Category: Pound Pool Plastering - page 5

Winter Pool Maintenance

Posted on January 13, 2021 by Creative Programs and Systems

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.

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A Brief History of Swimming Pools

Posted on December 10, 2020 by Creative Programs and Systems

The earliest public water tank in the ancient world is the Great Bath. Found in the 1920s, it existed more than 5,000 years ago in Mohenjo-Daro (a core epicenter of the Indus civilization) Pakistan. Measuring almost 40 feet by 23 feet with a depth of nearly eight feet, two sweeping staircases lead down into the pool. Its significance is unknown, but historians generally link it to ritualistic or religious bathing of sorts. The ancient city featured numerous baths (most homes had restrooms) and a complex sewage system, suggesting that cleanliness and bathing was a priority for the indigenous people.

Ancient Greeks and Romans perfected the pool landscape, as individual wealth increased and luxuries were effortlessly implemented. Beyond aesthetic and enhancement of the property, pools were also used for bathing, war training, maintaining health, religious ceremonies, socializing, and much more. “Palaestra” were ancient Greek open-court wrestling or boxing sites that usually included pools for exercising, bathing, or socializing. Plato felt that every Greek child needed to learn how to swim along with a proper education in mathematics, writing, astronomy, etc. Starting in 400 B.C., it was standard to teach children to swim in pools.

In the 1800s, the British National Swimming Society introduced competitive swimming. New swimming strokes and kicking techniques were introduced, which lead to increased speed. In 1896, the Olympic Games in Athens, Greece introduced swimming as its own event.

Texas houses one of the oldest in-ground pools in America. Deep Eddy Pool in Austin has a bathhouse built during the Depression by the Works Progress Administration. Today, it’s still a popular pool maintained by the City of Austin. It is listed as a historic landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.

In 1907, the first recorded above-ground swimming pool was constructed by the Philadelphia Racquet Club. It, too, is on the National Register of Historic Places since 1979.

The first pool to cross the Atlantic Ocean was installed on the Adriatic cruise ship from White Star Lines in 1907. The sister ship, The Titanic, also boasted a pool.

Following World War II, swimming pools became mainstream in America. They can be found in nearly every country in the world. The National Swimming Pool Foundation estimates more than 10 million swimming pools across America, including more than 360,000 year-round pools.

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

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Pandemic Pool Remodeling Is All the Rage

Posted on November 10, 2020 by Creative Programs and Systems

The sharp decrease in travel to exotic places with beaches or pools has caused many Americans to look elsewhere instead: their back yards.

Searches for pool and spa professionals are up three times from what they were a year ago. Sheltering-at-home orders during the COVID-19 pandemic have influenced the high demand for home improvements and remodeling.

More than three-quarters of all U.S. homeowners have done some sort of home improvement project during the pandemic, according to a report. A majority of those homeowners who responded said they plan on starting a new project in the upcoming 12 months. They attributed the motivation to an increase in spare time, adding value to their home, and making the house more comfortable. Pools increase property values and are clean, fun spaces for the family.

Even Wall Street investors are taking note of the soaring pool industry. Poolcorp, an international distributor of swimming pool supplies, parts, and outdoor living products hit an all-time high recently, and is up over 54 percent from last year. POOL stock is on its way to have its best year since 2003.

Pool remodeling projects are expected to climb during the fall and winter months, as these are typically the busier seasons; read one of our previous blog posts to find out why.

Are you looking to remodel or redesign your pool before next season? The time is now! Contact the professionals at Pound Pool Plastering to schedule an appointment today. To read more about the pool remodeling sensation sweeping the nation, read the original article by CNBC.

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

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Properly Winterize a Pool in Six Steps

Posted on October 13, 2020 by Creative Programs and Systems

With the crisp fall breeze upon us, winter will be here before we know it. Typically, pools are closed in the late summer or early fall. The process, called winterizing, helps protect pool’s structure from costly damage related to freezing water. It’s also a great way to ensure your pool is clean and ready for next year’s season.

Read the step-by-step winterizing process below:

Balance water. Ensuring your pool water chemistry is correct can circumvent laborious maintenance issues when you re-open in the spring or summer. Pool testing kits are essential for this step. Levels such as pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and more are crucial to assess. Incorrect chemical imbalances can lead to corrosion, effect comfortability, and promote algae growth. Winterizing chemicals can help keep your pool water balanced.

Add a shock treatment. Chlorine is critical to pool water quality by preventing algae, breaking down bacteria, and keeping the water clean and fresh. Shocking pool water consists of adding a large amount of chlorine (10 to 12 PPM), then waiting a day or two for the PPM to be a normal level (1.5 to 3.5 PPM.) For best results, shock your pool a few days before you plan on shutting it down.

Remove/clean tools and accessories. Remove all skimmer baskets, heaters, slides, wall fittings, vacuums, pool cleaners, ladders, and handrails. Clean well, allow to dry thoroughly, and store in a secure, dry place. After removing the equipment, collect debris from the pool using a net.

Lower the water level. Use the filter pump or submersible pump to lower the water level in the pool. It needs to be roughly four to six inches below the plumbing line, which is normally the water return line. Ensure the water is below the skimmer; the above-ground skimmer can be removed.

Drain your pool equipment. Your pool pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator have drain plugs. Drain manually or blow water out with a Shop Vac or something similar. Wash your filter and store during the winter. If you have a chemical feeder, drain and empty it.

Add a winter cover. Solid pool covers keep out debris, block the sun, and discourage algae growth. Air pillows fit under the cover and help to relieve pressure and protect the pool’s walls as the water freezes. Air pillows also minimize the number of leaves, debris, and water that collects in the center of your pool cover.

Have more questions about winterizing a pool? Look no further; contact the experts at Pound Pool Plastering who can assist with winterizing and renovations.

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

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What You Need to Know When Considering a Pool Renovation

Posted on June 30, 2020 by Creative Programs and Systems

If you are considering a pool renovation, we’ve got you covered. An updated pool can allow for more functionality and enjoyment, but it can also enhance your home’s value. In this article, we list seven things you can do to upgrade and renovate your pool.

Resurface – If you want to restore your pool’s full beauty and get rid of cracked or rough surfaces, a complete resurface with a professional pool renovation and pool plastering company should be considered. Pools with a vinyl interior can have a replacement liner installed – and with a new pattern, you can completely transform your pool overnight. Fiberglass pool owners should consult with a PHTA professional for the specific products that will bring new life to your pool.

Add Water Features – Installing a waterfall or fountain can bring the natural sound and beauty of water flow in your pool’s environment. Features like a rushing spillover bring a bold focal point and add another dimension to an otherwise soundless and ordinary pool.

Add a Hot Tub – A hot tub in or near your pool will dramatically enhance the pool area. Allowing the option of either a pool or a hot tub for your guests to choose will be appreciated for those people who prefer relaxing in a hot tub over a pool. Hot tubs also bring other benefits to the table, such as warm water therapy for injuries, muscle tension, and other therapeutic benefits.

New Tile – Installing new tile can offer one of the most noticeable upgrades in appearance from a visual and aesthetic viewpoint. As with a backsplash upgrade in a kitchen, adding new tile will make your pool stand out like never before.

Add Surrounding Environmental Features – There is so much you can do to enhance your pool area’s surroundings. If you don’t have a deck, now might be the time to consider adding one. If your pool area has a concrete patio, you can fill cracks or brush up the stressed areas with filler, followed by a layer of concrete stain. Think about adding a fireplace, outdoor bar/tiki area, and a media system that could have both audio and video elements. The options are endless, and adding small environmental features can transform the pool area into a mini paradise for you and your guests!

Lighting Upgrades – There are many benefits to adding enhanced lighting to a pool other than offering better illumination. Lighting can improve safety, set atmosphere, and bring another layer of elegance to your pool’s environment. For special nights, halogen and fiber optic light can bring ethereal dimensions to your poolscape. If you don’t want to install or upgrade to a new lighting system, LED replacements added to your existing light system can add color and movement to an otherwise static and ‘normal’ lighting system.

Technology – Elements of tomorrow’s pool are already here, and you would be surprised at what’s possible. Digital controls, apps, WIFI, and voice command control integration for lighting and basic pool operations are already available. With the touch of a button on your smart device or command with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, you can set up many activities you would have to do manually. New robotic cleaning systems that walk on the surface of your pool require practically no supervision and little maintenance. Advances in technology will only get better and more automated as time goes on, so it’s worth looking into if you want a genuinely modern pool area.

It’s worth noting that you don’t have to do all of these things at once, and upgrades can be done over several seasons. If you’re considering updating your pool, consult with a professional pool renovation company like Pound Pool Plastering Inc. They can help you put a plan together in terms of design features and budget forecasting, and you will be surprised at how much your pool could change within just a few years!

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Steps to Replace Pool Plaster

Posted on March 31, 2020 by Creative Programs and Systems

Spring has finally sprung, and it will be pool season before you know it. Now is the perfect time to inspect your pool’s surface and schedule a professional pool plaster company to assess the damage. No one wants to be waiting around for the repair to be completed when the warm weather arrives.

Step 1: Knowing When Your Pool Needs Repair

The first question often asked is, “When does the pool need to be re-plastered?” The answer to this question is not always straightforward. A pool with a plaster surface has a life expectancy of 7 to 20 years, and many factors may adjust this time frame depending on the care and maintenance it receives. Often, many homeowners or commercial property owners do not repair or re-plaster their pools as regularly as they should. Signs that your plaster may need repair are an increase in staining, rough textures, and leaks. These are all indicators that the professional pool plasterwork needs to be done.

Step 2: Choosing a Professional or DIY

Cost is always a factor when deciding to do any home repair, including the re-plaster of your pool. Pricing will vary depending on the area you live and the condition of the pool, but on average, you can expect to pay at least $200 in supplies along with 5 to 6 hours of labor. If you are considering a DIY project, keep in mind the following tools that will be required to do the job properly:

Acid Wash
Bond Coat
Chisel
Pool plaster/finishing plaster mix
Sump pump
Sander
Brushes/hose
Air compressor
Misc. – (gloves, face mask, buckets, etc.)

Step 3: Prep and Plaster

The first step in replastering a pool is turning off all of the equipment running to it (the pump, filter, heater, etc.), followed by draining the water. Use a sump pump to remove any remaining water at the bottom of the pool. Afterward, ensure to thoroughly remove any debris, such as dirt, leaves, and other sediment clinging to the surface. Next, prep the surface by sanding or chiseling any uneven areas before applying the new finish. The final steps include applying the acid wash and bond coat applications. Once these applications are complete, the new plaster can be applied.

Pound Pool Plastering offers several options when it comes to servicing your pool including plaster, caulk, tiling, cement decks, plumbing, and coping in both commercial and residential settings. More information can be found at https://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

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Steps to Re-plaster a Pool

Posted on February 25, 2020 by Creative Programs and Systems

Owning a pool is a big investment not only for your money but your time and energy in order to properly maintain its beauty for many years to come. Over time, even with excellent care you will notice the bottom of the pool will become rough, bumpy and even sharp in certain areas. It will become time to replace the pool plaster finish not only for the appearance but to keep it safe to use for yourself and your pool guests.

What and When to Plaster

Simply, plastering a pool means adding a new layer of plaster on the walls and bottom of the pool. The reason for doing this is to make the pool waterproof since when it is first originally installed by your professional pool contractors, the pool is created from either concrete or gunite to form the outside “shell”. These two materials’ biggest problem is they are porous and will not hold water over time and the pool would continuously need to be filled up over time. A solution to this is for an installer to add a half-inch thick layer of plaster. It will not only become a barrier for the water but also give the water appearance and beautiful blue hue with a smooth surface, so the look and feel are preferable. No plaster is designed to last forever, depending on the correct maintenance and use the pool plaster will remain intact anywhere between seven and twenty years.

Risks That Increase with Neglect

So, what happens if the pool is not cleaned/ taken care of on a regular basis? If a pool is not properly maintained during its life, there are many factors that the plaster will affect that can be very costly down the road. First, you may notice new stains appearing to the surface due to certain minerals that may be contained in the pool water such as iron or copper that can often give a green/ brown tint. Although this issue is only aesthetic, it can be quite frustrating to deal with after spending so much time and money to keep it looking clean and fresh. The next issue that will occur will be the surface will form lumps, bumps, and scratching spots on the surface which will cause concern for swimmers to not get scraped when jumping and swimming around. The bumps may not be too uncomfortable but in the long term, they will make the pool harder to clean and a place that algae will find and grow on. Lastly, the largest danger is it can affect the integrity of the pool structure. As discussed earlier, the plaster is a protective layer that keeps the pool waterproof, if the plaster wears away, water will seep into the concrete or gunite causing even larger problems.

Alternatives for Re-plaster

If re-plastering your pool is not something that you have the time or budget currently for there are serval of options to help resolves some of your plaster issues but keep in mind, most are only temporary fixes and can be even more expensive than doing the actual re-plastering. One option is to do a patching job. If areas of the plaster are beginning to feel rough this option would eliminate that but not only is this a temporary solution, but the patch materials will never completely match the plaster which will make it unsightly as well. Another solution for removing pool stains is to perform an acid wash. It’s a quick fix for the stain but it does not help in any way with preserving the plaster. In fact, the acid wash will damage the plaster further so its best to only use this method if the aesthetics are a necessity to you. If money is no object when repairing the pool, installing tile can be a great decision since the material is incredibly strong and beautiful to look at. The pricing may surprise you, however, ranging anywhere between $75-$100 per square foot.

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Common Causes for Pool Plaster Issues

Posted on January 27, 2020 by Creative Programs and Systems

A pool’s plaster interior finish is created for two reasons; to create an appealing water feature that accents your home’s beauty and to protect the integrity and structure of the pool. Pool plaster prevents water from leaking through into the concrete, which could damage the building materials inside the pool’s shell structure. Keeping your pool plaster in good condition is key to the pool’s overall strength and longevity. However, even the most well-maintained pools will eventually show aging and signs of degradation in the plaster, which is a perfectly normal occurrence. With proper care and routine treatments, the life span of 7 to 10 years can be expected for traditional marcite plaster. The timeline can be extended an additional five years if the finish includes a quartz aggregate blend. Even a high-quality plaster finish that is professionally applied to a pool can still have complications occur, sometimes as soon as a few months or a few years after being built. Next, we will discuss common issues found with pool plaster such as streaks, stains, erosion and why they occur.

Pool Water Chemistry

One of the leading causes of plaster corrosion is improper pool water chemistry. Corrosion can occur when a new pool is filled up for the first time or if a large amount of water is added to a pool due to evaporation. Perhaps, water is added outside of your control, such as a big downfall of rain, which, for sure, will change the levels of pH, chlorine, and alkalinity. If and when these events occur, your pool levels will need to be monitored and adjusted to the correct amounts so as not to damage the plaster.

Objects Entering the Pool

Another item that can inadvertently get added to your pool that will change its chemistry is any organic matter such as grass, leaves, plants, or even flower pollen. Not only can it change the water chemistry but it also can cause staining to the plaster in only a few short hours. Other man-made objects can cause damage as well; fertilizer, for example, that can be blown into the pool has iron-rich minerals that can create dime-sized rust spots along the interior sides of the pool. In general, items that contain metal can also leave rust stains throughout the plaster, such as lost coins or hairpins from past swimmers.

Address the Problem Before Significant Damage Occurs

If you believe there is a problem starting to occur with your pool plaster, don’t ignore it! Once an issue begins and if left unattended, the damage will be more challenging to handle. Before trying to do any DIY fixes, it is advised to consult with a professional plaster company that specializes in the repair. You may need to take a few pictures of the damage and send them to a pool contractor where they can then guide you with advice or they may need to make an appointment to assess the damage in person. Simple fixes can be applied if the damage is caught early on, such as brushing out stains or rebalancing the water’s chemistry. If the problem can not be resolved with a quick fix, the pool may need to be drained or partially drained for hand sanding or for an acid wash to be completed. If all else fails and the damage is too extensive for repair, it will ultimately need a complete and costly replaster of the pool.

Pound Pool Plastering serves both commercial and residential settings and provides a variety of selections to service your pool, including plaster, caulk, tiling, cement decks, and plumbing. More information can be found at https://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

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Choosing the Right Finish for Your Pool

Posted on December 23, 2019 by Creative Programs and Systems

When installing a pool there are many options that need to be considered to give homeowners that picturesque view they dream about when coming home every day for relaxation and leisure. One of the many choices that need to be made is the type and style of finish the pool will have; whether it’s made of plaster, tile, or aggregate. Each finish has a variety of materials, colors, and textures to choose from. The options seem endless; which is the best to use and in what combination? If you’re renovating or installing a new inground pool it’s important to select the best finish that compliments your design and vision. Below, we’ll discuss the different types of finishes so you can find an option that fits your budget and your pool needs perfectly.

Plaster

Plaster is the most common material used for pool surface finishing. It is made from a mixture of water, Portland cement, and either silica sand or marble dust. Many choose a traditional white plaster, also known as marcite, which gives the pool a clean, smooth appearance. An available option with plaster is to mix color pigments or dyes to give the pool finish more depth and create a unique appearance. The color that is most popularly added is medium grey because it gives the pool water an amazing blue tint that many are looking for. Darker colors like dark grey and black are used to create more depth or to appear like a natural lake or pond. Plaster finished pools remain the least expensive pool finish and generally lasts 5 to 7 years before signs of repair are needed.

Aggregates

The newest form of pool plaster surfaces is called aggregates. They are a combination of white or colored plasters mixed with little pieces of stones such as quartz, granite, or glass beads. Aggregate finishes are growing in popularity due to its resistance to chemicals and staining compared to standard plaster and it also extends the life of the finish by 12 to 20 years. Since there is a beautiful variety of colors and textures to mix together, every finished pool has a one-of-a-kind look that many people are after making this another great choice.

When choosing aggregates, you’ll need to decide if you want the stones polished or exposed. A polished aggregate finish has crushed colored stones that are applied by hand to the pool shell by a professional plaster company. It is then polished to show the stone’s luster more clearly and makes the surface smooth. Exposed aggregates contain small river pebbles or glass beads that are also hand-applied. After application and while still wet, the exposed aggregates are power washed using a mixture of muriatic acid which removes the top layer of concrete exposing the colored pebbles or glass beads. This style has a rough texture to create traction to the pool surface.

Tile Finishes

If your looking for one of the most durable finishes with endless design options, look no further than tile. Tiles are typically applied at the waterline of a pool or onto steps to accent the pool, but they can be used to finish the entire interior of the pool as well. The biggest disadvantage in using tile, however, is most definitely the cost and the amount of time required for installation. It may be well worth it in the end though since the life of the tile should never need to be redone, unlike other finishes. Tile can be made from ceramic, porcelain, glass, and even stone which gives a large variety of shapes and colors for a unique appearance.

No matter which finishes you choose, they all offer stunning beauty to your pool in which you’ll enjoy for many years to come. Consult with a professional plaster company to help you decide between the many options available for your pool. Pound Pool Plastering serves both commercial and residential settings and provides all pool-related services to meet your needs including plaster, caulk, tiling, cement decks, and plumbing. More information can be found at https://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

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Pool Remodeling in The Winter

Posted on November 22, 2019 by Creative Programs and Systems

When thinking about pool remodeling, winter is typically the farthest time of year that most people think about repairs/ upgrades. It’s cold outside, there is snow covering the pool so why would now be a good time to explore a remodel? Surprisingly, winter is the very best time for your pool to get a little TLC and there are several advantages you can enjoy by remodeling your pool during the winter. Below we will discuss exactly why.

Better Pricing

Your budget is typically your largest factor when planning your pool remodeling and with winter being a less busy season for pool contractors, the pricing is much more affordable. With pool companies having more availability you will be able to choose a time in your schedule that works best instead of having to work around what they can offer during the spring or summer. Another great advantage is that many pool companies will offer better deals and pricing for swimming pool care during their less busy months as well.

Not Wasting Precious Pool Time

The frequency of using a swimming pool is safe to assume to be used much more in the summer than the winter months. Choosing to have renovations in the spring or early summer could be a risky decision since renovation can take longer and instead of being in the pool each day, you now may be waiting for the service to be completed. Summer is already such a short season that the main reason to have a pool is to enjoy it each day that is available. Getting the pool remodeling completed in the winter when you aren’t planning on using it anyway just seems like a much better option for you and for the contractors, win-win!

Better Working Weather

It may seem strange to have anything pool maintenance-related done in the winter but for contractors, it can be more ideal due to the temperatures outside while working will be comfortable for working as opposed to hot summer days. In the summer, contractors will struggle to work quickly because the risk of heatstroke are high and need to stop for breaks and stay hydrated which understandably will slow down their production. If choosing to have renovations for your pool in winter, the contractors tend to be more efficient and get the repairs done quicker as well.

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