Monday, December 17, 2018

Procrastinating On Closing Your Pool For The Winter

By now, most of us Northerners have shut down our pools in preparation for the winter season.  Let’s face it, unless you are a polar bear and enjoy frigid cold-water temps you aren’t going to be swimming after November. However, there may still be a few of you out there that have delayed the inevitable and need some quick tips to get your pool safely closed now that autumn has faded, and winter mayhem is knocking at the door.

In order to prepare your pool for winter, it is crucial to complete some very basic maintenance. The first and most important step in shutting down your pool involves balancing the water that will be left in the pool.  Not only is balancing the pH of the pool critical for the pools water clarity it is also crucial in increasing the longevity of the pool equipment.  A pH level of between 7.2 and 7.6 is suggested in order to keep the water sanitized throughout the winter months.

Another vital step is to finish the season with a clean pool.  Cleaning the surface of your pool will help to prevent permanent damage and surface stains on the pools plaster while the pool sits stagnant in the coming winter months.  All leaves and debris should be removed before the pool is closed to prevent difficulties removing them in the spring.Along with cleaning the pools water the pools filter should also be removed and fully cleaned.  This will help the filter in the spring to operate properly and avoid complications opening the pool.

When closing your pool for the winter it is also important to protect the pools plaster from the growth of algae.  Algae can quickly turn the cleanest of pools into a murky mess. There are a number of chemicals that can be added to the water to maintain an algae proof environment. 
If you haven’t figured it out by now, it is important to leave the water in the pool.  DO NOT EMPTY THE POOL! The water should be left above the skimmer box.  Keeping the water in the pool prevents putting a strain on the structure which could cause extensive, not to mention expensive, damage.

Once these steps have been completed it is important to further protect the pool from falling debris by placing a cover over the top of the pool.  This also will help to keep the water balanced.
Now if you haven’t, go close that pool!  Winterizing your pool makes opening the pool in the spring 100 times easier.  If this all sounds like too much to you it give us a call and we can help!
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 http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Friday, November 16, 2018

How Will I Know If It’s Time To Redo My Pools Plaster Finish?

There is one question we are asked more than any other.  Can you guess what it is? If you guessed, “When will I know it is time to re-plaster my pool?” you were right!
Unfortunately there isn’t one simple answer we can give you except that trust us, you will know when it’s time.  There is a great deal of difference between when a commercial pools plaster needs to be re-done verse a residential pool.  Most often commercial pools can expect to be re-plastered once every ten years.  However, when evaluating if a residential pool needs to be re-plastered a number of factors, not just time go into determining if a pool needs to be re-plastered.
When determining when a residential pool is ready to have its plaster replaced comes down to the aesthetics and structural integrity.

Aesthetics

Most often phone calls from residential pool owners start out with a long explanation on how the pool doesn’t look or feel right.  If a homeowner’s plaster has light staining it is possible that instead of fresh plastering that the stains can be removed through acid washing. Since pool plaster is a natural product it is impossible to prevent staining from occurring.  If the pool is white and the noticeable stains bother homeowners, we will most often recommend a colored plaster be used when the plaster needs to be refinished.

Some stains are from the minerals that are found in your water.  If this is the case homeowners will want to take care of the mineral problem in the water before re-plastering the pool.  Remember that minerals not only affect the homes water but can also leave build up in pipes and plumbing.  The issue must be addressed throughout the source of the water to prevent staining issues in the future.
Some stains on a pools plaster aren’t stains at all and are in fact from the combination of plaster and application of white coating.  There are variations that occur from a combination of things: variation in the mixture, the temperature at which it is applied, and the method of application.  Slight variations in the plaster should be considered normal.

The Touch of Plaster

The feel of the plaster is just as important as the look.  The pools plaster is supposed to be soft and smooth.  Pits and pockets can occur from improper water chemistry or from acid washing too frequently.  If etching occurs on your pools plaster the surface can feel rough, snag swimsuits and can give algae and dirt a place to hold onto. Another common reason for etching is a poor plastering technique or plaster that is too hot or includes too much calcium in cold water. If rough plaster occurs in a small, localized area, it can be sanded smooth, however if it is wide spread it is recommended to re-plaster the pool.

Structural Issues

Structural issues are another reason that residential pool owners need to consider re-plastering their pools.  “Structural” may be an improper term because as you know the structure of a pool is created from steel webbing and sprayed in concrete and the plaster is the outer, waterproof coating on top.  If a pool was left without the addition of a plaster shell the water would slowly seep through to the ground.  If homeowners start to see bare spots coming through the concrete it is time to have the plaster evaluated.  Large cracks in pools plaster can also be an issue structurally and should be addressed as soon as they are spotted.  Waiting gives the crack time to expand and larger issues to occur.

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 http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Winter is Right Around the Corner


When it comes to closing your plaster pool for the winter there are three goals for most homeowners:
  • Preserve the quality of pool water
  • Secure all pool equipment
  • Protect the pools plaster surface
Water freezes, it’s pretty simple.  When the temperature dips below 32 degrees Fahrenheit the water in your pool will begin to freeze.  When the water freezes it will expand.  Water that is allowed to freeze and expand without any special treatment given to it can cause homeowners a lot of grief in the from of busted plumbing, plaster cracks, and more.  The best way to prevent these issues is to follow a precise closing method when the season ends that includes draining the excess water from the pools plumbing.

When winterizing your plaster swimming pool one key element that must be taken into consideration is the need for chemically balanced water.  If the water is not balanced when you close your pool for the season there are a few issues that could arise including: build up and corrosion.  If water issues exist when you close the pool they will still be there when the pool is opened next spring which can make the opening process more difficult.  Stagnant pool water often “attracts” the growth of algae.  Chemicals also help to eliminate issues with pool staining from dissolving metals that are not being filtered.

Before the pool is closed down for the winter is crucial that homeowners not only take time to balance the chemicals in the pools water and include additives to prevent algae growth and staining.  Not only is balanced water important but also clean water.  The pool should be thoroughly cleaned and free of leaves, dirt, outside debris.  Any outside material left within the pools water has the ability to leave unsightly markings on the pools plaster surface. 

Another step that is super important when closing your pool is the water level.  The pools water level should be lowered below the skimmer and all plumbing, drains, and pool equipment should be drained.  Once the pipes are drained it is important to use drain plugs to prevent the water from seeping back into the plumbing.  DO NOT completely drain the water in your pool.  This is especially true when it comes to plaster pools.  Water needs to be kept in the pool to avoid under ground water from putting pressure on the plaster which would cause it to crack.  Although having a pool re-plastered is common, it is not practical every year and is not financially cost effective to have done on a regular basis.

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 http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Friday, September 14, 2018

The Perfect Backyard Enhancement: A Gunite Swimming Pool

Gunite swimming pools are one of the most popular options for homeowners.  Building a Gunite pool requires a crew to dig a hole in the desired shape, the installation of plumbing, and a rebar grid that is the framework of the structure.  The steel rebar frame is secured in place using wire.  Once this has been done a heavy coat of Gunite, a mixture of concrete and sand, is sprayed in between the rebar.

The unit that is used to spray in the Gunite mixes it with water just before it is sprayed which produces a wet concrete material.  It is then smoothed out and left to dry.  The Gunite drying process can take upwards of two weeks.  When the mixture dries it will be rough.  The smooth finish that we are used to comes from plaster that is installed over the rough concrete.  Although plaster is the most popular option in pool finishes, some homeowners choose to use tile, exposed aggregate, and pebble applications.

There are many advantages that come with having a concrete pool installed over other options available to homeowners.  It is not only an incredibly durable method of constructing a pool, it is also respected as one of the highest quality swimming pool construction materials.

Gunite is used more than any other material in both residential and commercial pools.  One reason that the combination of Gunite and plaster is so popular is because of its durability.  It is a material that hold up well in a number of different environments and is able to withstand high usage.
There are endless design options when you are using Gunite and plaster in creating a new pool, unlike fiberglass pools which are prefabricated.  The sturdiness of these pools comes not only from the concrete base and plaster coating but also the usage of rebar in the base structure.  Gunite pools are meant to last forever even if the plaster layer may need to be redone overtime.

There are many options to choose from when picking out plaster for your pool from traditional white plaster to quartz aggregate, there is a finish that will enhance your pool landscape.  Choose a plaster for your pool that takes your ordinary backyard pool and transforms it into something spectacular.  Colored plaster is a perfect option especially when the features surrounding the pool are not able to be updated and you need the pool to be the focal point.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Friday, August 10, 2018

Available Options in Pool Plaster

If you are one of the people that has managed to install a swimming pool in your backyard, you are living the dream of thousands upon thousands of people everywhere.  After all, who doesn’t love jumping into the water of a pool on a hot and sunny day?

While your pool may currently be in excellent shape, there will be a day when you need to do some pool renovations, especially with the pool plastering.  There are many options available to you when it comes to the pool plaster that can be installed during a pool renovation and you can choose the one that fits your needs the best.

Here are your available options in pool plaster:

Classic White

Classic white pool plaster is basically a mixture of cement, water, and white marble aggregate, and it is going to be your cheapest pool plastering option.  That cheaper price though is due to the fact that this pool plastering will deteriorate quicker from all the chemicals and means that you will need to have it replaced again sooner than later.

Include a Silicone Shield

You may want to have a silicone shield added to your pool plaster, as it creates a barrier between your pool plaster and the chemicals that you use.  That will make your pool plastering more durable and extend the time in between replacements.

Colored Quartz

Any concrete plaster mix can have colored ceramic coated sand added to it, and this colored quartz will not only increase the life expectancy of your pool, but make it look even nicer as well.  This option is more expensive than the classic white option as well as the option with the silicone shield, but the length of time in between pool plastering replacements can make the higher price tag worthwhile.

Pebbled

A pebbled pool plaster has had little pieces of round polished aggregates added to the plaster mix, and since those little pieces of aggregate is available in numerous colors, your color choices are greatly increased with this option.  This is one of the most durable pool plasters available on the market, and if you choose to have this pool plastering completed, it should be quite some time before you need to have it replaced.

No one really enjoys having pool renovations completed on their pool, because it means that it cannot be in use during that time.  However, once your new pool plastering has been put in place, you will be so happy with how your pool looks as you are swimming in it or simply sitting next to it.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Monday, July 9, 2018

What to look for when inspecting your pool?

Owning a home with an inground pool presents a unique challenge in itself in that you are responsible for all of its upkeep. It is far different from any other type of backyard pool that you might have had in the past. Unlike an above ground pool which has a plastic liner that actually holds the water inside, an in-ground pool is made of plaster, concrete or one-piece fiberglass.

The plaster surface is prepared is for the water to be added and the chemicals are added to be sure that it is ready to be opened up for the summers use. Even if the installation job was done perfectly there is always going to be a chance that damage will occur and there are several ways to determine if there is, in fact, a leak or superficial damage to the plaster on your pool.

What to look for when inspecting your pool?


There is actually a debate going on among pool owners regarding whether or not you should even have to regularly inspect the plaster or concrete surfaces of the inside of their pool. However, if you are one of those pool owners who regularly check your pool, do you know what you are looking for? Here are some things that you should consider paying close attention to:

Signs of delamination: Delamination is when layers of a composite material begin to separate which can cause a number of issues including water leaking out of your pool and looks terrible. Depending on where on the walls of the pool that you find them will depend on how much water you will have to drain.

Plaster Blisters: Finding bubbles or blisters in the plaster surface usually means that water got underneath the plaster layer that is applied over the concrete shell. These more than likely superficial and not a huge problem.

Deep cracks in the walls: Superficial cracks that only appear to be in the plaster can easily be covered over and water can be added back into the pool after letting it dry. However, if the cracks are deep enough and end up into the concrete shell underneath you will need to call in local professional.

Water seeping around the pool area: If you constantly are finding water in the area around the pool you might want to consult a pool professional.

How often should you inspect the pool?


There really is not any set in the stone schedule for how and when you should inspect all of the surfaces of your pool and all of the pool equipment. However, you should consider that your pool is a huge investment and major repairs and be extremely costly. So, if you were to set aside a few hours every year to give your pool an extensive look over in hopes to catch anything that is potentially problematic.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Pool Renovation Ideas That Impress

Having an inground pool in your backyard is an exciting upgrade that many homeowners choose.  Overtime however, the area surrounding the swimming pool can begin to feel drab, the aesthetics wear out and the initial installation and style of the pool becomes outdated.  Another issue that often occurs is that the amenities you want have changed and it is time to renovate and upgrade the pool area.  Don’t think that the only way to go is to demolish the exiting plaster pool and start fresh.  That in fact is costly and unnecessary when you can easily get a new look and features added that will bring your pool space back to an area you thoroughly enjoy.

Landscaping

The addition of landscape adds greenery and color to a space that is often skewed with tints of blue. Adding landscaping materials to the space can add to the aesthetics of the area and can take a bland space into a beautiful backdrop for fun in the sun.  When choosing materials to install within the landscaping search for plants and trees that can be controlled by proper trimming.  Find trees that do not drop leaves or pine needles into the pool.  Consider the amount of shade and privacy you desire as well as this should play a role in the selection of the landscape materials that you will choose.

Pool House/Cabana

The addition of a pool house or poolside cabana are both popular options.  Both options give families a place to stay out of the sun while enjoying the pool.  A pool house can also give extra storage for pool toys, chemicals, and necessary elements for maintaining the pool and the surrounding area.  A pool house can include a space for showering and changing as well which is perfect when you entertain a lot and don’t always want people trouncing through your home.

Hot Tub/Spa

An easy addition to the pool area is a hot tub or spa.  It can be easily added to the side of the Gunite pool There are a number of innovative styles to consider attached and detached.

Waterfalls

If you want to add a visual affect that will really wow your company the installation of a waterfall cascading into your pool is the way to go.  With the addition of natural materials such as rocks and boulders or ready-made waterfalls your pool area can go from plain and simple to majestic and visually spectacular.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Unique Finishes for Gunite Swimming Pools

Gunite is the concrete substance that is used to take the reinforced steel rebar structure that sort of looks like a pool and turns it into a swimming pool.  Gunite needs to be applied before pool plaster can offer a finish to the pools structure.  This material is great to use in creating a swimming pool structure as it offers reduces shrinkage and low permeability.

Pool plaster is a porous material.  The application of the plaster coating on top of the concrete base keeps the structure protected from the long-term effects of water.  Although plaster offers solid protection to the swimming pool there are times when a pools plaster must be reapplied most often for aesthetic and structural reasons.

The pools plaster surface is susceptible to staining from copper and iron, both of which can be unsightly. Once staining occurs there is only so much you can do with traditional methods including acid washing.  There are several different and unique swimming pool plaster finishes that improve a pools permeability including tile, pebble, and quartz.

Tile

The most notable characteristic of tile is its versatility and its ability to give your swimming pool and surrounding area a custom, one-of-a-kind look. Tile is also a long-lasting material that holds up well to natural elements and years of use. Glazed tiles, as well as glass mosaic tiles, offer a beautiful underwater shimmer, and reflective characteristics will make even the smallest pool seem larger and deeper than it is. Tile also comes in a wide range of rich colors and unique designs that will give any pool a unique facelift.

Pebble

A swimming pool plaster finish using pebbles can upgrade your pools aesthetic significantly. Pebbles are a popular aggregate Gunite pool plastering finish because they last longer than standard plaster and provides a beautiful, decorative, and compact, easy to maintain, finish that improves the appearance of any concrete swimming pool.

Quartz

Quartz aggregate is also one of the most popular finishes for pools for a good reason. Not only is Quartz a durable material that will stand up well to many years of use, but it comes in a variety of different hues such as light blue to a deep midnight blue that enhances a pools aesthetics and durability. Comfort is a major factor of consideration for pool owners and not only is a Quartz finish swimmer friendly, but It also has smooth edges without being slippery.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Thursday, April 19, 2018

Avoiding The 3 Most Common Gunite Pool Problems

Spring is in the air!  Now is the time that Michigan pool owners start to consider the shape of their Gunite swimming pools.  Depending on the age of your pool it is possible that after a long winter the concrete surface of your families in-ground swimming pool may need to be re-plastered.   It might be time to call in the professional pool plaster contractors at Pound Pool Plastering if you find any of these common problems for older concrete swimming pools:
  1. Extreme Surface Roughness

Concrete pool surfaces can become rough after time.  It’s time to re-plaster your Gunite pool when you feel like you need to start wearing pool shoes when you swim.  Rough plaster can come about because of age, increased pH, delamination, small cracks, or even climate conditions.  Any of these can begin to create pits and calcium nodules.  If a homeowner is experiencing any of these symptoms it is important not to put off re-surfacing the pools surface.
  1. Cracks from The Structure

There are two types of cracks that can occur on Gunite; one signals normal wear and tear while the other can mean it is time to have a pool plaster repair consultation.  A basic surface crack is not anything to worry about however a structural crack, a crack in the concrete shell itself, need to be repaired immediately.  Sometimes a structural crack requires the pool to be engineered properly before repair.  The swimming pool needs to be modified to withstand unstable or expansive soil conditions.  Once the structural issues are contained then the pools plaster can be re-surfaced, and cracks repaired.
  1. Discoloration

Pool plaster is very porous and is stained without much difficulty.  This occurs due to a variety of reasons including: a water-tile line not being installed, pauses in the water as the pool is being filled, improperly troweled plaster, or imbalanced water chemistry.  To avoid some of these issues remember to test the chemical consistency weekly and adjust as needed, make sure a water-tile line is installed and that when the water is filling the pool that there is never a pause in filling.  There are some stains and discoloration that can be removed through acid washing but sooner or later it will return, and the pool will need to be re-plastered.

The most common type of pool material found in the backyards of Michigan homeowners is Gunite that is plastered over to create a smooth, highly durable surface.  Plaster pools easily can go fifteen to twenty years before needing to be re-plastered, especially when cared for carefully.  For more information on new Gunite pool installation, pool plaster repair, or re-plastering contact the professionals at Pound Pool Plastering today at 248.476.4544.

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Challenges in Plastering Gunite Swimming Pools

A Gunite swimming pool uses a rebar framework installed underground. It is then sprayed over with a concrete and sand mixture that renders it 100% waterproof. Often this method is preferred over your traditional poured concrete pool that has a wooden framework to hold the basin.

Gunite is generally chosen over concrete as it’s much more durable and built to last. However, Gunite won’t last forever. It can also be subject to shoddy installation that can cause cracks or chips, so there are challenges in plastering Gunite swimming pools. If your pool needs repairs, don’t attempt them yourself. Hire a fully qualified pool plastering company to tackle your pool issues.

Your pool’s interior finish is essential for not only the beauty of your pool but to keep the exterior from leaking moisture that can cause heavy damage to your home or garden if not detected early. Gunite is one of the best plaster coatings as it keeps water from penetrating the concrete or other building materials of your pool.

Pool plaster comes in many forms to fit the aesthetics of the pool owner. It can be pure white or different colors. It may have quartz or pebbles blended in or have tiled surfaces. It’s the plaster that makes your pool visually appealing and is the first thing people will notice about your pool. It can also affect the appearance of your water, by making it appear bluer, and even how the water can glisten in the sunlight.

You should have your pool inspected at least once a year by a pool plastering company. It’s important to do this before you open your pool for the summer. Even a well-maintained pool will eventually show signs of aging and degradation. It’s a normal part of the outdoor weathering process. Generally, the average lifespan of a Gunite pool is about 7 to 10 years. If your Gunite pool also has a quartz aggregate blend, your pool may have another five years of lifespan.

Plastering Gunite swimming pools needs to be applied in the proper manner. Often complications can arise only a few months later if it’s not done right. You may see some issues such as stains, streaks, pits, erosion, cracks, and more. Another challenge in plastering Gunite pools is that if it’s not done properly it can also cause improper pool-water chemistry. This may occur from the first point when a pool is filled after having Gunite plastering done.

There may also be external factors that can impact your Gunite swimming pool that have nothing to do with how it was installed. Foreign objects can enter the pool and cause rusty spots. Garden hoses, children’s toys, and garden tools can cause rust erosion. Algae can also take hold within chips and cracks.

If you’re seeking plastering Gunite swimming pool services, contact a fully qualified pool plastering company so it’s done right. The last thing you need is a damaged or cracked Gunite pool before you’ve even had a chance to hop in and enjoy a swim.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Thursday, February 15, 2018

Pool Remodeling Ideas That Will Impress

Giving your pool that much-needed facelift has never been easy. Not only have swimming pool finishes undergone a massive remodel in recent years, modern pools have given new meaning to alfresco dining and a view to “die for.” Drab-looking pools are a thing of the past, and a swimming pool is not complete without the following embellishments:

Pool Plasters

The choices of residential pool plastering are now offering homeowner modern, reliable and beautiful swimming pool finish options that would put the standard white plaster to shame. While it has been around for as long as people have been building swimming pools and it arguably remains a popular and cost-effective choice, it is, however, susceptible to all weather conditions, especially for those of improperly maintained or fluctuating chemical conditions and will dissipate in appearances after a few years.

New generation aggregate pool finishes such as diamond Brite come in an array of colors and textures such as Aqua, Onyx, Pearl, Blue, Mohave, etc. that blend well with the environment to give any pool a luxurious surface that is resistant to chemicals and staining. The flex and colors of polished aggregates such as granite and quartz will give your pool a consistent, even luster that is durable and both etch and stain resistant. This type of finish also improves bonding and creates a smooth non-skid surface with less water penetration.

Options For Commercial Pools

Commercial pool plasters also offer tile band and coping finish options for areas on the top edge of the swimming pool with the most popular being pavers, tiles, natural stones like travertine and granite. Depending on personal preference, mosaic or ceramic tile band will add color, texture, and class to a pool and protect the waterline from fading and staining from the constant exposure to the sun and outside elements.

A pool is not complete without a finished pool deck, which can be achieved with different variations of ornate tiling patterns such as Mediterranean motifs, French patterns, or classical bonds. Glass tiles have been gaining popularity due to their aesthetics and resilience qualities. Not only do they not erode or stain, but glass tiles are non-porous and are resistant to moisture.

Adding Your Landscaping To Surround Your Pool

Having a water feature does add a touch of elegance and ambiance to your swimming pool area. Depending on what you have in mind, your pool and the surrounding landscape should have a luxurious air about it where you and your loved ones can enjoy and relax in. A great way to achieve this is by making use of flowers and foliage to create a variety looks and while at it, bring a little color, add texture and if needed, create privacy. 

Bamboo trees and palm trees are ideal for creating natural enclosures and for providing shade. Using ornamental flowering plants, grasses or cactuses can really transform a poolside into an oasis. Adding Downlights under miniature spillways will bring a soothing and spa-like atmosphere to your pool for those nights when you have friends over.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at www.pound-pool-plastering.com.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

How Can Homeowners Preserve Their Pool’s Plaster When the Pool Is Not In Use?

You’ve gone to the great expense of building a pool in your backyard and now you must do your best to maintain it. Often the first signs of aging in a gunite pool occur in the pool plastering. This can slowly wear away over time, until it reaches a point that your pool may suffer cracks or chips that can eventually lead to leaking. To avoid this, your pool plaster needs to be inspected monthly. But there are other ways that you can protect your pool plaster too.

Consider Climate and Weather Conditions

First, you need to consider erosion of the pool plastering. Many people with pools live in mild climates where they can have a heated pool twelve month of the year. Other homeowners live in regions that suffer harsh winters. Weather and its elements are perhaps one of the main factors in wearing away at plaster. Wind, rain, and snow can all erode that plaster away.  Think about the climate where you live, the types of extreme weather, if your pool is used year-round, and other conditions that might affect the erosion of the pool plaster.

The next culprit could be animals. Dogs or cats can play around your pool. Wildlife may be your worst culprit though. Rodents and birds can peck away at that plaster, making a few minor cracks and chips much worse by the end of the season. One of the best ways to protect a pool in the cooler fall months that lead into winter and through into spring, is a pool cover or pool tarp.

Install Pool Cover For Protection

A pool cover completely covers the entire structure of a pool. This helps to ensure that when the pool is not in use that animals do not have access to the plaster.  You know when it’s time to install a pool cover for winter when you no longer swim in it.  If the pool is in season year-round you may use a roller cover that is less permanent but that can help keep animals at bay as well.

Another benefit of a pool tarp is that it helps you to avoid that winter maintenance where you must skim the debris from the pool, or vacuum it out if there is no water in it. It’s not fun having to clean the pool when there is snow or ice outdoors.

You want to purchase the best pool cover or tarp you can afford. Many people put a small layer of water on top of the cover. This is to prevent large ice buildups in the winter. You’ll also need to ensure your cover stays secure from wind, and check it at least every few weeks during those inclement winter months.

Inspect Your Pool Before Opening Day

Once spring arrives, you’ll want to remove your pool cover and clean your pool. This is the perfect time to inspect pool plaster. Should you see any damage, such as chips or cracks, this is the perfect time to fix and repair any damage. Get this done before you fill up the pool for summer, as the easiest time to fix the pool is when there is little or no water in it.  Fixing a few chips and cracks in the pool plastering now will prevent you from having to do major repairs by the end of the year.

Pool plaster repair can be an inexpensive way to fix minor issues that come along with the surface, but not if you wait too long.  Waiting to fix repairs can lead to the entire pools plaster surface needing to be resurfaced, which can is obviously a larger job than minor patches.

Learn more about Pound Pool Plastering and their numerous pool plastering options including: pool resurfacing, plaster surfacing, commercial pool plaster, residential pool plaster, plastering swimming pools, tiling swimming pools, coping swimming pools, and more at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com./residential.php.  To contact our pool plastering specialists call 248.476.4544 today.