Winter Hot Tub Safety: 5 Tips for Cozy Cold-Weather Soaks

Steam rising, cold air on your cheeks, hot bubbles everywhere else. A soak in your hot tub in winter might be the best one all year. But cold weather throws a few curveballs, like icy covers, slippery patios, and that brutal dash back inside. Whether you have an in-ground spa or a hot tub, these […]
Is a Spa Worth Adding to Your Pool? 7 Health Benefits of a Spa

Planning a pool and wondering if a spa is worth it? Short answer: yes, especially if stress, sore muscles or restless nights are part of your life. The health benefits of a spa start the second you sink into that warm water. Here’s what a spa can do for you, plus what to know before […]
Add a Baja Shelf to an Existing Swimming Pool During a Remodel

—Yes, you can include this relaxing, functional feature during a major renovation A Baja shelf on a swimming pool delivers a big win for both relaxation and convenience. And for existing pool owners, the good news is that you can add this handy, attractive feature during a major pool renovation.
What is a Swim-Up Pool Bar?—and How to Add One to Your Backyard

—Raise the “bar” on outdoor entertaining by bringing the resort experience home The first time people discover the upscale delight of enjoying a cool beverage in a swimming pool swim-up bar is often when they’re vacationing at an exotic hotel. Relaxing on a barstool built under the water with a handy countertop to place your […]
Lap Pool Designs: 10 Creative, Outside-the-Box Examples – Photos

—Inspiring style for your new inground pool beyond a standard rectangle Think that a backyard lap pool comes in only one form—a traditional rectangle? Well, think again: As long as your pool’s overall shape includes a straight, clear swimming lane that avoids steps, spas, and other design features, you don’t have to build a long […]
Swimming Pool Diving Boards: Choosing the Best Kind for Your Needs – Part 2

—Understanding how diving boards, platforms, and flexible jump boards each provide unique benefits Note: This is the second article in a two-part series on diving boards. For part 1, “Swimming Pool Diving Boards: Consider Safety, Usage, and Backyard Size,” click here. After considering the important issues of diving safety, board usage, backyard size, and maximizing […]
Swimming Pool Diving Boards: Consider Safety, Usage, and Backyard Size

—Make an educated decision about building a diving pool Note: This is the first article in a two-part series on diving boards. When buying or remodeling a swimming pool, one important consideration is whether or not to include a diving board. This decision should be a calculated choice based on your pool design, backyard space, […]
Custom Inground Spas: Stand-alone designs deliver style and enjoyment

—No room for a pool? A spa can serve as the centerpiece of your backyard retreat A soak in warm, bubbly spa water can be a delight to both mind and body. That’s the goal of thousands of homeowners across the country who build a swimming pool-spa combination to enjoy. But while you, too, may […]
Patio & Poolside Dining: 5 Tips for Choosing Your Outdoor Furniture

—Make the right picks to create a lasting, comfortable setting for backyard meals For enjoying meals and conversation, what better place is there other than poolside in your own backyard? Whether it’s a sit-down family barbeque, to a romantic moonlit meal for two, or outdoor bash with several dozen friends and a spread of fun […]
Backyard Staycation Ideas: 10 Features for a Resort at Home

You priced the family vacation. Flights, hotel, rental car, eating out, the whole thing. Then you looked at the backyard and realized you already paid for the resort. It just needs the features that make a resort feel like one. Below are 10 staycation upgrades that handle shade, dining, warmth, and fun, so the backyard […]