Redman Pools Blog

Bye, Bye Bugs: Outdoor Living Tips from Your Houston Pool Builder

admin — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:00:20 +0000

Citronella candles offer a natural alternative to chemical bug repellents.

Pesky insects are no fun when you’re trying to enjoy a nice night outdoors. Between commercially sold insect repellent, citronella candles and natural remedies, there are different ways to protect yourself against the annoying bugs. So which one should you choose?

According to experts, DEET is the best way to get rid of insects. DEET, diethyl toluamide, can be integrated into repellent in two ways — through a controlled release formula or in high concentrations. And the control-release formula has been tested to be the most effective, as a case study published in 2002 in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that DEET at 6.7 percent did not register a bite until 112 minutes.

In that same study, citronella was also tested, and at 10 percent, a bite registered at 19.7 minutes. Citronella candles are widely available, but their effectiveness is not necessarily as strong as a product containing DEET.

Another option for insect repellent is treating your clothes with permethrin. It is effective against ticks, mosquitoes, mites and 50 other insects, and it’s considered to be biodegradable because when tested it was shown not to accumulate in the environment.

Natural remedies that include soybean oil, geranium oil and crushed chrysanthemums do repel insects, however their duration in doing so is unpredictable. The bottom line is you have to decide if effectiveness or longevity are more important for you and go from there.

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For more outdoor living tips and pool design ideas, visit our blog or find us on Facebook! To build your new Houston swimming pool and spa, contact Redman Pools.

Redman Pools is a Houston pool builder specializing in custom designed residential and commercial pools in Kingwood, Clear Lake, Cypress and the greater Houston area. 10110 W. Sam Houston Pkwy N., Suite 210 Houston, TX 77064 281-201-0148 | 281-469-0581

Choosing the Right Grill: Outdoor Living Tips from Your Houston Pool Builder

admin — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 08:44:27 +0000

Choosing the right grill is an important step of setting up the perfect outdoor kitchen.

When it comes to grilling out, not any old thing will do. Or will it? Even with lots of options on the market, there is the perfect grill for your needs just waiting to be picked up. And in order to do so, you have to ask yourself a few simple questions.

What size grill do I need? Depending on the amount of people you’ll be cooking for most of the time will determine what size grill will fit your needs.

What features do I want? Today’s grills come fully equipped with a plethora of bells and whistles, but not all of them are necessary. Decide what features are most important to you and stick to them.

What’s my budget? Grills are offered in every price point. Before you go, decide what is the bottom line you are willing to spend.

What kind of fuel will I use? Grills run off of propane, natural gas, charcoal, electricity or wood pellet fuel. Pick a fuel that is best suited for your lifestyle — are you wanting to buy charcoal when you run out or just plug the thing in when it’s time to cook?

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For more pool tips and pool design ideas, visit our blog or find us on Facebook! To build your new Houston swimming pool and spa, contact Redman Pools.

Water Features Your Kids Will Love from Your Houston Pool Builder

admin — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 22:50:35 +0000

Pool waterfalls add style and fun to your Houston swimming pool.

Nobody knows how to enjoy a pool quite like a child. From games and races to a good old fashioned splash- summer days spent in the pool are what your child dreams of on those last few weeks of school. Even if your pool wasn’t built with children in mind, it’s never too late to add some fun features. And with our custom designed water features, you don’t have to choose between fun and beauty. Here are a few water features that promise to please the youngsters while adding to the style and beauty of your Houston swimming pool.

Pool Water Slides

Gone are the days of the unattractive plastic tube slide. Our custom built pool water slides are designed to accentuate your overall pool design while offering hours of pool fun. Each water slide is crafted to fit your pool’s shape with colors and materials that complement your coping and pool deck.

Bubblers turn shallow areas into fun splash pads in this Houston swimming pool by Redman Pools.

Bubblers

Bubblers are fun water features that spout up from shallow pool surfaces like steps and beach entries. When combined with the right aesthetic lighting, bubblers can create striking centerpieces to a variety of Houston swimming pool styles. When placed on a beach entry or tanning deck, they create a fun splash pad for small children and big kids alike.

Pool Waterfalls

Waterfalls make a classic addition to any pool style and are always popular with children. Our custom designed pool waterfalls offer endless design options- from natural rock waterfalls to flagstone waterfalls and spa spillovers.

Laminar Jets

Laminar Jets arc across the water for an elegant and fun addition to your Houston swimming pool. They make for particularly fascinating water features at night when backlit with LED lights. Your kids will love chasing the glowing water!

Swim Jet Systems

Swim Jet Systems can be pricey compared to other pool water features, but well worth it for the play and fitness options they offer. Swim Jet Systems can be installed in your pool to create a current of resistance that allows you to lap swim in small spaces. The current strength can be adjusted to suit the strength of the swimmer or to facilitate various water aerobics and pool exercise routines. Under adult supervision, your kids will enjoy riding the current or practicing their swim strokes.

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For more pool tips and pool design ideas, visit our blog or find us on Facebook!

To build your new Houston swimming pool and spa, contact Redman Pools. We are a Houston pool builder specializing in custom designed residential and commercial pools in Kingwood, Clear Lake, Cypress and the greater Houston area.

How to Achieve an Energy Efficient Pool – Tips from Your Houston Pool Builder

admin — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:03:49 +0000

Solar pool covers cut energy costs from pool heating.

Whether you are into eco-friendly trends or just trying to save a few dollars, keeping your Houston swimming pool energy efficient is a great way to achieve both. There are a few things you can do as a pool owner to keep your energy consumption down and pocketbook balance up.

Energy Efficient Pool Pump

An energy-efficient pump is a great way to reduce the amount of electricity you use when operating Houston swimming pools. A key thing to look for in an energy-efficient pump is one with a timer so you can control how much you operate your pool. A pump that features variable speeds is also a great way to control how much energy your pump uses.

Pool Safety Cover

Because we can have extreme weather in Houston, swimming pools exposed to the elements are heavier on energy consumption. Adding a pool cover is a great way to keep Houston swimming pools energy efficient. It keeps heat in and prevents evaporation, as well as keeps the kids safe. There are a variety of covers on the market, so find one that works best for your type of pool.

Clean Filter

Dirty filters have to work harder and so use more energy. By maintaining a clean filter, you can reduce your pool’s energy consumption. When cleaning your pool filter, follow manufacturer instructions closely to ensure the filter continues to operate at peak levels.

Heat with Solar Energy

Lastly, heating the pool plays a pivotal role in your Houston swimming pool’s energy efficiency. We all enjoy slipping into a nice warm pool, but pool heating can eat up a lot of energy! The Red Cross tells us that we can expect a 10 percent increase in operating costs for each degree over 78 that we heat our pool water to. Why not utilize one thing Houston swimming pools have in abundance- sunshine! A solar pool cover will cut your costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

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For more pool tips and pool design ideas, visit our blog or find us on Facebook!

Santa’s Saving Days Have Arrived at Redman Pools

redmanpools — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 21:21:09 +0000

Redman Pools is located in Houston, TX. They build residential and commercial in-ground swimming pools anywhere in the Houston metro area. Their award winning design team has the experience to put together the pool design of your dreams. The designers will guide you in designing a pool that matches your family’s needs and budget.

Purchase a Redman Pool by December 25th, 2012 and receive a free gift, valued at $999. In addition to your gift you will also receive an additional 10% off the purchase of your new in-ground gunite swimming pool. Come by and meet the team, they can put a quote together for you at no obligation to you. See how much it will cost to build your dream swimming pool with these Christmas savings.

Visit Redman Pools’ showroom in The Design Center, located off Beltway 8 and West Road in Houston, TX for inspiration. Checkout our in-ground swimming pool and spa display. See the various plasters and coping color and material selections.

Our showroom hours are Monday – Thursday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm and Friday from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. You may visit the showroom during the weekend by scheduling an appointment with a designer, to accommodation your busy schedule. Redman Pools is located at 10110 W. Sam Houston Pkwy N. Suite 210 Houston, TX 77064. Give us a call to schedule your appointment at 281-469-0581 or send us an email. We offer free in-home consultations. redman-pools-christmas-sale

Houston Pool Builder Savings

redmanpools — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 17:19:01 +0000

Redman Pools is a Houston based in-ground swimming pool contractor. Their award winning design team will design a pool to your dreams and guide you in choosing a pool design and water features that match your family’s style. Their cutting edge design center and state of the art project management software puts you in the driver’s seat.

Between now and Monday, November 26th, if you purchase a swimming pool from Redman, you will receive 10% off the purchase of your swimming pool and receive a free robotic pool cleaner upgrade, Tiger Shark QC. The Tiger Shark QC is Hayward’s newest and greatest innovative cleaner. It has a robust design that cleans your pool’s floor from wall to wall. Its patented Quick Clean technology cleans any shape, size or type of swimming pool in just 60 minutes.

Take advantage of the Winter Saving Days and save thousands this winter season on your new in-ground swimming pool. Build now and have your swimming pool ready for the spring 2013.

Visit Redman Pools’ showroom in The Design Center off Beltway 8 and West Road in Houston, TX for inspiration and personally select every design detail for your dream pool. To schedule an appointment with a designer for a free in-home consultation call 281-469-0581.

Redman Pools physical address is 10110 W. Sam Houston Parkway N., Suite 210 Houston, TX 77064. Their award winning design team will design a pool of your dreams that fits your family’s needs. Complete our request form for additional information or to schedule an appointment for a free in-home consultation. Hurry in now before the sale is over. Sale ends November 26, 2012.

End of Summer In-Ground Pool Sale

redmanpools — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 21:32:44 +0000

When it comes to building and designing a luxury, tropical, or a small swimming pool customers want more than cost efficiency. Our customers want top-notch service, a professional builder and an in-ground gunite swimming pool that they will enjoy for years to come. On Saturday, September 22, 2012 Redman Pools will host their End of Summer Swimming Pool Sale at their showroom. Located in the Design Center off Beltway 8 and West Road at 10110 W. Sam Houston Pkwy N., Suite 210, Houston, TX 77064

Redman’s End of Summer Pool Sale is a one day sale only. Doors will open promptly at 9:00 am. All customers who purchase a pool on September 22, 2012 will receive a free premium robotic pool cleaner, Tiger Shark QC, which retails at $1,588. Customers will be entered to win door prizes and will be eligible for more saving surprises. Bring your family and your appetite as they will be serving ice cold beverages, delicious hamburgers and hot dogs. Redman designers will be available to price and design your dream pool. All swimming pool designs will be drawn in 3D through Pool Studio. Come tour the showroom and check out the pool tile, coping, equipment, and plaster selections. To schedule an appointment contact a Redman designer or feel free to stop by as walk-ins are welcomed.

The staff at Redman Pools has more than half a century combined of swimming pool design and construction experience. They are a well-recognized group of professionals in the commercial and residential pool industry. Don’t miss out on these amazing savings. Build your pool this fall just in time for the holidays. For promotional updates check out their Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/HoustonPoolBuilder.

Free Premiun Robotic Pool Cleaner

Involve Your Community in Water Safety

redmanpools — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 14:58:44 +0000

May was National Water Safety Month, and remember that keeping your swimming pool safe takes commitment. To help ensure that everyone remembers summer safety rules, involve your community in staying water safe. Many people live in neighborhoods that have a community pool so that everyone can enjoy cooling off in the summertime. Or perhaps several homes in your subdivision have swimming pools. Most of these neighborhood pools open on Memorial Day weekend at the end of May, so it’s a good time to start educating your community about swimming pool safety.

The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP) has some great literature to guide you on what to say and do to teach others the importance of safety this summer. They suggest organizing a community meeting so that everyone understands what the pool rules are, and to give tips on proper pool behavior. Make sure that everyone knows children should not run around the pool, and that diving in shallow water is very dangerous.

Discuss what steps have been taken to keep the neighborhood out of harm’s way, such as non-climbable fencing and properly stored chemicals. Show everyone where safety items such as life hooks and ring buoys are located so that they can be reached at a moment’s notice. Often, neighborhood pools do not have their address posted. Make sure this is prominent should a situation arise where emergency aid must be called.

Teach the community about water safety.

Another great place to hold a meeting, even if there is no community pool, is at the local library. Contact your local Red Cross or fire station and ask if someone can come out to speak about swimming safely. Often, a representative will be happy to talk to the group at no cost. You can also sign your neighbors up for CPR certification or water safety courses. These do cost around $70-$100 per person, but you may be able to get a discount for a larger group. The knowledge gained will be invaluable and may help to save a life.

At the APSP website, you can download images for free that make great fliers. Post these around your neighborhood to bring attention to this important issue. They also have public service announcements already written. Talk to your local radio station and see if the online announcer can read the ads over the airwaves. They may do it for a reduced cost, or even free as a service to the general public.

Another great idea is to talk to your child’s school. Talk to the principal about organizing a meeting in the auditorium or even placing signs up in the hallway. Again, speak to your local Red Cross and fire station to have a representative discuss swimming pool safety.

Getting the community involved makes smart swimming sense. If everyone understands pool safety, everyone can chip in to make sure the entire neighborhood uses caution around the pool. Redman Pools wants to see everyone have a safe and fun summer at the pool this year!

10 Safety Concerns for Parents with Pools

redmanpools — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 15:59:57 +0000

By: SummerNanny

One of the quickest ways to become the most popular parents on the block is to install a swimming pool in your backyard. Guaranteeing hours of fun through the dog days of

Fencing and Gates – Whether you opt for an in-ground or above-ground model, your new swimming pool should be surrounded by a tall fence, ideally with the only entrance originating within your home. If you do decide to install a gate, it should be designed to only open from the inside to prevent wandering neighborhood children from slipping in while you’re away and swimming without supervision. summer, pools are the centerpiece of a great backyard bash and a delight for all ages. There are, however, a few safety concerns that parents should acknowledge before opening their new oasis to the public; here are ten of the most important:

Swimming and Water Safety Courses – Kids should attend swimming and water safety courses, or at the very least be thoroughly instructed by parents about appropriate pool-safe behavior before being allowed to swim. Strong swimming skills can save lives in the event of an accidental fall.
Insist on Supervision – Young children should always be supervised while in or around the pool, even if they’re strong swimmers. Unattended, children can engage in risky behaviors that could lead to severe injury or even drowning.
Ban Horseplay – Running and rough housing should be strictly forbidden in the pool area, as water can render even wooden surfaces slippery. Even relatively mild head injuries can result in momentary loss of consciousness, which could be deadly if the child falls into the pool and is unable to swim to the surface.
Drain Entrapment – Kids and adults alike can potentially find their hair, clothing or limbs ensnared in a pool drain that is lacking a VGB-compliant drain cover. After installation drain covers should be checked regularly for damage.
Emergency Preparedness – CPR and first aid training is a good idea for all families, even those that don’t own swimming pools. For those that do, this training becomes essential; check with your local Red Cross for open classes to ensure that everyone is as prepared as possible for any emergencies that may arise before your pool officially opens.
Electrocution – Any electrical appliances, including radios and stereos, should be positioned far from the pool’s edge to reduce the risk of electrocution. If possible, invest in battery-powered radios or MP3 player docks and keep all electrically-operated components clear of the pool area altogether.
Lighting – Your pool area should be well lit, with motion-detecting security lights positioned to illuminate the area if it’s approached. Kids shouldn’t swim at night, but there does need to be enough light to prevent injuries from lowered visibility should someone in the family need to enter the pool area after dark.
Toddlers – Families with toddler or preschool-aged children should be especially vigilant, perhaps even considering surface alarms that will sound if a body enters the pool. Small children are fascinated with water, and can slip away into the pool area unnoticed which could result in tragedy.
Dive Safety – Kids should be instructed on proper diving techniques, and taught never to dive into the shallow end or into an above-ground pool that isn’t deep enough to prevent head and neck injury.

With the proper safety measures, your swimming pool will be a joy for every member of your family for many years to come. Take the needs of your family into consideration and personalize your safety features accordingly to enjoy your new pool without incident.

For more articles from SummerNanny

Water Safety Isn’t Just About Swimming

redmanpools — Mon, 28 May 2012 16:58:46 +0000

When you think about being safe around the pool, the first thoughts that come to mind are about water safety. And as National Water Safety Month reminds us, it is very important to exercise caution while spending time around the pool. However, that is not the only thing to be concerned about.

Sunburns are a major problem during the summer months. You have to make sure that you protect your skin from the sun’s dangerous rays. The best way to do this is to apply, and reapply a sun block with at least 15 SPF. Also, CancerCare.org recommends using a sunscreen that is labeled “broad spectrum” to ensure that you are protected against both UVA and UVB rays, which are the two harmful types of sunlight.

Also, be sure to choose a waterproof sun block so that as kids swim, they continue to be protected. Sunscreen should be reapplied often, about every two hours or even sooner. Be sure to apply the sun block lotion all over. People often forget places like the tops of the ears and the head wherever there is a part in the hair or a cowlick. Wide-brimmed hats and light, protective clothing are a good idea when you aren’t in the pool.

Another summertime concern is swimmer’s ear. Also known as an outer ear infection (distinguished from an inner ear infection), this painful illness is common for anyone who spends a lot of time in the pool. MayoClinic.com says it’s to be sure that you keep ears dry. After getting out of the pool, dry the outer ear and tip the head to the side to drain out any water inside the ear. Another good idea is to use earplugs. They can be purchased cheaply and do help in swimmer’s ear prevention.

It is critical to keep your pool and spa clean. Hot tubs can be a breeding ground for bacteria when the chlorine and pH are not kept at the proper levels. You need to be sure to not only keep the chemicals right, but to scrub the spa as well. Keeping a swimming pool clean is also critical for several reasons. For one, if the water in the pool is not clear, you may not be able to see if someone is drowning under the water. Secondly, keeping a pool clean also helps prevent damage to your filters and pumps. Furthermore, maintaining a clean swimming pool keeps potentially harmful bacteria at a minimum.

Being safe around water is absolutely important, but drowning isn’t the only concern. Keep all chemicals locked up and away from the reach of curious children. When you leave the pool area, put away all of the toys and floats so that children aren’t as tempted to enter the area and possibly fall into the pool. From all of the team at Redman Pools, have fun and be safe this summer!