General Information

In this video Tony Walton discusses the main features of the new Whitsunday 35 Lounger, part of the new Lounger Series for 2016. 

The new series comes in beautiful colors and vibrant styles and features a lounger. The Whitsunday lounger can be accessed from the inside of the pool or at the entry point. There is plenty of room to fully relax and the lounger has a ledge to raise your head above the water and support the neck for the ultimate in relaxation. A safety ledge surrounds the edge exposed to the swim lane which is perfect for getting in and out of the pool and onto the lounger.

The Whitsunday 35 Lounger offers dual entry point steps along the front side of the pool, with dual entry stairs and benches at the other end. The pool also has a large swim lane of 35 feet, which is plenty of space for swimming laps or having fun and relaxing.

Barrier Reef now has over 30 models of fiberglass pools and spas to choose from. These pools come in various shapes, sizes and colors to fit most backyards and personal styles.

Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools is pleased to announce the soon to arrive spring season. It is coming and its right around the corner and if you are considering an in ground fiberglass pool from one of our Quality Builders now is the time. 

Believe or not Spring is right around the corner and before you know it you feel a different when that March sun hits you and thoughts of hot days to come. This is also the time people start thinking about putting a in ground swimming pool in there backyard and early research is important if you want to get swimming this summer.

Its important to start early in order to get your design budget in line with your expectations so gathering fiberglass pool costs, landscaping and options together is crucial before diving in.

Talking to builders early will reduce your stress for all parties during this process, because Builders have more time to answer your questions and are more available before the peak of the season starts.

For a builder near you fill out our contact form or call us at our phone number.

Lots of views and claims about Salt water swimming pools hopefully this short article helps to clarify The Good, the Bad and the Ugly on Saltwater Sanitation for your pool.

That Panel and Cell chlorination system tucked away nicely with your pool equipment has a large responsibility. It is there to help keep your family’s swim health and enjoyable. The cell performs electrolysis on the dissolved salt and produces Hypochlorous Acid (HCIO, which is typically used to prepare tap water for consumption) and Sodium Hypochlorite (NaCIO, which is basically an oxidizer). Those are the sanitation agents that kill the various types of bacteria in your pool. Now to take a complicated explanation we are talking about taking a hard dissolvable product (Salt) and turning into chlorine.

Advantages of Salt Water Chlorination;

The most talked about positives of salt water is the smell, taste and overall ‘feel’ of the swim water. There are no harsh chemical smells and you are less susceptible to the red irritated eyes, scratchy skin and fading bathing suits. Typically a salt water system is installed with a control panel and cell system that adjusts the settings based on your input.

Disadvantages of Salt Water Chlorination;

While the process of creating Hypochlorous Acid and Sodium Hypochlorite is essentially creating chlorine gas , just in a smaller amounts. So technically you are still using chlorine in your pool. The initial installation cost is higher than chlorine but in line with Ozone/UV sanitation methods however you will need to replace the cell periodically which can carry a $300 – $600 cost based on the size of your pool. Speaking of the cell, you may also need some time in the library to understand how to balance your water, there are many claims that it is maintenance free but just like everything there is a learning curve. The truth is PH balancing becomes a little more challenging and testing frequently is important using your home test kit and once a week at your local pool store.

The Ugly…

Based on certain initial water types such as hard water (Hard water being deemed at calcium of over 100ppm) you may find that your pool walls may be accumulating a buildup for either vinyl liner , concrete and fiberglass pools. It just means more time monitoring and adjusting your water balance until you have a solid grasp on the basics. Until then you can always take a sample of you water to a local pool store and they can assist you – but ask for an explanation on why they are making specific recommendations.

Its not really maintenance free ,you still have to clean your pool and use all other chemicals required to keep your swimming pool safe. Hard to say if costs are lower we find PH management usage is more frequent and keeping chlorine at health Canada’s recommended range of 1.0 ppm to 3ppm (optimum 1.5) a little tricky.

There is good reason why it’s difficult to present approximate costs to a broad Geographic market place.

How much does a fiberglass pool cost?

Understandingly this is typically the number one question people ask or think about when researching a purchase of an in ground pool. The web gives people a mountain of information that informs and educates the ins and outs of fiberglass pools, but when looking for estimated cost so they can at least set budgets and feel comfortable before they start to call for quotes. The information they receive can be ambiguous because the answer is very broad and is based on assumptions that may or may not apply. There is good reason why it’s difficult to present approximate costs to a broad Geographic market place. I have listed some below:

• Where you live will have an impact on your cost, whether in cooler climates in the North and the milder climates in the South.
• Access has an impact on costs for excavation and installation 8 ft. is considered good access.
• Crane access and distance from the road or driveway to where the pool is going. Obstructions to consider are mature trees or hydro lines that may require a specialized or larger crane.
• If a basic install is considered to be 1 light, heater, filter, salt system, 10 inch concrete collar around the pool and pump. Everything else is an option for example, spa jets, waterfall feature, automation, extra lights, etc. each option adding hundreds to thousands of dollars to the cost.
• Size of pool that you choose will have an impact, going from a 30 ft pool to a 40 ft will be a modest increase in cost.
• How far the equipment is from your main utilizes gas meter and Hydro.
• Decking and landscape choices can be by far the most difficult to estimate because of 100’s of choices and types of decking available as you can see by the galleries of the websites you have visited.

So based on the variables above the question still is how much does a Fiberglass Pool cost? Always budget on the high side and pat yourself on the back if you are below it taking into account good backyard access with no obstacles, just basic pool package with no decking and landscaping for a mid-size Fiberglass pool $35,000 to $40,000 plus relevant taxes. For decking and landscapes it can average $15,000 to $25,000. Keep in mind the options are limitless when creating your backyard oasis by adding an outdoor kitchen, gazebo, cabana, etc. The price can add up very quickly and before you know it you’re into a $100,000 project.

Let there be light…

UV has a bit of a bad rap. Typically the “UV Index” will tell us how much time we can spend in direct sunlight, or how much sunscreen we have to put on. Well now UV has come to be our friend when sanitizing your swimming pool. While some are saying that UV Sanitizers are the best on the market for its sanitation, water clarity and simplicity but there are a number of reasons why they may be right.

What is the theory behind UV Sanitizers?

Basically the Ultraviolet light destroys over 60 known pathogens and microorganisms with no chemical by product residual. It is very safe to use, easy to install and requires little to no maintenance while having a low initial startup and continuous monthly cost. Other methods combine 90% of workload to Oxidization and 10% for sanitation however UV does both. There are no harsh odours, red eyes, skin irritation or asthma/allergy flare ups with UV.

That all sounds good but how does UV work?

Basically a UV system is installed just after the filtration system. A device is installed that blasts the passing water with a very large amount of UV light. The UV light will take on the same process as Ozone and will destroy and prohibit the regrowth of certain cells; algae, bacteria, cysts, viruses and chloramines – which is the chlorine by product that makes your eyes red and your skin scratchy. Your pool surface is also safe since there is no chemicals left behind. Most UV systems are the same price if not less expensive than traditional chlorine or salt systems with automated panels. Affordable solutions for UV are around $1400 and the bulbs last around 4-7 years and cost a measly $190 to replace.

So if you are looking for a safe, non-chemical solution for keeping your pool clean and safe you may want to look into a UV or Ozone/UV combination system.

Verdict :

Ozone/UV combination appears to be the Utopian solution for sanitizing your pool without harsh chemicals.

What about Swimming Pool Ionizers?

Basically an Ion is an atom that has an electrical charge. The use of copper to attract algae and kill it, and also stopping the regrowth of algae.

How does it clean my pool?

Your pool actually already has a form of Ions in it. When your pool is installed a device is installed right into the plumbing that has a copper element in it. Electricity is introduced to the element and ultimately the water that will enter your pool. Once the charged particles enter the pool they will float until they encounter a microorganism – causing an attraction that allows the current of the water to push the contaminants away into the filtration system.

Electricity in my pool? That doesn’t sound good…

To be honest that is not a concern. Many concerns surrounding Ionization have promoted alternate methods of sanitizing and maintaining the chemical balance in your pool. If your local environment has a hard water challenge (Over 500ppm or more) there will be some cleaning required at the device containing the copper as it will accumulate scaling. Additionally you want to use the Ionizer limited amounts, with another Sanitation methods in conjunction and keep your pool below 80F. Although the water will still be safe it could stain lighter hair to a greenish colour or even worse – stain can build up on the walls and surface of your pool.

Verdict:

This is an ionizer it uses silver, copper and zinc in sintered metal electrodes. Silver is not an EPA recognized sanitizer. We try to get metals out of the water to prevent staining and this puts them back. So jury is still out on this one.

1. Create a wish list.

You may have been thinking of a swimming pool for years, and you may think you know exactly what you want. But it pays to read up on the latest technology and gather ideas. Once you’ve done some research and have an idea of costs and budgets the next steps become easier.

2. Find a look and pool style you like.

Pool builders and designers appreciate when customers come to them with pictures from magazines or swimming pool photo galleries, or images you have seen on the web while researching. This will give a pool builder a good sense of what you’re interested in and provides context of whats possible.

3. Researching the three types of in-ground pools.

A swimming pool is an Expense and an ongoing concern, just like a car or a home. You wouldn’t just buy any car on just any lot, would you? The same rules apply. There are many ways to build a swimming pool. Some are made of concrete, others are made of fiberglass, and still others are vinyl (see our blog about swimming pool types) And that’s just the first step. Coping, cleaning systems, filtering systems, artistic finishing touches. The list of variations goes on and on. Getting up to speed will allow you to speak a pool builder’s language and be more confident in the decision-making process.

4. Find a credible pool builder.

Once you’ve made the decision to dive into swimming pool ownership, the best way to ensure a smooth building process is to choose a seasoned swimming pool construction company . Interview several candidates, and ask about their building philosophies. A good pool builder will offer examples of his work, provide references (be sure to check them), and be able to answer relevant questions.

5. Decide on the swimming pool shape you want.

Swimming pool design is critical to both the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve and what you can actually do in the swimming pool. Rectangular designs are perfect for people wanting a classic, timeless look. They’re also great for games and swimming laps. Kidney and free-form swimming pools can blend with the surrounding vegetation and appear more natural.

6. Know how you want to use your pool.

Stop and think about why you’re installing a swimming pool. Is it for your kids? For entertaining? Is it an investment? Do you want it to make a dramatic architectural statement? Or is a relaxing retreat for you and your spouse? Answering these questions will help tell you what kind of swimming pool you want. A swimming pool for kids might include a slide and a wading area. It probably doesn’t need high-end glass tile finishing or a vanishing edge. But if you want something that is as visually appealing as it is enjoyable to use, you might consider a built-in water feature, more expensive coping, and a negative edge. A client with a clear sense of purpose is a builder’s best friend.

7. Establish a budget.

You probably already know what you’re willing to spend on a new swimming pool, but it’s important to speak with pool builders to get a sense of what your project will cost. Your pool builder will be able to listen to what you want and give you an estimate on what it will cost to make it happen. You may have to adjust your plans or your budget.

8. Consider long-term costs.

Owning a swimming pool does have costs and are dependent on area you live in and type of equipment you have. .Upkeep, especially if you take a few energy-saving steps (more on that below), can reduce your costs. But it’s best to have an idea of what those costs are. Factor in how much water it will take to keep your swimming pool full, cleaning and water maintenance costs, any accessories (pool covers, filters, toys, etc.) and warranty costs when it expires.

9. Check your local building codes.

Yes, , it’s a good idea to know the rules yourself. Some areas require perimeter fences of a certain height. Some require the fences to lock. Others require a fence around only the swimming pool itself and conservation authorities restrictions if applicable . You’ll also want to inquire about building permits, building restrictions, noise policies, and property tax concerns.

10. Home insurance.

When establishing a budget, don’t forget to think long term. Contact your insurance carrier and find out if the costs remain the same or will increase. Regardless of costs it is highly advisable you let them know you will be installing a in-ground swimming pool.

11. Know what you want up front.

Adding an option to a swimming pool is never as easy as the initial install. So, if you really want that waterfall or extra light, go for it. Better to do it upfront not in the middle of the install , it could cost you considerable more.

12. Eco-friendly.

Some shy away from swimming pools for fear of their environmental impact, but the industry has worked hard in the last few years to make pool owners a steward of the environment . Today’s pools can be heated almost entirely using solar energy. There are even swimming pools filtered using totally natural methods—an attached pond does all the work—and many chemical water treatments can now be replaced by less harsh natural alternatives. Swimming pool covers also reduce the amount of water lost (and then replaced) due to evaporation. Fiberglass swimming pools are considered eco friendly by its construction and never needing to drain the water.

13. Don’t forget water features.

Elegant waterfalls, spouting sconces, bubbling fountains—people love water features almost as much as the swimming pools themselves. If you’re interested in adding a few jets to your swimming pool, though, it’s best to do it during the initial construction. Retrofitting can be tricky (and sometimes impossible, depending on your swimming pool and what you want done) without a major remodel. It also costs more than twice as much, typically, to install water features after the fact.

14. Plantings

This is especially important when thinking about your budget. You won’t want that swimming pool sitting in the yard by itself, so consider what you’d like to plant and where. Avoid planting messy trees (pecans, gums, sycamores) or trees with far-reaching, shallow root systems (some oaks, birches, cypress) near your swimming pool, for instance. Instead go with bushy perennials that don’t grow as tall and can be moved if necessary.

15. Safety

Beyond any required fencing your local codes require, consider what other safety measures you’ll want to have in place. Swimming pools can be equipped with alarms to alert you when someone or something enters the water. Child-proof locks on gates, and security alarms on windows to the backyard are also considerations.

16. Think about finishing touches.

Things like coping, decking, and borders can make a swimming pool stand out. The materials used for each vary—stone, concrete, ceramic and glass tile—and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Discuss with you designer which options are right for you.

The more research you do the more you empower yourself in making the right decision whether its which pool type or how to find the right pool builder or just defining your budget. Its important that you put the effort in understanding the process and the time it takes from to start to swimming.

Why we are the best fiberglass pool manufacturer?

Barrier Reef Pools Canada, why we are the best fiberglass manufacturers and where quality and integrity are our core values.

Barrier Reef brand of Fiberglass swimming pools are built and manufactured under ideal factory conditions from preparing the Steel mold to curing. Our Fiberglass pools use absolutely Zero fillers that could adverbially affect the structural integrity of your fiberglass swimming pool, barrier reef only uses the highest quality, purest components with no inert ingredients and a Glass Fiber laminate process that far exceeds US Standards. We have built our Manufacturing reputation as best in class in quality, Strength and no compromise when building our pools.

Your Barrier Reef Fiberglass swimming Pool will be able withstand ground movement and frost heaves the structure is so strong it comes with a lifetime structural warranty that’s transferable we just don’t say the words we build it into the product. Because Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools has been using our formula of sparkle Gel coat for over 2 decades we offer an unprecedented 15 year finish warranty the longest and most comprehensive in the industry.

Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools Canada is proud to offer Canadians the best and strongest pool money can buy, without sacrificing classically beautiful designed fiberglass pool models. Click on the link below to see our full range of our elegant in ground fiberglass pools

Proudly announcing two new fiberglass pool models

Barrier Reef Pools LLC and Barrier Reef Pools Canada are pleased and excited to announce the new Outback series of in ground fiberglass swimming pools for United States and Canada for spring 2015.

The sleek rectangular design is perfect for families that want a beautiful elegant design that meets there functional requirements and provides options for there backyard oasis.

With two swimming pool size options the Outback provides families with smaller yards or ones who want a fiberglass pool in their backyard, not a backyard that’s a swimming pool the outback 23×11 is a perfect option.

If a grander sleek model is what your looking for then the Outback 30 provides great landscape design flexibility and options.

We believe with denser new home development in Southern Ontario and smaller land sizes the new models will provide families looking for fiberglass swimming pools now have a perfect option with the Outback.

Outback key Features:

• Seven beautiful colours that sparkle in the sun
• Energizer seat option
• Wide access entrance stairway
• Bench seating for your guest
• Swim ledge
• End to end swimming lane
• Contemporary design that never goes out style
• Perfect for a swim spa option

The first step to your backyard dream begins with a little spray paint, and strategic planning by the crew that will be performing the excavation and installation. With best case scenarios of great access for the equipment, good weather and no setbacks this portion can take only hours up to a few days. We are going to take you through the steps recommended by Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools for proper excavation right down to the step before the pool is set in place.

Prepping the Dig Site

Before the Fiberglass pool can be dug there is some prep work that is required. Guidelines as to how far the waters’ edge needs to be from the fence line are put in place by the City you live in and although they are typically 5’ from the fence line to the waters’ edge, it can vary from each location.

From there a printed dig sheet is used to calculate the measurements required. The dig sheet will have the excavation site divided into portions so the correct depth is dug. The outline of the actual pool is sprayed on the ground with a “12 inch over-dig” to allow for side access of the pool once it is placed on the bedding. The size of the over-dig can vary based on the shape of the pool and the arrangement of the benches and seating in the pool shell.

Breaking Ground

The first step once the pool is sprayed out is to set the calculations for the height of the pool. Typically this information is gathered for your application for in ground pool enclosure package that is submitted to the City.
This is used to set the height of the top of the coping stone after the pool is installed. From there the calculations can be made as to how deep the hole needs to be dug. For this a laser system and/or transit is used throughout the excavation process.

Once the layout is sprayed and the calculations have been made it is time to start digging the hole. Based on the access at the side or back of your home will determine the type of excavation “production line”. If you have good access then you will typically have an excavation machine in the backyard, a skid steer to transport the waste earth and a bin and truck in the front for the disposal of the dirt.

If you have smaller access there are a few options; a front bucket track system that is only 42” wide or a conveyor system that is set up to transport the dirty away to an awaiting bin. The front bucket option is similar to the skid steer process but it does take more time for the excavation because the vehicle moves slower and typically needs to be driven delicately down the sides of homes with smaller access. The conveyor system is just as it sounds, a belt driven series of pulleys and belts that runs along the side of your home with a 36” width lifting the dirt away even in the most difficult and narrow situations. Both of these options may add $1200 to 4000 to your project but won’t stop you from installing your pool.

Prepping the Base

Once the hole is excavated to the proper elevation the base material that the pool will sit on needs to be prepared. If the soil type in the backyard is clay we recommend High Performance Bedding (HPB) as it is approximately 97% compact and is a great for any underground water. If the native soil is sand it is recommended that the base remain sand but back fill the sides with HPB. Either way the base material should only be approximately 3” – 4”. The builder will either use a stake and string guide or “tracks” that are constructed to provide a consistent grading of the base to match the dig sheet.

Once the bottom is smooth and prepped it is time for the next step; the arrival of the pool.

Once the hole has been dug and the soil is removed the next step in the process of transforming your backyard – there may be a huge mess of mud and dirt now but you are not far from the final touches.

Leveling

After placing the pool on the gravel bed, the floor of the pool is walked on to ensure that there are no voids or humps that were formed during the placement. Water is then added to the pool simultaneously along with backfill. Continuous checking of the levelness of the pool is critical.

Plumbing

While water and backfill is being done, connecting the plumbing from the pool to the equipment pad location can be completed.

Deck Preparation

After water and backfill have been completed, gravel is prepped for what whichever type of decking will be surrounding the pool. Typical decking includes concrete or pavers. Finally leveling and shape adjustments and bonding are done at this stage.

Pool Coping and Deck

At this point the concrete decking, pavers or combination of the two are installed around the pool. Integrating accessories and features such as handrails, ladders, water sheers and deck jets.

Finished Pool

With the pool decking complete, and the yard cleaned up, the swimming pool is officially turned over to the owner.