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One of the main tasks of designing an irrigation system is the sprinkler head layout. The sprinkler head layout consists of deciding what kind of sprinkler heads will be used and where exactly they will be placed. When I do a layout I place flags in the yard representing where each head will go.

I continue to mark out the sprinkler heads, using different color flags for each individual zone. For example, the front right spray zone may have blue flags at each spot where a spray heads will be placed, a side spray zone may have orange flags, and a back rotor zone would have red flags.

Keeping each zone its’ own color will help you with the building of your sprinkler system so that you don’t mix the wrong heads on a particular sprinkler zone.

When laying out your lawn sprinkler system remember to not mix rotors and spray heads as I mentioned in my previous article. Rotors and sprays put out water at a different rate so you’ll want to keep them separated.

Rotor heads typically throw 30 feet and can be reduced slightly if needed. Sprays can throw from 4 feet to 18 feet depending on what type of nozzle you use. Rotors can usually be adjusted from about 25 degrees to 360 degrees radius. Spray nozzles come in either fixed or adjustable pattern radius. I try and stick with fixed nozzles (ie. 15 half, 10 quarter, 12 full etc…) because they have a better spray pattern and don’t tend to get clogged like the adjustable pattern sprays.

A 15 half nozzle, on a spray head, throws a 15 foot radius of water in a 180 degree pattern. a 15 quarter spray nozzle throws water out in a 90 degree pattern. A 10 half spray nozzle throws out water a 10 foot radius in a 180 degree pattern. A 10 full throws out water in a 360 degree pattern (full circle) with a diameter of 20 feet (still a 10 foot radius).

Spray nozzles from major brands like Rain Bird and Hunter have the pattern and size of nozzle imprinted on the actual nozzle to help identify. A 12 half has the imprint “12 H” and has hash marks showing the 180 degree pattern. Rain Bird even color codes the nozzles for quicker identification of nozzle when out in the field. 15’s are black, 12’s are brown, 10’s are blue, 8’s are green (discontinued now), 4’s are yellow. They only started doing this a few years ago, so there are still many old nozzles where all the sizes are still black, so always make sure to look for the imprint.

Rotor nozzles come in different GPM (gallons per minute) sizes. The most typical sizes used in residential landscapes are 2.0 and 3.0 rotor nozzles. You may find the occasional 1.5, 5.0, or even 6.0. but it’s not too common for average sized yards. To provide for even watering with rotors, you would use 1.5’s for the rotor heads that will be watering approximately 90 degrees, and use 3.0’s for the heads that will be turning 180 degrees. Don’t freak out if you can’t get this exact…just try to be as close as you can.

Overall the most important factor when doing a lawn sprinkler head layout is to make sure that you have “head to head” coverage. What this means is that the water from one sprinkler head reaches the next sprinkler head in the yard. This will ensure even precipitation and “double coverage” which is essential to a proper lawn sprinkler design.

So a couple of main points to remember when designing out your lawn sprinkler system are: Make sure that you don’t mix rotors & sprays. Make sure that they heads are laid out so that you have double or “head to head” coverage. Use different color flags to represent the different zones when flagging or marking out where each sprinkler head will be placed.

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Above ground pools have gained popularity over inground swimming pools lately. This is partly due to the fact that current economics have driven homeowners to go for less expensive options. You get the same kind of fun, enjoyment and even fitness for less money. There are many types of above ground pools available in the market of varying shapes, sizes and depth just like inground pools. Installation takes a shorter time and in some cases takes just a few hours. These are also movable in case there is a need to relocate someplace else.

What is important for above ground swimming pools is the need for operation and maintenance equipment such as above ground pumps. Current trends have driven most of us to go green. It does not mean that we should take this meaning literally by keeping a pool of green water due to dirt, debris and algae. Going green in this case means using energy efficient and environment friendly appliances and equipment. In this particular article, let us try to get a better understanding of above ground pool pumps and how to make an intelligent choice.

Above ground swimming pool pumps serve as the heart of the pool cleaning system. Water is drawn from the pool to pass through a filter system. As it leaves the filter housing, it is free from dirt, debris and other unwanted particles making sure that clean water returns to the pool. High capacity and overload protector features make above ground pool pumps the efficient choice especially for fast filtration needs.

There are features, advantages and benefits in above-ground pool pumps that seem to sway homeowners into using them over inground pool pumps. Large filter baskets for one require less maintenance and allow efficient filtration for larger sized pools. The overload protectors help manage the pool owner’s electricity bills.

On the other hand, undersized above ground pumps can cost higher electricity bills since these take a longer period of time to clean the pool. This is why it is important to choose the correct model size that matches with the swimming pool size. Most of the time an above ground swimming pool kit would have a matching pump but pool owners may need professional help in sizing pumps for custom-made pools. Ovesized above ground pools can also pose some danger for children and the elderly as these can create swirling of the pool water. It can be uncomfortable too when you are trying to relax in turbulent water.

Above ground swimming pool pumps also prevent pools from becoming breeding grounds for bugs and insects. Pool water is constantly pumped and circulated preventing stagnant water that attracts insects and bugs. This can also prevent the spread of diseases within your family and circle of friends.

For those using solar pool heaters, above ground pool pumps propel water to these heating systems without additional energy cost. Using renewable energy coupled with minimal energy required by high capacity and efficient above ground pool pumps mean savings on electricity bills and less carbon footprints that harm the environment.

Above ground pumps are necessary components. Make the right choice and your investments will give back more years of fun and enjoyment.

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When someone decides they want to install an above ground pool seldom do their thoughts include above ground pool decks. Why? Probably because they are thinking about all the time they are going to spend in the water and lounging on a deck doesn’t even cross their mind. But if you are one of those people reading this article then let me put your mind to ease now that you are probably asking yourself how much more an above ground pool deck is going to cost. Not that much more unless you want something extensive. And by extensive I mean something that reaches from the house to the deck, which would probably need to be tiered.

The other, cheaper option is to get a freestanding deck. This is a laddered platform that stands next to the pool and has enough room for one or two people to stand. It also has a ladder the leads into the pool. There is a gate around the platform to prevent anyone from falling and injuring themselves. It also has a lock for when you don’t want anyone getting in the pool while you are not there. Freestanding decks are the most inexpensive and easiest to install above ground swimming pool decks available. Anything less would be a simple A-frame ladder that fits across the pool ledge.

If you choose the more extensive deck, one that wraps the pool, the most basic will have enough room to walk around the far side of the pool. It will have a deck area large enough to put a chair or two. And will have a protective fence so you can’t fall off and also to keep out trespassers. It attaches to the pool and can be fully customized. If you have bigger plans you may want to consult someone who specializes in above ground pool deck designs. They will be able to help you save money where you might not otherwise see it.

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Installing an above ground pool requires a lot of patience and knowledge. If you have purchased an above ground pool like the Tahitian 24ft Round 54in Steel Wall Pool with Resin Toprail and S.S. Panel, following the steps below will surely make this work a success. These steps are all applicable to any above ground pools.

Step One: Place of installation

Location is very important when installing an above ground pool. If you have a level surface in your backyard, that’s the right place for you to install the pool. If not, you may want to create a new level or landscape your area.

If your backyard happens to be a grassy area, this is a big problem you must solve. Above ground pools can damaged easily because of uncontrollable growth of grasses beneath the floor. Use a weed killer to remove them.

Step Two: Putting a bag of sand

Pour in some sand around the area where the pool will be installed. Scrape up the sand and remove any unnecessary debris you found. After scraping it up, you have to make sure the sand is spread in the same level. Use any material that can help you in equaling the level.

The purpose of these granules is to provide a soft surface on the pool floor. Adding to that, sand won’t damage your liners and it will also be your safeguard between the liner and dirt.

Step Three: Time to build the pool

Manufacturers provide an instruction manual or even a video on how to install an above ground pool. You should install the pool walls tightly so it won’t seep. Start first by creating a cover. This cove prevents the pool from creating a swelling space under the floor.

Some manufacturers have included a cove upon purchase of pool kits round. If your new pool doesn’t have a cove, prepare your own. It must be loaded a few inches up the pool wall and should be at equal level along the base. Once you’re done with the cove, start putting the liner.

Step Four: Adjust the liner

Once the liner has been installed, pour in the water and go inside the pool. The level of water must be below your ankle. Use your feet to adjust the liner starting from the center toward the wall.

Pull the liner to remove some wrinkles. Do this in every pool area until everything looks fine.

Step Five: Follow the instructions

Thoroughly follow the instructions stated in the manual. Make sure every pool parts are set and working properly after installing.

Pour in your water and apply some chemicals for balancing. Leave the pool for a week before your family uses it.

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An above-ground swimming pool is an inexpensive way of beating the summer heat. Compared to an inground swimming pool, an above-ground type costs less and takes only a few hours to install. It has gained popularity as it gives so much fun and entertainment value for less.

There are different ways of building an above-ground pool. Regardless of how it is built, it would require an above-ground pool ladder to provide swimmers access.

For example, a deck ladder is specifically made for a deck around the pool. This type of above-ground pool ladder is made of steel, stainless steel or hard plastic. A deck ladder allows users to descend from a deck outside of the pool walls. A deck can be built around the perimeter partially or fully covering the walls. The above-ground pool ladder specially made for this structure usually has two handrails with steps ranging between three and five. Handrails are fastened to the deck by bolt.

There is also another type of above-ground pool ladder that looks like a staircase. Some users may not be comfortable with using ladders. Compared to a deck ladder, the stairs type of above-ground pool ladder is more secure and comfortable. Handrails are built like those of deck ladders but would extend up to the last step which is at the bottom of the pool. This is ideal for older swimmers and those with injuries, making access easy and safe.

Have you ever been to a wedding reception? You may have seen how a wedding cake looks like. There is an above-ground pool ladder that resembles a wedding cake and rightfully so, is called the wedding cake steps. The tiered steps that look like a wedding cake lead pool users from the deck to the bottom of the pool. A handrail made of metal is installed to provide stability to pool users. The first step from the top is the smallest tier and it begins at the surface of the water. As the steps go lower, the tiers get bigger until it reaches the bottom of the pool.

In cases where in the above-ground pool does not have a deck, an A-frame ladder is exactly what you need. The shape of the ladder resembles the letter A. This is designed to fit over the pool wall of an above-ground swimming pool. Since there is no deck around the pool perimeter, the pool user climbs up the ladder from the bottom of the pool wall exterior. Upon reaching the top of the pool wall, the pool user then descends on the other side of the ladder. An A-frame above-ground pool ladder is usually made of strong plastic materials. The ladder has a capacity to bear as much as two average-weight people.

Perhaps the safest type of above ground swimming pool ladder is the pool entry system. It is a ladder system that utilizes stairs on both sides. There are handrails that lead from the bottom of the pool exterior up to the edge of the pool wall and down to the bottom of the pool water.

I would recommend that you consult with a pool dealer in your area.

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Above ground swimming pool liners are made of a thin vinyl material, and are designed to hold water in your above ground pool. The water inside an above ground pool pushes out against the pool walls and actually holds the walls up. If all of the water is drained from the pool liner, the thin steel pool walls will collapse inwards and be damaged. Swimming pool liners are a functional part of the above ground pool, but also add style and character. Above ground pool liners are available in an amazing selection of attractive patterns and styles, and often set the décor for the entire swimming pool area.

Replacement swimming pool liners for above ground swimming pools can be found in several grades, or thicknesses. The thickness of vinyl pool liner material indicates how durable the pool liner is, and how long it might last inside a swimming pool. The thicker the pool liner material is, the more durable it will be. The measure of pool liner thickness is presented in either “gauge” or “mil”, both meaning the same thing. The pool liner included with most new above ground swimming pools is plain blue color, and a 20-gauge thickness. Replacement swimming pool liners can be found in thicknesses up to 30-gauge.

Above ground swimming pools are built to accommodate either an overlap style liner, or a beaded style liner. The difference between a “beaded” style liner, and an “overlap” style liner is the way the liner is held in place inside the swimming pool. Beaded above ground pool liners have a very small groove or lip at the top edge of the liner. This small lip is snapped into a track all the way around the inside of the swimming pool at the very top of the pool wall, to hold the pool liner in place. If your swimming pool requires a beaded pool liner, you will be able to see this track by looking under the top rail on the inside of the above ground swimming pool.

An overlap style pool liner is folded over the wall of the swimming pool, and held in place underneath the top rail of the above ground swimming pool. If your swimming pool requires an overlap style liner, you can see a small amount of the pool liner under the top rail on the outside of the swimming pool. To install an overlap pool liner the top rail of the above ground pool is removed all the way around the pool. The new liner is placed in the pool, and draped over the top of the thin metal wall of the pool. Long plastic clips are placed over the liner and the thin metal wall to hold the liner in place, and the top rails are re-installed over the new liner. Most of the excess liner hanging down on the outside of the pool can be trimmed off.

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Captain beds are one of the best bed designs that offer just about everything you need for your bedroom whether you are sleep in a large, spacious room or a small, compact situation. This type of bedding furniture has been around since the early nautical days when wooden ship’s designers had to make every inch of a captain’s cabin provide maximum storage for those long hauls across oceans to worlds unknown. As these bedding designs have evolved over the last century, much of the old world charm is still available while providing updates to the storage and comfort requirement of modern day consumers. Also, modern designers have provided contemporary styling by not only recreating the original nautical flavors, but by also designing modern, sleek units that offer a broader appeal through various other styles.

Various Styles of Captain Beds

Nautical – Nautical is still the style that comes to many people’s minds when thinking about a captain’s bed. With it’s antique, old world artisan designs, these types of beds are still reproduced for both adults and children to enjoy. For those who like to imagine a long night’s rest similar to what many ship’s captains enjoyed in yesteryear, there is no better bedroom furniture than this style.
Contemporary – As mentioned earlier, furniture designers have kept the ever popular storage ideas that were initiated by early nautical furniture influences while accommodating modern culture’s preferences for sleek, compact bedroom storage units. For those who live in an urban environment with smaller bedrooms and less storage space than those in suburban living spaces, contemporary captain’s beds are a great addition to any bedroom. These can be found in popular colors such as black, white, or cherry.
Cottage – Casual styling such as cottage furniture are very popular styles that fit in with country living at its best. Some of these beds can be found in beautiful white washed finishes with louvered ornamental designs.

Storage Capacity

Captain’s beds are most popular for their various storage features that can accommodate adult, youth or toddler bedrooms. There are many sizes of beds such as king, queen, double, twin as well as bunk beds. Drawers are made in various amounts and will define how high a bed sits from the floor. The typical design is either 6 or 12 drawers made to open on both sides of the beds. There are other configurations as well and it’s best to explore your storage needs before making a final choice on what type of captain’s bed works for you.

Be sure to compare prices, styles and storage capacity options before deciding which furniture to purchase for either an adult bedroom or child’s sleep space. A captains bed is sure to meet your requirements for storage as well as style.

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Platform beds are perfect for those who want a simple and minimalist look for their bedroom. Platform beds’ appeal lies in their low-profile sleeping surface, simple lines and sleek design. These are beds whose base consists of a raised, flat, hard, horizontal surface meant to support a mattress. Platform beds provide firm cushioning and with the support of slats, they eliminate the need for a box spring or mattress foundation. Add to it the fact that the space beneath the platforms can be used as storage, and it’s little wonder then that their popularity has been on the rise recently.

Platform bed offerings include platform beds in wood, metal or leather. In wood, you can choose from some fantastic, exclusive, classic Italian designs from the leaders in Europe for high-end, sophisticated and contemporary furnishing. There is also an innovative range in transitional furniture with products manufactured to the highest standard using top quality, 100% kiln dried tropical hardwoods and veneers for beds to ensure strength and longevity. The wood finishes are applied by hand producing a rich finish. Another unique option in wood is the eco-friendly furniture from sustainable pine. This range, in unfinished wood, is highly functional and cost-effective.

A wood platform bed gives the bedroom a simple look and a feeling of being with nature. The low physical profile of a contemporary platform bed goes well with other low-set furniture such as low coffee tables, dressers and other bedroom furnishings. Besides being sturdy and strong, metal platform beds score over wood as they require far less maintenance; no more repainting or re-staining. Metal platform bed frames are made of tubular or sheet steel. Sometimes, for effect, platform bed frames can also have headboards and footboards, as well.

Modern platform beds in sleek shapes can compliment practically any decor, whether it’s contemporary, traditional or transitional. Simplicity makes a strong statement with a sophisticated leather platform bed.

The ever-popular Queen platform beds or King platform beds offer a practical solution with a modern design. These beds save you money since no box spring is required and generally the slatted platform frames have a center support to prevent sagging. Often platform beds have under bed storage drawers for an enclosed cabinet effect, to store bed linen, pillows, and various other items at your convenience.

Platform beds come in various sizes, including Twin, Full, Queen, King, and Cal King. In the US, Twin is also known as Single (38″ x 75″), Full as Double (53″ x 75″), Queen as Queen-size (60″ x 80″), King as Eastern King (76″ x 80″) and Cal King as California King (72″ x 84″). Cal King size beds, generally for tall people, are typically 12″ wider than a Queen-size bed and 4″ longer.

For more information on choosing the right Platform Bed for your home, check out Total Bedroom Furniture’s extensive array of Platform Beds and other Beds.

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Are you the type of person who is always looking for ways to save space inside of your house? Do you like to keep your house well-organized and have all of your items easy to find? If you are a person who is trying to stay organized, then you should consider getting a platform storage bed. Platform storage beds are easy to use, convenient for storage, and have a very practical purpose compared to most other types of beds.

In comparison to older models of beds, a platform storage bed is a type of bed that has built-in storage. Most times, when people attempt to store things near their bed, they just throw it under their bed. Throwing something under your bed just makes it tough to remember because you cannot physically see where the object is. If whatever item you threw under your bed happens to slip your memory in the future, you will probably have a much more difficult time finding it if it was tossed under your bed into a big pile of junk that is already under there. If you would have had a platform storage bed, this problem of you not finding something wouldn’t have occurred.

The nice thing about platform storage beds is that they allow you to organize all of your materials into the side compartments of your bed. Most platform storage beds have a few open-view shelves that are built-in on each side and at the foot of the bed. Certain models of platform-storage beds even have shelves near the head of the bed. Having these shelves makes it very easy for us to see where we put our belongings and clothing. You may choose to store some books on one of the side shelves, while some shirts on the other side of your bed.

Kids will absolutely love platform-storage beds because they will be able to keep their rooms more organized and not need to clean as much. You may be thinking, “Why wouldn’t kids need to clean as much?” Well, because they would be able to see that they have available storage to put their belongings. The problem with having just dressers and no bed storage in a room is that people ten to just give their stuff a nice toss under their bed. Sure this makes their room appear clean, but it will make finding belongings a very tough process. In order to avoid a messy room, platform storage-beds encourage kids to put all of their stuff inside of a shelf; there is no quick sliding of toys under the bed.

These types of beds are not only perfect for children though, adults and teens can find great uses for them. Do you read a book before you go to bed? Well, if you do, platform storage beds provide perfect compartments for you to drop your book inside of each night so that you do not end up throwing it in a random place on your floor, or even worse: end up rolling on it. By using a well-built platform-storage-bed, you will be able to remember where you put things in your room because they will all be organized inside of your platform storage. The next time that you need to make an investment towards buying a new bed for your home, you should undoubtedly consider getting a platform storage style bed.

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Are you the type of person who is always looking for ways to save space inside of your house? Do you like to keep your house well-organized and have all of your items easy to find? If you are a person who is trying to stay organized, then you should consider getting a platform storage bed. Platform storage beds are easy to use, convenient for storage, and have a very practical purpose compared to most other types of beds.

In comparison to older models of beds, a platform storage bed is a type of bed that has built-in storage. Most times, when people attempt to store things near their bed, they just throw it under their bed. Throwing something under your bed just makes it tough to remember because you cannot physically see where the object is. If whatever item you threw under your bed happens to slip your memory in the future, you will probably have a much more difficult time finding it if it was tossed under your bed into a big pile of junk that is already under there. If you would have had a platform storage bed, this problem of you not finding something wouldn’t have occurred.

The nice thing about platform storage beds is that they allow you to organize all of your materials into the side compartments of your bed. Most platform storage beds have a few open-view shelves that are built-in on each side and at the foot of the bed. Certain models of platform-storage beds even have shelves near the head of the bed. Having these shelves makes it very easy for us to see where we put our belongings and clothing. You may choose to store some books on one of the side shelves, while some shirts on the other side of your bed.

Kids will absolutely love platform-storage beds because they will be able to keep their rooms more organized and not need to clean as much. You may be thinking, “Why wouldn’t kids need to clean as much?” Well, because they would be able to see that they have available storage to put their belongings. The problem with having just dressers and no bed storage in a room is that people ten to just give their stuff a nice toss under their bed. Sure this makes their room appear clean, but it will make finding belongings a very tough process. In order to avoid a messy room, platform storage-beds encourage kids to put all of their stuff inside of a shelf; there is no quick sliding of toys under the bed.

These types of beds are not only perfect for children though, adults and teens can find great uses for them. Do you read a book before you go to bed? Well, if you do, platform storage beds provide perfect compartments for you to drop your book inside of each night so that you do not end up throwing it in a random place on your floor, or even worse: end up rolling on it. By using a well-built platform-storage-bed, you will be able to remember where you put things in your room because they will all be organized inside of your platform storage. The next time that you need to make an investment towards buying a new bed for your home, you should undoubtedly consider getting a platform storage style bed.

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