Winter Care For Your Pools Plaster

Winter is one of the harshest seasons for your pool. In order to keep the pool free from damage and the effects of freezing throughout the winter it is important that you prepare it properly.  A little bit of winter preparations and maintenance will go a long way in making sure your pool is ready to swim in come summer.

The temperatures are usually warmer doing the day and the night brings in the freezing temperatures.  In order to protect your pool throughout the night it is important that you set up freezer protect equipment.  Anytime the temperature drops below thirty five degrees the freeze protect equipment needs to turn on.   If you don’t do this you could be asking for expensive pool repairs.  During the say when temperatures are warmer and the sun is out, trap it in your solar heating system which will help save energy in the long run.

Chlorine Feeders Should Be Turned Off

Chlorine feeders ensure a constant flow of chlorine into the pool water.  If the system malfunctions at any point there may not be enough chlorine in the water to keep it safe for swimming in.  Most people close their pools in the winter so it is important that the chlorine levels are maintained.  Instead of keeping chlorine feeders on throughout the winter manually monitor the levels of chlorine in the pool water using a pool test kit.  The levels of chlorine in the water should be between one and one point five parts per million.

Clean the Skimmers and Baskets Often

The water in your pool needs to be clean at all times.  Without taking the necessary steps it may be incredibly difficult to achieve this.  For the pool to remain clean you need to have the right equipment to collect, trap and dispose of debris littering the pool.  Pool skimmers are a great tool for this.  A skimmer is connected to the pools wall with a suction pump and filters in the water and dirt, trapping the dirt and letting clean pool water escape.  Keeping the skimmers and baskets cleaned at all times will help keep the water free of debris.

The pH should be In Balance

One of the most important elements in your pool water is the pH level.  The pools water chemistry needs to remain neutral.  A neutral pH balance is anything between seven point zero and seven point six.  If the pool water is too acidic it will dissolve plaster pool surfaces and eat away at metal pipe fittings.  If the pool has too much alkaline will result in calcification at the waterline.

Algaecide Winterizing

Shockingly it is possible for algae to grow in a pool during the winter season.  If you aren’t able to kill the algae it will flourish in your pool, become discolored and smell really bad. Treat the pool before shutting it down for the winter.  Make sure the chlorine level is maintained before adding in the algaecide.  If you don’t take this step the algaecide will be ineffective.  In order to prevent the algae from growing for the entire winter it is important to use an extra strong algaecide.

Follow the tips above in helping to protect your pool for the winter season.  It is especially important to protect your pools plaster.  Make sure the water pH is in check frequently throughout the winter season to avoid costly pool plaster repairs.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

All Season Care For Your Pools Plaster

Caring for your in-ground pool is not something that should be overlooked no matter what the season.  Winter pool care is as important as pool maintenance is throughout the summer months.  One of the most important elements to your in-ground unite swimming pool is the plaster overlay.

The pools plaster is what keeps the water from leaking out of the pool through the gunite, concrete, pool shell.  If the pool were allowed to be filled without a proper plaster in lay the water would seep out through the porous concrete shell.  The plaster element of the pool is both functional and decorative.    Without the plaster the pool would not be as appealing to the eye.  The plaster gives a clean interior finish to the pool.  The plaster can be a variety of colors and textures. The texture in the plaster makes it so that the surface is non-stick.

Common Characteristics to In-Ground Swimming Pool Plaster

Plaster has its own texture.  Plain, white plaster when installed feels like the outside of an egg shell.  It is smooth but not slick.  It will not feel like tile does when it is wet.  Plaster does not have the polished, slippery effect when you have with tile.

The finish on your in ground pool is not meant to be flawless.  Plaster is a product of artists and therefore when applied should be viewed as a unique piece of art.  Plaster is applied by hand using a trowel.

When it comes to the construction of your pool the plaster is one of the most difficult parts of the project.  This on top of the visibility is what makes it such an invaluable part of the construction.  Don’t take short cuts or hire an inexperienced pool plastering company.

When your pool has a light installed you will notice more small imperfections in the pools plaster.  They will be magnified by the light.  Small imperfections, small cracks are normal and should not be cause for any concern.

When your pool is first installed it is advisable to keep the pool filled with water for the first two seasons.  You will want to take extra precautions with the pool’s equipment throughout the winter to avoid issues.  Keeping the pool filled allows the plaster to properly cure and age.

Pool plaster left without water is a disaster waiting to happen.  If you must drain your swimming pool for any reason it is important that you waste no time in making the needed repairs and then refill the pool with water.  The plaster on the pools surface should never go more than eight days without being full.  After eight days the plaster is more susceptible to drying out and cracking.

Caring for your in-ground gunite pool plaster throughout all four seasons will ensure that your pool is fully functional throughout the swimming season.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Closing Procedures That Help To Protect Your Swimming Pools Plaster

Another summer season has come and gone.  With temperatures dipping into the freezing realm in parts of the country it is time to make sure your in-ground pool is closed properly.  If you haven’t had time to close the pool yet be sure to keep your pool pump running to avoid freezing which will cause cracks in the plaster.  The materials that the pipes, heaters, filters, pumps and shell are made from are all very strong but when they freeze, they will expand.  This will cause cracks in even the strongest of materials. 

It is necessary to take proper precautions in closing your gunite plaster pool.  Below you will find tips to help you properly close your in-ground gunite plaster pool. 

• The first thing you need to do when closing your pool is to balance the pool water. The pools pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness levels need to be adjusted to prepare for the harsh winter cold.  This should be done a few days prior to the actual closing of the pool.  You may also want to shock the pool with granular chlorine while you are balancing the pool water.  This needs to occur before you put the winter pool cover onto the pool.  High levels of chlorine will ruin the pool cover. 
• The pool should be thoroughly cleaned before you close the pool. This will avoid issues from occurring that could be present in the spring such as stains on the pools plaster.  Also debris and algae left present in the pool water will dilute the chemicals leaving the environment more susceptible for more algae growth.  
• Lower the pools water. The level in which you leave the pool water will be dependent on the pool cover you choose.  For a mesh safety cover lower the water to about a foot below the pools tile, for a solid pool cover or one that floats on the  surface the water level should be lowered to five inches below the pools tile. 
• Add in the winter pool chemicals. This will require you to follow the directions on the pool closing kit.  These chemicals can be purchased at any local pool center.  Once the pool water level has been lowered it is the perfect time to add in the winter pool chemicals. 
• Clean and store the pool filter and blow out all lines that could contain water that could possibly freeze and crack the pools equipment. Remove pumps, heaters and automatic chlorination systems.  Place all of these pieces together in a temperature controlled environment to avoid any possibly freezing that can occur. 
• Plug all open lines and shut the power to the pumps off. This can be done by switching off the circuit breaker.  Also be sure to turn off all timers just in case someone accidentally turns the circuit breaker back on. 

If this seems all to complex or if it is your first time you are closing your pool for the winter the best piece of advice I can give to you is to hire a professional pool closing company to come in and walk you through the process.  They can help to address the specifics surrounding your precise in-ground pool needs. 

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Maintaining Your In-Ground Swimming Pool

There are many reasons people decided to install an in-ground swimming pool.  One of the most frequently given reasons for having a pool installed is for the pure and simple reason that they offer relaxation in your own backyard.  Homeowners can choose to install jets and massage elements to help facilitate relaxation and to help ease muscle tension.  Customizing your pool to fit the needs and wants of your family will make it a continuous flow of enjoyment throughout the summer.

Once the custom pool is installed homeowners must maintain it.  It takes commitment to sustain an in-ground pool.  Depending on where the pool is located also depends on the type of maintenance that is required.  In the winter special care should be taken if you live in an environment where the water freezes.  Pool tiles can stain; the surface of the tiles can become rough.  Maintaining a pool is not necessarily easy but is required.  Over time pool plaster can become cracked and need repairs.  It is important if the maintenance becomes overwhelming for homeowners that they hire professionals to care for the pool.

Having your pool resurfaced is complicated and is not a maintenance issue that should be taken on by the homeowner.  It is a difficult and tricky repair that needs to be done by a professional pool plastering company.  The first step in plastering a pool is to drain the pool water.  The first step in doing this is to determine where the water can be drained.  Often times the water can be drained directly into the sewer system.  Before the water is drained it is important that the electrical components are shut off.  When draining the water out of the pool it is also crucial to drain the water out of filters and other pieces of equipment that hold pool water.

The resurfacing of the pool should be done by professional pool plasterers.  It is a skill that is perfected over time and should not be experimented with.  This is especially true because pools are extremely expensive and not a backyard experiment.  When you are re-surfacing the pool the old plaster needs to be chipped off and separated from the gunite swimming pool.  Once the pool plaster is removed it should be cleaned with an acidic solution and then the new plaster can be put in place.

Once the plaster is in place and dried it is time to refill the pool.  This is not a free for all.  Water needs to be refilled slowly and with care.  Try tying a sock onto the hose or source of water to prevent stones or large materials from scratching the new surface.  It is important to ensure that the pool corners are filled before the flat surface in order to evenly fill the pool and prevent damage to the new plaster.

Maintaining a pool is worth the effort for the peace and relaxation it offers to homeowners.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Options In Coping For Your In-Ground Swimming Pool

Having a new pool installed is exciting.  There are tons of decisions to make throughout the process with one of the most important being the swimming pool coping.  The pool coping covers the edge of the pool.  It creates safety as well as providing an aesthetically pleasing appeal to the pool area.  When the pool is being installed talk with the contractor about the options that are available in coping to help create the environment you desire.  

Pool coping provides a cover to the sharp edges of swimming pools.  In ground swimming pools are often made from gunite which creates a rigid jagged edge where the patio meets the surface.  When the coping is installed it protects the swimmers from scraps and cuts.  Coping is smooth and curves around the perimeter of the pool.

Coping for swimming pools also helps to prevent cracking that can occur in the pools plaster and foundation.  The borders and edges of the swimming pool are the most fragile point of the pools construction.  When you cover the edges with pool coping you are adding an extra layer of protection against chips and cracks.  Cracked coping is less expensive to repair than concrete and plaster. 

Another benefit to coping is how pleasing it is to the eye.  Coping is attractive and adds a decorative border between the patio and the pool.  It is adds visual appeal that flatters the pool area.  Coping magnifies the beauty that a swimming pool brings to the landscape of your homes backyard.  A pool is a great addition to any backyard adding to the splendor of your homes landscaping.  Coping helps to make the pool pop.

With the use of coping you can make your pool unique.  There is simple, plain coping or something unique like natural stones.  Coping allows you to create the look you desire for your pool simply.  Take some time looking into all of the options available to you when looking at coping for your swimming pool. 

An in-ground swimming pool is a beautiful addition to any homes backyard.  Creating a safe pool environment is the most important aspect for most homeowners.  Pool coping creates a safe edge where the concrete and plaster meet the deck.  The other benefit to pool coping beyond creating a safe edge is that it helps to preserve the concrete and plaster.  Coping helps to prevent cracks to the pools surface all while creating an appeal visually. 

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Upgrades To Your Gunite Swimming Pool

Upgrades and renovations are a part of the interior and exterior of every home.  This is true even when it comes to your in-ground plaster swimming pool.  This is true even when it comes to your in-ground plaster swimming pool.  Every space within your home eventually needs some sprucing up.  With all the advances in swimming pool materials now maybe the perfect time to think about updating yours.  The question now is where to start.

Lighting is an important part of any backyard pool.  LED and fiber optic swimming pool lights are adding that wow factor to ordinary in ground swimming pools.  Installing lights underwater takes your swimming experience to an entirely new level.  The glow that is emitted throughout the water helps to solidify the mood and swimming experience.  You will never turn away from hosing another late night pool party.  Your outdoor living space will now be an outdoor oasis with lighting that accentuates your home and backyard.

Another common upgrade that is taking the swimming pool world by surprise is the upgrade of a salt water chlorinator.   This upgrade removes the need for liquid chlorine, chlorine tablets or granular chlorine and upgrades your system to salt water chlorination.  This type of system offers you convenience and clean water without the hassle.  To clean the pool, the salt in the chlorinator is taken and converted to chlorine using a simple chemical process.

Another upgrade that is common amongst plaster pool owners is the use of aggregate-finish pool plaster. The use of aggregate-finish pool plaster can help protect the gunite swimming pool from damage.  An aggregate pool finish offers variety in both color and design.  Enhance your pools visual appeal with a crystal, quartz or pebble plaster finish.  Not only will the upgrade to enhanced pool plaster look amazing it will help to extend the pools finish and life expectancy by a good twenty years.

Another swimming pool upgrade that updates your pool is natural stone coping and decking.  There is a wide variety of types of stone coping that will help to enhance your decking and pool area breathing new life into the entire area. If you are looking for a completely updated look that is dramatically different that anything you have seen before update your outdoor living space with natural stone coping.  The deck and pool area will completely transform with updated coping and decking.

With any upgrades to your home, backyard or landscape it is important to not only renovate but to keep up on the renovations with regular maintenance.  Your swimming pool will require maintenance but with upgrading to natural stone coping, aggregate pool plaster, a salt water chlorinator, and updated lighting; your backyard is sure to be turned into an outdoor paradise that can go on celebrating far into the night.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Backyard Gunite Pool Construction

When you are designing any space in your home the process starts with research.  Ideas are found in a variety of spaces including magazines, the internet and sketches.  Ask friends, family and neighbors about their experiences with their in-ground swimming pools and the entire installation process. The more research that is done, as well as the more you understand what you want the easier the entire swimming pool project will be.  Being informed before you take the first step into pool construction will save you time and money throughout the entire process.

The process of installing and constructing a swimming pool is quite intimidating.  A swimming pool is a large financial investment and is not something that cannot be taken lightly.  The more information you know about the entire process from start to finish the more efficient your plan of action will be.

When starting your research it can be overwhelming.  Start by exploring local pool companies and the previous jobs that they have completed.  Not only do you want to see the work that they have previously done but you also want to see that they stay within a budget, time frame and that they are ultimately easy to work with.  Not only will you want to look at referrals but it is important to explore the company’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau as well as the reviews online from customers.  Looking at a company’s website also can be helpful when looking to find out more information about them and the services they provide.

Once the list of swimming pool contractors has been narrowed down create a list of questions to ask each of them.  Here are a few things to go over before you choose a swimming pool contractor to install your new swimming pool.

How long have you been in business installing and designing in-ground swimming pools?

How many swimming pools have you constructed?

Do you have any plaster swimming pool sites that we can visit in which work was recently wrapped up?

Purchasing a swimming pool is not only creates a large hole in your pocket book but also in the backyard of your home.  Be sure before the excavating begins that this is a commitment that you have not only researched but that you are also ready to care for.  No matter what type of pool is installed, plaster or vinyl, there is maintenance that comes along with it.  From the minute the ground is broke, the pool starts to take shape and the visualization of your dream starts to take place you are a pool owner.  Let the summer fun begin.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Options In Swimming Pool Coping

Swimming pool coping is the part of your in ground swimming pool that finished off the pool and gives it a quality appearance.  Without coping a swimming pool looks unfinished; without it a pool appears classless and without style.  Not only is pool coping decorative while finishing off the look of the pool it also offers a safety feature; coping offers a non-slip, smooth edge to your in ground swimming pool. 

More often than not an attractive paving is laid around the pool area.  Your pool coping will really stand out is this paving is in a contrasting color to the in ground swimming pool coping. 

When choosing pool coping you have a lot of options to choose from.  Coping tiles come in a variety of styles, colors and materials. From expensive travertine to inexpensive poured concrete there is material that will enhance your pools natural beauty.  Styles include bullnose coping which allows the concrete to be poured butting up to the lip of the pool whereas cantilever style coping extends over the lip of the pool wall. 

Natural stone is an option many pool owners choose when it comes to coping.  Natural stone pool coping is available using a variety of materials including sandstone, marble, granite, limestone, travertine and bluestone.  Natural stone usually comes in tile form however can be cut to fit bends and corners.  You can choose to treat the stone with sealer or not.  If you choose not the treat the stone it will weather naturally enhancing the stones beauty.

Concrete coping can be installed in pre-made forms or poured into formers surrounding the pool. Concrete is versatile and can be patterned using stamps, colored and distressed making it look like more expensive coping materials but without the cost or expensive maintenance.  Poured concrete is a material that is easy to work with and is laid without the work required in installing natural stone coping.

Brick, porcelain tiles and natural clay bricks are all alternatives when it comes to in ground swimming pool coping.  When choosing a material for your pool coping look at your overall budget and decide what you are willing to allocate on coping.  This will help narrow down the options as you will be limited by a smaller budget on your material choices.  This however does not mean that you can’t have a more expensive look using poured concrete.  Contact a professional pool plasterer that specializes in all aspects of pool services including coping, tile, plaster resurfacing, caulking, decking and more.  

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

The Importance Of Swimming Pool Coping

How many in ground pool owners know the importance of their swimming pool coping?  A pools coping is nothing more edging for your pool however it serves a greater purpose than being a decoration.  Swimming pools coping helps prevent the water from seeping out on to the deck as well as hiding the rough edges around the pool.  These rough edges if not covered by pool coping would cause many cuts and bruises.  There are a variety of coping materials to choose from when it comes to coping for your pool.  Depending on your budget you can find a variety of quality coping materials for your pool.

One option in coping for your in ground swimming pool is poured concrete.  Known for its durability, long life span and affordability concrete is a popular option in pool coping and can be dyed to a variety of colors to match your pool area.  With pool coping the concrete must be poured in.  This helps to limit stress on the pools edge and keep the surface even and uniform in strength.  Regular maintenance and repairs on your pools coping will prevent cracks from expanding with the temperature changes.

Another option in pool coping that is not as popular as poured concrete is brick.  Using brick in pool coping adds a unique look to the pools edging.  The biggest disadvantage when it comes to brick is the rough surface as well as the fact that it tends to retain heat. 

Stone is another charming alternative to swimming pool coping.  It is a material sought out for pools coping as it is tough, attractive and stays cool even in the hottest of temperatures.  The main disadvantage with natural stone pool coping is the cost associated with purchasing and installing it. 

When it comes to commercial pool coping, safety grip is a popular option.  Safety grip coping is created using a concrete base that minimizes slipping with increased grip.  Many public swimming areas will use safety grip coping to help create a slip resistant surface for their swimmers. 

Pool coping materials should be chosen based up your climate, the pools use as well as maintenance time and costs.  The style of the coping is something that needs to be considered as well.  There are four main types of coping styles including bull-nose, cantilevered, rolled edge and rough cut.  Bull-nose coping offers a flat surface with a rolled edge, cantilevered coping offers a straight angle drop to the water, rolled edge offers an upward curve, and rough cut which is often flat.  

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Caring For Your In Ground Swimming Pool Through The Seasons

Owning an in ground gunite swimming pool requires a certain degree of upkeep.  Below is a brief overview on what you can except in season and off season for pool care.

In Season Care Of Your In Ground Gunite Swimming Pool

1)      Check the pools chemical levels.   Your pools pH and chlorine should be checked at least twice a week.  The pool should maintain a chlorine level of one to three parts per million and chlorine ph of at least seven point four to seven point six. Always check the water towards dusk after swimmers are done swimming for the night and the water has had time to settle.  Follow all directions on pool testing kits and chemical additions.

2)      The pool should be cleaned thoroughly at least once a week if not more. This will depend on use as well as the local weather. Cleaning the pool consists of skimming the debris from the top, brush the pools plaster in a circular motion loosening dirt and debris and running a vacuum to suck the dirt up after it has settled on the pools floor.  Cleaner can be used and applied if necessary.  Be sure to also check all filtrations systems and clean them out as well.

3)      Shock the pool with a high dose of chlorine every few weeks. Allow the pump and filter to run all night.  Swimming should be avoided for twenty four hours to allow the chemicals to run through the pools systems.

4)      The more the pools filter is run, while the pool is being actively used, the cleaner your pool will remain.  This is true throughout the summer swimming season.  It the water is in constant motion the dirt, debris, body oils and algae will have a hard time settling on the pool sides and floor.

Off Season Care Of Your In Ground Gunite Swimming Pool

1)      The pool should be inspected completely before you close the pool for the season. Check thepools plaster for cracks and imperfections that will need to be addressed before re-opening the opening the pool during the next swimming season.

2)      Adjust the chemicals in the water to perfection before completely closing the pool.

3)      All objects should be taken out of the pool.  Do not leave in ladders, diving boards, slides, pool toys, skimming baskets or any other pool accessory.  All items should be removed, dried and stored in a safe, dry environment throughout the winter season.

4)      Drain all of the water from the pool pumps, pipes and filtration systems.  Water that remains in the pools systems will likely freeze over the winter and could potentially cause expensive damage.  If you need help draining water from tubing a shop vacuum used on the lowest setting is gentle enough to assist in this.

5)      The pools water level should be lowered to just below the lowest pool return.  If you have any decorative tile on the pool walls it is important that the water is left below the tiles during the off season.

6)      Cover the pool with a safety cover throughout the winter season.  Secure it tightly and fix any obvious tears, rips or gaps.  A pool cover protects the pool from debris that is shed throughout the winter.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Good Clean Fun With The Installation Of A Gunite Swimming Pool

When summer approaches homeowners look towards ways to keep their children safe, active and at home.  Often times this can include installing an in ground cement and plaster finished pool.  Having a gunite pool installed at your home is a lot simpler and more affordable than ever before. 

When it comes to in ground or above ground pools they are incredibly similar in normal operations.  Both pools require filtration to be keep the pool free of debris, chemicals to maintain the ph balance, maintenance to keep it clean as well as basic surface cleaning.  One basic difference is that in –ground gunite swimming pools require maintenance on the pools plaster coating where as above ground pools will need thorough inspections of the vinyl lining.   The rest of the pools regular maintenance stays about the same.

1)      Debris will float on the surface of the water no matter what type of pool you have.  The first task is to remove the debris with a pool skimmer.  Pool owners should keep up on skimming their pools.  It should be done once or twice a day.  This also keeps the job from becoming overwhelming. 

2)      Both vinyl and plaster pools alike need to their walls to be cleaned.  By scrubbing the pool sides with a plastic-bristle pool brush you prevent algae and debris from sticking to the sides and staining the pool.  Move the brush in a circular motion around the entire lining of the pool. This will clean the sides without causing damage to the lining or plaster of a pools surface.

3)      After you scrub the sides of the pool with the plastic pool brush wait ten to fifteen minutes for the dirt and particles to settle on the pools bottom.  Vacuum the pools bottom slowly taking in all of the debris that has been rustled up.  By moving the vacuum slowly you will avoid stirring the dirt up and it is more efficient at getting all of the debris. Brush and vacuum the pool every week to keep the pool clean and as fresh as possible.

4)      Add the correct chemicals to balance the chlorine and remove the algae.  Follow all of the instructions while using pool chemicals.  Make sure to spread the pools chlorine around.  Dilute the chlorine as you add it to the pool avoiding staying in one place.

5)      Test the pools water ph and alkalinity levels once every two weeks.  Chlorine levels should be maintained around three parts per million and ph levels should read between seven point two and seven point six.

6)      The filtration systems should be cleaned thoroughly each week.  The main filter on the pool should be checked and emptied daily.  This is where large debris will end up.  Many people find critters that have drown in the pool in the filtration system.  So be aware that this may happen to you

7)      Keep the pools filtration systems running at least eight hours a day to keep the pool circulation and filtering regular and the water as fresh as possible for your swimming adventures. 

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

All About Gunite Swimming Pools

Swimming pools that are built into the ground are often made from a mixture that includes cement. A gunite swimming pool is created by mixing cement, sand and water together then spraying the combination onto the surface using pneumatic pressure. It is held onto the surface by a frame created out of rebar. Together the rebar frame along with the gunite mixture is what creates the base of the pools structure. A plaster surface, often referred to as marcite is added to finish the pool. 

Plaster creates a waterproof barrier that gunite alone does not have. The pools plaster should be applied by a team of professionals to guarantee that plaster surface is thick enough that it does not allow water to seep out. If the plaster is not thick enough the entire pool will need to be drained to repair the plaster hence stopping the water loss the pool is experiencing. This is a hassle that homeowners can avoid by hiring a reputable pool plastering company. 

One piece of advice I like to give new pool owners, especially those with gunite pools is to never drain your pool without first having professional instruction or hiring a company to help. A pool is not drained properly can end up with extensive damage to the pools surface, plumbing and surrounding area. 

Cracking is a common problem in gunite swimming pools. Cracks occur when water seeps into the ground behind the gunite mixture from the ground above and is allowed to seep in over time. With changes in the temperature the structure expands and contracts thus overtime causing cracks. Ground shifting from changes in the water table, earth quakes and erosion from floods, freeze/thaws. 

In order to prevent water seepage from the cracks in the pools marcite it is important that the gunite pool be repaired. This can be done using several repairing methods depending on the exact issue. If the plaster is in poor condition the pool plaster will need to be replaced. If the leak is small however it can often be repaired using a waterproof sealant. It is important that the proper technique is used when applying the sealant. 

Cracks in the plaster can also be filled using pressurize polymer that adheres to the structure becoming a flexible hinge. This is then touched up by applying a coating of plaster in the desired thickness. A large crack in the plaster is a bit tougher. The gunite structure will need to be stabilized, and then the above technique can be applied. 

With proper care of your gunite pool the pools plaster surface can stay in good shape and be maintenance free for years. Proper care includes the correct ph balance for the water, proper cleaning and upkeep on the pools internal systems. To keep the pools water in balnce it is best to check the water every few days or when water is added to the pool. Additional water from heavy rains can often cause an imperfect balance to occur in the pools water that will need to be quickly corrected to avoid damage to the pools surface.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote visit http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Refinishing Gunite Swimming Pools

When a concrete swimming pool is put into the ground the cement needs to be covered to protect the pool surface. Gunite pools, commonly referred to as cement or concrete pools are covered with marcite, a plaster composed of white cement and crushed marble. The plaster is an important piece of the gunite pool puzzle as it provides the surfacing to the pool. That being said the plaster requires a certain amount of care when it is applied. Below you will find a guide on caring for your newly plastered pool. 

After your pools plaster has been applied by a professional pool plastering company, the company will start to fill your pool. The plaster is cement based and as with cement will require a curing stage of about fourteen days. Filling the pool with water up to the tile helps the curing process and reduces shrinkage and cracking. The proper way to fill the pool is by using a hose that has a towel fixed to the end of it placed in the deepest part of the pool. The more hoses you have filling the pool the better.

Once the pool is completely full up to the tile you will begin the process of brushing the pool plaster. Purchase a nylon bristled pool brush to thoroughly brush the entire pool including the pool walls, floor, steps and seats. It is impossible to brush the pools plaster too much. It is best to complete this process at least three times a day. While you are brushing the pool it is normal for the water to become cloudy and filled with dusty materials. Continue brushing and maintaining the chemical balance as this will keep the dust from turning hard on the plaster. The pool should not be swept until all of the sediment is clear. 

The pools filtration system needs to be turned on right away after the pool has been filled. You should continue to run the filtration system non-stop until the water is completely clear. Run the pools bottom suction as well. Continue to check the pools filter and clean it often to ensure that debris does not clog it creating a problem with the system. Once you clean the filter be sure to restart it so as not to interrupt the filtration of the plaster debris from the pool.

One of the most critical parts in maintaining your pools new plaster is encompassed by the pool water chemical balance. It is wise to have the pool water checked daily while the new plaster is curing. Along with making sure your pool chemicals are properly balanced add a chemical into the pool water that helps prevent stains as well as acting as a metal magnet.

When it comes to your pools new plaster it is critical that you follow the above advice of brushing the pool, running the filtration system and chemical balance to the pools water. Following the advice above will help keep the pools plaster free of discoloration.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote visit http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Modern technology rescues backyard pool-time fun

Technology has made the world a very different place than it was just one, five or 10 years ago. Film cameras, handwritten letters and portable CD players, all have been replaced by newer, more efficient inventions. 

These advancements have improved so many facets of our lives, it really is no surprise that the latest technological breakthroughs have also hit the back yard pool. 

Pools have always provided their owners with a wonderful source of relaxation. Maintaining and cleaning the pool, however, also used to require real exertion and just plain hard work. Veteran pool owners remember hours spent trying to capture those elusive leaves with pool skimmers, or the sore back that comes from using pole vacuums and just the over-all poor performance of most suction cleaners. 

Fortunately, technology has improved the pool-cleaning process just as smart phones and other innovations have improved communication and, well, almost everything.

 Today, pool owners are increasingly opting for robotic pool cleaners, like the Aquabot, to handle the task of keeping their pools clean, making robotics  the fastest-growing category in the industry. So why are robotic pool cleaners so popular?

 Here are a couple of reasons: 

* They are affordable. While robotic pool cleaners are not completely new to the market, many pool owners had previously opted for pressure or suction cleaners because most robotic cleaners were just too expensive. Modern advances have helped bring the cost of these products down though, and robotic cleaners can now be purchased for as little as $299 for above-ground pools and just $399 to $799 for typical in-ground pools. 

* Reduced chemical usage. Many technology advancements come in response to consumer demands for healthier products, and this has taken place in the pool industry as well.  The Aquabot robotic pool cleaner for example carries the strongest vacuum pumps in the industry, removing more dirt and grime which reduces the amount of chemicals owners need to add to their pool. This makes for a healthier swim for everyone. 

* Easy to use. Smart phones are popular in large part because of their ease of use, and robotic pool cleaners now offer a simplicity all their own. To use a robotic pool cleaner, simply place the robot in the water, plug it in and press the button. The robot does the rest. 

* Environmentally friendly. In addition to being healthy for the body, many consumers also want products that are good for the environment. Robotic pool cleaners are more energy efficient than standard cleaning methods. For example, the Aquabot’s cleaning cycle uses 40 percent less electricity and costs just 5 cents per cycle hour. That means big savings for both the environment and your wallet.  Robotic pool cleaners are self-contained.  That means no hoses or costly booster pumps associated with pressure or suction cleaners. 

As with most technological advances, consumers who own pools are demanding products that improve efficiency and make life more enjoyable. For pool owners, robotic pool cleaners mean more time spent swimming in the pool and less time cleaning it. You can learn more about the Aquabot at www.facebook.com/aquabot. 

Original Source: http://www.seasidecourier.com/online_features/tech_talk_and_innovation/modern-technology-rescues-backyard-pool-time-fun/article_83390f00-0246-56f1-b523-76bead941103.html

Exploring The Advantages and Disadvantage Of Familiar Pool Types

When it comes to owning a pool, maintenance is key to the pool’s longevity.  One are that will require maintenance with your pool is the surface.  There are four main types of inground pool surfaces.  Before you install an inground pool it is best to know the advantages and disadvantages of the materials available.   Making an educated decision will prevent guesswork when it comes to the care of the pools surface.

Gunite Plaster Pools

A concrete, or gunite pool, is sprayed in concrete over a hole created for the pool.  After this initial process is complete plaster is applied using a trowel over the concrete to smooth out the pools final surface.  A deck surrounding a gunite plaster pool can vary along with the flow of the backyard.  A gunite pool can be placed virtually anywhere.

Advantages

• Can Be Any Shape or Size
• Custom Designed
• Designed to Fit Landscape
• Steps and Benches are Easily Added
• Permanently Installed

Disadvantages

• Labor Intensive to Build Initially
• Can Crack
• Regular Upkeep Needed on Plaster

Vinyl Lined Pools

Vinyl lined pools are created from steel walls that are lined with a vinyl liner that is the pools surface.  A hole is dug into the ground and the liner is fitted within the space. Decking can be installed around the pool and usually is a less permanent option than poured concrete.

Advantages

• Least Expensive Pool Option To Install
• Construct In Any Size and Shape

Disadvantages

• Expensive Upkeep Overtime
• Gets Wrinkled
• Color Fades
• Liner Pulls Away from The Steel Walls
• Tears Easily

Fiberglass Pools

A fiberglass pool is made from reinforced plastic and fiberglass.  It is molded into a particular shape, including a deep basin.  The pool is installed in a hole that is approximately the same shape and size of the mold.  Plumbing is installed and sand and filler is added around the structure to create backfill under the preformed base.  The pool is leveled out, hooked up and ready to be filled with water.  Most fiberglass pools will be surrounded by a concrete deck platform. 

Advantages

• Ease of Installation
• Versatile and Flexible
• Strong and Virtually Maintenance Free

Disadvantages

• Depth of the Pool is Limited
• All One Piece

Each type of inground pool material has advantages and disadvantages ranging from initial design, maintenance, expense and upkeep.  The decision on the type of pool you are looking to install will come from the time you are willing to wait for it to be installed as well.  Fiberglass pools can usually be built and ready to go within a few weeks where as vinyl lined pools take as long as six to eight weeks and gunite anywhere from ten to twelve weeks.  The most common type of inground pools in the north is gunite plaster pools and fiberglass.  Fiberglass tends to be easier to maintain but is limited in size and shape to what is manufactured.  Concrete pools with a plaster overlay are the most versatile but will require more upkeep in the long run.  

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote visit http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Basics for New Pool Owners

There is so much that you will need to learn as a new pool owner.  Whether you purchase a home with an inground pool installed or are having a pool installed you will need a crash course on pools.  In this article we will cover a wide range of topics from opening the pool, maintenance and closing. 

Most homeowners in the North use Memorial Day weekend as their pools opening date.  This is at about the same time the kids are getting out of school for the summer and will need something to occupy their time.  Opening the pool starts with gathering all the supplies needed.  Most pool owners will find having a storage shed is the best way to store pool chemicals and supplies together.

When opening the pool for the first time you may find stagnate water has created a puddle on the pools cover.   You will want to remove the water before removing the pools cover.  Once this has been done you will start to replenish the water, add chemicals to the water and connect the pools plumbing and filtration.  While you are doing this you should remove any large debris with a vacuum or skimmer so that the filter remains unclogged.

When it comes to maintaining your pool the chemical balance is incredibly important.  Without proper chemical balance the compound levels in the water will be unbalances and could create damage to the pools plaster surface.  It is also important when considering looking after your pool to check out the pools surface for cracks and signs of wear as well as the plumbing fixtures used to run the pool.  If wear is seen and replacement is inevitable it is simpler and more cost effective to do this prior to opening the pool for the season.

Daily upkeep, bug removal and chemical maintenance are needed throughout the season to ensure your pools longevity.  It is important that even when you are gone on vacation that your pool is being looked after.  Daily upkeep is essential to avoid any downtime enjoying the pool from improper chemical balance, algae growth and a nightmare with the pools vacuum upon your return. 

Closing your pool for the season is as equally important as opening the pool.  If done properly opening the pool in the spring will be a piece of cake.  When closing the pool the first item to take care of is the chemical balance in the pool.  Adjust the pools ph balance, alkalinity and calcium hardness.  This should be done about five days prior to the actual shut down of the pool. 

The pool also needs to be shocked using a strong chlorine solution that will kill all the bacteria living in the pool.  From here you should add algaecide to prevent algae from forming and to kill any that is already in existence.  Thoroughly clean the pool.  Remove and drain all pool equipment and store it in a dry place that is not exposed to winter elements. Drain the water in the pool to about a foot below the skimmer and cover the pool. 

For new pool owners it is best to hire a pool crew to open, maintain and close your pool for at least the first summer that you have the pool.  They can help you come up with a detailed plan of maintenance and walk you through the process in order to prevent damage.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote visit http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.