Backyard Product Showcase - Pools, Swim Spas, Gazebos, Enclosures & More

Product Showcase:
Latest & Greatest Products for Your Backyard

A backyard is meant to be more than something you just see out your kitchen window. It’s a place to relax in the open air of the outdoors, enjoy the beauty of nature, host a family barbecue, and entertain a crowd. So what can you add to your backyard to both create and maintain such an inviting space? The choices can be overwhelming, and you may not know where to start.

That’s why Pool & Spa Outdoor Design is presenting a select variety of products to help homeowners keep their pools, spas, and outdoor retreats looking beautiful and running smoothly. In addition to showcasing some of the new and most popular products from leading manufacturers, we also spoke to company experts to learn what each brand has to offer.

Read on to learn where to find a pool builder, and discover which products keep your pool safe, clean, and sanitized. See exquisite enclosures and new swim spa models while browsing water features, weatherproof TV’s, and gazebos that are sure to add excitement to your outdoor space. Once you know what’s on the market, you can create your own ultimate backyard.

The learn more about the experts featured in this section, go to the Experts' Bios page.

Swim Year Round

CCSI International, Inc., manufactures and distributes world class Garden Prairie Pool and Spa Enclosures and open roof systems to residential and commercial customers. Garden Prairie custom enclosures allow homeowners to bring their aquatic outdoor activities inside and swim year round, rain or shine. The company offers a full, state-of-the-art engineering package designed to meet property-specific needs. Along with custom color choices, the superstructure includes insulated, light-transmitting polycarbonate roof glazing and an opening roof system specifically designed to welcome the nice weather in and keep the inclement weather out.

“Garden Prairie Pool & Spa Enclosures, manufactured by CCSI International, Inc., offer the benefits of an indoor pool with the look and feel of being outdoors. The insulated light-transmitting roof panels can be manually or electronically opened to allow in natural breezes, or closed during inclement weather. Our enclosures offer the eco-friendly benefits of conserving heat, reducing chemical loss, and preventing evaporation.” —Cynthia Caldwell, Co-Founder, National Sales, CCSI International, Inc., manufacturer of Garden Prairie Pool & Spa Enclosures • www.ccsiusa.com

Easy Testing

AquaChek has introduced an easy and innovative way to test your pool and spa water without color matching. The AquaChek TruTest Digital Test Strip Reader reads the colors for you! Simply dip the strip into the water, then insert it into the reader; in 30 seconds, the free chlorine, pH, and total alkalinity values will appear on the screen. Running on two AA batteries, this water-resistant digital reader makes regular water testing simple for any pool or spa owner.

“We created AquaChek test strips to give pool and hot tub owners the fastest, easiest, and most accurate way to monitor the health of their water. Fast and simple testing has made AquaChek the world’s highest-selling test kit. And when testing is easy, owners test and treat their water more often, resulting in fewer problems and more time to relax and enjoy their pools and hot tubs.” —Jon Brew, Managing Director, Hach/ETS (makers of AquaChek), A Danaher Company • www.aquachek.com

Designer Waterfalls

Molded from natural boulders for a realistic look and texture, RicoRock’s cast rock is composed of reinforced concrete made to last the lifetime of your pool. RicoRock products are installed with basic masonry skills and include waterfall kits, boulders, and coping treatments. Besides affordable standard designs, RicoRock offers consulting services for custom projects with preferred dealers nationwide. New color patterns and waterfalls with a rounded boulder look are now available.

“Because cast rock weighs only a fraction of the real thing, it is easier and less costly to transport and install. Using RicoRock makes popular features such as sheet falls, cascades, and grottos more economical than most natural rock installations, while offering the same beautiful look.” —Tom Bench, Manager, Construction Services, RicoRock,® Inc. • www.ricorock.com

Safety Measures

The HydraLux is an energy-efficient pool cover that utilizes extruded PVC slats to create a buoyant floating pool cover. Due to its unique design characteristics, the HydraLux is versatile and is now able to provide automation on pools that cannot accept traditional track-style covers. In addition, six different color choices and various installation methods make it suitable for even the most complex pool designs. With the HydraLux, the only limitation is your imagination.

“Aquamatic Cover Systems is a family-owned company that has been manufacturing Automatic and Manual Safety Cover Systems since 1980. Innovation, solid engineering, and quality service have been the company’s strong points. The HydraMatic, HydraLux, and EZ-Cover models suit almost every pool application and budget so pool owners can protect their loved ones, while saving on pool-related expenses, including chemical care and equipment maintenance.” —Tom Dankel, Vice President, Aquamatic Cover Systems • www.aquamatic.com

Prime Performance

The new WhisperFloXF™ high-performance pool pump by Pentair Aquatic Systems was developed using the advanced engineering tools—CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and FEA (Finite Element Analysis). The impeller design delivers a higher level of precision concentricity for increased efficiency. Advanced hydraulics allow for smooth internal water flow, which means faster priming, less turbulence, and maximized performance. With flow capabilities in excess of 200 gallons per minute, WhisperFloXF is an ideal choice for many pool applications, especially water features, negative edges, and waterslides.

“Pentair Aquatic Systems produces innovative and reliable pumps, cleaners, filters, heaters, LED lighting, and more. The products in our Eco Select™ brand minimize energy consumption, water use, and noise pollution, benefitting both the environment and homeowners in many ways. Pentair unites pool owners, future owners, and industry professionals in a fun, supportive, and educational environment. Visit http://poolfyi.com.” —Carlos DelAmo, Vice President of Marketing, Pentair Aquatic Systems • www.pentairpool.com

Swim Like a Champ

The Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spas by Master Spas were designed with the valuable input of 14-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps, his coach Bob Bowman, and a team of Master Spas’ experienced engineers. Catering to all fitness levels, this line of swim spas allows for year-round aquatic exercise and hydrotherapy. The Wave Propulsion Technology™ creates a wide, smooth current that can be adjusted to many different speeds. Jetted seats are installed on every model to provide the benefits of both a hot tub and a swim spa.

“Master Spas is proud to be the only winner of two Consumers Digest Best Buys during their most recent testing. Our wide range of product lines is tailored to fit anyone’s backyard and budget. Whether you’re looking for the state-of-the-art Twilight Series Spas or the Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spas by Master Spas, we’ve got your Ultimate Relaxation Machine.”
—Bob Lauter, CEO, Master Spas® • www.michaelphelpsswimspa.com

Elegant Options

Anthony & Sylvan Pools has added fiberglass pools to their product offerings. This premium line of fiberglass pools combines the quick installation and low maintenance of fiberglass with elegant design options, stunning finishes, and captivating water features. With the addition of spas, tanning ledges, and other construction capabilities, Anthony & Sylvan believes that these fiberglass designs provide customers with an option that perfectly complements its signature custom-designed concrete pools

“Anthony & Sylvan Pools has over six decades of experience in the pool industry. When we decided to expand our product line to include fiberglass pools, our mission was to create the strongest and most durable in the industry. Greater selection of shapes and finishes and the highest quality materials are the key to our
success.” —Tom Casey, Vice President of Sales, Anthony & Sylvan Pools • www.anthonysylvan.com

In the Shade

The ShadeRight Fixed Canopy is another shade system exclusively provided by Backyard America. The watertight EdgeLock™ polycarbonate panels block 99 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. The solar gray panels block 80 percent of visible light, which provides a comfortable amount of shade. The ShadeRight Fixed Canopy system can be added to any of Backyard America’s Vinyl Potomac or Fiberglass Williamsburg pergolas, or to an existing pergola.

“Backyard America is an outdoor structures company located in Manassas, Va. The company, now celebrating more than 20 years in business, specializes in manufacturing and distributing pergola kits, gazebos, railings, lighting, canopies, and other outdoor products nationwide. Product selection is based on offering quality products at a fair price. Backyard America prides itself on its excellent service, easy-to-follow instructions, and affordable prices.” —Ernie Sears, President and Founder, Backyard America • www.backyardamerica.com

Photographed by Ernest Sears

Reduce Energy Costs
Hayward EcoStar Pool Pump

The EcoStar® variable-speed pump by Hayward Pool Products is efficient at any speed and can save pool owners up to 90 percent (as much as $1,500 a year) on energy costs over a single-speed pump. Suitable for both new construction and pre-existing pools, EcoStar matches pump flow to a pool’s needs, so pool owners won’t need to run their pump at full power 100 percent of the time. Hayward’s line of Energy Solutions products also includes pool cleaners, filters, heaters, heat pumps, sanitization, chlorination, automation, and lighting.

“Hayward Pool Products considers the complete pool owner experience with each product. That includes energy costs, environmental efficiency, safety, and maintenance, among many other considerations. EcoStar® is the next generation of variable-speed pumps, providing the ultimate energy savings opportunity, complete user convenience, and quieter operation. For added protection against entrapment, a second model is available with an integrated Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS).” —Scott Petty, Product Manager, Pumps and Aboveground Equipment, Hayward Pool Products, Inc. • www.hayward-pool.com

Relax in Style

Lucite® cast acrylic surfaces with Microban® create hot tub and spa shells that give users a smooth and relaxing spa experience. The Microban® antimicrobial product protection inhibits the growth of bacteria that can cause odor, stains, and product degradation. And because the protection is built into the shell itself, it won’t wear off over time. The non-porous weatherable material provides easy maintenance and exceptional durability. Available in beautiful solid Lustres, elegant marbled effects, and natural stone-like finishes, it’s easy to match any home’s décor.

“Lucite International is a leader in the design, development, and manufacture of acrylic-based products serving the architectural and industrial fields. Lucite® remains a respected brand in the spa industry thanks to the outstanding features it offers for hot tubs and portable spas. The company is constantly looking ahead to develop innovative products that meet the changing needs of the customer and market.” —Chris Robinson, Business Manager, Lucite International, Inc.• www.todaysspas.com

Outdoor Entertainment

Enjoy home theater-quality viewing in the great outdoors with SunBriteTV’s new model 4630HD all-weather outdoor TV. This 46-inch full-HD 1080p LCD television is built for permanent outdoor installation with SunBriteTV’s all-weather feature set that protects the TV from rain, dust, insects, and extreme temperatures from 122 to -24 degrees F. The superb picture quality is enhanced by an anti-reflective window that protects the LCD screen and eliminates 95 percent of ambient reflection. SunBriteTV’s line of products are UL or CSA tested and certified for outdoor use.

“If you’re thinking of installing a pool, spa, patio, or any other outdoor amenity, you’re likely to be spending more time outdoors. SunBriteTV is proud to offer all-weather outdoor TV’s that can be added to the backyard at any time, helping you to create the ultimate outdoor room for entertaining and spending time with family. You can enjoy the same high-quality TV experience you’d normally have indoors, while being outside.” —Lynn Stearn, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, SunbriteTV • www.sunbritetv.com

Tropical Retreat

A Blue Hawaiian fiberglass inground pool does more than create a place for swimming and fun—it is a solid investment in your property and its value, and a delightful long-term addition to your lifestyle. Blue Hawaiian fiberglass pools combine long-lasting durability with aesthetically pleasing designs. These pools are made using a state-of-the-art composite technology and Extreme Quartz,™ a leading technology in the manufacturing of fiberglass pools and finishes. You can enjoy countless hours of relaxation, gatherings of family and friends, and the beautiful reflections of the water for many years to come.

“Blue Hawaiian prides itself in manufacturing quality fiberglass swimming pools that bring added value to any backyard application. With Blue Hawaiian Fiberglass Pools you are getting peace of mind that your pool was built using the finest raw materials and building techniques in the industry. We do this so you can focus on creating your own backyard haven and relax the day away.” —Stacy Nelson, Director of Marketing, Blue Hawaiian Fiberglass Pools, a division of Viking Pools, LLC • www.bluehawaiianfiberglasspools.com

Photo courtesy of Blue Hawaiian Fiberglass Pools; Landmark Pools

A Network of Experts

To maintain membership with Aquatech®, a National Society of Pool-Building & Retailing Professionals, independent pool builders have to consistently meet rigorous standards of reliability, quality, and industry knowledge, and maintain a superior level of customer satisfaction. Each pool retailer member provides pool and spa owners with a wide variety of quality products at competitive prices and is committed to providing knowledgeable service with helpful solutions. Using their talents and skills, Aquatech Society’s professional pool-building and retail members help homeowners achieve their dreams of a beautiful backyard oasis.

“Aquatech Society is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious association of pool-building and pool-retailing professionals. We have been connecting homeowners with our expert independent pool builders and knowledgeable retailers for almost 50 years.”—Jeff Fausett, President & CEO, Aquatech,® a National Society of Pool-Building & Retailing Professionals • www.aquatechpools.com

Photo courtesy of Aquatech Pools by John Clarkson; Photography by Ben Brewer

Filter It

Designed to maximize water flow, Pleatco pool and spa filter cartridges are made from high-quality raw materials. The cartridges’ media (filtration fabric) uses the latest antimicrobial technology from Reemay with Microban.® Microban antimicrobial protection inhibits the growth of bacteria on the filter and works continually for the life of the cartridge. By maximizing the filtration area, PleatcoPLUS cartridges increase water flow while also creating a uniform flow through the entire cartridge, which extends the life of the product and improves the cleanliness of the water.

“A properly maintained filter will keep the pressure down, keep water flowing smoothly, and reduce wear and tear on your pump. Pleatco pool and spa filter cartridges use Free-Flow Cores, rather than drilled PVC pipes. The Free-Flow Cores provide maximum water flow for effective, energy-efficient filtration. As a leader in the science of filtration, Pleatco is proud to offer innovative products made from the highest quality raw materials.” —John Antretter, Chief Operating Officer, Pleatco, LLC • www.pleatco.com

The Competitor’s Pool

The paddlewheel design in the SwimEx 600S swim spa has an adjustable current that extends 28 inches deep and generates a powerful flow of 30,000 gallons per minute, challenging even the most competitive swimmers. A 60-inch water depth enhances workout options, while homeowners can add a 12-inch or 24-inch deep well for more non-weight-bearing workouts at 72 inches or 84 inches of water depth. Up to three 2-foot extensions can be included to increase the pool’s length.

“SwimEx swim-in-place pools are unique in the way the water flows as well as how they are built. Our fiberglass construction provides the strength to handle the water flow of 25,000 gallons per minute and our pools can be molded in colors to match your décor, providing an investment not only in your health, but in your home as well.” —Mark Pearson, President, SwimEx, Inc. • www.swimex.com

A Safe Choice for Your Family

Manufactured from incredibly strong materials and securely anchored into the pool deck, a LOOP-LOC safety cover provides a virtually impenetrable shield to prevent children and pets from gaining access to the water. LOOP-LOC’s extra-dense mesh covers block virtually all sunlight, but let rain and melting snow easily drain through. The company recently introduced a line of elegant luxury liners for inground pools to further enhance the look of your backyard.

“Safety is what LOOP-LOC is all about. Our pool covers are built with the strongest, highest quality materials to keep your family safe. In fact, a genuine LOOP-LOC® Safety Swimming Pool Cover is the only pool cover in the world proven safe and strong enough to support the weight of an elephant. Please visit our website to learn about all our ultimate quality products.” —LeeAnn Donaton-Pesta, President and CEO, LOOP-LOC, Ltd. • www.looploc.com

Built to Last

Viking Pools manufactures quality one-piece ceramic composite fiberglass pools in a variety of shapes and sizes. Its line of inground pools offers a wide assortment of built-in features to help homeowners create beautiful pools that fit their lifestyle and aesthetic. The company’s many different options include exclusive colors and finishes, various tiles, water features, vanishing edges, and much more. Viking’s large network of dealers serves throughout the U.S. and internationally. Visit the company’s website to locate a dealer in your area.

“Our advanced composite pools are composed of top quality ceramic, resin, gel coat, and fiberglass materials. All of our manufacturing practices are in compliance with ICC standards so every pool is built to stand the test of time. Our pools carry a limited lifetime warranty, invoking peace of mind. The goal of Viking Pools is to create captivating swimming pool designs while offering a lifetime of fun for you and your family.”
—Tom Straub, President, Viking Pools, LLC • www.vikingpools.net

Safe and Protected

Safety is one of the most important aspects of pool ownership. With a removable mesh safety fence by Guardian Pool Fence Systems, Inc., you will have a primary layer of protection that prevents children and/or pets from accessing the water. Every Guardian pool fence is custom-built and installed to fit the specifications of your pool. Available in a variety of styles and colors, these mesh fences do not block the view of your pool and are easily taken down when your pool is closed for the season.

“The goal of Guardian Pool Fence Systems, Inc., is to keep your family safe by preventing children from gaining unsupervised access to the pool. Our mesh safety fences have been independently tested and certified to meet ASTM F 2286 requirements. Our fencing systems feature our optional, climb-resistant, U.S.-patented, self-closing, self-latching, key-locking gate to provide a safe, functional, aesthetic, and effective barrier around your pool. We have been certified to meet many building code requirements all over the U.S and Europe.”
—Steven Sadinsky, Founder, President, and CEO, Guardian Pool Fence Systems, Inc. • www.guardianpoolfence.com

Pool/Spa Care Resource

Pool chemical value packs from In the Swim take the guess work out of pool chemistry by providing all the materials you need for a safe, clean swimming environment. These convenient chemical kits are formulated and pre-measured according to pool size and come in a variety of packages to suit every pool care need, including winterizing kits, spring and summer chemical kits, and chlorine start-up kits. Chemical packs are available for aboveground pools, inground pools, saltwater pools, and even hot tubs.

“In the Swim is a catalog and online retailer for pool and hot tub/spa supplies, as well as backyard accessories. We take pride in maintaining the highest level of customer satisfaction and offer everything from pool/spa chemicals, covers, and equipment to floats, waterslides, outdoor lighting, patio furniture, and more. In the Swim provides special offers via email newsletters and ships anywhere in the continental U.S.” —Barry Pace, CEO, In the Swim • www.intheswim.com

Elite Builders of Custom Pools

A family backyard resort or estate pool starts with the homeowner’s vision. The challenge is finding a builder who can capture that vision and execute it flawlessly. Master Pools Builders are experts at doing just that. In addition to each elite custom pool builder’s expertise, they have the advisory resources of over 100 members of the Master Pools Guild. The Guild is committed to its goal of building the world’s finest pools and in meeting any challenge a homeowner’s vision entails.

“The Master Pools Guild is a global network of eminent custom pool builders whose mission is to build the world’s finest pools. Their secret to achieving this goal is simple—members freely share creative ideas and technical information with each other. Membership is by invitation and earned by being leading custom builders in their respective areas.” —Dick Covert, Executive Director, Master Pools Guild • www.masterpoolsguild.com

Photo courtesy of Artistic Pools, Inc.

Catch the Current

The Absolut Bimini swim spa model by Swim Spas Plus is an ideal way to get fit without making a trip to the gym or local pool. At 19 feet long, this dual-temperature combo unit is a great value, costing only $13,900. It includes a four-person hot tub area while also providing plenty of room to swim laps against the adjustable-speed current at the opposite end. Choose from four different colors for the interior shell, and grey or redwood colors for the cabinet/siding.

“Swim Spas Plus is a division of Tulipani Enterprise, Inc., a family-run corporation that offers a diverse line of swim spa models. Established in 1976, our company has over 35 years experience working with an extensive international and national customer base. Our goal is to distribute exclusive high-quality products that are unmatched in the industry and market them at a wholesale price. We offer quality products and optimum value.” —Vittorio Giovanni Tulipani, Founder/Owner, Swim Spas Plus, a division of Tulipani Enterprise, Inc. • www.swimspasplus.com

Weather or Not

For over 40 years, Carolina Solar Structures (CSS) has built and installed custom swimming pool and spa enclosures, sunrooms, and greenhouses. Bright and airy, these enclosures provide year-round use, no matter the weather, and give a contemporary look that blends with every venue. Each pre-engineered structure is available in clear or bronze-tinted polycarbonate roof glazing, and bronze or white aluminum framing, as well as a variety of other colors. Sliding glass doors, motorized roof systems, sidewalls, and gables are a few other options homeowners can select.

“Enclosures by Carolina Solar Structures offer year-round use of your pool, as well as protection from weather conditions, insects, debris, heat loss, and evaporation. The retractable polycarbonate roof panels vary in thickness to provide the optimum R-value for cold climates. They are also customized to meet regional requirements for withstanding snow and wind.” —Robert Thompson, President and CEO, Carolina Solar Structures • www.carolinasolar.com

Soothing Aromas

Rx Therapy crystals are the latest rejuvenating aromatherapy products from Spazazz. Rx Therapy crystals are the only hot tub aromatherapy crystals on the market to feature a special blend of holistic ingredients designed to heal joint inflammation, muscle aches, stress, and respiratory congestion. Spazazz also offers eight exciting new aromas in its Set the Mood line, including Margarita and Strawberries and Champagne, that are sure to add some “spazazz” to your hot tub experience. Both fun and therapeutic, Spazazz aromatherapy products are also affordable, ranging from $5 to $19.

“With 17 years in the spa aromatherapy industry, Spazazz is proud of its leadership role and unmatched reputation for first-class products and first-class customer service. Every Spazazz product is an all-natural blend of minerals, herbs, and botanicals for the ultimate aromatherapy experience. Aromatherapy preferences are individual and distinct, and Spazazz provides a wide variety of scents and therapies to heighten your soaking experience.”
—Angie Pettro, President, Spazazz Global LLC • www.spazazz.com

Experts' Bios

For more information about any of the experts quoted in this section, go to the Experts' Bios page.

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