So, you have decided to sell your home with a pool. Will your pool help the sale of kill the deal?1/17/2017   Spring is on the way and so is the time move your family into a new home. A swimming pool is a great addition to any home. It gives years of entertainment, exercise and serenity for family and friends, it can also be the most beautiful part of an outdoor living space.
Who are your potential buyers? Home buyers can be categorized in many different ways. They can be young growing families, professional couples with or without kids, empty nesters or retirees. Your realtor will have much better advice on how to handle those buyer categories. I’d like to talk about three simple buyers. Buyer number one is the one who has no interest in a home that has a pool. You don’t even need to worry about this one, no matter how perfect your home is for them they just are not going to buy a home that has a pool. Buyer number 2 is the buyer who is specifically looking for a home that has a pool. This buyer is more likely to be an emotional one who loves the idea of a pool and all the benefits that it offers. It’s been in their dream and they can see themselves enjoying the pool and outdoor space. Buyer number 3 is the one who isn’t necessarily looking for a home with a pool, but is open to the possibility of your home if is what they are looking for. This buyer knows and likes the benefits and that a pool offers and is more likely to be a logical thinker. Logically, they will balance the benefits of each home being considered, in order to make the decision that fits their needs best. Why should this matter to you as the seller? Everyone who buys a new home has some kind of vision of giving their home a personal touch. It may be simply painting a bedroom or a complete gut and remodel. Most anyone can walk through a big box store and understand what it could possibly cost to remodel a kitchen, for instance. They can calculate the cost of kitchen cabinets, a gallon of paint, 100 square feet of ceramic tile and a new faucet. It’s also possible that in a previous house they have experienced a remodel and its cost. A pool is not the same as the home The average home owner doesn’t have a clue how much is will cost to resurface the interior, replace the tile and coping or a vinyl liner. Worse yet, is the pool is leaking? Will a $5.00 fitting and a little labor fix it? Or does it need to be completely re-plumbed including removing and replacing the concrete deck or brick pavers to get access to the pipes underground? Then there is the concern of safety Do you know that a deeper pool DOES NOT make a safer diving pool? Do you understand how someone can get electrocuted by an un-bonded handrail? Do you know what a safety ledge in the deep end of the pool is, and how unsafe it really is? I’m not asking these questions to make anyone feel bad if they don’t know the answers. The truth is that the typical home owner has no reason to know the answers. I’m only pointing out that in recent years building requirements have changed and that we still see a lot pools that are by today’s standards considered unsafe. A pool can be a deal breaker. A pool, like anything will age and need to have some repairs or updates done on it over time. Not all repairs, maintenance, and updates are expensive. However for someone who doesn’t know how much it could cost they are probably not willing to take the risk for an unknown expense or repair. If your home has a pool that looks like a potential project, it will probably kill the deal. So, how can you prevent losing the sale? I don’t believe that you should just throw money at your pool to make it look new again. Doing that you could end up spending tens of thousands of dollars that you will never recover from the sale. You should have the pool inspected to find out what needs to be done, what can wait and what isn’t an issue. If you do this, you will greatly increase the odds of a fast sale and possibly bring more money on the sale. Contact Doyle Pool today to learn more about how we can help you make the right decisions and not spend a bunch of money.
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 An outdoor kitchen is a true luxury, allowing you to host and entertain without having to step inside from the crowd. From simple barbecue stations to spaces with a full bar and counter top, see how top designers have created the perfect outdoor kitchens. There are no limitations to how an outdoor kitchen can be designed. With appliances such as single or dual fuel grills, ice makers and refrigerators or sinks and storage areas. Doyle Pools can design an outdoor kitchen to fit any space and budget. For a free personal consultation contact Doyle Pools at 989-996-0037.
Economical tanning ledges for every pool Our pool side tanning ledges are a great addition to your new pool or existing pool for fun, relaxation, and just plain prestige. We strive to please by providing both the quality and the "WOW" factor that you deserve for your pool! Share this with your friends. Contact us at 989-996-0037 for more information.  Fashion is a fickle thing, constantly changing: hemlines rise and fall, fabrics gain and lose favor, colors and patterns cycle through popularity. Each era has its own definitive style which encompasses not only the aesthetic, but is also reflective of the cultural norms, moral attitudes, and even available technologies of the time. The corsets and crinolines of Victorian times are a far cry from the miniskirts and platform shoes of the 1960s. Most don’t think of the swimsuit as a culturally significant fashion item, but it has a long and colorful history going back thousands of years with an evolution that might surprise you. And though we can’t be certain, one thing (probably) hasn’t changed at all—the agony and ecstasy of finding the perfect swimsuit. in the beginningPublic bathing was very popular in ancient Greece and Rome. Scholars believe that men and women of the upper class wore swimsuits in the bath houses. The earliest known image of women wearing swimsuits is from the early 4th century. “The Bikini Girls” mosaic decorated the floor of a Roman bath at the Villa Roma de Casale near Piazza Armerina, Sicily. The women are shown exercising and competing in various athletic events clad in what looks much like a modern bikini. The only exercise that didn’t require a swimsuit at the time was swimming. Romans chose to do that in the nude. fashion and beyond
Aaron Steel Aaron is the Digital Marketing Manager for Latham Pool Products. Prior to realizing his dream of working in the swimming pool industry, he spent many years in the software and advertising world as a pixel pusher and script junkie. Aaron is an avid guitar player, weekend novelist, in-home libation manufacturer (aka. Homebrewer) and travel enthusiast. He has lived in exotic locations, climbed Mt. Fuji, swam in the open ocean with sharks, backpacked across Europe, skied the Swiss Alps, dined with the Dalai Lama, survived in a far east jungle for a week with nothing but a poncho and a machete and is currently learning to play the Didgeridoo. All true.
Choosing the right color of glass tile is as important as selecting the size and shape of your pool and spa When it comes to color, glass tile poses few restrictions and a world of possibilities. From deep jewel tones to earthy neutrals and soft pastels, it’s important to find the right hue. For example, the electric intensity of translucent cobalt is a strong pop next to contemporary architecture. On the other hand, rustic design calls for color complexity that relates with natural materials. Saturated blue with golden iridescence will harmonize with features like rusted steel beams, textured limestone decking, and natural wood. The allure of submerged glass tile is intensified through metallic and iridescent finishes. Water’s light-play magnifies through a wide spectrum of reflective finishes. These reflections create unexpected palette shifts, adding layers of movement to the design. The entire look and feel of a pool will drastically change from sunup to sundown. When shadowed, the glass base color is the shining star, but when lighting changes, spectacular iridescence proudly grabs center stage. Cleverly placed landscape and pool lighting make a huge impact on how iridescent tile appears from various vantage points. Balance and continuity are fundamental to the luxury experience and even the simplest design requires imaginative inspiration to achieve the right result. I think of the pool as an extension of surrounding architecture and pull design inspiration from local geography, fauna, flora, and skyline. Within this framework lies a host of creative directions ranging from color and finish interplay to modular patterning and mural design. Progressive designs introduce the element of water. For example, translucent and reflective properties of glass can be used to suggest a lake’s mirrored reflection, or the deep contours of an organically shaped pool can be honed to mimic the smooth curvature of ocean waves. Photo courtesy of Alpentile, LLC; photography by www.michaelwoodall.com; designed by Amy Denny; pool designed and built by Rick Chafey and Brett Blauvelt, Red Rock Pools and Spas, Gilbert, Ariz.; tile by Oceanside Glasstile
In many areas, backyards can be enjoyed throughout the year. A great way to keep the activities going is through the addition of a fire feature. A fire feature is one of the most popular outdoor additions to a pool area. Gas fireplaces and fire pits can be wood burning or – like grills – they can burn natural gas or liquid propane which can require the coordination of several key elements – masonry, gas and plumbing, and stonework. But whichever you choose, fire features provide beautiful, aesthetic places to gather along with warmth for those chilly nights! Fireplace A fireplace can be a beautiful focal feature added to the pool area – designed to complement both the pool and the home’s design. Located on the edge of the pool or patio, they provide lighting in addition to warmth. Fireplaces can be pre-fabricated or can be custom-built and constructed from a variety of materials to blend into your landscape. A fireplace is the best way to make a statement in any backyard landscaping or pool project. This focal feature can take on the design and feel of the house, backyard, or patio. A fireplace functions as more of a focal feature during the day but as the night cools off, it becomes the center of the party! fire pit A fire pit is one of the most common fire features and has practically become a standard backyard installation. Fire pits can range from 3’ wide to as much as 6’ or greater. Many pre-fabricated fire pits are available or they can easily be custom-built to the owner’s or designer’s specifications. A fire pit can be wood burning or setup for natural gas or propane. A wood fire pit can be a great addition but requires cleanup, so, many homeowners prefer a quick and easy gas setup. Fire pits have become popular because of their ability to be the center of an evening of fun, with everyone gathered around it. other fire features Other interesting fire features can include bar and table fire pits. “Ready-to-finish” fire features are a fast, easy, and efficient way to build custom fire features. Assembly of these fire features can be easy and sometimes with no serious carpentry or masonry skills needed. Combine elements by adding fire/water pits or fire lines to your swimming pool area. Customize anything from the size, shape, finish, and fire rock to your outdoor design. fire wall One of the newest trends in pool fire features are fire walls. Most of these walls have flames coming from the top and illuminating the night sky. These walls can also be equipped with water features. These fire water fountains combine the calming sounds of water with the brilliance of fire. With the addition of a fire feature, cool weather doesn’t have to bring a halt to your backyard fun! If you would like to know more about any of theses features or even if you have something different in mind, please feel free to contact Doyle Pools at 989-996-0037 and we will be happy to help.
 Save your landscapingThe home building process can be messy and chaotic. Crew and equipment create a busy and noisy environment. The same is true when building a pool, but on a smaller scale. Your lawn will endure some wear and tear, as will the landscaping. That’s why having your pool installed before the landscaping — while your yard is nothing but dirt — really is the best option. Your plants will thank you! Save your driveway and sidewalksThe last thing you want to do is risk cracking your brand new driveway or freshly poured concrete sidewalk under the weight of construction equipment. The homeowner may be held responsible if the sidewalk is damaged, so be sure you are aware of your city and residential rules. To prevent this, schedule your pool to be installed before the driveway and sidewalk are poured, or instruct crewmembers to avoid driving heavy machinery over the concrete.  Save on electrician and plumbing costsInform the electrician who is working on your new home that a pool is going to be installed so he or she can take steps to make sure the build is seamless and as cost effective and timely as possible. The plumber will also be mindful when installing the necessary hardware to ensure that the home is pool- ready.  Written by aaron steelAaron is the Digital Marketing Manager for Latham Pool Products. Prior to realizing his dream of working in the swimming pool industry, he spent many years in the software and advertising world as a pixel pusher and script junkie. Aaron is an avid guitar player, weekend novelist, in-home libation manufacturer (aka. Homebrewer) and travel enthusiast. He has lived in exotic locations, climbed Mt. Fuji, swam in the open ocean with sharks, backpacked across Europe, skied the Swiss Alps, dined with the Dalai Lama, survived in a far east jungle for a week with nothing but a poncho and a machete and is currently learning to play the Didgeridoo. All true.
 A lagoon-style pool creates the look and feel of a tropical backyard oasis, making it one of the most alluring and requested pool designs among homeowners. While the design of a lagoon pool begins with a freeform shape, it is the addition of rock waterfalls, cave-like grottos, landscaping, and lighting that transform a backyard into an enchanting lagoon environment. Take a look at the enticing features below to gain design inspiration for your own backyard lagoon oasis. Rock Waterfalls A large, cascading rock waterfall (or three) provides the perfect backdrop for a lagoon-style pool, adding both visual and acoustic ambiance. Depending on the width and height, a rock waterfall can also help block out the view and noise from the neighboring area, further boosting the illusion that you’re relaxing in a remote oasis. Many of today’s luxury pool builders are skilled in using natural or artificial rocks—and sometimes a combination of the two—to craft beautiful, authentic-looking waterfalls that blend with the surrounding environment. Caves and Grottos Caves and grottos lend an authentic charm to lagoon-style pools. Just like the natural sea caves that form over time from wave erosion, a pool cave or grotto creates a mysterious nook that beckons to be explored. From an intimate swim-in waterfall grotto where swimmers can relax and watch the water cascade in front of them to a large multi-room cave that houses a swim-up bar, spa, and maybe even a changing area/restroom, the design possibilities are endless. While a pool cave or grotto can be built with natural stone, most are constructed with artificial rocks and boulders because they are lighter in weight than natural rock and can be molded into varying sizes, shapes, and colors to achieve the desired look. Landscaping Landscaping truly sets the scene for a lagoon-style pool by simulating the environment of a tropical cove. Layers of lush, vibrant foliage with large, brawny leaves and irregular shapes bring an exotic tone to the landscape and make the pool appear as though it were a natural body of water. While tropical plants thrive in warm, humid climates, it’s possible to replicate an island environment in cold-climate regions. A variety of cold-hardy plants, including Canna lilies, Japanese fiber banana, Chinese windmill palm, and Autumn Crocus, exude the same bright colors and bold leaves found in tropical landscaping and will withstand the cooler temperatures. Lighting From strategically placed landscape lights that replicate the elegant glow of the stars and moonlight to colorful in-pool lights that change the water’s hue to enticing shades of lavender, turquoise, and emerald, lighting adds dramatic ambiance to a lagoon pool at night.
For example, the mix of pool lighting and landscape lighting incorporated in this lagoon-style pool evokes a mysterious vibe, making it feel as though you’ve stumbled upon a magical oasis. Outdoor lighting also helps illuminate the landscape and walkways so you can safely enjoy your lagoon pool long after the sun has set.  Is your pool trying to send you a message that you just aren’t receiving? Maybe you are wondering if it’s time to get your in-ground pool remodeled, but you aren’t sure. There are plenty of signs that it is time for you to get some work done on your pool. Here are four of them!
Repairs and More Repairs Do you find that every time you head out to swim you notice that something else on your pool has broken? Maybe you just found that your pool water level is dropping due to a small (or large) leak. All of these can lead you to spending a large amount of money on repairs. Pools are made of and run on mechanical systems. If one system keeps failing over and over, or several systems are starting to fail, it may be a sign that you need to replace them. Having your pool remodeled can end up saving you money in the long run. Update that Look Are you starting to feel like your back door is a portal back in time? When you step out onto your patio, do you expect to hear last decade’s hits playing over the radio? A dated look is a good sign that your pool needs a remodel. Trends change over time. Looks that were in all of the magazines lose favor. Don’t keep spending time in your dated pool. Now is the time to bring it up to date. Worn and Used If you enjoy using your pool, then it probably sees a lot of wear and tear. Even if you don’t spend a lot of time in it, the sun, weather and seasons can put a toll on your once beautiful pool. The colors fade, the lights don’t light up as bright and the patio starts to chip and crack. Remove the signs of wear and tear by having a full remodel done. You can breathe life and fun back into your pool with a simple update or go for a full overhaul to change the look entirely. More Is Better Did you have to make some compromises when you had your first pool installed? Now that you are in a better position, maybe it is time to have that old pool made bigger or redesigned. Upgrading the size or even the shape of your pool is a great reason to have your pool remodeled, particularly if you find yourself trying to host large amounts of people with a smaller pool. You want to have enough room for all of your guests to enjoy themselves. This can become a big problem if your children start bringing friends over. Have your pool remodeled to accommodate more people, or have your patio or deck updated for more space! Let Doyle Pools Remodel Your Pool Doyle Pools are your trusted professionals in Lower Michigan. We can take an old pool and make it new again. Call us today, and lets talk about your goals. Oct 14, 2015 / by Aaron Steele  If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a swimming pool but hesitated because your yard sloped, shed your apprehension. Constructing a custom pool on a steep incline is not the least bit uncommon. With the help of a pool builder, the pool of your dreams will become a reality—it’s likely not even as expensive as you think. Together with a professional, you can determine if simple grading is feasible for the construction process to begin. Depending on the regulations of your city or county, you may need to present blueprints and other documentation for approval. From there, you can determine how much of the natural landscape you’re able to modify and draw plans for the remaining land. Pool and Deck FeaturesQuite commonly, sloped-yard pools are enhanced by gorgeous features such as an elevated deck—perfect for a grilling station and chic patio furniture. Waterfalls are aesthetically appealing while also solving the problem of steep terrain that is otherwise in the way of your finished project. Luckily, there are numerous options for waterfalls based on what the topography necessitates. You may opt for a simple waterfall spilling from vertical stone tiles, or you may have to “build up” around the pool with a massive rock feature or multi-level water cascades. Building a pool in a sloping yard also requires meticulous planning for the elements. Tropical trees, large boulders, and groundcover plants are crucial to absorbing and redirecting running water and debris. Consider pool features that serve the overall space both functionally and artistically. Tall stone or glass walls make for a modern look and are ideal for small spaces and urban themes. You might choose to add a hidden staircase that leads down to the pool. Don’t think of walls as a hindrance to your vision; rather, use them to your advantage to create a clean, crisp design that showcases your appreciation for architecture. Practical Pool TypesMuch like decks, spas are a great way to break up multiple levels while maximizing your space and presenting the illusion of a larger, more luxurious backyard pool area. Large or small, a spa might be the most ideal solution to blank spaces on the blueprint and allow for year-round swimming and entertaining. Infinity edge pools create the illusion of a never-ending stream of water—making them the perfect choice for hillsides. The water collects in a reservoir (hidden from the naked eye), allowing for a practical solution to steeper gradients. Many homeowners opt to build lowered patios so the pool sits behind them while they lounge. Others work with the existing topography to build a high wall against the pool with an infinity waterfall. Sloping yards, even those on particularly steep hillsides, don’t have to thwart your plans of having a beautiful backyard oasis. In fact, they entail little more than attention to detail, trusted ingenuity, and guidance from a professional builder.  Written by Aaron SteeleAaron is the Digital Marketing Manager for Latham Pool Products. Prior to realizing his dream of working in the swimming pool industry, he spent many years in the software and advertising world as a pixel pusher and script junkie. Aaron is an avid guitar player, weekend novelist, in-home libation manufacturer (aka. Homebrewer) and travel enthusiast. He has lived in exotic locations, climbed Mt. Fuji, swam in the open ocean with sharks, backpacked across Europe, skied the Swiss Alps, dined with the Dalai Lama, survived in a far east jungle for a week with nothing but a poncho and a machete and is currently learning to play the Didgeridoo. All true.
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