When pool owners build or remodel their pool, they take into account size, shape, activities, accessories, and, more recently, water sanitation methods. The two most common types of pool sanitation are saltwater and chlorine. But what are the differences, and why do they matter? Continue reading to find out.

Differences Between Saltwater and Chlorine

In saltwater pools, electrolysis creates chlorine thanks to pool-grade salt and a chlorine generator. The salty water passes through two electrically-charged plates, which then get converted to chlorine. While chlorine is still present in the pool, the process is different from a traditional chlorine pool. 

On the other hand, chlorine pools must be tested and balanced with liquid or tablet chlorine. Additionally, pH and calcium hardness must be sampled and adjusted. 

While each pool is sanitized with the same chemical, saltwater pools create fewer chloramines, contributing to the smell and feel of traditional chlorine pools.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that chloramines are “a type of combined chlorine that form in water,” and emit gas into the surrounding air, causing that typical chlorine smell, eye redness, and lung irritation. 

Saltwater Benefits

• Everyday operations are cheaper, with an entire summer supply of salt costing roughly $25, and chlorine $165 
• Gentler on skin, eyes, hair, swimsuits, etc.
• No chemical chlorine smell

Chlorine Benefits

• More cost-effective to keep a traditional chlorine pool if it already exists; converting to saltwater can cost roughly $3,000 or more
• The pool still works on cold days

Saltwater Disadvantages

• Pool can deteriorate more quickly due to salt erosion 
• Salt chlorine generators require more maintenance
• Chlorine will not be produced in water cooler than 60 degrees

Chlorine Disadvantages

• Chlorine can cause dry skin, red eyes, bleached swimwear, irritated noses, throat, lungs, etc.
• Chemicals cost more than pool grade salt
• Chloramines produce a strong chemical smell, especially indoors

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

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

You can’t see us, but we’re jumping for joy! Pool season is almost here, and after a dreary winter, you might be just as excited as we are…but not so fast. It takes more than skimming the water or removing the pool cover to “open” your pool for the season. Read on for suggestions.

Timer Settings
Ensure your pool timer is set to the correct season to run the most efficiently. You can waste money and energy by letting it run too long or too little.

Clean Debris
Skimmer baskets and the pump should be emptied of debris. Even though this might sound like a no-brainer, letting debris (like leaves) sit too long can clog the plumbing/filtration systems, damaging the pool pump. If the basket is cracked, make sure you replace it as soon as possible to avoid future issues. Also make sure you dislodge debris from the walls and floor by brushing around the pool.

Pressure Gauge
While the pump is off, the pressure gauge should be at zero. If it’s running above zero, it’s time for a replacement. This gadget is critical for understanding whether the rest of your pool equipment is functioning properly.

Sanitization
If your pool uses a chlorine float, fill it and replace it if cracked. The steady supply of chlorine (or sanitizer of your choice) will help your water handle heavy usage, animals, leaves, etc.

Check for Leaks
Look around the pump, filter, valves, and other equipment to ensure there are no leaks. Small leaks might not seem drastic, but they can eventually cause a disaster. Try to isolate any issues and contact a pool technician if you see any leaks.

Balance Water
Last but not least, get ready to hop in your pool by using chlorine, shock, or other pool chemicals to neutralize the pH. Use your water test results as a guide to determine what is needed.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Over time, pool surfaces become dirty, stained, rough, and worn. Unbalanced pool chemicals, body oils, and faulty construction can be reasons for pool surface deterioration. Improper gunite application during construction is usually the cause of bond failure. When the bond between the gunite or concrete and the plaster fails, that can cause delamination. Blisters form on the pool’s surface, and water can get between the layers, causing further damage.

Problems with Damaged Pool Surfaces

A damaged pool surface is not just an eyesore. Problems with the surface can worsen over time, leading to algae growth, and can make being in the pool uncomfortable. Abrasive areas can cut or irritate the skin when swimmers brush against or touch the surface. Rough spots can also snag or tear swimwear. In addition, damaged surfaces in commercial pools could injure swimmers, leading to liability issues.

Reasons to Update Your Pool’s Surface

If your pool is beginning to look a little rough, it may be time for a surface update. You might live in a house where the pool is several years old, or maybe you just purchased a place where the pool was a little neglected. Whether you plan to stay in your house long-term or are looking at putting it on the market, giving your pool a facelift can change it from dull and drab to sparkling and enticing. If you own a private or public commercial pool, resurfacing can make your pool more attractive and safer for guests.

Resurfacing Options

Replastering a pool’s surface can make it look fresh and inviting. If your pool surface shows signs of deterioration, a reputable pool company specializing in replastering can make it look good again. Depending upon your budget, you can choose plaster, tile, or aggregate surfacing. Plaster is more economical and comes in attractive colors. Aggregate surfacing contains mixtures of materials, including glass beads, quartz, pebbles, and cement. Leaving the pebbles in an aggregate surface unpolished creates a bumpy texture, while polishing them yields a smooth surface. For a custom, upscale look, a tile surface is an option and lasts longer than plaster or aggregate.

Looking to refresh your pools surface before summer? Contact Pound Pool Plastering today for an estimate.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Adverse winter weather can affect many aspects of our lives, even the pool you might have forgotten about during the cold season. Snowstorms and heavy frozen rain can impact your pool in many ways. Read on to learn how and what to do if winter weather brings heavy snow, ice, and high winds to your backyard.  

Heavy Snow
Even with a mesh cover on your pool, excessive snowfall can be an issue. Until the snow can melt, it cannot pass through the cover, which means it accumulates. Solid covers trap the snow (even if it melts) until you can remove it with a cover pump. When heavy snow falls and piles up over five inches, it can damage your pool cover. The excess weight alone can put a lot of stress on your cover, which could rip or fail if it breaks. If the snow is light and fluffy, you can use a leaf blower to push it off the pool cover. If the snow is heavy or wet, instead, use a soft push broom, leaf rake, or telescoping pool pole to get the snow off. Never step onto the pool cover to remove snow. Remove snow from the edges, with your feet on solid ground, not ice. 

Ice
Freezing snow or rain that freezes later is a challenging aspect of winter for pool owners. As the ice melts away, remember to use a cover pump to remove it. Do not attempt to crack or break the ice, as you can tear the pool cover.

Fallen Limbs
Ice storms and blizzards can throw broken tree branches and twigs on the ground. If any fall on the pool cover, remove them as carefully as possible. Check thoroughly for damage and make an urgent plan to repair or replace the pool cover as soon as possible. If debris is introduced into the pool water through a rip or hole in the cover, remove as much of it as you can to prevent a swampy mess once spring comes. Also, check the pool’s water balance to ensure there are no chemical issues.

High Winds
If not appropriately secured, pool covers can swing to and fro in high winds. Ensure your pool has adequate water tubes or blocks attached securely to the cover. Tighten winches, straps, and buckles if necessary to verify that the cables are tight.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Wondering about mineral sanitizers for pools and spas? Read on to learn why this trend might be right up your alley.

Mineral sanitizers come in several different sizes and configurations. These antibacterial blends kill living contaminants in water, such as algae and bacteria, using silver and copper ions. This concept is thousands of years old, used by the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. Antimicrobial properties are seen from combining silver and copper ions, making a natural solution for pool sanitation.

While minerals can effectively sanitize pools and spas, they are not strong enough to be used solo. Chlorine and bromine are much faster-acting, but adding minerals helps increase the effectiveness and allows you to use less. By adding minerals to your sanitation routine, you can use 50 to 75 percent less chlorine and up to 50 percent less bromine.

Mineral systems can also help reduce the wear and tear of salt cells when used in conjunction with a salt chlorinator. With lower levels of chlorine and bromine, skin and eye irritation decreases, as do faded swimsuits. Softer water means a better pH balance over a more extended period.

Mineral sanitizers are super easy to use; some even come with pre-measured chlorine or bromine cartridges…no measuring necessary, saving you lots of time on pool maintenance.

When it comes to brands, there are many different options for mineral sanitizers on the market. Here are some examples of popular options:

Jacuzzi: Their mineral cartridge system is perfect for both inground and above-ground pools, treating up to 25,000 gallons of water. The minerals are easy to replace, providing softer, cleaner water with up to 50 percent less chlorine.

Zodiac/Nature2: This option is excellent for in-ground and above-ground pools with over 40,000 gallons of water. They also offer spa sticks which are perfect for spas.

FROG: Here, you’ll find options for in-ground and above-ground pools as well as spas and hot tubs. The possibilities are endless, as they offer in-line cartridges, floating sanitizers, skimmer applications, and more.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

‘Tis the season for holiday gift-giving! Do you need some inspiration for the pool lovers on your list? Look no further, we’ve got you covered. Snag one of these awesome gifts today; they are sure to please any pool aficionado.

• Dive toys: These are an awesome option for kids or those on a budget.

• Floating chaise lounge: Because who doesn’t love relaxing in the pool?
  
• Toy caddy: Just as important as your accessories, storing is essential.
  
• Robotic cleaner: This little guy scrubs the pool with ease.
  
• Colorful Bluetooth speakers: Everyone loves music by the pool, so why not in the pool, too?
  
• Water slide: Kids of all ages will love sliding into the pool with this inflatable tool.

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean we can’t all be dreaming of warm weather! Make your upcoming summer one to remember with these snazzy gifts for the pool owner in your family.

Are you thinking of renovating your pool? Contact the pool specialists at Pound Pool today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

During the pandemic, many homeowners re-discovered their backyards. Prospective pool owners had them installed, while those who already had pools chose to renovate.

During 2020, pool installations jumped 24 percent, according to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. Some pool installation and renovation companies are booking well into 2023.

If you have been considering a pool renovation, act now and schedule today. Some factors to consider prior to renovating or building a pool include:

Water Type
Chlorinated, saltwater, or neither? You’ve undoubtedly heard the difference between the different types of pool cleansers, but have you heard of all-natural? BioNova is cleaned and maintained by biological filters: plants. Without chemicals, UV, or ozone, biofilm filters pools naturally and effectively.

Materials
There are several different types of pool materials, including concrete, gunite, fiberglass, etc. Each finish affects the design’s overall durability, installation timetable, and maintenance costs.

Color
Shades of grey have been popular in homes and, you guessed it, pools. Natural surroundings are more apparent and better reflected with darker shades, specifically.

Pool Surround
Pools can be minimalist, old-fashioned, modern, or more. The area surrounding a pool is imperative to setting the mood. Quartz, limestone, concrete pavers, grass, artificial turf, etc., can be used to create a specific look.

Accessories
Hot tubs, spas, covers, heaters, cleaners, and so much more are all helpful to minimize pool maintenance. LED lights are also ideal for nighttime swims, waterfalls, jets, etc., to accompany the dazzling display of moving water.

Are you ready to renovate your pool or want to learn more? Contact the pool renovation experts at Pound Pool Plastering today.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

If you have a pool, you’ll need to cover it for winter, but how do you choose between options? Solid covers are slightly more expensive than their mesh counterparts since they are more secure. Solar covers or water bag covers are also viable options. Read on to learn more about the differences between pool covers.

Solid Covers
Almost completely airtight, these hefty covers will prevent debris, dirt, water, and sunlight from getting into the pool. Algae and other tiny microorganisms can thrive in pools during the fall and winter months. Solid covers prevent sunlight from entering; therefore, these organisms cannot grow. Cover pumps are required in this case, which will remove excess water (and melted snow) from the surface. Moreover, these covers inhibit pets, wildlife, or children from entering the pool. Solid covers can also be automatic, activating them by a flip of a switch. Low-profile aluminum covers can be mounted on the side of your pool with an inconspicuous lid above it.

Mesh Covers
These covers are best for heavy winter snowfall, as they are permeable. Melting snow, ice, and rain can percolate through the cover, preventing water accumulation on the surface. Smaller debris can still seep through the cover but can be removed with a pool vacuum in the spring. These covers are less expensive and lightweight, which makes installation a breeze.

Water Covers
If you’re undecided between a solid or mesh cover, a water cover might be a decent alternative. Filled with long water tubes or small bubbles, these covers are placed around the pool’s edge to ensure the water is kept in place. They are available in either mesh or solid material.

No matter which pool cover you choose, ensure you maintain it during the off-season by draining when necessary, checking the tension, and adjusting the fit.

Leaf nets can be used in either case to catch larger debris (leaves) before it collects on the cover. Especially in areas with a large number of trees, leaf nets are essential to ensure an easy cleaning process in the spring. Leaves are not terribly heavy, so these nets are straightforward and require minimal effort to remove.

Winter covers can save pool owners money in the spring. Choose carefully before deciding what will best meet your needs.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Summer has almost come to an end, and with that, pool season is winding down as fall looms ahead. You can easily extend your pool time by adding a gas heater, heat pump, or solar heater. Instead of closing your pool as soon as the temperatures drop, check out these ten tips for keeping your swimming water warm(er) through autumn.

1. Solar Cover: The most effortless and cost-efficient way to extend your pool season well into spring and fall is to add a solar cover. By retaining warmth during the night and heating up during the day, these are effective for both inground and above-ground pools. Moreover, pool covers save owners money by decreasing the amount of evaporation coming from the surface. As much as 90 percent of evaporation is reduced, which means pool owners don’t have to waste time filling up the pool. Also, pool covers catch debris that would otherwise litter the water surface and create more work for you or your filter. Solar cover reels are also a must; they roll up the cover neatly and save pool owners the hassle of rolling and storing.
2. Solar Sun Rings: Roughly 60 inches in diameter, these rings are coated with UV-resistant vinyl and rest gently on the pool’s surface. They heat the water and retain nighttime warmth. Since they don’t cover the entire pool, they aren’t as energy and debris efficient as a solar cover, but they are easy to maneuver and often come in attractive designs.
3. Gas Heater: A propane or natural gas heater is the most powerful way to extend pool season. These are designed to increase pool temperature by about 30 degrees Fahrenheit or more.
4. Heat Pumps: By gathering warm air around the pool, compressing it, and recycling it throughout the pool, these pumps are designed for sunny climates. They are less expensive than gas heaters, are easy to use, and are affordable. The only downside is they do not work in environments where the temperature drops below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Solar Heaters: Another product designed for use in sunny areas, solar heaters can increase a pools temperature by about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. However, these are meant to be used in areas where the sun is prevalent, even on chilly days. These heaters can be installed on a roof, fence, or wall and will absorb sunlight, turning it into heat within the pool.

Want to extend your pool season? It might be time for a renovation; call the experts at Pound Pool Plastering to learn how we can provide you with a top-of-the-line pool.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Pool owners want to maximize their chlorine efficiently and use less of the chemical for many reasons, some of which include money, lowering chloramine contact, reducing dependence, and more. Additionally, an ongoing chlorine supply shortage has forced many unsuspecting pool owners to stretch out their current chlorine supply as long as possible.

Routine Pool Care

• Water Balance: keep your pool water at a steady 7.4 – 7.6 pH to extend the efficacy of chlorine. Lower pH levels can cause Free Available Chlorine (FAC) levels to disperse, while higher pH water will render the sanitizer futile. Total Alkalinity (TA) levels are imperative to monitor as well; they should stay between 80 to 120 ppm. The ideal range for Calcium Hardness varies from 200 to 400 ppm. Cyanuric Acid (CA) acts as a stabilizer and should also be tested. This chemical protects chlorine from being broken down in the sun. The CA level should stay at 30 to 50 ppm.

• Pool cleaning: keep your water pristine and ensure no debris collects on the surface. Organic contaminants such as plant debris, sweat, body oils, cosmetics, germs, algae, animal waste, insects, etc., can absorb chlorine in your pool, reducing its lifetime. Also brush, skim, and vacuum your pool regularly. Ensure your filtration system is running properly, clean the pool filter, and shock or oxidize weekly.

Solar Covers

• These simple pool accessories can increase pool temperature, energy retention, water conservation, reduce debris, and save you money when it comes to chemical use. Evaporation is reduced by up to 90 percent as well. A powerful tool against chlorine burn-off and chemical evaporation, solar covers have been shown to reduce total pool chemical use by 30 to 60 percent.

Alternative Sanitizers

• Mineral systems: Also known as ionization systems, these work to reduce chlorine use by adding copper and silver ions to the water, acting as a sanitizer. Some of these systems have proven to reduce chlorine use by up to 50 percent.

• Saltwater: Using the process of electrolysis, salt is converted into a steady stream of Free Available Chlorine. After the chlorine is used, it returns to salt, and the process repeats itself.

• Ozone & UV: Natural sanitation solutions, these quickly and effectively neutralize organic or living contaminants such as bacteria, algae, and other microorganisms. They can reduce chlorine use by up to 50 to 90 percent.

• Bromine: A popular sanitizer for indoor pools, spas, and hot tubs, this chemical can be higher-priced than chlorine but is much more stable in warm temperatures.

• Biguanide: This pool sanitation chemical destroys microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. It’s more expensive than chlorine and has a strong odor but is more gentle on skin, swimming suits, and vinyl liners.

Pound Pool Plastering offers free estimates and complete pool renovations. Dale Pound, owner, personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, Marcite, Pebble finishes, Bead Crete, tile choices, coping stones, etc. We are pool renovation experts – contact us today at 248-476-4544 or poundpool@sbcglobal.net.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.