Tag: Coping - page 2

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/.

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/.

The first twenty eight days after your in-ground swimming pool has been freshly plastered are the most critical.  The pool plaster finish cures at sixty percent within the first twenty eight days of installation and continues to mature over the next ten months.  In order for the pools plaster to completely mature the pH, calcium levels and alkalinity must rise.  This must be checked regularly by the pool owner.  If these levels are kept properly the plaster will cure improperly.  The pools plaster will be rough, pitted and streaky.  In order to ensure the finish of your pools plaster is ideal homeowners need to be thorough when it comes to the maintenance and follow up while the pools plaster seals completely.

Pool plaster naturally drives the pH balance of the pool up.  In order to avoid problems it with scaling and hydration it is crucial that the chemicals in the pool water are kept in balance.  Most often the pools water will become stable about thirty days after the pool has been freshly plastered.  Homeowners must regularly test and adjust the chemistry of the pools water daily for the first few weeks after fresh pool plaster is installed.  After the water chemistry has become stable it is okay for pool owners to test the water weekly.

Proper Chemical Maintenance

• Before adding chemicals to the pool water make sure they are completely dissolved.
• It is important that you have a professional test the water before adding chlorine of sanitizers. Test the water within seventy two hours of the water being added to the fresh pool plaster.
• Alkalinity then pH: the waters alkalinity should be between eighty and one hundred twenty ppm while the pH is lowered to around seven point two.
• After the Alkalinity and pH are in check homeowners can add mineral cartridges and chlorine packs. It is crucial that homeowners shock the pool at the same time the mineral pack is added.  The pool should not be swum in until the pools chlorine level is below three point zero ppm after the water has been shocked.

While the plaster cures the pH levels in the water will rise. Be sure to test and maintain the proper water chemistry in the pools water throughout this period of time.   Clean the pool frequently by gently brushing the surface twice a day for the first two weeks after the plaster is applied.  Brushing the sides allows the plaster to mature properly while removing any loose plaster dust from the newly installed surface. With proper brushing and water chemistry the water will go from dusty to clear.

This process may seem like a lot of work however over the lifetime of the pool plaster it truly is a drop in the bucket.  Minutes a day for the first few weeks after the plaster is installed is nothing when it comes to the lifespan 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/.

There are many different materials for in-ground swimming pool surfaces.  Fiberglass, vinyl and plaster are all popular with pool owners.  Plaster remains the most common interior finish used when installing an in-ground pool.  You can choose from a variety of colors and additives to create a unique, durable surface.  When including additives into the plaster finish the pool surface is able to hide minor imperfections that can be found.  To ensure properly applied, cured and cared for plaster pool surfaces follow the suggestions below.

• Apply Pool Plaster During The Cooler Months

It is in the best interest of your new pool plaster not to be installed during the hot months of summer.  If you know that your pool is due for new plaster be sure to schedule the job to be completed before you open your pool in the cool spring months or before closing the pool in the cooler months of fall.

If plaster is applied to a pool during hot months it can prematurely dry out causing tiny cracks throughout the plaster surface.  Plastering a pool in cooler months allows the air to suck out the moisture slowly.  The perfect temperature to install plaster is between fifty and seventy degrees with above average humidity.

• Add Water To Your Freshly Plastered Pool Without Stopping

When a pool is freshly plastered it is best to call in a company that can bring in enough water to fill the pool all at one time.  The pool plaster will cure better then it is underwater.  Filling the pool slowly or is able to standstill for any amount of time you risk a line of dirt forming around the new pool plaster at the level the water has stopped.

• Keep The Pool Water Clean

While filling the freshly plastered pool and throughout the swimming season do your best to keep the water clean.  Leaves and dirt that is left to build up on the fresh plaster it will stain.  When cleaning the new plaster choose to brush the pool by hand daily.  For a few weeks after automatic pool cleaners can leave marks on the plaster.

• Maintain The Chemicals In The Pool Water

New plaster creates a water environment with higher than normal pH conditions.  During the first year with new plaster it is essential that you check the pH balance daily and add a pH reducer regularly as needed to keep the total alkalinity.  The calcium hardness should range between two hundred and four hundred ppm to prevent the calcium from being pulled out of the plaster.

• Acid Start The Pool After New Plaster Is Installed:

An acid start procedure is a method that lowers the total alkalinity level in the pool to as near as 0 as possible.  This helps the water to absorb all of the dust leftover by the plaster and cures the plaster quicker.

Now is a perfect time to set up a meeting to meet with pool plaster companies and choose one to schedule your pool plaster revival for the spring.

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/.

When it comes to how often a pool should be re-plastered the time frame varies between residential and commercial swimming pools.  There are telltale signs that your pool may be in need of new plaster.  The pools plaster protects the structural soundness while maintaining the look of the pool.  Most pool plastering companies recommend that commercial pools be plastered once every ten years.  However with residential pool plaster it is more important to look for the signs below as a signal that it is time to call in the professionals.

Mineral Stains

Pool water contains many different chemicals to balance the water.  If the water becomes unbalanced you will start to see stains appear on the plaster finish.  If the stains are appearing on a newly plastered pool surface you need to determine what chemical balance is off.  This way the issue can be fixed without the stain becoming permanent.  Most newly acquired stains can easily be scrubbed clean.

Exposed Gunite

In ground pools are constructed from a variety of materials.  Many residential pools are made from Gunite.  This is a material that is similar to concrete.  It is a strong material that forms the structural walls of the pool basin.  The pools plaster sits on top of the Gunite and acts as the waterproof barrier while also adding aesthetic appeal.  If you begin to see darker structural spots appear that is a sure sign that the plaster surface needs to be re-done.

Course Surface

A rough surface is the first thing most residential Gunite pool owners notice when they begin to suspect that the pool may need some attention.  If the pool surface is unpleasant to the touch or starts to snag your swimsuit the plaster is telling you it is time for you to call in the professionals to resurface your pool.

The cost of resurfacing a pool ranges between three to five dollars per square foot.  Different pool plastering companies charge different rates based on the plaster material used as well as the size of the pool.  Average residential pools are about four feet deep in the shallow end and eight feet in the deep end.  On average the pool will be about sixteen by thirty two feet.  Assuming the contractor charges you four dollars per square foot to replace the plaster of your pool, the entire job should cost right around forty five hundred dollars.

Summertime appointments for pool plastering fill up quickly.  If you know that your residential Gunite pool needs to be freshly plastered this year now is the time to get with pool plastering professionals to access what will need to be done and schedule an appointment to have the plaster redone.

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/.

A gunite pool, otherwise known as shortcrete, is a material used to reinforce pools structured out of concrete.  The gunite pool is strong and adaptable to a variety of unusual shapes and sizes.  Unlike fiberglass, gunite pools aren’t a one size fits all option in pools.  Homeowners looking to express their personalities in backyard design with an in-ground pool should consider using plaster, or gunite, to surface the concrete base of their pool.

In order to build a concrete pool with a gunite surface, the pool company’s construction team will dig a hole in the desired shape and size.  They will then place the plumbing and assemble the wire framework with a grid comprised of three eighths of an inch steel reinforced rods, otherwise known as rebar.  Rebar rods are placed about every ten inches and are held together with wire.  Once the grid is in place the pool company’s construction team will spray a heavy coating of gunite into the wire frame.  On top of the mixture of sand and cement around the rebar the plaster is put in place to create a finish.

The sprayer that is used combines the dry mixture of gunite with water before putting it into place.  This mixture produces a wet concrete material. The pool company will then trowel the gunite until it is smooth.  This mixture then dries for about a week and sits without being touched before the smooth plaster finish is applied to the rough pool surface.

A popular pool finish is plaster.  Marcite is a special finish that people use to complete their pools surface.  This is done using a special concrete paint.  The entire process of construction and installation of a concrete in-ground pool can take anywhere between thirty to ninety days.  This will of course depend on the local weather and pool installer.

Custom pools most often are created from gunite because it can be designed in any shape.  This makes it ideal for luxury homes that are looking to create a pool and landscape that is designed specifically to the needs of the designer.  When you are looking to create a natural pool gunite is the material that best fits this need.

Gunite pools can be designed to resemble a Florida beach or mountain side lake resort.  Vanishing edges, a sandy beach entry resembling the ocean or an exotic pebble finish are just a few of the many touches that can be added to create a custom pool.

The advantages of an in-ground gunite pool

• An in-ground pool made from gunite is a permanent structure that extends your home into your backyard creating an oasis. The property will have an overall higher value then other homes in the area without in-ground pools.
• A custom, personalized pool can be created from gunite. It may cost more and take a bit longer than fiberglass to install but the extra expense and time is all worth it in the end.  With the installation of a gunite pool you are able to customize each and every detail of the pool and its surroundings.
• Even if a plaster pool finish isn’t what you are looking for it is important to consider gunite as they can be finished with tile, exposed aggregate or even fiberglass.
• The most out of the box, unique ideas can be reflected in the design of your gunite pool. The concrete provides a highly durable pool that comes in any shape and size you can dream of.
• Gunite pools last a substantial amount of time. If you choose a plaster finish it is important to know that there will be maintenance involved.  The plaster must be replaced every ten to fifteen years to keep the pool looking as good as the day it was first installed.

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/.

You have decided to build a pool; in fact your dream pool is already built in your mind.  Now comes the hard part, getting the details on what is needed to build it.  An in-ground pool needs a foundation, piping and electricity to work.  After the basics are covered the goal for homeowners is to create a dramatic landscape around the pool keeping in mind safety and local, state and national rules and regulations.

There are various materials that can be used as the final layer of the pools interior.  The finishing layer of the pool is what is put on to create the water affect.  It gives the pool color and enhances the reflections of the lights surrounding the interior of the pool.  The finishing layer is also the layer that adds protection from slippery textures.  It is for your own benefit that you consider the material used to finish the pool.  Selecting the wrong material can throw off the entire pool and the feeling that you get when you use it.

It is also important to choose the correct finish for your in-ground pool as it will determine the level of maintenance required and the life span of the finish before resurfacing is required. Below you will find a list of pool materials that are used for pool finishes.  Research the advantages and disadvantages of each before you select the perfect material for your family’s in-ground pool.

Plaster:  Plaster is the most economical material used to finish the interior of in-ground pools.  The one disadvantage is the maintenance required to keep up on the plaster finish.  Plain white plaster when used on an in-ground pool finish needs to be reapplied every five to ten years.   It is important if you choose a plaster finish for your pool that you must take the time to keep up on the chemical balance within the pools water.  Discoloration, which makes pool unsightly if the chemicals are not kept up on in a plastered pool finish. It is important to know that pool plastering is a simple, inexpensive repair when needed for your in-ground pool.

Tiles: Tiles are a great pool material for the finish of an in-ground pool because of their increased lifespan over other materials.  They take more time to install than other materials although they tend to be worthy of the investment because they tend to be less expensive.

Pebbles: If you are looking for a natural appearance in your pool consider pebbles as a finish for the interior of your pool.  Pebbles can make the pool look like a lagoon or new rainforest.  Vary the aggregates used to vary the effect of the mixture. Pebble pool finishes are incredibly durable and resistant to the effects of chemicals used in treating pool water.  Another benefit of pebbles is that you do not need to use grout and they are resistant to staining.

Vinyl:  A vinyl pool finish is low maintenance and a good material that does not crack easily.  The lifespan of a vinyl in-ground pool is extensive as well.  The disadvantage with vinyl is that you are limited in the size and shape of the pool.

Fiberglass:  Fiberglass pools are expensive but are one of the best materials for in-ground pools because of how it feels on your feet.  Fiberglass is smooth and resistant to algae because it is non-porous. It is stronger than a lot of other pool finishes while remaining quite flexible.

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/.

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/.

One decision that seems to make everyone in a household happy is the installation of an in-ground pool. Once this decision has been made there are hundreds to follow in regards to the installing the pool. The decisions are endless when it comes to integrating a pool into your landscape. You want to incorporate the pool without hiding it or having it scream “I am here, in the middle of the landscape.” Here are a few tips to help homeowners make a few of the many decisions they will have to when adding a pool into their landscape.

What type of pool should be installed?

There are three main types of pools that are installed in-ground. Homeowners can choose between vinyl liners, fiberglass and concrete. All three materials have pros and cons. Out of the three most homeowners choose to install concrete poolsas this material can be produced in a variety of sizes, styles and designs. Even though concrete pools require the most upkeep and tend to cost a bit more than fiberglass or vinyl they tend to be the most popular because if you can dream it, they can make it. Concrete, also known as gunite, is incredibly durable and can easily be enhanced using color, quartz, glass beads and even pebbles. The repair most needed it to the plaster. Pool plastering can be done by hiring professional plasters.

What type of decking would best fit?

When considering the size of the deck error on the side of too much decking over not enough. There has never been a homeowner who has complained that their pool deck is too big. Small decks are inconvenient. When the deck is too small it is hard to relax or lounge around let alone entertain. The color and style of the deck needs to compliment the pool as well as your homes landscape and exterior. It also has to feel good on your feet.

There are several materials to use for our pools deck, each coming with their own set of advantages. Look into poured concrete if you’re on a budget, wood is nice if you don’t mind the upkeep, composite is beautiful but a bit costly, stone is great for a natural look, pavers are convenient and tile is picturesque. Whatever you choose make sure the decking material is not too slippery!

What type of pool fencing is ideal?

Like every other decision so far there are a number of fencing materials to choose from. When it comes to fencing you will want to find a fence that meets B.O.C.A. regulations and is in line with state, local and H.O.A. guidelines. Aluminum is practically maintenance free while being easy to install. It is the most popular option when it comes to in-ground swimming pool perimeter fencing.

Decisions both big and small are hard to make when they are permanent fixtures in your landscape. Take your time in analyzing how each material fits with the vision you have of the overall project.

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/.

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