tips for keeping a clean, healthy pool

Have you recently had a pool installed or are thinking about having one installed? Are you trying to figure out what you can add to make your pool area more functional or fun to use? For many people, a pool isn't just a place to exercise or to casually hang out in. A pool is more of an extension of their home; it's an outdoor living space. If this sounds like you, then here are some ideas to make your pool more fun and more usable:

Fire pit: There may be days when you want to go swimming but the air is extremely chilly. If you have a heated pool, you don't have to worry about the water temperature on these days, but getting out of the pool can be less than enjoyable. Outdoor fire pits can make a great gathering point for days like this. Outdoor fire pits are also good for parties and backyard gatherings in general. Although they may not usually be meant for cooking, outdoor fire pits are still good places to roast marshmallows to make s'mores. There are also add-ons that you can buy that will allow you to grill or barbecue over your fire pit instead of having to get an additional barbecue grill.

Slide: You don't have to be a kid to enjoy a small slide into a pool. If your pool has a moderately deep end, adding a pool slide can be a great way to make your pool something special. To turn the slide into a water slide, all you need do is use a bracket or a clamp to affix the end of the hose to the top of the slide. It may not be the exact same experience that you'd get at a major water park, but it'll still be fun.

Patio gazebo or awning: There will definitely be days when it will be too hot to be outside. You could use a patio umbrella or two, but those can be too small for your needs, awkward to use, and easily damaged by the elements. A patio gazebo or an awning is a more permanent structure, one that will last you for some time to come. Depending on your pool layout, it's also possible to have an awning constructed over some or all of your pool. This will allow you to spend more time enjoying the hot summer day in your pool without also having to worry about getting a sunburn from staying out too long.

For more information about adding to your pool, talk to companies like Eastgate Pools.