Six Deadly Pool Purchasing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
December 24, 2011 | 
Author The six deadly pool purchasing mistakes are frequently made as a result of simply not being informed and knowing what questions to ask. Avoiding these mistakes could save you thousands of dollars and hours of heartache and frustration.
So you want to buy a pool but don’t know where to start? Perhaps knowing the common mistakes people make when purchasing a pool will help you start off on the right foot. Everyday, people get “duped” into buying the wrong pool, the wrong way, with no recourse or protection. These same people wind up being dissatisfied and even angry because their expectations weren’t met.
Throughout my long career in the pool industry, I have met many people who have made serious mistakes when they purchased their pool. Every year it seems as though I hear the same stories over and over. As a result of talking with scores of pool owners and through my own years of experience in the industry, I have concluded that there are six common mistakes that people make when purchasing a pool.
The Solution to Avoiding the
Six Deadly Pool Purchasing Mistakes is. . .
Ask the right questions! It’s simple. If you ask the right questions, you’ll uncover 90 percent of the potential problems that most pool purchasers commonly face. There’s always that 10 percent chance that something will happen that you couldn’t have foreseen; but, for the most part, you’ll be able to avoid almost any surprise.
However, if you’re like most other pool purchasers, you know so little about pools or pool construction that you don’t even know what questions to ask. That is why I wrote this special report just for you. After reading this report, you will be one of those few pool purchasers who “know what they’re talking about.”
The first questions you need to ask yourself when thinking about buying a pool are:
1. Why do I want a pool?
2. What will my family and I use the pool for?
3. Who is going to maintain the pool?
Why are these questions so important? Before you can decide “what” type of pool you want, you need to understand “why” you want a pool. Is it for family recreation, entertaining guests, physical therapy, exercise, personal recreation or just to “keep up with the Jones’?”
Knowing the answer to these questions will help you avoid the first deadly pool purchasing mistake, which is. . .
Mistake #1:
Not Designing Your Pool for its Intended Purpose
You might have heard the phrase, “Form follows function.” To know what type of pool you want, you need to know what you’ll be using it for. The type of pool you’ll select should depend on what you’ll be using it for.
More often than not, people considering the purchase of a pool have a specific purpose in mind. It is important to write this down and have it ready when you start to talk to pool builders.
For instance, if you are going to use your pool mostly for family entertainment, then you will want to include safety features such as gating or fencing that will control access to the pool. If your primary use is for entertainment, then you may consider mood lighting features with special landscaping features, such as waterfall features in and around the pool. If you want to build a pool for physical therapy or exercise, you might include a longer shallow area for swimming or perhaps built in spa jets in the seat, pull up bars, or even a smaller pool with swim jets.
The Myth of the Large Pool
An interesting phenomenon frequently happens when the majority of first-time pool buyers desire a large pool with a deep end and a diving board. After about a year of pool use, new owners discover that the deep end rarely gets used and the diving board becomes more of a safety hazard. Most of the games that are pla
yed by the kids are done in the shallow end and that’s where the adults spend 95 percent of their time. Because they decided to build a large pool with a deep end, only 35 percent of the pool gets utilized, resulting in unnecessary expense and low usage. It’s also important to consult with your insurance agent regarding increased premiums with diving boards.
Fencing is always an important element of your pool, not only for child safety but to provide a certain level of privacy. You may consider a retaining wall if your yard is on a slope so that you can step down to the pool, providing you more privacy. Many pool builders will try to talk you into elevating the level of your pool if your yard has a slope. Simply because there’s less dirt to remove, builders can cut trucking expenses. This can leave you with an inground pool that has an above ground look.
You should also have an understanding or vision of what you want your entire backyard to look like, not just your pool. Your pool should compliment your existing backyard and integrate with your intended landscaping goals, both now and in the future.
Here are some other points to consider when designing your pool:
1. Access – Ensure there is easy access to your pool from your house, restroom or entertainment area. You might want to consider how patios, decks or walkways are positioned to provide a safe and simple entrance and exit between your home and your pool.
2. Lines and Cables – Before settling on a location, you need to ensure that there are no electrical or telephone wires, sewer or septic lines or buried pipes.
3. Drainage – Water needs to drain away from the pool to avoid standing water or dirt and mud getting into the pool. This is especially important if you’re in a location that has a history of flooding.
4. Add-Ons – If you plan to install a diving board, spa, slide or waterfall, make sure that you plan for adequate deck space for each add-on.
5. Sheds – A common method of protecting equipment is to build an equipment shed close to the pool.
6. Sun vs Shade – The sun can help to keep your pool water warm; however, placing your pool under trees can result in a lot of extra maintenance.
7. Covenants – Find out if there are any subdivision covenants regarding the construction of pools.
To obtain a building permit, it is generally required to get a survey or plot plan of your entire property. In fact, you should already have one from when you bought your home. The survey will help you to decide where to locate your pool and any other accessories.
Make sure you schedule an initial on-site consultation so that your pools primary functions and activities are reflected in the design. Furthermore, an on-site consultation should urge you to consider the overall vision of what you want your backyard.
Mistake #2
Choosing the Wrong Pool “Container”
There are three basic types of in-ground pools: concrete/gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl liner.
No matter what type of pool you choose, you will be required to perform a certain amount of maintenance. However, each type of pool provides its own maintenance challenges. It’s important to understand these challenges by pool type before you make your selection.
Concrete/Gunite Pools
Concrete and gunite (a type of reinforced concrete) are the most common in-ground pool types because they have been on the market longer than the new, more efficient types of pools.
Concrete and gunite are sprayed over a framework of steel rods and wire mesh, then coated with plaster to give the pool a smooth, printable surface. Today, concrete and gunite pools are most commonly used for commercial and public swimming pools.
The nice thing about concrete and gunite pools is that you can virtually build them in any shape or form that you wish. Unfortunately, it is the most expensive of the three types of pools and it takes a long time to build.
Furthermore, concrete and gunite is porous, therefore providing small areas for algae and bacteria to grow. In addition, it can easily crack and chip with the change of the temperature and weather conditions, providing even more areas for algae and bacteria to grow. This is why concrete and gunite pools require the most maintenance of the three types of pools, costing $100 or more a month to maintain. It is also rough on the kids feet, and because kids will stay in the pool for extended lenght’s of time makes this extremely damaging to the skin.
Concrete and gunite pools require periodic annual or semi annual pool draining for cleaning purposes. When the pool is drained, the cracks in the concrete and gunite need to be repaired and the pool siding acid-washed and perhaps re plastered, if necessary. Acid washing is necessary every one to three years, depending on water condition. Acid washing does remove a layer of plaster or mar cite. Usually, after the second acid wash you can expect to re plaster the pool.
Vinyl Liner Pools
Vinyl liner pools use a high-density vinyl lining, offering a cosmetic textured pool surface. The lining is “seamed” together throughout the sides of the pool. Polymer or steel walls are bolted and fastened together on concrete flooring. The vinyl liner is spread over the floor and paneled walls and connected to the top of the walls by a vinyl rib at the outside edge of the liner.
The upfront cost of vinyl lined pools can be inexpensive when compared with concrete and gunite pools and take much less time to install. However, the maintenance on vinyl lined pools is high because the liner can be easily scratched or cut, especially if there will be toys or hard objects in the pool (even mechanical pool cleaners!). To repair a vinyl lined pool, you’ll need to replace the entire lining, which can cost from $1,500 to $3,900 or more depending on the time of the season for replacement.
Also, algae and bacteria tend to nest in the porous texture of the fabric and seams of the vinyl, requiring high amounts of chlorine to keep the pool clean. It’s kind of like a shower curtain that is exposed to moisture and heat on a consistent basis.
Severe problems can arise when algae starts to grow under a vinyl liner because it can start to eat the liner from the underside and is very difficult to treat. You can expect to pay up to $100 or more a month to maintain a vinyl liner pool.
In addition, heating costs will generally be higher, especially on steel wall construction. The only thing between the ground temperature of 57 degrees and the pool water is steel and vinyl. A polymer or plastic wall does reduce the cost of heating somewhat; but, it also adds considerable cost to the construction of the pool ($1,500 to $2,500 in some cases).
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are made out of a seamless one-piece, pre-formed fiberglass container that is set in the ground and can be installed in less than five days. The fiberglass itself has a smooth, non-porous gel coat surface.
Although fiberglass pools have a wide range of sizes and shapes, and can be moved if you choose, you are restricted to those sizes and shapes that are offered, unlike a concrete or gunite pool. You’ll rarely find a fiberglass pool over sixteen feet in width because the come from the factory ready to install in one piece.
Fiberglass pools are appealing because they require much less maintenance than either of the other pool types. Fiberglass will not rip, tear, crack, chip or leak, providing a longer-lasting surface. Therefore, monthly maintenance costs are minimal. The durability of fiberglass is especially important if you live in a cold weather climate, or unstable soil, in which surface materials contract and expand. This is why concrete and gunite pools crack and chip.
Because a fiberglass is non-porous, algae and bacteria cannot stick to the surface. This reduces the amount of chlorine necessary to keep the pool clean to about one-fourth of the amount that other pools use, which can add up to large cost savings over time.
Fiberglass pools never require draining for cleaning, which is a huge chore. In addition, to clean the fiberglass surface, all you need to do is vacuum the bottom of the pool, which takes only 10-15 minutes a week. At first you might think that concrete/gunite pools are the most stable; however, fiberglass pools can flex about two feet without sustaining any damage and can safely withstand more external pressure than concrete/gunite pools.
However, there are huge distinctions between different fiberglass pools. (They are not all created equal.) Vinyl Ester resin is a must! This material is a bonding agent that helps hold the pool together. Vinyl Ester also prevents cobalting, which is a black or purple stain that forms from the outside in. It is a chemical reaction within the fiberglass itself. The stain can usually be removed but will continue to resurface. Make sure you see it in writing that the pool has Vinyl Ester. If it’s not advertised in print, chances are it doesn’t have it.
It’s also important to have some sort of vapor barrier in the fiberglass. Even though the gel coat or finish is smooth and non-porous, the back of the pool is without a vapor barrier. Fiberglass is a cloth that will absorb moisture from the ground. Moisture or even ground water will leach through the fiberglass causing blistering on the gel coat that is not usually covered by warranty.
You also want to make certain the pool is constructed with hand laid fiberglass as opposed to chopped glass. Hand laid fiberglass is much stronger and is built with full sheets of fiberglass cloth. Chopped glass fiberglass is a pudding-like substance with shreds of fiberglass usually sprayed or rolled on. Fortunately, because fiberglass pools are pre-built, you can see the pool prior to installation. Check out the finish beforehand. If it doesn’t look good out of the ground it won’t look good in the ground. Remember, water magnifies any flaws.
The technology in this industry is changing and evolving almost monthly, with recent introductions like the infusion of Carbon Fiber which adds extreme strength, and some pretty nice looking colors, this makes this worth a closer look than in the past.
Mistake #3
Choosing the Wrong Developer
The worst mistake that a person buying a pool can do is choose the wrong developer to build the pool. There are many “fly-by-night” pool developers that use temporary workers to install pools,. Other developers employ installers (or subcontractors) that have virtually no experience with pool installation.
Pool developers consistently experience a high turnover with their staff so it’s a constant struggle to keep good, experienced people who have installed a lot of pools. There are also a lot of developers who will sell you a pool with no regard for how it will be integrated with your landscape and lifestyle.
Make sure the developer has a firm brick and mortar location and is not working out of his garage. Also, do not purchase a pool from the Internet. Take time to visit the location.
After narrowing it down to the top two or three builders, invest in the time to visit their location to look at their products and services. See how their staff treats you. (Remember, people who feel good about themselves produce good results).
This is the biggest investment of your life next to your home. Invest your time. Take the family on a fun day out to look at pools and builders. Stop for lunch. Slow down, take your time. Feel comfortable and investigate.
The following are several questions you can ask potential pool developers when you request a proposal or bid to build your pool.
1. Do you offer the type of pool container that I want (fiberglass, concrete/gunite, vinyl liner) and how much experience do you have with installing that type of pool?
Most pool builders specialize in one of the three types of pools. A builder that is an expert in installing concrete pools may not necessarily be an expert in installing fiberglass pools. Find out how many of the same type of pools the builder has installed. If you are having accessories such as a deck, spa or landscaping done with the same builder, make sure that they have done that type of work in the past with other clients.
2. What is the average experience of your installation staff or do you subcontract out the construction? Do you hire only licensed and bonded sub-contractors?
It isn’t uncommon to find a pool builder that uses subcontractors for the entire installation process. In this case, you need to consider the experience level of the subcontractors. A pool builder is only as good as the people doing the installation work. Preferably the builder will have his own staff, resulting in better quality control. However, if a subcontractor is used, make sure that they are licensed and bonded to protect you if things go wrong.
3. Are you certified by the National Spa and Pool Institute? What other trade organizations do you belong to?
The National Spa and Pool Institute (NSPI) is the association that supports the spa and pool industry. The NSPI has a “Certified Builder”course that teaches builders how to build high-quality pools using the latest techniques that meet specifications. Having the certification means that the builder has at least met some standard education requirements to do the job right and it shows the builder’s commitment to quality. This one question can weed out a fly-by-night builder from a reputable builder. If the builder belongs to the Better Business Bureau, a Chamber of Commerce, or even a Rotary Club, it demonstrates that the builder intends to be around for a long while.
4. Do you provide financing for the pool construction project?
Even if you have the money sitting in the bank or you plan to get it from a commercial lender, asking this question may result in some revealing information. If a builder provides financing, it means that they have been around long enough to build credit and a good reputation with the banks. It is advantageous to have options for financing the construction of your pool. Another benefit of financing your pool is that in-ground pool construction is considered a home improvement and the interest payment on your loan is tax deductible.
5. Can I speak with several of your past customers?
This is the killer question. The proof is in the pudding and if you can’t speak to a previous customer, it probably means that they don’t have one or that they are disgruntled. Run from a builder that can’t provide you with testimonials from prior satisfied customers.
The real test is talking to those customers yourself. Ask the builder if you can pick one or two from a list of 10 previous customers. This will ensure that you’ll be choosing a non-biased customer. Ask the customer, “I know that the builder does great work but all jobs have at least one or two things that didn’t go as planned. Can you tell me what were some things that didn’t meet your expectations?” This question will get the customer off the fence.
6. To what extent is the owner involved in the daily operations of the business?
If the owner of the business isn’t 100 percent involved in the business, it doesn’t mean that you write them off but you should find out how the business is being managed. Quality usually has a direct correlation to the level of involvement by the owner of the business.
7. Can the builder present a certificate of insurance to prove that they are fully insured?
Ask the builder about any liability and compensation insurance he may carry to protect you in the event of an accident during the construction of the pool. There’s nothing worse than getting into a situation in which things didn’t go as planned and not having recourse for receiving compensation because of damages. Every reputable builder should be fully insured. Period.
If you ask and don’t receive a copy of worker’s compensation and liability insurance, don’t use the builder. You may even go as far as to call the agent listed to verify that their insurance is in force. Finally, remember worker’s compensation protects people. Liability protects property. You need to have both.
Other things you might consider are the builder’s credit rating and you may want to check county records for lawsuits.
8. Does the builder offer in-home design services?
Many good builders will offer in-home design services that will not only save you money but also demonstrate the builder’s experience and expertise.
9. If there is damage to my yard or landscaping, will you repair it?
It is imperative that you set your expectations up front during the interview process with the builder, especially when it comes to damage. Many pool buyers are surprised when they see the amount of damage to their yard that takes place during a pool installation.
However, there is such a thing as excess damage due to negligence on the part of the builder. Make sure you address this right up front and that it gets into your contract. Some pool builders aren’t willing to take on the risk of paying for yard damage.
10. What are the electrical and plumbing requirements and who will perform them?
Your pool builder should know about existing electrical, plumbing, zoning, building and grading requirements. It’s important to test the knowledge of your builder. Even if you don’t know the answers yourself, you’ll have an idea whether they have a good grasp on the requirements.
By the way, never allow a pool builder to force you to take a permit out in your name. It should always be in the builder’s…
11. What type of maintenance training will I receive upon completion of the pool?
Upon completion of pool installation, your pool builder should provide you with training, including: equipment maintenance training; chemical and cleaning training; winterizing training; and safety training. These topics will be crucial to the longevity of your pool.
12. How long will the construction take and when can you start?
Even if a pool builder is good and you feel comfortable with their skills and ability, their schedule needs to sync with your schedule. A good pool builder will most likely be booked, so you may want to start the search process early in the season or reset your expectations as to when the pool can be installed.
Never choose a pool or a builder based strictly on schedule. Make your choice on the quality of both the product and the builder. A high-quality builder will never sacrifice quality for speed. Remember, if you are a first time pool buyer, another couple of months won’t hurt you. Stay focused on quality.
13. What is the cost and how much do you require as a deposit?
Ultimately, your pool needs to fit your budget. You should ask for a proposal only from builders that you feel comfortable with and meet your minimum requirements. Although it varies from builder to builder, 2 percent to 5 percent down is an acceptable amount to ask as a deposit. If a builder asks for an amount greater than 10 percent down, it’s time to end the interview. Also, make sure you examine the down payment schedule and make sure the builder explains it to you.
Good References are Important
Overall, asking this series of questions will help you get a feel for who may be the best choice to build your pool. Remember, good references are important because they are based on past experience rather than a right answer to an interview question. Call local building departments, call the state, and call the Better Business Bureau. A good builder’s reputation will precede them.
Mistake #4
Not Getting a Full Understanding of Your Pool Contract and Warranty
It is certainly a deadly mistake not getting a full understanding of your pool contract and warranty. As Ross Perot once said, “The devil is in the details.” Pool contracts and warranties can be deceptive if they are not read carefully and if you don’t ask enough questions.
Parts of a pool usually included in the warranty are:
1. Structural – Structural integrity of walls, reinforcements and concrete.
2. Equipment – Equipment such as filters, skimmers, pumps and heaters.
3. Plumbing – Materials and workmanship on electrical, gas, piping and pool plumbing.
Generally speaking, most pool buyers get surprised when something goes wrong because they didn’t take the time to understand the details of what is included in the warranty and more importantly, what is NOT included in the warranty. Try to make sure your pump, filter and heater are from the same manufacturer. That way you have one warranty that covers your main equipment. Plus, most pool companies will not stock repair parts from multiple manufacturers. Things like discoloration in fiberglass and vinyl liner pools are usually not covered because the color of the walls have a lot to do with how you’ve maintained the pool and the chemical balance of the pool water. Chipped concrete or gunite are not usually warranted because that’s the nature of concrete when exposed to the elements.
When purchasing a vinyl liner pool, you need to be cautious about what’s included in the warranty for the liner. Is it just the seams or is it the entire liner? Most vinyl liner pool builders stress the warranty on the seam, but the seam never goes bad. What frequently goes bad is the vinyl lining, not the structural walls or the seam.
Who’s Warranting What?
Understand who warranties what. For instance, who warranties the pump and filter? The manufacturer or the dealer? Who do you contact to report problems? Do they have a toll-free number? Who comes out to fix the problem? In some cases, each individual manufacturer will warranty each separate piece of equipment and will have different service providers fixing the problem. There’s rarely a one-stop solution for pool warranties and service.
Read the warranty carefully with the builder and ask questions. Ask what is not warranted and why. After you’ve seen a couple of warranties side by side, the questions will become much easier.
Mistake #5
Focusing on Upfront Cost Rather than Cost of Ownership
Because in-ground pools can cost up to $40,000 and more, most pool buyers are concerned about the upfront price and pay little attention to daily operational costs. Purchasing a pool that requires little maintenance will usually be the cheapest deal in the long run. Pools that don’t require a lot of chemicals, cleaning, resurfacing or replacement parts will cost less over the life of the pool.
Additional Costs
Additional costs of required basic equipment can surprise some pool buyers. Equipment such as filter systems, steps or ladders, and skimmers for surface cleaning are considered essential.
Many pool owners install heating equipment and pool-side decking of concrete or wood. Pool covers are often used to keep water clean and retain heat when the pool is not in use. If used properly, these covers can be a wise energy-saving investment.
Mistake #6
Falling for Slimy Sales Gimmicks
Once you have decided to build a swimming pool, there is a natural excitement and eagerness to have it installed as soon as possible. This is often the point at which unwary buyers can get into hot water because dishonest salespeople and builders will be quick to take advantage of the situation.
Keep in mind that the late spring and early summer months can bring these unscrupulous people into communities where home swimming pools are popular. Attractive advertisements can turn up, offering deals that seem too good to turn down. Here are some warning signs that signal “Buyer Beware!”
1. Salespeople who tell you an advertised pool they offer “on sale” is not worth having and then try to switch you to a more expensive model. This is called “Bait and Switch” and is a tactic that is often used in the retail world.
2. Salespeople who use the ploy of offering a reduced price on the basis your pool will be used as a model.
3. Salespeople who pressure you into signing a contract. Remember: no reputable builder and no authorized representative of a reputable builder will rush you into signing any agreement or contract at any time.
4. Never get talked into taking out the “Building Permit” yourself or in your own name. The contractor should do this. Always make sure that the contract clearly states that the pool builder is required to hire only licensed and bonded “subcontractors.”
5. If the pool builder will not do an on-site initial visit, be alerted to the possibility of a hard sale. Chances are, the builder does not understand or care to understand your requirements.
Conclusion
Purchasing a pool can be a scary experience, especially for those first timers who haven’t been through the process. There are a myriad of items to consider… pool type, maintenance, warranties, contracts, liability, plumbing, landscaping, electricity, drainage, restrictions, accessories, and so on. It’s no wonder many pool buyers make mistakes that end up costing them hundreds, even thousands, of dollars.
With the information in this special report, you will be able to avoid many of the most common mistakes people make when purchasing a pool. It will equip you with the ability and know-how to ask smart questions that will result in helping you find the right pool for you and your family.
Ten Great Free Android Weather Apps
There are hundreds of great free Android weather apps that more than make up for the lack of paid weather apps in the Android market. The fact that there are more free Android weather apps is a great thing for those of us who like to thoroughly inspect an app before choosing to make it part of our permanent collection. This list is quite a diverse one with many different specialties. Here are ten of the best free Android weather apps around.
Weather
This aptly named free Android weather app, developed by Michael Bachman, is one I would recommend to those who just want a plain and simple, easy-to-use app. It’s fast and very reliable; this is an app to try if all you want is a simple forecast and not many other bells and whistles.
iMap Weather
This app provides radar images and forecasts. It can also give you detailed current weather conditions (for local and international locations). If you choose to check out this weather app, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the great visuals!
Moon Phase
A very simple free Android weather app developed by Udell Enterprises, Inc, it obviously shows you the particular phase of the moon for the given data. Although this app lacks some additional add-ons to make it truly spectacular, it does exactly what it promises quite efficiently.
Snowstorm weather widget
This is another very specific free Android weather app. Snowstorm gives you forecasts regarding snowstorms and beyond. If you’re like me and you live in snow country, this is definitely an app I would suggest for when you’re out and about during the snow season.
Radar Now!
If you want an app that will visually display the current weather through radar, Radar Now! Is your best free Android app option. Simple and fast, Radar Now! gives you what you need without any hassle.
AccuWeather.com
This is a GPS-based weather update app and is great for getting worldwide forecasts. As you might have guessed, this app was developed by the same people behind Accuweather.com, so you’ll be sure the information you get is accurate and reliable and that this app will only get better!
Weather Widget – Free
Although there is a paid version of this free Android weather app, this one remains to be quite adequate in giving quick and reliable weather updates. This is one of the weather apps that will do just about anything for you. Trust me, this app would be a great addition to your Android phone. To enhance this app, get the Weather Widget Forecast Addon, another free app that does just what it says. If you try the Weather Widget and like it, download the free Forecast Addon and you’ll have a winning combination!
WeatherBug
Another great free Android weather app that offers local weather updates as well as just about anything else you’d want to know about general weather. The updates are accurate and the add-ons (including maps and videos) are amazing. This is one of the very few free Android apps that are up there in a league of their own.
The Weather Channel
Easily the best free Android weather app available in the Android Market; it’s also the most popular Android app in the weather category. The official Weather Channel app provides weather updates straight from one of the most respected weather sources. You can set a default location to get regular updates without doing anything else. The last thing I’ll say about this app: you should download this app for your Android phone.
Children’s Ride on Toys Now and Then
Ride on toys gained popularity in the 1950′s and 1960′s and became favorites for many children growing up during this time. Classic riding toys were made of wood or metal, many times from very sturdy materials such as steel. The ride on toys of this era resembled the latest automobiles and airplanes, and there were always wagons and tricycles.
The original ride on toys were made of much more durable materials than the ride on toys of today, although some of the materials such as steel also meant that the toys were not as safe as the ones made today. Sometimes classic ride on toys also contained lead paint, which was not identified as a hazard until years later. Even though antiques ride on toys didn’t have all the safety features of the ones today, they can still make great presents with a new finish.
Many craftsmen specialize in repairing and restoring antique ride on toys and restore them so that they are safe for use. If you are a handy person, you can also find antique toys at auctions, yard sales, and vintage shops that you can restore yourself. Some crafters make new ride on toys that resemble older models and are made of similar high quality materials such as wood. This is a good way to get a classic ride on toy that you know is safe and durable. Artisans will sell their classic riding toys at craft shows, vintage toy shops, and online. If you want your child or grandchild to experience the fun of a classic riding toy, you can either get them a restored antique or a new ride on toy that resembles the ones from your childhood.
Whether you buy a restored antique ride on toy or a newly manufactured one, make sure that they meet current safety requirements. Toys should not contain lead paint, which is usually not a problem for toys that are newly manufactured or for antiques that have been refurbished. Some of the most durable materials used in antique ride on toys such as steel, are not the safest materials and have been replaced by lightweight yet durable metals. Most modern ride on toys and refurbished classic toys have rubber pedals for a non slip finish as well as non slip rubber tires. Padded seats and non toxic paints are also safety features of new and refurbished ride on toys.
Ride on toys whether they are antiques or modern replicas make great gifts for young children. Most children love ride on toys and will have hours of fun riding, pretending, and letting their imaginations soar. There are many different ride on toy designs, from cars and trucks to airplanes and even boats. Some ride on toys have pedals and others are just scooted along by the child’s feet. You should consider the age and ability of the child you are buying for when you decide which type on ride on toy is right for them. Classic ride on toys are gifts that will be loved by children and appreciated by parents.
Tow Truck Wheel Lift
A tow truck is a special emergency vehicle designed to tow or pull disabled vehicles out of the roadway to a safer location. It is also commonly used to confiscate illegally parked vehicles. Most tow trucks are based on a medium truck or heavy-duty pickup chassis.
There are three main types of tow trucks in use today: hook and chain, axle cradling, and flatbed. The hook and chain is the oldest type of tow truck; it uses chains around the towed vehicle. The axle cradling type features a large metal yoke that is fitted under the front wheels; a hydraulic hoist then lifts the front end of the vehicle so it can be towed. The flatbed type of tow truck has a bed at the back of the truck that can be hydraulically moved to ground level. This then allows the vehicle to be placed onto the bed either through a winch or through the towed vehicle’s own power.
Most of the time, the tow truck’s equipment is adequate enough for various situations. However, there are accessories and add-ons that can augment the capabilities of a tow truck and allow it to do more. Tow truck wheel lifts are accessories that can be installed in a tow truck to improve its versatility and functionality. Wheel lifts raise towed vehicles by attaching a winch cable to a lifting ring through a snatch block on the main boom. These wheel lifts can carry a heavy load capacity, although there are some wheel lifts that can be installed in light-duty pickup trucks.
If you are planning to purchase wheel lifts for tow trucks, you can find various types available from different manufacturers. Choose the wheel lift that is guaranteed to be strong and durable, even in heavy-duty situations. Inquire about the different kinds of wheel lifts available in the market. For more information, you can also research tow truck wheel lifts online, where there are a number of manufacturers available.
Mini Truck Utility
Mini trucks are also called kei trucks from the Japanese word, kei, which stands for “light weight.” These types of vehicles are lesser in scale, weight, cost, & fuel consumption. These trucks have various options such as two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, automatic transmission, forced induction engines, and many more. They are growing in popularity in the United States, in Canada, and in a lot of other countries.
These 4 x 4 mini trucks can operate off the road and in all terrains as well. They are utility vehicles that can be used for any purpose. In the Asian nation of Japan, these kei trucks strictly undergo emission standards of the Environmental Protection Agency and inspections mandated by their government. And as the vehicle increases in age, the cost of these inspections increase as well, thus, the exporting scheme was born.
These trucks have options such as liquid cooled engines; two, three, four cylinder gasoline engines; from 550 cc to 660 cc engines; or 40 miles per gallon engines. There’s a feature with axle lock or differential lock. The tires are twelve inches in diameter. The dimensions are 10 ft in length, 4 ft in width, and 5 ft in height. They tip the scales at about 1800 pounds. The instrumentations are complete with oil, electric, and temperature gauges. They have defrosting or heating windshield & rear windows, wipers, and headlights, and capable of air-conditioning. The 4 ft x 6 ft rear beds can be customized with flat beds, rail beds, passenger cabs, van type, or hydraulic dumps. Some states require the installation of speed governors to limit the speed to 25 to 30 mph otherwise top speed should reach 60 mph. Some states overrule their being street legal.
These mini trucks can be used as utility vehicles in airports; trams in amusement parks; engine transport in auto garages; carrying sloops in boat yards; passenger transport in complexes; material delivery in constructions; all-around transport in farming; cargo transport in piers; equipment transport in fishing; tourist trams in garden parks; drug & equipment delivery in hospitals; food delivery in resort hotels; game mover in hunting; ore transport in industrial mines; junk transport in auto yards; sapling transport in landscaping; consumer tram in malls; tools & equipment hauler in manufacturing yards; exhibit transporter in museums; pit stop service in race tracks; student trams in schools & universities; athlete trams in sports centers; parcel delivery in train stations; storage movement in warehouses, etc.
Western Cowboy Hats
Everyone likes the look of western cowboy hats, they have become very popular over the years, and it is no longer just cowboys that wear them. You can wear western hats with several different outfits and you will look great. They can be worn as a casual look and you will look and feel great when wearing one. The original design of the cowboy hat was very simple and although they have got slightly more decorative over the years the simplicity is still as popular.
Western hats are high crowned very wide brimmed hats which traditionally were worn by cowboys. The wide brim protected the cowboys face from the rain, wind and sun and would allow them to carry on their work as normal. Although they were designed for working cowboys western hats can now be found all over the world, are worn by all different genders, ages, and race. Stetson the great hat maker made the original cowboy hat in 1865.
Stetson made hats in many different styles and decided to make a high crowned fat brimmed hat for the cowboys. They were very plain in color and design and were very lightweight and comfortable to wear. Although he only made one style of this type of western cowboy hats, you could upgrade the hat and pay more for a better quality material. Beaver skin was used in the most expensive western hats and the rich only bought these. Over the years there have been several different accessorize and buckles added to the cowboy hats.
The design of the hat meant that these bows and add ons were not placed on the right hand side of the hat due to the fact the majority of people are right handed. Although over the years other manufacturers have considered different designs of the western cowboy hats the original design is still very popular. The rim does tend to be slightly smaller now as the need to protect the wearer from the weather is not such a necessity. You can find the western hats in several different materials these days and all of them suit a time and place to be worn.
Leather western cowboy hats are still the most popular of all of the designs and these are sold the most, felt and suede hats are also very popular. Straw western hats are found easily and can be worn on hot summer days but they bend and break very easily. You can also get special designer western hats made from wool, which are unique but not that practical. You can get the traditional style in several different colors to match whatever outfit you are wearing.
Wearing western cowboy hats can give you confidence and make you and your outfits stand out from other people. Today you can find western cowboy hats everywhere and they are not just in cowboy shops you will find them in high street stores as more people want to wear them. You need to consider how much you are going to wear the western hats before you spend a lot of money on it as you can get cheaper alternatives than leather.
How to Pack For a Cruise – A Different Approach!
There are countless ways that you could pack for your special cruise vacation. One that’s favored by men is: Wait until the last minute, throw some things together, and anything you forget you either don’t need or you can buy. (I personally subscribe to this thinking!) However, if you truly want a system for getting things together for your cruise, try this idea for how to pack for a cruise.
First of all, break your cruise vacation into parts or activities to make planning your packing easier. An example for a Caribbean cruise may be:
1. Travel to the cruise port.
2. Embarkation day.
3. Morning exercise
4. Afternoon sunbathing and pool
5. Evening dining and entertainment
6. Shore excursions
7. Formal night
8. Disembarkation and travel home
Let’s break these down into the items required for packing for your cruise
1. How to pack for your travel to the cruise port
Whether you are driving or flying to the cruise port, there are a few items you should have. First and foremost – keep all medications with you as carry-ons. Even if you will not require them until the next day, it’s important that you have them with you. Remember, “Stuff Happens”. Luggage has been known to go astray and it could be days before you see it again. With long waits at the airport, you may wish to have some reading materials or other activities to help the time pass. Make sure that you identify what you can and can’t carry on to an airplane. No nail files or other sharp objects etc. These can be placed in your checked luggage. Make sure that you have your transfer voucher from the airport to the ship with you as well so you won’t be scrambling to find them at the last minute. Also have your cruise tickets readily available. You wouldn’t want to have to tear apart your luggage in the cruise terminal to find your tickets.
2. How to pack for Embarkation
Again, all meds should be carried on – not in checked luggage. Make sure that you have a change of clothes with you as carry-ons. This may seem strange. Cruise passengers may not receive their luggage until late in the day of embarkation. Your checked luggage is delivered right to your stateroom. With as many as three thousand passengers all having one or two bags, that’s a lot of luggage to deliver! ( On one cruise, we went on board around 1:00 and didn’t receive the last of our luggage until about 7:00 that evening.) So, if you have left a cold climate to arrive at the airport and then directly to the cruise ship, you may want to put on some lighter clothing when you get on board.
3. How to pack for morning exercise
Only you can suggest what you might like here. Perhaps work-out shoes and clothing, weight lifting gloves, etc. The trick here is to make it light. If you are a walker or jogger, you may wish to have some cool clothing for the track on deck. Some cruise ships have athletic activities like basketball, volleyball and golf. Some consideration for these activities is recommended as well.
4. How to pack for the cruise afternoons on board ship
Sunbathing is one of the main activities in the sun on board cruise ships. Ample deck chairs are available on various decks and around the pools. You will want your bathing suits and cover-ups or other tanning attire. Suntan lotion is a must – the last thing you want is a painful sunburn to hamper your fun-in-the-sun cruise! A sun hat is advisable as well. A general requirement for your cruise vacation is a couple of pairs of comfortable shoes. You will do a good deal of walking while on board ship so you won’t want to be breaking in any fancy new shoes here! There are some special activities available on some cruise ships – ice skating, rock climbing etc. Check out your specific cruise ship to see if there are activities that you would like to plan for. For the most part, cruising attire is casual during the day. That means COMFORTABLE! After all, you are on vacation!
5. How to pack for evening dining and entertainment
Evenings on board ship have an atmosphere of casual elegance. Dress casual should be the attire of choice. The main dining rooms on board most cruise ships exude elegance after dark (or at dusk depending on your seating time). Scrumptious culinary fare will tempt you at every seating so add comfortable to the dress casual. You will be thankful for clothing that is not too tight. (You can work off the calories when you get home!) Many cruise ships offer fantastic evening entertainment. Las Vegas-style shows, Broadway-style skits, karaoke, piano bars, discos, and dancing will all add to your cruise ship experience. And of course the Casinos! Excitement on the high seas! Keep these activities all in mind when planning your packing list.
6. How to pack for shore excursions
Shore excursions are sometimes forgotten about when planning your packing list. This could be tragic. Forgetting the camera and missing the once in a lifetime shot of swimming with the dolphins. What about the binoculars if you are going to be sightseeing from high places or along the coast? Good walking shoes are a must here as well because many shore excursions will include some or a lot of walking. Think shopping. What would you need to be wearing if you are going power-shopping for a few hours? Shore time also means beach time. Many excursions offer snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, para-sailing and many other types of water activities. Make sure you plan for these on your packing list.
7. How to pack for Formal Night
I know guys – the dreaded Formal Night! The agony and the ecstasy. Agony for men and ecstasy for women! Formal nights on the cruise ship truly are elegant. Ladies in long flowing gowns and men in their best tuxedos. All right, not all are dressed-to-the-nines like that. However, jackets and ties for men are the norm. Dresses and pantsuits are common for the ladies. Ladies, keep in mind that you are on a moving ship so be careful about high and spike heels. If you choose casual dining on formal nights, there are casual dining alternates for you.
8. How to pack for disembarkation and travel home
Your cruise is over and you have been called to disembark the ship. Some will be ready to leave and get to work for a rest while others will be reluctant to leave. Again, it’s always wise to keep your medications with you. And don’t forget to put all sharp items is checked luggage so there is no hassle at the airport. Short of that, it’s a matter of throwing everything into the bags and zipping them up.
That’s it for another fabulous cruise vacation. And in case you wanted to know… I don’t do unpacking tips! There are obviously other ways to plan for your cruise trip packing and there are numerous other items that you may wish to have with you. The key is to have a plan and work through that plan step by step. Seem like a lot of work? Not at all! Planning for your cruise vacation is as exciting and pleasurable (almost) as the cruise itself. If nothing else, planning and packing for a cruise gets you definitely in the mood!
If you’d like more information and tips on packing for a cruise, cruise wear and cruises, check out our Cruise Articles map. If you’re looking for a special cruise deal, check out the merchant links on our Discount Cruises main pages. Your perfect cruise vacation may be more affordable than you think! Research your special cruise, check out the special cruise pricing available here, and book your cruise on-line. Then all that’s left to do is to get excited!
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Magnanni Shoes – Italian Or Spanish Shoes?
Magnanni shoes have become a household name among discerning men who know what to look for in a fine pair of handmade shoes. It’s the exquisite leathers, the impeccable attention to detail, and the marriage of old style shoemaking and modern technology that have made Magnanni a global icon in the men’s shoe business.
And would you expect anything less from an Italian shoemaker? The country has dominated the designer shoe manufacturing market for years, with royalty and celebrities the world over seeking out the many fine italian shoemakers that have taken their collections global. But wait, these are spanish shoes. Magnanni has put Spain on the map with arguably a top five luxury men’s shoe collection that is often mistaken for an italian shoe. The shoes upon inspection reflect a Spanish flair that is unmistakable, but the country has never been known for making impeccable, globally recognized footwear, and so the mistake is often made. Beautiful Italian shoe, made in Spain.
Times change, and the internet has taken products and brands that were once restricted by national and continental boundaries into the global marketplace. Once Google search for Magnanni shoes will show you just how many retailers are carrying this incredibly successful Spanish shoe line. If you think you are a men’s shoe lover, you haven’t done your due diligence until you’ve tried a Magnanni. Their full collection includes everything you could possibly need, casuals, dress shoes, exotics, slip ons, and boots. Slip on a pair of Magnanni’s and slip into luxury.
The World May Be a Smaller Place But Costs Keep Rising
Go back one hundred years and, to get anywhere fast, you were on the railway to the nearest port to get on a ship. When you think about the rate of progress, it makes you quite proud of human achievements. What used to take weeks in some cases is now hours, sometimes in airplanes that can carry amazing numbers of people. For example, the A380 is allowed to carry 853 passengers in an economy class set-up. So, if you do the math, sharing the cost of the fuel and writing off the cost of the plane, 853 people can travel more cheaply than a hundred or so in a smaller plane. Discounted travel comes in different forms. The other way in which saving are made is to cut out all the “extras”. Some airlines provide a high standard of passenger care. When you arrive in the airport, you are whisked into a special lounge, offered a drink and a rundown. Then it’s on to the plane with food and entertainment provided. This makes the travel a less stressful experience. Go through a budget airport and you see a rather different approach to transport.
Curiously, some airlines have responded to the current recession and drop in passenger numbers by increasing their ticket prices. Indian airlines tried discounting and that did not tempt passengers back into the air so they reasoned that, if people had to fly, they would pay more. If they paid more, the airlines would make a smaller loss. Airlines in other countries are playing a backdoor game with their prices. They advertise a headline price but charge for a lot of extras. What may be added in? Well, let’s take something “simple” like your baggage. Carry one small bag over your shoulder weighing less than 7kg on to the plane and you’re safe. Anything else counts as excess baggage and, when you get to the airport, you’re expected to pay a charge for checking luggage through the handling system, plus a hefty fee for every kilo over your free allowance of 7kg. If you failed to use the online check-in system, there can be a fee for doing it in person at the airport. Then some will add the cost of transport from a central pick-up point to the airport itself – some of these budget airports are a long way from civilization. Some charge for food, a blanket and entertainment.
When you’re looking for discount flights remember the airlines are also looking for you. They want to attract your business so they will try to make the deal look sweet but take your money in others ways. Remember what the price is before the discount kicks in. The Indian airlines have been increasing their prices so, even when a discount flights are offered, this is not as cheap as it looks. There is no right and wrong answer on all of this. You look carefully at all the discount flight offers, identify all the add-ons and extras, and you try to pick the best deal. Waiting until close to your departure date is a good strategy. Prices always fall in the last few days before departure. Just don’t wait until all the seats have been sold.
Radio Flyer Goes Off Road
Radio Flyer Wagons such as the ATW Wagon have been a part of American childhood since the early 1900′s. These strong, sturdy steel wagons have carried generations of tired children and been the center of millions of play groups. Radio Flyer wagons have fostered imagination in the minds of so many children, they are now the number one selling brand of toy wagons in the world.
Each red wagon is made to last. With seamless steel construction and numerous safety features, these toys usually outlast the child and become family treasures. The Radio Flyer company’s commitment to enhancing young minds through innovative play products has driven them to keep their toys up to date, continually changing with the demands of the time.
Near the close of the twentieth century, Radio Flyer improved their signature wagons by steering away from the usual sidewalks and driveways. Powerful air-filled tires allow ATW wagons to go anywhere. Across the mud, over leaves and brush, and wherever the path may lead, ATWs (All-Terrain Wagons) keep up with today’s busy child.
Like all Radio Flyer products, the ATW is engineered to meet the highest of standards in safety specifications. Using Radio Flyer’s exclusive controlled turning radius, the ATW can brave the toughest backyard terrains and never spill a load. Radio Flyer All Terrain Wagons are multifunctional as both toys and utility wagons. The ATW is available in three different styles to meet many purposes.
The Big Red Classic ATW is a monster version of the signature Radio Flyer little red wagon. With fifty percent deeper carrying capacity and extra high steel sides, this ATW provides usability as well as tons of fun. The Big Red Classic ATW is large enough to carry two children and sturdy and rugged enough to go through the backyard with a load of firewood.
Radio Flyer’s second design in their ATW line is the ATW Cargo Wagon. Over three feet long, this wagon is made of fine quality finished wood. It features removable bright red sides for extra versatility, making it the perfect ATW for wide loads of flowers or small shrubbery. The large, comfortable body ensures hours of outdoor adventure.
The ATW Steel & Wood Wagon takes the classic Radio Flyer little red wagon and adds high wooden stake sides and big air-filled all terrain tires for the ultimate in fun and adventure. With the extra-long handle, this ATW will effortlessly pull two with plenty of space for other belongings. It is ideal for nature walks or along the beach.
Radio Flyer ATWs can travel almost anywhere. The line of wagon accessories will guarantee a comfortable ride no matter how bumpy and rough the path may become. Radio Flyer wagon pads are made of soft foam cushioning and feature an easy to clean cover. The pads are available for the sides as well as the bottom of the wagon for complete safety and comfort.
The award winning all terrain wagons from Radio Flyer have taken the classic wagon to new and exciting places. Every ride in a Radio Flyer wagon creates a new adventure. With the ATW, the adventures are endless.