The Process of Building a Pool

Winter has finally come to an end, and the days of bundling up to stay warm are over. The time for warmer weather is now, allowing you the opportunity to spend more and more time outside. While the weather has gotten warmer, it isn’t exactly the blistering heat we are used to as Texans, but it does give you plenty of time to finally install that dream pool of yours. The process of building a pool can take anywhere from 6 to 10 weeks. It is important to understand the process of building a pool if you have truly made a commitment to one.

The Process

1. Project Design: Here at Mid City Custom Pools, we pride ourselves on being pool builders that craft the perfect yet unique pool for every one of our clients. The initial first step of building your pool is meeting with one of our skilled designers to plan out just how your pool will look. Whether you want a classic geometric swimming pool, innovative free form pool, an attached spa, or even plan on adding outdoor living spaces, we will go over all of these additions and designs in our initial meeting. Once a design is settled on, our builders will survey the property it will be built on to ensure that there will be no issues with the building.
2. Acquiring Permits: Before any actual building can actually begin, we first have to make sure you receive all the proper permits and approvals, so your pool can actually begin construction. As the builder, we will acquire permits for the construction of the pool, but you as the homeowner must get the HOA, Homeowners Associations, approval. Permits for gas, electricity, and all other utilities will be obtained by those contracted to do said work. Once all permits and approvals have been acquired, it is time to build.
3. Excavation: With the plans approved and permits secured, our builders will go over to the construction site to go over the process. Once there, they will meticulously set up little boards to ensure that your pool is being built in the right location. After you have okayed the set-up, we can begin excavation. It is a very messy and dirty process, but it is necessary and unavoidable. Depending on the weather and soil condition, excavation typically lasts just a couple of days.
4. Installation of Structural Steel and Plumbing: Steel reinforcement will be placed along with the structure of the shell, providing it with the necessary strength. This steel grid will essentially act as the backbone of your pool. These bars are placed horizontally and vertically for the highest level of reinforcement. Once the steel structure has been placed, plumbing can be officially installed. Each pool’s plumbing is designed to get the best possible circulation and filtration, providing you with clean and healthy water for you to swim in. The plumbing is very particular to the shape and style of your pool.
5. Application of Gunite: Once your steel reinforcement has officially been installed, it is time to move on to the next step in the process. High-pressure gunite is applied to the steel grid in your pool through a hose by one of our skilled builders. Gunite will tightly bond around the steel, providing your pool with the best possible strength. You should lightly water the shell of your pool once the gunite has been applied at least three times a day over the next 5-7 days. Do not worry about water collecting at the deep ends of the pool since that will be pumped out before the next step.
6. Installation of Tile and Coping: If you haven’t at this point yet, you should finally decide on the type of tile you would prefer to line the walls and floor of your pool. Our builders will carefully and skillfully lay out the tiles of your pool to make sure your pool is durable and non-porous. Coping will also be applied around the edge of your pool to best compliment and protect your pool. During this time any added water features will also be applied.
7. Completion of Utilities: Any other utilities will be completed once the tiling is set. This will include finishing plumbing, electrical, and gas. These are all necessary once all of your appropriate equipment for filtration, water pumps, and other optional attachments for the pool is done. Your electrical set up will need to pass a city inspection before the construction of your pool can proceed. A gas line will also be installed if you choose to add a fire feature or outdoor kitchen.
8. Decking: The deck around your pool should reflect the overall aesthetic you choose for the tiling and style of your pool. The deck isn’t typically too large with many sitting at four inches thick also being reinforced with steel. Whatever style of decking will be completed once you’ve chosen one. Also, any of our outdoor features such as an outdoor kitchen, cabanas, and pergolas, or outdoor living areas will be installed during this step.
9. Application of Finishing: We are almost complete with your pool! The pool interior will finally be coated with a finish of your choice that best fits the design and style of your pool. Different finishes can give your pool a very distinct and unique look. It usually takes roughly 24 hours for the finish to properly cure, but once it is cured it is time to fill your pool up!
10. Filling it up and Swimming: After any access materials and dirt have been cleaned away, it is finally time to fill your pool up. One of our technicians will be on hand to make sure that any installation and equipment is up and running properly. They are also there to make sure your pool’s water chemistry is balanced. Once full, you will then be taught a few lessons about proper pool maintenance.

Building a pool can be a long and arduous process, but once the complete, you will soon realize how worth it the process can be. Mid City Custom Pools is your premier North Texas pool builders. We are here to ensure that you get the expertly crafted pool of your dreams. Contact us today to learn more about the process or start yours started today!

Steps to Opening Your Pool This Season

The cold, winter months have finally come to an end! Warm weather and sunshine take center stage again, and that means it is finally time to get your pool ready. We know how excited you are to swim and relax in your pool and throw summer backyard parties, but we also know how terrible the thought of actually getting your pool open and ready for the season can be. The whole process of cleaning it can be exhausting and arduous, but in the long run, it is totally worth it. While it can be a hassle, you only have to go through this process once a season, so join us as we go through the steps to opening your pool this summer!

Preparation: Cleaning your pool and getting it ready for use can be a long and difficult operation, so it is very important that you have all of the necessary equipment on hand to make this task easier. Hopefully, you already have plenty of this equipment on hand, but you may need to pick up a few things. Here are a few things that should help your opening:

• Pool Cover Pump
• Skimmer Net
• Chemical Start-Up Kit
• Garden Hose
• Pool Brush
• Pool Shock
• Test Strips
• Safety Goggles and Gloves

Thousands of pool owners end up in the ER with injuries, burns, or poisoning from pool chemicals, so for your own safety, have proper protection on hand. Also, having a friend to help you can spread the responsibility around and help with the removal of your pool cover.

Clean and Remove Your Pool Cover: Chances are that your pool cover has picked up quite a bit of debris in the fall and winter months. You should use a broom to sweep away most of the larger pieces you find on top of the cover. Next, you should take your pool cover pump to remove any water that has been left.

After the cover has been completely clean of any excess water and debris, it is time to finally remove it from your pool. Pool covers are rather large and heavy, so having an extra pair of hands can go a long way. Each of you should stand on the opposite side of the pool, lift it and fold it up, and then lay it on a flat surface to properly clean it. Once cleaned, fold it back up and store it until it’s needed again.

Skim the Pool: While your pool cover is designed to keep things out of the pool, nothing is perfect. Chances are some leaves and other things may have found their way into your pool. Even when taking off the cover, things could’ve fallen in. Make sure you have your pool skimmer to grab anything that made it into your pool. More thorough cleaning will be done later on, but it is important to get most of the big things out of the way first.

Remove Winter Plugs: When your pool was shut down for the winter months, we hope you installed winterized plugs to prevent water from getting into your pool’s pipes and eventually freezing. You will need to remove all plugs installed around the pool. Pool water should quickly flow back into these pipes.

You can also now reinstall all other pool accessories like ladders, slides, diving boards, and anything else you would normally have.

Raise Water Level: A pool cover’s main purpose is to keep any trash or debris from getting into the pool, but it also does a decent job of keeping water in the pool. However, it can’t completely protect your pool from evaporation, so you will have lost some water. You will need to add water to your pool to raise the water level up to avoid having to balance your pool’s water chemistry twice during your opening.

Reinstall Filter and Pump: Once the pool water has risen, reinstall drain plugs in your pump and filter. Make sure that all pumps and filters are still fully functioning before leaving them installed. Use a pool gasket lubricant on any O-rings for protection. If any part looks rusted, cracked, or worn down, replace them immediately. Power it up to ensure your whole system is running smoothly.

Clean Your Pool: While it isn’t completely necessary, you can still brush and vacuum your pool to pick up any sediment build up at the bottom of your pool and to help fight against algae and other bacteria in your pool before you shock it.

Shock Your Pool: Use a chlorine pool shock product in order to kill off any excess algae and bacteria and get your water crystal clear. The amount of shock needed depends on the size of your pool, but you will need to pour shock straight into the water slowly as you walk around its perimeter. Always remember to wear safety goggles and appropriate safety protection.

Balance the Water: You need to make sure your pool’s chemistry is safe for people to swim in. Use your test kit to make sure all your levels are safe. It even helps to run a sample to a pool supply store for safe measure. Adjust the chemicals accordingly starting with alkalinity, then pH, and finally the calcium.

Filter: Now all of the hard work has been finished, you just need to leave your filtration system running from between 24 to 48 hours to make sure the shock and any debris is removed. After this time, your pool should be ready to go!

Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy your swimming pools. From exercising and relaxing to hosting backyard summer parties, pools are exciting investments. Even though cleaning them may seem like a handful, it is beyond worth it. If you have any other questions regarding opening your pool, call the pool builders at Mid City Customs Pools to learn more!

Most Common Misconceptions About Owning a Pool

If you are considering installing a pool in your backyard, you may have some questions. There are a few misconceptions that get circled around in terms of owning a pool, but you should know what is a myth and what’s true when you are deciding on making this investment.

While there are clearly multiple benefits of owning your own swimming pool, it is a big financial decision and management commitment, however, the value of a pool is worth that and so much more. While you are always going to hear misconceptions, the decision is up to you to do your research and find out what is true and what isn’t. In the meantime, we are here to help. Keep reading to learn about the most common misconceptions about owning a pool.

You can only use your pool when the weather is warm

Luckily, this isn’t true. Sure, you will most likely enjoy using your pool the most when the weather is at its peak, but that doesn’t mean you are limited to good weather. There are a lot of ways to make your pool and backyard enjoyable all year round, and here are few:

• A pool heater – use a pool heater to keep your pool warm in the cooler weather and still enjoy it.
• A spa – a spa or hot tub is a great addition to your pool that will give you use all year round.
• Outdoor fire features – outdoor fire features are a great way to get the most out of your backyard. They create a beautiful addition design wise and set the mood for cozy winter weather.
• A solar pool cover – a solar pool cover can help keep the heat locked into your pool when the weather is a bit cooler.

Heating your pool isn’t affordable

Luckily, pool technology has developed over the years to help make having a pool more affordable and more fun. Many people steer away from heating their pools as they believe it is much too expensive, but luckily there are ways to make it affordable. Solar pool heaters can keep your pool warm by utilizing the power of the sun. They are more affordable and environmentally friendly as well. You can also look into solar pumps and gas heaters for your pool.

Pool maintenance requires all your time

Maintaining your pool is a commitment, but it doesn’t need to require all of your time, and it doesn’t have to be difficult. As long as you are consistent with your pool care, you will avoid big and expensive problems down the line. If you do it right, maintaining your pool will only take up about 2 to 3 hours per week of your time. There are even options like automated vacuums, skimmers, and chlorinators that can cut that time down by about 90%.

Swimming pools cost a ton to own and maintain

Swimming pools are an expensive investment, but they don’t have to be a ridiculous one. It’s about how you approach it. How much your pool will cost depends on the type of pool you build and how you decide to take care of it; from the equipment you buy to the services you utilize, etc.

Chlorine is bad for you

Chlorine in small amounts is actually beneficial. Actually, there is chlorine in the tap water that you drink and shower in. Chlorine keeps your water clean and clear of harmful bacteria. It is, however, important that you use the correct amounts of chlorine or it can, in fact, be hazardous.

Learning the truth about owning a pool is important when making the decision to build one. While it is an investment, it is known to be one that produces more benefits than anything else. If you are looking for a trusted and experienced swimming pool builder in Southlake, here at Mid City Custom Pools, we can help. From design to construction we will help you construct your pool in a smooth and stress-free manner to our best ability. Call us today to schedule a consultation.

Tips to Stay Safe at a Pool

Swimming and lounging by the pool are common past times here in Texas, especially during the intense heat of the summer. However, it should be noted that pool safety isn’t something to dismiss. Although pools are a lot of fun, swimming pools can be dangerous if certain precautions aren’t taken.

Did you know, according to the National Safety Council, over 3,700 people in the United States drowned in 2016? Death by drowning is especially prevalent amongst young children, babies and toddlers. For children ages 1 to 4, drowning was the leading cause of death in 2016. In order to ensure you keep your family safe around the pool as the weather warms up, you should follow these pool safety tips.

1. Install a fence around your pool
   If you have young children, pool fences are great investments to ensure the safety of your kids. While it is nearly impossible to always have an eye on your young ones, having a pool fence will give you the security that they can’t fall in and be at risk for drowning.
2. Enforce pool rules for your kids
   As pools can be dangerous, you should have a list of rules that you enforce for your children. Important inclusions should be:

• No running around or near the pool
• No diving into shallow water
• No swimming without an adult present
• No pushing anyone into the pool
• No dunking or holding anyone under the water

3. Don’t install a diving board
   Diving boards are high risk. Even for someone who knows how to swim diving boards can be dangerous. To avoid injuries, your best bet is to avoid a diving board altogether. If you do have one, ensure that there are certain safety rules in using it.
4. Invest in a pool alarm system
   Pool alarm systems alert you when the gate around the pool is opened, and some alert you when there is motion in the pool. Having one will give you the extra peace of mind when you have little ones at home.
5. Keep an emergency kit handy
   Always keep an emergency kit handy for any accidents that may occur in or around the pool. To take another step towards safety, consider learning CPR.
6. Create a non-slip environment around your pool
   Many pool injuries occur as a result of someone slipping around the pool. Pool decks can be slippery, which is why one should always be careful and never run or jump on them. Invest in a deck that is slip resistant and always check that there are no items that could cause someone to trip around the pool.
7. Have your child take swimming lessons at a young age
   A good way to ensure your kids stay safe around the pool is by teaching them to swim at a young age. While most children beginning proper swimming lessons around age 4, even babies less than one year old are taking classes with their parents and certified trainers to learn techniques to avoid drowning and it is saving lives.

Follow these tips to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe around the pool this year as the weather warms up. Keep your pool and surrounding area clean and updated to lower risk of pool accidents and injuries. If you are looking for a trusted and experienced pool builder in Trophy Club, here at Mid City Custom Pools, we can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

How to Throw the Best St. Patrick’s Day Party

Winter is finally coming to an end, and with that comes warmer weather! While we probably won’t see exceptionally hot weather for a few more months, spring is sure to bring with it weather that permits the opportunity to spend more time outdoors. St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect opportunity to begin spending more time outside by throwing an exciting St. Patrick’s Day Party! While the weather may not be just warm enough to enjoy the benefits of having a pool just yet, the atmosphere created simply by just owning a pool can add to the experience.

Tips to Throwing a St. Patrick’s Day Party

Throwing the best St. Patrick’s Day party possible is pretty simple all things considered. The holiday comes with a whole host of traditions and treats that are synonymous with the day that makes preparing to throw a proper backyard bash quite easy. Here are a few ideas and tips to execute the best St. Patrick’s Day party possible:

• Don’t Dye Your Pool Green: While you may be tempted to dye your pool green like the city of Chicago does with the Chicago River, it would not be in your best interest. Yes, the look of your pool green would add an extra layer of excitement to your backyard party, but it does more harm than good in the long run. Adding chemicals or substances to your pool alters the chlorine and pH levels. Pools require a balanced amount of each so that your pool does not get infected with bacteria. It could also lead to illnesses if swam in or ingested. The cleanup is also difficult as your pool may be stained for good.
• Green Decorations: While dying your pool water green is out of the question, that doesn’t mean that you can’t still invest in green decorations. There is no limit to the number or excess in decorations to your pool. If you already have a cabana or pergola, decorating it up to fit the theme is a sure way to make your party stand out. Add in pieces of gold and rainbows to hint at a Leprechaun’s pot of gold.
• Traditional Food: A good host always makes sure their guests don’t go hungry. There are a handful of traditional festive foods to choose from to serve to your guest. From corned beef to cabbage and potatoes, there are plenty of options to choose from to feed your party. Add in special green pastries for dessert to really please your guests.
• Classic Beverages: While drinking and St. Patrick’s Day were not always so synonymous together, they are now as intertwined as ever and with that comes special beverages to match the holiday. Beer seems to be the most popular drink of choice throughout the holiday with many going as far as dying their beer green to commemorate the day. If you do plan on drinking beer to celebrate the holiday, look no further than a true Irish classic in Guinness!

St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration and looks to be the first of many holidays in the coming months that boast the opportunity of throwing a proper outdoor party or event. If you are looking to spice up your future gatherings with a pool or a backyard renovation, look no further than your premier Colleyville swimming pool builders and backyard renovators. We ensure you that we will create an outdoor atmosphere fit for any holiday or gathering.

4 Reasons You Need a Swimming Pool

Although they have always been around, swimming pools are only growing in popularity by the year. With all of the new innovative ways to design and upkeep a pool to fit your home and lifestyle, it’s no wonder. As Texans, we love our time outdoors, however, in the Summer, a swimming pool is almost a necessity to help you beat the heat. As long as you have a savvy swimming pool builder in Trophy Club on your side, regardless of the size or style of your backyard, there is a pool design that will work for you. If you still aren’t sure, keep reading to learn 5 of the reasons you need a swimming pool.

1. Utilize your backyard more
   One of the biggest reasons homeowners are adding a swimming pool to their backyard is because it gives them an opportunity to utilize their backyard more. You will love how much time you and your family are spending together outdoors when you install a pool. Your kids will have something to do while you can relax on the side or join in on the fun. With aesthetic appeal and physical aspects of a pool, hanging outside on the deck for happy hours, backyard barbeques, etc. will become a weekly or even daily activity.
2. Keep cool in the Summer
   One of the most prominent reasons so many homeowners have pools in Texas is simply because it is one of the only ways to beat the summer heat. While we Texans love spending time outdoors, on some days it is slightly brutal unless you have a place to cool down. Having a pool in your backyard ensures easy access for you and your family to stay active outdoors and still keep cool.
3. Stay active
   Swimming has been said to be one of the best types of exercise one can engage in. It is one of the only workouts that uses almost every muscle in the body. It is easy on the joints, burns a lot of calories, promotes lean muscle, and is even known to help circulation and improve heart health. If you are looking for a way to stay active and healthy via a beneficial and low-impact workout regimen, consider a lap-type pool for your backyard.

4. Entertainment
   The entertainment value of a pool is endless. Your kids will have hours of entertainment, especially during the long summers, and you will have a place to hang back and relax. Backyard barbeques become a lot more fun when there is a place to keep cool in the summer heat. Having a pool gives you the opportunity to host get-togethers with your family and friends, from barbeques to evening happy hours.

Join the fun, and discover all that a swimming pool can offer you and your family. Whatever your backyard dreams, here at Mid City Custom Pools, we can make them a reality. If you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation to meet with one of our experts, contact us today.

Dangers of Overexposure to Chlorine

While Chlorine Does Have Its Benefits, It’s Still Dangerous

Chlorine is a chemical used to kill bacteria growth in water. It is used in drinking water, sewage sanitation, and in swimming pools. Additionally, it is also an active ingredient in a host of cleaning products. However, while chlorine is a helpful chemical when it comes to cleaning and sanitizing water, overexposure to chlorine can often lead to chlorine poisoning.

Often, for many pool owners, chlorine toxicity occurs because too much of the chemical was added to the pool or mixed with other chemicals, or the chlorination system has malfunctioned. Overexposure to chlorine can be very serious if not treated promptly.

What is Chlorine Poisoning?

While chlorine has been a helpful chemical when it comes to household cleaning supplies and purifying swimming pools, too much of it can lead to serious health complications. Chlorine poisoning can occur when you touch, swallow, or inhale too much of this substance. It can react with the water found on the surface of your skin and in certain areas in your body to produce hydrochloric and hypochlorous acid, both highly toxic.

Most cases of this poisoning occur when household cleaners containing chlorine are ingested, but it can still occur from pool water. Swallowing too much pool water can lead to chlorine poisoning. Additionally, if there is an excess of chlorine in the pool or has been mixed with other chemicals, it can lead to the production of chlorine gas that can be inhaled and lead to overexposure.

Symptoms of Chlorine Poisoning

Many individuals have experienced chlorine poisoning over the years, so it has become fairly easy to diagnose. In many cases, children tend to consume cleaning products containing chlorine. Children may also swallow too much pool water. They may struggle to express how they are feeling, so it is important to recognize these symptoms:

• Coughing
• Trouble breathing
• Fluid in the lungs
• Burning in the mouth or throat
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting
• Bloody stool
• Changing in blood pressure
• Blurry Vision
• Red and irritated eyes
• Skin damage

The severity of the symptoms may vary based on the amount of chlorine they were exposed to, the type of exposure, and the length of it as well.  The diagnosis of the exposure is easy and should be able to occur shortly after ingestion.

Treatment

Treating overexposure to chlorine depends on the way that you have ingested the chemical. If you have inhaled it, leave that area immediately and go outside to breathe fresh air.

If you physically come into contact with chlorine, thoroughly wash that area of your skin with soap and water.

If your eyes become exposed to chlorine, rinse them thoroughly with water for roughly 15 minutes. For those that wear contacts, remove them before rinsing.

Do not attempt to drink any fluids or attempt to induce vomiting if you have swallowed chlorine or chlorine water unless instructed to by a doctor.

If symptoms are severe, go to the emergency room as soon as possible.

A good rule of thumb for all swimmers in a swimming pool, especially children, is to always keep your mouth closed while in a pool. This can keep water from potentially being swallowed. Also, for those tasked with maintaining the pool’s chemistry, always make sure you are properly keeping up with the pH levels and chlorine levels in your pool. You do not want to put your swimmers at risk of overexposure to chlorine.

Chlorine has plenty of benefits when it comes to cleaning inside the house and protecting your pool and swimmers from unwanted bacteria. However, it can still be fairly dangerous if not properly managed. Overexposure to chlorine can often lead to chlorine poisoning. The team at Mid City Custom Pools is here to help you better understand the importance of maintaining your pool’s chemistry for the safety of yourself and others.

Dogs and Swimming Pools

Dogs Enjoy the Benefits of a Pool Just as Much as Humans

During the summer, humans aren’t the only ones that struggle with the heat. Our four-legged companions also have a hard time in warmer weather. There seems to be a constant stream of videos featuring dogs swimming in pools, cooling themselves off. As many pet owners and pool owners see these videos, they often question if dogs and swimming pools go well together.

It is completely understandable for pool owners to question whether it is safe for their pet and their pool if their dog goes for a swim. While the consensus is that there is no real danger, there is still some important information to know.

Not All Dogs are the Same

It is a common misconception that all dogs know how to swim. While many breeds instinctively have this ability, many still need to be taught. Some do not have the appropriate builds to be strong swimmers.

Breeds that are born to swim typically have long, strong limbs, being bred to retrieve ducks and other animals from the water for hunting. Some of these breeds are:

• Newfoundland’s
• Golden Retrievers
• Labrador Retrievers
• English Setter
• Irish Water Spaniel
• Portuguese Water Dog
• And more

There are, however, just as many breeds that are not built for swimming. These breeds have short legs that can’t properly perform doggie paddles, preventing them from staying above the water surface. Some breeds have short faces that make them struggle to keep their snouts above the water, and their small bodies make it easier for them to get colder faster. Some of these include:

• Pugs
• Dachshunds
• Bulldogs
• Basset Hound
• Corgis
• And more

This does not mean that they can’t go for a swim, but if they do, it is best that they always have supervision to make sure they are safe.

Chlorine and Dogs

Probably a large concern for many pet owners is if chlorine is bad for their dogs. While chlorine in high concentrations can be dangerous for any animal or human, it does not lead to any lasting danger when it’s diluted in pool water. Like for humans, chlorine can cause a dog’s eyes and skin to become irritated. Also, because a dog’s nose is so sensitive, chlorine can irritate it.

It is important to hose or rinse off your dog to ensure that the chlorine does not dry their skin and fur out. Also, it is incredibly important to keep any pool chemicals out of reach from children and pets as they can cause serious problems if ingested.

Dog Hair and Your Pool

Dogs bring much more debris and hair into the pool than humans do. The fur can hold fecal matter, insects, dirt, and other things. If your pool’s chemistry is properly maintained, it should handle the excess debris and cause less of an issue. It is still important to make sure the water is not ingested after your dog has swum in it. You can even shock your pool following your pet’s swim to ensure the water is sanitized.

Dogs shed in your pool, much more than a human would. While their hair is much harder on your filtration system, it will not cause it any damage. The strainer basket will do most of the heavy lifting, and then you will just need to skim to water once the hair settles. Dog hair is a very manageable byproduct.

Other Benefits and Concerns

Just like humans, pools are a fantastic exercise for dogs, both young and old. It is a great, low-impact full-body workout. It is said that 1 minute in the pool equals 4 minutes jogging. Swimming should still be used with some combination of running or walking.

The greatest danger for dogs using pools comes from drowning. Hundreds of dogs across the country suffer this fate with more going unreported. To ensure your furry family member’s safety, always fence off your pool and never let your dog swim without supervision, no matter their size.

There are a great many benefits for allowing your dog to take a swim in the pool. It is important to put your dog’s safety and comfort first as not every dog may like swimming, regardless of their breed. If you are curious about any other concern about the impact your pet can have on your pool, contact Mid City Custom Pools.

How to Get Your Backyard Ready for Spring

Texans love spending time on their patios, in their pools, hot tubs, etc. With each new season comes the opportunity to ready your backyard. We do a lot of outdoor living in Southlake, in which case, having your backyard up to standard is important, especially with the variance of the weather here in Texas.

While you invest so much time into your backyard, you want to uphold your investment by making it more livable season to season. Maybe you have a nice setup, a patio and seating area, but there is so much more you can do with your backyard to make it the outdoor living space of your dreams. Keep reading to learn about some of our suggestions for upgrading your outdoor space this Spring. 

#1 An Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen is our ultimate favorite backyard addition. The benefits of having one go on and on. You will love how much time you will spend in your backyard cooking and grilling with your family when you add on the features of a kitchen to your outdoor space.

It gives you an excuse to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather and get away from the TV and spend time with your family. An outdoor kitchen also gives you a great excuse to throw summer BBQ’s and get together with your loved ones and creates a way to spend more time together, as you can cook while your kids are in the pool and your friends and family are having happy hour on the patio.

#2 A Pergola

A pergola is another awesome backyard addition to consider this spring. Pergolas add so much to your backyard in terms of aesthetics, as well as create a more enclosed partially shaded living space. If you are looking for a little bit of shade with a lot of architectural beauty, you should consider this backyard addition.

#3 A Cabana

A cabana in Southlake is a wonderful backyard feature that many homeowners add in order to beat the heat in the intense Texas sun. While we know the sun’s rays can be sometimes overwhelming here in Texas, a cabana is a beautiful architectural addition that offers aesthetics and wide-spread protection from the sun.

#4 A Firepit

A firepit is a lovely addition to any backyard and is useful pretty much all year round. Whether you want to keep warm with a glass of red wine or hot cocoa in the winter, make smores with your family in the summer, or if you just want a fire pit for aesthetic purposes, it is a feature that does so much for you and your backyard.

Here at Mid City Custom Pools, we have got you covered for whatever your backyard needs may be. Our team of experts in outdoor living spaces will go over your options and preferences and help you create a backyard worthy of year-round living. If you have any questions or would like to set up a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Valentine’s Day by The Pool

While January always seems to go by quite slowly, we can finally say that it is February, and that means the month of love. Each and every valentine’s day is an opportunity to get creative when it comes to planning a romantic evening. If you have run out of ideas this year for your Valentine ’s setting, you’re in luck, because we’ve got a perfect idea. Don’t worry about making dinner reservations this February, because this year you are going to plan the perfect hot tub date night.

While any night in the hot tub can be romantic, proper planning for the perfect Valentine’s evening is necessary. Follow these tips, tricks, and ideas to prepare your romantic setting:

• Dinner by the pool
  Set up a nice little poolside dinner to start your romantic evening. There’s something about being outside, listening to nature, and enjoying your significant other that is extra special. Grill your favorite foods or order take-out from your favorite restaurant and enjoy it at your beautiful place by the water.
• Homemade cocktails
  Make sure your evening is complete with delicious homemade cocktails. There are plenty of drinks that are extra special and themed for romance. Try rose champagne with a dash of elderflower liqueur and strawberry half.
• Candles and ambient lighting
  There is something about candles when it comes to creating the perfect ambiance. Try sweetly scented candles or ones that give off the scents of fresh flowers. Whether it is 1 or 10, it’s up to you, but candles will surely do the trick for the perfect settings.
• Music
  Romantic or relaxing music is another important aspect when it comes to ambiance. Grab your waterproof speaker and set it poolside with a playlist of you and your loved one’s favorite love songs.
• Unwind in your hot tub
  While the Texas weather is unpredictable, it is regardless the perfect season for relaxing in your hot tub. Set up your candles around your hot tub and get the music going so you can both unwind while drinking your champagne in the water.
• At-home movie night by the pool
  If you want to go all out, you can even set up a projector to screen your favorite romance movie on one of the walls outside. An outdoor movie night while relaxing in the hot tub will undoubtedly impress your date.

• Sweets for your sweetie
  Don’t forget some delicious treats to enjoy while you are relaxing in the hot tub. We suggest chocolate covered strawberries to compliment the flavor of your champagne. Plus, it doesn’t get much more romantic than this sweet treat.

• Big fluffy robes
  Don’t forget your big fluffy robes for when you want to get out of the water. Not only will the robes create for a spa-like atmosphere but they will ensure you stay a bit warmer on a cool night.

Follow these romantic tips and tricks and you’re sure to impress your loved one with this out-of-the-ordinary Valentine’s date night.

With cold winter evenings and hot summer nights, Texas is one of the most popular places to have a pool and the addition of a hot tub. If you are looking to upgrade your pool or perhaps add on, you may be in need of an experienced hot tub builder in Southlake. Here at Mid City Pools, our trusted team can help. Call us today to set up a consultation.