Replies

1. 
   Chad_S. | Mar 18, 1999 11:25pm | #1

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   Jim,

   If you can check a local pool distributor for in ground pools (you could pretend you're interested in buying one to get some details, or you could ask). I'm sure they would be able to help. If none are available in your area, search the web for pool suppliers & manufacturers. There are actually quite a few part and things involved in getting a pool set up properly.

   Good luck & happy hunting!

2. 
   Guest_ | Mar 19, 1999 02:25am | #2

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   Jim,

   The pool guys around me are super....Ask for help as you buy some parts you'll need...Be honest too, much better approach!

   J

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 19, 1999 06:52am | #3

   *Jim,Having just had the pleasure of having an inground pool installed last summer, I think that I can offer you some advice. Do now what you can't do later,ie.underwater lighting, walk-in stairs, have one or two jacuzzi jets built into the stairs(this is heaven!), use aluminum coping instead vinyl, a slide, if you want one, secured into the concrete. Really plan out your landscaping and especially lighting. You'll probably want extra electrical outlets for music. I had a switch put in the kitchen to control the underwater light-saves running out on nights when you're not swimming. After a lot of research, I chose a cartridge filter-and am really impressed with it. Here in Ontario, we have stringent by-laws regarding pool enclosures and placement of pools. Good luck,Beatrix

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 20, 1999 08:35pm | #4

   *Beatrix,In hindsight, I wish I had had the foresight as you did. My wife and I had a pool built a few years back, but tried to go the el cheapo route. We now wish that we had 2 underwater lights instead of one, the walkin stairs seemed like a luxury at the time-now will have to wait until we replace the liner (maybe 15 years or so).Never heard of having jets ,in the stairsDid you also put a pump switch in your house or do you use a timer? It's an ongoing arguement about who has to go out to shut off the pump at night. Sounds like your planning has and will continue to pay off. Regards, Brian

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 21, 1999 08:36pm | #5

   *Brian,Thanks for the compliment. Alot of planning was put into this pool. Sorry to hear that you cheaped out. I run our pump 24 hours a day, therefore no need for an indoor switch. After having pools for years, we've learned that to keep the chlorine level constant and the waterb reallyclear, you need keep it circulating.Plus, we use an automatic chlorinator. I don't know if you have a vinyl liner or not, but fluctuating chemical levels and the resulting need to "shock" the pool more often, will decrease the lifespan of the liner.(But then, you could put in the stairs sooner!) I'd bet that the extra cost of your chemicals is higher than our electric bill for running the filter constantly.Counting down the days til opening day!Beatrix

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 22, 1999 12:19am | #6

   *Beatrix,Ok, I'm cheap. You sound like you know what your talking about.What are thoughts on a diving board?How about a heater? Do you run that constantly too? Possibly a pool is like a house,you have to build 3 to really know what you want. This is only our first.Regards,Brian

2. 
   Guest_ | Mar 22, 1999 09:59am | #7

   *Hey Folks;It is EASY to add remotes for pump, lights, etc.Use X10 controllers! There are single pole switches for lights, and 2pole/240V for pumps. Theyt work like a regular rocker, but also monitor the line for a control signal. The signal causes them to go on or off (even dim).RadioShack sells them (if you can stomach a visit). Switches run $20 for 120V up to $60 for 240V. Controllers are from 12 to 100+ for computer based schedulers. Each switch has a unique address.For around $25 you can get a controller with a clock. It will control up to 8 different addresses. (Good for that lived in look.)(THis is kind of the simpler "home automation" stuff.)Adam

3. 
   Guest_ | Mar 22, 1999 06:53pm | #8

   *Brian,Yes, the heater is set (at about 88F) and then left alone. The solar blanket is on every night. Again, if you leave the pump on, the temp. will fluctuate less too. Sounds like you're working too hard. As much as my family and I love diving and doing flips, I'd never have a diving board in my backyard. I'd consider it if the deep end were 50 ft. long...but, it's not. I'm a nurse and have seen far too many horror stories from them.BTW-this isour 3rd pool-practice does makes perfect.Adam-did your pipes freeze this winter?Beatrix

3. 
   fixit_ | Mar 23, 1999 01:40am | #9

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   Check out http://www.sunlandpools.com they have a pool in a box kit that looks interesting.

1. 
   Fred_Matthews | Mar 23, 1999 10:07am | #10

   *Jim:Pay close attention to what NEC has to say on pools/spas. Fixture and outlet distances (horizontal and vertical), bonding, grounding and electrical devices all are treated specifically.

4. 
   Guest_ | Mar 23, 1999 10:38pm | #11

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   Beatrix,

   Can't live your life without taking risks. Don't you think that a slide is as risky as a board? We have neither, but are considering a diving board.

   Brian

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 24, 1999 08:39pm | #12

   *Brian,You asked about my thoughts on a diving board-I've just seen too many people whose last voluntary action was a dive in a backyard pool. Risks?? How about bungee jumping or parasailing- I love them both! I'll take chances myself, but if I can limit the risks of others visiting my home - I will. It's rarely the pool owners family who is hurt.Beatrix

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 28, 1999 08:27pm | #13

   *Completely off topic,but hasn't bunjee jumping been banned? Parasailing isn't for the weak stomachs certainly.Regards,Brian

1. 
   Guest_ | Mar 29, 1999 07:53pm | #14

   *Brian,Bunjee jumping is something fun and foolish that you do before you "grow up". Been there, done that. I parasail every summer, now with my 11 year old daughter-it's incredible!!Beatrix

5. 
   Jim_Mitchell_GC | Apr 01, 1999 03:02am | #15

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   Thanks guys the suggestions are very informative I am keeping notes but I did start another topic "swimming pool websites if you know of any forums or websites to help me build my pool or if you have personal knowedge maybe I can bend your ear,

6. 
   Jim_Mitchell | Apr 01, 1999 03:02am | #16

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   I,m a remodeling contractor looking to build my own 15X30 inground swimming pool I don't believe it will be a problem with good subs which I have but I need electrical, plumbing and pool details to pull the permit I was wondering if somebody out there could help or give me tips on things I may overlook, Thanks
   Jim Mitchell G.C.