Showing posts with label Coping. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Coping. Show all posts

Monday, June 26, 2017

Materials Involved In Pool Plastering



There are many materials that go into building an in-ground pool.  Few materials get as much attention as the pools plaster surface.  Plaster is the exterior shell of the pool.  It is the part that everyone sees and feels.  It is also the first place that people usually notice when it starts to deteriorate, cracks become noticeable and discoloration is visible.  Over the years we have learned some important tips regarding the maintenance and care for the pool’s plaster to keep it in top condition.

Fresh Plaster Maintenance

Your swimming pool installer will add chemicals that are required to initially balance the pools water.  They will then brush the plaster with a nylon-bristle brush which improves the quality of the plaster as well.  This will also prevent the buildup of calcium and other minerals within the pools water.

If you notice that you have fine sand grains deposited on the bottom of the pool this is more likely “precipitation” which is common with a newly installed pool or fresh plaster.  Our recommendation is to continue brushing the pool twice a day for the first seven days.

Your pool water and pH levels affect plaster.  It is crucial to the longevity and health of your pools plaster.  Pool water below 7.0 tends to erode & remove the smooth plaster surface.  Water that is above 8.0 contributes to the formation of scale and stains.

Calcium is another one of the key elements found in both your pool water and in your plaster.  A proper calcium balance is 250 ppm.  Too much calcium will cause deposits on the plaster of your pool.  Not enough calcium in the water may weaken the plaster.

Other Water Related Concerns

Dissolved Metal: Stains that cannot be removed with bleach are generally stains caused by metal.  When the water becomes saturated with any metal, like copper or iron, it will generally “precipitate” or fall out of solution in the form of a metal stain.  Copper stains usually reveal themselves as blue or blue-green splotches or streaks.  Iron will usually appear brown to black.  Check with your local pool specialist to purchase chemicals to help prevent these types of stains.

Mottling: Mottling can occur naturally in pools.  It is more evident in pools with colored plaster but not more prevalent.  There are strategies that can be put into place to lessen mottling including sequestering, chelating, or pH and calcium reduction.

Organic Stains: Plants that are near the pool area can often cause your plaster to become stained with tannic acid, which are brown, and chlorophyll stains, which are green.  Organic stains will not remain long due to the Chlorine bleaching them out.

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/.



Wednesday, April 26, 2017

The Various Pool Plastering Options to Choose From

Much like nearly everything that’s used every day, swimming pool interiors age and wear out over time. They lose their grandeur and slowly, they begin to appear unattractive. And, while an ordinary individual will most probably resort to the standard pool plastering options, a smart, savvy fellow will not settle for less.
There are many varieties of pool and spa plaster options to choose from, thanks to the plastering companies’ pursuit to offer more attractive alternatives. From those with colored aggregates to those featuring polished aggregate surfaces; nearly all of them add visual interest while providing the durability it’s needed. So, if you are looking to plaster or re-plaster your swimming pool, carefully consider the following options.
Which swimming pool plaster?
A classic pool plaster regularly incorporates white cement, a marble aggregate or the same color and water. And, that's why you will love the emanating brilliantly clean surface. This option is often revered as the most economical option for pool surfacing.
When various color pigments and dyes are added, the homeowner automatically gives the pool a brand-new, cool look. It could be from a classic light blue look to any other shade, including a midnight blue hue. Tahoe Blue is a term that describes the most economical choice for many and perhaps a preferred pool color, although it takes an effort to attain it.
Modern pool plaster additives
Silicone shield
Added to the mix, a Silicone shield not only gives the pool a million-dollar look, but also extends its service life. In fact, a great feature with this product is the ability to enhance the pool’s durability while ensuring that the crisp look is never lost.
Coloring
Pool plastering can take into consideration a host of dying options. The dye is added to the mix, of course, in varying quantities and then used in plastering. While there’s no problem using as many different colors as possible, attaining the uniformity needed isn’t a mere feat. And, it takes lots of skill and expertise to get dramatic results.
Colored Quartz
For a better flair and ultimate results, colored ceramic coated sand often comes into place. The colored quartz chips create visual interest while offering more color choices, and makes the pool last longer. The petite substances can withstand chemical deterioration too.
Pozzolans
As much as they dramatically improve the working of the plaster, Pozzolans don’t alter the way your pool’s plastering looks. However, it preserves the plaster, protecting it from etching and mottling. In the end, the pool’s surface will be smooth and durable.
Further options to check out
  • Pebbled type surfaces - round polished colored aggregates, they are manufactured in diverse industries.
  • Polished aggregate surfaces - crème of pool covers, this option blends longevity, color, uniformity, and variations to offer what every pool owner probably yearns for.
Painting and fiberglass aren’t the finest options and need lots of research and studying before they’re used. However, everything depends with how you loving the look of your pool.
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/.

Thursday, March 30, 2017

Surfacing In-Ground Pools With Plaster

There are a number of options when it comes to surfacing the interior of an inground swimming pool however plaster remain at the top of the popularity poll.  Pools range in color from classic white to a multitude of colors that suit that compliment the landscape.  Plaster remains an affordable option in pool finishing.  It is typically applied over a concrete base, known as gunite.
Pricing for plaster pools varies a great deal depending on where you are located.  When you look into hiring a company to plaster your new pool or to re-plaster an older pool there are a number of things to consider.  It is important, like in any home improvement project, to check contractor’s references before hiring them.  Ask to talk with individuals that have recently worked with the company to get their opinion on the work that was done, the customer service, work ethic, and professionalism.
Be wary of taking the lowest bid.  Be sure that the bids are all on an equal playing field.  Make sure all bids include the cost of materials, services and extras.  You need to be comparing bids based on an equal basis.  Lower bids may be the result of a contractor using lower quality materials that in the long run will affect the quality and longevity of your pool.
The most basic option in pool plaster, as stated above is, white plaster which is a combination of white cement, white marble aggregate and water.  This choice is the standard option that is included in most inground pool installations.  The classic swimming pool look including white pool plaster is the most affordable option for homeowners.  Before the numerous options available now-a-days white plaster was the only choice.  White plaster is seen in most commercial swimming pools.
The advantages of white pool plaster include that it is abundant, affordable and easy to install.  This is why it is such an attractive option.  The one drawback is that it tends to be a soft finish that is easily compromised by the effects of improper water chemistry in comparison to newer options such as aggregates and glass tiles.  Usually white plaster has a life span of five to seven years before homeowners will begin to notice pits and divots caused by erosion.   To expand the lifespan of your white plaster pool it is important to maintain the waters chemistry.
In our next installment on pool surface finishes we will look into options including colored plaster, quartz additives and glass tiles.
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/.

Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Resurfacing Your Gunite Swimming Pool

Residential pool owners don’t have any hard pressed rules to follow when it comes to how often they should look into having their pools plaster redone.  In commercial pool settings the general consensus is that the plaster needs to be redone every ten years.  Residential gunite pool owners need to be more conscience of the signs that their pool is in need of new plaster as the plaster is what helps to ensure the structural soundness of the pool itself.  Below are some signs residential pool owners need to keep an eye out for when it comes to redoing the pools plaster.

Staining

One of the most common complaints that homeowners have when it comes to their pools is that the plaster has visible stains.  No matter how meticulous a homeowner is when it comes to keeping the chemicals in the pools water balanced over time the plaster will show some staining.  Stains ruin the overall aesthetics of the pool.  If it has been a while since the pool has been plastered staining could mean it is time to consider looking into new plaster.  However, if stains are appearing only a few years after fresh plaster was installed then it is time to address the issue of where the staining is coming from.

Gunite Peeking Through

The structural shape of many pools is created from gunite which is a strong concrete type substance that provides the basin of the pool.  Plaster is then installed over the gunite to provide a waterproof protective barrier and visual appeal.  If the pools owners start to visually see bits of the gunite peeking through the plaster that is a sure sign that the pool is ready to have its plaster redone. 

Swimming Becomes Awkward

Sometimes the change in the pools plaster may not be visible.  If you notice that your feet are getting scratched or the surface feels rough to the touch it may be time to think about new plaster.  Another visual sign is when the pool surface starts to snag on bathing suits.  Rough plaster surfaces may be noticeable because of dirt deposits, cracking or patchy spotting.  If this is noticeable the pool should be freshly plastered.

Depending on the pool plastering company plastering a pool can cost anywhere between three and five dollars per foot.    With an average backyard pool being around one thousand eighty eight square feet it is safe to assume new plaster  will cost somewhere around four thousand five hundred dollars. 

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/.

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Winter Care To Protect Your Pools Plaster

Winter pool care doesn’t end by just putting the cover on it.  Care must continue throughout the off-season to assure that when the pool is open in the late spring that everything comes together as it should.  In this installment on in-ground gunite pool carewe will share the top tips in off-season pool care.
  • Add an algae preventative to the pool water that will function throughout the winter. It is best to add the algaecide to the pool on the last day that the pool is being used for the season.  After the preventative is added to the water you should run the pools pump and filter for twenty four hours to allow for the chemical to fully circulate.  The goal in the end is to keep algae at bay during the off season.
  • As pool owners close their pools it is crucial to drain all of the water from the pump, heater and filter. The pipes and motorized mechanical systems of the gunite swimming pool are crucial to the operation of the pool.  If water freezes within the pipes they are apt to break.  This can be super costly and time consuming for the pool owner.
  • In order to keep your pool clean during the off season it is best that homeowners keep their pools covered. Not only will a pool cover keep out the dirt and debris that comes from leaves, snow and other off-season debris; it will also keep children and toddlers from entering the pool.
  • To make sure that your pool is ready for opening day in the spring it is important to add chlorine to the pools water. Chlorine should be added in the fall and when the water thaws in the spring.  Don’t add to much chlorine though as it can and will eat at the pools plaster if not kept balanced.
  • The responsibility of owning a pool doesn’t end when you stop swimming in it for the season. Life will be easier for you when you re-open the pool in late spring if when the pool is closed that you keep the cover protecting the pool clean.  Sticks, leaves, stones and such can easily accumulate on the pool cover if allowed.  It is important that pool owners take some time throughout the off season to remove the accumulated build up of debris in order to protect the pool surface.
It is important to keep up on preventative maintenance, as a pool owner, even when the pool is shut down for the season.  Keeping the pool in top shape is a lot less time consuming and costly if preventative maintenance is kept up on year round.
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/.

Monday, October 31, 2016

How To Determine If It Is Time To Plaster Your Residential Gunite Swimming Pool

It is believed that commercial pools should be plastered about every ten years however with residential pools the answer isn’t as clear.  In this installment on pool plastering we will look at several signs that are dead giveaways that the pool needs to be plastered.  The pools plaster protects both the look and structural elements.  Watch for the signs below to know when it is time to call in pool plaster professionals. 

Over a period of time, no matter how balanced the chemicals in your pool are the minerals in the water will stain the plaster and change the look of the original plaster.  As this occurs it becomes more and more evident that the plaster needs to be replaced. 

Most in-ground pools are constructed out of Gunite, a concrete substance that is used to create the base of the pool.  The plaster is used on top of the Gunite and acts as a waterproof protective barrier that offers an aesthetic appeal as well.  When the Gunite begins to show through the plaster this is another sure sign it is time to call in the pool plastering professionals. 

If you notice that your feet are being torn up by the bottom of the pool and that swimming in the pool is becoming rougher and rougher to the touch it is a good sign the plaster needs updating.  Bathing suits will start to snag on jagged plaster edges when the plaster starts to wear down.  This may not be visible to the naked eye.  If you start to feel or see rough patches on the pools plaster it is time to plaster your pool.  Cracks, pits or patchy spots are all common when plaster has aged and is in need of replacement. 

Plastering your residential Gunite swimming pools costs between three and five dollars depending on a number of factors including: the contractors, the size of the pool, the climate, and the area in which you reside.  An average pool runs between four and five thousand dollars to plaster.

If you decide that this is going to be the year you plaster your pool it is best to get a call into the pool plastering company early in the season.  Depending on where you live the season in which you can enjoy your pool can be short.  If this is your situation you will want to have the pool plastered before opening it for the season to avoid any usage downtime.  Contact a reputable pool plastering company to come out and quote your project.  After you have several quotes and have done substantial research on each of the local pool plastering companies it will be time to schedule an appointment to have your pool plastered.

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/.

Monday, September 26, 2016

Caring For A Plaster Pool Surface

The initial period after pool plaster has been applied is the most critical time for the pools surface.  In the first twenty eight days the pools plaster surface cures approximately sixty percent.  The surface will take the next eight to ten months to finish the curing process.  During the curing process the pools water is known to increase the alkalinity, pH and calcium levels.  If this is left untreated the chemical imbalance could cause issues with the pools plaster including rough texturing, pitting and streaking.  In order to prevent this from occurring it is crucial to maintain the pools chemical balance.
Pool plaster that is in the process of curing will increase the pH balance of the water quickly.  Keeping the pool water in balance should be of the utmost important to prevent scaling and hydration problems.  If the waters chemical balance is properly handled the pH and alkalinity should stabilize in about thirty days.  Test and adjust the chemical balance of the water a few times per week for the first few weeks the new pool plaster is in place.  After that the pools water can be tested every week to be sure it is staying within the limits.
Pool Water Tips
  • All pool chemicals should be pre-dissolved before being added to the pool water. The chemicals should always be added to water.  Don’t ever mix the chemicals and then add the water into it.
  • Chlorine and other pool sanitizers should not be added to the pool water, after plastering, until the water has been tested and seventy two hours has past. The personnel at the pool store will give you instructions on any additional testing that should be done.
  • Make sure that you get the pools alkalinity is in check and then adjust the pH. The alkalinity should be between eighty and one hundred and twenty PPM and the pH should be lowered to around seven point two.
  • Replenish the sequestering agent that was added to the pool on start up that took metallic contaminates that are un-filterable and made them able to be filtered. This will help to prevent staining and scaling.
  • Remember not to swim in the pool until the chlorine level drops below three ppm.
The pool should be gently brushed twice a day for the first two weeks after the plaster has been applied.  It is important that the pools pores are kept open to allow for proper curing and helps loosen any plaster dust from settling in on the plaster surface.  The water may become dusty after the brushing is done but will eventually go away.
With some simple maintenance and care you can extend the lifetime of your pools plaster.
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/.

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Options In Pool Plastering

The options in pool plaster have long moved past the days of white plaster.  Company’s offer pool plastering services today still offer good old fashion white plaster, color additives and colored aggregates that add visual appeal, increased strength and increased client satisfaction. The combination of plaster options is endless; each offering a unique perspective and appeal that is as distinct as the landscape surrounding the pool.
A pools plaster can last for many years meaning that most homeowners will not have to concern themselves with plaster options too frequently.  Eventually the corrosive chemicals and water begin to deteriorate the pools plaster surface.  Thus making the surface rough and staining more difficult to remove.  This is when homeowners know it is time to upgrade the plaster on the pools surface.
The pools plaster is the waterproof coating that is added on top of the gunite shell.  The plaster is intended to slowly wear.  In most cases the plaster is not replaced to retain the pools structural integrity or retain waterproofing but instead to enhance the pools appearance.   Stained, rough, pitted plaster surfacing is the reason most residential and commercial pool owners choose to resurface a pools plaster.
There are many additives that can be used to enhance your pool.  Basic white pool plaster is a combination of cement and marble dust.  This combination is often referred to as marcite.  When mixed together with water and binding additives it is sprayed on a prepped surface and smoothed to perfection.
Color additives can be added to the plaster to produce different results.  Popular color choices are hues of grey and blue.  Colored quartzite chips can be added to plaster to create visual attraction and more durability.  These colored quartzite chips are used to hide imperfections and be more resistant to the deterioration from chemicals.  Pozzolans are added to plaster but go undetected visually.  This additive locks up calcium hydroxide and prevents its reaction to other chemicals.   This allows for the plaster to remain smoother and last longer.  One last additive we will talk about is silicone shielding.  This is used to reduce staining by basically waterproofing the plaster.
Exposed aggregates such as pebbletec and beadcrete are used to create a bumpy texture and slip resistance nature to the surface.  Both products add a visual appeal that cannot be reproduced with regular plaster.  Pool owners looking to enhance the landscape of the pool can do so using either of these products.
There are so many choices beyond white pool plaster.  Be sure to check with your local pool plastering company to find an option that works to enhance your pool environment.
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/.

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Three Common Interior Surface Options For Your Pool

In pools there are three recommended surface options that are commonly used to update the interior surface: plaster, quartz and pebble. Quartz and pebble finishes were created to counterbalance the deficiencies found in plaster. No material is perfect when it comes to the interior surface of a pool. In looking for a material to use as your pools finish compare how the three of them stack up against each other.

Plaster: Both residential and commercial pools are most commonly surfaced with white pool plaster. The finish is smooth and the white plaster often turns the water a radiant blue color. There are a number of other color choices when it comes to pool plaster but white is the most common choice to install.

Plaster is the most inexpensive material to use in resurfacing a pool however it is not always the hardiest of options. Plaster is a combination of white cement and marble dust. The surface is naturally porous which makes it more vulnerable to stains and growth of bacteria. Plaster surfaces require more chemicals to keep the water chemistry balanced. A brand new plaster pool surface lasts about five to ten years with proper care.

Quartz: Another common material used to surface the interior of the pool is quartz. The quartz aggregate material is mixed in with plaster and offers multiple benefits including that it is hard and non-porous which makes it stain resistant. Quartz is a longer lasting, durable surface over that of conventional white pool plaster.

Another benefit of using quartz in surfacing pools is the variety of colors it comes in. It is a bit more expensive than traditional pool plaster however you can expect the lifespan of the surface to increase five to ten years over conventional plaster.

Pebble: A pebble interior pool surface is a mixture of plaster with pebble aggregate. The pebbles will actually cover most of the pools surface. The greatest benefit of pebble aggregate is that it is the most stain resistant and durable within the pool industry. A pebble surface is more expensive then plaster alone. A pebble surface lasts upwards of twenty years if it is well maintained.

Most pool plastering companies have a variety of pool surfaces available for consumers to choose from. Unique finishes and a variety of colors can create an interior pool surface that will make any residential or commercial pool more visually appealing. Traditional plaster is a good inexpensive option with a traditional look, quartz is a strong, non-porous option with a finish sprinkled with glitz and bits of color and a pebble finish looks like a stony riverbed with increased stain resistance that is long lasting. All three finishes on a pools interior surface are good choices.

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/.

Thursday, May 5, 2016

Leave Pool Plastering To The Experts

Certain projects around the home need to be left up to the experts.  Pool owners need to understand a pool that is plastered incorrectly will end up costing more to operate.  In-ground pool maintenance needs to be performed by professionals.  Plastering is just one of the several pool maintenance jobs that need to be left to the professionals.  Many homeowners attempting plaster their own pools end up realizing the job is over their heads costing them almost double what it would have leaving it up to those skilled in the art of pool plaster.
When a pools plaster or colored aggregate plaster has been applied incorrectly homeowners naively waste money every day.  Pools without completely smooth plaster require the pump to run longer and require more chemicals to keep the pool water clean.
When a pool is plastered correctly the maintenance required on the swimming pool is less.  A quality plaster finish on your pools surface will not allow algae growth no matter how poorly a homeowner maintains their pool.  A superior plaster finish on your pools surface means fewer chemicals, less circulation and lower maintenance to keep the swimming pool looking great.
The craftsmanship that professional pool plasters can give to the finish of the pools surface makes all the difference.   A homeowner could use the same exact aggregate plaster that a professional uses however it will never be the same finish.  The workmanship a professional pool plaster company offers over that of the do it yourself homeowner is bar none.  A professional leaves a highly smooth surface that doesn’t give algae and debris a proper environment to flourish.
Rough aggregate plaster is the perfect setting for algae growth.  When algae is given the proper ecosystem, such as that found with incorrect plastering it costs homeowners extra money to run the pools pump and treat the pools water with chemicals.  Rough pool surfaces need extra attention to maintain cleanliness; where as a smooth plaster surface takes less attention and maintenance to stay spotless, free of dirt and algae.
If your homes in-ground pools plaster needs to be redone make sure to hire an expert to ensure that the craftsmanship is up to the high standards only a professionals experience provides.  Commercial and residential pool plastering companies decrease the maintenance needed to keep your pool looking as good as the first day the fresh plaster was installed.  Certain updates around the home are all the same no matter if it is done by DIY homeowners or professionals; a pools plaster is not one of those!
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/.

Friday, October 30, 2015

Options In In-Ground Pool Resurfacing

In time everything wears out.  Swimming pool interiors are no different; over time they too will wear out.  The one positive is that there are a variety of options when it comes to resurfacing the pool.  Most likely more options now than when the pool was first installed.  A brand new pool finish can significantly increase the appearance of the pool for the better.  The downside is that all those options make it difficult for pool owners to choose what is best for their pool.
Swimming pool resurfacing is not a cheap renovation project neither is pool ownership for that matter.  The cost of resurfacing the pool is dependent upon a number of things such as the location in which you live, the condition of the pool and the material you choose to resurface the pool with.
The most common option in pool resurfacing is plaster otherwise known as Marcite.  This is the common finish for most residential concrete, gunite, pools.  Backyard swimming pools use plaster largely is because it is durable and cheap.  It is not the most attractive option but it does produce a clean, classic look.  Plaster is also available in a number of colors that help to offer a variety of affects.  Be careful when choosing colors other than blue and white as an offbeat color can affect the final result in a way that is not always positive.
Paint is used for pool resurfacing but is not a long term option.  High-quality epoxy paint can be easily applied and is affordable but is not a viable choice for pool surfaces that are severely run down.  Painting the pools surface is a quick fix to buy you additional time.  Use this option if you need to save money up until you can plaster the pool with Marcite.
Fiberglass resurfacing is an option.  Don’t confuse resurfacing with fiberglass with the installation of a fiberglass shell.  This resurfacing option is not available in all parts of the country.  It is also an incredibly controversial technique within the pool industry.  Be extra careful if you are considering this option in pool resurfacing for your backyard pool.
Aggregate, although a current trendy option is incredibly pleasing to the eye.  Resurfacing with aggregate is what is accomplished when you mix plaster with pebbles or quartz.  The aggregate finish is colorful and long lasting.  The one downside is that it is a bit more expensive than ordinary pool plastering.
Tile is another option in plastering your pool.  This is considered a luxury option for pool owners.  Covering pool interiors with tiling is expensive because of the material and labor involved.  If cost is not an option go with tile for resurfacing your pool.  If you have to ask about the expense then tile is probably not an option to consider.
Pool resurfacing is a common improvement that is needed overtime when you own a pool.  It is important to know your choices and make a decision based on what you can afford as well as the aesthetic value of the material you choose.
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/.

Monday, August 31, 2015

The Importance of Swimming Pool Maintenance

If you are a pool owner who ignores regular maintenance and cleaning it is possible that algae will build up.  If there is an algae build up on the pools surfaces it will become unsafe for people to use it.  If you choose not to perform regular maintenance you are also asking for future repairs and expenses that are avoidable.  If you are looking to keep your pool in tip top shape but want to avoid the extra work it is best to hire an expert in pool maintenance to open your pool, clean the pool regularly and close the pool at the end of the season.
Swimming Pool Maintenance is Crucial
All in-ground swimming pools, especially gunite pools with a plaster surface, need regular maintenance.  Even if your family is not using the pool on regular basis upkeep is necessary.  It is necessary to shock and sanitize the pool water in order to keep it safe and clean.  When this process is not done regularly the water can hold bacteria therefore making diseases more communicable.  Chlorine treatments break down the bacteria buildup.  Shocking the pool frequently, even when the pool is not being used every day will prevent illness from spreading from the water in your pool.
Not only does the water need to have chlorine added and water shocked regularly the filter and pump systems also need to be cleaned frequently as well.  As a pool owner you need to also check the performance on the pump system and make sure the water pressure is normal as well.  These pieces all work together to prevent future issues.
When we are talking about regular analysis of the chemistry of the pool water we are talking about testing the water twice a week throughout the summer.  Check the waters alkalinity and pH balance; if you need to add chemicals be sure to do so in the evening when the pool is not in use but the systems can be run to help cycle them.
At the opening and closing of the pool for the season certain maintenance should be scheduled as well.  When opening the pool in the spring and closing it in the fall you need to analyze the pools plaster.  Check the pools plaster or leaks and cracks.  Check the tile out around the pool for damage as well.  In order to keep the plaster and tiles in shape regularly clean those to prevent any algae build up.  You can do this by brushing the surfaces and vacuuming the debris that has built up.  An abundance of leaves and bugs should be cleared using a skimmer to clean the surface.  If you live in an area where this is really troublesome consider enclosing the area with a screen enclosure.
Keeping up on your pool maintenance is one of the key elements in the usability of your pool.  Without regular upkeep pool owners set themselves up for larger more time consuming, expensive repairs later on down the road.
Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming poolsincluding coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Decisions In Finishing Your Pools Interior

Are you dreaming of an in-ground pool for your backyard?  There are many details to consider when installing a pool.  A solid foundation, piping needed for the pools water system and electricity are crucial decisions and details that need to be considered and worked out before ground is broken for the installation of your new pool.  After working out the crucial details that affect the longevity of the pools structure it is time to consider the dramatic affects that will make your pool area aesthetic and not to mention protected.

Various materials can be used as the final layer over the gunite structure of your pool.  The interior material of the pool is what creates the unique visual aspect of your pool.  Not only can it offer color it enhances the reflections around the pool area and enhances the benefits derived from the interior.  Another detail that is provided by the interior material of your homes pool is texture.  You need to choose a material that adds a desirable amount of texture as well to help create a safe, slip free pool interior.

Various pool materials need special care as well. When considering the material to install within the interior of your pool take into consideration not only the appealing nature of the materials but also the maintenance, up keep, life span and cost of replacement.  Below you will find a detail of materials available to create the outdoor space you have been dreaming of.

Tile:  Using tile on the interior structure of your pool is a popular option that can add a lot of flair to your pool.  If the exterior landscape of your pool area is simple this is a great way to add some flair without adding a lot of maintenance to the area.  Tiles offer a longer lifespan than many gunite pool interiors but can be timely to install.  This is countered by the cost saving advantage that comes from using tile for the interior surface of your pool.

Pebble: If you are looking for a natural material feel to your pool are pebbles are the way to go.  Picture in your head the look of a lagoon, a waterfall with a picturesque waterfall.  This is the effect achieved when using a mixture of aggregates.  Using pebbles is a great option to avoid the use grout and the aggregate is highly durable and resistant to stains as well as to the chemicals used in treating your pool’s water.

Plaster:  Plaster is the most popular option in pool interiors.  It is the most economical way to achieve the luxury of owning an in-ground pool.  When the plaster needs to be replaced it is a simple manner in which experienced pool plasters can do without a lot of downtime.  If you choose to use plain white plaster in the pool the water is beautifully enhanced by the natural color of the sky, sun and surrounding landscape.

Vinyl:  Vinyl is a low maintenance option for an in-ground pool.  Vinyl can be used to design basically any shape or size pool you desire.  They do not crack easily and have a long life span due to the ability to flex and resist the affects of ground movement.

Fiberglass: Fiberglass is the priciest option in interior pool materials.  Fiberglass offers a smooth surface that feels great on your feet.  Because fiberglass is non-porous it is resistant to algae growth.  It is also said to be stronger than many other types of pool finishes.

There is a lot to think about when designing and installing an in-ground pool.  Every decision you make will come with pros and cons.  You need to weigh them, over the cost of the project to build a dream recreation area within your allotted budget and time frame.

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/.