R&R Pools Backyard Escapes Magazine 2015 Edition

SPRING/SUMMER 2015 R & R Pools

THE PERFECT ESCAPE Creating a backyard oasis

FROM THE GROUND UP Plenty of reasons to add a fence to your property

2015 MUST HAVES ENDLESS HOURS OF FUN DREAM SHOWCASE VACATION HOME

HALIFAX, N.S. www.rrpools.ca

Kara’s 2015

MUST HAVES

Keep your pool up to date with these hot trends Spice up your nightlife and soothe your senses!

Water and fire features give you the opportunity to make your backyard one of a kind and truly unique. Enjoy the soothing sounds of nature or the flicker of a flame during an evening soirée by creating the space you really want with Bobé.

Kara’s Favourite

Zoom along hands free!

A Robotic cleaner like this Dolphin is reliable, quick and simple to use. A big step up from the suction side cleaners like Kreepy Krauly. This vacuum is a standalone product so it doesn’t hook up like your normal vacuum and makes for a quick and easy clean right before the big party.

Kids love sports Whether it is basketball, volleyball or polo there’s a sport that your family would love to play in the pool this summer. Check out our quality salt safe options!

Don’t forget about the kids!

There is nothing like a waterslide on an in-ground swimming pool. With different styles and colours to choose from, you are guaranteed to find a slide that everyone will love.

Kara’s Favourite

Modern and elegance pool side I love these Artisan handrails by SR Smith.

A slight flair reminds me why hardware is so important and can really make or break the feel of a room. Jazz up your outside room by bringing out your personality!

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MAKING WHAT A YEAR 2014 WAS! MEMORIES T T

here’s nothing more satisfying, as owner of R&R Pools, than to look back over the last 30+ years knowing I did the best I could do, building a backyard dream for so many families.

The growth of R&R Pools remains steady and strong. While keeping up with many changes in the pool industry, R&R Pools has made some changes of our own. Over the past couple of years, renovations to the store have given it a new and updated look; a new addition has made inventory handling much easier and more efficient; and resurfacing of the parking lot has improved access for both customers and delivery trucks. R&R Pools is here to stay!

With the new 2015 season getting underway, we at R&R Pools – service teams, installation teams, and store and office team – are energized, trained, and ready to go! We are prepared to tackle the challenges ahead, whether planning for an installation, correcting the water balance in your pool, or repairing a pool heater. You can count on us to look after your swimming pool needs.

With much hard work and dedication, Kara and Ryan are quickly becoming the backbone of R&R Pools. Kara constantly seeks out and implements new ideas to enhance the customer experience – a big part of R&R’s success can be attributed to her determination and perseverance. And I’ve been able to pass on to Ryan, through on-site mentoring and hands-on experience, a huge body of knowledge and the skillsets needed for quality pool installation and service.

Upon reflection, I can honestly say that I’m very proud of how far we’ve come as a team at R&R Pools, and look forward to helping our loyal customers make many more memories.

Derek Redden Owner, R&R Pools

hank you for allowing us to be a part of it. We are so appreciative that you entrusted us to help make the year memorable.

Looking back over the past seven years since my mom passed, I realize that being part of a small family business has meant a lot to me. Reminiscing about all the family events that have happened since then, like weddings, graduations and funerals, I think about how she was always the glue that kept our family together. Whether through family events, holiday gatherings, visits, or just phone calls, my mom made sure we were a part of each others’ lives.

As I get older, the word family takes on more meaning for me.

I have become the glue in our family, planning and hosting family events, giving birthday reminders, and ensuring that we all share both the smiles and tears that come along with family life, as well as working together every day. I have taken on that role because I appreciate how precious life is, and the importance of quality of life, and with whom we share it.

Because of my appreciation of life and the memories we make, I get so excited when I see families, couples and grandparents interested in creating their own memories in their backyard. When you create an environment for people to relax, have fun, and enjoy each others’ company, you really are bringing people together. You are providing the opportunity for your family to make memories that will last a lifetime which will, in turn, set up the next generation of families. Your investment in your family and friends is priceless and not hard to commit to.

Let 2015 be the year you work less, save more, and spend more time with your loved ones.

If you need help making that happen, feel free to pop in or give me a call!

To friends and family, and a fantastic year in 2015!

Kara Redden R&R Pools

VISIT http://tiny.cc/hiddensavings 1949 St. Margaret’s Bay Road Timberlea, NS B3T 1C3

Phone: 902-876-2773 Email: info@rrpools.ca

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015 / 3

VACATION AT HOME Superb service, satisfied customers at R&R Pools

Photos: © Heather Quinn/R&R Pools

T

here is no greater example of customer satisfaction than repeat business, so when Debbie and Leanne were interested in getting an in-ground pool, it was pretty much a no-brainer: they went with a company they knew was tried and true – R&R Pools in Timberlea, Nova Scotia.

R&R had installed an above-ground pool at their previous residence 10 years ago, so both Debbie and Leanne were familiar with the kind of quality and customer service that owner Derek Redden and his team delivers.

When they opted for an in-ground last fall at their new residence in Fall River, Nova Scotia, Debbie and Leanne did their due diligence to ensure top-notch quality and value for the investment. They asked around, talked to family and friends, and weren’t surprised when one name kept coming up – R&R Pools.

“We knew them, of course, from the aboveground install,” Debbie says, “and when we were thinking of the in-ground pool, R&R

4 / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

BY

Fred Sgambati was recommended to us by a friend and also their hot tub provider, which wasn’t R&R. Everybody we talked to referred us to R&R. They have 30 years in the business and the experience to do it right.”

“One of the big reasons we chose them is that they have all the contractors: guys who pour concrete, do electrical, add a retaining

wall. The quote has all the accessories such as steps, ladder, solar cover and roller, and auto pool cleaner so you know what you’re getting with the install cost. It is good to know, and then we were told of upgrade options such as extra handrails or step/ moulding colour (we chose grey).

“We also had a drainage ditch dug at the initial pool dig day. We had a wet area in the backyard that they addressed and hand dug, and put down a pipe to drain the water off our property. The area now is much drier.”

Derek met with Debbie and Leanne many times at their convenience in their home to go over all details of the pool install and pricing, and then daily once the project began.

Perfect for an in-ground The couple live on a three-acre wooded property with two Portuguese water dogs, and were interested in blending a flagstone patio and fire pit already in place with a pool/ patio concept. After consulting with Derek, WWW.RRPOOLS.CA

they determined that the property was perfect for an in-ground: level, already fenced in, with ample space to accommodate the design.

Debbie and Leanne staked out the area, exploring different shapes and fit for the backyard. Derek did the layout with them, explaining every step, and gave a detailed estimate encompassing shape, size and colour options. He also noted that the property sat on bedrock, and recommended test digs before actually starting the installation.

Debbie and Leanne made the decision to go ahead last September and the dig began the first week of October. Derek did three test holes to determine the depth of the bedrock. He went down seven feet without difficulty and suggested a depth of six feet for the pool. Debbie and Leanne gave him a green light to go ahead and his goal was to get the pool into the ground before the frost arrived.

“It was a fairly significant piece for their backyard,” Derek says, “and it made sense.

We weren’t waiting for roads to open in the spring and we could get the necessary heavy machinery onsite. It also helped to keep costs down and allowed the customers to get up and running early in the spring.”

“From the very beginning, Derek was organized and professional. The office staff was there on the other end, responding to our emails or calls. They always had an answer.”

– Debbie Solid support system Everything, including liner, steps, water, electrical and piping, was installed last fall.

R&R returned to hook up the pump and do the concrete patio, landscaping and other esthetics in April of this year. Debbie and Leanne were impressed with the support they received throughout the process, not only from Derek, but from his daughter Kara and the R&R Pools office staff.

In the spring, Ryan, R&R’s project manager and pool chemical guy, went over all the water maintenance needed to test and shock the pool as well as the pump, heat pump and salt chlorinator. He also put together the pool cleaner vacuum and showed them how to use it. “The service aspect is so needed,” Debbie says.

“Any time I had a question, I would email Kara and she would get back to me the same day,” she adds. A couple of design changes came up along the way too and everyone at R&R was accommodating and professional.

For instance, Leanne said there was a concern about the pool being open over the winter and the dogs possibly falling in, but R&R solved that by providing temporary fencing to prevent any mishaps. This fall, in consultation with Debbie and Leanne, R&R installed a rigid but breathable mesh cover sturdy enough for the dogs to walk on for their protection.

Debbie and Leanne chose the Fiji configuration, which features a kidney-shaped design. Derek and his team rounded the patio and installed a retaining wall that mirrored the pool’s unique shape, enhancing the overall esthetic of the backyard. “We were very pleased,” Debbie says. “They knew what they were doing in meeting our needs.”

R&R installed a heat pump with salt water chlorinator, requiring less chemical to run, and married the existing patio and fire pit area to the pool’s concrete patio to create a fabulous living space. Outdoor couches and a coffee table, two strategically placed planters with trees for shade, and a two-tiered pool/patio configuration have created what Debbie and Leanne refer to as their ‘Resort in Fall River.’

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Vacation at home The in-ground pool has definitely created a vacation at home, Leanne says. “The whole summer, family and friends came over on weekends. Before we decided to put the pool in, we had rented a cottage for one week and were away for two more for a total of three weeks during the summer and said afterward we would never do that again. Everybody wants to come over here now and we love to entertain. Definitely next summer we’ll be staying here, having parties and outdoor house concerts.”

“We don’t want to go anywhere,” Debbie says. “We love having people over – it’s fun!

We were in the pool the first of June and it has definitely become an outdoor resort.

“From the very beginning, Derek was organized and professional. The office staff was there on the other end, responding to our emails or calls. They always had an answer.”

“We are both self-employed,” Leanne says, “and it meant a lot to us to deal directly with the owner. It was an important factor for us in choosing R&R Pools.” When asked if they would recommend R&R Pools to others, there was no hesitation in their reply.

“Totally!”

For more information on R&R Pools, please call 902-876-2773 or visit: www.rrpools.ca SPRING/SUMMER 2015 / 5

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NATIONAL SECTION

Published for: LeisureScapes www.leisurescapes.com Operations Manager: Sarah Acorn

II

THE PERFECT BACKYARD ESCAPE

XIV

Creating a backyard oasis.

Published by: The Chronicle Herald Chairman and Publisher: Sarah Dennis President and CEO: Mark Lever Vice President, Business Development: Jeff Nearing Editor and Project Manager: Claudia White Graphic Designer: Julia Webb Advertising Coordinator: Stephanie Munroe Cover Photos: Focus360, Heather Quinn © JustaHobby Photo (R&R Pools), Michael Anderson (Cobra Pools) © The Chronicle Herald 2015 All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in retrieval systems or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission from the publisher.

VIII

TheChronicleHerald.ca Printed by: Lowe-Martin Group

XVI

There are plenty of reasons why you should consider adding a fence to your property.

XII

AN OASIS FOR ENTERTAINING Canadians clamouring for backyard kitchens.

XX FROM THE GROUND UP

The Chronicle Herald 2717 Joseph Howe Drive PO Box 610, Halifax, N.S., B3J 2T2 902 426 2811

For some pool aficionados, only a heated pool will do, even in the dog days of summer.

THE FINISHING TOUCHES A well-planned selection of plants can be versatile and practical to suit your lifestyle and maximize your enjoyment of your backyard oasis.

X

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIPS

MASON JAR ENTERTAINING The Mason Jar has long held more than jams and preserves.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS Great ideas to help enjoy the summer.

Like us on Facebook

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Photo: © 2011 Peter Fritz

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THE PERFECT BACKYARD ESCAPE Creating a backyard oasis BY

Carson Arthur

W

ith utility costs reaching record highs, with no relief in sight, more Canadians are opting out of buying a second home in favour of a new vacation destination — their own backyard.

Coined ‘staycations,’ this trend of creating a backyard oasis continues to resonate with homeowners. And why wouldn’t it?

Avoiding the traffic after a long week at work is reason enough. Pair that with increasing property taxes and decreasing availability, and you see many Canadians are choosing to stay home instead.

There are a few other factors adding to this trend that might surprise you. The biggest reason homeowners, specifically Generation Xers (the 30 to 40 somethings), are investing in these backyard escapes is money. According to the experts, investing in the outdoors has one of the biggest returns of any home renovation. Remodeling Magazine even listed the backyard deck in their top three in 2014 for return-on-investment improvements. Savvy homeowners have realized they can have beautiful outdoor escapes in their backyard with a resort feel, and when they are ready to sell their homes, recoup their investment.

So what are the ‘must-haves’ for these personal paradises? Here’s my top three list, starting with number three.

Photo: Jeff McNeill © McNeill Photography 2014

Photos: Courtesy BonaVista Pools

Photo: Jeff McNeill © McNeill Photography 2014

SPRING/SUMMER 2015 / III

Photos: Courtesy BonaVista Pools

Pools are back

Photo: © 2011 Peter Fritz

Useable space

Photo: Jeff McNeill © McNeill Photography 2014

Decks and patios are definitely important for creating the perfect backyard. Larger patio furniture, fireplaces, even outdoor televisions, all need space to be properly used. More paver and decking companies are entering into the market with new looks and materials. This is allowing homeowners to customize their outdoors in the same manner they would the inside.

The numbers are also backing this trend, with increased home valuations of 10 to 12 per cent for useable outdoor space. (Century21 Canada, 2014).

When purchasing a home, buyers will often settle for a smaller indoor footprint knowing they have square footage outdoors.

The traditional backyard with the big lawn is definitely changing into a landscaped space with multi-purpose outdoor rooms, complete with functional flooring.

After several years of bad publicity from the real estate companies, pools are once again in demand. Throughout the late ’90s, homeowners were told that if they wanted a pool in their backyard, they were immediately devaluing their property. Happily, this has definitely changed. New housing numbers show that pools are on the rise when it comes to home valuation. Real estate companies have identified that while a pool in the backyard may rule out certain buyers, they definitely attract others.

Adding to this new confidence, homeowners have more options to customize their space. Saltwater continues to be popular, as do waterfalls, infinity edges and lap pools.

Surprisingly, urban homeowners are choosing pools for smaller lots instead of lawns, opting to spend their time maintaining a swimming pool instead of grass. Modern design enthusiasts are now using the clean lines and angles of pools to create Zen-like spaces perfect for backyard escapes.

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The Outdoor Kitchen For years, Canadians have been patiently waiting for the technology that allows us to have amazing outdoor kitchens in our climate similar to the ones we’ve seen in warmer locales. I can officially say that it’s finally here. We now have fridges, sinks, warming drawers, and even overhead heaters to accompany our barbecues. Even the barbecue has transformed in radical new ways with more models coming out every day.

With all of these new improvements, homeowners do not appear to be concerned about the price. Companies like Appliance Canada are now selling lines like Lynx Grills, which have models upwards of $10,000. These are the barbecues that chefs dream about. They can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees in minutes, ideal for searing the perfect steak and look good doing it.

The esthetics of the outdoor grill are also now as important as the performance. Not only does it have to work well, the barbecue has to look great doing it as it has become the centerpiece for these outdoor kitchens in the same way a fridge or stove impacts the indoors.

While the barbecue may have once been a male-dominated purchase, more women

Photo: Contributed / B. Payne

are influencing the buying decision. The outdoor kitchen truly has become an extension of the home.

As a landscaper, this is an exciting time for me. Homeowners are investing in their outdoor spaces and are truly making the most of their backyards in creating these customized escapes. They are making wise choices that benefit their families, but also continue to increase their home’s value.

When you look out your back door, what do you see? Is it time to rethink how you want to spend your summers? Having your own backyard oasis has never made so much sense, but if you need a good excuse, how about never having to pack the family, pets and food into the car on a Friday and then doing it all over again on Sunday for the return trip?

Tempting, isn’t it?

Photo: Contributed

VI / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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THE FINISHING TOUCHES A well-planned selection of plants can be versatile and practical to suit your lifestyle and maximize your enjoyment of your backyard oasis BY

Diane Merlevede

P

lants can add beautiful finishing touches around your pool, but it’s not just about good looks. A well-planned selection of plants can be versatile and practical to suit your lifestyle and maximize your enjoyment of your backyard oasis.

Deciding what will work best for you and your landscape takes some thought, ideally starting at the beginning of your pool project. How much space will you have for plants, and where? What plants fare well in your climate and environment? Which ones will be low maintenance for both your garden and pool?

Will you need some plants for privacy or sound barriers, for disguising fences or a storage shed?

Are you dreaming of a tropical setting in the summer or a winter wonderland in the off-season?

What about lighting around the plants? The list goes on — and well beyond your pool area.

“The landscape around your house should be cohesive, from the front yard to the backyard to the interior, and everything should be matching up and meeting up with your lifestyle,” says certified landscape designer Joe Bidermann, the award-winning owner of Joe Bidermann Landscaping Design in Fall River, N.S. Working with a professional, such as a landscape designer or architect, right from the initial planning stages of your pool project can help you with the whole process of poolside planting and other aspects of your landscape. For example: Determining the best location for your pool, where your patio space should be and whether you will need an area for shade or entertainment. Finding out how bylaws may affect fences and other parts of your planning VIII / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Jeff McNeill © McNeill Photography 2014 Jeff McNeill © McNeill Photography 2014

Photos: Courtesy BonaVista Pools

or planting. Checking that there will be proper access to the backyard and whether it will mean removing some front yard landscaping.

Your landscape consultant can help evaluate the plants you already have in your backyard and what you can keep, reuse or relocate. If there are some large mature trees, you have to be careful about protecting the root system when you put in a pool,

and that even could include your neighbours’ trees, says certified landscape designer Denis Flanagan, the manager of membership and public relations for Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association.

When it comes to choosing poolside plants, many people want to avoid a big mess from leaves and petals. Bidermann’s no-fuss suggestions include ornamental grasses, broadleaf

evergreens and broadleaf ground covers. If you are looking for shade by the pool, the planting options usually are deciduous and lose leaves, so he likes to consider other options, such as a cabana or an open-sided covered structure, which also allow for the possibility of an entertainment area or small poolside bar.

Dreaming of a tropical setting?

For planting beds Flanagan considers lush-looking selections, such as large-leaved rhododendrons or magnolias and yucca plants. More exotic choices, such as a palm tree or coconut tree, can go into in pots or containers, which also are great for flowering annuals even if you don’t have a tropical theme.

“I think the best pool designs have permanent trees, shrubs and perennials in the beds, and the colour is introduced in containers, which can become focal points around the pool, adding a lot of impact,” he says.

“If you choose weather-resistant pots, you could replenish the planting in the late fall with pine and dogwood branches to have a lovely winter scene by your pool.”

Containers can be good poolside solutions too if you have a small space and not enough room to put in full beds. Also think about vertical gardening to add height to your landscape, using vines or hanging baskets mounted on fences and the house. Even in larger spaces vines can work well too when you want to mask fences or sheds.

All in all, it’s about making the most of whatever space you have with poolside plants that enhance the look and enjoyment of your backyard oasis. It’s part of making family and friends feel so welcome and comfortable.

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FROM THE GROUND UP There are plenty of reasons why you should consider adding a fence to your property

Photo: Jeff McNeill © McNeill Photography 2014

Photo Courtesy: Holland Home Leisure

Y

our dream backyard is almost complete — your ideal pool, a well-tended garden, maybe even that cute looking gazebo with a new brick walk-way — but there is still one key question that needs to be asked: to fence or not to fence?

A seemingly simple and practical undertaking, creating a fence around your space is an important addition, and one that can have quite a long-lasting effect.

Gary Devanney, a life-long carpenter and owner of FenceMaster in Halifax, N.S., says there are a few practical reasons why you should look at installing a fence on your property — privacy, boundary and safety.

“The first reason is privacy, for themselves or for others,” says Devanney. “People may want to know their neighbours are next door, but they may not want to be able to see them all the time or they want to keep their own matters private.

X / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Photo Courtesy: BonaVista Pools

BY

J.L. Hochman “The second reason is boundaries. People are very diligent in protecting/establishing what exactly is their property.”

The safety issue is one that is a bit more extensive. Devanney says the safety issue is predominantly to keep either young children or dogs from leaving your yard — ’60 to 70 per cent of all residential fences,’ he estimates — but there are also safety factors to consider when you own a pool.

“Any residential pool that is at least two feet deep should require a fence that is at least five feet high,” says Devanney, noting that this guideline is actually a by-law in Halifax. “That way it can prevent wandering

children, intoxicated adults or pets from falling in and accidentally drowning.

“Or in the winter, when a pool is covered and buried under snow, someone doesn’t fall in and sustain a serious injury.”

When looking at what type of fence to use, Devanney says it’s best to look at your reason: chain-link fences cost roughly one-third of what a wood fence would cost, but it provides far less privacy, making them ideal for when safety is your main concern.

If you’re looking for privacy, then a wooden fence is more likely your route.

You may want to discuss fence options with your pool contractor. They can offer you information on the best options that fit your particular needs and wants. As well, ensure your LeisureScapes contractors check with local municipality guidelines and advise you according. Guidelines and regulations will vary across the country.

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PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS Great ideas to make your pool or hot tub more enjoyable this season POLARIS P955 ROBOTIC POOL CLEANER Introducing the Polaris P955 Robotic Pool Cleaner with 4-Wheel Drive and Motion-Sensing Remote Loaded with new innovative features: Easy Lift System drives the cleaner to the surface and evacuates water for easy removal Dirty Filter Indicator eliminates guesswork on when to empty the filter canister 7-day programmable timer

CLEAR & PERFECTTM Clear & Perfect™ is the industry leading 6-in-1 clarifier by Natural Chemistry. This technologically advanced product quickly and efficiently clears cloudy or dull water. Clear & Perfect can be used with all filter medias, is not pH sensitive, and will not adversely affect the pH of pool water. It is highly concentrated to provide fast acting results!

MINERALUXE. HOT TUB CARE HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER. Mineraluxe is a healthier, simple approach to hot tub care. You just drop a Mineraluxe Cube into the skimmer, add a pouch of Mineraluxe Oxygen to the water, maintain a chlorine or bromine residual and keep the filter clean.

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PicSURE MEASURING SYSTEM The proper fit of a vinyl liner is imperative for its longevity and appearance. Highbury Pool’s innovative PicSURE Measuring System is the most accurate way to measure for a pool liner installation. Only Highbury Pools can accurately 3D render your pool to design a liner. The best fit, appearance and longevity, insist on a Highbury Pools Liner measured with PicSURE measuring system. www.highburypools.com

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OMNILOGIC ELITE BACKYARD CONTROLLER Control made simple. Now you can control nearly every aspect of your backyard from one device.

The OmniLogic user interfaces are intuitive and easy to use thanks to an icon-based graphics touchscreen and phone, tablet and web apps that are designed to do more with fewer button pushes. www.haywardpool.com

SUPERFLO® VS PUMPS New SuperFlo® VS Pumps now feature 115/230 voltage capability, a true 24-hour time clock, and a digital keypad that displays speed in rpms, watt usage, and time duration in its current program. Designed for pools requiring up to 1.5 hp, these pumps bring the remarkable savings of variable speed technology to the everyday pool, while saving up to 80% in energy costs. www.pentairpool.com

LATHAM POOL PRODUCTS Latham Pool Products is fully committed to the fastest growing segment of the pool industry: fibreglass swimming pools and spas. Now with eight manufacturing locations and six distribution centres, Latham has the broadest footprint of manufacturing, enabling the most cost effective and quickest delivery in the industry. In addition to geographic proximity, Latham has the widest array of models and colours. Latham’s award-winning facilities and award-winning manufacturing processes provide the foundation from which the highest quality swimming pools can be delivered for every order. www.lathampool.com

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015 / XIII

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIPS For some pool aficionados, only a heated pool will do, even in the dog days of summer

BY

Tom Mason

I

t’s hard to think of a better form of climate control on a sweltering summer afternoon than slipping into a backyard pool. Refreshing definitely, though swimming pools can be a significant source of energy consumption in the home. Now, thanks to a new generation of pool controls and products including variable speed pumps, sophisticated timer systems, solar-powered heaters and low-energy LED lighting systems, owning and maintaining a backyard pool can be an energy efficient proposition.

Achieving maximum energy efficiency starts at the planning stages, says Ken Reid of Sunshine Pools in Kelowna, British Columbia. Reid says thinking about energy efficiency before you begin your pool installation can have a huge effect on how much energy they end up drawing.

The pump – the mechanism that circulates the pool’s water through the filtering system – is the operational heart of any pool.

Not surprisingly, the energy needed to circulate thousands of gallons of water every day is considerable. The solution lies in a two-speed or variable-speed pumping system. The system works exactly as the name suggests, running at a slower, more energy efficient speed during normal operation with the ability to increase the speed during peak pool usage. “If you are operating a lot of water features like waterfalls and jets, you want to run the pump at full power,” says Reid.

“But if you’re not operating everything at full pressure, you can cut back and save energy.”

For some pool aficionados, only a heated pool will do, even in the dog days of summer. Dialing up the thermostat to bathtub levels will increase your utility consumption; around 25ºC is an ideal swimming temperature. Another energy saving solution is to install solar panels to create heat energy and keep the pool warm.

Installing a timer to turn on the pump or the heater at optimal times can also help. Many jurisdictions now offer time-of-use electricity rates – a billing system that reduces power rates during non-peak usage hours after 11 p.m. at night or on weekends. A homeowner who can take advantage of time-of-use billing can make the best use of a timer by setting it up to run the pump during the hours of cheapest power. “Most variable speed pumps come with a timer already installed,” says Reid.

In-pool lighting and carefully designed nightscaping can be a dramatic edition to the backyard landscape. It can also be an important safety factor. Keeping at least one light on in or around a pool lets people and pets know where to walk. But lights – particularly old-style flood lights – can be energy hogs. Fortunately, the latest LED lighting systems offer intense underwater lights that deliver considerable energy savings over conventional lighting along with a variety of mood-setting colours. Some LED systems can even be programmed to change colours for dramatic lighting effects.

Electricity isn’t the only consideration when it comes to saving money and resources. Water conservation can also be critical, especially in drought-prone areas or for homeowners who rely on wells for water. Andrew Sacco of Kandu Pools and Spas in Niagara Falls, Ontario, recommends installing a cartridge filtering system rather than a traditional sand filter. “With a cartridge filter you don’t need to backwash,” says Sacco. “You just take the filter out and clean it periodically. It actually cleans better than a traditional backwashing system.”

There are plenty of other creative ways to save as well. Covering the pool with a cover when not in use is a good way to stop heat loss.

Using a product such as Cover Free to the water can help reduce evaporation. Installing fences and landscaping elements such as trees and hedges that block prevailing winds also helps. Also make sure to keep intake drains free of debris to reduce strain on the pool filtration system – another source of energy loss.

Photo: Igor Zakharevich/123RF.com

XIV / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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AN OASIS FOR ENTERTAINING Canadians clamouring for backyard kitchens

Photo: Courtesy Jackson Grills Inc.

K

itchen parties aren’t exclusively something that just happens indoors.

Outdoor kitchens are the new, hot place to entertain.

“Whenever you invite guests to your house, the kitchen is always the room where everyone wants to hang out,” says Don Hiebert, sales manager with Jackson Grills in Abbotsford, British Columbia. “It’s amazing that the same concept happens in the backyard — everyone is hovering around the outdoor kitchen.

“Kitchens are now the most comfortable room in your home, and in your backyard.”

Hiebert says barbecues used to be purchased as “disposable” items — especially in the mid-’90s before stainless steel became readily available. But in recent years, more and more homeowners have chosen to invest in a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen instead of throwing money away on disposable barbecues.

The options are endless: double sinks, built-in trash bins, fridges, side burners,

XVI / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

BY

Heather Laura Clarke

Photo: Courtesy EDIT Kitchens Inc.

warming drawers, griddles, cold storage, paper towel drawers, drop-in coolers, raised bars, cocktail centres, and even beer taps ready to be fitted with a keg.

Hiebert compares putting in an outdoor kitchen to buying a new vehicle — a few will go for the top-of-the-line $60,000 model, some will choose a mid-range option costing about $20,000, and others will pick something more affordable in the $7,000 to $10,000 range.

“More people are choosing to spend money on improving their homes, so outdoor kitchen manufacturers have really opened up the market to all different budgets,” says Hiebert.

“You don’t need granite countertops or a grill that lights up, which are just like the bells and whistles on a high-end car. You can go with something you can afford.”

He says pizza ovens have dropped significantly in price, making them affordable for most outdoor kitchens.

“We sell a pizza oven called the Salamangrill, which cooks chicken, fish, and steak, WWW.LEISURESCAPES COM

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too. It can also be incorporated right into the cabinetry, whereas most pizza ovens are stand-alone.”

Across the country in Cambridge, Ont., Edit Kasza got her start designing traditional indoor kitchens. She decided to branch out into outdoor kitchen after repeated requests from her clients. That was four years ago, and she’s been happily creating outdoor culinary oases ever since, as EDIT Design Inc. Kasza credits the “staycation” for getting Canadians into the swing of outdoor kitchens.

“The economy was in rough shape, and more people were staying at home — but they wanted to have a nice place to spend time with family and friends outside,” explains Kasza.

She says the convenience of an outdoor kitchen allows a host to put together their meal without being stuck inside on a beautiful day.

“You’re still a part of things, and you’re still mingling with your guests while you cook,” says Kasza.

Just like any home renovation, the first step is research. Kasza recommends checking out the kinds of outdoor kitchens other XVIII / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Photo: Courtesy EDIT Kitchens Inc.

people have added to their yards, and figuring out how much you’d like to spend.

Her largest project to date was a $56,000 oversized outdoor kitchen that featured an impressive $8,000 grill.

Some clients want to use their existing grill or charcoal cooker, so they may only need a cocktail station with counters, storage, and a small fridge. If you’re planning to build an outdoor kitchen adjacent to your indoor kitchen, Kasza says you can save money but not including an outdoor fridge — since it would be just steps away from your regular fridge. If you don’t want to connect plumbing to your outdoor kitchen, just opt for an ice chest that can be filled with bags of ice.

Counter space is important for meal prep, plating, and serving. Kasza says the rule of thumb is that you can use any material that’s come from the earth — like granite, soapstone, or concrete — and to avoid grout. Some homeowners like a high-gloss stone countertop, just like in their home, but others choose a durable, textured finish that almost looks like leather.

“An outdoor kitchen should blend in with the home and its surroundings, so I steer the

homeowner toward finishes that will look like they’ve been there forever.”

Kasza says it’s critical to design an outdoor kitchen that will suit your lifestyle, not just copy one from a magazine — or in your neighbour’s yard. Sometimes she suggests something different from what a client originally asked about, because it would work better for their entertaining style.

“Some higher-end builders are offering outdoor kitchen allowances so their customers can build a barbecue island or a cocktail station, and homeowners sometimes choose to put in outdoor kitchens if they’re thinking of selling in a few years because it increases their resale value. But most people want an outdoor kitchen so they can really enjoy it.”

“They’re able to expand their living space without moving to a new home, so it’s like getting a brand-new, extra room for entertaining.”

For more information on EDIT Design Inc. in Cambridge, Ontario, please visit www. outdoorkitchenontario.ca. For more information on Jackson Grills Inc. in Abbotsford, British Columbia, please visit www.jacksongrills.com.

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MASON JAR ENTERTAINING The Mason jar has long held more than jams and preserves Photos: 123RF

BY

Mark DeWolf

XX / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

Jam Jar Entertaining

Bohemian Glamour

If your cupboards are like mine there is a Mason jar traffic jam in the dark recesses of the vortex that is the Tupperware shelf. You don’t have to wait until preserving season to show your mason jars the light of day.

The simple Mason jar can be your most cost effective, and most talked about, entertaining resource this year.

There is a certain bohemian charm to dressing a table with mason jars filled with wild flowers. In fact, you’d be remiss to head to a florist, as you’ll get more compliments for your resourcefulness by simply picking what’s available in the nearest meadow or better yet make an inspired by the roadside floral display. East coasters can fill the table with the colour purple thanks to the millions of lupins that line Atlantic Canada’s highways while western Canadians and Ontario residents might opt for black-eyed Susans, sunflowers or any number of wild flower varieties.

Compliments for the Condiments There’s nothing that strips the elegance of a glamorous patio tablescape nearly as much as when the bright yellow and red of the mustard and ketchup bottles buttress against your favourite centrepiece. Why not get some compliments for your condiments? Transfer the Heinz to a mason jar. Not only is it more visually appealing but they take up less space in the fridge. If your idea of great summer condiments goes beyond the standard ketchup, mustard and relish trio, then plan to adorn each with a tag. Wrap mason jars with twine adorned with handwritten tags identifying the condiment.

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Dress Up the Summer Salad Routine Consider adding a little joie de vie to summer salad by replacing the big bowl of greens with individual mason jars salads brimming with colour and flavour. Layer brightly coloured chunks of vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion and chunks of cucumber in individual jars. In a separate container make a vinaigrette by combining a spoonful of good mustard, a clove of minced garlic, some chopped fresh herbs, a healthy glug of good vinegar and a flew glugs of extra virgin olive oil. A vigorously shake and suddenly you have a delicious vinaigrette. While I cook most often by my taste as opposed to a formula, the standard ratio is one part vinegar to three parts olive oil. This salad idea makes a great summer dinner party opener and the presentation is a conversation starter. Bonus: you can prepare the salad ahead of time. Keep the salads in the fridge until you are ready to serve. What could be easier than bringing out a tray of mason jars full of salad for your guests?

Whether you already own a pool or just starting to think about owning a pool, you can find resources, ideas and tips to help you get the most from your backyard oasis.

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Rosé Coloured Glasses Life looks better through rosé coloured glasses, especially when its mason jars filled with rosé wine. Pink hued rosé is now one of the wine world’s most fashionable drinks. Be sure to look for authentic rosé. Rosé is made from purple skinned grapes whose juice has been kept in contact with the skins for a very short period of time. Blush on the other hand is made by blending white wine with red wine; the end result is rarely as good. The French, who have always recognized rosé as a legitimate wine style, continue to make the best of the genre. Many are refreshingly off-dry while others can be quite dry in style. The pinks of Provence are deliciously berry-like in flavour while the Cabernet-based versions of Anjou in the Loire can deliver a little herbal underpinning that can also be quite attractive.

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Mason Jar Strawberry Splash Cocktail Serves: 6 Ingredients: 1 cup sugar 1 lb strawberries, hulled, chopped 2 cups water Âź cup loosely packed mint Sparkling wine or soda

Minty Lamb Kebabs

Instructions:

Serves: 6

Begin by making a strawberry mint simple syrup. Combine the sugar, strawberries and water.

Bring to a boil and when the sugar is completely dissolved, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Take off the heat. When the simple syrup is cool; add the mint. Place in a container and let the mint infuse overnight. Strain before using. Fill Mason jars with ice. Add equal parts of your strawberry mint syrup to each glass. Top each with sparkling wine or soda.

Ingredients (Lamb): 1 kg lamb, cut into 2-cm cubes 1 tablespoon crushed dried chili flakes 3 tablespoons chopped rosemary 1 lemon, zested 2 tablespoons olive oil 6 pieces flat bread 3 plum tomatoes, seeds removed, chopped

XXII / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

1 red onion, sliced 1 cucumber, chopped Salt & pepper Skewers (soaked in water) or extra-long rosemary spears

Ingredients (Sauce): 2 cups yogurt 1 lemon, juiced 1 cup chopped mint Âź cup minced dill Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions: Place the lamb, chili flakes, rosemary, lemon zest and olive oil in a container. Toss to mix. Marinate overnight. Make the sauce by combing the yogurt, lemon juice, mint and dill. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Thread lamb pieces onto skewers. Grill over medium-high heat for 5 minutes.

You want the lamb to be charred on the outside. Let the lamb skewers rest. Toss the red onion, cucumber and plum tomatoes and set out in individual bowls. Set out flat bread, lamb skewers and a Mason jar of sauce.

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SUPERFLO® VS PUMP The smart variable speed upgrade for the everyday pool. With the new SuperFlo VS pump, you can get the innovative efficiency of Pentair’s revolutionary innovation – variable speed pool pump technology. Now all that energy efficiency is available for the everyday pool.

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No expensive rewiring. Runs on standard 115/230v

*Savings based on variable speed pump compared to a single-speed pump running 12 hours per day at an average of $0.16 per kWh in a 20,000 gallon pool. Actual savings may vary based on local utility rates, pool size, pump run time, pump horsepower, pump rpm, plumbing size and length, pump model, service factor and other hydraulic factors.

DREAM SHOWCASE Transform your backyard into your own retreat

P Photos: © Heather Quinn/R&R Pools

icture this — family and friends, sizzling barbecue, lively music, splashing water, summer retreat.

You can see it, hear it and feel it. Now it’s time to go home and enjoy it. With ever-increasing demands on families today, it’s so important to find a balance between work and home. Owning a pool can help you do just that.

We invite you to contact us so we can help you sit back and enjoy a little more R&R with your family.

From our family to yours,

Kara Redden

16’ x 38’ Rectangle with Autocover Glen Arbour, NS

1.

** Please note the pricing shown in the Dream Showcase is for illustration purposes only and may not reflect all items shown in the photograph.

For an accurate quotation please contact the office for your own personalized onsite estimate.**

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015 / 33

2.

22’ x 36’ Tahiti Chester, NS

$49,000 Installed + Taxes

t French Step t Heatpump t Lights t 6’ Stamped

Concrete Deck

4.

16’ x 32’ Rectangle with Autocover Hammonds Plains, NS ** Please note the pricing shown in the Dream Showcase is for illustration purposes only and may not reflect all items shown in the photograph.

For an accurate quotation please contact the office for your own personalized onsite estimate.**

34 / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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16’ x 36’ Rectangle with Autocover Fall River, NS

Photo: Rohit Seth/123RF

3.

AWARD WINNING POOL

16’ x 28’ Fiji Timberlea, NS

5.

6.

16’ x 40’ Rectangle with Autocover Halifax, NS

AWARD WINNING POOL

** Please note the pricing shown in the Dream Showcase is for illustration purposes only and may not reflect all items shown in the photograph.

For an accurate quotation please contact the office for your own personalized onsite estimate.**

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015 / 35

7.

18’ x 31’ Fiji Kingswood, NS

AWARD WINNING POOL

8.

20’ x 40’ Venetian Halifax, NS

$45,500 Installed + Taxes

t Roman Step t Heatpump t Lights t 4’ Concrete Deck ** Please note the pricing shown in the Dream Showcase is for illustration purposes only and may not reflect all items shown in the photograph.

For an accurate quotation please contact the office for your own personalized onsite estimate.** 36 / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

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9.

16’ x 34’ Bahama Halifax, NS Photo: Contributed

10.

11.

18’ x 36’ Mexico Tantallon, NS

18’ x 36’ Rectangle with Autocover Bedford, NS

AWARD WINNING POOL

x 28’Fiji 12. 16’ Bedford, NS

$43,300 Installed + Taxes

t French Step t Heatpump t Lights t 4’ Stamped

Concrete Deck

** Please note the pricing shown in the Dream Showcase is for illustration purposes only and may not reflect all items shown in the photograph.

For an accurate quotation please contact the office for your own personalized onsite estimate.**

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SPRING/SUMMER 2015 / 37

ENDLESS HOURS OF FUN Summer fun at an affordable price!

BY Photos: © Heather Quinn/R&R Pools

Fred Sgambati

I

f you’re looking for summer fun that makes memories that last a lifetime, check out the selection of above-ground pools at R&R Pools in Timberlea, Nova Scotia.

Above-ground pools are quick and easy to install. It takes only two days, and R&R owner Derek Redden, his daughters Brandy and Kara, and Kara’s husband Ryan make sure that customers are educated, informed, confident and comfortable with their pool, from initial consultation to fun in the sun come opening day! Others may take a different approach and cut corners, but the knowledgeable staff at R&R Pools do things right the first time.

Just ask Jerry and Deb Murphy. They live outside Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Jerry says, “we knew we wanted a pool and soon came to realize that these guys know their business. They’re as honest as the grass is green, and their knowledge, experience and personality made the decision-making easy.

We felt so comfortable so quick. It was a very rare customer experience, and I can’t say

38 / SPRING/SUMMER 2015

enough about these people. They’re great!”

R&R Pools has been an industry leader for more than 30 years. They are the best because they care.

“As with most people,” Jerry adds, “we were full of questions. They were answered in a professional manner and with utmost respect. We were asked at different points WWW.RRPOOLS.CA

during our first conversation with the staff at R&R if we were sure that we were ready for the lifestyle change that comes with owning a pool. The commitment to safety was also emphasized during this conversation. The establishment itself may not display the glamour of some of their competitors, but it was spotless clean and well set up. We soon came to realize that we were not supporting a large overhead and this was reflected in a fair quotation.”

R&R Pools delivers top quality goods and service without compromise, including a lot of extras in the purchase price like chemicals, special service calls, Do-It-Yourself seminars and how-to’s that other companies don’t.

Lynn Carter has had an above-ground pool from R&R Pools for nine years, and says, “the R&R family has become like family to me, my husband and our children.

When I call, they recognize my voice. When we need something, they are always there to help. Our backyard oasis has become our

little piece of heaven and serenity, and the children’s extension of our home to spend fun-filled days with their friends.”

To hear Lynn tell it, her children have practically grown up poolside, enjoying endless hours of fun with family and friends.

They’ve gotten plenty of exercise, too, and Lynn can relax because she always knows where her kids are – out back, splashing and whooping it up in their own backyard.

Right pool right now The affordability of an above-ground allows people to purchase the right pool right now, and it’s amazing how quickly it becomes a meeting place to share good times and laughter. An above-ground pool combines recreation and relaxation in a fun social setting that becomes a getaway and your go-to vacation at home! keep the water clean during the season. The good news is you work less and enjoy your pool more!

From a practical standpoint, lot size may be a factor in deciding to get a pool, and above-grounds come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit any family’s needs. They also allow customers to enter the market even if there are septic and/or underground systems in place on a property that might preclude an in-ground pool installation.

Finally, above-ground pools are just plain fun! What could be better than splashing in crystal clear water on a hot summer day with family and friends, creating memories that you’ll cherish forever?

If this is where you want to be this summer, don’t delay! Contact Kara at R&R Pools and start building that dream vacation in your own backyard today!

15’ x 30’ Oval Bedford, NS It also adds tremendous value to a backyard. Design options such as wooden or aluminum decking can customize the look and feel of your outdoor living space, are esthetically pleasing and a wonderful investment in summer family fun. Landscaping is another value-added component that can enhance your property and pool experience.

And an above-ground pool doesn’t permanently alter the backyard, it can be removed, moved or changed at any time, offering owners a significant level of flexibility and choice.

They’re safe for children and pets too, with features like removable ladders and wooden fencing/decking that include gates. Advances in construction materials, engineering and pool technology mean low maintenance. It’s generally easier to keep debris out of above-ground pools, there is less chemical use, and therefore less work to WWW.RRPOOLS.CA

SPRING/SUMMER 2015 / 39

AUTOMATIC, MESH & SOLID SAFETY COVERS

“When our clients think safety, we think Coverstar!”

Ryan Fitzpatrick Kara Redden R&R Pools

Safety is more important to customers than ever, so we recommend Coverstar automatic, mesh and solid safety covers. They feature: t Exclusive innovations for extra strength, like heat-sealed webbing and super-strong seams. t The only WiFi touch pad that delivers text/email alerts when the autocover is activated. t The fastest delivery: autocovers ship in just 24-48 hours; custom mesh/solid covers ship in just 5 days in season!

Latham: Behind every pool...

Behind every dealer!

GET IN ON THE ACTION! 877-576-7498 | CoverstarCanada.com | Latham.ca Proudly manufacturing in Canada since 1971

Canadian Headquarters: 383 Elgin St., Branford ON N3S 7P5 Canada I 800-638-7422

© Latham Pool Products, Inc. 2014. All rights reserved.