Category: Pound Pool Plastering - page 4

Pool Cover Options

If you have a pool, you’ll need to cover it for winter, but how do you choose between options? Solid covers are slightly more expensive than their mesh counterparts since they are more secure. Solar covers or water bag covers are also viable options. Read on to learn more about the differences between pool covers.

Solid Covers
Almost completely airtight, these hefty covers will prevent debris, dirt, water, and sunlight from getting into the pool. Algae and other tiny microorganisms can thrive in pools during the fall and winter months. Solid covers prevent sunlight from entering; therefore, these organisms cannot grow. Cover pumps are required in this case, which will remove excess water (and melted snow) from the surface. Moreover, these covers inhibit pets, wildlife, or children from entering the pool. Solid covers can also be automatic, activating them by a flip of a switch. Low-profile aluminum covers can be mounted on the side of your pool with an inconspicuous lid above it.

Mesh Covers
These covers are best for heavy winter snowfall, as they are permeable. Melting snow, ice, and rain can percolate through the cover, preventing water accumulation on the surface. Smaller debris can still seep through the cover but can be removed with a pool vacuum in the spring. These covers are less expensive and lightweight, which makes installation a breeze.

Water Covers
If you’re undecided between a solid or mesh cover, a water cover might be a decent alternative. Filled with long water tubes or small bubbles, these covers are placed around the pool’s edge to ensure the water is kept in place. They are available in either mesh or solid material.

No matter which pool cover you choose, ensure you maintain it during the off-season by draining when necessary, checking the tension, and adjusting the fit.

Leaf nets can be used in either case to catch larger debris (leaves) before it collects on the cover. Especially in areas with a large number of trees, leaf nets are essential to ensure an easy cleaning process in the spring. Leaves are not terribly heavy, so these nets are straightforward and require minimal effort to remove.

Winter covers can save pool owners money in the spring. Choose carefully before deciding what will best meet your needs.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Five Ways to Extend Pool Season

Summer has almost come to an end, and with that, pool season is winding down as fall looms ahead. You can easily extend your pool time by adding a gas heater, heat pump, or solar heater. Instead of closing your pool as soon as the temperatures drop, check out these ten tips for keeping your swimming water warm(er) through autumn.

  1. Solar Cover: The most effortless and cost-efficient way to extend your pool season well into spring and fall is to add a solar cover. By retaining warmth during the night and heating up during the day, these are effective for both inground and above-ground pools. Moreover, pool covers save owners money by decreasing the amount of evaporation coming from the surface. As much as 90 percent of evaporation is reduced, which means pool owners don’t have to waste time filling up the pool. Also, pool covers catch debris that would otherwise litter the water surface and create more work for you or your filter. Solar cover reels are also a must; they roll up the cover neatly and save pool owners the hassle of rolling and storing.
  2. Solar Sun Rings: Roughly 60 inches in diameter, these rings are coated with UV-resistant vinyl and rest gently on the pool’s surface. They heat the water and retain nighttime warmth. Since they don’t cover the entire pool, they aren’t as energy and debris efficient as a solar cover, but they are easy to maneuver and often come in attractive designs.
  3. Gas Heater: A propane or natural gas heater is the most powerful way to extend pool season. These are designed to increase pool temperature by about 30 degrees Fahrenheit or more.
  4. Heat Pumps: By gathering warm air around the pool, compressing it, and recycling it throughout the pool, these pumps are designed for sunny climates. They are less expensive than gas heaters, are easy to use, and are affordable. The only downside is they do not work in environments where the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Solar Heaters: Another product designed for use in sunny areas, solar heaters can increase a pools temperature by about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, these are meant to be used in areas where the sun is prevalent, even on chilly days. These heaters can be installed on a roof, fence, or wall and will absorb sunlight, turning it into heat within the pool.

Want to extend your pool season? It might be time for a renovation; call the experts at Pound Pool Plastering to learn how we can provide you with a top-of-the-line pool.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Safely Reducing Chlorine in Your Pool

Pool owners want to maximize their chlorine efficiently and use less of the chemical for many reasons, some of which include money, lowering chloramine contact, reducing dependence, and more. Additionally, an ongoing chlorine supply shortage has forced many unsuspecting pool owners to stretch out their current chlorine supply as long as possible.

Routine Pool Care

  • Water Balance: keep your pool water at a steady 7.4 – 7.6 pH to extend the efficacy of chlorine. Lower pH levels can cause Free Available Chlorine (FAC) levels to disperse, while higher pH water will render the sanitizer futile. Total Alkalinity (TA) levels are imperative to monitor as well; they should stay between 80 to 120 ppm. The ideal range for Calcium Hardness varies from 200 to 400 ppm. Cyanuric Acid (CA) acts as a stabilizer and should also be tested. This chemical protects chlorine from being broken down in the sun. The CA level should stay at 30 to 50 ppm.
  • Pool cleaning: keep your water pristine and ensure no debris collects on the surface. Organic contaminants such as plant debris, sweat, body oils, cosmetics, germs, algae, animal waste, insects, etc., can absorb chlorine in your pool, reducing its lifetime. Also brush, skim, and vacuum your pool regularly. Ensure your filtration system is running properly, clean the pool filter, and shock or oxidize weekly.

Solar Covers

  • These simple pool accessories can increase pool temperature, energy retention, water conservation, reduce debris, and save you money when it comes to chemical use. Evaporation is reduced by up to 90 percent as well. A powerful tool against chlorine burn-off and chemical evaporation, solar covers have been shown to reduce total pool chemical use by 30 to 60 percent.

Alternative Sanitizers

  • Mineral systems: Also known as ionization systems, these work to reduce chlorine use by adding copper and silver ions to the water, acting as a sanitizer. Some of these systems have proven to reduce chlorine use by up to 50 percent.
  • Saltwater: Using the process of electrolysis, salt is converted into a steady stream of Free Available Chlorine. After the chlorine is used, it returns to salt, and the process repeats itself.
  • Ozone & UV: Natural sanitation solutions, these quickly and effectively neutralize organic or living contaminants such as bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms. They can reduce chlorine use by up to 50 to 90 percent.
  • Bromine: A popular sanitizer for indoor pools, spas, and hot tubs, this chemical can be higher-priced than chlorine but is much more stable in warm temperatures.
  • Biguanide: This pool sanitation chemical destroys microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. It’s more expensive than chlorine and has a strong odor but is more gentle on skin, swimming suits, and vinyl liners.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

How to Cool Your Pool During Summer

In the sweltering summer sun, pool water can reach temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit or above. While a pool can be a cool respite from the heat, hot swimming water (similar to a hot tub) is undesirable for most people. Thankfully, there are several quick-and-easy ways to lower your pool temperature this summer. Read on to discover some suggestions below.

Aerators
Cheap and easy, these attachments plug or screw into the side of your pool. They work by using return water from the pump to spray a fountain of water back into the pool. These tiny droplets of water have air in them as they are sprayed, allowing heat to escape more quickly by evaporation. If your pool temperature is at 94 degrees Fahrenheit, for example, you can expect it to decrease to roughly 90 degrees Fahrenheit with an aerator installed.

Fountain and Waterfall
Similar in concept to an aerator, these water features lower temperature by increasing air bubbles, thus encouraging evaporation. Decorative in appearance, these can also increase the value of your pool area by a few notches by improving the overall aesthetic.

Evening Pump
Running the pump at night will amplify the effects of aerators and fountains. The cooler temperature drop in the air will help to lower the water temperature more efficiently when the sun isn’t working against you. Even without an aerator or fountain, running the pool pump overnight will help circulate the water and release some heat into the cool evening air.

Solar Panels
While these are primarily purchased to heat a pool, they can also be used to cool water temperatures. Instead of letting water pass through the panels during the daytime, use them while running the pump at night to take advantage of the lower temperatures. Solar panels can be used in addition to other methods listed to further enhance cooling effects.

Pool Coolers
These dedicated “air conditioners” for your pool transfer heat with help from fans and refrigerants. Once cooled, the water is then pumped back into the pool. Most pools change between 10 to 15 degrees after a pool cooler is used. Temperature controls are useful to find the perfect comfort level.

Shade
A tried-and-true method of staying cool and out of the sun, shading a pool typically involves tall trees. Unfortunately, those trees are also associated with extra cleaning issues such as tree debris (leaves, pollen, etc.) that might fall into the water. Other options for shade include canopies or another physical structure that provides shade over the pool.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.


Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems:
www.cpsmi.com.

Why You Should Enforce Pool Safety This Swim Season

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), roughly ten people die from drowning every day in the United States (not including boating accidents.) Water safety should be top of mind if you own – or are around – a pool this summer to avoid drowning disasters.

The Pool Safely campaign encourages people to follow six steps to remain safe in or near water. The steps include:

  1. Never leave a child unattended in or near water
  2. Teach children how to swim
  3. Teach children to stay away from drains
  4. Ensure all pools have compliant drain covers
  5. Install proper barriers, alarms, and covers
  6. Know how to perform CPR

Over 75,000 adults and kids have signed the Pool Safely Pledge. Take the Pledge and get a free Pool Safely Toolkit. The USA Swimming Foundation reported almost 90 children younger than the age of 15 drowned in a pool or spa from January through May 2018.

  • Every year roughly 19 children drown during the 4th of July holiday
  • 74 percent of drowning incidents occurred in residential locations
  • 351 children younger than 15 died in pools and spas during 2015
  • Emergency departments treat around 6,400 pool and spa injuries in children younger than 15 every year

To avoid accidental drowning, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Don’t go near water unless you know how to swim
  • Never swim alone
  • Learn CPR
  • Stay calm if caught in a current or swim parallel to shore
  • Swim with lifeguard supervision
  • Don’t roughhouse in pools
  • No diving in unfamiliar areas
  • Avoid alcohol as it is involved in about half of all male teen drownings
  • Wear life jackets to ensure water safety

Call the pool renovation experts at Pound Pool Plastering today to make sure your pool is ready to go this swim season.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Everything You Need to Know about Pool Remodeling

It’s almost pool season! If you’re hoping to remodel this spring or fall, here’s what to expect. Pool contractors commonly map out their estimated start and completion dates to organize schedules and manage expectations. Read on to review a general timetable for the pool remodeling process.

Draining
A pump is placed in the bottom of the pool attached to a hose leading out to the street. Depending on the size of your pool, the draining process can take anywhere between six to 12 hours. A loud “slurping” sound might erupt when the pool is totally drained. In this case, unplug the pump from the outlet.

Chipping
The pool’s old surface is removed, primed, and tiled if the owner requested it. Getting the pool prepped correctly is imperative to the job. This process takes roughly four to six hours, depending on the crew.

Tiling
Typically, homeowners select the tile they would like in their pool. After finalizing the homeowner’s selection, the tiles are laid, grouted, and set. The entire process takes roughly a day or two, depending on the pool size. If a plaster finish has been requested, the tile trims are added on the last day.

Surfacing
Pebble and plaster are mixed to the correct consistency and then pumped into the swimming pool using large hoses. The hand-troweling application takes roughly four to six hours.

Pebbling
An acid wash over the pool surface ensures the pebble application is complete. After this step, which only takes a couple of hours, the filling process can begin.

Watering
Water is added to the pool once the pebble acid wash and plaster are in place. The water must reach halfway up the tile line (or skimmer opening) before the water is turned off. If the water flow is stopped before the pool is entirely full, water lines will form on the inside of the pool. The owner should ensure the tap is left open until the pool is filled. This takes between 12 to 48 hours.

Balancing
Depending on whether the pool is plaster or pebble, it will take either a few hours or a few days to complete this chemical-balancing step. Plaster is more sensitive, which means the owner will need to monitor the water’s pH level to ensure it remains acidic.

Looking to get your pool remodeled? Contact the experts at Pound Pool Plastering today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Robotic Pool Cleaners & Ten Features to Look For

You might think robotic pool cleaners are a thing of the future, but actually, they have been around for quite a while. These powerful little machines suck up small and large debris. They don’t attach to your pool circulation system or rely on your pool filter; rather, they run on electricity by themselves.

Robotic pool cleaners navigate through the pool, scrubbing walls and floors with tiny brushes. They vacuum everything from small insects to acorns. Some models can even clean the waterline around the pool.  A built-in bag/cartridge holds debris. Since they filter and clean the water, pool robots are considered a secondary pool filter. As water is sucked in, debris is collected in a filter that removes up to two microns for a superiorly clean pool.

Running on low voltage, robotic pool cleaners are submersible. They have extremely long power cords that should only be plugged into Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets, which automatically shut off if any electrical imbalance is detected. Certain models are double insulated, meaning they are designed to work safely without the grounding prong. To ensure you don’t get shocked, only use GFCI outlets around water sources.

So, what features should you look for if you are in the market for a robotic pool cleaner? Here are ten suggestions:

Weight: Make sure you can lift it in-and-out of the pool with ease.

Tires: Wide rubber tires and four-wheel drive capabilities help the robot traverse over bumps.

Cord: Since cords can easily tangle, make sure it’s a swivel cord to enable proper movement.

Brushes: Seek robots with hard-bristle brushes or multiple rotating brushes that can scrub well.

Timer: Programmable timers are a breeze – set it and forget it.

Terrain: Ensure the robotic pool cleaner can climb the sides, waterline, or stairs with ease.

Sensors: Deflecting features help prevent the robot from getting stuck in a corner or on obstacles.

Efficiency: Cleaning cycles should be moderate, and multiple cycle options are ideal.

Durability: Read the warranty before using your cleaner, so you know what to do if it fails.

Energy: Try to avoid models that use more than 1,000 watts per hour as they can be expensive to operate over time.

For all of your pool renovation needs, contact the experts at Pound Pool Plastering today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Four Natural Landscaping Stones

When planning your dream pool, it’s imperative to take size, aesthetics, and practicalities into account. What is your primary purpose of the pool? How much space will you need surrounding the water? How will you access it? These are just a few common questions one should ask and consider when preparing to build a pool.

Regardless of your overall pool design, pavers are a powerful aspect of your aesthetics, as they showcase a certain beauty, finish, and durability to stand up to weather conditions. Paver colors should not clash; instead, they should complement the pool’s interior. Consider all other features of your pool and ensure the colors pair well with each other. Your pool should seamlessly blend in with the pavers, landscaping, house exterior materials, and surrounding pool extras such as chairs.

Undoubtedly, pavers surrounding a pool will be heavily trekked on; therefore, it’s a no-brainer that they should be durable. Keep in mind they will have chlorine or saltwater splashed on them regularly, so remember to choose stones that won’t erode easily. Leaves and other elements (such as fruit from trees or fecal matter from animals) will also find their way on the pavers. Pool chemicals, sunscreen, juice, wine, etc., will probably also be accidentally spilled. Ensure you choose pavers that can withstand those circumstances and stand the test of time through weather patterns such as extreme sun, rain, snow, and wind.

Having slippery pavers is dangerous and can be hazardous to your family and guests. While choosing pavers for your pool, make sure the non-slip rating is high: aim for P4 or P5.

Marble: This beautiful, light-colored stone has many advantages and is relatively popular. Marble is hard and will last for years. Heat is no match for marble; it is ideal for smoldering summers.

Limestone: Regardless of the conditions, limestone is a fairly solid bet. Its earthy color makes it suitable for an outdoor environment. Heavy foot traffic is no match for this tough stone; it’s also available in various colors and textures, making it a popular choice.

Bluestone: Hard and dense; this is also known as basalt. Naturally salt-resistant, bluestone is a practical option for pool paving. It’s durable and versatile – and available in a variety of shapes, styles, and colors.

Granite: Naturally non-slip, this stone is ideal for pools. It’s elegant, contemporary, and extremely dense. Granite is a popular choice as it has a speckled finish, so it can easily disguise stains. It’s also low-porous, which means you can hose it down easily.

Need help deciding which natural stone best suits your needs? Contact the experts at Pound Pool Plastering today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Pool Building: A Timeline

Designing a pool takes roughly eight to twelve weeks on average. Winter will turn to spring before we know it; by then, it will be a primetime season for pool building. If you are planning on having a pool built, it’s best to start that process now. But just how does it all work? Read on for the details.

Design: 1 to 4 weeks
Whether you already had a pool or want to build something brand-new and fresh, it’s a good idea to meet with a pool designer to review your overall vision. With innovations in 3D modeling technology, your dream backyard pool will be a reality in no time.

Permits: 2 to 6 weeks
Most cities, townships, and counties require residential building permits before construction can begin on an inground pool. Permits are meant to communicate that you are building safely and legally. Neighbors, city officials, and local professionals can rest assured the project is being completed according to the law. It can take one to six weeks to process forms, wait times, and gain permit approval.

Excavation: 1 week
Access to the dig site can be restricted by utility lines or other challenges. The overall digging process, once cleared, will only take one or two days. During busier seasons, pool excavators might be backed up with other customers who scheduled before you. Even more reason why you should start planning sooner than later.

Rough materials: 1- 2 weeks
The steel, plumbing, and electrical will all need to be routed to accommodate your design. Your lighting, water features, spas, and overall system will need to be considered. Depending on the size and complexity of the pool, these materials are essential for the overall aesthetic.

Pool interior: 1 to 3 weeks
Vinyl, fiberglass, gunite, diamond brite, etc., are vital aspects of the pool’s interior. Crews might need to be scheduled for installation and plastering. After everything is set, it might take some time for the materials to cure.

Landscaping: 1 to 4 weeks
Decks, landscaping, and other custom features consisting of water or lighting can take a couple of weeks to finalize. Depending on the number of features you are looking to add, the process can be shorter or longer.

Looking to remodel or refresh your pool? Contact the professionals at Pound Pool Plastering today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Winter Pool Maintenance

Maintaining your pool during the winter is important so that you may gain the full enjoyment of its pleasures during the peak-season. Taking care of your pool throughout the off-season will not only save you money but prevents any damage due to freezing temperatures or contaminated water. Preserve your investment and protect your swimming pool from winter damage. After properly winterizing your pool, make these steps part of your routine to keep it in tip-top shape.

Pool covers are necessary to protect them from snow, debris, insects, and animals. To keep your pool cover in working order:

  • Ensure your cover is securely attached and insulated: inflate the air pillow, tighten the cable, secure cover clips, make sure water blocks/bags are secured, etc.
  • Remove debris and water from the pool cover. Plant debris, leaves, and twigs can be removed with a hose. Use a vacuum to remove any excess water.
  • Be sure to remove snow using rakes to pull or push snow off of the pool cover. Any extra weight can cause damage, especially to above-ground pools. The best option is to remove snow while it’s still fresh and hasn’t frozen to the cover.

Pool parts are quickly forgotten as they are tucked out of sight in the off-season. All parts need periodic maintenance to keep them running efficiently, no matter the geographical location. To keep your pool parts like new:

  • Check your pool pump, filter, and heater periodically to verify they are in proper working order. These parts can be expensive down the road, so it’s best to catch any issues early before they get worse.
  • Ensure all excess water has been removed while analyzing your pool parts. Freezing water can expand in pipes, causing significant cracks and problems.

Winter pool chemistry is key to a clean swimming pool, as many people do not entirely drain them for the winter season. Balanced water prevents algae, bacteria, waterlines, and decontamination. It is worth balancing your pool chemistry during the winter months, helping make the opening process much more efficient. Potential health risks can be avoided by keeping a clean and decontaminated pool.

To properly maintain your pool water:

  • When not in use, check your pool chemistry every two months. Algae and bacterial growth can occur if the pool water is not balanced.
  • All pool chemicals from the previous season should be discarded, as they lose their potency.
  • Enzyme products help break down non-living contaminates and prevent water rings from forming. When you open your pool in the spring, you won’t need to scrub your pool tile or finish.

Freeze alerts are essential to pay attention to, as leaks in pool liners or cracked pipes can be invisible during the winter months but become obvious in the spring. To save you from any potential damage:

  • Consider purchasing a digital thermometer sensor to notify you of dangerous temperatures.
  • Set weather alerts on your phone to be ready for the next freeze.

Taking the initiative and protecting your pool during the winter can save you time and money in the spring. For assistance with winter pool maintenance, contact the experts at Pound Pool Plastering today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.