Pools are definitely nice to have around for a number of reasons.  Aside from its aesthetic function, pools can provide a healthy lifestyle for you and your family.  It also presents you with a great avenue to bond with family and friends.

Up until recently, we are only familiar with the chlorinated pool. This type of pool utilizes chemical disinfectants like chlorine and bromine to prevent the growth of bacteria and other viruses. Chlorine has been proven to be effective in eliminating harmful microbes in swimming pools. However, studies have shown that chlorinated pools may cause adverse health effects such as heightened risks to respiratory diseases and certain cancers; therefore more and more people are seeking safer alternatives.

Chlorine is a highly reactive gas that can easily disperse into the earth’s atmosphere. However, a sudden release of chlorine into the pool can pose immediate dangers to the swimmers. It can cause injury to the individual’s esophagus, stomach and digestive tract. Moreover, people who have existing respiratory diseases have an increased likelihood of developing reactive airways dysfunction syndrome or RADS.

A chlorinated pool typically releases three times its volume capacity into the sewer system annually. This is not only expensive but also harmful to the ecological system. Moreover, chlorine contributes to the hydrochloric acid in rainfalls and also to the destruction of the troposphere that resulted in the prevalence of urban smog.

Natural pools are one such alternative that people have been turning to. Dl Werner Gamerith made the first natural swimming pool in his private garden in Austria in the early 1980s. This was locally known as Schwimmteich however, it wasn’t made public until 1990 in an effort to present people with a healthier, chemical-free substitute.

Natural pools are cleaned through the motion of water moving past biological filters and plants fixed hydroponically.  Hydroponics is a manner of growing plants without soil and utilizing only mineral solution. The biological filtering process virtually eradicates the problems you normally encounter in chlorinated pools. Problems such as bleached bathing suits, dry skin and hair and red eyes are rendered non-existent.

Natural pools are not only chemical-free but they use less water than chlorinated pools.  They also promote a healthy ecological system by serving as a habitat for all sorts of living things. Over time, natural pools can save you money on maintenance costs for various chemicals and replacements for artificial filters.

Natural may not always be healthy or good for us but preserving Mother Nature for the future generation is always appreciated and the right thing to do.

References:

http://news.discovery.com/human/chlorinated-pools-swimming-cancer.html

http://www.livestrong.com/article/135829-the-effects-pool-chlorine-environment/

http://en.wikipedia.org

Environmental awareness is not something new and throughout history, some degree of environmental awareness is being thought of and implemented.  For example, increased consumption of fossil fuels brought on awareness to air pollution. The industrialization of countries shifted the focus to water pollution which gave the environmentalist more things to champion.

In recent years, environmental awareness has shifted to global warming and focused on reducing individual carbon footprint. Global warming refers to the increasing temperature of our atmosphere.  This is a direct result of air pollution and deforestation.

Chlorine is a chemical primarily used for disinfecting. It primarily affects the environment through the air and water. Surprisingly, chlorine is naturally occurring in plants and it is an essential nutrient for photosynthesis so it doesn’t pose a big threat when diluted.   However, this is not true for animals.  Studies have shown that chlorine in the air can adversely affect the immune system, heart, respiratory system and the blood of animals, including humans.  It is especially dangerous for organisms living in the soil and water such as fishes.

With that said, natural swimming pools are best at keeping a balanced ecosystem in our environment. Why? Natural swimming pools do not contain any harmful chemicals like chlorine or bromine.  While this does not pose an immediate danger to plants in its diluted form, this can kill any organism it comes in contact with in the soil and water.  This would include bacteria that are essential to the vegetation’s ability to extract nutrients from the soil. Moreover, natural pools won’t pose any danger to aquatic lives in nearby rivers and lakes in case of spills.

Natural pools also serve as a sustainable habitant for various living things like plants, amphibious and aquatic creatures.  Pool owners have seen frogs, salamanders and snails setting up shop in their natural swimming pools.  Migrating birds have been noted to stop over natural swimming pools too during winter.

Maintaining a chlorinated pool increases the risk of endangering neighboring plants and animals. This can severely upset the balance of our eco system and lead to more serious issues that contribute to global warming. Resolving to choose natural swimming pools over the chlorinated ones would enhance the existing ecosystem of your home. A healthy ecosystem can help minimize air and water pollution that reduces our carbon footprint. After all, this is the only world we got and we are all responsible in taking care of it.

Reference:

http://en.wikipedia.org/

http://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/cl.htm

http://www.epa.gov/chemfact/f_chlori.txt

http://www.mcspotlight.org/media/reports/wenchlorine.html

http://www.allaboutlawns.com/lawn-maintenance-care/fertilizing/does-pool-chlorine-damage-lawns.php

If you are planning to put in a natural swimming pool, it’s best to get an expert.  Natural pools are recent innovations; hence a lot can go wrong if it is not done properly by a professional. However, don’t let them have all the fun! Collaborating on a pool design can be exciting with the various design possibilities out there.  It also wouldn’t hurt to know the basics so you can check the contractor’s work.

The natural swimming pool consists of two areas, the swimming area and the regeneration area.  The swimming area is similar to the conventional swimming pool intended for swimming while the regeneration area houses the biological filters that cleans the water.

Ideally, they should occupy the same amount of area to be able to achieve optimal filtration. However, with the recent advancements in natural swimming pools, there is no minimum depth required for the swim area and the space allocation for the regeneration area is reduced to a minimum.  Nevertheless, the swimming area should be detached from the regeneration zone. The biological filters can be placed adjacent to the pool area or even at a remote location depending on the layout.

The filtration process utilizes gravity to get the water flowing from the swim area to the various distribution channels initiating the biological process.  Hydroponically planted vegetation sustains itself by removing any contaminants and bacteria, which serves as its primary source of nutrients. These include a wide variety of emergent, submerged and floating plants like cattail, purple loosestrife, blueflag or water lilies, which will be carefully positioned for optimal filtration process.

Most contractors would say the hardest part in designing a natural swimming pool is getting the precise water circulation so the water remains crystal clear. However, you’d be interested to know that during the first few days after installing, water discoloration should be expected due to algae growth. No cause for alarm since it doesn’t pose any harm and should settle in nicely soon enough.

The range of design for the swim area is diverse. Materials may also vary from gravel to stone and can even include recycled construction materials.  You can get inspirations from photos on the internet. There is an assorted selection of design from classic contemporary like the infinity pool to incorporating your natural swimming pool with the existing landscape. A natural pool is unconventional in itself hence there is no clear-cut rule on what you can and can’t do.

References:

http://www.thedailygreen.com/green-homes/latest/natural-swimming-pools-460908

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

http://www.motherearthnews.com/Do-It-Yourself/2002-08-01/Natural-Swimming-Pool.aspx

http://fivevalleysnaturalpools.co.uk/

http://www.gardenvisit.com/garden_products/water/natural_swimming_pond

http://www.bbc.co.uk/bloom/actions/naturalswimmingpool.shtml

Everybody is probably familiar with the dizzying smell of chlorine when swimming in a pool.  Not to mention the bleached out designer bathing suit that doesn’t seem to last you more than a year. Are you forgetting the constant red eyes and dry hair that’s always a constant when you take a dip in a chlorinated pool? What about the constant health scares the experts are regularly feeding the public?

With all these side effects that chlorinated pools present, it’s a surprise that natural swimming pool only came to be in the 1980s. Still, it’s always better late than never.

Natural swimming pools, like chlorinated pools, provide an aesthetic value to your home.  Don’t you notice how you always feel that a home is beautiful after you get a glimpse of the pool? A natural pool can match the picturesque scenery that adds in the knockout factor to every home.  It also doesn’t hurt that it increases your home’s property value.

Essentially, swimming is good for your health but swimming in a natural pool can offer genuine health advantages missing in chlorinated pools.  Pools high in chlorine can harm your esophagus, stomach and digestive tract.  It can also aggravate any existing respiratory ailments.  Moreover, natural water is smoother compared to water laden with chemicals and it does not sting or irritate your skin.

The absence of machines in natural swimming pool makes it self-sufficient; hence it will be more economical in the long run.  Machines rust and they break down and sometimes; they need replacements or repairs.  This entails more money to maintain a chlorinated pool.  With a natural swimming pool, once your mini ecosystem finds its equilibrium and stabilized, it would need far less maintenance as it will take care of itself.

The best one of all is that you are helping to preserve Mother Nature for the younger generations. You’ll be providing a viable habitat for various living things, big and small. It’s also less chlorine in our soil, rivers and sewage system and in the air that contributes to the hydrochloric acid in the rainfall and urban smog, which resulted from the destruction of the troposphere.

Natural swimming pool is your answer to having a healthier lifestyle without the expensive price tag that comes with conventional chlorinated pools. It also satisfies your desire to be environment-friendly and you won’t even have to sacrifice the aesthetics just to fit your budget!

Reference:

http://www.naturalswimmingpools.com/

http://www.gartenart-australia.com/

http://www.iwebnet.com/terravita-gardens/english/naturalpool.htm

A cottage is usually a small cozy home in a rural place and in some countries; it is used to refer to a vacation or summer home. You’re probably wondering if those still exist beyond the 19^th century when the nobilities have their country cottages where they retreat to frequently to avoid the circus of the King’s court.

People often run to their country cottages to get away from the stress and hustle of the city. It would be nice to have a little place where you can have a home away from home.  Unfortunately, not everyone can afford expensive properties even in the countryside. So what’s your next best option?

You need to know something first. What is the appeal of a country cottage to you? Is it that vast, lush green backdrop of the countryside? It could be that you find the solitude welcoming. It might be because you find that being close to Mother Nature relaxes you.  Whichever one it is, a natural swimming pool can be that and a whole lot more.

If you haven’t considered constructing your own natural swimming pool in your backyard, you might want to start looking into it. Unlike your conventional swimming pool, the natural swimming pool harmonizes with your surroundings.  It enhances the aesthetics of your home and has the potential to be your perennial cottage in your very own backyard. Skeptics might wonder how a swimming pool can achieve all that.

The natural swimming pool utilizes biological filters composed of various plants that are floating, emerged or submerged in your natural pool. These plants also add a certain visual flair to your backyard. You can get yourself lost in the moment and maybe for just one minute, you’re actually convinced that you are in a country cottage. It’s definitely different from the cold concrete walls of a conventional swimming pool.

Since the natural swimming pool houses a lot of living creatures, your backyard plays hosts to a variety of flowers, dragon flies, salamanders, snails, frogs, crabs and even turtles.  You can’t get any closer to Mother Nature than that!

With these beautiful miracles around you, you can easily get lost in the moment. Soon, you’ll realize that the bright lights of the city and the loud roars of traffic dies as you immerse and absorb into your surroundings. Before you realize it, you’ll find yourself relaxed and calm; and ready to take on another day!

Reference:

http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/an-englishmans-home-is-his-castle.html

Pools are definitely nice to have around for a number of reasons.  Aside from its aesthetic function, pools can provide a healthy lifestyle for you and your family.  It also presents you with a great avenue to bond with family and friends.

Up until recently, we are only familiar with the chlorinated pool. This type of pool utilizes chemical disinfectants like chlorine and bromine to prevent the growth of bacteria and other viruses. Chlorine has been proven to be effective in eliminating harmful microbes in swimming pools. However, studies have shown that chlorinated pools may cause adverse health effects such as heightened risks to respiratory diseases and certain cancers; therefore more and more people are seeking safer alternatives.

Chlorine is a highly reactive gas that can easily disperse into the earth’s atmosphere. However, a sudden release of chlorine into the pool can pose immediate dangers to the swimmers. It can cause injury to the individual’s esophagus, stomach and digestive tract. Moreover, people who have existing respiratory diseases have an increased likelihood of developing reactive airways dysfunction syndrome or RADS.

A chlorinated pool typically releases three times its volume capacity into the sewer system annually. This is not only expensive but also harmful to the ecological system. Moreover, chlorine contributes to the hydrochloric acid in rainfalls and also to the destruction of the troposphere that resulted in the prevalence of urban smog.

Natural pools are one such alternative that people have been turning to. Dl Werner Gamerith made the first natural swimming pool in his private garden in Austria in the early 1980s. This was locally known as Schwimmteich however, it wasn’t made public until 1990 in an effort to present people with a healthier, chemical-free substitute.

Natural pools are cleaned through the motion of water moving past biological filters and plants fixed hydroponically.  Hydroponics is a manner of growing plants without soil and utilizing only mineral solution. The biological filtering process virtually eradicates the problems you normally encounter in chlorinated pools. Problems such as bleached bathing suits, dry skin and hair and red eyes are rendered non-existent.

Natural pools are not only chemical-free but they use less water than chlorinated pools.  They also promote a healthy ecological system by serving as a habitat for all sorts of living things. Over time, natural pools can save you money on maintenance costs for various chemicals and replacements for artificial filters.

Natural may not always be healthy or good for us but preserving Mother Nature for the future generation is always appreciated and the right thing to do.

References:

http://news.discovery.com/human/chlorinated-pools-swimming-cancer.html

http://www.livestrong.com/article/135829-the-effects-pool-chlorine-environment/

http://en.wikipedia.org

Environmental awareness is not something new and throughout history, some degree of environmental awareness is being thought of and implemented.  For example, increased consumption of fossil fuels brought on awareness to air pollution. The industrialization of countries shifted the focus to water pollution which gave the environmentalist more things to champion.

In recent years, environmental awareness has shifted to global warming and focused on reducing individual carbon footprint. Global warming refers to the increasing temperature of our atmosphere.  This is a direct result of air pollution and deforestation.

Chlorine is a chemical primarily used for disinfecting. It primarily affects the environment through the air and water. Surprisingly, chlorine is naturally occurring in plants and it is an essential nutrient for photosynthesis so it doesn’t pose a big threat when diluted.   However, this is not true for animals.  Studies have shown that chlorine in the air can adversely affect the immune system, heart, respiratory system and the blood of animals, including humans.  It is especially dangerous for organisms living in the soil and water such as fishes.

With that said, natural swimming pools are best at keeping a balanced ecosystem in our environment. Why? Natural swimming pools do not contain any harmful chemicals like chlorine or bromine.  While this does not pose an immediate danger to plants in its diluted form, this can kill any organism it comes in contact with in the soil and water.  This would include bacteria that are essential to the vegetation’s ability to extract nutrients from the soil. Moreover, natural pools won’t pose any danger to aquatic lives in nearby rivers and lakes in case of spills.

Natural pools also serve as a sustainable habitant for various living things like plants, amphibious and aquatic creatures.  Pool owners have seen frogs, salamanders and snails setting up shop in their natural swimming pools.  Migrating birds have been noted to stop over natural swimming pools too during winter.

Maintaining a chlorinated pool increases the risk of endangering neighboring plants and animals. This can severely upset the balance of our eco system and lead to more serious issues that contribute to global warming. Resolving to choose natural swimming pools over the chlorinated ones would enhance the existing ecosystem of your home. A healthy ecosystem can help minimize air and water pollution that reduces our carbon footprint. After all, this is the only world we got and we are all responsible in taking care of it.

Reference:

http://en.wikipedia.org/

http://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/cl.htm

http://www.epa.gov/chemfact/f_chlori.txt

http://www.mcspotlight.org/media/reports/wenchlorine.html

http://www.allaboutlawns.com/lawn-maintenance-care/fertilizing/does-pool-chlorine-damage-lawns.php

If you are planning to put in a natural swimming pool, it’s best to get an expert.  Natural pools are recent innovations; hence a lot can go wrong if it is not done properly by a professional. However, don’t let them have all the fun! Collaborating on a pool design can be exciting with the various design possibilities out there.  It also wouldn’t hurt to know the basics so you can check the contractor’s work.

The natural swimming pool consists of two areas, the swimming area and the regeneration area.  The swimming area is similar to the conventional swimming pool intended for swimming while the regeneration area houses the biological filters that cleans the water.

Ideally, they should occupy the same amount of area to be able to achieve optimal filtration. However, with the recent advancements in natural swimming pools, there is no minimum depth required for the swim area and the space allocation for the regeneration area is reduced to a minimum.  Nevertheless, the swimming area should be detached from the regeneration zone. The biological filters can be placed adjacent to the pool area or even at a remote location depending on the layout.

The filtration process utilizes gravity to get the water flowing from the swim area to the various distribution channels initiating the biological process.  Hydroponically planted vegetation sustains itself by removing any contaminants and bacteria, which serves as its primary source of nutrients. These include a wide variety of emergent, submerged and floating plants like cattail, purple loosestrife, blueflag or water lilies, which will be carefully positioned for optimal filtration process.

Most contractors would say the hardest part in designing a natural swimming pool is getting the precise water circulation so the water remains crystal clear. However, you’d be interested to know that during the first few days after installing, water discoloration should be expected due to algae growth. No cause for alarm since it doesn’t pose any harm and should settle in nicely soon enough.

The range of design for the swim area is diverse. Materials may also vary from gravel to stone and can even include recycled construction materials.  You can get inspirations from photos on the internet. There is an assorted selection of design from classic contemporary like the infinity pool to incorporating your natural swimming pool with the existing landscape. A natural pool is unconventional in itself hence there is no clear-cut rule on what you can and can’t do.

References:

http://www.thedailygreen.com/green-homes/latest/natural-swimming-pools-460908

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

http://www.motherearthnews.com/Do-It-Yourself/2002-08-01/Natural-Swimming-Pool.aspx

http://fivevalleysnaturalpools.co.uk/

http://www.gardenvisit.com/garden_products/water/natural_swimming_pond

http://www.bbc.co.uk/bloom/actions/naturalswimmingpool.shtml

Everybody is probably familiar with the dizzying smell of chlorine when swimming in a pool.  Not to mention the bleached out designer bathing suit that doesn’t seem to last you more than a year. Are you forgetting the constant red eyes and dry hair that’s always a constant when you take a dip in a chlorinated pool? What about the constant health scares the experts are regularly feeding the public?

With all these side effects that chlorinated pools present, it’s a surprise that natural swimming pool only came to be in the 1980s. Still, it’s always better late than never.

Natural swimming pools, like chlorinated pools, provide an aesthetic value to your home.  Don’t you notice how you always feel that a home is beautiful after you get a glimpse of the pool? A natural pool can match the picturesque scenery that adds in the knockout factor to every home.  It also doesn’t hurt that it increases your home’s property value.

Essentially, swimming is good for your health but swimming in a natural pool can offer genuine health advantages missing in chlorinated pools.  Pools high in chlorine can harm your esophagus, stomach and digestive tract.  It can also aggravate any existing respiratory ailments.  Moreover, natural water is smoother compared to water laden with chemicals and it does not sting or irritate your skin.

The absence of machines in natural swimming pool makes it self-sufficient; hence it will be more economical in the long run.  Machines rust and they break down and sometimes; they need replacements or repairs.  This entails more money to maintain a chlorinated pool.  With a natural swimming pool, once your mini ecosystem finds its equilibrium and stabilized, it would need far less maintenance as it will take care of itself.

The best one of all is that you are helping to preserve Mother Nature for the younger generations. You’ll be providing a viable habitat for various living things, big and small. It’s also less chlorine in our soil, rivers and sewage system and in the air that contributes to the hydrochloric acid in the rainfall and urban smog, which resulted from the destruction of the troposphere.

Natural swimming pool is your answer to having a healthier lifestyle without the expensive price tag that comes with conventional chlorinated pools. It also satisfies your desire to be environment-friendly and you won’t even have to sacrifice the aesthetics just to fit your budget!

Reference:

http://www.naturalswimmingpools.com/

http://www.gartenart-australia.com/

http://www.iwebnet.com/terravita-gardens/english/naturalpool.htm

A cottage is usually a small cozy home in a rural place and in some countries; it is used to refer to a vacation or summer home. You’re probably wondering if those still exist beyond the 19^th century when the nobilities have their country cottages where they retreat to frequently to avoid the circus of the King’s court.

People often run to their country cottages to get away from the stress and hustle of the city. It would be nice to have a little place where you can have a home away from home.  Unfortunately, not everyone can afford expensive properties even in the countryside. So what’s your next best option?

You need to know something first. What is the appeal of a country cottage to you? Is it that vast, lush green backdrop of the countryside? It could be that you find the solitude welcoming. It might be because you find that being close to Mother Nature relaxes you.  Whichever one it is, a natural swimming pool can be that and a whole lot more.

If you haven’t considered constructing your own natural swimming pool in your backyard, you might want to start looking into it. Unlike your conventional swimming pool, the natural swimming pool harmonizes with your surroundings.  It enhances the aesthetics of your home and has the potential to be your perennial cottage in your very own backyard. Skeptics might wonder how a swimming pool can achieve all that.

The natural swimming pool utilizes biological filters composed of various plants that are floating, emerged or submerged in your natural pool. These plants also add a certain visual flair to your backyard. You can get yourself lost in the moment and maybe for just one minute, you’re actually convinced that you are in a country cottage. It’s definitely different from the cold concrete walls of a conventional swimming pool.

Since the natural swimming pool houses a lot of living creatures, your backyard plays hosts to a variety of flowers, dragon flies, salamanders, snails, frogs, crabs and even turtles.  You can’t get any closer to Mother Nature than that!

With these beautiful miracles around you, you can easily get lost in the moment. Soon, you’ll realize that the bright lights of the city and the loud roars of traffic dies as you immerse and absorb into your surroundings. Before you realize it, you’ll find yourself relaxed and calm; and ready to take on another day!

Reference:

http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/an-englishmans-home-is-his-castle.html

Pools are definitely nice to have around for a number of reasons.  Aside from its aesthetic function, pools can provide a healthy lifestyle for you and your family.  It also presents you with a great avenue to bond with family and friends.

Up until recently, we are only familiar with the chlorinated pool. This type of pool utilizes chemical disinfectants like chlorine and bromine to prevent the growth of bacteria and other viruses. Chlorine has been proven to be effective in eliminating harmful microbes in swimming pools. However, studies have shown that chlorinated pools may cause adverse health effects such as heightened risks to respiratory diseases and certain cancers; therefore more and more people are seeking safer alternatives.

Chlorine is a highly reactive gas that can easily disperse into the earth’s atmosphere. However, a sudden release of chlorine into the pool can pose immediate dangers to the swimmers. It can cause injury to the individual’s esophagus, stomach and digestive tract. Moreover, people who have existing respiratory diseases have an increased likelihood of developing reactive airways dysfunction syndrome or RADS.

A chlorinated pool typically releases three times its volume capacity into the sewer system annually. This is not only expensive but also harmful to the ecological system. Moreover, chlorine contributes to the hydrochloric acid in rainfalls and also to the destruction of the troposphere that resulted in the prevalence of urban smog.

Natural pools are one such alternative that people have been turning to. Dl Werner Gamerith made the first natural swimming pool in his private garden in Austria in the early 1980s. This was locally known as Schwimmteich however, it wasn’t made public until 1990 in an effort to present people with a healthier, chemical-free substitute.

Natural pools are cleaned through the motion of water moving past biological filters and plants fixed hydroponically.  Hydroponics is a manner of growing plants without soil and utilizing only mineral solution. The biological filtering process virtually eradicates the problems you normally encounter in chlorinated pools. Problems such as bleached bathing suits, dry skin and hair and red eyes are rendered non-existent.

Natural pools are not only chemical-free but they use less water than chlorinated pools.  They also promote a healthy ecological system by serving as a habitat for all sorts of living things. Over time, natural pools can save you money on maintenance costs for various chemicals and replacements for artificial filters.

Natural may not always be healthy or good for us but preserving Mother Nature for the future generation is always appreciated and the right thing to do.

References:

http://news.discovery.com/human/chlorinated-pools-swimming-cancer.html

http://www.livestrong.com/article/135829-the-effects-pool-chlorine-environment/

http://en.wikipedia.org

Environmental awareness is not something new and throughout history, some degree of environmental awareness is being thought of and implemented.  For example, increased consumption of fossil fuels brought on awareness to air pollution. The industrialization of countries shifted the focus to water pollution which gave the environmentalist more things to champion.

In recent years, environmental awareness has shifted to global warming and focused on reducing individual carbon footprint. Global warming refers to the increasing temperature of our atmosphere.  This is a direct result of air pollution and deforestation.

Chlorine is a chemical primarily used for disinfecting. It primarily affects the environment through the air and water. Surprisingly, chlorine is naturally occurring in plants and it is an essential nutrient for photosynthesis so it doesn’t pose a big threat when diluted.   However, this is not true for animals.  Studies have shown that chlorine in the air can adversely affect the immune system, heart, respiratory system and the blood of animals, including humans.  It is especially dangerous for organisms living in the soil and water such as fishes.

With that said, natural swimming pools are best at keeping a balanced ecosystem in our environment. Why? Natural swimming pools do not contain any harmful chemicals like chlorine or bromine.  While this does not pose an immediate danger to plants in its diluted form, this can kill any organism it comes in contact with in the soil and water.  This would include bacteria that are essential to the vegetation’s ability to extract nutrients from the soil. Moreover, natural pools won’t pose any danger to aquatic lives in nearby rivers and lakes in case of spills.

Natural pools also serve as a sustainable habitant for various living things like plants, amphibious and aquatic creatures.  Pool owners have seen frogs, salamanders and snails setting up shop in their natural swimming pools.  Migrating birds have been noted to stop over natural swimming pools too during winter.

Maintaining a chlorinated pool increases the risk of endangering neighboring plants and animals. This can severely upset the balance of our eco system and lead to more serious issues that contribute to global warming. Resolving to choose natural swimming pools over the chlorinated ones would enhance the existing ecosystem of your home. A healthy ecosystem can help minimize air and water pollution that reduces our carbon footprint. After all, this is the only world we got and we are all responsible in taking care of it.

Reference:

http://en.wikipedia.org/

http://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/cl.htm

http://www.epa.gov/chemfact/f_chlori.txt

http://www.mcspotlight.org/media/reports/wenchlorine.html

http://www.allaboutlawns.com/lawn-maintenance-care/fertilizing/does-pool-chlorine-damage-lawns.php

If you are planning to put in a natural swimming pool, it’s best to get an expert.  Natural pools are recent innovations; hence a lot can go wrong if it is not done properly by a professional. However, don’t let them have all the fun! Collaborating on a pool design can be exciting with the various design possibilities out there.  It also wouldn’t hurt to know the basics so you can check the contractor’s work.

The natural swimming pool consists of two areas, the swimming area and the regeneration area.  The swimming area is similar to the conventional swimming pool intended for swimming while the regeneration area houses the biological filters that cleans the water.

Ideally, they should occupy the same amount of area to be able to achieve optimal filtration. However, with the recent advancements in natural swimming pools, there is no minimum depth required for the swim area and the space allocation for the regeneration area is reduced to a minimum.  Nevertheless, the swimming area should be detached from the regeneration zone. The biological filters can be placed adjacent to the pool area or even at a remote location depending on the layout.

The filtration process utilizes gravity to get the water flowing from the swim area to the various distribution channels initiating the biological process.  Hydroponically planted vegetation sustains itself by removing any contaminants and bacteria, which serves as its primary source of nutrients. These include a wide variety of emergent, submerged and floating plants like cattail, purple loosestrife, blueflag or water lilies, which will be carefully positioned for optimal filtration process.

Most contractors would say the hardest part in designing a natural swimming pool is getting the precise water circulation so the water remains crystal clear. However, you’d be interested to know that during the first few days after installing, water discoloration should be expected due to algae growth. No cause for alarm since it doesn’t pose any harm and should settle in nicely soon enough.

The range of design for the swim area is diverse. Materials may also vary from gravel to stone and can even include recycled construction materials.  You can get inspirations from photos on the internet. There is an assorted selection of design from classic contemporary like the infinity pool to incorporating your natural swimming pool with the existing landscape. A natural pool is unconventional in itself hence there is no clear-cut rule on what you can and can’t do.

References:

http://www.thedailygreen.com/green-homes/latest/natural-swimming-pools-460908

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page

http://www.motherearthnews.com/Do-It-Yourself/2002-08-01/Natural-Swimming-Pool.aspx

http://fivevalleysnaturalpools.co.uk/

http://www.gardenvisit.com/garden_products/water/natural_swimming_pond

http://www.bbc.co.uk/bloom/actions/naturalswimmingpool.shtml

Everybody is probably familiar with the dizzying smell of chlorine when swimming in a pool.  Not to mention the bleached out designer bathing suit that doesn’t seem to last you more than a year. Are you forgetting the constant red eyes and dry hair that’s always a constant when you take a dip in a chlorinated pool? What about the constant health scares the experts are regularly feeding the public?

With all these side effects that chlorinated pools present, it’s a surprise that natural swimming pool only came to be in the 1980s. Still, it’s always better late than never.

Natural swimming pools, like chlorinated pools, provide an aesthetic value to your home.  Don’t you notice how you always feel that a home is beautiful after you get a glimpse of the pool? A natural pool can match the picturesque scenery that adds in the knockout factor to every home.  It also doesn’t hurt that it increases your home’s property value.

Essentially, swimming is good for your health but swimming in a natural pool can offer genuine health advantages missing in chlorinated pools.  Pools high in chlorine can harm your esophagus, stomach and digestive tract.  It can also aggravate any existing respiratory ailments.  Moreover, natural water is smoother compared to water laden with chemicals and it does not sting or irritate your skin.

The absence of machines in natural swimming pool makes it self-sufficient; hence it will be more economical in the long run.  Machines rust and they break down and sometimes; they need replacements or repairs.  This entails more money to maintain a chlorinated pool.  With a natural swimming pool, once your mini ecosystem finds its equilibrium and stabilized, it would need far less maintenance as it will take care of itself.

The best one of all is that you are helping to preserve Mother Nature for the younger generations. You’ll be providing a viable habitat for various living things, big and small. It’s also less chlorine in our soil, rivers and sewage system and in the air that contributes to the hydrochloric acid in the rainfall and urban smog, which resulted from the destruction of the troposphere.

Natural swimming pool is your answer to having a healthier lifestyle without the expensive price tag that comes with conventional chlorinated pools. It also satisfies your desire to be environment-friendly and you won’t even have to sacrifice the aesthetics just to fit your budget!

Reference:

http://www.naturalswimmingpools.com/

http://www.gartenart-australia.com/

http://www.iwebnet.com/terravita-gardens/english/naturalpool.htm

A cottage is usually a small cozy home in a rural place and in some countries; it is used to refer to a vacation or summer home. You’re probably wondering if those still exist beyond the 19^th century when the nobilities have their country cottages where they retreat to frequently to avoid the circus of the King’s court.

People often run to their country cottages to get away from the stress and hustle of the city. It would be nice to have a little place where you can have a home away from home.  Unfortunately, not everyone can afford expensive properties even in the countryside. So what’s your next best option?

You need to know something first. What is the appeal of a country cottage to you? Is it that vast, lush green backdrop of the countryside? It could be that you find the solitude welcoming. It might be because you find that being close to Mother Nature relaxes you.  Whichever one it is, a natural swimming pool can be that and a whole lot more.

If you haven’t considered constructing your own natural swimming pool in your backyard, you might want to start looking into it. Unlike your conventional swimming pool, the natural swimming pool harmonizes with your surroundings.  It enhances the aesthetics of your home and has the potential to be your perennial cottage in your very own backyard. Skeptics might wonder how a swimming pool can achieve all that.

The natural swimming pool utilizes biological filters composed of various plants that are floating, emerged or submerged in your natural pool. These plants also add a certain visual flair to your backyard. You can get yourself lost in the moment and maybe for just one minute, you’re actually convinced that you are in a country cottage. It’s definitely different from the cold concrete walls of a conventional swimming pool.

Since the natural swimming pool houses a lot of living creatures, your backyard plays hosts to a variety of flowers, dragon flies, salamanders, snails, frogs, crabs and even turtles.  You can’t get any closer to Mother Nature than that!

With these beautiful miracles around you, you can easily get lost in the moment. Soon, you’ll realize that the bright lights of the city and the loud roars of traffic dies as you immerse and absorb into your surroundings. Before you realize it, you’ll find yourself relaxed and calm; and ready to take on another day!

Reference:

http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/an-englishmans-home-is-his-castle.html