Imagine this: you wear your swimming suit, take your cold drinks outside, and dip your toes in the swimming pool—only to find the temperature off.

Aside from being a hassle to deal with, it can put a damper on your mood! So, your best bet to avoid similar instances in the future is to learn how to measure pool temperature.

This is where swimming pool thermometers come in handy. Pool thermometers come in different shapes and sizes, each with its own set of features.

Let’s take a look at a variety of thermometers for measuring pool temperature.

Pool Thermometer Types

The most common types of pool thermometers include:

1. Floating Pool Thermometers

As the name suggests, these thermometers will float in your pool, giving you accurate readings. Some of them come with a remote that allows you to turn them on and off. The remote can also show you the temperature.

Other budget-friendly options come as a single unit with a digital screen, which can be a little hard to read in some cases.

If you love swimming at night, we recommend investing in a unit with a remote or backlight screen for night-time reading.

Recently, there have been many advanced floating thermometers that come with dedicated applications you can download on your phone. This allows you to monitor your pool’s temperature all day with the press of a button.

Some thermometers also come with an indoor monitor that you can hang inside your home while measuring both temperature and humidity.

They may also include a comfort indicator that lets you know if the water is suitable for a swim.

2. Hanging Pool Thermometers

If you’re looking for a simple way to check the temperature of the water, a hanging pool thermometer is ideal.

Hanging pool thermometers are similar to the standard mercury ones, so you won’t need any batteries or chargers. They tend to be more affordable while still being as accurate as advanced thermometers. They also last longer than digital ones if you manage not to break them.

Typically, they come with a cord, which allows you to attach them to your pool. 

However, they aren’t as easy to read. You can only read the temperature when you hold the device, as they don’t have digital screens and the numbers are usually too small.

3. Infrared Pool Thermometers

With an infrared thermometer, measuring your pool’s temperature will be as simple as pointing the device at the water, and voila! You’ll get the readings right away.

This is the easiest and quickest way to check the temperature of your pool. You won’t be dealing with cords or blurry screens.

Unfortunately, you won’t get the most accurate results with infrared thermometers. That’s because they only measure the temperature at the top layer of the water. However, the readings won’t be far off. 

These thermometers aren’t as expensive as you think, though. They cost as much as digital ones. The thing is, you can use these thermometers in your kitchen or even to check someone’s body temperature.

Which Thermometer Should I Choose?

Choosing the right thermometer for your pool depends on your needs and how you intend to use the thermometer.

For starters, if ease of reading is your priority, you should avoid analog thermometers. Instead, you should go for a modern one with a bright screen or a wireless monitor.

When buying a wireless thermometer, make sure to check its range of transmission. Some devices use Bluetooth, which provides a limited range of transmission.

Furthermore, if you’re looking for the most accurate result, a hanging analog is your best bet.

It’s worth mentioning that digital pool thermometers need batteries to run. So, it’s essential to consider how long these batteries will last. Some advanced devices are rechargeable. In that case, make sure to check how long the device can work after a full charge.

Where do I Position the Pool Thermometer?

When it comes to floating thermometers, you don’t have to worry about positioning. They tend to record the average temperature of the pool, so jets won’t affect the results.

On the other hand, if you’re using a hanging thermometer, make sure to place it away from the pool jets. The water coming out of the jets can significantly affect the readings.

Finally, infrared thermometers typically measure the surface temperature. So, it doesn’t matter where you aim them.

Why Should I Measure Pool Temperature?

Measuring your pool’s temperature is essential for many reasons. Let’s check some of them out.

1. Keeping Swimmers Safe and Comfortable

No one enjoys swimming in a too-cold or too-warm pool. Super cold pools can make you feel tired faster.

In addition, jumping in a freezing pool might cause a shock. This shock may cause sharp intakes of breath and an increased breathing rate. It may also lead to a rise in blood pressure.

This can even cause asthma attacks or panic attacks in susceptible people.

Not only that, but blood will also rush to vital organs, leaving limbs deprived. So, swimmers will find it difficult to swim.

On the other hand, when the pool is too warm, it might lead to dehydration and overheating, especially during the summer. Swimmers may also experience muscle spasms and fatigue.

2. Controlling Algae and Bacteria

You’re probably in a constant battle to keep your pool free of contaminants. Typically, chlorine and other sanitizers can keep the situation under control with the help of filtration.

However, if your pool temperature becomes too high, it’ll be a suitable environment for algae and bacteria to grow.

These contaminants can get nice and comfy in a hot pool. Not only that, but they’ll also start reproducing and making themselves at home.

While keeping your pool at the optimal temperature won’t eliminate algae and bacteria, it’ll make it harder for these contaminants to grow.

3. Maintaining Pool Chemistry

High temperatures can affect your pool’s chemistry balance. Aside from the fact that high temperatures accelerate chlorine degradation, contaminants are more common in warm water.

Since they reproduce more rapidly in warm water, the chlorine amount in your water probably won’t be enough to get rid of them. 

Any imbalance in the chlorine amount can mess with your pool chemistry.

What’s the Optimal Pool Temperature?

Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to pool temperature. Generally, most people prefer the pool temperature to be between 78°F and 82°F for leisure. It’s also a suitable range for water aerobics and other activities.

However, for kids’ swimming lessons, the temperature should be at least 84°F. That’s important to keep their bodies comfortable in the new environment. It’ll also warm their muscles and prevent breathing difficulties, unlike cold water.

For seniors, it’s best to take the temperature even higher. A temperature of 86°F to 88°F is perfect for seniors, as cool water might be uncomfortable for them.

Many people consider hot tub ownership a luxurious experience. With hot tubs more affordable than in the past, people are becoming increasingly interested in ownership.

No matter where you install a hot tub, having enough space is integral for its function and your comfort. Learning about the space requirements will prepare you for installing your beautiful new hot tub with ease.

Structural Support Is Essential

Before we jump into information on space requirements, there is another more pressing matter. Hot tubs can be installed just about anywhere inside or outside of your home, but they must have ample structural support.

Empty hot tubs are already massively heavy, at around 850 pounds. Add water, and your hot tub could easily rise well over 5,000 pounds. In addition to the water weight, you must then consider the weight of the bathers.

You cannot install a hot tub in your home without getting help from professionals. Inside your home, a special slab, joists, and beams will need to be installed. It is wise to get service from a structural engineer to ensure the weight of the hot tub will not be a problem.

Because of the excessive weight of hot tubs, many homeowners decide to put them outside on decks or concrete slabs. Concrete slabs will need to be at least four inches thick to accommodate the pressure of the weight. You will need to ensure the hot tub is installed to meet all municipal codes and building standards.

Where Should You Install a Hot Tub?

Now that you understand how massively weighty hot tubs can become once filled with water, it’s time to consider where to install one. Even with the excessive weight, you do have options for installation.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a location for installation.

• Will there be enough space for bathers to walk around the tub and enter and exit it safely and comfortably?
• Is there enough space for a repair technician to come in and access the control panel for repairs?
• Does the area have enough space for placing the hot tub cover when not in use?
• Is there room for any additional plumbing and electrical line components?
• Is the installation area private, or will you need to construct a fence for additional privacy?

Just How Big Is a Hot Tub?

You now know about some of the space requirements and the structural support, but before you purchase a hot tub, you need to know the average dimensions. Average hot tubs measure around 7 to 8 feet square, depending on their occupancy level.

The following offers information on some of the common sizes of hot tubs and their measurements. Allow this information to help you when purchasing a hot tub and deciding on the space.

• Small hot tubs: 69 inches by 79 inches
• Corner hot tubs: 78 inches by 78 inches
• Medium hot tubs: 84 inches by 84 inches
• Large hot tubs: 94 inches by 94 inches
• Master hot tubs: 108 inches by 94 inches

You also need to understand another integral consideration which is the height. Why do you need to consider the height?

First, the height of a hot tub affects how it is delivered to your home. If you are having the hot tub delivered into your home or on a screened-in porch, you need to know the height of the tub.

The hot tub is going to be delivered on its side. If you purchase a master spa hot tub, it is 34 inches in height.

You also need to consider the height of the hot tub to know where to place it. Think about the height of the hot tub and the height of the bathers. You need to ensure you have plenty of room to sit back and put your hands behind your head and relax. You will need enough ceiling clearance to be able to stand up comfortably to get out of the hot tub.

Where Can You Install a Hot Tub If You Don’t Have a Deck?

While many homeowners install a hot tub on their decks, there are other options if you do not have one. The following foundations can be customized to fit the exact needs of your hot tub and its size. By using the two options below, you can install a hot tub in the backyard or even in a garden area.

Block Foundation

If you are on a budget, use blocks to build a strong foundation for your hot tub. Before you lay down blocks, you must make sure the ground is level. You will need to put down a layer of gravel or sand to prevent shifting in the earth.

When choosing blocks for your hot tub foundation, make sure they are at least three inches thick. To cover the blocks and make them look more attractive, you can add inexpensive decorative stones.

Concrete Pad Foundation

Most homeowners pour a concrete pad foundation for their hot tubs. You will need to pour a foundation at least four inches thick. You should embed rebar to reinforce the slab and prevent it from cracking.

A Hot Tub Will Relax Your Cares Away

Now that you know about space requirements and standard dimensions of hot tubs, you have all you need to get started. Choose the perfect hot tub, and enjoy it every day!

Start with 6 Feet

Every playset needs 6 feet of clearance all around it. Before you add the swings, lay the hookup points on the ground under the swing bar and stretch them out as far back as they will go to determine the full arc of the swing. Double that to determine the total open space you need around your swing set.

It would be nice to think that your older children will never swing out to the fullest arc before jumping off. It would also be nice to think that they wouldn’t climb the biggest trees in your backyard.

However, childhood is a time of tremendous exploration and creativity. At the end of the day, making your family swing set as safe as you possibly can will reduce worries.

Create a Safe Base

Once you have determined the best spot for your swing set, you’ll need to make sure you have a soft base. While many folks put their swing set down on spring grass, this can actually lead to hot summer hazards. That grass will dry in the summer sun and the ground will get extremely hard.

Rubber mulch is an ideal choice for a soft surface under a large swing set. If your children are small enough to test fit everything in their mouths, rubber matting may be a better choice. Do make sure that you use rubber products designed for playground use. Shredded rubber for landscaping can contain metal shards.

Wood chips are another soft option under a swing set. If your children are often barefoot, wood is not a good option. There is also a risk of mold under the wood chips, they are easily dispersed by dragging feet, and they will need to be topped up seasonally.

Sand and pea gravel offer some protection under a swing set. Neither of these are great mulch products; your swing set area will need to be lined with weed blocking fabric before you put down the sand and/or pea gravel.

Anchoring Your Swing Set

The size of your swing set and the size of your children will impact your need to anchor the toy. For example, you may need to start with pound-in anchors to secure a smaller swing set for your young children. As your children get older and can climb higher and swing harder, you may need to set your swing set with concrete.

Staking a swing set can be risky if your children love to play with tools. You may take the weekend to stake out the swing set, but your tool-happy child has hours to start working those stakes out.

If you use rebar to secure the swing set, wet weather and hard-swinging can cause them to pull out. The top of the anchor could become a tripping and scratching hazard over time.

Older children will need a bigger swing set. If you choose to concrete in any of the posts on a larger play set, do make sure you call first to avoid hitting any lines that could put you at risk.

Safety Points to Check

Large wooden play sets are an excellent investment, but they will need regular checks to make sure that they are secure. For example, extreme temperatures can cause the wood of a large swing set to split at the hardware points.

Hot sunshine will dry out the wood. Wet weather can lead to mold growth on your wooden swing set.

Do what you can to prevent wood stability loss. If you’re building the swing set, make sure you pre-drill all holes before you set screws. Instead of screwing in a platform or a swing, invest in bolts that can be threaded through and locked down with a nut.

The wood may degrade over time as the hardware works inside the hole, but you will be able to plan to repair those problems. Screws fail unseen and can lead to nasty falls without warning.

As you work to protect the wood, make sure your swings, chains, and ropes are also easy on little fingers and hands. Unless your hemp rope is extremely old and well-oiled, your children can get splinters. Chains can pinch little digits.

A steel chain with a rubber coating will be protected against rust damage and will be easy to hold onto.

Make sure you seasonally check all hooking hardware. If you have eye-bolts to hold up the swing chains, make sure that the bolt itself is not rusted and that the curve of the bolt is not showing signs of wear.

Grab the eye hook and give it a good shake to make sure it’s secure. Water seal the wood of your swing set when the kids go back to school.

Finally, check the spacing on ladders, decks, and climbing platforms. Older children may know better, but a curious toddler can quickly get themselves into trouble trying to crawl into a space that is almost big enough for them.

If you’re adding a ladder to a large wooden play set, make sure it’s got enough of a lean that small children can rest on it as they build their climbing skills.

Those who require a wheelchair may wonder about the weight limit. Today, we will discuss the different types of wheelchairs and their weight capacities to better understand which kind will be most beneficial for your needs.

Wheelchair maximum weight capacity

Depending on the type of wheelchair and its overall construction, the maximum weight limit can vary. On average, the weight limit of a wheelchair is between 200 and 700 pounds. The 200-pound weight limit is for lightweight wheelchairs and the 700-pound weight limit is for heavy-duty wheelchairs.

Types of Wheelchairs

As mentioned, the maximum certified weight a wheelchair can carry will vary. Each chair has its own weight limit and it’s important to check the weight limit before use.

Basic Wheelchairs

Basic wheelchairs have a seat with a back, two small front casters, and two large back wheels. These wheelchairs are manual. Users can propel themselves forward by turning the back wheels, or they can be pushed by a caregiver.

The weight limit for basic wheelchairs ranges between 250 to 350 pounds.

Lightweight Wheelchairs

Lightweight wheelchairs are less bulky than basic models, making them easier to transport. These wheelchairs are made from lighter materials, permitting people to lift them and maneuver them more easily.

Some lightweight wheelchairs are foldable so they can be placed in a trunk effortlessly.

The weight limit for lightweight wheelchairs ranges from 200 to 250 pounds.

Heavy-Duty Wheelchairs

These wheelchairs are often referred to as bariatric wheelchairs because they are meant for transporting heavier people. Heavy-duty wheelchairs come in both manual and electric models, depending on the needs of the user.

Heavy-duty wheelchairs can hold a lot of weight. The high-strength frame of these chairs allows them to hold people with larger frames and weights.

The weight limit for this type of wheelchair is around 700 pounds.

How to Determine the Weight Limit of a Wheelchair

If you own a wheelchair and do not know the weight limit, you can check the underside of the seat or the chair legs for a small tag that states the weight limit. If this search does not provide you with the weight limit, look up the model number and get the information online.

You can also contact the manufacturer for this information.

Keep in mind the materials of the wheelchair are going to determine how much weight it can hold. Lightweight, foldable wheelchairs are made from lighter materials and are usually made smaller than heavy-duty wheelchairs.

The lighter the materials, the less weight the chair will hold.

Tips for Purchasing a Wheelchair

Whether you need a wheelchair for an acute injury or a chronic condition, selecting the right model is essential. Although you may be able to fit in a wheelchair that does not have the correct weight limit, it will eventually break down over time.

Consider the following tips to help you purchase the right chair for your needs.

• Determine the materials. Heavy-duty wheelchairs are often made from steel and will hold up longer.
• Decide on manual or electric. Some people do not have the strength necessary for manual chairs and may need electric models.
• Think about the seat dimensions. Is there plenty of room for your body frame?
• If you will spend long periods of time in the chair, make sure it has ample padding and comfortable armrests.
• How easy is the wheelchair to transport? Is it easy to store? Does it fold?
• Determine the dimensions of the wheelchair. Ensure it will fit in the spaces of your home for easy maneuverability.

Ideally, you should visit a mobility store to try out different types and models of wheelchairs. Getting a feel for each chair by using it will help you determine which one will offer the level of mobility assistance you require.

Questions to Ask Before Getting a Wheelchair

Selecting the right wheelchair takes time and research. Learn as much as possible about the options and your needs before purchasing. Ask yourself these questions.

• Will I be using my wheelchair mostly outdoors or indoors?
• How much time will I spend in the chair each day?
• How will I transport the wheelchair?
• Is there someone who can help me with the wheelchair?
• Are there any limitations that would prevent me from using a wheelchair safely?

Final Thoughts

Wheelchairs offer comfortable mobility assistance for those who have injuries or illnesses that prevent them from walking. These chairs come in a range of sizes, materials, and comfort levels.

The weight limit of any wheelchair is an essential piece of information you need before purchasing. Choose a chair that has a higher weight limit than you need for longevity and comfort.

One of the biggest mistakes I made when I purchased my last barbeque was not buying a proper cover for it. A cover is an additional expense but they are worth their weight in gold.

Some people won’t bother buying a bbq cover if they have a covered deck or if the bbq will be indoors. If you have a cheap bbq and don’t really care about protecting it, then you probably won’t buy a cover for it.

But if you are anything like me, now that I have a more expensive bbq, I want to protect it the best I can to keep it operating it’s best and last for many years.

It can be confusing to know what size bbq cover you will need. Not all BBQs are the same size and therefore it’s important to choose the right cover to keep it properly protected.

Choosing the right size bbq cover

It’s not difficult to decide on what size bbq cover you will need. Basically you will need to measure the size of your bbq using a tape measure. You are looking to measure the length, width, and height.

Steps:

1. Most bbq cover sizes are based on the total width including the side burners and shelves. Measure the total width.
2. Then measure the total height with the lid closed. You can measure from the ground, just ensure that the cover reaches at least to the top of the tires.
3. Next measure the width. This should include the back of the lid and the front lid handle.

Once you know the dimensions of your bbq, you can choose the cover. Its a good idea to use a cover that is 1″ or 2″ larger than your measurement to have some wiggle room.

Most bbq manufacturers will recommend the right size cover for the specific grill. Check the packaging on the cover to make sure it matches the size of your grill.

Do you need a bbq cover?

This is somewhat of a hot topic for discussion and many believe that you don’t need to cover your bbq. I am not one of them. It’s true that you don’t need to cover it 24/7, but it is recommended that you cover it when possible and under certain weather conditions to keep it clean and in great condition. Without a proper cover, the life of your bbq can be drastically reduced.

When to use a bbq cover and benefits

You should use a bbq cover to protect your bbq from weather, including rain and snow. If you leave your bbq for extended periods of time in the sun, it can fade and lose its color. BBQ covers are also great for protection from falling leaves and branches, any accidental spills, and prevents insects and other animals from causing damage and building nests.

Other benefits include keeping it free from pollen and dust, bird droppings, and physical damage. It will also extend the life of the bbq and keep it operating at it’s best.

It’s important to point out that higher end bbq’s will stand up better to the elements than cheaper models. If the bbq is made with quality materials and has waterproof parts, it will last longer.

When should you not use a bbq cover?

There are times when it’s best to not cover your bbq. If you live in an area of high humidity where it is often warm and damp, you may choose to not cover it. Covering a bbq in these weather conditions can trap moisture under the cover causing rust and corrosion to form.

Some people will argue that covers don’t cause corrosion, but I will tell you from experience that covers can and will trap moisture under the right conditions. But there is a fix for this issue. You can choose a high-quality cover that has proper ventilation and it will help to prevent moisture from being trapped.

What to look for when choosing a bbq cover

Once you have determined the size, the next thing to consider should be the material. Avoid covers that are made with felt as animals are attracted to it and can tear it apart to use as a nest. Popular bbq covers are made with vinyl, polyester, and canvas which are waterproof and durable.

Also, check for certain features of the cover. Some of the higher-end covers will have air vents, pockets, handles, and tie straps which are very convenient.

Many of the Weber bbq covers include features like UV protection, ventilation, and warranty.

Consider your budget as well. BBQ covers vary in size, features, material, and cost. Although it may seem like a good idea to buy a cheaper cover, some of the higher-end covers will provide better quality and durability for a few dollars more.

Can you cover a grill while it’s still hot?

You should never put a cover on your grill when it is still hot. Always let it fully cool before covering it. Most bbq covers are not flame retardant or heat resistant so putting a cover on a hot grill is not recommended.

Weber grill cover size chart

If you have a Weber grill, use the following chart to see the proper size cover.

However, these routers have a limited range, so if you have a large home or you’d like to connect to Wi-Fi in the yard, garage, upstairs, downstairs, or in a guest house, you may want to consider a Wi-Fi extender.

These devices extend the range of your Wi-Fi service, and they can help you connect where you wouldn’t normally be able to.

So how Many Wi-Fi Extenders Do I Need?

In general, Wi-Fi routers offer a Wi-Fi range of about 150 feet.

It’s often easiest to think of this range not as a circle, but as a sphere. This means that, if you’ve placed your router in the middle of your house, you’ll be able to connect to Wi-Fi anywhere within 150 feet of the router, including upstairs above the router, downstairs below the router, or across the house or yard.

Different Wi-Fi extenders offer different extension limits.

Strong extenders can increase your Wi-Fi range by up to 2,000 feet, while smaller extenders can increase the range by up to 800 feet. If you’re using only one device, or plan to keep your devices in a central area, you may only need one extender. However, if you have several devices at opposites sides of a large house or yard, you may need two or more extenders, placed at different sides of the router Wi-Fi signal.

The exact number you need will depend on the strength of the Wi-Fi extender and the distance between the router and the devices you plan to use. It’s generally best to use as few extenders as possible, since, when the signal is extended, it slows down.

Where Should I Place a Wi-Fi Extender?

Wi-Fi extenders have to be placed within range of both the original Wi-Fi signal emanating from the Wi-Fi router and whatever devices, such as your computer or laptop, that you want to use with the Wi-Fi. This still leaves a wide range of possibilities for where to place the Wi-Fi extender, however.

It’s usually best to place the Wi-Fi extender as close to halfway between your router and your device as possible.

This helps to ensure a strong, even signal. If you can’t place it halfway, however, it’s best to have the Wi-Fi extender closer to the device, as opposed to closer to the router. This keeps your device firmly in a strong Wi-Fi signal.

It’s also a good idea to always try to place your router itself as close to the middle of the house as possible. If you’re attempting to extend your signal to the yard, garage, or a guest house, place the router as close to the center of the area as possible. This helps to offer a more even signal and can make placing various extenders simpler.

Inexpensive Versus High-End Wi-Fi Extenders

Wi-Fi extenders can be found in a range of strengths, all with different features. Extenders also run the gamut when it comes to pricing and can range anywhere from $25 to $200. Inexpensive extenders mean that it’s less pricey to purchase more than one, if necessary, but they may not carry a Wi-Fi signal as well as more high-end models.

Cheaper Wi-Fi extenders also tend to offer slower performance, and they may not offer as many features as their more expensive counterparts.

Less expensive Wi-Fi extenders may also have a smaller range than more expensive options. Purchasing a more expensive extender with a wider range can often mean a stronger, faster signal. Wi-Fi extenders generally slow down the internet signal, at least a little, so it’s a better idea to purchase one strong extender instead of using several smaller, less expensive extenders to stretch the signal.

Factors to Consider

Masking

Masking is what you do to make sure the only surface you paint is the walls. Masking can include

• moving furniture
• dusting, washing, and taping off baseboards
• putting plastic or a drop cloth on the floor

If you’re painting over carpet, put down plastic. If you’re painting over a solid surface flooring, put down a fabric drop cloth. Plastic offers great protection but it can be slick, especially if it gets wet.

If you’re getting off and on a ladder, you’ll be safer stepping down onto damp cloth than onto wet plastic.

Washing the Walls

Take a clean broom and sweep down the walls. If you’re painting a kitchen or bath, take the time to wash the walls with a mild degreasing soap.

For those moving into a new home, go ahead and wash all walls you’re going to paint with the same soap just to be sure.

Rinse the walls with a large sponge and a fresh bucket of water. As you brush, wash and rinse your walls, look for nail holes that need patching.

Patching the Holes

Invest in some quick-drying sheetrock mud or spackling compound to patch small nail holes. You will need a good taping knife for this project.

Make sure to clean this tool thoroughly and dry it before you put it away so it doesn’t rust. When the patch dries, sand it very gently and vacuum up the dust to avoid tracking it through the house.

Priming the Patch

Patches can be visible on a freshly painted wall. Take the time to prime your patch. One very simple method is to invest in a few microfiber rollers; when the patch is dry and sanded, lightly coat the patch in a primer and allow it to dry, preferably overnight, so your patches don’t read through your top coat of paint.

Covering the Old Color

The color you’re covering will have a big impact on the time it will take to paint your room. If you’re putting a light shade of cream or gray on the walls and you used to have a navy blue accent wall, prime over the accent wall.

Primer is formulated differently than ordinary paint. It has compounds in it that give it more cling. It can feel rather sticky or gooey when you put it on the walls.

If you must prime a large area of a room, set up fans and let it dry overnight before you put on your topcoat. You’ll get a much better quality finish.

Speed Up the Process Without Sacrificing a Quality Paint Job

Use a Good Quality Roller Cover

Cheap roller covers hold less paint. As you paint, you may be tempted to put pressure on the roller. Not only can this be tough on your hands, but you’ll get paint stripes squished out at the edge of the roller.

To thoroughly roll a wall, work in segments about twice the width of your own shoulders and about 4 feet from the ceiling or the floor. Don’t rush. Roll a V pattern in your designated space, then roll back over it to fill in around the V. Not only will this reduce the risk of paint gaps, but it will save your energy.

Use a low stool or a cushion so you can easily get on and off the floor. If getting down to the baseboard and back up is a challenge, work the top half of the wall first, then finish with the bottom half of the wall. Kneepads may be a good investment.

Cut Ahead, Roll After

Cutting in at the ceiling can seem very inefficient when you see how much progress you’re making with the roller.

However, rolling an entire wall to perfection and destroying it with a big drip from the ceiling cut will not make you happy.

Start at the ceiling, working twice the width of your V pattern; not only will this help you move along more quickly, but it will get the ladder out of your way.

Brush the corners and the baseboard cuts after you cut the ceiling line. Invest in a small roller that you can use to smooth out any brush marks in the corner.

When you roller to the end of your cut, put the roller spindle back in the pain and pick up the brush. In a 12 x 12 room, it is possible to cut the entire wall before using the roller. Just don’t roller ahead of the cut.

Pull Masking Tape Before Paint Dries

Paint will happily stick wherever it dries. If you used masking tape to cover around your trim, pull it before the paint dries completely to avoid tearing the paint away from the wall.

The trick to pulling masking tape effectively is to curl it away from the wall. On a stretch of baseboard trim, you want to loosen the end of the tape and roll it slightly toward you.

Work low and continue to gently flip the tape, sticky side up, as it leaves the wall. Skip gloves for this and gently crumple the tape as you pull it away.

If you forget or prefer not to risk it, use a very sharp box cutter or craft knife to cut the gap between the wall and the paint. Again, work slowly.

The key to a good paint job is not to rush the final step, which is actually putting color on the walls. The right paint can boost your mood and give you the color you’ve fallen in love with, but it won’t cover up nail holes or a cracked wall.

Be prepared to put in just as much time prepping as you do on the final topcoat.

One of the most challenging decisions parents must make is what crib to purchase for their sweet little one to sleep in at night and for naps. When searching for a crib, many parents have questions, including those revolving around how much weight one can hold.

We are here to answer this question in great detail and give you the information you need for making an informed decision. Knowing a crib’s weight capacity will set your mind at ease as you go shopping.

What Is the General Weight Capacity of a Baby Crib?

The answer to this question is not as straightforward as we would like because there are so many factors to consider, including the materials, support system, and size of the crib.

On average, baby cribs hold between 30-50 pounds of weight. A smaller portable crib will hold between 22 to 40 pounds, depending on the materials it is made from.

Factors That Control How Much Weight a Crib Can Hold

There are a few factors that will determine how much weight a crib can hold. Understanding these facets will help you make the correct crib purchase for your baby, no matter his or her age.

The Materials

One of the most significant contributing factors to how much weight a crib can hold is the materials it is made from. Not all cribs are the same.

Some cribs are cheaply made and could be a danger, especially if you purchase an older crib or one that is used. Before selecting a new crib for your baby, research the strongest materials, and choose wisely.

Most cribs are made from wood because it is considered the safest choice, but you may also find cribs made of metal and a mixture of materials, including plastics. The following are the strongest wood choices for baby cribs.

• American Beech
• Maple
• Ash
• Oak
• Birch

Pine is also a solid choice as far as the weight it holds, but it is a softer wood, so you will need to be careful about dents and scratches. You should avoid purchasing used cribs that have been painted because the paint may not be safe for your baby.

The Stabilizer Bars

Another factor that determines the weight capacity of a crib is the stabilizers. Some cribs only have a single stabilizer bar, and some have none at all. For the highest level of strength, you need a crib that has at least two stabilizer bars.

The Frame

The frame will also help you know how much weight a crib holds. Typically, you will see frames made of metal or wood. Wood slat frames usually hold more weight than flimsy metal mesh frames. Before purchasing any crib, make sure you check the components thoroughly to ensure the bed meets all safety guidelines.

The Size

The size of the crib also determines how much baby weight it can hold. Portable cribs, for instance, hold much less weight than larger stationary cribs. Generally speaking, if you want to purchase a crib that holds more weight than others, choose a larger crib.

How Do Companies Determine the Weight Capacity of Cribs?

You may think crib manufacturers decide how much weight their beds can hold, but this is not entirely true. While the manufacturer carries out testing, it is up to the American Society of Testing Materials to test cribs and decide how much weight they can safely hold.

The American Society of Testing tests baby cribs with a highly specific testing procedure. They use a 45-pound weight and repeatedly drop it at different points on the mattress, measuring the response of the crib’s components.

What About Convertible Cribs?

Many parents today realize the value of purchasing baby furniture that has usefulness that extends beyond the first year of life. The market is being flooded with cribs that convert to toddler beds and even those that eventually convert into a full-sized twin bed to take a child from baby all the way to adult.

It is important to note that not all cribs convert. While some crafty parents do a little engineering and carpentry work and change their baby’s crib to a toddler bed or twin, this is not advised. Even if you convert a crib to a bed, the weight limit remains the same unless you use fortifying materials, including a conversion bar.

Choose a Baby Crib Carefully

Selecting a crib for your baby is one of the toughest decisions to make. There are so many factors to consider, including how much weight the crib can hold.

When buying a crib, make sure you do research and learn as much as possible about the materials and components. Researching and learning about the weight capacity of the crib will ensure you select the right one for your baby.

That being said, unless you’re painting the whole house one color, you don’t want to overbuy.

Paint and primer can be costly, and buying too much is an extra expense that you don’t need.

Planning ahead and buying the right amount of paint and primer will save you money and frustration.

The following information will tell you how much paint and primer you will need for a 12×12 room along with some tips for using it efficiently.

How Much Paint And Primer Do I Need For A 12×12 Room?

In a room with flat 8-foot walls, you will need 2 gallons of both paint and primer to cover a 12×12 room. You may not use all 2 gallons, but it’s great to have a little bit extra just in case. Also, primer doesn’t cover as much area as paint so having 2 gallons of each will ensure you have enough for the project.

Plan ahead of time and purchase 2 gallons of paint and primer instead of 1. If you only buy 1 gallon and end up needing 1.5 or 2 gallons to finish the project, you will be forced to go back to the hardware store to buy another gallon.

This will leave you with extra paint and primer that you don’t need and is an additional expense.

How to Use Primer Efficiently

Once the walls are brushed, washed, and patched, you may be able to simply prime over your patches. This will not work if you

• are covering a saturated accent wall color with a lighter shade
• are covering a strong paint pattern or finish
• have a lot of patches and repairs to make

If you are just covering the patches, invest in a micro-foam roller that you can use to feather out the edges of the primer you put over the patch. Avoid using a brush if at all possible.

First of all, primer can be very hard on a good brush. Secondly, cheap brushes will leave brush marks and even hair in your patch.

Should you be painting a heavily textured wall, such as palm plaster, it may be difficult to wash the walls. Do make sure you brush them fully with a clean broom to take away as much dust as possible.

In such a case, you’ll get the best results by priming the walls from floor to ceiling for a clean finish.

Be aware that some primers can be tinted to stock colors. If you’re planning a very rich or saturated color on your walls, it may be worth it to use a tinted primer.

However, if you’re just painting one accent wall, a white primer will be fine.

As a general rule, you shouldn’t have to apply two coats of primer unless you are covering a very intense shade or a large stain.

Check the recommended dry times and let your primer cure fully before you add a second coat to a stain or color that bleeds through.

Check out: How long does it take to paint a 12×12 room?

A Word About Masking

Primer is high in resins and low in pigment. Where it hits, it sticks. Cover your skin as much as possible for easier cleanup. Pay special attention to your hair; getting primer out of long hair can be especially problematic.

If you’re painting ceilings as well as walls, use a face shield to protect your mouth, nose, and eyes.

How to Use Paint Effectively

Once your walls are fully primed and the primer has completely cured, you’re ready to paint. It is critical that you not rush this process.

Check the temperature requirements for your primer and the time needed to fully cure before you start your top coat to apply your chosen color.

To get a terrific-looking top coat over white primer, start in a corner with, if possible, a full wall with no windows or doors to break up the painting process.

Should you see that your chosen color will need more than one coat early in the process, you can go get more before it’s a crisis. Use a brush to paint down the corner, edge the corner where the ceiling meets the wall, and edge above the baseboard.

Masking tape will protect your baseboard and a masking shield that you hold against the ceiling will protect that corner and keep it tidy.

Give yourself a wide enough cut zone to give you plenty of rolling space; I usually try to cut a full wingspan, from fingertip to fingertip.

You’ll probably need a ladder to do the ceiling cut. You can avoid rolling too far ahead by setting the ladder up for your next cut and rolling from the corner to the ladder.

Keep rolling simple. If your walls are flat, use a 3/8-inch roller. If your walls are heavily textured, you may have to go up to a 3/4 or 1-inch roller.

This will mean burning a lot of paint in the roller, but you’ll get a much nicer finish if you don’t skimp on this.

Roll a “V” from waist to ceiling from left to right, then roll back, right to left to fill in and use all the paint that you just put on the wall. Pay attention to your hands and your eyes.

If you notice gaps in coverage or feel yourself pressing to push paint out of the roller, get more paint out of the pan.

As you roll on the paint, check your cut line at the ceiling for drips. It’s very easy to miss these and can really make a freshly painted wall look shabby if you have a long, dried drip that formed after you rolled that section of the wall. The rolling step is your second look. Cut first!

Roll from top to bottom. Once you have the first “V” filled in, move to the bottom part of the wall and work the same pattern.

If you have a hard time bending or working on the floor, you can roll the top first from corner to corner and then roller the bottom section of the wall.

Just keep an eye out for drips and always work top to bottom.

Tools

A good cutting brush should always be cleaned thoroughly after you finish the job.

Any remaining paint will make your brush stiff and will take away the flexibility of the bristles to give you a good cut the next time you paint.

Tools that are used for primer will not be a great choice for use with paint in the future.

While I have been able to clean a roller well enough that I can later use it for primer, I have not gotten a good paint job out of a used roller.

Rollers are designed to hold and disperse paint. When trying to clean them, you’ll find the “hold” feature to be a real challenge.

Microfiber rollers are generally too small to paint a whole wall (unless you really like to roll paint) but they are terrific for

• covering sheetrock patches with primer
• filling in paint around light switches and under outlets
• wooden trim paint jobs

Do be aware that microfiber rollers don’t actually move a lot of color from bucket to surface. If you’re covering a deeply saturated shade, you’ll still need to prime.

However, these little rollers offer a lovely, smooth finish when applying trim paint in particular.

Be prepared for some painting tools to be disposable. Take very good care of your spindles, but go ahead and discard rollers that are impossible to clean.

Be religious about cleaning your good brushes and try to prime with small rollers rather than cheap brushes. You’ll be much happier with your finish.

Average Swimming Pool Sizes

Swimming pools, whether they’re indoor or outdoor pools, can be found in almost any shape or size, so you can create a pool that perfectly suits your needs and the style and décor of your house and yard. However, there are a few common dimensions that can help you get a better idea of just how much space pools need.

Most in-ground swimming pools are rectangular or oblong, and they’re usually about twice as long as they are wide.

Small swimming pools are usually about 10 by 20 feet or 3 by 6 meters. Medium-sized swimming pools are around 15 by 30 feet, or 4.5 by 9 meters, while large swimming pools are usually about 20 by 40 feet, or 6 by 12 meters, in size. Most swimming pools, unless there is a deep end for diving, have an average depth of about 5.5 feet, or 1.7 meters.

How Much Space Do I Need for an Outdoor Pool?

The exact amount of space you’ll need for your new pool depends on a number of factors, including the size and shape of the pool, fencing needs, and whether you’ll want to add in space for a deck, waterfall, or other features. In general, however, a pool and the surrounding deck will take up about one-quarter of the available space in your yard.

This means that for a medium-size pool that’s about 15 by 30 feet, you’ll need a yard that’s about 1,800 square feet or 549 square meters.

How Much Space Do I Need for an Indoor Pool?

Like outdoor pools, how much space you’ll need for an indoor pool depends on what amenities you’ll want to add as well as the size and shape of the pool.

However, in general, you’ll want to add at least 1 foot of space to the total width of the pool and 3 feet of space to the total length of the pool. If your indoor pool is 10 by 20 feet, you’ll need 11 by 23 feet or 3.4 by 7 meters of space inside the room.

Space Planning Tips

When you’re figuring out how much space you’ll need for a pool, the exact size of the pool isn’t the only thing to consider. You’ll also want space around the pool for walking. A deck area, where chairs or a table can be placed, is also a good idea. Many areas also require that outdoor pools be fenced in.

Unless your yard is already fenced or walled in, you may want to add in enough space for a security fence. Fencing around a pool is also a great idea if you have small children or pets that shouldn’t have access to the pool without supervision.

You may also want to consider any other backyard or pool amenities before deciding on the size of your pool. If you want to have an enclosed space for changing or showering, for example, you’ll need to make room. You’ll also want to designate an area, either inside or outside the wall, for the pool pump and filtration system.

In addition, if you want to add any extra features, such as a waterfall or any other landscaping ideas, you’ll need to provide adequate space.

Keeping your pool’s design slightly smaller and designing a pool shape that fits into the natural shape of your yard is often a good idea in order to ensure that there’s adequate room and things don’t look cramped.

However, if you have several family members or plan to spend a lot of time in the pool, you might want to build a pool that’s as large as possible to get the most out of your space.

When planning the pool size and location, remember to build away from any tall trees or flowering shrubs. Plants that constantly drop leaves, fruit, or flowers into the pool water can make keeping the pool clean a hassle.

You’ll also need to check for power and water lines underground to ensure that you can dig in the area you’ve picked out.

Does a pool add value to your home?

It’s possible that the addition of a pool can add to your home’s overall value. It’s not always the case but ensuring certain conditions are met will certainly help. This includes your location, the type of pool being installed, and if buyers in your area are interested in having a pool.