healthy, leaving you with more free time to enjoy in the water.

Find out more about building a pool in Adelaide

If you are interested in having your own swimming pool in Adelaide, you can find out everything you need to know from our trusted pool builders, Outside Developments. They stock the entire Compass Pools range, and have enjoyed a great working relationship with us.

Whatever your swimming pool requirements, they will be happy to offer you all the assistance and guidance you need. You can call their expert team on 0432 336 536.

The post Swimming Pools in Adelaide: Why your own swimming pool is always a great idea appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Here we take a look at the many factors that make rectangular pools are so popular, and how the Compass Pools range is leading the way when it comes to this iconic swimming pool shape.

1. They are incredibly easy to swim in

It may seem obvious, but a rectangular pool offers the perfect shape for swimming. It offers a long, unimpeded stretch of water which is ideal for doing laps, and it is no coincidence that Olympic swimming pools are always rectangular in shape.

One of the main advantages of having your own backyard pool is that it offers a private place where you can improve your health and fitness. Swimming laps is the ideal way to achieve this, as swimming is one of the best forms of exercise you can do, toning almost every muscle in the body and improving your cardiovascular health in the process. In order to get the full benefit of this exercise, you need an expanse of water which allows you to swim laps. There is no pool shape more suited to this than the rectangle.

2. They are also ideal for relaxation

Another benefit of having your own swimming pool is that it gives you a secluded place to relax in comfort on your own property. There is nothing more refreshing than taking a dip in the pool at the end of a difficult day, and spending time in the water has been proven to relieve stress and anxiety, making your day-to-day life easier to deal with and increasing your general sense of wellbeing.

While this can be achieved in pools of all different shapes and sizes, rectangle pools are particularly suited to relaxation, as it is extremely easy to design large, comfortable seating areas around these pools. This offers you a perfect spot to enjoy the water when you don’t feel like swimming.

3. They are a practical choice for families

Choosing a family pool can be particularly difficult, as you have a variety of different needs to take into account. You need a pool which offers enough space for the whole family to swim together and play games in the water. A rectangle pool is perfect for sports such as water volleyball, which the whole family can enjoy, reinforcing your bond and giving you the ideal way to spend quality time together.

However, when you are looking for a family pool, the most important consideration of all has to be safety. Again, rectangle pools score extremely highly here. As their shape is open, with no shady corners or hidden areas, it makes it much easier to supervise the kids and ensure that they are enjoying the water safely.

In addition, all private pools in Australia must comply with Australian Standard 1926, which specifies that your pool has to be fenced on all sides, making it safer for children. While this is possible with other shapes of pool, it is much easier to build a level fence around a rectangle pool, making your pool installation easier.

4. They coordinate well with most properties

When you are having your own backyard pool built, it is important that the design of the pool suits the style of your home. Achieving a good match of styles will enable you to create a cohesive and unified design for the whole of your property. This looks much more stylish and gives the impression of a well-cared for property, which is attractive to potential home buyers. By doing this, you can add value to your home and achieve a higher sale price if you ever decide to move.

Some homeowners have strong views about pool shapes, and do not want a conventional type of pool. This is perfectly fine, as your pool should reflect your personal tastes and preferences every bit as much as the rest of your property does. But if you are looking for a pool shape which will coordinate with the widest variety of architectural styles, the rectangle pool is the obvious choice. It has the clean lines and streamlined shape to suit modern homes, while still being classic enough to coordinate well with more traditional properties. It is very difficult to go wrong with a rectangle pool.

5. They are easy to landscape around

Landscaping is an important consideration when choosing to have a backyard pool installed. Ultimately, this will have a huge impact on how good your pool looks once it is finished, as well as determining the level of functionality for your backyard.

The first thing to establish is the right positioning for your pool. It needs to look good from all angles, when viewed from both outside and inside the home. You will be looking at your pool for many years to come, so it is essential that it provides you with an attractive view which will encourage you to venture outdoors and take full advantage of the pool.

A rectangular pool is the easiest type of pool to position. As houses are almost universally built on straight lines, a rectangle pool will automatically look good whether it is positioned close to the house or parallel to it at a further distance away. Additionally, a rectangle is a standard shape, so it is easier to achieve a look which is attractive when viewed from every vantage point.

Your landscaping should also make the best use of the remaining space in your backyard, as you also need to consider other elements of your outdoor lifestyle. With a rectangular pool, this is easier to do, as the regular shape makes it easier to plan the rest of your backyard design, enabling you to create space for socialising and relaxing at the poolside while also taking full advantage of the other areas of your backyard.

Attractive and highly functional landscaping is essential if you want to add maximum value to your home. A rectangular pool enables you to create a cohesive flow which looks stunning while still offering all the practicality you need to enjoy an active and fulfilling life outdoors.

6. They make the best infinity pools

The infinity pool is a major swimming pool trend at present, and is viewed as the ultimate in luxury. These beautiful pools have a “disappearing edge” so it looks as if the water is simply falling away. An infinity pool can offer beautiful views over the surrounding area, whether this is a rural landscape or a bustling city. It is also an extremely peaceful way to enjoy the water, making you feel as if you are directly part of your surroundings, unimpeded by barriers.

Rectangle pools are the best choice for an infinity pool by a long way. The long, straight design is ideal for creating a disappearing edge, enabling you to feel like a part of nature as you swim, and becoming the envy of your friends with the most luxurious pool in the neighbourhood!

Rectangle pools in the Compass Pools range

At Compass Pools Australia, we offer a wide range of fibreglass swimming pool designs to suit all tastes and usage needs. However, it is no surprise that many of our top sellers are rectangular pools.

The Contemporary is a rectangular family pool which is available in three different sizes to suit most backyards. It offers plenty of space for swimming and games, and is ideal for families with kids, as it will continue to meet your needs as your family grows. With chic, clean lines and a wide choice of pool colours available, the Contemporary is designed to suit the vast majority of property styles.

The X-Trainer is an extremely popular lap pool. Its long, narrow rectangular shape is perfect for swimming laps, as it offers a clear water corridor with nothing getting in the way. However, as it is available in different lengths and widths, the X-Trainer can also be a great pool for families.

If you are looking for a smaller rectangle pool, you might want to consider our Plunge pool range. These are compact pools which are deeper than regular pools, so they are ideal for relaxation, as they give you an immersive experience perfect for creating calm and relieving stress.

All of our rectangular pools come with safety features such as seating areas and non-slip surfaces, and they can easily be customised with a wide range of pool colours available. Thanks to their strong ceramic cores, they are also built to withstand all climate conditions and usage demands, and will last a lifetime.

If you would like more information about the rectangle pools we offer, please contact us. Our team will be happy to assist you.

The post Rectangular pools: Why the rectangle is still the perfect swimming pool shape appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.