Journal

News & stories.

The Journal

Field notes and stories from our builders.

News from the studio, buying guides for prospective clients, and the occasional reflection on a recently completed project, written by the people who actually build the pools.

Filter by category to dive deeper into a particular topic, or browse chronologically to follow the work as it unfolds.

XL Pools Shortlisted for the 2026 European Pool & Spa Awards

XL Pools has been shortlisted for the 2026 European Pool & Spa Awards, one of the most prestigious accolades in the swimming…

The Space Question Every Pool Project Starts With

Before you start choosing pool shapes, finishes, or features, there’s a more fundamental question to answer. How much space does a home…

Thinking About an Indoor Swimming Pool? Here’s What You Need to Know

An indoor swimming pool is one of the most ambitious home projects a homeowner can take on. The idea is easy to…

Telescopic Pool Enclosures: The Upgrade Your Pool Has Been Missing

If you already have a home swimming pool, or you’re planning one, a telescopic pool enclosure is one of the most practical…

How to Maintain Your Swimming Pool: A Seasonal Guide for UK Homeowners

Owning a swimming pool is one of life’s great pleasures, but keeping it in peak condition takes consistent attention throughout the year….

Garden Swimming Pool Ideas for Kent Homes: Inspiration and Expert Advice

If you live in Kent and you’re thinking about adding a swimming pool to your garden, you’re not alone. More homeowners across…

XL Pools Wins Gold at the 2026 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards

At XL Pools, we have always prided ourselves in knowing that our best projects stem from strong relationships with our customers. That…

What to Consider Before Building a Pool in 2026

Building a swimming pool is an exciting investment, not just in your home, but in how you live. For many of our…

How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool in 2026? A Step-by-Step Timeline with XL Pools

If you’re considering a new swimming pool, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how long the process will…

Fibreglass vs Concrete Pools: Which Is Right for Your Home in 2026?

If you’re considering investing in a swimming pool this year, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to choose a…

Why buy from XL Pools

What to Look Out for When Choosing a Swimming Pool Contractor (and Why XL Pools Is the Best Choice) Choosing the right…

Benefits of a one piece swimming pool

The Benefits of Installing a One-Piece Swimming Pool: Why Aqua Technics Pools are the only choice you should be considering A swimming…

XL Pools Becomes UK Distributor for Aqua Telescopic Pool Enclosures

XL Pools is proud to announce its partnership with Aqua Telescopic, becoming the exclusive UK distributor for their premium telescopic pool enclosures….

XL Pools Debuts The Aqua Technics Infinity Round Pool

XL Pools is delighted to introduce the Aqua Technics Infinity Round Pool, an exciting addition to the UK swimming pool market. This…

XL Pools Wins 7 Prestigious SPATA Awards, Including Best One-Piece Pool in the UK

XL Pools has once again set the standard for excellence in the swimming pool industry, securing seven awards at the prestigious SPATA…

ATP UK

Welcome to Aqua Technics UK The month is July 2021, Boris Johnson has just confirmed that all COVID-19 restrictions will be scrapped…

XL Pools at the Wealden Fair: Excited to Be Back for 2025!

Last year, XL Pools were thrilled to attend the Wealden Fair in June 2024, a vibrant gathering that celebrated the best of…

Making a Splash in 2024: The Hottest Swimming Pool Trends

Are you dreaming of transforming your garden into a luxurious oasis? Look no further than your very own swimming pool! As we…

XL Pools Celebrates Success at the 2024 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards

We at XL Pools are thrilled to announce our exceptional achievements at the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards, hosted by…

XL Pools Secures Prestigious Bronze Award at the EUSA 2023 Awards for Excellence in Domestic Pools with Automatic Covers

XL Pools, a leading name in the swimming pool industry, is thrilled to announce its impressive achievement at the European Union of…

Benefits of Hiring a Swimming Pool Maintenance Company

Swimming pools are a great addition to any home. They provide an opportunity for exercise, recreation, and relaxation. However, owning a swimming…

Benefits of a One-Piece Pool Installation

One-piece pools have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their numerous benefits over traditional concrete or above-ground pools. These pools,…

XL Pools Win Top International Award From Australian Pool Manufacturer, Aquatic Leisure Technologies

Luxury pool manufacturer Aquatic Leisure Technologies recently announced that the 2022 ‘International Rising Star’ Award was being presented to XL Pools for…

XL Pools Wins at 2022 SPATA Awards

Never before has the desire for pool and hot tub ownership been in such huge demand worldwide as it has been in…

XL Pools wins prestigious gold award at European Pool & Spa Awards

Each year, EUSA holds an awards event to celebrate the tremendous work of its association members, this year the event was held…

XL Scoops Top Pool Design Awards

‘Only the ‘Best of the Best’ win a British Pool & Hot Tub Award’ this is clearly demonstrated by the winners of…

XL Pools Mascot ‘Dog Blog’

XL Pools cat walk….or is it dog walk? After a wonderfully hot bank holiday weekend that broke records across the UK, the…

Install Information

What is the procedure of a pool install with XL Pools? What to expect: Undergoing a home swimming pool installation is a…

Rollo Covers, Can you ‘STAND’ them?

We can! In fact we can stand on them..literally! Compass Rollo covers are integrated slatted covers that are designed for maximum energy…

Looking for the highest quality swimming pools Fibreglass is the key

Swimming pools can come in numerous shapes and sizes, but the first thing to decide is what type of construction material to…

How is a Fibreglass Pool Installed?

Have you ever wondered how a fibreglass pool is installed? Well, firstly we have to have the pool sent to your property….

Top 5 Reasons to Purchase a Fibreglass Pool

When someone is considering installing a swimming pool, there are many factors that will dictate whether they choose fibreglass, concrete, or vinyl…

What Size of Pool is Best For You?

A common question we get asked is what size pool they should get. The answer to this may not always be a…

Swimming Pool Construction and Trees: 5 Common Questions

With our business being based in Kent, the garden of England you wouldn’t be surprised to hear we have to deal with…

A Guide to Automatic Pool Cleaners

Scrubbing and cleaning your pool may well be up there with going to the dentist or a commute to the city in…

Preparing for a Pool Installation? Here’s a Handy Checklist.

Are you preparing for your pool installation? Exciting times ahead! In a matter of weeks, you will be happily swimming and enjoying…

How to Properly Add Chlorine Tablets to Your Pool

A common question we get asked is how best to dose chlorine tablets to a pool. There are various ways to dose…

Keeping Unwanted Animals Out of your Pool

There is running joke in the XL Pools office about ducks swimming in the show pool, most likely sipping on a pina…

How to Keep Your Pool Clear While on Holiday

With the summer sun holiday season approaching, you may be looking forward to your break away in the sun for a week…

How to Make Your Pool Energy Efficient

In these austere times everyone is trying to save money and make savings on their expenditure; if you own a pool you’ll…

How to Give your Pool A Spring Clean

Have a think about the last time you gave your pool a through clean? When we say a thorough clean we mean…

Understanding Swimming Pool Circulation

What is a swimming pool? When you boil it all down, a swimming pool is just a giant structure that holds a…

A Comprehensive Guide to Swimming Pool Enclosures

In the UK, sadly we aren’t blessed with perfect weather. Even in the height of Summer, bad weather can spoil your plans…

How to Accurately Test Your Pool Water

It’s important to learn how to test pool water and do it at least once a week to make sure the pH…

Why Do Blondes Get Green Hair in Swimming Pools?

Blondes have more fun, according to Rod Stewart. However, when they exit a swimming pool, blondes have more trouble too: green hair!…

Heating Your Pool With a Heat Pump

Here in the UK, I think we can all agree we aren’t blessed with constant sunkissed shores and warm summer days. So…

Dealing with Wrinkles in a Pool Liner

There is nothing the rejuvenates the look of your swimming pool than a new pool liner. However, your liner may become tired…

What is The Difference Between Powder and Liquid Chlorine?

Many new and veteran pool owners alike ask what the difference is between liquid chlorine and powder chlorine? They are not sure…

6 DIY Swimming Pool Hacks

In the age of Pinterest and do it yourself home projects we have seen a rise in some of your very own…

How to Backwash a Sand Filter

In a sand filter, water flows into a multiport valve, down through a thick bed of filter sand, back up the multiport…

The Benefits of Hiring a Swimming Pool Maintenance Company

Cleaning your pool can be a tedious task, it requires regular attention and if life gets in the way and you aren’t…

Converting Your Pool to Saltwater

The idea of a saltwater pool is not a new one. In fact, saltwater pools have been around since the 70’s however…

How to Stop Your Pool From Bubbling.

A common problem pool owners ask is why their return jets are bubbling? It is not unusual to start seeing small bubbles…

7 Tips to Get Your Pool Ready to Swim

One of the biggest chores in the pool owners diary is the spring opening. Most people will either employ a company to…

Open your Pool Early and Save Money

The temperature outside maybe in negative numbers right now so thinking about opening your pool anytime soon may well be the last…

How to Lower Calcium Hardness in Your Pool

Hard water (especially for those of us who live in the south east of England) is a well known problem for kettles,…

What is The Difference Between Stabilised and Unstabilised Chlorine?

The world of pool chemicals and the different choices you can make are seemingly countless. One thing many pool owners, especially new…

Why is There Sand in Your Pool and What You Need To Do About It.

It can be a worrying thing to suddenly see sand or glass media at the bottom of your pool. The most likely…

How Often Should You Shock Your Swimming Pool?

Many pool owners new and old wonder how often their pool needs shocking. To shock your pool is by far the best…

How Do You Dose Your Chlorine Tablets?

90% of swimming pools we work with at XL Pools use chlorine to sanitize the pool. This typically involves using a tablet…

How to Create a Pool Maintenance Plan

It’s the one thing pool owners all share, the maintenance of your pool. Creating and sticking to a consistent plan of attack…

What to do if Your Pool Has a Nitrate Problem?

Nitrates are not an uncommon problem to have especially if you are in the UK. It is important to be mindful of…

Triple Gold, Pool of the Year & Contractor of the Year 2018

Tuesday 30th January was the date of this year’s British Pool & Hot Tub Awards, hosted by BISHTA and SPATA, held at…

How to Fix Cloudy Pool Water

Waking up one morning and finding your pool has turned a white milky mess can be a daunting thing even for a…

The Perfect Times to Open and Close your Pool

That sad time of year when the weather just doesn’t look as appealing, least of all to be running out into the…

Swimming Pool Heating

There are essentially two different types pool heating systems, primary and secondary. A primary system is a system where the home owner…

Pool Hall Construction Considerations

If a swimming pool is to be used throughout the year the structure placed over a it must conform to Building Regulations…

Indoor Pool Design Considerations

Pool tied to building. Often architects specifying indoor pools will place the pool hard up against one wall with the wall of…

Outdoor Pool Design Considerations

Any of the pool construction methods described in the previous article can be utilised to build an outdoor pool. Outdoor pools do…

Ground Conditions & Ground Water Handling

One common factor in relation to the proper installation of all pool shells is dealing with groundwater. If the groundwater pressure builds…

Pool Construction Types

Pool Shell Construction Methods – Differences, Advantages & Drawbacks There are essentially five types of pool shell; those erected above ground; the…

Preliminary Questions to Ask in a Pool Build.

Before the designer can start work on a pool design, there is some information which is essential and, generally, can only come…

What is the Difference Between Clarifier and Flocculent?

Flocculent is a very handy chemical to have at your disposal in your swimming pool arsenal when you want to clear a…

The Future of Pool Cleaning

The future is now! Autonomous pool cleaners are not new to the market. In fact, some have been around for almost 30…

Swimming Pool Chemistry 101

The water in a swimming pool has to be kept well maintained to maintain perfect clarity, sanitation and wellbeing of the equipment…

Conserving Water That Your Swimming Pools Uses

Many customers and new pool owners ask us how much water will having a swimming pool consume annually. The problem with answering…

How to Clean a Green Pool When You Have a Saltwater System

Having a saltwater generator on your pool has many benefits however the effect of sanitation will not be much different from a…

How to Improve the Look of Your Pool Surround

The winter is by far the best time to start some repairs and maintenance to your pool surround. If your patio is…

How to Prime a Pool Pump

A common question our service department get asked is how do you prime a pump? A pump will need priming for many…

Protecting Your Pool Cover in the Winter

When the colder months draw in and your pool is closed, there are some things you can do to protect your cover…

10 Things you Should Stop Doing with Your Pool Today

Swimming pools can be complicated beasts. There are many things you need to do to maintain a pool and sometimes, we find…

How to Clean a Green Pool

Pea soup, not an attractive dinner and defiantly not an attractive colour of water for your pool. The fact is that a…

How to Balance Chlorine and Cyanuric Acid in Your Swimming Pool

One of the struggles pool owners, especially new pool owners have, is maintaining your chlorine level. This is particularly difficult in the…

Winter is the best time for a pool installation or renovation. Here’s Why…

With the cold weather due to be setting in, it might seem an odd time to start thinking about having a swimming…

Outdoor Pool or Indoor Pool – Which One Is Best?

Swimming pools are great for all kinds of activities. The kids can play in the pool during the summer months and you…

Could You Swim for Charity?

There are a million and one ways to do something sporty and raise money for charity. You could climb Kilimanjaro, complete an…

How to Plan a Kid’s Pool Party

Swimming pools are tremendous fun. When the sun is beating down and the mercury is hitting 30 degrees, nothing beats an afternoon…

It’s Not Summer, Why Are You Saying Install A Pool Now?

It’s the last day of November and the days are becoming noticeably shorter, colder and darker. Your mind is mentally checking off…

What is involved in a Winter Shutdown?

This is a question that is frequently asked to us by our customers, particularly those new to the pool world. Unfortunately, it’s…

The Careful Balancing Act of Pool Sanitation

Maintaining the correct water chemistry is important for a few reasons. Firstly it keeps the water looking good, nice and clear and…

Summer Pool Maintenance Tips

With the warm weather upon us now this is the time of year you should be enjoying your pool the most. Today…

Money Saving Tips for Swimming Pools

A swimming pool can be a great inspiration for a household to be more water-wise and energy efficient. As a responsible pool…

Top Reasons to Renovate Your Pool

Like most things, a swimming pool needs regular care and maintenance to keep it in good condition, and even then it won’t…

Triple Gold & Swimming Pool Contractor of The Year 2015

Sunday 1st February was the date of this year’s British Pool & Hot Tub Awards, hosted by BISHTA and SPATA, held at…

Common Pool Renovation Mistakes

Is your swimming pool looking a bit tired or shabby and in need of some tlc? Perhaps you’ve acquired a pool with…

Three Simple Ways To Reduce The Work Of Cleaning Your Swimming Pool

If you use your pool regularly and want to ensure your swimming pool water is clean, hygenic and enjoyable to swim in,…

Swimming Pool Installations FAQ

Having a new swimming pool is an expensive and potentially disruptive time. Essentially, swimming pool installation is quite a major construction project…

MagnaPools – Non-Chlorinated, Non-Saltwater Pools!

If you like the idea of swimming in a non-chlorinated pool, but you’re not keen on traditional saltwater swimming, a MagnaPool is…

Customise Your One Piece Swimming Pool

One piece swimming pools are constructed using a mold, so they are typically available in a range of predetermined sizes and shapes….

Babies In Swimming Pools – The Benefits

Swimming with your baby is a great way to have fun, get some exercise and get them used to being in the…

Why Consider A Swimming Pool For Your Holiday Let?

It’s becoming more and more common for holiday cottages and other vacation properties to include use of a private swimming pool. If…

Saltwater Swimming Pools – An Alternative To Chlorine

Saltwater Swimming Pools – An Alternative To Chlorine If you’re looking for a home swimming experience with a difference, why not consider…

How Long Does It Take To Install An Outdoor Swimming Pool?

An outdoor swimming pool can be relatively quick and simple to install when compared to an indoor pool. It’s still often a…

How Do I Reduce My Swimming Pool Maintenance Costs?

Having a swimming pool is never a cheap option, and as well as the initial outlay for designing, building and swimming pool…

Not For The Faint-Hearted – Swimming Outdoors In Winter

Now that the clocks have gone back and British Wintertime is officially upon us, most outdoor pool owners in the UK will…

One Piece Pools Versus Bespoke – Which Is Best For Me?

Once you’ve made the decision to invest in a swimming pool for your property, you’ll be faced with a multitude of choices…

Modern Trends In Swimming Pool Design

Just as a home swimming pool is no longer a luxury reserved exclusively for the super-rich and famous, swimming pools themselves are…

What Is The Recommended Indoor Swimming Pool Water Temperature?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Deciding on an appropriate water temperature for your indoor swimming pool is partly a matter of personal preference, combined with consideration for…

Creating The Right Environment For Your Indoor Swimming Pool Room

Once you’ve decided on the type and structure of the swimming pool of your dreams, you’ll need to think about the pool…

Preparing Your Pool For Winter: Check Your Levels

Before you position your winter cover on your outdoor swimming pool and fully close it down for the cold season, you should…

Preparing Your Pool For Winter: Your Winter Pool Cover

In last week’s post, we covered how to begin preparing your swimming pool for the winter. If you have an outdoor pool…

Preparing Your Pool For Winter: Draining Your Equipment

With the summer coming to a close and the nights drawing in, it’s time to reluctantly begin thinking about preparing your outdoor…

Swimming Pool Maintenance: Seasonal Opening and Closing of Swimming Pools

Outdoor swimming pool owners will be well aware of how exposed an outdoor pool is to the elements. It’s subjected to rain,…

Swimming Pool Maintenance: Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Pool Maintenance

If you’re a swimming pool owner, you’ll know the importance of developing a proper maintenance routine to ensure that your pool is…

Swimming Pool Maintenance: Automatic Cleaners

Whatever type of home swimming pool you have, indoor or outdoor, large or small, it will need to be cleaned regularly in…

Swimming Pool Maintenance: Chemistry In Action!

Swimming pools, particularly outdoor pools, are open water systems and require regular cleaning and maintenance in order to keep them hygienic, healthy…

Exercises In The Pool: Swimming For Fitness – Vary Your Stroke

In the last few blog posts we’ve focused on aqua aerobics and how you can use specific exercise routines to work on…

Exercises In The Pool: Tips For An Effective Water Workout

Water aerobics is easy, accessible and suitable for all. Exercising in the water is great for your muscles, gentle on your joints,…

Exercises In The Pool: Make The Most Of Your Water Workout With Simple Equipment

Like a lot of forms of exercise, it’s easy to work out in the pool without any special equipment, training or experience….

Exercises In The Pool: Burn Fat Faster With Water Aerobics

Exercising in a swimming pool is a great way to get an all-round workout: the water provides support, resistance and buoyancy, enabling…

Exercises In The Pool: Exercises For Strong Leg Muscles

Doing leg exercises in the swimming pool is a great way to tone up, especially if you have joint problems, as it’s…

Exercises In The Pool: Arm Exercises To Tone And Strengthen

It’s common to find exercises targeting the arms in any aerobics routine, but with water aerobics you’ll find you’re able to complete…

Exercises In The Pool: Tummy Toning Routines

Once you’ve got to grips with the idea of doing exercises in the pool other than simply swimming, it’s surprisingly easy to…

Exercises In The Pool: Energise And Refresh Your Body And Mind With Water Aerobics

Lots of people use their swimming pools as a way of keeping fit, either by swimming lengths, or swimming against a current…

Designing Your Swimming Pool With Safety In Mind

Designing Your Swimming Pool With Safety In Mind When you think about it, there’s lots more to being safe around a pool…

7 Of The Worlds Most Amazing Swimming Pools

It’s not even June yet and we are all dreaming of jetting off on holiday. Check out some of these swimming pools….

How To Choose The Best Cover For Your Pool

How To Choose The Best Cover For Your Pool One of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning and designing your…

Swimming Pool Design to Match Your House

Swimming Pool Design to Match Your House If you’re in the early stages of planning your new swimming pool, you’ll have lots…

A Touch of Luxury

A Touch of Luxury There’s no two ways about it, having a swimming pool installed in your home is often an expensive…

Building Regulations and Your Indoor Swimming Pool

If you’re considering having an indoor swimming pool constructed, you’ll need to bear in mind planning permission and building regulations, and ensure…

Outdoor Swimming Pool Building Regulations

Building regulations and planning permission will not normally apply to an outdoor swimming pool. All swimming pools, either indoor or outdoor, not…

Annual Maintenance Costs For Your Pool

Annual Maintenance Costs For Your Pool Having a swimming pool installed on your property, either inside or outside, is a huge investment….

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