Thursday, February 28, 2013

Swimming Pool Maintenance Tips & Secrets | Pool Installers Tampa | Clearwater

Keeping your pool healthy and clean can sometimes be a difficult job if you’re planning to do it yourself. Sometimes we let it turn out to be more work than actually needed. This is the main reason why most people hire a company to do the job. But hiring a company to for simple swimming pool maintenance can be expensive, when maintaining your pool yourself really isn’t that difficult.

If you follow the simple steps provided in this quick article it will help you actually spend more time IN the pool than out of it AND save you money!

5 Tips to Keep your Pool Healthy

  • Don’t use a pool testing kit on rainy and/or windy days – On rainy and windy days pool testing kits will sometimes give you a bad reading. Wait until a day after it stops raining to test the pool.
  • Check your pH levels twice a week – pH should be balanced anywhere from 7.2 – 7.6
  • Add anti-algae agents once a week
  • Shock your pool once a week – Add about one bag of shock per 10,000 gallons of water
  • Clean your filter – generally you should check your filter once a month, just to be safe, but you shouldn’t have to clean it that often…once every 6 months should be plenty.

If you follow these simple steps you will save time, money and aggravation. If you have any questions regarding your pool please feel free to contact us!

Tropical Pools and Pavers
Pool Installers
Tampa - Clearwater
727-474-2142

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Pool Builder Tampa | Pool of the Month Contest Winner | January 2013

Pool Builder Tampa | Pool of the Month

Congratulations to Lucy Clark, the winner of Tropical Pools and Pavers "Pool of the Month" contest for January, 2013!

If you’re not familiar with Tropical Pools and Pavers and are just finding this page in a search, please check out our website:

Tropical Pools and Pavers
Pool Builder Tampa
727-474-2142

More Pool of the Month Contest Info


Our Pool of the Month contest is a great place to show off your very own backyard paradise. One image is chosen every month to be posted as the Pool of the Month on our website! Winners will be selected from the photos that were received during the previous month and will be contacted via the email address submitted to let you know that you won!

If you would like to participate in our Pool of the Month contest, all you need to do is go to the Tropical Pools and Pavers Pool of the Month page, upload your photo, and give us some information about your pool. It’s perfectly fine to submit a photo of your pool that you took previous to the current month.

February's winner will be chosen on March 1st, so send us your photos, there's still time!

We'd like to thank everyone for all the great photos that have been submitted since we've started this contest.

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Pool Resurfacing Tampa | Clearwater | St. Petersburg

Is your pool starting to show signs of age? Looking to resurface your pool? Unfortunately, swimming pool resurfacing may be necessary for an aged or damaged pool. The good news is: most pool surfaces can be restored to their original condition with the right materials and techniques. Pool resurfacing your aged pool will make it easier and less costly to maintain, as well as perk up the cosmetic appeal of the pool.

Whether you're looking for a complete redesign of your pool or pool resurfacing Tampa pool builders are dedicated to fulfilling all your swimming pool needs. Let our experts come and inspect your pool. You may find that your pool finish is just stained or the tile is old and/or outdated.

Pool Surfaces 

There are a pretty wide variety of pool resurfacing options available. Our experienced pool builders will work closely with you to choose the option that best fits your needs. No one type of pool surface is better than the other. It all depends on what would work best for you.

The three main pool surfaces are:
  • Concrete
  • Vinyl
  • Fiberglass
Concrete pools have more choices for their design and surfacing options. You can have plaster, marble, tile, glass bead, and many other designs. Vinyl pools must be resurfaced with a vinyl liner. Vinyl liners come in a variety of colors and patterns that will fit any pool. Fiberglass pools are prefabricated. Resurfacing a fiberglass pool requires total fiberglass shell replacement. When choosing the right pool surface, usually the 3 most important things to think about are: cost, color, and texture. There are pros and cons to all of them. Let us help you make the right decision!

If you’re thinking you might need pool resurfacing Tampa has the best pool builder for the job: Tropical Pools and Pavers! Our pool builders will sit down with you, learn your situation and help you decide which option is best for you. Check out our website: www.TropicalPoolsandPavers.com

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Health Advantages with In Ground Hot Tubs

When most people think of having in ground hot tubs in their backyard, they traditionally regard them as a luxury. Although they’re definitely nice to have for relaxation and family fun, in ground hot tubs can be used for a number of health benefits, like:
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Insomnia
  • Arthritis
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Stress relief
In ground hot tubs Tropical Pools and Pavers
In ground hot tubs are very often overlooked by doctors prescribing their patients for these very painful conditions. But, it is important to know that they definitely have a positive impact on several conditions.

Let’s go over the benefits of having one if you have these conditions.

Type 2 Diabetes

Thousands of people are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes every year. Unfortunately, very few are actually aware of how much in ground hot tubs can actually help them. Studies have shown that even as little as 20 or 30 minutes in a hot tub daily can reduce blood sugar levels substantially. In most cases blood sugar levels are lowered by more than 10%. This reduction will greatly improve the lives of type 2 sufferers without the use of daily drugs.

Insomnia

I don’t know about you, but for me sleep is one of my favorite past-times. If I don’t get my 8 hours – or at least 6 – I’m pretty much useless. Did you know that up to 75% of the US population reports that they’ve suffered from some sort of insomnia? Studies show that a drop in body temperature right before going to bed will help put you into a deep sleep. What happens is 30 minutes in the hot tub raises your body temperature, and when you get out your body temperature drops, resulting in falling into a deep sleep.

Arthritis

Reports have said in many cases a 20-30 minute session in their in ground hot tubs have provided enough pain relief to make it possible to finish their daily tasks without pain. The pain is relieved by a combination of three things:
  • Heat
  • Buoyancy
  • Massage properties

Tropical Pools and Pavers | Spa and Pool Builders | Tampa | Clearwater | St. Petersburg

Tropical Pools and Pavers can add a hot tub to your existing pool, build stand-alone in ground hot tubs, or rebuild or repair your existing hot tub. We are hot tub and pool builders with over 25 years experience and are very well known throughout Florida as one of the top pool and paver companies in the business. If you suffer from any of these conditions, we feel it will be well worth the money you will spend to have a hot tub installed. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have about your pool or hot tub needs.

Thursday, January 10, 2013

2012: Hottest Year Recorded in the US | Custom Pool St Petersburg

Custom Pool St Petersburg
The official numbers are in! 2012 was the hottest year EVER recorded in the United States! Sounds like it might be time to get that swimming pool! If you need a custom pool St Petersburg has them!

St Petersburg is pretty hot during the summer. If you’re from Tampa Bay, you know the weather in the whole area is very hot in the summer, so don’t wait for another record year in 2013, get the pool you’ve always dreamed of having!

Curtis and Ronnie Larson (owners of Tropical Pools and Pavers) are two brothers with 23 years of experience in the pool and paving industry. They are recognized and respected throughout the Tampa Bay area as some of the best pool builders in the industry. Not many pool companies can say that.

Record Temperatures

So, just how hot was it in 2012? The difference in temperature year to year is usually measured in fractions of a degree, but last year’s average temp surpassed the previous record by a whole degree: at 55.3 degrees! This record has been rising for years, but never as much as it did in 2012.

“The heat was remarkable,” said Jake Crouch, who is a scientist with the National Climatic Data Center. “It was prolonged. That we beat the record by one degree is quite a big deal.”

This record is for the United States, and is not expected to be a global temperature record when figures are released. This year there was a La NiƱa weather pattern, which cools global climate, so scientists don’t expect it to be the worlds hottest year; probably the eighth or ninth.

Among the cities that set temperature records in 2012 were:
  • Nashville, Tn 
  • Athens, Ga 
  • Cairo, Ill 
  • Greenville, S.C. 
  • Lamar, Co
If you need a custom pool St Petersburg has them! Call Tropical Pools and Pavers today!

Monday, December 31, 2012

Automatic Pool Cleaner | Swimming Pool Builder Tampa

Cleaning your pool manually can be very time-consuming, and unfortunately not everyone can afford to have a “pool guy” come once a week to clean your pool. So, we’re going to talk about buying an automatic pool cleaner. An automatic pool cleaner can be great help if you don't have the time that it takes to clean your pool. But, what kind should you get?

When it comes to a good swimming pool builder Tampa has the best you can find: Tropical Pools and Pavers. We have over 23 years of experience in the inground pool and paving business. If you have one of our pools, we hope you will take pride in your ownership and keep your pool maintained. Here, we’re going to talk about 3 different kinds of automatic pool cleaners that will easily help you keep your pool clean.

Automatic Pressure Cleaners

Automatic Pressure Cleaners use water pressure from a pump to clean the pool. You can use either the main circulation pump or a booster pump designed specifically for the pool cleaner. This cleaner uses the water pressure to move the cleaner around the pool.

This automatic pool cleaner has many advantages. It cleans the pool very thoroughly and lasts years and years. If you have a lot of trees in - or close to - your backyard, this is probably the best option for you.

Automatic Suction Cleaners

The automatic suction cleaner uses suction to move the device. This cleaner also has many advantages. The cleaning device basically acts like a drain that’s always moving: when the cleaner is working, it moves water through the filtration system at the same time. Most of these cleaners even scrub the pool walls.

This type of cleaner is usually less expensive, and you don’t have to install a separate pump. As long as you don't get a lot of large debris in your pool, this is a great choice.

Robotic Cleaners

A robotic cleaner is driven by an electric motor that is inside the device. It’s powered by electricity from a transformer plugged into an outlet.

This cleaner usually has a computer chip that can watch the cleaner as it cleans. As it watches it clean, it teaches the cleaner to clean better. Some models will even let you control the cleaner using a remote control.

These cleaners can definitely get expensive, but they may just be worth it if you really don’t want to put any effort in to keep your pool up.

Like we said earlier: when it comes to a good swimming pool builder Tampa has the best you can find: Tropical Pools and Pavers. Please contact us for any questions you may have about your backyard paradise.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Tips to Hire the Right Pool Contractor Tampa - Clearwater

pool contractor Tampa
Looking to finally have your dream swimming pool built? Finding the right contractor for your swimming pool construction can certainly be a difficult task. When it comes to pool construction Tampa has a lot of contractors, but are they the right ones for you? Remember: lower price doesn’t mean better quality.

Before you start calling dozens of contractors to come and give you a free estimate, read these following tips. If these suggestions are followed, you should save yourself a great deal of aggravation and money in the future:
  • Ask contractors lots of questions - Don’t assume they’re going to just volunteer information about constructing a pool, but the more you know about the construction the better buyer you are going to be.
  • Get a few estimates - Don’t waste your time getting 10-15 estimates for your swimming pool construction. That’s only going to confuse you. Look around and find 3 or 4 reputable swimming pool companies. Then make a decision.
  • Do homework on your contractor – Find out what makes the contractor qualified. Don’t hire somebody without finding out a little bit about their history. Ask to see some of their work and if they have referrals they’d give you.
  • Do NOT hire your contractor based on price - If you choose your pool builder on price alone, chances are you are going to be disappointed.
  • READ YOUR CONTRACT - This is definitely one of the most important things you are going to do when hiring a pool contractor. Make sure everything that was promised to you is written in the contract.
Following these simple steps will help you to hire the right pool contractor. Your dream swimming pool is waiting for you! Now go get it!

Friday, November 30, 2012

Swimming Pool Safety | Pool Builders Tampa

When it comes to pool builders Tampa has a lot of them. Backyard pools are becoming more and more popular every day. They’re fun, relaxing and also provide great exercise and recreation for your family and/or friends. Unfortunately, that does not mean they are not dangerous.

For a toddler, a pool can mean certain death. Did you know that drowning is the number one cause of death for children under five in some states?

We’re talking about responsible parents who were careful and had close supervision over their kids. Most were educated, made good money and could afford nice homes with swimming pools.

Here are some pretty scary facts:
  • 69 percent of toddler drownings occurred while one or both parents were home
  • 77 percent of the children that drowned had been seen 5 minutes before being missed
  • 46 percent weren’t outside prior to being found in the pool
  • 39 percent of the parents were doing chores when these drownings happened

What Can Be Done For Safety?

Although 69 percent of toddler drownings occurred while one or both parents were home, supervision is still going to be your most important safety feature. But, there should be backup safety features.
Here are a few that we think are important:
  1. Doors from your house to the pool area should have high locks
  2. An alarm should also be placed on that door, also high up so the toddler cannot turn it off
  3. A fence surrounding the pool
  4. Alarm your pool
  5. Water survival training for your toddler
We feel the first and second safety features are a MUST have, with a fence surrounding your pool a very close runner up. With your close supervision, high locks, high alarms and a fence around your pool, your toddler should be safe, but the last two features will add more safety if your child is an adventurous one.

If you have any questions or concerns about pool safety, please contact Tropical Pools and Pavers.

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Inground Pool Construction; Building the Perfect Pool

Proper planning for inground pool construction can be harder than it seems. Before you break ground, you should make sure you have considered all your options and obligations first. Once your pool is constructed, it’s final and you don’t want to end up with a pool you’re not 100% happy with. If you make sure you know what you want before you start, it will save money and aggravation at the end of the day.
Inground Pool Construction; Building the Perfect Pool
In this article, we’re going to cover some simple steps to help you choose the perfect inground pool construction for you and your family. If these steps are followed, this process will go much smoother and you can be relaxing in your new pool as fast as possible!

Steps to Follow for your Inground Pool Construction

There's much more to inground pool construction than having someone dig a big hole in your backyard and fill it with water. That being said, there are some tough decisions to be made. You have to be happy with your pool, since it’s going to be there for a while. Here are some simple, but important steps to follow in order for you to get the perfect pool for you and your family:
  1. Choose a pool design
  2. Choose where your pool is going to be in your yard
  3. Get a quote from a reputable in ground pool construction company
  4. Compare pricing with other companies

Other Things to Think of When Building your Pool

There are a lot of things that aren't included in the price of your inground pool construction that most people like to accompany their pool with and some things that are a necessity; a fence totally surrounding your pool is one of them. Of course you could build a pool and not have any of these accessories, but most people have one - or several - of these things: lighting for nighttime swimming, pool deck, patio, water testing kits, patio furniture, pool toys, storage shed for pool toys/accessories, etc.
Like I said, you're not going to need all of these items, but they are nice to have them. When most people are thinking of having a pool built in their backyard, they forget these things. We just want you to keep them in mind when putting together your inground pool construction budget.
Tropical Pools and Pavers is a well-know, respected inground pool construction company, helping you with all your swimming pool needs.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

How to Winterize a Pool in Florida; Pool Care Part 1

How to winterize a pool? In Florida?! Yes, I know, we hardly have a “winter” in Florida, but in the “cold” months in Florida, (November through February, maybe?) most Floridians are wearing pants and jackets, and definitely aren’t getting into their pool…unless of course they have friends or family come visit from up north where it’s really cold…

It’s these months where a pool can be damaged if you don’t properly learn how to winterize a pool.

5 Steps to Properly Winterize a Pool in Florida; Tropical Pools and Pavers

If you have any doubts at all if your pool is fit for these steps, or you just don’t want to do it yourself, contact Tropical Pools and Pavers, the most respected pool contractors in the Tampa Bay area, at www.tropicalpoolsandpavers.com. These five steps can be used for most pools, but may not be right for every pool:
  1. Balance chemicals
  2. Drain pipes and lower water level
  3. Clean pool
  4. Take all pool accessories out of pool
  5. Snugly add pool cover

3 Steps after you learned How to Winterize a Pool

You’re not done yet! I know this seems like a lot of steps to learn how to winterize a swimming pool, but it is crucial to follow all these steps if you want your pool to be opened without having any problems when it’s time. Here are a few more simple steps to follow to maintain your pool after you’ve winterized it:
  • Make sure your pool cover is secure every few days or so
  • Every once in a while check to make sure your water is still properly balanced
  • If you didn’t drain your pipes, make sure you keep an eye on the weather. If it freezes and you have water in your pipes, that could be devastating
Like we said earlier in this article, if you have any doubts what you’re doing is right or wrong, please call the professionals. Tropical Pools and Pavers can help with all your pool needs.

Sunday, September 30, 2012

Terrifying Infinity Pool; Cool Pool of the Month!

The infinity pool is – by far – the most beautiful type of swimming pool available. Infinity pool builders around the world are pushing the limit to build the best, or most eye-catching pool there is. A hotel called Marina Bay Sands in Singapore might just take the cake for the coolest – and maybe a little terrifying – infinity pool in the world. It might actually be more than just “a little terrifying”, as this infinity pool is on the ledge of a 55 story building!
infinity pool
Strategically placed right on the ledge of a 55 story building, this infinity pool makes it look like these swimmers might just fall over the edge of a sky scraper if they lean over too far...

Infinity Pool Designs

There are many types of infinity pools around the world, with styles varying generally by the pool's location. Basically, the infinity pool (otherwise know as a vanishing edge, zero edge, disappearing edge, or negative edge pool) is a swimming pool constructed to look like it blends into the horizon.
This pool blends into the city, but others will "blend into":
  • Valleys
  • The ocean
  • Woods
Basically, the wall of the infinity pool can't be seen above the water. The water in the pool spills over the edge into a basin and is then pumped back into the pool. In Florida, most infinity pools are built to "blend into" the ocean or bay.

Infinity Pool Contractors | Tampa | Clearwater | Florida

Tropical Pools and Pavers have been the leading infinity pool contractors in the Tampa-Clearwater, Florida area for more than 25 years. We use only the highest quality equipment and materials. If you have any questions about having an infinity pool built in your yard, please call Tropical Pools and Pavers for a consultation. We will come to your home, go over designs with you, and help you turn the dreams of your very own backyard paradise into a reality!

Friday, September 7, 2012

Outdoor Kitchens; Design Ideas

outdoor kitchens
Outdoor kitchens are a great way to add flavor to your existing backyard pool or spa. If you’ve been interested in outdoor kitchens, but haven’t taken that ‘next step’ to look into one yet, we’re going to give you some great design ideas. Following just a few of these tips will help you decide how you want your outdoor kitchen to look. It will also help you make the decision to transform your backyard into a tropical paradise where you can cook and enjoy life in style!

Tips for your Outdoor Kitchen Construction

All the different areas of your kitchen have to work together and efficiently. If you follow these very important tips and make some important decisions, Tropical Pools and Pavers will make sure your outdoor kitchen construction is perfect for you:
  • Make sure your whole backyard is part of a single fully-functional plan
  • Compliment the design of your backyard and your home!
  • Decide if you want your indoor kitchen and outdoor kitchen close together to be more efficient
  • Make sure you have ample lighting for safety
  • Make sure all kitchen areas work together (cooktop, refrigerator, sink, prep counter)
  • Plan for the needed utilities (electric, gas, water)
  • Consider getting a radio installed in your kitchen

Outdoor Kitchen Builders | Tampa | Clearwater | Brandon

If you’re thinking of outdoor kitchens Tampa has the perfect weather to make the most use out of your investment! Tropical Pools and Pavers are highly respected outdoor kitchen builders. Let them help you turn your dream kitchen into a reality! If you’re looking for a qualified outdoor kitchen contractor, trust Tropical Pools and Pavers, but not just because we say so, but because they have references, photos, and over 25 years experience to back their work up.

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Spa Builders

There is a difference in spa builders: Design, affordability, performance, and most importantly, quality. Tropical Pools and Pavers spa builders have more than 25 years experience in the business. Their spas look amazing, last longer, and are usually a lot less expensive than other local spa builders. They specifically design their spas to exceed your expectations in design and budget. Tropical Pools and Pavers will also support any spa that they build for years to come.

Professional, Experienced, Affordable, Spa Builder Tampa

The professional spa builders at Tropical Pools and Pavers serve families throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties. Cities they operate in are, but not limited to:
  • Lakeland
  • New Port Richey
  • Clearwater
  • Valrico
  • St. Petersburg
  • Largo
  • Zephyrhills
  • Tampa
  • Brandon
The team of spa builders that make Tropical Pools and Pavers is comprised of very qualified craftsmen who own the company, rather than hired personnel who usually won’t take as much pride in their work as owners will. This also ensures a quality built spa in a lot less time than the usual slow workers who are getting paid hourly.

7 Reasons Homeowners Love Tropical Pools and Pavers; Spa Builders

  1. Full service pool and spa company with over 25 years experience.
  2. They’re more than just a pool and spa company. They handle entire backyards: pavers, waterfalls, and outdoor kitchens
  3. They offer energy efficient pool equipment which offers very low maintenance.
  4. They have a very extensive referral record.
  5. They offer all the current technology.
  6. All their pools and spas come with a warranty.
  7. They have a very friendly, professional, honest staff.

Thursday, August 9, 2012

Inground Pools ; Popular Types

The dog days of a scorching Florida summer will definitely make you dream about running into your backyard and diving into your very own gorgeous inground pool to cool off and relax. If you’ve been dreaming of inground pools lately, you should seriously start to think about your options before next summer begins. Now is the time to start planning!

Which Type of Inground Pool is best for me?

Before deciding when the best time to build your pool is, who your pool contractors are going to be, and what your budget is going to be for the whole project, you should probably think about which type of inground pool is best for your needs.
The three most popular types of in-ground pools are:
  1. Gunite pools
  2. Vinyl pools
  3. Fiberglass pools
Let’s learn a little about each of them.

Gunite Pools

Gunite pools are listed first because they are by far the most popular type of pool. Wet concrete is shot from a gun onto steel-reinforced walls. It’s then plastered and painted.
The reason gunite pools are the most popular is because they can be molded into any shape or size. It will take a little longer to build a gunite pool than it will for other kinds of pools, but it is generally stronger and more durable.

Vinyl Pools

Vinyl pools are listed second because they are the second most popular style of inground pool after gunite pools. Vinyl pools generally come in a limited shapes and sizes: mostly rectangular. Most vinyl pools are installed within a few weeks.
Another reason vinyl pools aren’t that popular – besides the fact that there aren’t many sizes and shapes – is because they are very susceptible to punctures and rips. They can be easily fixed if damaged, but after ripping a few times repair costs can start adding up.

Fiberglass Pools

Fiberglass pools are a lot cheaper than the other two types of swimming pools, can be installed (in most instances) in less than a week, and they tend to use less chemicals than concrete pools because they are nonporous, but they are very limited in size and shape.

Curtis and Ronnie Larson – owners of Tropical Pools and Pavers – are respected throughout Florida and the Tampa Bay area as top contractors of inground pools , spas , and water features. These brothers have over 20 years of experience building gorgeous pools and spas, and work very hard to build the best in ground pools possible.

If you would like to know more about inground pools installed in the Greater Tampa Bay area, please contact your local Tampa Pool Builders, Tropical Pools and Pavers.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Gunite Pool Repair

A gunite pool is a great pool and preferred by most homeowners, but will need pool repair some day, just like any other pool. The reason people prefer a gunite pool is because they can be molded to any shape and design that you want and are far stronger than regular concrete. It can be colored, embedded with a design, or covered with tiles, stones, etc.
Unfortunately, like every pool, there are certain problems that can arise, and you might need pool repair, even if the pool is built by a professional. Gunite pools can crack several different ways.

How did my Gunite Pool Crack?

Gunite pool repair-repaired gunite pool
A gunite pool can crack various ways, including:
  • Normal aging
  • Erosion
  • Ground surrounding the pool shifts; earthquake, freezing and thawing, etc.
  • If there is water behind the structure, it can pass through and change temperature, expanding and contracting the gunite
Small hairline cracks may be able to be very easily repaired; however, certain cracks cannot be simply plastered over. Cracks that are structural in nature must be stabilized to prevent the crack from widening. Pool repair is something that cannot be done easily by non-professionals.

Gunite Pool Repair Experts; Tropical Pools and Pavers, Clearwater, Florida

Tropical Pools and Pavers are well-respected gunite pool repair experts located in the Greater Tampa Bay area. If you think your pool has a crack, we will investigate your pool and find the problem. If we do find a crack, we will then remove the damaged gunite, install new steel and apply new gunite in the area that was cracked. We will make sure the area that was cracked is thicker than it originally was so the gunite does not crack again.
We find that our way or pool repair is unmatched by our competitors and we back our work 100%!
If you would like to know more about professional swimming pool repair in the Greater Tampa Bay area, please contact your local Tampa Pool Builders, Tropical Pools and Pavers. 

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

How to Install Pool Pavers; Tropical Pools and Pavers

How to install Pool pavers-gorgeous pool pavers
Installing pool pavers is just as – in some sense maybe more – important as the actual install of your swimming pool. A lot of people will try to learn how to install pool pavers by themselves. This is doable if you are an ambitious, skilled, do-it-yourself type of person. However, hiring Tropical Pools and Pavers to install your pool pavers for you, you can rest assured the job will come out exactly how you want your dream pool to look.

Installing new swimming pool pavers will be a great way to bring the look of your backyard tropical paradise to life!

Tips from your Favorite Pool Pavers, Tropical Pools and Pavers!

We follow these exact steps to make sure your pool pavers resemble the tropical paradise that you’re family has dreamed of!
  • Soil preparation
  • Soil compaction
  • Preparing paver base
  • Laying pavers
  • Cutting pavers
  • Filling joints
First thing we will do is smooth the soil around your pool, level it and get it ready to compact it. After it is compacted, we will then apply a separation fabric that will be under the paver base. Our next step will be to prepare and apply the paver base. Approximately 2 inches of base is applied. Once this is done we are ready to start laying the pavers!

Laying pavers are usually done in a left to right order. Strings are set before we start in order to guide us and make sure the pavers are in a perfectly straight line. They are laid one by one in a continuous line until done! A soft hammer is used to ensure the pavers are level onto the paver base.

Tropical Pools and Pavers – Serving Clearwater, Pinellas, Tampa, Hillsborough and Pasco Counties

As with any construction project, homeowners should conduct their due-diligence when searching for a professional pool paver. This can include researching the company's licensing, their online reviews, Facebook following, and the Better Business Bureau.

We know there are plenty of swimming pool pavers in Tampa Bay for you to choose from, but please make sure to check out Tropical Pools and Pavers! View photos of our new pools, pool remodels, spas and our pool and spa equipment. Once you do that, contact us to get a bid!




Monday, July 2, 2012

Pool Remodeling; Tropical Pools and Pavers Clearwater, Florida

Is your pool calling you to jump in, or is it keeping your summer get-together's from happening?

Whether you are looking for a basic resurface or a complete redesign, Tropical Pools and Pavers can help you with your pool remodeling needs. Tropical Pools and Pavers will repair or replace decking on your pool. We will also replace any equipment needed for your pool.

Swimming pool remodeling will be a great way for your get-togethers to kick off again!

Pool Remodeling Tips from your Favorite Pool Builders Tropical Pools and Pavers!

People that are in search of a pool remodeling company should get multiple quotes from different licensed pool builders, have a good estimate of their budget constraints and make sure they receive a warranty of some sort from the company that is hired.

These following pool remodeling tips will help you with ideas to make your pool desirable again:
  • Add water-features to your pool
  • Change your pool texture
  • Expand your pool deck
  • Add lights in and/or around your pool
Also, make sure to ask the company if it is licensed and insured, and don’t be afraid to ask if they can show you their license and insurance. If they are not properly licensed and insured and anyone is hurt during the project, the homeowner is automatically responsible.

Just when you think you've done enough research, do MORE! Make sure the company is not only licensed and insured, but check online reviews and research their company to make sure they don’t have any outstanding cases open with the Better Business Bureau.

Pool Remodeling Ideas

Here are a few pool remodels to give you good pool remodeling ideas.



If you would like to know more about professional swimming pool remodeling in the Greater Tampa Bay area, please contact your local Tampa Pool Builders, Tropical Pools and Pavers.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

New Commercial Laws for Pool Builders in Florida

Under a brand new law that just took effect in Florida in April of 2012, pool builders that are constructing public facilities must now work with local building department for permits and inspections. Florida pool builders will now have to deal with several building departments instead of just dealing with the county’s health department.

This law is a result of a piece of legislation that is attempting to streamline Florida’s health department. Before this new law was passed, the health department oversaw the construction and operation of over 37,000 public pools.

What exactly are the Changes for Commercial Pool Builders?

This new law will change how local the government and commercial pool builders will do business. The director of government and public affairs for the Florida Swimming Pool Association Jennifer Hatfield, stated, “I think that in the short term, there will likely be a learning curve, and that learning curve will vary based on the building department."

Here are some of the important changes for pool builders:
  • Pool builders will now have to deal with several building departments instead of just dealing with the county’s health department
  • The department may adopt and enforce rules, to protect the health, safety, or welfare of persons by setting sanitation and safety standards for public swimming pools and public bathing places
  • The department may not establish by rule any regulation governing the design, alteration, modification, or repair of public swimming pools and bathing places which has no impact on sanitation and safety of persons using public swimming pools and bathing places
Make sure your pool company is up to date on all the local/state laws before you hire them. If you would like to know more about swimming pool builders in Tampa, please contact your local Tampa Pool Builders, Tropical Pools and Pavers.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Swimming Pool Construction and Repair

Swimming pool construction
Deciding to build a new swimming pool is a fun and exciting experience. Swimming pool construction has many phases and steps that only professional pool builders should undertake. Hiring the right company for your swimming pool construction is an important decision. Make your decision based on reviews, referrals and feedback from your community.

Swimming Pool Construction; Repair or Remodeling

Swimming Pool Construction could mean that you need swimming pool repair or remodeling. It doesn't always have to mean brand new pool and spa construction. However, this is still a major project that should be done by experts only.

Swimming pool construction

Here is a outline of what you could expect during swimming pool construction:
  • Layout
  • Excavation
  • Plumbing and Equipment
  • Electrical Work
  • Shell Material
  • Pre-Plaster Clean Up
  • Fencing
  • Inspection
  • Interior Finish (Plastering Phase)
  • Start-Up
Make sure the pool builder you choose is up to date on all the newest pool technology and swimming pool designs. If you would like to know more about swimming pool construction please contact your local Tampa Swimming Pool Construction Company, Tropical Pools and Pavers.

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Choosing the Right Pool Contractors Tampa; Part 2

When it comes to pool contractors Tampa has a lot of them. In the first part of the “Choosing the Right Pool Contractor” series, we told you a few things:
  • Get any custom pool construction in writing
  • Ask the pool contractor for references
  • Don’t rush. Make sure you’re comfortable
  • Get several bids for swimming pools
Part 2 of this series will go a little more in depth on how to choose the right Tampa pool contractor.

Pool Contractors Responsibilities

Like we stated earlier, when it comes to pool contractors Tampa has a lot of them, and not all of them do the same things. Most Tampa pool contractors will use subcontractors to do some of the work. This could include concrete work, pool patios, etc. Make sure you find out what the pool contractor does and does not do, so you can make sure you stay within budget. Also, make sure you know if your pool builder will get the building permit or if you have to obtain the permit.

How much does a swimming pool cost; Pool Contractors Tampa, Clearwater Florida

There is no accurate answer as to how much a pool will cost you until some homework is done. There are so many factors to consider. Here are just a few:
  1. Pool size and shape
  2. Water depth
  3. Heated or not heated?
  4. Saltwater pool or regular chlorine?
We know there are plenty of pool contractors in Tampa Bay for you to choose from, but please make sure to check out Tropical Pools and Pavers! View our new pools, pool remodels, spas and our pool and spa equipment. Once you do that, contact us and get a bid!