Swimming Pools

centres stock a wide assortment of native and non-native species of plants and trees. There is a huge variety of bright and beautiful options including Tabebuia, Geiger, Neem and Cassias trees. Edible Gardens – Produce gardens can be a bit tricky to establish and maintain, but the wait is well worth it. Locally grown tomatoes are delicious, as are salad leaves and herbs. If you have the space, consider planting fruit trees − they’re great for providing shade too! Vertical Gardens – These ‘living walls’ add a personal touch to patios and balconies. However, they are an expensive addition. Artificial Turf – Many homeowners are turning to artificial turf for a lowmaintenance landscaping solution. Not only can you guarantee your lawn always looks great, but once you get past the initial high cost of installation, it’s a great money saving move. For a list of garden centres please refer to the Shopping chapter.

SWIMMING POOLS

A swimming pool provides a year-round source of recreation. It is worth noting that a pool will cost approximately CI$200 a month to maintain, and adds significantly to your electricity bill and potentially your water bill. For tips on how to run an energy-efficient pool, refer to the Being Green chapter.

Swimming Pool Trends Depending on your budget there are several types of pool features to consider: > Zero entries create a beach style entry into the pool. The entryway slopes into the pool as if you’re walking into the sea. The shallow area is a great spot to let supervised children play. > Plunge pools are perfect for a smaller outdoor space and a swim jet can allow you to swim laps against a current.

> Perimeter overflow pools are an evolution of the infinity pool where the water constantly flows over the edge of the pool. The water runs into a hidden catch basin and is then re-circulated into the pool. Pool Safety Tips for Kids Having a pool on your property comes with serious responsibility. While pool-related tragedies are rare in Cayman, a few have occurred. Every homeowner with a pool should follow these basic safety tips: > Always supervise children when they are in or near a pool, and always ensure that those in a supervisory role are good swimmers! > Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim, including nannies and caregivers. > Secure your pool with barriers. > Install and use a lockable safety cover. > Install pool and gate alarms to alert you when children go near the water. > Keep life vests and an emergency flotation device near the pool. > Everyone in the family should learn how to perform CPR and do basic water rescue training. The Red Cross offers certification programmes. > Keep your pool clean and maintain proper chemical levels to minimise the risk of ear infections and rashes. The following companies in Cayman can

Oasis Pool & Spa Tel: (345) 945 7665 Email: sales@oasis.ky www.oasis.ky Oasis Pool & Spa provides comprehensive outdoor living construction service. From design to completion, they are with you every step of the way to create your dream pool, patio, cabana and outdoor kitchen. Oasis can also renovate your existing pool and patio.

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Pool Patrol Tel: (345) 949 8543 Email: pools@poolpatrol.ky www.poolpatrol.ky Pool Patrol offers you services every step of the way, from pool design and DEH submissions to the final pool and spa construction. They can build your pool from scratch or renovate an existing pool, bringing it back to its former

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DESIGN SERVICE SUPPLY

We Specialise in:

• Full retail store with Cayman’s largest inventory of pool/spa & backyard products • Fully trained and certified staff • Pool and spa service & repairs - commercial and residential • Consultation, design, construction and renovation services