Private Scenes

Philip Kessler

No Budget for a Pool Update? Refresh Instead

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A swimming pool update tends to be something that many of us put on the back burner as long as possible. There comes a day, though, doesn’t there?

That day when you take a good look at your surroundings and realize that your family’s private oasis had grown a bit bedraggled. It would be amazing to rip everything out and start over, wouldn’t it?

Envisioning what that could look like is a “the sky’s the limit” kind of moment, for sure!

Meanwhile, back to reality…

Installing a backyard pool isn’t in the budget for a lot of people right now. Moreover, if you add in the expense of ripping out the old one, we’re looking at a pretty big figure when everything is said and done.

There’s no reason to take off the rose-colored glasses yet, though, my friend. A pool makeover can have the same effect as a brand new one—almost anyway.

We’d like to share some ideas to bring your family’s private getaway spot back to life.

Replace the tile

There’s no question that new deck tile around the pool would produce an instantaneous result—especially if it carried throughout your entire outdoor living area!

Talk about a “wow” factor!

However, it would be an expensive change even if you chose a lower-end tile. Have you considered just switching out the waterline tile though? Since they are most commonly created with a pebble or stone finish, you could go with a pebble tile if yours is currently stone or vise versa.

You may be surprised at what a dramatic difference changing the waterline tile makes. The replacement cost for an average size pool normally starts between $600 and $800 depending on where you live.

Add some lighting

Adding LED lighting to your pool area is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to produce a dramatic effect. It gives your pool an entirely new look—several, actually, because LED systems normally contain a variety of lighting displays.

LED lighting is more energy-efficient than traditional pool lighting. That said, if you already have pool lights installed, you might want to consider switching them out. It can make a dramatic difference in your surroundings and will cost less over time.

Your family and guests are sure to give the new look a big thumbs up—whichever display you choose to use!

Water features

Water features are another pool effect worth considering if you’re looking to change the look and ambiance of your pool area completely.

When we think of water features in combination with swimming pools, waterfalls cascading down a rocky slope may spring to mind. They’re beautiful, aren’t they?

They’re pretty costly, too.

You can create a water wall or bubbling fountain that has the same mesmerizing effect on pool-goers, but it will take a much smaller budget. Subtle water features won’t break the bank and they provide you with that sense of serenity that seems to settle over us when we’re near the sound of running water.

Automation systems

Of course, a pool update doesn’t just include features that are pleasing to the eye…

As technology evolves, there are a lot of new gadgets and equipment that can be retrofitted so owners of older pools aren’t left behind. Rotobic cleaners, automatic pool covers, and all-in-one automation systems that test the water and dispense chemicals as needed are at your disposal.

You may not even have to walk outdoors to turn them on. These days, there’s usually an app for it!

Pumps and heating systems

If you have an older pool, it might be time to consider replacing both the pump and heating systems. Both of them could be costing you more to operate as they age… and they may not be working as efficiently as they have in years gone by either.

Pool pump

Replacing your pool pump with a new one may seem expensive, but when you consider that they slash energy use in half, it makes you want to take another look.

New pumps handle a variety of tasks, such as cleaning, heating, circulating, and even water feature operation. Switching out your old pump with a current-model pump may also bring you into compliance with Florida’s newer energy standards.

Heaters

Replacing your pool’s heater is another “more than meets the eye” remedy for an outdated family pool. New natural gas heaters are ultra-efficient and come with a high thermal efficiency rating for faster heating and low NOx output levels for a healthier environment.

Outdoor living rooms

Another option is to focus on your seating arrangements, thereby, drawing the eye away from your “leaves a little to be desired” swimming pool area. Putting some thought into your layout can create an entirely different outdoor environment.

Do you entertain a lot or is it usually just you and the fam spending time poolside together? Taking these things into consideration and finding a way to add a personal touch here and there will help you come up with the perfect design plan!

Maintaining your oasis

In the end, your backyard pool is where you and your loved ones gather to share good times together.

Creating an environment that adds to the memory-making is something you can do without totally replacing your aging swimming pool. Small changes can make a big difference in the ambiance created in your pool area.

And, remember, it’s the little things in life that mean a lot.

Water Features Add Ambiance to Outdoor Living Areas

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Humans can’t deny the fact that there’s just something about the sound of moving water that resonates in the soul. Water features can provide the same benefits as being near a large body of water—whether the feature is large or small.

It doesn’t matter if we’re sitting seaside or can hear a river off in the distance, the sound of it generates a sense of serenity deep within us. That’s true whether it’s a trickling brook or the sound of waves hitting the shore. Many people don’t live close enough to a large body of water to visit on a regular basis though. Some choose to create the same effect in their outdoor living area.

Water features enhance your relaxation experience allowing peace and tranquility to flow freely throughout the environment. It adds a positive aspect to the ambiance, agreed?

Not just for swimming pools

Installing water features in and around the swimming pool is a trend that isn’t dying out. People create amazing rock waterfalls, run stunning water walls along the length of the pool, and incorporate scones for an elegant look. That just names a few of the possibilities.

Actually, though, the sound of the water being filtered through its cycle and shooting back into the pool is enough to create a sense of serenity. Close your eyes and imagine yourself floating in the pool on a hot summer day—do you hear the water in the background?

We thought so.

Indoor water features

An indoor water feature works the same way that the outdoor ones do but they’re usually on a smaller scale.

Water features circulate water in a controlled cycle. They’re purely for decorative purposes, of course, and use the same water over and over again. They can sit on a tabletop, on the floor, or be installed on the wall.

Because the water is held in a reservoir and continuously cycled through the system, there aren’t any special plumbing requirements. However, lighted features may be more labor-intensive because they can require additional installation procedures—say if it’s to be hooked up to a specific outlet or light switch, for example.

Water features have several benefits

We’ve covered the fact that people want to be around moving water because it creates a sense of tranquility.

You’ll gain other benefits from installing a water feature on your patio or lanai.

They release negative ions. Electricity depletes them and most of our living spaces are equipped with a source of electricity, aren’t they?

Negative ions increase the flow of oxygen to the brain and that results in being more focused and less drowsy. Overall, you’ll be in a better mental state of mind. Some studies have shown that negative ions guard against germs in the air and reduces the symptoms of those suffering with respiratory conditions.

Moving water increases the humidity in the air. That fact becomes even more beneficial in areas that are consistently controlled by air conditioning or central heating.

Feng shui isn’t really about style

While many connect the term feng shui with a type of style, in actuality it’s about balancing energies from different elements throughout different areas of your home. It’s said creating the perfect balance has an amazing effect on your health and well-being.

The right combination allows you to better utilize your energy without having to fight through the negative energy within your immediate environment. Using the water element correctly “promotes the optimal flow of chi.” The Chinese call “chi” energy the life force of all matter. Obtaining the perfect balance of chi is vital to all feng shui applications.

Choosing your water feature

Have you decided which type of water feature will look best in your environment? We’re going to try and help you out here by listing the descriptions of different water feature styles.

Laminar jet

Strictly for the pool area, the laminar jet is designed to provide a clear, adjustable stream of water that arcs high up and out into the pool. They come standard with a built-in LED for a dramatic nighttime display, but daylight doesn’t make them less amazing… just less colorful.

The jets creates an endless stream of water without ripples or imperfections. They’re adjustable so you can change the direction to create the arc shape that you prefer.

Unless you’re experienced in pool design, it’s recommended that you have laminar jets installed by a professional rather than taking it on as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project.

Water walls

You often find a water wall in the center of the pool, however, placing them along the border of a swimming pool is another popular choice.

It’s also possible to add a smaller version of this mesmerizing water feature to your enclosed lanai, your patio, or even free-standing in an open area of your yard.

Do you have experience cutting metal? If so, you might want to check out the array of DIY videos on YouTube. You’ll need to be prepared to drill holes in the tubing, however, there are pre-cut kits available that ensure the spacing is spot on.

Floor fountains

The variety of floor fountains that are available is seemingly endless. Seriously. Still, no matter which one you finally settle on, the end result is going to enhance the ambiance of your outdoor living space.

If you’ll be placing the fountain on an interior floor rather than outside, it’s a good idea to use faux stone over real stone due to the sheer weight involved. When using real stone, it’s best to reinforce interior floors first so you’ll never have to worry about the floor giving way.

Scones or wall fountains

These water features can make a bold statement without taking up much space.

We’ll mention, too, that while it may seem as if nearly every water scone or wall fountain is depicted with water coming from a lion’s mouth, that’s definitely not reality. Some think they are more reserved for “elegant” interior designs. Of course, in reality, that is strictly up to the designer!

You are certain to find the perfect addition for your home if this is the water feature for you.

Tabletop fountains

Since you don’t have to have a large body of water to create a tranquil environment, tabletop fountains are gaining in popularity. That’s because small tabletop fountains have the same relaxing effect and are pleasing to the eye.

Lots of homeowners choose to gather their own materials and make building their tabletop fountains a DIY project. That process surely adds an even larger satisfaction margin to the outcome.

Tabletop fountains weigh in at a fraction of the cost compared to their much larger counterparts. That’s a pleasing experience in its own right.

The eye of the beholder

It’s totally understandable if, after reading this post, you’re still pondering which type of water feature to use.

Take time with your decision because you’re designing your backyard oasis. A place where family and friends come together to relax, unwind, and spend time with those they love. It’s only fitting that the area in which you do so reflects your persona.

It adds to the impact of those lifetime memories you’ll be making in a huge way.

3 Benefits of a Mesh Screen Pool Enclosure

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Florida building codes stipulate that the best way to guard against accidents is to fence in the pool, but are there added benefits to erecting a mesh screen pool enclosure instead of using traditional fencing materials?

We think so.

Swimming pools are like giant magnets for children. If you’ve got anything but a portable kiddie pool, you’re aware that Floridians are required by law to enclose backyard pools for safety’s sake. No one wants to think about a child wandering into their yard and falling into the pool. For that matter, no one wants their neighbor’s pet to suffer that fate either. What if they couldn’t get out again?

Mesh screen enclosures are the best bet

It’s hard to beat the luxury of walking out the back door and diving into the cool, relaxing water of your own pool. However, when you’re diving into the pool after entering your new mesh screen enclosure instead of a stuffy, glass one, we think you’ll enjoy your time even more.

They do more than afford you and your family a sense of privacy, unlike traditional pool fencing. They’re attractive and add to the ambiance of your home—in fact, some companies, like Private Screens, for instance, offer to customize screens for their customers. Share a photo of your favorite vacation spot or any image that creates the perfect sense of relaxation for you and yours. You’ll be thrilled with the result.

How do they do it?

Using any digital image, they can transform your pool area into a mesmerizing thing of beauty. Want to lounge poolside watching the waves crashing to the shore in the distance? Done. Would you love to find yourself at the center of a beautiful garden filled with blooming flowers? That’s doable too.

Here, at Private Screens, we use the highest quality dyes that are resistant to UV rays. Moreover, our screens are treated with extra UV protection too. They’re the perfect combination of beauty and brawn.

In addition to the added privacy and their obvious beauty, we’ve got three other benefits that a mesh pool screen enclosure provides you.

Are you curious to know what they are?

Made in the shade

Mesh pool screen enclosures partially protect your family from harmful ultraviolet (UV) light with a degree of shade. That means you won’t have to pull the kids out of the pool to reapply sunscreen as often. They’ll be thrilled to hear that. Moreover, you’ll be thrilled that they won’t be complaining about the wait time before they can jump into the water again.

In addition to providing a little shade and 75% more privacy than standard screens, porous mesh screens allow free airflow. The enclosed area will be far less likely to allow mold and mildew to get started because moisture won’t be locked in anywhere. Glass enclosures are notorious for that.

Repels insects and animals

A mesh screen pool enclosure keeps out snakes, lizards, frogs, mice, and other small creatures. They may be attracted to the water, but they aren’t getting in. You’ll never have to worry about fishing a dead animal from the water again.

Our tropical weather is the perfect breeding ground for insects and once they settle in, pool time gets a lot less enjoyable. Right? Well, that’s a thing of the past too because bugs are held at bay and stay outside of the enclosure. No more time spent poolside swatting at bugs and mosquitoes—night swims without being eaten alive or dousing yourself with bug spray? Woo hoo!

You’ll ditch the debris

Leaves and other yard debris aren’t as unsettling as a lifeless animal, but the pool can get trashed and we know what happens if we don’t stay on top of things! Skimming the pool is a time-consuming job. Lots of us take care of that on our own rather than hiring someone for that task. Pool enclosures eliminate a lot of the work! Furthermore, if the pool is left unattended for a few days, green, murky water caused by leaves and other debris decaying in the water won’t be an issue. You’re likely to find that maintaining your water levels becomes less of a chore too.

We’ve all left rafts and intertubes in the water only to have a storm blow up out of nowhere, right? Pool enclosures keep them from catching the wind and blowing away. You won’t be searching the neighborhood for them ever again!

Moreover, a mesh pool screen enclosure allows the wind to pass through them unencumbered rather than blocking their path. That means a lot if a tropical storm or hurricane is making landfall near you. Florida’s building codes require new construction to withstand hurricane-strength winds, pool enclosures included.

The beneficial recap

If you’re considering a pool enclosure rather than traditional pool fencing, you won’t regret the change. It’s sure to be built to meet hurricane guidelines.

The advantages that you’ll gain include:

  • A greater sense of privacy
  • Shade
  • Debris and animals can’t get in
  • Bug blocker
  • Durable and long-lasting

When making the decision between a glass or screen enclosure, remember these points:

  • Privacy screen enclosures are very cost-effective.
  • Some companies customize their screens for customers using digital imagery.
  • Mesh screen enclosures are very low maintenance and can be cleaned with a bucket of soapy water and a scrub brush or a power washer.
  • Due to the free airflow factor, mesh pool screen enclosures prevent mold and mildew because moisture doesn’t accumulate in cracks and crevices.

We’ll note here that no matter what type of enclosure you decide on, a well-built, attractive pool enclosure increases your property value to some extent. It’s unlikely that you’d ever recover the entire installation cost. Still, a well-maintained pool enclosure could make or break a buyer’s decision to choose your home over others.

You may not be planning to put your home on the market for years to come—most of us aren’t! Until that day comes, your backyard pool is going to be a favorite hangout for friends and family. Enclosing the pool to enhance your outdoor living area will add to the ambiance. That’s a good thing! You’ll be creating enjoyable memories that last a lifetime.

Frolic on, family and friends. Frolic on.

7 Steps to Protect Your Home From a Hurricane

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We’re a day into the hurricane season and it’s highly likely that every Floridian is aware that it doesn’t end until November 30th. For the most part, we just take hurricane season in stride around here. However, there’s always that tiny “what if” thought that makes its way into our heads every so often. It may pop into our minds a little more often than usual this year though.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting a 60% chance that we’re going to have another above-normal season this year. Experts have weighed in on the topic stating that they don’t anticipate it to be as extreme as the 2020 season.

That’s a relief! Maybe the 30% chance of a near-normal season will come through. Better yet, is the 10% chance that we’ll have a below-normal season. The odds are lower, but let’s cheer for the underdog on this one. What do you say?

In the meantime, have you made your rounds checking to see that you’re as ready as possible if a hurricane does head inland?

We’ve got a list of steps you can take to better protect your home.

The weathermen stay on top of the forecast telling us days in advance if we need to prepare. Still, the odds are slim to none that you would get a contractor to the house in time to get plywood on your windows let alone tackle a big job. It’s best to take on larger projects before the storm clouds are building on the horizon.

Speaking of staying on top

The thought of a hurricane ripping the roof from your home is pretty bleak, isn’t it? If that happens, the entire house can go down—and it can happen in mintes! Even if it doesn’t, odds are there won’t be much left to salvage.

Taking steps now to strengthen your roof’s wind resistance could make all the difference if a storm makes landfall near you.

Holding it together

An inexpensive step that nearly triples your roof’s wind resistance is using construction adhesive. That’s right. Glue. Buy a some tubes of adhesive and head for the attic. Run a thick bead of construction adhesive down each side of the rafters where it meets the plywood roof deck. Then, just let the glue dry.

Simple, right? And, it makes your roof is three times stronger!

Clip it

If your home is under construction, adding hurricane clips is a good idea. They strengthen the connection between the rafters and walls. This step also greatly increases your roof’s wind resistance. However, it’s tough to retrofit them. An experienced contractor can do the job, but it is costly. It usually involves cutting out a section of the siding and the wall sheathing at every spot where a rafter rests on the wall.

Braces aren’t just for teeth

If you have a gabled roof, it is more susceptible to wind damage. Bracing it from the underside is something to consider. The braces are merely 2x4s that run the length of the roof. Install them 18 inches from the ridge, in the center span and at the base. Gabled end bracing is achieved by using 2x4s placed in an X pattern from the top and bottom centers of the gable to the top and bottom center braces of the fourth truss.

An uncommon fix

If you’re beginning construction on a new home, ask your contractor about the Bostitch HurriQuake nail. This nail has an extra-large head, beefy ring shank, and spiral threads at the top. It’s unique design increases a roof’s resistance to uplift forcs by as much as 100 percent! Tests prove that the roof didn’t pull up when subjected to wind gusts of up to 170 mph.

See what’s coming at you

Hurricane windows are constructed of tempered glass that is adhered on either side of a sheet of high-tech polymer. The high-tech polymer holds the glass in place so that the window doesn’t fly apart when hit with debris. Even if it’s a 2×4 slamming into the glass end on, these windows stay together. The glass may crack, even spiderweb, but it stays put.

Once the wind gains access to your home through shattered windows, there’s an increased chance that you can lose your roof. Our homes aren’t airtight. Winds rush upward to the attic and force their way out through the tiniest spaces. This causes pressure to build inside. All the while, the storm is pounding away at your roof from the outside. This can literally rip your entire roof right off. Hurricane windows are built to withstand the force of wind-tossed debris. If the wind can’t get in, the chances of your home surviving are measurably increased.

In addition, unlike most storm shutters, hurricane windows provide a light source instead of leaving you in the dark. Moreover, there’s no putting them up and taking them down. Once you install these windows, they are at the ready 24/7.

Keep the door closed

Like your windows, if your exterior doors fail, the hurricane is coming in full force. Installing hurricane resistant doors is certainly an option. However, reinforcing the ones you have will be much less expensive and provides the added protection you need. You can purchase kits to do the job or simply install brackets above the door and purchase metal rods the proper length to reach from the brackets to the floor.

Don’t forget your garage door! The same technique is used. However, since a garage door is so large, it’s suggested that you drill holes in the garage floor to insert the metal rods into before fastening with the brackets above the door. It’s estimated that up to 90% of homes that are destroyed by a hurricane lost their garage door first allowing the wind to access the home in a big way.

Batten down the hatches

You don’t want the wind to take your outside structures. Check your pool screen enclosure or your lanai tie downs to make sure they’re in good shape. If you think they need replacing, do it. Tie-downs secure your enclosures to the base to keep them in place.

Small sheds should be secured as well.

Also, while we’re on the subject, don’t drain your pool. The water weighs it down. If you drain it, groundwater can accumulate and float it right out of the ground.

Look at your landscaping

Trees containing heavy foliage blow over easier. Prune your trees to allow the wind to pass through. It decreases the chance of them toppling over. Also, if planting trees in the future, check with your local nursery to see what types they suggest to better withstand storms.

If you have fruit trees, you should pick the fruit. Leaving it in place isn’t a good idea because the wind will rip it from the branches and turn it into projectiles.

Wrapping it up

If you find yourself in the path of a hurricane and local authorities suggest you evacuate, please, evacuate. Staying puts your family at great risk. Stay tuned to updates because things can change in an instant. Having an evacuation plan in place could save your life.

Providing added hurricane protection for your home now will have a lasting effect for years to come. Your family will be safer if ever you do need to weather the storm.

Building a Mesh Pool Screen Enclosure?

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Lots of Floridians decide that enclosing their swimming pool will allow them to enjoy it to the fullest—and they’re right! A pool screen enclosure will provide your family with an added sense of privacy and a degree of UV protection. Moreover, skimming the pool will become a once-in-a-while event rather than an “every time you turn around” affair.

Homeowners are choosing a mesh pool screen enclosure over glass for a number of reasons.

First and foremost, is the fact that glass enclosures are more expensive. A mesh screen enclosure allows air to circulate freely which helps alleviate the stuffy, closed-in feeling that many people experience inside a glass enclosure. Glass pool enclosures are, also, prone to mold and mildew problems because the air doesn’t circulate as well. Once moisture builds up, one or the other can get a foothold. If unnoticed, the problem grows—literally—and can wind up affecting your family’s health.

Before your enclosure goes up, there are several steps to consider to ensure the installation goes smoothly.

Zoning, permits, and the homeowner’s association

Before you begin any building project, you need to find out what—if any—could hinder your progress. You need to check with the city to discover if there are any zoning requirements or building codes that must be followed regarding your new structure. For instance, there are often limits to how close a structure can be from property lines. There could also be height restrictions and, of course, here in Florida, you must build your pool screen enclosure to meet hurricane safety requirements.

You’ll need to acquire a building permit as well. That’s often left in the hands of your contractor and if he doesn’t mention that aspect—it should raise a red flag. Failing to follow city requirements is a huge sign that you aren’t dealing with a reputable company.

Are you subject to the rules of a homeowner’s association (HOA)? If so, you’re aware of how particular they are about what’s allowed and not allowed. Find out where they stand on the specifics regarding a swimming pool enclosure. You might be required to submit a detailed plan for your construction project to your HOA for approval before you can begin.

Are there rules about styles, height, colors, or materials? It wouldn’t be surprising if the answer to that question is affirmative. You might also discover there are noise regulations and rules governing the use of any necessary construction equipment. Some homeowner’s associations even dictate where your contractor and crew are to park while completing the project at your home.

Your budget

Determine the maximum amount that you can afford to spend on your pool screen enclosure. The major things that affect the cost of your project are size, design, and the materials used.

Are you just putting up the enclosure? How big will it be? Do you just use your pool to swim laps or is it the focal point for summer gatherings of family and friends?

How about the area around the pool? Should you consider including the expense of sprucing up or replacing your pool deck too? It would certainly be better to get these things taken care of sooner rather than later. Incurring the expense now will probably save you money in the long run because there won’t be a permanent structure in place to work around.

Speaking of the structure, the type of screen that you use will affect the total cost too. You want to make sure that the screen blocks insects—even the “no-see-ums.” Ask about extra UV protection because it increases the overall life of the screen.

A reputable contractor can guide you in making the right decisions when coming out to give you an estimate. By the way, it’s a good idea to get a couple of estimates, at least, for comparison. Your contractor should not cut costs using the cheapest or shoddy building materials. It will shorten the life of your enclosure.

A pool screen enclosure is considered a major home improvement and can increase your property value to some degree.

Choosing your contractor

Deciding which contractor to hire is a process in and of itself.

You want to make sure that you get someone who is experienced and has a good reputation. Do you have friends or family that can make suggestions? It’s a great way to choose a contractor with confidence—in fact, many contractors believe that word of mouth is the best source of advertising!

If you aren’t going with a reliable source, it’s wise to get several estimates for comparison. You want to make sure that your contractor is insured and bonded. If the contractor isn’t correctly insured, you could wind up being held liable in the event of an accident during construction.

Your contractor should provide you with a written contract that includes:

  • A detailed description of all work to be completed—price included
  • The payment schedule
  • An estimated start and completion date
  • If they provide a guarantee it needs to be included within the contract
  • Signatures of both parties

Set your sites on summer fun

Once your project is completed, you are going to love the new addition to your home! Enclosing your pool is going to create a wonderful space for you and your family to enjoy for years to come.

Waging war against invading insects becomes a thing of the past. Moreover, your pool stays cleaner and your filtration system works more efficiently.

Overall, there aren’t any cons to enclosing your outdoor living space that we’re aware of. Just make sure you meet any city or home advisory requirements. The best way to do that is to find out what they are before the work begins.