Build your pool now so you’ll be swimming by summer.

If you want to beat the heat of summer by building a pool, now is the time to dive in. A early start will give you wiggle room in the construction timeline for any delays, and get you on your contractor’s job list early, before it starts filling up.
Two main factors seem to be determining the trends in pool design and construction this year: the environment and the economy. Everyone’s thinking “green” in more ways than one. First, they want to ensure their pool construction is as environmentally friendly as possible. And homeowners want to protect the green in their wallets by cutting back on some of the more extravagant design options.

Keeping your green
The credit crunch and decline in the housing and mortgage industries has many homeowners scaling back their pool construction plans. Most people are paying for their pools with home equity loans, and with the lack of available equity, people are choosing simpler designs. Still, you can create a beautiful pool on a more limited budget.  One way to cut costs is to choose a smaller pool — shaving a few feet off the length and width can save thousands. Create beauty by incorporating more landscaping into your pool construction project. Well-planned landscape designs can create wonders in your garden.
Always research your contractor/architect thoroughly. Personal references are excellent recommendations. Always seek multiple bids. Read the bids carefully to ensure you’re comparing apples to apples between the various contractors. Get details so you know exactly what is included and be aware that some contractors come in with a low bid to get the job, then jack up the price throughout the building process and change orders for things that should have been included in the first place. One advantage of going with a landscape architect is that one single plan can be sent to all contractors for bid, so they’re all sending in proposals on the same specifications. 
Stick with a local contractor who knows the regional permitting requirements. When you start your project, some town halls will provide permits over the counter, others can take up to four weeks or more. Keep in mind, when a contractor tells you he thinks he can get you swimming in 12 weeks, time starts running from the point the permits are approved.
Simple pools can be built in two months, if the weather is good. From excavation to the Gunite phase usually only takes three weeks. The masonry phase takes longest — the decking, retaining walls, fire pits and landscaping.  Each of these phases may have separate permit requirements.

Keeping the Earth green
There are a few ways to eliminate the environmental impact of your pool construction. One is to install a solar heating system. If you plan to live in your home for 10 years or more, solar is a good idea. Over time, you will recuperate the costs in lower energy bills, and, as a bonus, you’ll extend your swimming season a month earlier in the spring and a month later in the Autumn.
For fewer chemicals in the water and on your skin and hair, choose a salt-chlorine system. These are standard now and require less maintenance.

Consider a spool
Pool sizes have changed and adapted to our evolving Spanish lifestyle. While most pools built today are larger than those built in the past, a new pool style called a spool has evolved to accommodate the smaller gardens many homes have in newer communities. 
Part spa and part pool, spools are something fun to play in when the weather gets hot, but they typically have eight jets and can be heated like a traditional spa. Rocks and waterfalls can be incorporated into the design. Spools are good for gardens sized around 20 metres by 10 meters. The finished size of a typical spool is 5 by 3 meters.

Dive in
Whether you plan to utilize your pool for pure relaxation, or a private place to exercise — there is a pool out there for you. Other people might simply be looking to create a luxurious retreat for hosting dinner parties. No matter what, a pool is sure to add value to any property and quality of life.

Make your pool stand out in the crowd

• Landscape to add atmosphere and privacy to your space. An all-white garden glows at night and tropical plants create an island paradise.
• Use lighting to create atmosphere. while highlighting the best features of your space. There is dramatic fibre optic technology available to accentuate any pool or spa.
• Create an outdoor living area with weather-resistant furnishings and an outdoor kitchen/dining area. Guests can dine al fresco while enjoying the calming effect of the pooL
• When planning your pool. consider adding a swim-up bar or in-pool seating to accommodate guests and add to the resort atmosphere.
• Make your pool a safe zone by installing the proper fencing. self-latching gates and even alarm sensors on doors leading outside. There are even alarms available to alert you if something goes into the water.

Contacts:
Marbella Pools & Spas
• Residential and community swimming pool maintenance
• Pool and Spa repair and renovation services
• Full range of competitively priced pool and spa products
• Dedicated team of technical profesionals
• Full guarantee on workmanship
Centro Commercial 1, Urb Las Petunias
San Pedro de Alcantara, 29670 Malaga Spain
Tel : + 34 95 278 1939
Fax : + 34 95 278 6257
info@marbellapools.com
www.marbellapools.com

Baby Secure
Removable Pool Fencing
Tel : + 34 902 500 154 or 663 770 752
www.babysecure.com


Williams Refrigeration S.L
• Solar Heating
• Swimming Pool Heating
• Infrared Patio Heaters
Tel: 0034 952 596 404 or 679 284 959
info@airconditioningspain.com
www.airconditioningspain.com

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