Natural Stone Pools' Weblog

Swimming Pool Remodel Contractor

naturalstonepools — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:36:58 +0000

With school back in, now is the time better than ever to consider a fresh update and pool remodel. Most of this time in the September to November months is great for preparing the backyard for the upcoming holiday’s. And, continuing through April will get your backyard in shape for when the next swim season begins. Planting is also a good time right now as the hot Dallas temperatures are on the decline and newly planted landscape has a better chance of establishing. As a pool builder and remodeler, we offer many ways to update and enhance your backyard experience, all year round. Call Natural Stone Pools today, we have the most unique and beautiful creation waiting for you. Pool Remodel, Landscape Remodel, New Pool, Outdoor Kitchens & BBQ areas, Patio & Deck, Arbors, Stone Masonry, and more. Serving the Greater Dallas Texas Metroplex, North Dallas Tx, Dallas TX, Frisco TX, Plano TX, Allen TX, McKinney TX, Fairview TX, Lucas TX, Parker TX, Richardson TX, Prosper TX, Celina TX, Melissa TX. Call Jerry Borders or Shannon Borders at 469-742-0366.

Swimming Pool Service Tips

naturalstonepools — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 18:18:10 +0000

Always stand clear of the filter during system start up. Pump pressure causes tank expansion and trapped air in the system is potentially dangerous if the clamp is not installed or tightened correctly.

Position pressure gauges and equipment instruction so they are visible during system operation and maintenance. Tank instruction labels and gauges should be positioned so that any repair person can read them easily without coming in contact with the equipment.

Periodically check with your original equipment manufacturer for updates to products. Always use genuine original manufacturers replacement parts to service equipment. Never interchange parts from different manufacturers.

If you have questions about the way your equipment operates, contact a licensed pool professional or the original equipment manufacturer. Swimming pool/spa equipment manufacturers are always ready to supply you with helpful information on the equipment, and they want to keep you aware of improved changes to their products.

Source: Pentair Pool Products, Safety Tips/Swim Safely

Pool Decking

naturalstonepools — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 16:19:58 +0000

There are many elements of a poolscape – the pool, the landscaping, the equipment, backyard accessories – but one that serves a greater purpose than just aesthetics or function is the deck. Options range from concrete to wood to pavers to stone to composite products. But, no mater the material, the deck and pool go together like baseball and hot dogs. You can hardly enjoy one without the other. Choosing the right combination makes all the difference.

Resource: Jenna Danninger, AquaMagazine, July 2009

Alarms and Gates

naturalstonepools — Thu, 07 May 2009 16:00:29 +0000

Radio Shack and Leslie Pool Supply have interior door alarms that are very loud, but effective, and easy to install. The alarm is powered with batteries. Also, make sure that all gates with direct access to the pool are self closing/self latching and open away from the pool; this makes it a little more difficult to pull open if there is a tight spring hinge to keep it closed and latched.

Cooler Temperatures and Salt Cell Generator

naturalstonepools — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:14:30 +0000

During the cooler temperatures of pool filtration, the Pentair IntelliChlor salt cell generator will shut off at 59 degrees. At this time, it will be necessary to introduce chlorine tabs as the method of sanitizing the pool. Simply add chlorine tabs to an in-line chlorinator or to a floating chlorine vessel. It is still important to check the water chemistry weekly.

Once the water rises above 59 degrees, the salt cell generator will turn on. It is also recommended to inspect and clean the salt cell at this time.

Safety Tips for Children with Long Hair

naturalstonepools — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 02:18:47 +0000

Pool main drains are not to be used as a place to swim to or throw diving toys/objects at. The drains are equipped with covers, but can become an entanglement should loose long hair or jewelry come in contact. Good advice: long hair should be pulled up and braided if possible. There is also the option of a bathing cap. Jewelry and string-type apparel should be avoided in the pool. Most importantly, stay away from the main drains.

Another suggestion is to turn off the pool equipment during swim time. Filtering your pool during off-peak times, such as through the night, can also save on energy costs.

Swimming Pool Leaks

naturalstonepools — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 22:26:30 +0000

Every so often, I will receive an inquiry about a possible leak in the pool. Evaporation happens by way of water fountains and features, spillways/spillovers, waterfalls, shallow water bubbler features, wind, temperature, etc. Dirt and other debris can get into a spa check valve allowing the spa water to drain back into the pool.

If you are losing more than 2″ in a week, you probably have a leak. There is a simple first step test you can perform to determine if in fact there is a leak problem or simply evaporation. Place a bucket on the top step and fill it with water to the same level as the pool. After 24 hours, check the loss of both. If the level of the pool water is lower than the level of water in the bucket, then you know there is a leak.

There are fluctuations, and some leaks may be found by a professional leak detection service. Visual inspections include excessive saturation at the pool equipment area. Other tests include pressure testing of all plumbing lines, and in some cases a dye test can be performed at the inlets and outlet drain locations.

Swimming Pools & Backyard Environments

naturalstonepools — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 22:42:25 +0000

At Natural Stone Pools, our focus is on unique design and impeccable craftsmanship. We encourage clients to participate in the process so that their back yards reflect their own taste and unique personality, and in the end complement their home and lifestyle. We believe that even a modest budget deserves better than a cookie-cutter approach to swimming pool design and implementation. And all of this culminates in our ultimate goal: Creating and building the best swimming pools and backyard environments attainable.