Pools are not meant to freeze; if they do, substantial damage can result. As water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on various pool components such as pipes, filters, tubes, and pumps. These delicate aspects of a pool are not made to withstand heavy pressure, so they will inevitably crack or break. Repairing broken pool parts can be costly, depending on the damage. 

When a pool freezes, the pipes that transfer water to and from the pump and filter system are especially vulnerable since they can crack or burst under pressure due to ice. Another issue when frost or a heavy freeze hits a pool is that the filter system can become clogged and damaged. 

Moreover, the pool pump can get ruined in freezing temperatures. The pump is what circulates water throughout the pool. If the pump gets damaged, the pool will not adequately circulate, causing blockages. 

Lastly, freezing temperatures can be responsible for ripping, cracking, or rupturing the pool liner. This is a particularly expensive aspect of the pool, as it is a crucial component that holds the water in place. 

Power outages can also be detrimental to a pool during a freeze. If pool owners are unable to utilize electricity to keep their pools running/warm, severe freeze damage can result. 

To reduce the risk of freeze damage to pool equipment, take notice of the following: 

Run the Pump
Ensure all pumps are running while temperatures drop below freezing. If a controller is equipped, it should automatically take over, turn on the pumps, and rotate between pool/spa mode. If there is no controller on your pool, you will need to shift through this process on your own manually.  

No Power
If you lose power to the pool and temperatures are below freezing: 

• Turn off all pool equipment breakers 
• Open the filter air relief, removing the drain plug
• Open and drain the inline chlorinator
• Turn off auto-fill, making sure the feed line is wrapped 
• Open the salt cell and remove water inside the pipe
• Remove check valve lids
• Unplug and remove salt chlorine generator cells

Always call your local pool professional for assistance if needed. To avoid damaging the equipment or pool itself, it is imperative to meticulously handle a pool freeze situation.

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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 e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

The pool industry is forever evolving, so why isn’t your dated pool? Many homeowners are adding or removing pools, but a large number of pool owners simply want a pool “facelift.” Often, homeowners who remove pools do not wish to remove them completely; rather, they need to do a remodel for one reason or another.

A growing number of pools are removed for a remodel and added again with a new tile design, layout, shape, etc. Along with the pool renovation usually comes a backyard redesign. If a pool is shining from a fresh, new look, the rest of the backyard shouldn’t be dull and dreary. 

If you are thinking about adding a gas fire pit next to your pool, a state-of-the-art BBQ station, TV, etc., the ideal time to do that is while your pool is being redesigned. 

Creating an inviting and modern space is possible with the right vision. Pools are timeless, and while most tile can stand up to the test of time, it isn’t always aesthetically pleasing when it comes to modern changes and updates throughout the backyard/home. 

Many swimming pools built in the 1960s and ‘70s were based on templates. In the 1980s, custom pool design became more popular. What was once constricted by templates was now open to possibilities, and freedom of expression really blossomed during this time. 

Now, many older pools that are cracking or leaking need repair, and the more recent pools might be fine physically but are not aesthetically pleasing as they once used to be. 

Re-plastering, tiling, coping, or caulking pools can create an astounding result, but why stop there? Examine your backyard and hire a landscape designer to help make your vision real. Find like-minded professionals with the aptitude for building precisely what you are looking for.

If you are looking for a pool redesign, look no further than Pound Pool Plastering. We have the professional wherewithal to transform your dreary pool into a sparkling vessel. 

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 e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Though your swimming pool might be the last thing on your mind during the winter, it’s important to take note of how the snowy, icy weather can impact it. Read on to discover some tips to help keep your pool health in tip-top shape during the winter. 

Remove Heavy Snow
Occasional light snow is no issue, but if heavy piles of snow weigh down your pool cover, it’s cause for concern. Use a soft broom or skimmer net to push as much extra weight off as possible. Do not step on the cover, even if you think the water below is frozen. 

Protect from Freeze
If you haven’t winterized your pool, be prepared with a backup plan in case it freezes suddenly. If all the pool equipment is still connected, run the pump at high speed until the freezing temperatures have passed. Do not attempt to use a portable heater, heat lamp, or electric blanket to protect the pump or filter. These tools can damage equipment and start fires.

Create Boundaries
One of the best ways to avoid accidents and prevent anyone from accidentally stepping onto the pool cover is to set lightweight objects (think rubber or plastic cones, empty buckets, etc.) around the edges and corners to help identify the area.

Check for Rips
Tree limbs can accumulate heavy snow or ice and crack, landing on your pool cover. Remove them as soon as possible and thoroughly check for cover damage. Rips or tears can allow debris and foreign material to leech into the pool. Smaller tears can be patched, while larger or multiple rips require replacement. 

Secure the Cover
Make sure your pool cover is tightly secured to your deck or yard area and that all unsecured items, such as patio furniture, are safe from being blown about. 

To winterize your pool in an emergency, turn off the circuit breaker and open the air relief valve. Then, remove the top from any valves full of water and set your multiport valve to “winter.” Place air pillows, inflatable pool floats, or empty plastic jugs in your pool to protect your tile line from ice expansion. Use a weighted, plastic drink bottle into the skimmer to avoid damage, and wrap a towel around the vacuum breaker of your auto-fill mechanism for insulation. 

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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 e-mail us for a free estimate. Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

The process of capping a pool shell wall with poured concrete or tile/natural stone is called pool coping. The coping is the edge of a pool that directly hangs over the water, where people usually sit to place their feet or pull themselves to the edge. 

Coping protects the pool edging and is generally about twelve inches. It separates the pool structure and the decking; it’s also used as a pool frame. Since the deck is separated from the pool, it can be moved without impacting the pool. Bond beams must be mounted prior to installing coping, which hides the edges of the pool’s walls.

Specialized materials such as vinyl decking, brick, and flagstone can be installed as coping to help guide water into drains. Coping is also used to provide non-slip surfaces around the pool’s edge to prevent accidental falls. Some popular pool coping materials include: 

Concrete
The most popular material used for coping, the timeless look of concrete provides a smooth transition between the pool and deck. Concrete can help give the appearance of a larger surface area and is the cheapest option for coping. Concrete is easy to walk on as it does not get too hot in high temperatures, it’s easy to clean, and can blend in well. 

Natural Stone
More expensive than concrete, these handsome stones are aesthetically pleasing and offer more grip than other coping materials. The types of stones used for pool coping consist of fieldstone, limestone, granite, and travertine. These stones are naturally heat-resistant as well. 

Brick
One of the most common materials used to provide landscaping, brick is an aesthetic that blends in well. Though the price of brick can waver depending on color, shape, and variety, it is easy to walk on and less expensive than natural stone. 

Pavers
Less likely to crack than a traditional slab of concrete, pavers are an easy option that’s readily available. A huge benefit of pavers is that they can easily be replaced and are less likely to crack since they are individual pieces. 

If your pool coping is cracking, tiles are breaking, or the deck is higher than the pool, these are signs it needs to be replaced. The best pool coping material varies based on the homeowner’s needs, budget, and taste. Research thoroughly before making a final decision. There are plenty of affordable options for coping upgrades. 

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools by 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 e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

With proper maintenance, swimming pools are immensely strong and can last for several years. Pool cracks can usually be found on the surface of the pool in the plaster and generally do not run through the entire pool. These cracks can be normal or unusual, but can you tell if the pool itself is in danger of leaking? Keep reading to learn how to manage pool cracks. 

Shrinkage cracks are normal and shallow, typically found on the surface. They usually develop after the curing process and can be easily repaired. Structural cracks, however, run through the entire pool and can be a sign that the pool is leaking or will soon leak. 

There are three main reasons for pool cracks. They include: 

Faulty Design or Structure
Structural cracks are serious and should not be overlooked. They are usually evident in uneven pools, which directly result from improper engineering. If a pool is incorrectly created, the likelihood of a crack increases tenfold. Retaining walls, water weight, concrete or tile areas, and more are all susceptible to failure if the engineering is not up to par. 

Soil Testing
One of the first flaws of pool engineering coincides with structural issues such as loose soil, soil movement, earthquakes, clay, and more. Testing the soil for soil-bearing capacity and stability prior to pool installation is imperative to avoid future cracks. 

Poor Craftsmanship
Following a blueprint is essential; otherwise, a pool will inevitably crack. Adding too much water, failing to tie rebar correctly, dry concrete, taking shortcuts, etc., can all cause immense cracking and bigger issues down the road. 

Pool owners concerned about any type of crack within the structure should consider scheduling an inspection with a qualified pool contractor. If further work is needed, a pool inspector can refer a civil engineer, a structural engineer, or a geotechnical engineer. 

Generally, pools hold up well through the years. The cause of many cracks can be mysterious to homeowners, but pool specialists can identify the culprit before suggesting a solution. While some cracks are normal, pool owners should check with a maintenance specialist to ensure the cracks do not cause permanent damage. 

Are you in need of a pool renovation? Contact Pound Pool Plastering today to learn more about our pool resurfacing options. 

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 e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Swimming pools are typically enjoyed by families across the country during the summer season. Pool owners are fully aware of the maintenance required to upkeep these tiny bodies of water, such as adding chemicals, more water, or draining the pool. 

Most municipal cities do not allow pool water to be drained into the city’s stormwater system. This includes streets, curbs, catch basins, ditches, gutters, channels, and storm drains. The purpose of the storm drains is to protect against flooding by swiftly clearing torrential rainwater from the street. 

Pool water, on the other hand, is nothing like rainwater. It contains elevated levels of chemicals such as chlorine, salt, chloramines, and other pollutants that can potentially ruin the local water quality. If pool water gets into the stormwater system, it can pose an environmental and public safety threat.

When it is time to drain your pool, you have several options: 

• Backyard: If you choose to drain your pool in your yard, be mindful of your neighbors’ property and proximity to storm drains. Do some research and learn which plants can’t survive pool water being released in their environment. To avoid flooding, drain your pool in small intervals.
• Sewer: you can drain your pool water into your home’s main sanitary sewer.
• Contractor: pool water that has notable contaminants such as algae or other issues should be pumped by a licensed contractor rather than released into the environment.

To find your sewer line cleanout, look for a small circular cap on a pipe with a raised square or mushroom-shaped cone. This line should be either sticking out of your house or from the ground, covering the cleanout. You can also scan the premises for a concrete or metal cover marked “SEWER,” “C.O.,” or “S.” The cleanouts are usually located under these covers.

If you live in a city or municipality, it is usually a good idea to contact them and see what their policy is on pool drainage. Some will require specific rules about when, how, and where to drain your pool. Sometimes, cities require pool water to be chlorine neutral before draining.

Once you properly dispose of your pool water, you can rest assured you have helped preserve the wildlife and water quality in the area.  

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 e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

As the weather cools and you want to extend the use of your pool, a heater to warm the water is a must. There are a few factors to consider when purchasing an inground pool heater: the size, the environment you live in, how quickly you expect it to heat, and your preference for energy use.

You can heat your pool in many ways, from electric, solar, and natural gas. Depending on where you live and how assessable your utilities may be will further determine which option is best for you. For example, if you live in a northern region with cold winters, you’ll likely want to bypass the solar heater and choose gas or electric, which will heat faster and works better in frigid weather. Those in warmer, sunnier climates would benefit by using solar heaters.

Whichever you decide, we list the pros and cons for each type of heater and name a couple of the best-selling products under each category.  

Gas Powered

Gas-powered pool heaters are powerful and can heat your water up to 20 to 30 degrees relatively quickly. The cost is usually lower compared to solar and electric heaters. Gas heaters require a bit more maintenance and cleaning, which can be costly in terms of time spent cleaning instead of enjoying the pool itself. Also, gas is the most expensive, so over time, any money you save up front will be long gone.

-Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater

-Pentair MasterTemp 125 Low NOx Pool Heater

Solar Powered

Solar-powered pool heaters are often considered one of the best options because they do not require electricity and are cleaner to run. They tend to be more expensive upfront but will save in utilities cost down the line. A solar heater would be more sufficient in temperate regions, as they require more time to heat up.

-Smart Pool S601 Inground Pool Solar Heating System

-Fafco 10028 Universal 24ft x 3.75in Solar Panel Heating Kit

Electric Pool Heaters 

Electric heaters are versatile and the most affordable. They are cheaper than gas because it runs on electricity rather than fuel, which is less expensive. Electric heaters are easier to install because they don’t depend on gas lines. There are two types of electric pool heaters, immersion and circulation heaters. Immersion heaters are installed in the pool water and are typically used for smaller, more shallow pools. The circulation heater, best for larger pools, uses a fan to circulate water through the heating element, which is based outside of the pool.  

– FibroPool FH055 Swimming Pool Heater Pump

– Ecosmart US SMART POOL Tankless Pool Heater

– Hayward W3HP50HA2 HeatPro Heat Pump

Pound Pool Plastering is fully licensed and insured, call today for small or large pool renovations!

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/

Warmer weather means more fun outdoors, especially in pools, lakes, or oceans. Swimmer’s ear is a common side-effect of being in the water and is diagnosed by an infection in the outer ear canal, which runs from the eardrum to the outside of your head. When water is stagnant in your ear, it creates an environment that promotes excess bacterial growth. 

Swimmer’s ear can be treated with ear drops. Swift treatment will help prevent complications and more serious infections. While symptoms are initially mild, they can worsen if the condition is not addressed. To avoid swimmer’s ear, the easiest prevention is to avoid getting water in your ears.

Cotton swabs or Q-tips can force earwax deeper into the ear canal, so do not use these to get water out of your ear. Instead, use irrigation-based ear drops after swimming. These drops are specially formulated with alcohol and vinegar to sterilize and restore the ear canal’s normal pH and can be purchased over the counter.

Getting water in the ear canal is a risk for swimmers in any waterway. Still, it’s riskier when the water is not chlorinated, as there’s a higher chance of bacteria in rivers or lakes. Lake water can sometimes contain dangerous bacteria causing infectious diseases such as meningitis and hepatitis.

Swimmer’s ear can damage the insides of an ear, though temporary and mild. Most people with the condition swiftly recover with adequate treatment, though long-term effects from chronic infection can lead to hearing loss.

See a doctor immediately if you have severe ear pain, cannot hear well, or have a clogged sensation in your ear. The most common treatment is an antimicrobial application where the ear canal is cleaned of pus, earwax, oils, or dead skin cells.

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 e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

After basking in the sun and cooling off in your refreshing pool, maintenance of said pool can sometimes be an afterthought. Neglecting to maintain your pool properly can result in thousands of dollars worth of damages and eventually cause your pool to be uninhabitable. To avoid ultimate disaster and continued enjoyment of your pool, check out our tips to keep your pool under control.

Remove Dirt and Debris
This might seem obvious but keeping the surface of your pool free from dirt and other organic material can help prevent infection. Pool vacuums are designed to swiftly remove debris, algae, and other harmful compounds. It is recommended to vacuum your pool at least once a week. Simultaneously, brush your pool’s walls, steps, and floors, along with skimming the water’s surface. 

Water Your Pool
That’s right; you need to maintain your pool’s water level by adding water appropriately. If your pool has lower or higher levels than it should, the chemical water balance can easily get thrown off. Moreover, pool filters and water skimmers have a hard time keeping the water clean if the water level is not adequate.

Keep the Chlorine in Check
The magic number for keeping your pool properly sanitized is to add three parts per million (ppm) of chlorine to the water. If you smell chlorine or have itchy eyes, use an at-home test to ensure your levels aren’t too high. Chlorine is the most reliable solution for cleaning pools, as it won’t corrode plumbing or discolor pools like salt water. 

Clean the Filter
Depending on how often you use your pool, cleaning your filter is absolutely necessary for pristine water. Signs it is time to clean your filter include unusual odor, clogged drain, or an inefficient hose cleaner. Cartridge filters will need to be cleaned every four- to six months. Diatomaceous earth filters should be completely disassembled and cleaned every three- to six months. Sand filters should be replaced every three- to five years.

Create a Schedule
We’ve established that pools need to be maintained regularly, but it’s still easy to forget. Ensure you remember when it’s time to clean your pool by setting notifications on your phone or writing reminders in your calendar. The cleaning intensity depends on each pool, but once you figure out exactly what your pool needs, try to be as consistent as possible. 

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 chemicals are essential to the overall functionality of the pool. While crystal-clear, clean swimming pools can be the center of summer fun. Many people focus on wearing sunscreen and keeping everyone safe while swimming, but generally, the chemicals present in pools are an afterthought.

We all know that pool chemicals are meant to disinfect the water, eliminating germs and bacteria. When used properly, chemicals such as chlorine and bromine keep people safe from potential health issues.

Storing, handling, and measuring the pool compounds is vital to maintaining the overall water ecosystem. These chemicals can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. Maintaining basic safety rules when using pool chemicals and equipment is imperative.

Chlorine works in tandem with the pH level (acidity) in pool water to create a safe environment for swimming. However, dirt, organic materials such as skin cells or fecal matter, leaves, sunlight, etc., can quickly lower chlorine levels.

If the pool water has a high pH level, it is more difficult for chlorine to reduce bacteria. The human body has a pH ranging from 7.2 to 7.8; if the pool water is outside this range, swimmers will have irritated skin, red, bloodshot eyes, ear pain, labored breathing, congestion, and/or cough.

According to the CDC, a balanced pool should not smell like chlorine. When a pool smells like a strong chemical, it is usually due to a chemical reaction of sweat, urine, dirt, skin cells, or fecal matter with chlorinated water. To prevent chloramines, ensure swimmers do not have diarrhea, take bathroom breaks, shower before and after getting in the pool, wear a swim cap, and do not urinate in the water.

Below are some tips for safely handling pool chemicals:

• Add chemicals carefully and handle with care
• Store chemicals in an extremely dry area away from other chemicals
• Do not mix chemicals from different years
• Only use approved pool chemicals
• Never mix your own chemicals

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/