This year’s Memorial Day Weekend Block party was a tremendous success, due in no small part to the generosity of Hampton Pool Company. We recently spoke with the duo behind the company—Mike Silvestri and Peter Persico—about pool safety, saltwater vs. freshwater pools, and what they like to do here in the East End.
Pete, we often see you with your family at the Children’s Museum. Do your children have a favorite exhibit or activity at CMEE?
Pete: It’s hard to choose just one. James loves to tumble around in what we affectionately refer to as the padded room, and has recently taken to the catch and release fishing exhibit. Both Leo and James have always loved to dress up as firefighters and climb into the life size fire truck, a dream come true. As Leo has grown, he has come to appreciate the mail system at the museum. Mailing, sorting, and delivering mail throughout the museum has helped explain why we always visit the Post Office, and how our countless handmade cards make their way to family near and far.
How did Hampton Pool Company get started and what are some of the services you provide?
Mike: Pete and I met in 2004 while we were both working for another pool company. After a few years of running their service department together, we started our own company in 2007. We offer seasonal openings and closing, weekly cleanings, equipment repairs and upgrades, and pretty much any renovation work for a gunite or vinyl pool.
If a family owns a pool and has very young children, what do you suggest to make sure they’re safe?
Pete: Obviously adult supervision is most important, but if you’re looking for an additional layer of safety, an automatic pool cover is a great product to add onto an existing pool. Mike and I both have one and it’s nice to have a little more peace of mind when it comes to the pool, both for your own kids on a daily basis and for friends and family if you entertain.
Chlorine or saltwater pools, do you have a recommendation?
Mike: Generally people who really like saltwater pools like the way their hair and skin and eyes feel compared to a swim in a traditional chlorine pool. If you’re having those types of issues with your chlorine pool, we definitely recommend salt.
What do you like to do on the East End with your families?
Pete: Mike and I both live in Wainscott and are big fans of Beach Lane, Goldberg’s, Breadzilla. My kids love listening to live music on Fridays at Wolffer Wine Stand, running around at Mashashimuet Park, visiting Ms. T at Bridgehampton Library, and biking and driving their power wheels around the neighborhood.