Pool Sport Game Ideas, Maintenance Tips and More
The latest helpful articles and tips on pool maintenance, decorating ideas, and the latest pool sport equipment to enhance your outdoor water fun.
Pool Sport Game Ideas, Maintenance Tips and More
Ideal Pool Shapes & Sizes for Semi Inground Pools
Known for being a balance of both above-ground and inground pool, semi-inground pools are ideal for people who want to save a few dollars with installation, but still reap the benefits of an inground pool. They're also aesthetically pleasing and can be designed in various shapes and sizes.
Pool Shapes & Sizes for Semi Inground Pools
Keep reading to learn more about the different pool shapes and pool sizes for semi-inground swimming pools. We'll discuss the available ways to create your own semi-inground pool in this blog.
Semi-Inground Pool Shapes
Here are ideas for semi-inground pool shapes:
Rectangular
The most popular shape for semi-inground pools is the rectangular shape. This classic design is perfect for lap swimming and creates a modern, sleek look in your backyard.
Oval
If you're looking for a softer, more organic shape, consider an oval semi-inground pool. This shape is great for families and creates a more natural look in your backyard.
Round
A round semi-inground pool is perfect for those who want a simple, classic design. This shape is ideal for smaller backyards and can create a cozy, intimate pool experience.
Kidney-Shaped
The kidney-shaped semi-inground pool is a unique and eye-catching design that's perfect for those who want something a little more playful. This shape is great for families and creates a more natural look in your backyard.
Semi-Inground Pool Sizes
Here are the various semi-inground pool sizes in detail:
Small
If you have a small backyard or limited space, a small semi-inground pool might be the perfect option for you. These pools typically measure around 12 feet by 24 feet and can accommodate up to six people comfortably.
Medium
A medium-sized semi-inground pool is perfect for families or those who like to entertain. These pools typically measure around 16 feet by 32 feet and can accommodate up to ten people comfortably.
Large
If you have a larger backyard or want to create a more luxurious pool experience, a large semi-inground pool might be the right choice for you. These pools can measure up to 20 feet by 40 feet or larger and can accommodate up to 20 people comfortably.
Semi-Inground Pool Factors to Consider
When choosing the shape and size of your semi-inground pool, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to think about:
Budget - The size and shape of your pool will have a significant impact on the overall cost. Be sure to factor in additional costs, such as installation and accessories, when determining your budget.
Available Space - Consider the available space in your backyard and choose a pool that will fit comfortably in your yard without overwhelming the space.
Usage - Think about how you plan to use your pool. Do you want to swim laps, host parties, or simply relax and cool off? The shape and size of your pool should reflect your intended usage.
Design Aesthetic - Consider the overall design aesthetic of your backyard and choose a pool that complements the existing landscaping and architecture.
Maintenance - Keep in mind that larger pools will require more maintenance and upkeep. Be sure to factor in the time and cost of maintenance when choosing the size and shape of your pool.
Create Your Backyard Oasis with the Perfect Semi-Inground Pool Shape & Size
In conclusion, choosing the right shape and size for your semi-inground pool is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your backyard oasis. By considering factors such as budget, available space, usage, design aesthetic, and maintenance, you can choose a pool that perfectly fits your needs and your backyard. Whether you prefer a classic rectangular design, a playful kidney-shaped pool, or a cozy round pool, there's a semi-inground pool that's perfect for you.
Dunn-Rite Pool Products & Pool Accessories
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Pool Fountains - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball
Pool Deck Ideas
Transform your pool deck into a cozy, inviting escape you want to hang out this summer. After checking out all of our pool deck ideas we're hoping you find some inspiration and motivation to decorate your pool area.Pool Deck IdeasFrom going the natural route to a tropical haven, we've covered all the best ideas that are trending for this year. Keep reading to learn the latest and greatest pool deck ideas.Au Natural
One of the most popular pool deck ideas is to go natural. By leaving your decking natural and allowing it to weather over time, you can create a beautiful, silvery-grey look that blends perfectly with your pool and the surrounding landscape. Plus, this is a low-maintenance option that requires little upkeep.Pop of Color
If you're looking for something a bit more vibrant, consider adding some color to your pool deck. Whether you opt for a bold, bright shade or something more subdued, a pop of color can instantly liven up your outdoor space. Just be sure to choose a durable and weather-resistant material that will stand up to the elements.Tropical Oasis
For a truly relaxing and serene outdoor space, consider surrounding your pool deck with lush greenery. By adding potted plants, hanging baskets, or even a vertical garden, you can create a peaceful and private oasis that feels like a natural extension of your home.Mix N Match
Don't be afraid to mix and match materials when it comes to your pool deck. By incorporating different textures and colors, you can create a dynamic and visually interesting outdoor space that reflects your unique style. Consider combining natural stone, wood, and concrete for a modern yet rustic look.Create a Lounge Area
Finally, if you're looking to make your pool deck more functional, consider creating a dedicated lounge area. By adding comfortable seating, a shaded pergola, and some ambient lighting, you can transform your pool deck into a cozy and inviting space that's perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing on a lazy summer day.
The creative ideas are endless when it comes to transforming your pool deck into your ideal spot. Whether you opt for a natural look, add some bold color, surround your deck with lush greenery, mix and match materials, or create a dedicated lounge area, the possibilities are endless. So why not get started on your pool deck makeover today?If you're interested in learning whether or not you can put chairs in a pool read this blog.Dunn-Rite Pool Products & Pool Accessories
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Pool Fountains - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball
Pool Party Cocktails
Who doesn't love a great cocktail? There’s nothing that makes a cocktail better than drinking it poolside. With the summer days getting hotter, the need for cool crisp adult beverages are getting stronger. Shake things up this year and try something new.
Listed below are five of the best cocktails that you do not want to miss this season. The best thing about these cocktails, other than being tasty, is that they are easy to make. With a few ingredients, you just simply mix them together. Give it a shot and see for yourself!
Cucumber Margarita
Try this cucumber spin on the classic margarita.
Ingredients:
Salt, for rimming the glass
Ice
2 1/2 ounces Cucumber-Infused Tequila
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce simple syrup
1 cucumber slice, for garnish
Step 1:
Wet the rim of your favorite margarita glass and dip it in the salt. Let dry. Fill the glass with ice.
Step 2:
Add the Cucumber-Infused Tequila, lime juice and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake until well chilled.
Step 3:
Strain the liquid into your margarita glass and garnish with the cucumber slice.
Rum and Tonic
Gin and tonic is a classic drink, but this may become your new favorite.
Ingredients:
Ice
2 ounces white rum
5 ounces chilled tonic water
2 dashes of lemon bitters
1 lemon wheel, for garnish
Step 1:
Chill a highball glass and then add ice.
Step 2:
Add the rum, tonic water and lemon bitters and stir. Garnish with the lemon wheel.
Aperol and Grapefruit soda
This drink is refreshing and bubbly. It is everything you want while you lounge by the pool.
Ingredients:
Ice
2 ounces aperol
Squirt soda
1 grapefruit slice, for garnish
Step 1:
Chill a highball glass and then add ice.
Step 2:
Add the Aperol to the glass. Top with grapefruit soda, and stir. Garnish with a grapefruit slice.
Hornitos LeMANade Cocktail
It just isn't summer until you've had lemonade. Here is a grown up twist that you won't find at your neighborhood lemonade stand.
Ingredients:
Ice
2 ounces Hornitos Plata Tequila
1 1/2 ounce ginger ale
1 1/2 ounce lemonade
1/2 ounce lime juice
1 lemon slice, for garnish
Step 1:
Put ice in a Tom Collins glass.
Step 2:
Add Hornitos Plata Tequila, ginger ale, lemonade, and lime juice. Stir well. Garnish with a lemon slice.
Summer Tea Cocktail
You may have heard of sweet tea and maybe you make your own sun tea in the summer, but this is for sure unlike any tea you've ever had before. Mix up a pitcher today and you will never look at tea the same way again.
Ingredients:
1 cup of ice
1 1/2 ounce Grey Goose L'Orange
3 ounces iced tea
1 1/4 ounce simple syrup
4 mint leaves
1 orange slice, for garnish
Step 1:
Muddle simple syrup and the mint leaves at the bottom of the shaker.
Step 2:
Add the Grey Goose, iced tea, simple syrup, and ice. Shake well.
Step 3:
Pour the entire contents of the shaker into a tall glass. Garnish with a mint spring and slice of orange.
There you have it, the top five cocktails for this summer season. Mix up a few of these drinks for your next pool party and it is sure to be a hit. Make sure you have plenty of ice on hand, these few simple ingredients, and enjoy your fun in the sun!
Dunn-Rite Pool Products & Pool Accessories
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Pool Fountains - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball
Pool Sun Protection
With the summer heat in full swing, many people are taking to the outdoors to take advantage of the weather. Stand-up paddle-boarding (SUP) is a popular summer aquatic activity; however, when people are enjoying the ocean or the pool, it is important to take steps to protect against the sun's harmful rays. Pool sun protection is a critical part of summer safety and will allow people to enjoy stand-up paddle-boarding and other aquatic activities to the fullest. With this goal in mind, what are some of the most critical aspects of pool sun protection?
Sunscreen is a Must for Pool Sun Protection
One of the first steps in taking proper sun protection while at the pool is to make sure that sunscreen is applied frequently and adequately. Sunscreen should be generously applied before entering the pool. Apply sunscreen to all sun-exposed areas. The sunscreen also needs to be absorbed into the skin before getting wet. Otherwise, the sunscreen might wash off. Furthermore, make sure to invest in a form of sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Both of these rays are capable of damaging the skin and the sunscreen needs to protect against both. In addition, make sure to read the sun protection factor (SPF) on the container. The higher the SPF, the better. Lastly, remember that sunscreen needs to be re-applied regularly while at the pool. Typically, sunscreen needs to be applied every two to three hours but read the bottle to make sure that it's applied as instructed.
Protecting the Skin While out of the Pool
Once people exit the pool, more needs to be done to protect the skin against the sun. While out of the pool, people should remember to take extra measures. Try to stay in the shade if possible. Staying out of the sun's rays is the best way to protect the skin against the sun. If shade is not available, people need to put their clothes on to cover their skin and protect against sunburns. Finally, sunscreen should still be reapplied as long as people are still outside. Pool sun protection involves much more than just applying sunscreen when getting in the water. As long as people are outside, more measures should be taken.
Don't Forget About the Eyes with Pool Sun Protection
The eyes are another important part of pool sun protection. Particularly for people who wear contacts, which magnify the sun's rays, the bright light can be devastating to the eyes. Therefore, when people are outside and at the pool, eye protection is a must. Sunglasses are key for protecting the eyes; however, people should make sure that they invest in sunglasses that will guard against both UVA and UVB rays. For those who go underwater, they might not want to wear sunglasses. They might prefer goggles instead. While wearing goggles, the same measures should be taken. Try to wear goggles that will reduce the sun exposure of the eyes. The eyes are often forgotten as people try to protect their skin first. The eyes should not be overlooked when it comes to pool sun protection.
Proper Hydration is a Must
Finally, do not forget about hydration. The weather is going to be hot and the sun is only going to further dehydrate the skin. While people are swimming in the pool, they might feel cool and could forget about their hydration status. Dehydration could put someone in the hospital. Therefore, make sure that everyone at the pool is drinking regularly, particularly children who could dehydrate faster. Water is the most appropriate way for children to rehydrate as they play in the hot summer sun.
Proper Pool Sun Protection While Enjoying the Summer Fun
Even though people can become engrossed with
stand-up paddle-boarding and other summer aquatic activities, it is important to remember that proper pool sun protection is critical. Without proper sunscreen, the sun's harmful UV rays could result in someone developing serious sunburns or even skin cancer down the road. All of this could be avoided by taking proper steps to protect against the sun. With proper sun protection, everyone will be ready to take advantage of the summer fun to the fullest.
Dunn-Rite Pool Products & Pool Accessories
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Pool Fountains - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball
Pool Game for Kids
If you are having a pool party, or just entertaining the kids in your neighborhood this summer, swimming pool games are a fun way to keep the kids engaged and laughing all summer long. Plus, they are a great way for adults to bond with their kids if they take part in them as well. Pool games might involve just a few kids or an entire team, depending on how elaborate the game is.
Pool Games for Kids
Volleyball
Purchase a
swimming pool volleyball unit and watch your kids have a blast this summer! The rules are the same are regular volleyball, the setting has just moved to the pool!
Basketball
You can choose either a
portable or deck mounted basketball hoop for your pool, and the kids can play a fun game of basketball. Playing in the pool adds to the challenge!
Octopus Tag
Octopus Tag is similar to regular tag, with just a few changes. The first child who is chosen as “it” will be at one end, with the rest of the kids at the other. When someone says “Go!” all the kids need to get to base, the other end of the pool. When the child who is “it” tags someone, the tagged child will also become “it”, and the two kids will join hands to tag more children. The one person who is left is the winner.
Hit the Bobbing Head
In this game, one player will stand in the middle of the pool holding a soft ball. The other players will stay underwater and each time they bob their heads up, the person who is in the middle of the pool will throw the soft ball at their head. If they are hit, they are now “it”.
Marco Polo
Most kids know this game. One person is blindfolded (or they can simply close their eyes). He or she calls out “Marco!” and the other children respond with “Polo!” The child who is blindfolded will try to tag the other kids by following their voices. If a child is tagged, he or she becomes “it”.
Treasure Hunt
The adults will place or hide items on the bottom of the pool—trinkets, small toys, etc. The kids have to grab these and bring them to the surface. The child who retrieves the most items wins.
Sharks
One child is chosen as the shark. He or she will stand at the end of the pool, facing away from the other children. The other kids will start at the other end of the pool and swim toward the shark; when the shark turns around, they must freeze. If they do not stop moving, they are out, but if a child touches the shark, he or she wins.
Freeze Tag
This is similar to regular Freeze Tag, with one twist. One person is “it” and each time they touch someone in the water, that child must freeze, until someone who is not “it” unfreezes them. However, if a child goes underwater, they cannot be tagged, or frozen.
Raft Battles
Kids will sit on inflatable rafts all over the pool. The objective is to bump into other rafts and upend them, tossing the other players into the pool.
Underwater Races
All children start at one end of the pool. When someone says “Go!” all the kids hold their breath and swim underwater. The one who goes the farthest wins.
Tug of War
Throw a rope in the water and allow the kids to divide into two teams. Each team pulls until they pull the other team across the center line.
These games will make summer fun! Try these pool games for kids this summer in your pool to keep the kids entertained.
Dunn-Rite Pool Products & Pool Accessories
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Pool Fountains - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball
Pool Day Checklist
Summer days often mean a trip to the pool—maybe the one in your backyard, the neighborhood pool, or a friend’s. No matter where you’re heading, it’s important to check your pool day list, and check it twice, because few things are as frustrating as heading off to the pool only to find that a few of your essentials didn’t make the trip with you. From packing water to getting
pool basketball, we have you covered for your next pool day!
Pool Day Checklist
Here are just a few things you will need to make your day at the pool a great one:
Beach Bags
Make sure you have a large, sturdy, waterproof bag to hold all your supplies. You don’t want to use plastic bags for your wet items, a large waterproof beach bag is the way to go. Plus, a large bag with plenty of pockets will give you room for everything your family wants to bring along.
Beach Towels
Remember to bring your beach towels! And bring extras to line your beach bag with. If you put them at the bottom of your bag, they’ll absorb any water that might leak on the way home, or on the way there.
Water
Make sure to have lots of drinking water on hand. Whether you’re heading to someone else’s pool or your backyard pool, having plenty of water on hand is important. Have a cooler full of water to keep the kids from running in and out of the house to retrieve water—and if you’re at the neighborhood pool, having your own water will keep you from spending money at the snack bar.
Food
Have healthy snacks on hand for hunger pains. Bring chips, crackers, carrots, as well as sandwiches if you’ll be gone all day. And don’t forget paper towels or napkins.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the most important thing on your list. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen that will block both UVA and UVB rays. Remember, you will need to reapply if you get wet or sweat. Even if you don’t get wet, you should still reapply every few hours.
Don’t squint all day! Sunglasses will save your eyesight and keep you from developing wrinkles. Find a pair of sunglasses that, like the sunscreen, block both UVA and UVB rays.
First Aid Kit
Pack a first aid kit in case of scrapes. Make sure to pack band-aids and antiseptic.
Extra Clothes
If you are heading to someone else’s pool, bring a change of clothes in case the ones your family are wearing get wet. This will make the ride home a lot more comfortable.
Umbrella and Chairs
Bring along a portable umbrella to give you some extra sun protection. Plus, a couple of comfy chairs will help if you aren’t sure there will be enough chairs to go around at the neighborhood pool.
Pool Accessories
You can't have a successful pool day without some excitement. Consider getting pool basketball or pool volleyball, so that you and your friends can heat things up with a little competition. It's fun for every age and it definitely will ensure your pool day is a blast! Other accessories could include: foam noodles, inflatables, etc.
Pool Shoe
Remember to pack pool shoes—shoes that can either get wet or some flip-flops that slip on and off easily. No one wants to have to slip on socks and lace-up shoes at the end of the day, especially when feet are wet.
Check this list and check it twice before you head off to the pool this summer to make sure you have everything you need for a stress-free day!
Dunn-Rite Pool Products & Pool Accessories
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Pool Fountains - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball
Pool Safety for Kids
In many states, drowning has been the leading cause of accidental death in the homes of children under 5-years-old. Many communities have sanctioned safety regulations with regards to residential swimming pools. However, it is up to the parents of the children to comply with the regulations. Aside from the laws, those who own pools must take precautions to reduce the possibility of their child access the pool without supervision.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), 75% of submersion victims were between 1 and 3 years old with 65% of them boys. Submersion incidents with children typically occur in a familiar environment and happen very quickly. Survival often comes down to quickly rescuing the child and restarting breathing while in the pool. To keep your child safe, there are several tips for you to understand:Tip #1 – Never Leave a Child Unsupervised
While this may be the most obvious, in the time it takes for parents to answer a phone, the child could drown. During social gathers near a pool, appoint a designated watcher to protect the children from accidents. Adults often take turns as the water because when parents become preoccupied, children are now at risk. A good rule-of-thumb is to rotate watchers in 15-minute shifts.Tip #2 – Install Barriers
While barriers are not completely childproof, they offer additional layers of protection for those who stray from supervision. A barrier can include any obstruction from allowing the child to enter the pool area, such as fences, walls or a power safety cover over the pool. You want to ensure the wall or fence is at least 4-feet tall so the child cannot climb it. Also, the fence slats should be no more than 4-inches apart to ensure the child does not squeeze through. Power safety covers must meet the ASTM pool cover standard for performance which requires the cover to withstand the weight of two adults and a child.Tip #3 - Utilize Door Alarms
If the side of the house is one part of the barrier, then all doors leading to the house into the pool area should be protected with alarms producing an audible sound when opened. This alarm will notify the adult that the child is attempting to exit the home. The alarm should have a keypad to be used by adults when passing through the door.Tip #4 – Teach the Child to Swim
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, swimming lessons should be provided to children at the age of 4 or older. However, it is best to enter children between the ages of 1 and 4 into local aquatic programs to prepare them for swimming lessons. By having them become comfortable at a young age, they will enjoy being in the water and know the safety rules around your pool. While this is not a substitute for adult supervision and safety, there are drowning prevention skills that can be learned.Tip #5 – Learn CPR
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is the process of resuscitating a drowning or choking victim back to life by clearing the lungs of water or the airways of an object. As a parent, learning CPR in case there is an accident could be the difference between life and death for your child. It is also recommended that babysitters, grandparents, older siblings or any other caretakers of your child learn CPR.Tip #6 – Put Away Pool Toys
Children are often easily tempted by colorful pool toys shaped like animals or popular cartoon characters so they attempt to retrieve the toy and fall it. It is recommended that parents clear the pool and deck of the toys after each pool session so that children are not tempted to enter the area without adult supervision.Tip #7 – Safety Equipment
There are some very interesting and beneficial pool safety gadgets that could save your child’s life. First, is a pool-mounted infrared detector which shoots out an invisible laser that, when broken, lets off a high-decibel alarm. Also, the underwater motion alarm uses a sonar grid to sound an alarm when movement is detected. Additionally, the personal immersion detector is worn as a wrist-band by the child which sounds an alarm when they contact the pool. Finally, as previously mentioned, a removable pool fence will create a temporary barricade if your child slips outside.Dunn-Rite Pool Products and Inflatable Paddle Boards
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Inflatable Paddle Boards - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball
Pool Volleyball Rules
In pool volleyball, the first team to win two games wins the set. This exciting game is an exciting way to stay fit and trim in the summertime and during warmer temperatures. However, without knowing the rules, you're unlikely to have much success.
Who Goes First?
Before you jump in the pool, toss a coin to see which side should serve first. Be sure to have a sturdy net, such as Dunn Rite stainless-steel deck volleyball nets, that can withstand the impact of your power players. Scores are flexible, with games up to 11, 15, or 25 points being the most common. Teams should decide the length of the game before starting a set. Keep in mind that the winning team needs a two-point lead or the game goes into overtime. That's when things get really exciting!Volleyball Serving
It's important for everyone on the team to know how the serve works. Once your team gets the serve, everyone rotates clock-wise so that the next team member in position can take over the serve. The player performing the serve should call out the serve before hitting the ball, which gives both teams an opportunity to focus on the play.Dunn-Rite volleyballs are regulation size and easy to see, giving your team an opportunity to play like the pros.Volleyball Scoring
Points are scored by both teams, regardless of who is serving. In fact, a new serve results each time a point is made. Here's how to make points and steal the victory from your opponents:
An opposing team member double-hits the ball
The ball hits the water within the boundary lines on the opposing team's side of the net
A player pushes, carries, or catches the ball (opposing team scores)
The ball is hit at the same time by two players on the same team
When a player touches the net while the ball is in playVolleyball Service
Overhead serves are the typical style used in water volleyball. However, the rules allow for side or underhand hits as long as the ball stays above the water and the server doesn't violate the no-carry rule.Volleyball Set Length
A match has points and sets. For competitive volleyball, if a team makes 25 points before the opponent that team wins the set. A match is three sets and the first team to win with sets wins the match. If a match requires a fifth set (both teams have won two sets) , the fifth set is played up to 15 points to determine which team wins the match.
In non-competitive volleyball played backyard swimming pools, matches can last and be determined by whatever the players can handle. Make sure that both teams agree on the length and scoring rules to avoid any conflict at the end of the match. If you regularly host tournaments, it's a good idea to get a volleyball set with weighted anchors for long-lasting durability for many summers to come
This is important because pools might or might not match in shape and/or water depth on each side of the net (you can always alternate so that the game is fairer to whoever winds up on the deeper end. Anchors keep the equipment in place.What the Most Common Penalties in Competitive Pool?
A few common errors that can help you avoid any penalties are:
A single player touches the ball twice consecutively.
A team touches the ball four (4) times consecutively.
Any player touches the net during play.
Any player catches or cradles the ballSettling Disputes with a Referee
A volleyball match is watched over by a referee, who observes actions from a stand. You can just choose someone or alternate the position., Make sure they have a clear view of action above the net and looking down into the court. The second referee helps the first referee view different angles to call tough plays on the court.Dunn-Rite Pool Products and Inflatable Paddle Boards
3rd Generation Family Owned Company with a long history of developing innovative products of the highest quality.
Inflatable Paddle Boards - Combo Units - Pool Volleyball - Pool Basketball