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The Slip ‘N Slide: A Timeless Invention That Makes Summers Fun

by Jasmine
written by Jasmine

The Invention of the Slip ‘N Slide: A Backyard Classic

The Accidental Invention

In the summer of 1960, Robert Carrier’s 10-year-old son, Mike, and his friends were careening down their driveway on a slippery surface they had created by turning the hose on the painted concrete. Carrier, an upholsterer with a boat-manufacturing company, was inspired by his son’s antics and brought home a roll of Naugahyde, a vinyl-coated waterproof fabric. He unraveled the Naugahyde on the driveway and created a portable “aquatic play equipment” with an irrigating duct that could attach to a hose and release water along the length of the fabric, keeping it wet and slippery.

Wham-O’s Magical Waterslide

Carrier showed his invention to coworkers, and through a connection, it eventually made its way to Wham-O, a successful toy manufacturer. Wham-O saw the potential in Carrier’s design and released the “new amazing invention, the Wham-O Slip ‘N Slide Magic Waterslide” at the Toy Fair trade show in New York City in February 1961. By September of that year, more than 300,000 slides had been sold.

The Appeal of the Slip ‘N Slide

The Slip ‘N Slide quickly became a summer must-have, thanks to its accessibility and affordability. At $9.95, it was much cheaper than day passes for the family to the neighborhood pool. It also provided a fun and refreshing way to cool off during the hot summer months.

Evolution and Safety Concerns

Over the years, the Slip ‘N Slide has undergone several modifications to improve safety and enhance the user experience. The original design has been expanded to include options like double sliding lanes for racing and various inflatable add-ons. Package labeling now includes an age limit of 12, and the design features an inflatable pool-like reservoir at the end of the slide to prevent hard stops and flips that could cause injury.

Cultural Impact

The Slip ‘N Slide has become an iconic symbol of summer fun and childhood memories. It has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, and it continues to be a popular toy for kids of all ages.

Legacy of Innovation

Robert Carrier’s accidental invention has left a lasting legacy on the toy industry. The Slip ‘N Slide has brought joy to countless children over the years and has become a timeless classic. It serves as a testament to the power of simple yet innovative ideas that can capture the imagination and provide endless hours of entertainment.

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Home and Garden

Building an In-Ground Swimming Pool: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

by Keira
written by Keira

Building an In-Ground Swimming Pool: A Comprehensive Guide

Planning and Preparation

Building an in-ground swimming pool is a significant project that requires careful planning and preparation. The first step is to choose a reputable swimming pool contractor who can guide you through the process and ensure your pool meets your needs and budget.

Once you have selected a contractor, you will meet to discuss the type of pool you want, including its shape, size, and any desired features such as slides or waterfalls. The contractor will then draw up an estimate and help you obtain the necessary permits from your local building department.

Excavation and Infrastructure

The next step is to excavate the pit for the pool. This is typically done using a digger and dump truck. Once the pit is excavated, the contractor will install the plumbing, electrical, and gas lines necessary for the pool’s operation.

Structural Framework

To provide strength and support, an in-ground pool requires a steel skeleton known as rebar. The rebar framework is made up of vertical and horizontal bars that are tied together and anchored into the ground.

Concrete Application

Once the rebar framework is in place, concrete is applied using a process called shotcrete. Shotcrete is a high-velocity concrete that is sprayed onto the rebar, creating a strong and durable shell for the pool.

Finishing Touches

With the concrete structure complete, the pool is ready for its finishing touches. This includes installing tile and coping around the pool’s edge, as well as adding any desired water features or landscaping.

Pool Decking

The final step in building an in-ground swimming pool is to install the pool decking. There are several options available, including poured concrete, concrete pavers, and natural stone pavers. The choice of decking will depend on your budget and desired aesthetic.

Filling and Inspection

Once the decking is installed, the pool can be filled with water. This can take several days, depending on the size of the pool. Once the pool is full, it must be inspected by municipal officials to ensure it meets safety standards.

Enjoyment and Maintenance

With the inspection complete, your in-ground swimming pool is ready for use. To keep your pool in good condition, it is important to perform regular maintenance, including cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment inspections.

Additional Tips

  • Consider your budget and space limitations when planning your in-ground pool.
  • Choose a pool contractor with a good reputation and experience in building in-ground pools.
  • Obtain all necessary permits before starting construction.
  • Be prepared for the excavation and construction process to take several weeks or months.
  • Properly maintain your pool to ensure its longevity and safety.
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Home and Garden

21 Creative Pool Shade Ideas to Keep You Cool by the Water

by Zuzana
written by Zuzana

Pool Shade Ideas: Protect Yourself from the Sun While Enjoying Your Swim

Summer is the perfect time to cool off in your swimming pool, but being exposed to the sun for too long can be dangerous. That’s where pool shade ideas come in. By creating shade around your pool, you can protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays while still enjoying the water.

Here are 21 creative pool shade ideas to help you keep cool:

Plant Fast-Growing Trees and Shrubs

Planting trees and shrubs around your pool is a great way to create natural shade. Some fast-growing trees that are well-suited for poolside planting include arborvitae, which can grow up to 15 feet tall and provide dense shade. For a layered effect, plant a variety of shrubs in front of the trees.

Use Your House as Shade

If your pool is located near your house, you can use the house itself to create shade. Position the pool so that the shallow end is closest to the house, which will provide shade in the evening when the sun is at its strongest.

Add a Sunroom or Pool House

If your house is not close enough to the pool to provide adequate shade, consider adding a sunroom or pool house. These structures can be used for relaxing and entertaining, and they can also provide much-needed shade.

Add Patio Umbrellas and Shade Sails

Patio umbrellas and shade sails are a quick and easy way to add shade to your pool area. Umbrellas can be placed anywhere around the pool, while shade sails can be installed over the entire pool or just a portion of it.

Build a Pergola

A pergola is a great way to create a more permanent shade structure over your pool. Pergolas can be made from wood, metal, or vinyl, and they can be customized to fit any size or shape pool.

Create a Shaded Seating Area

Even if you don’t have a large budget, you can still create a shaded seating area near your pool. Simply add a few lounge chairs and an umbrella to an existing patio or deck.

Share the Shade

If you have a large patio umbrella, position it so that it provides shade for both the pool and a seating area. This will allow you to enjoy the shade while you’re swimming or relaxing by the pool.

Other Shade Ideas

In addition to the ideas listed above, here are a few other ways to create shade around your pool:

  • Install a privacy fence: A privacy fence can double as a shade source, and it can also help to create a more private and secluded pool area.

  • Fence the yard with plants: Instead of opting for a traditional privacy fence, consider growing a living privacy fence. As the trees or shrubs grow taller, your whole yard will benefit from more shade, including the pool area.

  • Add a retaining wall: A short retaining wall around your pool can provide patches of shade for swimmers who like to hang out right along the edges.

  • Plant a landscaping bed: Installing a landscaping bed along one edge of the pool is a beautiful way to add shade and privacy. Fill the bed with tall plants like cacti or herbaceous shrubs.

By following these tips, you can create a shady and comfortable pool area where you can enjoy the water without worrying about the sun.

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