I’m a gardening expert – your kids’ paddling pool could cause £8k of damage if you’re making any of 3 common mistakes
PEOPLE all over the country will be blowing up their paddling pools ready for a sunny weekend.
And while they’re an easy, cost-effective way to keep the kids entertained during the warmer weather, there are some potential risks and pitfalls to be aware of.
In fact, the mistakes could actually end up costing you £7,781.
The first thing to be aware of is the algae build-up.
This can happen when the water is left in the pool, but emptying it daily can be time consuming and expensive – considering that USwitch reported last year that it would cost £11 to fill a standard-sized inflatable garden pool.
So instead of filling your pool daily, why not try “changing a portion of the water regularly” – a hack that could save you £1,331.
“This can help remove some of the algae and contaminants while conserving water,” Georgina Read, Director at Paving Superstore,
“Algae thrive in warm, sunny conditions, so try placing the pool in a partially shaded area or using a pool cover when not in use to help regulate the water temperature and minimise algae growth.
“You can also invest in a pool vacuum or cleaner to remove algae and debris daily.”
It’s also important to make sure that you drain your pool correctly once you’re done using it – especially if your garden has poor drainage.
And considering the average cost of laying turf in a UK garden ranging from £600 up to £6,250, you can’t afford to risk wrecking your lawn.
“When the soil becomes overly saturated, it can deprive the roots of oxygen, causing them to rot and die, also known as root rot,” Georgina added.
“This can lead to the deterioration of your lawn and other plants.
“Waterlogged soil also becomes compacted, making it difficult for roots to penetrate and access nutrients.
“This can stunt the growth of your lawn and other vegetation.”
Excessive water flow from draining the pool can lead to soil erosion and the exposure of plant roots.
Garden expert warnings on how to avoid making mistakes with your inflatable paddling pool
THERE are some commonly made mistakes with an inflatable paddling pool that could end up costing you thousands. We list them here so you can avoid making them this summer.
Algae build up
Last year, USwitch reported that it would cost £11 to fill a standard-sized inflatable garden pool.
According to recent MET Office data, June, July, August, and September have seen average mean maximum temperatures above 18 degrees Celsius—typical weather for Brits to enjoy their gardens.
Instead of filling your pool daily during this period, try Paving Superstore‘s Director Georgina Read’s hacks to save £1,331, including swapping out a portion of water daily.
Waterlogging and lawn damage
With the average UK garden being 255 square metres and the cost to lay turf ranging from £600 to £6,250, you don’t want to wreck your lawn this summer by draining your inflatable pool incorrectly.
So make sure you drain it carefully and responsibly.
Patio staining and discolouration
“The weight of the water in the pool can put pressure on the grout or cement used to hold paving stones or concrete slabs in place, potentially causing cracks or dislodging the materials over time,” Georgina explained,.
“Also, the chemicals used to treat the pool water, such as chlorine or algaecides, can potentially stain or discolour paved surfaces if not properly contained.”
Set it up on grass instead.
Chemical concerns
“High concentrations of chlorine or bleach can cause skin and eye irritation, rashes, and dryness, especially for children or those with sensitive skin, so it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and avoid overusing chemicals,” Georgina continued.
“I’d suggest using eco-friendly algaecides or pool clarifiers, like hydrogen peroxide or mineral sanitisers, to help control algae growth, but following manufacturer instructions is vital.”
Puncture risks
“Inflatable pools are susceptible to punctures and bursting, especially on rough or uneven surfaces,” she added.
“I’d advise setting them up on soft, grassy areas to minimise the risk of damage.
“Do a sweep of the area before you erect the pool to remove any stones and debris that could damage the exterior and lining of the pool.”
Drowning hazards
“While some inflatable pools may seem shallow, they still pose a drowning risk, particularly for young children and pets,” Georgina warned.
“It’s essential to supervise children at all times and consider covering the pool when not in use to minimise the risk.”
Electrical hazards
“Some inflatable pools have electric pumps, which can cause electrical faults if not correctly used and maintained,” Georgina said.
“Inspect cords regularly for damage and keep them away from water.
“You should also safely position pumps and electrical components away from the pool and inspect any electrical pumps regularly following manufacturer guidelines.”
Limited lifespan
“These temporary pools are not built to last and typically need to be replaced every one or two summers, adding to the overall cost and environmental impact,” Georgina said.
“This is why it’s essential to take proper care of it to maximise its lifespan and minimise waste.
“Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the pool, checking for leaks or punctures, and maintaining the proper chemical balance will all contribute to a longer lifespan.
“When not in use, carefully drain and dry the pool before storing it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and potential puncture hazards at the end of summer.”
Lastly, don’t set your pool up on the patio if you can help it, as paying out to clean even a small one will set you back between £150 and £200.
“The weight of the water in the pool can put pressure on the grout or cement used to hold paving stones or concrete slabs in place, potentially causing cracks or dislodging the materials over time,” Georgina said.
“Also, the chemicals used to treat the pool water, such as chlorine or algaecides, can potentially stain or discolour paved surfaces if not properly contained.”