Sandy Answers Your FLEXNET DOME™ Questions!
Q: Why aren't the poles in the kit?
A: (Our most asked question.) This was one of the problems we thought about quite a bit at the beginning. All of the parts, as well as the Owner’s Manual that make up the FLEXNET DOME™, are included EXCEPT for the poles that are inexpensive PVC pipe. When we started, the shortest poles needed were 10'. While not particularly heavy, they created a huge shipping problem due to their size. As you may know, shipping costs are a significant part of our overhead, and can have quite an impact on the sale price. The shipping for large items increases quickly with size. When we compared the cost of shipping to the cost of having you buy them locally, there was no contest. And buying locally is really easy, with lots of outlets where you can get them. So to keep the price you pay at a reasonable level, we decided it was much more cost effective, for you and us, to have you purchase them locally.
Q: How hard is it to put the kit up?
A: It's really easy. I've done the small ones by myself. That was one of my goals (besides stopping the doggone bugs!) when I designed the system. As an engineer, I've found that the simplest solutions are almost always the best. The Owner’s Manual contains easy assembly instructions as well as a chart with all the requirements for the poles and links to your local hardware store for purchase. Two adults can assemble your FLEXNET DOME™ on your pool in under an hour because there are no bolts or screws.
Q: How does the dome do in the wind?
A: I was also concerned about that as in Starbuck, being not far from the huge Columbia River, we can get some pretty strong gusts. Within a couple of days of when I first put up my prototype we had gusts somewhere around 40 mph, maybe stronger. The system just bent over and flexed. When the wind quit, you'd never know there had been one. The net stood like it was installed and no bugs or crud were in the pool.
When installed per the Owner’s Manual, a 40 mph wind is no problem. The FLEXNET DOME™ releases most of the wind thru the net and flexibility of the poles. As you can see in the photos on the "Shop" page, the wind and sun go thru the net so you still have the outdoor experience. Worried about big storms? With no bolts or screws you can dismantle the FLEXNET DOME™ in 30 minutes, or if the storm isn’t too big just remove the net and replace after the storm.
Q: What about snow on the net?
A: Like wind, the net stands up to light snow loads with no problem, it will sag a bit but as the snow melts it pops back into position. That said, if you are expecting heavier snows, it's a good idea to take the net off until the storm passes. But I'm guessing most of you won't be using your pool much when the serious snows and cold start, so it would be a good idea to simply take the system off, about a 30 minute job, and store it for the winter.
Q: Can I still get sunburned or a tan through the net?
A: You sure can! Like all outdoor activities, especially for kids, use sunblock as though there is no net. We want everyone to have a good time in their pool, but be safe as well. For your tan, use your favorite tanning lotion and get that golden glow going along with your Vitamin D!
(Caution - excess sun is hard on your skin, and some may have serious problems with over exposure.)
