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General Florida advice needed

15 years ago

Hi all,

Looks like a move to FL is coming up and I need some advice on what to expect from the FL pool scene...such as what to watch out for in existing pools, what's typical in FL, as well as any words of wisdom if we should end up having a new pool put in. I hear screened enclosures are a good idea???

Will probably be moving into the panhandle area of FL.

We've had exactly 1 pool experience in TX...gunite, PebbleSheen, very basic equipment (standard overpowered pump, no autofill, no autoleveler, no automation), although we do have a salt system.

What should I expect in FL? What do I NEED in FL? Waiting for those words of wisdom.....

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Comments (6)

poolguynj
15 years ago
Watch out for alligators, bugs, and people that shouldn't be driving anymore.
kgolby
15 years ago
From my perspective living in NE FL and originally from Dallas you see some similiarities with pools. Pebble finish, shotcrete, spas, pavers, water features are very popular. Depending on if you have a house that will have a bug problem you may have to have a screen enclosure. When I first moved to FL I couldn't stand the screen rooms but if you have a lot of mosquitos, no-seeums, etc... than a screen room is a necessity. If you're building a pool and need a screen room expect an additional $12K+ added to the cost of it. You don't see alot of flagstone used as coping. I'm putting it on my pool but it's rare here in FL. Most everyone I know has a SWG. The costs are different throughout the state and I think the pools are more expensive in FL compared to TX. It seems like you get a lot bigger pool for less money in TX. Hope this helps with your concerns.
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hargyle
15 years ago
I'm in SW FL, and finished a small pool build in 12/2007. I will be glad to share a few thoughts:
Best thing I've done in home improvement! I really enjoy my back yard space where before I considered bug and dirt land. The screening is MOST important, especially if you plan to swim in the evening or early morning. Also it keeps your pool cleaner and free of debris.
Love my SWG - I can adjust it to keep up with the Cl burn off due to heat and boy do we get high heat and humidity!
Do'nt be surprised at how fast porous surfaces can develop mold. I pressure wash the brick surrounding the pool and patio at least 2-3 x a year.
Can't imagine living here without a pool anymore!
sandradee
Original Author
15 years ago
Thanks for the replies.

poolguynj..."people that shouldn't be driving anymore." I've heard Floridians have tried sending them back whence they came, but it hasn't worked.

kgolby..."I think the pools are more expensive in FL compared to TX." If it means there's a contractors' board and/or licensure requirements, I'm all for it and will semi-gladly pay a higher price.

hargyle..."Don't be surprised at how fast porous surfaces can develop mold." Ah-h-h, I hadn't considered that but it makes perfect sense. It's been a long time since I've lived in an area where humidity is a concern, so I'll have to look at things with that in mind. Right now I'm in a high heat, low humidity, and high wind place, so mold and mildew really don't stand a chance. I see a pressure washer purchase in our future.
hargyle
15 years ago
Almost forgot: even in Naples (about as far as you can go before Key West) I still use my pool heater in winter, to keep the pool in at least the lo-to-mid 80's water temp when I want to swim. In general, I've been told solar will only bring you 5 deg above Gulf temp, so I 'fess up to a non-enviro friendly lifestyle. Panhandle will be significantly cooler but, I do love my heater too!
donnawb
15 years ago
I haven't seem pool enclosures up in the panhandle. It gets more the the 4 seasons and that may be the reason.

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