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Sep 28, 2023

BATTLE FOR THE SUN SHELF: The Top 5 in Pool Furniture Brands

Published on By In the past few years, sun shelves have gained popularity like

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In the past few years, sun shelves have gained popularity like never before; being incorporated in new pool designs and remodels alike. Also known as a Baja shelf and coined the "ledge" by in-pool furniture leader Ledge Lounger, these shallow water platforms are trending as a focal point for in-pool fun, relaxation, and style.

Because of this, there's been an influx of new in-pool and outdoor furniture brands entering the market. As life on the sun shelf becomes the standard, in-pool furniture manufacturers have beefed up their product offerings with new stylish options. In-pool chaise lounges, benches, bar stools, slides, tables, umbrellas, and more are now elevating the look and functionality of pools and outdoor spaces around the world.

With so much to choose from which is the right one for your pool? This article explores the top 5 in-pool furniture brands to help you select the best option for you or your customer. In no particular order, let's dive into it.

The newest manufacturer to enter the in-pool furniture category, Tenjam's roots originate in rotomolded school furniture. The manufacturer places a very heavy emphasis on comfort, functionality, and bold, retro designs. With decades of experience in rotomolded furniture fabrication, Tenjam is certainly earning its place on the market.

Some of their most popular pieces include the Shayz Pool Lounger, the Mibster Chair, the Moon Chair, and the Amped Side Table.

Simple and bold is what describes Tenjam's style. And rightfully so! Tenjam brings a very different and unique look to the sun shelf with a wide range of products that blend bright, bold colors with mid-century style.

Tenjam prides itself on providing comfort and functionality in every piece of furniture they design. For instance, their popular Shayz Lounger features an ergonomic, upright seated design with armrests and cup holders. They have also specially designed a counterweighted headrest pillow for the lounger to ensure comfort and ease of use, featuring a built in pocket for convenient storage of a wallet or cell phone.

The patented valve system makes filling the lounger a complete breeze. They also offer three different snap-in risers (4″, 8″, and 12″) which elevate the height of the chair, allowing use in 5 to 17 inches of water.

Many say that nothing beats a classic, and Ledge Lounger is certainly the classic choice for in-pool loungers and patio furniture on the US market. Before starting the company, their CEO was in fact a pool builder, giving him insight into what consumers are really looking for to complete their outdoor space.

The Ledge Lounger furniture line is extensive, consisting of self-sinking and leveling pool bar stools, classic in-pool loungers, patio chairs, patio tables, games, and even baby slides. Their most popular in-pool collection is the Signature Series. This includes loungers, chairs, barstools, and tables.

As the originator and influencer in the industry, Ledge Lounger is known for its iconic resort-style look. Clean, modern, and streamlined, their products are available in an array of colors with supporting cushions, pillows, and sunshade accessories. The Signature Series isn't Ledge Lounger's only in-pool collection. Their new, luxurious Autograph Collection includes the Autograph Pool Chaise, winner of the 2022 Good Design award! The lineup certainly boasts an alluring look, appealing to all sun lovers alike.

Ledge Lounger tends to offer a more reclined seating position in their products; perfect for sunbathing and relaxing in shallow water. Seat shades, pillows, and cushions are nice add-on accessories to further enhance one's ledge experience.

Their in-pool furniture features a threaded plug system where a plug is removed, and the furniture is filled with pool water to submerge itself and stay in place. The product lineup allows use in water depths from 9″ – 20″ depending on the chair or lounger selected. Risers are also available.

Floating Luxuries offers a very simple yet powerful lineup. Available in a beautiful, classic white color, this manufacturer offers the perfect hybrid of style, comfort, and functionality. The Kai series offers a shallow and deep-water lounger, a side table, and a commercial-grade fiberglass umbrella for arguably one of the most comfortable, yet fashionable complete sun shelf sets on the market.

Their popular products include the Kai Shelf Lounger, Kai Shelf Lounger – Deep, Kai Side Table, and the Kai Luxury Umbrella to complete any outdoor paradise!

Fashion and comfort are the cornerstones of Floating Luxuries’ Design. The collection is reminiscent of iconic, resort-style in-pool furniture looks but has certainly brought its own personal touches to make them stand out.

Compared to other loungers on the market, Floating Luxuries produces oversized loungers, that sit in a more upright, forward-facing position, making them comfortable for people of all shapes and sizes. All Kai loungers have been ergonomically designed with long-term lounging in mind.

The furniture utilizes top-fill and bottom-drain ports. This allows simple filling with a garden hose to keep them securely in place. Air vents at the knee allow uninterrupted fills, while the cup and phone holders are a customer favorite.

Floating Luxuries has an extensive product offering that includes pillows, pool noodles, pool floats, and a floating drink caddy to give their customers everything they need for a fun pool day in the sun.

Imported from Spain, Vondom brings true high-fashion pool and outdoor furniture to the US market. Their ultra-modern, contemporary furniture is designed by world-renowned designers, bringing you more than just pool and outdoor patio furniture, but elevating your pool and outdoor space with stunning works of art.

Their most sought-after pieces include the Ibiza Sun Lounger, the Faz Sun Bed, the Jut Sun Chaise, and the Surf Sun Chaise. All of which offer sleek, modern designs and comfortable functionality.

Commercially rated, and available in rotomolded and non-rotomolded designs, this furniture line is made from polypropylene-reinforced fiberglass, making it sturdy and long-lasting. Vondom is famous for its high-fashion European designs that add a unique flare to any space. From LED-lit daybeds to comfortable contemporary loungers, they bring art and design to any outdoor area.

Vondom is dedicated to the environment and in an effort to reduce pollution has created the Vondom Revolution line of in-pool and outdoor furniture. Manufactured using recycled polypropylene materials like plastics from fishnets and waste collected from our oceans, this eco-friendly initiative sets the example for other brands to practice sustainable product development, which is critical to achieving a better quality of life for all.

If you’re looking for in-pool furniture but you’re a fan of classic style and a modern-looking lounger just won't do, then look no further than SR Smith! They offer comfortable and unique in-pool furniture in a timeless style.

The Destination Lounger and the Destination Rocking Chair are popular, non-rotomolded (not hollow) products that distinguish this brand from the rest. They feature a self-filling ballast system which means there are no fill ports; you’ll enjoy the easy setup!

The Destination Rocking Chair is the only in-pool rocking chair available on the market. Who says rocking chairs can only be used on porches? Now you can enjoy the comfort and old-world style while you relax in refreshing pool water on a hot summer day. You really can't beat that!

Moreover, their products are available in 9 color options and are UV protected to ensure longevity. Plus, they’re safe for all pool types including vinyl!

Apart from Vondom, which is manufactured and imported from Spain, all the above-mentioned brands are manufactured in the USA from commercial grade, UV-resistant, chemical-resistant plastics, and resins. They are safe for all pool surfaces including plaster, vinyl liners, and tiled surfaces.

It is estimated that over 90% of new pools are being designed with a sun shelf. From sun lovers looking to enjoy their day in the pool to growing families with children, this pool design trend has skyrocketed as it offers a versatile living space.

With so many different applications and personal styles, there is no wonder why manufacturers are carving out their own piece of the sun shelf market share.

Some of the manufacturers listed in this article have online stores and may also be found on Amazon at full retail pricing. It's important to note that some third-party vendors are manufacturing inferior look-alike products. It's always best to read customer reviews and buy from a trusted source.

In some cases, builders and contractors may even be able to open dealer accounts with reputable vendors. But, with so many options wouldn't it be great to access all brands from a single source while enjoying the very best in customer service and preferred pricing?

If the answer is yes, then we at AquaBlu invite all trades to join our AquaPRO Trade Network.

AquaBlu Mosaics isn't just tile… As a leading supplier of pool tile and outdoor accessories, AquaBlu is now proudly the #1 destination for In Pool Furniture. Give us a call today for help getting your or your customer's outdoor furniture set today!

Movable Floors Are Taking Flexibility Of Indoor And Outdoor Living To A Whole New Level

Cristi Oramas is a media designer and copywriter. Her work has been featured in multiple online and print magazines. She has over two years experience in the pool industry creating media assets, writing blogs, and educational articles. For guest postings and other business inquiries, contact her directly

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Recently a video of Tieleman Pool Technology went absolutely viral with over 13 million views on Pool Magazine's TikTok and over 14 million views on Tieleman's Instagram account. The video showed a residential movable floor of 8.80 x 5.65m (28.87 x 18.54ft) in an indoor pool located in the United Kingdom. "We know we are engineering and installing a unique product that we felt would amaze many people, but we never imagined it would blow up like this," says Marijn, Project Manager of the Netherlands-based manufacturer Tieleman Pool Technology.

A post shared by Tieleman | Movable pool floors (@tielemanpooltechnology)

Just one of the many comments given to the video of the movable floor. Of course, going viral with a video like this will lead to getting countless questions. Questions such as where does the water go when you lower the floor, what system is beneath the movable floor deck and much more. Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions answered.

The movable floor is a safe and rigid floating platform controlled by means of a push button, touch screen or a mobile device. When you push the button to lower the floor, the water hydraulic cylinder pulls the movable floor underwater. When the floor is moved, the water will gently flow through the small gap between the floor and the pool wall (so the water always remains in the pool). Within about five minutes your swimming hall, patio or living space is transformed into a full-size swimming pool.

When you want to raise the floor to a higher position, the cylinder pressure is released in a controlled way and the floor will rise automatically as a result of the upward pressure caused by the integrated buoyancy.

The bearing capacity of a movable floor starts at a minimum of 100kg per m2 (220lbs per 10.76 ft2). This makes the safe floor deck in a closed position extremely suitable to serve as a patio, party venue or extension of the indoor/outdoor living space.

A hatch is made in the construction of the movable floor, the tile located above the hatch can be removed. This allows Tieleman's service technicians (who are A-1 certified divers) to dive under the movable floor. This way they can easily vacuum the bottom of the pool and inspect and maintain the movable floor system properly.

If your question is not answered here you should definitely check Tieleman's FAQ page to learn more about the fundamentals of a movable floor.

A movable floor, as it might suggest, is a product that belongs in the category of ultimate luxury. While the videos are becoming increasingly popular on social media, and homeowners might be wondering if they can have one of their own; this is still a pool feature reserved for the elite. This is not surprising when you consider the level of engineering and high quality materials it takes to manufacture and install this kind of product.

You might not be expecting it, but the product has actually been on the market for quite a long time. For example, Tieleman Pool Technology has been developing customized pool solutions since 1970. To this day, the movable floor has been especially common for hydrotherapy purposes in medical institutions such as rehabilitation clinics, healthcare facilities and hospitals. In order to achieve optimal results with hydrotherapy, variation in depth is the key factor for success. To meet this specific need of the medical sector, the movable floor was developed back in the days.

Over the years, the product has evolved into a state-of-the-art pool solution that is not only suitable for medical institutions, but has also made its way into the public and residential market. Technology has been highly improved and there are countless add-on options for movable floors nowadays. These include integrated stairs (corner stairs, full width stairs and more), integrated sun decks/lounge areas and swim-out benches.

There are, of course, plenty of DIY videos of movable floors and other pool solutions. But what should a proper movable floor consist of if it wants to guarantee quality, a long lifespan and low maintenance?

First of all the construction beneath the floor deck must be resistant to corrosion and chlorides. That is why the unique Tieleman movable floor system, in contrast to others, consists of a Marine grade 316L stainless steel construction. For applications with highly corrosive environments, such as swimming pools, Marine grade 316L stainless steel is far superior and will have an extended lifespan compared with 304 grade. This is because Marine grade 316L stainless steel contains high levels of nickel, chromium and molybdenum. The molybdenum is added to protect the stainless steel from the elements such as chlorine and increases corrosion resistance, making this type of steel extremely suitable for use in swimming pools.

Secondly, no oil contamination of the pool can take place. Therefore the unique Tieleman system is powered by a water hydraulic cylinder. This technology eliminates the risk of (oil) contamination to the pool. And last but not least, Tieleman offers excellent service. At Tieleman, we can proudly state that we have been the preferred service provider for decades for our client base. With over 50 years of expertise in all areas of pool technology, Tieleman is your best choice to service your movable floor, says Koen, Marketing & Communications manager at Tieleman.

All the above makes a Tieleman movable floor an extremely durable system with a lifespan of up to 25-30 years.

The most interesting part for pool builders is that a movable floor not only ensures ultimate safety, it also provides the versatility to create unique pool environments that are multi-use spaces. For example, you can use the floor deck (in a closed position) as a basketball court or even a party venue. This is perhaps the most appealing aspect for pool builders.

Since companies that manufacture, install and maintain movable floors generally do not build the pool itself, this offers excellent business opportunities for pool builders and others. For example the construction of the pool, the water treatment and the tiling of the movable floor needs to be done by a (local) contractor or pool builder. This is most definitely the right time for high-end pool builders, architects and contractors to make their move by partnering with a movable floor builder like Tieleman.

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Picture yourself in a state of pure relaxation, gently swaying on a floating oasis, completely immersed in the soothing embrace of water. With the Laze Hammock by Ledge Lounger, this dream becomes a reality. This remarkable hammock-style luxury pool float is designed to redefine your leisure experiences, whether at the poolside, on a boat trip, or during a beach vacation. The exceptional features of the Laze Hammock make it the epitome of mobile comfort and convenience.

The Laze Hammock offers a premium submerged lounging experience far more luxurious than a typical pool float or conventional loungers. Comprised of two buoyant pillows connected by a fabric sling, this hammock is ingeniously designed to offer maximum comfort and support. Its buoyant foam bead filling allows you to effortlessly float on the water's surface.

Available in a wide array of captivating colors, you can choose the one that perfectly complements your outdoor oasis.

Ledge Lounger fully understands the demands of various aquatic environments, and the Laze Hammock certainly rises to the occasion. Made with fade-resistant marine-grade fabrics, this pool float retains its vibrant colors, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight and pool chemicals.

Whether you prefer the chlorinated waters of a pool or the salty embrace of the sea, the Laze Hammock is up to the challenge. Its mold and mildew-resistant foam beads ensure a long-lasting, hygienic lounging experience.

Unlike cumbersome inflatables or loungers with complicated assembly instructions, the Laze Hammock arrives pre-filled with buoyant foam beads, ready to elevate your relaxation experience from the moment you unfold it. Its hassle-free design allows you to effortlessly roll it up and secure it with the built-in carrying strap. This convenient feature enables you to take your Laze Hammock on the go, whether it's a spontaneous trip to the pool, a boat excursion, or a beach getaway. Simply grab it and indulge in the ultimate relaxation wherever there's water.

Get to know Aiper's 2023 Robotic Pool Cleaners

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When it comes to pool maintenance, Aiper has been making waves in the industry with their line of robotic pool cleaners. Consumers have been impressed by the technology and quality, and let's face it, the price point. With a rapidly increasing base of customers, they have fast become a trusted brand with pool owners. We got to take a sneak peek of their new products earlier this year at the International Pool Spa Patio Expo in Las Vegas and then caught up again with them at CES. On both occasions, there was a line in front of their booth of folks waiting to see the latest products.

With their 2023 lineup of pool cleaners, Aiper continues to impress pool owners and professionals alike with cutting-edge technology and superior cleaning performance. We’ll take a look at what's new and delve into the exciting features of Aiper's 2023 products Seagull SE and Seagull Plus, as well as the Elite Pro and the Seagull Pro.

Let's start with the Seagull SE. This cleaner really is an above-ground pool owner's dream as it does quite a lot at a very attractive price point, consequently, it's become one of the best-selling above-ground cleaners on Amazon and is highly rated by consumers with 4/5 stars.

This cordless robotic pool cleaner eliminates the hassle of messy hoses and tangled cords. With a simple power-on and submerge, the Seagull SE automatically begins its cleaning process, giving you a hands-free experience. The increased battery life is a significant improvement, taking only 2.5 hours to fully charge and providing over 90 minutes of continuous cleaning.

The Seagull SE is ideal for above-ground pools or small in-ground with flat floors. Powerful dual-drive motors ensure a thorough cleaning by effortlessly tracking down and collecting various types of dirt and debris.

The self-parking feature brings an added touch of convenience as the cleaner automatically stops near the edge of your pool when the battery is low or the cleaning cycle is complete. With its LED indicator, you can easily keep track of the cleaner's status. The Seagull SE truly lets your robot do the dirty work, giving you back your weekends to enjoy your pool.

Next up, the Seagull Plus takes cleaning performance to the next level. This cordless pool vacuum boasts stronger power suction and an extended cleaning time of 110 minutes. Equipped with powerful dual-drive motors, the Seagull Plus effortlessly tackles all types of debris, from dirt to stones, providing you with a pristine pool.

The cordless design ensures easy setup with one-click activation, making it a hassle-free experience. With its longer battery life, the Seagull Plus is perfect for larger round above-ground pools or in-ground flat-floored pools.

Additionally, the sophisticated water release system drains the cleaner in seconds, allowing for easy retrieval and portability. The LED indicator keeps you informed about the cleaner's status, ensuring a worry-free cleaning experience. Let the Seagull Plus do the dirty work while you enjoy your free time.

For those looking to venture into the wall climber market, Aiper introduces the Elite Pro. This cordless robotic pool cleaner is designed to tackle not only the pool floor but also the pool walls, making it suitable for all pool types, including above ground and in-ground pools of any shape. With its dual motor system and large inlet, the Elite Pro excels in collecting and filtering more dirt and debris, saving you time and leaving you with a crystal-clear pool.

Despite its remarkable cleaning capabilities, the Elite Pro weighs only 10 pounds, making it ultra-portable and easy to handle. The quick water release feature ensures effortless storage. Fast charging and improved battery life are additional benefits, with a full charge taking only 2-2.5 hours and providing up to 120 minutes of cleaning time.

When the battery is low, the Elite Pro's self-parking ability automatically brings it near the pool's edge for easy retrieval. Coupled with a 2-year warranty and worry-free customer service, the Elite Pro is a great addition to Aiper's lineup.

Lastly, we have the Seagull Pro, Aiper's most advanced pool cleaner to date. This cordless robotic pool cleaner is a powerhouse that rivals more sophisticated wall climbers like the Polaris 9450 and the Dolphin Nautilus CC. Featuring the world's first quad-motor system and WavePath Navigation Technology, the Seagull Pro delivers maximum efficiency at a minimal cost.

With its four-wheel drive system, the Seagull Pro effortlessly climbs pool walls and effectively scrubs the waterline, providing a comprehensive cleaning experience. The quad-motor system utilizes up to 200W of power to filter 130 gallons of water per minute, ensuring superior suction and trapping even the smallest debris, from leaves to dirt, pebbles, and sticks. The Seagull Pro's cleaning modes allow you to target specific trouble spots in your pool, ensuring a thorough clean every time.

One of the standout features of the Seagull Pro is its WavePath Navigation, which enables the pool vacuum to work under a fixed pattern, unlike traditional random patterns. This advanced navigation system maximizes pool coverage while minimizing energy consumption, making it 10 times more energy-efficient compared to other pool cleaners. The cordless design eliminates the hassle of tangled cords and complicated accessories. Simply drop the Seagull Pro into the pool, and it will take care of the cleaning while you enjoy your leisure time.

With an impressive runtime of up to 180 minutes, the Seagull Pro offers 60% longer battery life compared to other pool cleaners. Thanks to the improved battery system, the built-in 9000mAh battery powers the Seagull Pro for extended cleaning sessions. And with a shortened charging time of just 90 minutes, you can get back to enjoying your pool sooner.

The Seagull Pro is designed to handle pools of all shapes, including in-ground and above-ground pools, and can clean pools up to 3200 square feet in size. Its versatility and power make it an ideal choice for pool owners seeking a high-performance pool cleaner that can tackle even the most challenging cleaning tasks.

Yes, there's plenty to be excited about and with this fresh lineup of products. Aiper has underscored that they plan to continue to refine and improve upon their product line.

As you gear up for the summer season, we hope this look at Aiper's 2023 lineup of pool cleaners has helped better educate you about their latest products and has given you some insights into the exciting features and capabilities of these innovative products. Get ready to make the most of your pool and have an Aiper cleaner do the hard work for you.

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