Latest from Pools by Bradley - Pools By Bradley

Poolside Fire Features

Good news, everyone. Fire and water DO mix! In our world of custom pool building and integrated backyard designs, adding pool features (bubblers, waterfalls, sun shelves) is becoming more and more popular. One of the most popular being the addition of fire features which add a very elegant flare to any backyard. There are many ways to add flames to your pool, from fire pits and fire bowls to fire walls and outdoor kitchens. The sky’s the limit. No matter which you choose, fire features add style and warmth to your landscaping while creating a comfortable space to socialize with friends and family. Fire Features for Your Pool Fire Pits One of the most popular fire features added to backyards are fire pits. Regardless of the amount of outdoor space you have available, fire pits are a great feature in any backyard. They come in a variety of price points and are available in all kinds of materials, such as steel, concrete and brick, so you’re sure to find the design that works for your backyard oasis. They can be gas, propane or wood-burning and are most times placed or built into a sitting area; however, you can also choose to have a fire pit that is built into the pool’s perimeter wall, making it part of the pool itself, not a free-standing structure. This area becomes the focal point at outdoor gatherings and the best part is they can be used year-round! Wrap yourself up in a cozy blanket Read the full article...

New Smyrna Beach Open House

Hello Spring Open House We’ve officially opened our newest location in New Smyrna Beach with a ribbon cutting ceremony…now it’s time for a party! We would like to cordially invite you to our HELLO SPRING open house on March 16th from 10am-4pm located at 151 Wildwood Drive. We wanted to do an open house but, in true Pools by Bradley fashion, we didn’t want it to be a standard open house like everyone else does. So, we decided to do something a bit different. We are asking that anyone who comes to bring a copy of their survey so we can see what we’re working with. There may also be the possibility of having a pool designed right on the spot! Or, at the very least, we’ll get one started. We will have plenty of designers on hand for the duration of the open house, ready and eager to answer any questions, set appointments and design pools. All those who bring their site surveys will be entered into a drawing to WIN a FREE pool cleaner!! Not ready or even thinking of building a pool but curious about our new location? Please pop in and say hello and grab some BBQ while you’re at it. We’d love for you to check out our new digs and see what Pools by Bradley is all about. Don’t forget to bring the kids – we’ll have a Kona Ice truck present as well! There will be lots of other freebies to take home Read the full article...

New Smyrna Beach Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Ribbon Cutting for New NSB Location

On January 15, 2019, with much excitement, we had our official ribbon cutting ceremony for our newest location in New Smyrna Beach. There were several members of the Southeast Volusia County Chamber of Commerce who came out to show their support of our new NSB home. Our Pools by Bradley team joined in the fun too! The morning of the ribbon cutting ceremony we served coffee, bagels and donuts for all those attending. Bradley and Megan talked about the warm reception that Pools by Bradley has received from the NSB community since opening our doors and also about the building itself. Then it was time for the cutting of the ribbon. The best part was getting to use those big, giant scissors you always see in ribbon cutting ceremonies! Afterwards, all in attendance went to the local fish house for a seafood feast. Everyone was in great spirits and there was lots of talk about our new challenges in the beautiful NSB market. Why a second location in New Smyrna Beach you ask? Well, we’ve been visiting the area for years (since college) and have always loved the NSB community. We saw there was a need for a custom pool builder in the New Smyrna/Daytona beach area and, after much investigation, we were able to find the perfect location. The building we purchased was an old, dilapidated home that we completely rehabbed, and we added an addition on as well. A total fixer upper! It was a lot of work, Read the full article...

The Pool Building Process

The decision to build a pool is a big one, and building a pool is a big job! It is something that takes time and the process can be tedious, but the more informed you are, the easier it is for everyone. You’ll be giving up your backyard for a good chunk of time, around 10-14 weeks once the pool shell is shot, but we promise to keep you informed of our progress throughout the project. Our goal is to deliver you a pool as quickly as possible without compromising quality. So, what exactly should you be expecting to happen once you pull the trigger to build your dream pool with Pools by Bradley? Take a look at the steps below to learn about each phase involved in the process of building your new pool from start to finish. Project Design and Approval The very first thing you will do is have a meeting with one of our expertly trained design consultants. It is during this meeting that your design consultant will find out what exactly you are looking for, your design preferences, and get an overall idea of your vision. Every one of our clients has different tastes and we design pools specifically for each of our customers. One of our technicians will also take a detailed survey of the proposed area where your pool will be built as well as take dimensions of your home and lot. They will also examine positioning, look for any building setbacks, note Read the full article...

NOW is the Time to Build Your New Pool

Many people wonder what time of year is the best for building a new swimming pool. The answer is really anytime! However, here in Central Florida, fall and winter are the ideal seasons for building a pool especially when considering our weather. Here are some of the reasons now is the time to pull the trigger on building your dream pool. Your Pool Will Be Ready for Pool Season The excitement of your very first pool party is felt among all new pool owners. Inevitably, there will be some delays (inspections, weather, electricians); however, it is safe to say that if you start construction on your new pool in the fall or winter, it will be ready by the start of pool season. Pools by Bradly’s construction time from once the pool shell is shot is 10-14 weeks. This puts you at the perfect spot to have your very first pool party by the first day of summer! Plus, if you want to add patio furniture or pool games, fall is a good time to find them on sale. Avoid Weather Delays & Messes It’s a fact that fall and winter weather is much calmer than the spring and summer weather here in Central Florida. The storms that roll through in spring and summer can be detrimental to keeping on schedule with pool construction. In fact, according to the Weather Atlas, from May to mid-September, Orlando is hot and rainy with high rainfall averaging between 3.6″ and 7.3″ – the Read the full article...

Pool Heater Benefits

In many areas of the country, the summer months are when pool season is in full swing; however, here in Central Florida, we are typically able to enjoy our pools in Spring and into Fall. That doesn’t mean that the pool is the right temperature for everyone. Many times, kids will jump in the pool when the water is well below any temperature that is comfortable for an adult. So why not extend the pool season, backyard barbecues and get-togethers with family and friends? You can do this by installing a pool heater or heat pump! The benefit of an extended pool season is just one of the many pluses to heating your swimming pool in the winter months, and even during the summer months! Not only will you add many hours to your recreational time, but you also have a great venue for low-impact exercise. Here are just some of the many benefits to installing a heater to your swimming pool. Benefits of Installing a Pool Heater Comfortable Swimming Season Even in the summer months, heating your pool water makes for a more comfortable swim season. Depending upon your pool’s location, the amount of shade over it and if there is a pool cage around it, swimming pool water may only reach around 75 degrees. The ideal swimming pool water temperature for most people is between 82 and 84 degrees. This temperature can fluctuate further naturally due to inclement weather, which we are all used to here in Florida Read the full article...

Pool Spa Health Benefits

When building a pool, we see many people add spas to their design for a variety of reasons. Some may want a spa to relax in at the end of the day, others for the sheer enjoyment of it. Whatever the reason, there are actually a lot of health benefits to pool spas, both mental and physical. Here are a few of the benefits you’ll get out of adding a spa onto your dream pool. Better Sleep Quality sleep plays an important role in your overall health and well-being. In fact, it has been proven that maintaining a regular sleep schedule that provides quality REM sleep benefits not only your mind but also your body. It improves your immune system, rejuvenates your muscles, increases your metabolism and heightens mental alertness. So how does this tie into owning a spa? According to the National Sleep Foundation, your body will ease into sleep easier with a drop in body temperature. By raising your body temperature in a spa before bed, your body temperature will be regulated to a comfortably warm level that helps in falling asleep longer and staying asleep. Just make sure you don’t use the spa too close to when you plan on crawling into bed. Soak in your spa about 90 minutes before you plan to go to bed for around 20-30 min. This allows for your body temperature to increase and then have time to drop and ease you into a long night’s sleep. Exercise & Lower Blood Read the full article...

Understanding Different Pool Shapes

When you’re planning the design of your new pool, one of the most fun parts of the process is choosing the size and shape of your pool. There are so many options to choose from, however, that it can become a bit overwhelming. There are many factors that go into selecting the size and shape of a pool. How many people will be using the pool? What is your landscape like surrounding the area where the pool will be installed? What is your personal taste when it comes to free-flowing lines, curves or angles? Whatever your preference or large or small the number of people using is, there is a pool shape that is perfect for you! Pool Design Options Free Form One of the most popular pool shapes, a free form pool is rounded and shaped to fit right into your backyard. They come in no particular shape, but are rather molded according to the space available, the surrounding terrain and artistic preference. In line with its name, free form pools are free flowing in design and do not fit into any other category. They are also a perfect option for a yard that’s starting off as a blank slate. You are able to customize the landscaping to fit the flow of the pool, from palm trees to sun shelves…. the possibilities are endless. Geometric If you like sharp lines and clean corners, then a geometric pool design is for you. The geometric pool shape compliments many homes’ architectural Read the full article...

Christmas winter decor for your pool and backyard

Winter Holiday Pool Decoration Ideas

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, everywhere you go! From retail stores to grocery stores, holiday decor is at the forefront and the holiday party planning has begun. And while most people in the northern states have to plan for indoor parties, here in Central Florida, we get to enjoy the outdoors almost year-round. Even if we do get a chill in the air, the weather here enables us to continue entertaining outside throughout the winter months. So, let’s continue on with the holiday decorating ideas for your pool and back yard for Christmas and New Year’s Eve! Check out these awesome tips to bring the winter holiday decor outdoors for everyone to enjoy. Christmas Christmas…it’s the most wonderful time of the year! With the children’s anticipation of Santa coming to gatherings with family and friends, it is a time to really get everyone in the holiday spirit. Check out these ideas to decorate your pool and backyard to make your Christmas party one to remember: Trim the Trees: You’ve decorated your inside tree, but how about your outdoor trees? Get some extra plastic ornaments on your next trip out and hang them on the greenery around your pool. Place large ornaments in the big trees and add colorful regular sized ornaments in your small trees and shrubs. You can even float some of the large faux Christmas tree bulbs in your pool! Watch your kids’ eyes light up when they see Christmas inside and outside. Floating Candles: Read the full article...

Maintaining your Florida Pool During the Winter Months

Caring for Your Florida Pool in the Winter Months

Maintaining Your Pool During the Winter Months As the holiday’s approach, winter maintenance for your swimming pool is probably not the main topic on many people’s minds. You also may, or may not have, heard of “winterizing” your pool. That’s because the term has different meanings depending upon where you live. In the northern states, it is somewhat common practice to drain and cover a swimming pool as the winter months approach to prevent pipes from freezing. In Florida, however, there is an entirely different set of important steps to keep our pools properly maintained year-round. The following is a list of the top four things that every Central Florida pool owner should do to maintain their swimming pools during the winter months and the beginning of the spring season. Continue to Clean Your Pool Maintaining your cleaning routine, even if you’re using your pool less or not at all, is still very important during the winter months. Leaves continue to fall this time of the year, so debris traps can become clogged and dirt can build up, obstructing your pool’s filtration system. Old leaves can also cause stains on the sides and floor of your pool and promote algae growth, both of which increase your effort and costs when swim season comes back around. Continue to keep your filter clean, use a leaf skimmer to remove debris and leaves from the pool’s surface and clean up any sunken debris with a pool vacuum. Your pool and your wallet will Read the full article...

Fall Holiday Pool Decorations

The holidays are upon us! And while your backyard pool is usually the focus of fun during the summer, there’s no reason you can’t keep it the focus for the holidays. Halloween has passed, Thanksgiving is 2 weeks away and then Christmas and New Years will be here before we know it. Luckily, the weather in Central Florida still allows us to enjoy being outside even when it gets chilly, so why not keep entertaining your guests by decking out your beautiful backyard for the holidays? Here are some fun ideas on how to decorate your pool and back yard for the upcoming fall holidays. Stay tuned for winter holiday decorating tips! Halloween Halloween is always a fun holiday to really go over the top – and your pool is a great place to take your decorations to the next level. Try out these Halloween decoration ideas to transform you pool into spooky scene everyone will enjoy: Pool Dye: First things first – find a non-toxic party pool dye that won’t run the risk of staining your pool (very, very important!). Coloring your pool water is a great way to bring your pool into the decoration mix. You can go for an eerie red or ghoulish green to really take your outdoor Halloween decor to the next level. And don’t worry, within three to five days the color will filter out. Lighting: Lighting is always the best to give your decorations that extra-spooky effect. Strobe lights, lanterns and lots of Read the full article...

Clever Ways to Upcycle Your Pool Noodles

Pool noodles are a staple in almost everyone’s pool. They’re inexpensive, take up little space and provide a fun way to float around kids and adults – as well as pets! However, as we’ve all experienced, pool noodles don’t have a lifetime warranty, especially in the heat of Central Florida and their constant exposure to chlorine and other pool chemicals. Luckily, pool noodles are very versatile and can be played with in so many different ways! So what can you do with all those pool noodles when swimming season is coming to a close? Here are some clever ways to use those pool noodles before they disintegrate in your shed or garage and make them into something that is new and entertaining. Pool Noodle Ponies Want to take your foam noodle sword jousting match to the next level? Make some pool noodle ponies to ride on while you duel! You won’t be cutting the noodle this time, rather bend the noodle 1/3 of the way down the length. Take some twine and tie it tightly around near the bottom where the noodle meets below the bend to keep it in place. To create ears cut a piece of felt (any color is fine!) so it is about 7″ long and 1″ wide and slide it between the section of the noodle that is folded. Secure with hot glue. Cut another piece for the main the same length but make it 4″ wide and hot glue onto the back of the Read the full article...

Backyard Enhancements – Take it to the Next Level

When you’re building your outdoor oasis, plans don’t stop at the pool. You want a beautiful backyard around your pool that feels warm and inviting, cool and especially peaceful. The space should welcome relaxation, entertainment and especially FUN! You want places to sit, sounds to enjoy, colorful surroundings and maybe a spot for cold drinks and food. When designing your backyard to further enhance your amazing pool, there are many different features and additions you can add to take your outdoor oasis to the next level. Pools by Bradley offers numerous options when it comes to backyard design from outdoor showers to pergolas, we also have entertainment options that can be added to enhance the recreational time that you will be spending in your new outdoor environment like outdoor kitchens. Here is some additional information on the additions we offer to help take your backyard to the next level: Backyard Enhancements Outdoor Showers Outdoor showers are a great addition to any backyard with a pool. You may think of an outdoor shower as something you’d find at a beach house, and while that may be true, the benefits of outdoor showers don’t stop at salt and sand. An outdoor shower is the perfect spot for cleanup and changing after a dip in the pool. They’re also a handy area for getting the kids cleaned up without tracking everything in the house. Have a lot of guests this summer? Shower space for everyone. From a one-stop dog-cleaning spot to a post-gardening Read the full article...

How to Fix a Green Pool

As the summer rolls on along in Central Florida, we’ve all become acclimated to the daily late afternoon rainstorms. As much as our lawns and plants need the water after sitting in the hot summer sun all morning long, our pools do not. As we discussed previously about how the heavy rains can throw off your pool’s chemistry, now is the time when it can be critically important to keep on top of the situation. Some rain may be very acidic, therefore affecting both the alkaline levels and the pH of your pool water. When heavy rains fall that have a pH of about 5.0, it can result in lowering the pH balance of your pool – which should always stay at a balance of between of 7.4 to 7.6. It is when this happens that some Central Florida and Orlando area residents may experience GREEN swimming pool “syndrome”. If not taken care of right away or immediately, the pool algae can get out of control very, very quickly. The following are the reasons why your pool turns green and what you can do to get it back to being swim-ready and sparkling. Why Do Pools Turn Green? As more rainwater fills your swimming pool, the chlorine levels become diluted. When the chlorine in a pool goes below 1 ppm (parts per million), algae has the perfect scenario to start growing. Once the algae grows it will begin to change color, which is when you’ll first begin to notice that greenish Read the full article...

Draining Pools That Are Too Full

Here in the Orlando and Central Florida area, we are accustomed to heavy rains, especially those late afternoon storms during the summer and fall months. Most of the time these storms are welcomed, as a good rain usually cools down the temperature and provides our lawns and landscaping a much needed watering. Hurricane season has also just begun, meaning we are more susceptible to perhaps seeing some big storms. When strong storms like tropical depressions or hurricanes do hit, they can dump too much rain on our property, including excessive water being “dumped” into our pools. But what do you do when your pool’s water level gets too high? Plus, exactly how high is too high? Here’s what you need to know about draining your pool, when to be concerned, and how you can lower your pool’s water level. Draining Your Pool to Lower the Water Level Accumulation of excess water is one of the largest problems caused by heavy rains and is the cause of multiple problems. When your pool overflows, it can lead to debris and extra runoff in your pool and can also flood your pool equipment like the filters and pumps (an essential and expensive component to your outdoor recreational space). Even if your pool doesn’t overflow, yet the water rises enough from a heavy rain, your surface skimmer will no longer effectively skim the surface debris into the skimmer basket and draining it back to the correct level is necessary. If you know a hurricane Read the full article...