At Goodall Pools & Spas, we enjoy sharing our expertise and experience with our customer family. And we are passionate about pool renovations. So let’s take a look at seven key tips from your favorite inground pool contractor that you can use to guide your springtime swimming pool renovation.

Pool Renovation with a Vinyl Liner Replacement

A vibrant vinyl liner can transform your pool’s appearance, infusing it with new life and color. 

Our skilled technicians can swiftly swap out your old liner for a fresh one, ensuring your pool is ready for another decade-plus of splendor. Consider this the perfect opportunity to dive into additional upgrades, like a chic pool deck overlay or modern lighting.

Pool Renovation Finesse: Elevate Your Pool’s Appeal

Why stop at a new liner? Elevate your pool’s allure with captivating water features from a Goodall Pools swimming pool builder. 

Add the serene sound of cascades, the playful spray of deck jets, or the mesmerizing glow of LED lighting. Structural additions like tanning ledges or stylish staircases can enhance your pool’s functionality and aesthetics. 

From the gentle flow of bubblers to the dramatic flair of scuppers, each addition contributes to your pool’s visual and auditory delight. And with options like in-pool furniture, you can lounge in style while basking in the beauty of your upgraded gathering place. Get your pool in line with your property’s identity.

A Pool Renovation Is a Backyard Renovation

Your inground pool is the centerpiece of your backyard, but it doesn’t need to stand alone. Create a harmonious outdoor retreat by integrating your pool with its surroundings. 

Consider adding a sleek concrete pool deck, a cozy pergola, or an inviting outdoor kitchen. Our goal is to craft a seamless backyard gathering place that delivers relaxation and enjoyment (and maybe shows off, too, just a little).

Sustainable Solutions: Eco-Friendly Pool Renovation

Embrace sustainability with eco-friendly pool renovations that enhance your swimming experience and contribute to a healthier environment. 

Consider upgrading to energy-efficient pool equipment, such as variable-speed pumps and LED lighting, reducing energy consumption and lowering operating costs. Incorporating solar heating systems can also extend your swimming season while minimizing your carbon footprint. 

Safety First: Pool Renovations for Peace of Mind

Safety is paramount in any pool renovation project. Modernize your pool with the latest safety features to ensure a safe swimming experience for you and your family. 

Installing anti-slip surfaces around the pool deck can prevent accidents, while pool alarms and safety covers add an extra layer of protection. Let us help you create a safe and inviting oasis for everyone to enjoy.

Customization Is Key: Pool Renovation for Your Lifestyle

Your pool should reflect your unique lifestyle and preferences. Whether you dream of a serene lap pool for morning workouts or a vibrant, family-friendly pool with a slide and diving board, we can tailor your pool to suit your needs. 

Our experts will work closely with you to create a personalized pool that complements your home and enhances your outdoor living experience.

Expertise at Every Step: Trust Goodall Pools & Spas

At Goodall Pools & Spas, we’re more than just pool builders, we’re creators of backyard dreams. 

From the initial consultation to the final reveal, we’re dedicated to making your pool renovation journey seamless and enjoyable. Trust our expertise to guide you through every decision, ensuring your pool and backyard exceed your expectations. 

Reach out today and learn more about how you can use the season of rejuvenation and renewal to make your swimming pool once again the backyard gathering place you and your family deserve.

There are a lot of factors to consider: the size and shape of the pool, the material the swimming pool is made from, the depth of the pool, and the associated equipment, such as filters, pumps, heaters, and extras, among other things. 

It’s difficult to know for sure what the final cost of an inground pool construction is, but scheduling a consultation with Goodall Pools can help.

Real Swimming Pool Cost Figures

As a Pool & Spa News Top 50 Pool Builder and Top 50 Service Company, and as a company with more than fifty years in the business, we take pride in being able to provide the answers you need to start budgeting and planning your pool project.

First, you need to determine what type of pool build you want. A vinyl-liner pool, fiberglass pool, and custom beach pool all have different pricing.

A modest project for a basic inground pool, with no additional requirements, can start at around $50,000. For a custom beach pool, you can expect somewhere in the ballpark of $100,000 and up. Fiberglass pool installation can fall somewhere in between those ranges. With financing from one of our partners, you can plan the perfect pool no matter how big or small your backyard aspirations.

Need more information? To calculate your inground pool cost with more accuracy, some details will need to be explored. Let’s take a closer look.

Size and Shape: Your New Swimming Pool’s Footprint

Think of your pool as a canvas. The larger and more complex your canvas, the more paint (or in this case, materials and labor) you’ll need. 

A bigger pool not only uses more resources but may also require a more intricate installation process. And if you’re dreaming of a unique shape, prepare for a price that’s just as custom.

Material Mastery: Vinyl, Fiberglass, and Concrete Swimming Pools

Another factor that will impact your swimming pool cost is the choice between fiberglass,  vinyl liner, or concrete. 

Fiberglass pools, known for their durability and low maintenance, typically carry a higher initial investment compared with vinyl liner pools but are less than a custom beach pool. This is due to the pre-formed, one-piece construction of fiberglass pools, which often requires less labor for installation but higher transportation costs. 

On the other hand, vinyl liner pools are generally more budget friendly upfront. They require a custom-built frame to be lined with the vinyl material, making them less expensive initially. 

However, vinyl liners usually need replacement every five to ten years, which can add to long-term costs. While fiberglass pools have a higher upfront cost, their longevity and reduced maintenance requirements often make them more cost effective over time.

A custom beach pool allows you to choose any style or shape you desire. You are never limited by size or shape. With a sloped beach entry and incredible amenities, these pools have a higher price point but may be very worth it with all the features you can add.

Each option brings its own unique set of virtues and value propositions. Vinyl shines with its versatility and value-focused pricing. Fiberglass is celebrated for its low-maintenance, fuss-free nature. And a beach pool offers almost endless possibilities for design and function.

Depth and Detail: Personalizing Your Swimming Pool

Want a wading area for the little ones? Dreaming of a diving board? Each detail, from depth changes to decorative touches, can influence your inground pool cost. 

Custom features like waterfalls, infinity edges, or built-in seating can transform your pool from basic to breathtaking, but they also add to the expense.

Equipment Essentials: Filters, Heaters, and More

The heart of your pool’s functionality lies in its equipment. 

Filters, pumps, heaters, and cleaning systems are the unsung heroes keeping your pool pristine. Opting for high-quality, energy-efficient equipment might cost more upfront but can save you money in the long run.

Preparing for the Unexpected

With any project as big as a new swimming pool construction, it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. Every property and every swimming pool installation is different. Factors that are difficult to anticipate can impact the cost of a new pool project. 

For example, a pool installation requires digging — often a source of variables. Rock and limestone under your backyard increase the cost and difficulty level of the project. Permitting costs are another variable: They can vary from place to place. 

Fair pricing and honest estimates from Goodall Pools help you to remain aware of those factors and manage those surprise costs.

Balancing Budget and Beauty

Understanding the balance between what you desire and what works for your property, your lifestyle, and your family’s budget is key. 

At Goodall Pools & Spas, we believe in transparent, honest pricing, and will work with you to find the perfect blend of beauty and budget. Our goal is to ensure your pool is not just a purchase, but an investment in lifelong memories.

Goodall Pools & Spas has been named a Top 50 Pool Builder as well as a Top 50 Service Provider by Pool & Spa News. We have been in business for over fifty years and we prioritize honest, solution-oriented service. Regardless of your budget, project size, and financing options, a new swimming pool is a major step in enjoying your home. Partner with Goodall to make sure your pool meets all of your expectations. Reach out to us today and let’s talk about your new swimming pool!

Whether you want to relax with friends and family or just enjoy some alone time, these ideas will turn your hot tub space from boring to beautiful!

1. Add Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting can help create an inviting atmosphere and delightful ambience and set the mood for relaxation. With strings of lights or lanterns hung around your hot tub, you can create a comforting ambience in the evening and extend the time spent outside. Chandeliers or wall sconces are also great additions if you have enough space around your hot tub and want to add more elegance.

2. Create Seating Areas with Comfortable Furniture

To really make your hot tub area inviting, consider adding seating areas that feature plush furniture like chaise lounges, hammocks, or outdoor recliners. Make sure they are comfortable so that people can relax after soaking in the hot tub and enjoy spending time outdoors even more. If space permits, add tables too so everyone can enjoy refreshments close by as they lounge around.

3. Incorporate Decorative Accents

Adding decorative accents like throw pillows, blankets, rugs, or plants can give your hot tub area a cozy feel and make it look stylish at the same time. The finishing touches will also help tie together the overall design theme and make it look put together — not like something you threw together overnight!

4. Install a Fire Pit or Fireplace

Nothing beats gathering around a fire pit or fireplace while enjoying quality conversations and drinks under the stars after a long soak in the hot tub — especially during the colder months! Adding a fire pit or a fireplace will give your outdoor space an extra special glow that will surely be the backdrop for many a night spent in your spa creating memories with those you love. 

5. Consider Adding Landscaping Elements

Adding landscaping elements such as trees or shrubs can give your outdoor space more privacy while providing aesthetic appeal at the same time! An herb garden by the hot tub is another great way to add interest for both the eye and the nose. Planting flowers nearby can also give off vibrant colors for visual interest that will bring out beauty in any season throughout the year – plus they’re easy on maintenance too! 

With these five simple ways to create a hot tub haven, you’ll be able to easily transform any boring backyard into an inviting oasis! Looking for more inspiration to jazz up your hot tub area? Check out our online gallery of backyard pools and hot tubs for some fantastic ideas. Keep your eye on our blogs for other helpful information and stop by one of our conveniently located showrooms and learn more about maximizing your outdoor living space.

1. The Perfect Blend of Fitness and Relaxation

Swim spas offer the best of both worlds: the invigorating benefits of swimming combined with the soothing properties of a spa. Whether you’re an avid swimmer looking to improve your technique or simply seeking a low-impact exercise option, a swim spa provides an unparalleled aquatic experience. You can adjust the water flow to create a current that matches your swimming ability, allowing for a challenging workout or a gentle hydrotherapy session.

2. Compact and Versatile Design

One of the most significant advantages of swim spas is their compact size, making them ideal for small backyards or limited outdoor spaces. Additionally, their versatility extends beyond swimming and fitness. Most swim spas come equipped with built-in seating areas, hydrotherapy jets, and adjustable temperature controls. This easily turns them into luxurious hot tubs, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

3. Swim Spa Health Benefits Galore

Swim spas offer a myriad of health benefits that go beyond typical backyard water features. The combination of buoyancy and resistance created by the water helps alleviate joint pain and promote muscle relaxation. Hydrotherapy jets, strategically placed throughout the swim spa, provide targeted massage and hydro-massage options, easing sore muscles and enhancing circulation. Regular use of a swim spa has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, increased flexibility, and reduced stress levels.

4. Year-Round Enjoyment

One of the most significant advantages of owning a swim spa is that it can be enjoyed throughout the year. While traditional pools are often limited to seasonal use, swim spas can be used in any weather. Whether you want to cool off during scorching summer days or bask in the warmth while surrounded by snow, a swim spa offers a year-round oasis for relaxation and exercise.

5. Fun for the Whole Family in a Swim Spa

Fitness pools aren’t just for fitness fanatics, they are a wonderful space to spend time with friends and family. Teach the kids to swim or relax and enjoy the fresh air. You simply can’t beat the fun it brings to the whole family.  

With all of the incredible ways a swim spa enhances the enjoyment of your home, it’s no wonder they have emerged as the ultimate backyard retreat. These unique aquatic amenities offer the benefits of a swimming pool, a spa, and a fitness center in one compact and versatile package. So, if you’re looking to create your own personal oasis, a swim spa might just be the perfect addition to your backyard, transforming it into a haven of tranquility and well-being. At Goodall Pools & Spas, you’ll find the self-cleaning Hydropool, an incredible swim spa with industry-leading features and stylish designs. Contact us today to learn more!

Recognizing a Luxury Swimming Pool Builder

At Goodall Pools & Spas, we’ve spent more than 60 years mastering the art and science of pool building. From design to project management to your ongoing enjoyment of your backyard oasis, we know what is expected of us to deliver the gold standard in pools.

Here, we will explore some of the key factors that we prioritize as a Top 50 Pool Builder. Keep these in mind when researching a luxury swimming pool builder, and you will fast-track yourself to success.

Experience and Reputation

A reputable builder should have a track record of successful projects and be knowledgeable in all aspects of pool construction. Does that mean every pool builder needs to be in the business for 60 years to be reputable? No. It does mean, however, that they can reference successful projects, satisfied customers, and, eventually, credits and/or awards within the industry.

Therefore, hunt for testimonials and reviews. Keep an eye out for mentions of the pool builder in trade periodicals and websites. And ask to see examples of past projects. Remember that not all clients want the same thing. So as you browse past projects, ask questions about how the design coincided with the owner’s goals. If the pool builder can speak eloquently about the design elements and how well it met the customer’s needs, that’s a sign of a quality pool builder.

Customer Service

Good customer service is essential when choosing any pool builder. Staff should be easy to communicate with and be responsive to your needs and concerns throughout the project. They should also be willing to provide you with regular updates on the progress of the project and be available to answer any questions you may have.

Customization

Customization is a quintessential characteristic of a luxury swimming pool. Therefore, a luxury swimming pool builder should be able to create a design that meets your specific needs. Here are some elements to keep in mind when considering customization:

Pool Type. Goodall designs pool environments consisting of vinyl-liner pools, fiberglass pools, and Biodesign Beach Pools. Vinyl-liner pools and Biodesign Beach Pools offer the most customizability in terms of size, shape, and additional features. Fiberglass pools consist of a pre-fabricated pool shell and are, thus, fixed in size and shape. However, the pool surround is customizable.

Design Scope. No matter how much of the pool environment will be built from scratch, a luxury swimming pool builder should be able to offer a wide range of design options, from traditional to modern. 

Special Features. They should also be able to suggest features that can enhance the performance and enjoyment of your pool, such as heating systems, automation, and filtration systems. They should also be able to suggest design features that can elevate the look and feel of the pool such as cascades, deck jets, or LED lighting.

Financing Options

Building a luxury pool is a significant investment. As such, it’s essential to consider your financing options. A reputable luxury swimming pool builder should be able to offer financing options that suit your budget and needs. They should be able to work with you to determine the best financing option, such as a home equity loan or pool loan.

Luxury Swimming Pool Builder in Central Pennsylvania

Selecting the right luxury swimming pool builder is crucial to ensure that your pool is constructed to the highest standards and meets your specific needs. By taking the time to research and select the right builder, you can enjoy your luxury swimming pool for years to come.

When you’re ready to launch the design of your luxury swimming pool, contact us at Goodall Pools & Spas. We’ll connect you to our design team so you can see that dream pool in your backyard asap. Don’t have a dream pool in your mind yet? Visit our Gallery for some inspiration.

Ideas for Your Pool Surround

With a little creativity, you can transform your pool surround into a stunning outdoor retreat that looks like you spent a million bucks. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Incorporate a natural stone look.

Natural stone is a timeless and elegant choice for pool surrounds. It can create a cohesive look that blends seamlessly with the rest of your backyard. But what if actual limestone, travertine, and/or sandstone aren’t as accessible as you hoped? Fear not. Concrete is so much more than it used to be.

There are so many concrete applications nowadays that resemble the best of nature’s rocky treasures. With customizable colors, textures, and patterns at your disposal, you can achieve a look that looks like a luxurious Roman villa for a Central Pennsylvania price.

2. Add water features to the pool surround.

Yes, you can add a water feature or two to your pool surround. Deck jets are a popular choice when owners want to add a little more aquatic pizzazz to their design. These small but mighty features send a thin arc of water from the pool deck to the water, adding a dimension and sonic character to the overall environment.

3. Install outdoor lighting.

Outdoor lighting can completely transform the look of your entire pool environment – especially the surround. With a few well-placed LED components adding subtle illumination to the hardscape, you’ll enhance both the ambiance and safety of the pathway.

4. Tend to the greenery.

You’ve heard us say time and again that it’s not just about the pool. That means your entire backyard shares the spotlight with your pool. That being said, remember to tend to the greenery around your pool. When the grass and plant life look lush and manicured, your pool surround will appear grander and more luxurious.

5. Install a fire pit.

If your pool surround includes ample patio space, consider installing a fire pit. You can opt for a traditional wood-burning fire pit or choose a gas-powered option for convenience. Be sure to choose a location that is a safe distance from the pool and any flammable materials. The result is an inviting space for warm, cozy nighttime gatherings.

6. Create a seating area.

A seating area is a versatile addition to your pool surround. It provides a place to relax and soak up the sun or read a book in the shade. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for a traditional patio set or go for a more unconventional option such as a hanging chair or hammock. Be sure to choose furniture that is durable and weather-resistant like the Ledge Lounger pool furniture we carry at Goodall. 

7. Add a pergola.

A pergola can add height and geometric interest to your pool surround, creating a focal point for the space. It can also provide shade and privacy if you choose to grow climbing plants such as vines or bougainvillea. At Goodall, we carry Toja Grid DIY pergola kits. These are sturdy, stylish, and easy to assemble so you can make the most of your outdoor space.

A Pool Surround by a Top 50 Pool Builder

When you work with Goodall Pools & Spas, you’re choosing to have a pool (and a pool surround) built by a Top 50 Pool Builder. That means your design will look like a million bucks, no matter what. So go ahead, and dream big! Then, contact us or visit one of our five Central Pennsylvania locations. Our expert staff will help you tackle your project, whether it’s building a new pool or renovating your current one.

Advantages of Planning a Backyard Wedding

There are many advantages to holding a backyard wedding, cost being one of them. The average wedding in the United States costs $30,000. It turns out that it is possible to plan a backyard wedding that costs considerably less than that.

Another advantage to holding a backyard wedding is that you have your pick of dates. Additionally, there are no time constraints on how long your party can last. Plus, if you hold your wedding poolside, it is the perfect backdrop for your ceremony, your photographs, and your dining experience. 

First Steps to Planning Your Backyard Wedding

No matter where your wedding is going to take place, there are some basic decisions you need to make right away. Obviously, if your backyard wedding is going to be a small one, the more things you may be able to do yourself or with the help of friends and family. You should decide:

• How many guests will you invite? A backyard wedding is naturally more intimate and is an ideal reason to keep your guest list small. 
• What vendors do you need to line up? Florist, caterer, DJ, rental furniture, tent rental, photographer, and cake baker are just some of the vendors you must arrange for.
• Will you need a serving and clean-up crew?
• What landscaping or yard work is necessary to ready the venue?

How to Use the Pool to the Best Advantage

The swimming pool is a lovely setting for a party. Here are some ways you can decorate the backyard to make it an ideal backdrop for your celebration. 

• Setting up an altar by the pool. This is a wonderful way to make exchanging your vows a memorable vision for guests and photos.
• Extend your floral decor into the pool with floating arrangements. Floating lanterns are a lovely touch as well.
• Make sure you have plenty of extra atmospheric lighting for when the sun goes down.
• Set up a photo-op area with the pool as a backdrop. Your guests will enjoy composing and taking their own photos.
• Set up your dining area under a tent, with a view of the pool for guests to enjoy while dining.

Have a Back-Up Plan For Rain

Here in Pennsylvania, we have over a 30% chance of rain each day during the month of July. These statistics indicate that it is a wise move to have a backup plan for your backyard wedding in case of inclement weather. It is a good idea to rent a tent or even two. One tent can be dedicated to dining and food/drinks serving and the other can be designated for dancing at the reception, and as a potential retreat should the skies open up at the time of the ceremony. 

Saying “I do” in a homey setting generates a nostalgic feeling that can’t be duplicated in an unfamiliar venue. Your backyard pool setting will create cherished memories for you and your guests and make the day even more special. We hope these ideas on how to design a backyard for a homey but lovely backyard wedding in Pennsylvania have been helpful! We know how important having the details of your wedding be perfect, and we think holding it poolside will be the ultimate choice. Remember Goodall Pools is here with all your Central Pennsylvania pool supply needs, and is dedicated to helping our customers make their backyard dreams come true.

Where Do You Place It?

A tanning ledge is an entry point for your pool. It is typically about 9 inches deep and a minimum of 5 feet wide. A 5-foot width will accommodate one or two chaise lounges. If it is deeper than 9 inches your furniture will float, which you do not want. The ledge should extend into the pool at least 4 feet (the length of a chaise lounge). Wider ledges can even fit an umbrella or a small table for drinks.

Why Do People Like Tanning Ledges?

People love tanning ledges as a place to relax in the water without having to swim. It is a perfect location for sunbathing and enjoying the cool pool water at the same time. It is an oasis where one can keep cool, read a book, or enjoy a refreshing drink. 

Who Benefits from One?

Everyone seems to love a tanning ledge! The shallow depth makes them a perfect spot to introduce tots to the water, and kids seem to adore splashing around on them. They are also an ideal location for adults to sit and watch older kids while they swim and have fun in the pool. Many adults love the idea of cooling off in the pool but don’t want to fully submerge themselves in the water. The tanning ledge is a great spot for the grownups to cool off and socialize. And believe it or not, Fido may even get up the nerve to venture into the water in the safety of the tanning ledge’s shallow depth. 

What Kind of Furniture Can You Put on a Tanning Ledge?

Obviously, you want furniture that you can place on your tanning ledge that will stay put and not float away. Goodall Pools & Spas has recently started to carry a line called Ledge Loungers, which include contoured chaise lounges made of material that can be submerged in water. They are made in the USA out of UV-resistant resin, which is meant to last. They give a custom stylish look to your poolside, which is why many high-end hotels and resorts are including them in their poolside furnishings. 

What Type of Pool Accommodates a Tanning Ledge?

This feature can be incorporated into concrete, vinyl liner, and fiberglass pools. There may be some advantages to choosing a fiberglass pool if you want a tanning ledge because many models already come with this feature and can be installed relatively quickly compared to the construction process of other types of pools. Goodall offers a number of fiberglass pool options with tanning ledge features. 

Is a tanning ledge right for you? If you wonder how a tanning ledge enhances your luxury pool, there are a number of reasons. They are great for those who want to get the very most out of their backyard pools. Adults enjoy them for tanning, reading, and socializing. They are a non-threatening place for small children to splash and play while their parents are right nearby. People with mobility issues may find a tanning ledge an easier entry into the pool than a series of steps. If you are interested in maximizing your swimming pool enjoyment with this feature, talk to the professionals at Goodall for more information. 

The pool industry is currently booming with innovative ideas that will bring creativity and beauty to your backyard like nothing we have seen in recent years. People desire more than just a place to swim these days. They want multi-functional outdoor areas that lend themselves to entertaining, outside living, and recreation. Above all, pool owners want outside living areas that stand out in terms of functionality and aesthetics. 

As a Top 50 pool builder in Central Pennsylvania, Goodall Pools is your number one resource when it comes to innovative ideas in luxury pool design. If you are weary of traditional kidney-shaped pools with a slide or basketball hoop tacked on as an afterthought, read on for some really creative new ideas in unique swimming pool design trends. 

Opt for a Swimming Pool with a Contemporary Style

Pool design in 2023 is leaning towards a more contemporary style, with clean lines and fewer curves. New home architecture is trending in a more modern direction, and people want backyard designs that mesh with this style, which means we are seeing more rectangular and square-shaped pools. Working with an experienced pool builder such as Goodall Pools is essential to make sure that your end result strikes the right balance with the style of your home.

More Color Options for Your Swimming Pool

Today’s swimming pools are drifting away from the traditional aqua colors of the past. Darker colors are trending as are some wonderful selections of mosaic tile designs. Darker tones promote a relaxing, lagoon-like feeling, and attract sunlight well, which can reduce heating costs.

Bringing Garden Hardscape Into the Pool

It is common when putting in a new swimming pool, to design your garden landscaping around it. A modern look that is popular is to surround the pool with squares of stone or concrete that are separated by strips of grass or smaller stones.

Some designers are bringing the look of these paver steps right into the pool. We have seen some striking examples of “floating pavers” that continue from the surrounding landscaping right into the pool itself. Not only does the square or rectangular shape of the pavers imitate the clean lines of the pool, but they also direct the user right into the pool itself.

Tanning Platforms in Your Swimming Pool

Pool design has moved some distance from the tanning ledge that has been popular for a few years. People gravitated toward the concept of doing their sunbathing right in the pool rather than alongside it. Tanning platforms that extend the entire width of the shallow end of the pool are an exciting new trend. In addition, outdoor furniture design has embraced the trend with a great selection of submersible lounge chairs.

Fire and Water Features for the Modern Swimming Pool

Water features have long been a big trend in pool design. These days, however, the sky is the limit when it comes to this element. Multi-level water spills are popular, as are trios of matching water spouts along one end of the pool. Illuminated water spill bowls are a dramatic addition to today’s swimming pools. Fire features incorporated into the area surrounding the pool itself are a dramatic option. Walls of fire at one end of the pool, or bowls that combine both a water spill and fire are novel ideas that are trending.

Dramatic Lighting 

Pool designers are now commonly capping things off with dramatic lighting that highlights their innovative pool features. People are using their outdoor living areas as an extension to their indoor spaces, and therefore are enjoying their patios and pool areas after dark. Illuminating fire and water features as well as architectural elements is a striking way to dramatize creative design elements around the pool. 

Whether you are considering new pool construction (vinyl-lined or fiberglass) or a renovation to your current pool, there are countless ways to make your pool stand out. If you have wondered how to have a swimming pool that looks nothing like the neighbor’s, Goodall Pools has plenty of ideas as to how you can achieve that goal. Come into one of our 5 locations and talk with our expert pool designers and let’s work together to create a truly unique swimming pool and outdoor living space for your family. Be sure to ask about Biodesign Beach Sculpted Pools!

What is a Barrel Sauna?

A barrel sauna uses steam to induce sweating in its users. It’s one of the most popular styles of saunas today, offering both traditional Finnish-style heat and convenience. They’re typically 4-6 feet in diameter and 5-7 feet tall, making them easy to install indoors or outdoors. Thermory® Saunas, like the kind we carry at our Mechanicsburg store, are more than seven feet in diameter and have an interior of almost 250 cubic feet.

The barrel shape is designed to maximize the heat retention inside the sauna room while still allowing for full access to the interior benches and flooring. This design also traps condensation inside its walls creating moisture levels similar to those found in a traditional steam room. The barrel shape has become popular due to its efficiency in providing intense temperatures without taking up too much space. 

How Does a Barrel Sauna Work?

In a barrel sauna, the heat source raises the temperature of stones gathered in a metal receptacle in the sauna’s back wall. When water is applied to these hot stones, it boils off into steam. As more steam is created, it rises up through channels built into the barrel interior, releasing hot moisture throughout the sauna room. 

The amount of steam created can be adjusted by modifying the amount of water poured over the hot stones. This helps users adjust the level of humidity for their desired comfort level. It also ensures that you get all the relaxation and health benefits associated with a sauna.

What Are Barrel Saunas Made From?

Barrel saunas are usually made with high-performing softwood (e.g., northern white cedar or western red cedar). These woods have a high resistance to rot and decay while also offering a pleasant aroma when heated. 

Thermory Saunas are made from Nordic spruce. No wood cutting is required as all the components come premeasured in a kit.

What Are Some Health Benefits of Barrel Saunas?

The barrel sauna offers many health benefits that can be enjoyed by both regular users and occasional visitors alike. During a barrel sauna session, the body’s core temperature rises which helps relax muscles and relieve tension. Additionally, barrel saunas are thought to stimulate circulation while providing relief from aches, pains, and respiratory ailments such as sinus congestion. 

Beyond physical health benefits, barrel saunas offer psychological benefits as well. The warmth of the steam creates an environment conducive to relaxation and introspection. As your body decompresses, the “feel good” chemicals serotonin and dopamine are released in your brain. This contributes to boosted mood, reduced stress, and better sleep.

Where Did Barrel Saunas Originate?

The barrel sauna originated in Finland, the birthplace of modern sauna culture. Finnish barrel saunas were traditionally constructed from logs and heated with a wood-burning stove using stones to create steam. This traditional method continues to be used today, though barrel saunas are now also available as electric versions for more convenience. 

Roll Out the Barrel Sauna!

With a variety of wellness benefits and a touch of traditional European elegance, barrel saunas make an exquisite addition to your private oasis. Contact us or visit the Goodall Pools & Spas Mechanicsburg store today. Our staff will be happy to help you roll out a new kind of barrel this year that will put you on the path to a new you!