Top 7 Ways to Upgrade and Maintain Your Inground Pool

 

Owning a pool in Michigan is pure joy—fun, relaxation, and exercise all in one! But when it’s time for maintenance or a remodel, the options can feel overwhelming. Instead of seeing it as a chore, think of it as a chance to transform your backyard into a refreshed outdoor oasis. Here are seven key considerations for remodeling and maintaining your inground pool.

1. Prioritize Safety

Your family’s safety comes first. Essential features like ladders, railings, fences, and pool covers protect swimmers and help safeguard your investment.

2. Upgrade Your Pool Technology

Old pumps and heaters can waste energy and money. Switching to energy-efficient variable-speed pumps or modern heaters can reduce utility costs and keep your pool more eco-friendly.

3. Make Maintenance Easier with Automation

Pool automation simplifies care. From smart pumps and lights to automatic cleaners and saltwater systems, technology lets you control your pool from a remote, smartphone, or tablet. Less effort, more enjoyment!

4. Refresh Your Pool Surface

Resurfacing extends your pool’s life and updates its look. Consider plaster, tile, or decorative finishes, such as Aquavations Hydrazzo, SunStone®, and Diamond Brite® options, to bring elegance and style to your waterline. This is also the perfect time to adjust your pool’s shape or depth if desired.

5. Add Stunning Water Features

Waterfalls, fountains, laminar jets, and spouting sculptures add movement and beauty to your pool. Pair with natural stones or plants to create a backyard retreat.

6. Enhance Ambiance with Lighting

Lighting is both functional and aesthetic. Well-placed lights improve safety and create a welcoming atmosphere for evening swims or entertaining guests.

7. Extend Your Living Space Outdoors

Combine comfort and entertainment by adding features like outdoor kitchens, swim-up bars, or lounge areas. Think about what your family will enjoy most and design your backyard for maximum fun and relaxation.

Get Expert Guidance

Even small upgrades can make a big difference. Michigan pool professionals, like Pound Pool Plastering, specialize in plaster, tile, and coping to ensure your remodel is beautiful, durable, and tailored to your pool’s unique needs. Trust the experts to guide you through design choices, local regulations, and cost-effective solutions.

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Essential Pool Maintenance Tips from Pound Pool Plastering

 

Owning a pool is a joy, but keeping it clean, safe, and sparkling requires regular care. At Pound Pool Plastering, we know that proper pool maintenance not only extends the life of your pool but also ensures a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. Here’s a simple guide to help you stay on top of pool care.

1. Run Your Pool Filter Daily

Circulating your pool water is key to keeping it clean. Run your filter for at least 10 hours a day, ideally during daylight hours. The more your water moves, the harder it is for bacteria and algae to grow.

 

2. Brush and Vacuum Weekly

Debris can accumulate on pool walls and floors, even with a running filter. Brush and vacuum your pool at least once a week to remove dirt, leaves, and other contaminants.

 

3. Test Water Chemistry Regularly

Maintaining proper water balance is crucial. Test your pool two to three times per week for pH and sanitizer levels. Additionally, take a sample to your pool dealer every 4–6 weeks for a professional check.

 

4. Prevent Algae Growth

Algae prevention is easier than treatment. To keep your pool algae-free:

• Use a weekly preventative algaecide (follow label directions).
• Shock your pool weekly to eliminate contaminants.
• Maintain a sanitizer level of 1–4 ppm.
• Brush your pool weekly.
• Keep your filter running for a minimum of 10 hours daily.

 

5. Treating Algae

If algae appear, an EPA-registered algicide and a thorough shock treatment can be very effective. Ensure your filtration system is working properly—good circulation helps solve the problem and prevents it from coming back.

 

6. Backwash Sand or D.E. Filters

Backwash your filter when the pressure is 8–10 psi above normal, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Chemical cleaning twice a season is also recommended to remove oils and deep debris.

 

7. Clean Cartridge Filters

If your cartridge filter has a pressure gauge, follow the same guidelines as sand or D.E. filters. Otherwise, rinse the cartridge whenever the water flow declines. Like sand filters, chemical cleaning twice per season helps maintain efficiency.

 

8. Chlorine Shock Treatments

Shocking your pool removes contaminants and helps maintain clarity. Weekly shock treatments are recommended, and they are also useful for cloudy water or algae prevention. Pool water is safe for swimming once chlorine levels drop to 1–4 ppm.

 

9. Safe Storage of Pool Chemicals

Proper storage protects your family and your pool. Keep chemicals:

• In a cool, dry, ventilated space.
• Away from flames, heaters, doors, and windows.
• Separate from flammable or incompatible substances.
• Off the floor on shelves or pallets, avoiding contact with water.

 

10. Energy-Saving Pool Tips

Covering your pool is a simple way to save energy and reduce maintenance costs. Benefits include:

• Less water evaporation and heating costs.
• Reduced debris, leading to shorter pump run times.
• Maintaining water clarity with less filtration effort.

 

Properly sized and maintained pumps and filters also help maximize efficiency.

Keeping up with these essential tasks will ensure your pool stays clean, safe, and ready for fun all season long. For professional pool resurfacing, cement decking, coping, and more, Pound Pool Plastering can help!

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Pool Electrical System Maintenance: Ensuring Safety and Enjoyment

 

As the summer heat settles in, swimming pools become the perfect escape to stay cool and enjoy the season. However, amidst the fun and relaxation, it's crucial not to overlook the importance of pool maintenance—especially when it comes to the electrical system.

Over time, exposure to harsh weather conditions, including winter’s chill and corrosive environments like chemical storage areas, can take a toll on your pool’s electrical components. Regular inspections are essential for ensuring that your pool remains safe and functional, particularly when it comes to your electrical system, including ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and underwater lighting.

GFCIs play a vital role in protecting against electrical shocks by cutting off the electrical supply if a fault is detected. Testing these devices regularly is critical to ensure they function properly and provide the necessary protection. Additionally, inspecting all electrical equipment and lighting for wear and tear helps maintain smooth operation and prevents potential safety risks.

Proper grounding and bonding are fundamental safety practices for any pool. These measures help reduce shock hazards by ensuring all electrical paths are securely connected and grounded, offering peace of mind for pool owners and swimmers alike.

New regulations now emphasize the importance of regular electrical inspections to ensure safety and functionality. By keeping up with these checks, you can ensure your pool is a safe, enjoyable, and worry-free place for summer fun. It is recommended to hire a licensed electrician experienced in pool installations to ensure compliance with local, state, and national electrical codes.

At Pound Pool Plastering, we specialize in providing expert pool services, including gunite plastering and comprehensive pool maintenance. Make sure your pool is ready for a safe and enjoyable season by scheduling a thorough inspection today. Stay safe and dive in!

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Gunite Swimming Pools: Installation & Restoration in Michigan

 

Why Choose Gunite?
When installing a pool in your backyard, you have several options, but gunite swimming pools stand out as a top choice due to their exceptional durability and design flexibility. Unlike traditional poured concrete pools, which require a wooden framework to hold the shape, gunite pools utilize a rebar framework that is sprayed with a mixture of concrete and sand, creating a strong, durable structure built to last. This method allows for virtually unlimited design possibilities, meaning your pool can be shaped to fit any vision.

In addition to its durability, gunite provides homeowners with a range of customizable finishes, from plaster in a variety of colors to high-end options made from pebbles or glass for a unique look. The versatility of gunite extends beyond design, offering the option to add features like waterfalls, custom steps, and more. This flexibility allows you to create a pool that aligns with your specific tastes and budget.

Gunite pools have become one of the most popular choices for homeowners due to their beauty, versatility, and lasting durability. If you're considering installing an inground pool, working with a professional pool builder like Pound Pool Plastering, who offers clear building terms and a reliable construction timeline, ensures your project is completed on time and to your exact specifications.

Attached Hot Tubs: A Modern Touch
The combination of swimming pools and hot tubs has long been a staple of luxury backyard designs, and today’s trends are evolving. More homeowners are opting for hot tubs that are integrated with the pool, not just attached to the side but often elevated for a better view of the pool area. One of the latest innovations is creating a “hidden” hot tub design, where the hot tub seamlessly blends into the pool area, with walkways or negative edges to give the illusion of an invisible spa.

Hardscapes: Enhance Your Pool Area
While water is often associated with tranquility, the growing trend of hardscapes has added a bold new dimension to pool design. Hardscaping elements like pool decking and coping are no longer limited to traditional materials. Travertine, a natural stone known for its elegance and strength, is becoming one of the most sought-after choices due to its ability to stay cool even on the hottest summer days. For areas with high rainfall, pavers are an excellent choice for pool decks, offering enhanced drainage and minimizing moisture while adding a rustic charm to your outdoor space.

Incorporating these elements into your pool area ensures that your backyard is not only functional but also stylish, blending the beauty of water with the strength and elegance of hardscape materials. Whether designing a traditional or contemporary pool area, these options offer endless possibilities to enhance your outdoor living experience.

Providing a diverse selection of pool plaster finishes for both residential and commercial pools, as well as expert pool repair services. Contact Pound Pool Plastering today!

 

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.