7 Important Autumn Pool Maintenance Tips

Your pool area didn’t just grow out of your backyard. It took a great amount of time and money to have a swimming pool and deck. It is important to take care of your investments. Proper maintenance will not only keep your investment in good working condition, it will also help prevent more costly repairs in the future. To help you get started, here are ten essential pool maintenance tips you should do:

1. Balance the Pool Water

The pool water’s pH level needs to be balanced at all times. The right level would be somewhere between 7.2 and 7.6. To determine your pool’s, you can either call an expert to check or bring a sample to a local pool expert for testing. Appropriate treatment will be recommended to help balance the level.

2. Clean the Water and Pool Decking

When you clean the pool, don’t just take out the floating leaves or branches. You have to brush the walls and pool decking as well. Check the lint basket and make sure that it is emptied regularly. Address anything that would require a concrete repair before it gets worse. A pool deck resurfacing is highly recommended as an affordable but effective repair method.

3. Check the Pool Filter

The filter needs to be checked and cleaned regularly. Any debris or oil deposit could harden and stay stuck as temperatures drop. It would then be harder to clean when summer comes.

4. Consider a Shock Treatment

Do not be afraid to use a shock treatment. This is best done throughout the cool season. Just make sure that once you add the treatment to the pool, you run the pump and filter for several hours to help disperse the treatment throughout the entire pool.

5. Keep Algae Away

Chlorine is an effective way to minimize algae. The addition of an algaecide will help prolong and enhance chlorine’s effectiveness. Also, remove any debris from the pool that could enhance the growth of algae during seasons when the pool is not in use.

6. Check Chlorine Level

The constant level of chlorine should be 2 to 3 parts per million (PPM) during the winter season. However, if you have a salt chlorinator and pool blanket, the chlorine level should only be 1 to 2 PPM.

7. Put the Pool Cover

A pool cover can efficiently keep water in and debris out. Just make sure that the pool cover is durable enough to last through winter. Also, it has to be secure and safe enough especially in homes with kids and pets.

Source Here:} 7 Important Autumn Pool Maintenance Tips

Do’s and Don’ts For Pool Deck Maintenance

Having your own pool area is nothing short of a luxury. While it is indeed an accessible space for fun and enjoyment, there is one crucial thing that pool owners sometimes take for granted: pool maintenance. Whether you like it or not, you would have to deal with deck debris, concrete damage, slippery spots, and the like. Worry not. As long as you have a list of basic things you need to do regularly to maintain your pool decking, it will always be in pristine condition.

Do’s

Repair Pool Decking Damage Immediately

It is important to have the pool deck checked yearly even if it’s just a check-up. This way, you can catch issues before they get worse. There are inexpensive concrete repair methods available today for almost any type of damage.

Reseal the Concrete Pool Deck Every Few Years

If you have a concrete deck, it is important for the surface to be sealed. Concrete is highly porous and anything that penetrates the slab could wreak havoc from within. If your deck is still in good condition, all you have to do is have it resealed every couple of years or yearly if it gets heavy foot traffic. If there are some minor issues on the surface, a pool deck resurfacing can help improve its form and function.

Get Rid of Dirt and Debris

Simply sweeping the surface of the pool deck regularly can help rid it of fallen leaves and any other debris. Do not allow leaves to rot on top of the deck. This could cause discoloration especially on a concrete surface.

Rearrange Furniture

Moving furniture in different positions on a pool deck can help prevent stressed spots on the surface. Sometimes, a chair that has been positioned on the same spot through the years will cause scratches or sunken spots where the feet are. Rearranging them every now and then will help prevent this.

Don’ts

Don’t Paint the Deck

Paint is not a huge fan of moisture or water for that matter. The splashes of water from the pool or even rainfall will only damage the paint, causing it to separate from the deck, flake, and ultimately peel off. Instead of paint, use another finishing method, like stained concrete.

Don’t Overwash

Washing the deck is alright but do not overdo it. Hard and frequent washing could cause more damage than good. The constant scrubbing or pressure from a water hose could weaken the surface.

Don’t Use Chemical-based Cleaners

There are many commercial products out there that claim to clean pool decks efficiently. If you must use one, make sure to choose one that contain natural ingredients. Chemical-based products may harm the concrete slab, the sealer, or any coating on it. It is highly recommended to consult a pro before using any product.

Originally Published Here:} Do’s and Don’ts For Pool Deck Maintenance

The Perfect Season for Pool Deck Repair & Remodeling

Swimming season is over and the chilly winter season is fast approaching. The cover on the pool is a good indication of that. While waiting for the actual chill to set in, why not make use of this precious time to remodel the pool deck? This will give you enough time to revamp the space and make it ready when summer comes back around. Here are cool things you can do to make your pool area a lot more enjoyable and appealing than it already is:

Improve Safety

It is inevitable for a pool deck to become slippery with all the splashes of water involved. If you know that your deck can get pretty slippery when wet, there is a great way to make it a lot safer. There are pool deck overlays that feature textured surfaces which help increase slip-resistance. A concrete overlay can be stamped with paving patterns like natural stone, brick, and tile. The shallows grooves enhance grip on the surface. A spray texture is also popular for pool decks. Similar to stucco, this coating is sprayed on the deck and then later troweled to flatten the sharp tips, creating a non-skid and comfortable walking surface.

Add Style

Tired of the pool area’s theme? Then change it. Pool deck coatings can be installed on any existing surface. These come in a variety of types, colors, and patterns, making it easier for you to acquire the exact look that you want. You can have a natural stone deck without using actual stones. A stamped flagstone or travertine surface with hand-stained colors will give it a natural look at a more affordable cost. You can even stain the concrete pool deck with designs or images that mean something to you or something that matches or complements your home.

Repair Damage

Pool deck repair is definitely something you should do before winter comes. This will put your deck in a state where it would be durable enough to withstand extreme weather. Any gap or crack on a concrete pool deck could be a passageway for water to make its way further into the slab. Any moisture in the slab could freeze and thaw as the weather changes, expanding and compressing like crazy until pressure on the concrete causes it to weaken and crack. Decorative coatings and overlays can effectively repair surface damage and cover up blemishes.

See Full Article Here:} The Perfect Season for Pool Deck Repair & Remodeling

5 Tips for Preparing Your California Home for the Fall Season

Days go by so fast and before you know it, the Fall season is coming. Before the air starts to be cool and crisp, it is important to prepare your home to make it safe and comfortable for the upcoming season.

Here are some things you could do:

Clean and Prep the Patio and Pool Decks

Although it seems counterintuitive to clean out spaces that will not be used that much in cold weather, it is important to swab it clean. Any dirt or debris that stays sitting on the surface during cool and wet weather could cause damage on the concrete slab. Also, make time for patio and pool deck repair. The slightest damage could be a passageway for water or snow to penetrate the slab, causing worse and deeper damage. Patio and pool deck overlays and coatings can help give it a new and more durable surface at a minimal cost.

Change Drapes and Beddings

Thin, semi-translucent curtains are not ideal for cold weather. Heavier drapes with thicker fabrics and tighter threading are more insulating. Keeping cool air at bay and keeping warm air inside the house. It is also that time of the year to bring out those thick comforters out from storage. Adding some rugs on the floor so your feet have some warm areas to step on is also highly recommended.

Check the Furnace and Chimney

The furnace and chimney will be in full use this coming Fall so make sure that they are clean and in good working condition. Any debris left in these areas could catch fire when you finally use them. You could, of course, schedule a check with an expert during Fall but most of them would be booked and busy by then so might as well schedule a check now.

Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts

Leaves, branches, and other stuff may have accumulated in gutters and downspouts during the previous seasons. It would be important to clear these out before further leaves fall and accumulate to keep it clear and functional. Any debris will cause blockage and will not be good during heavy rainfall. To get released, the water might find its way into your roof and into the ceiling so make sure that does not happen.

Prepare the Garden for Fall

The garden is exposed to all the changes in climate and temperature when the season changes. No one wants to wake up to withering plants once the weather clears up. Make sure not to put fertilizers during the Fall season. This will encourage new growths and those won’t do so well once Winter comes. Also, keep water at a minimum. The soil and air are often wet during this season so additional water is not necessary.

Learn More Here:} 5 Tips for Preparing Your California Home for the Fall Season

5 Ways to Cool Down Your Swimming Pool

One of a swimming pool’s purpose is to be a refreshing oasis where people can cool down. But what if you dive in and realize that it feels more like being submerged in a stew being warmed up slowly on a stove? Disappointing, indeed. Because the pool sits under the sun for long hours on any day, the heat of the sun is enough to heat the water up. Also, pools with covers tend to retain heat so when the cover is pulled out, the water is warm to the touch. Before you purchase all the ice in the world and throw them into your pool, try out these cool ways to cool down the pool area.

Hire a Cool Deck Resurfacing Pro

If the pool deck is hot, the heat it absorbs could be transferred to the pool, making the water warm. A hot pool deck is also dangerous for bare feet as it could cause minor burns underfoot. To prevent both of these issues, cool deck coatings like kool decking and spray texture may come handy. A cool deck overlay is applied on the existing deck through a spraying process. The splattered material is knocked down with a trowel, creating a texture that features air pockets, keeping the surface cool.

Install a Pool Cooler

A pool cooler is a device that lowers the temperature of a pool by about 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. This works by removing the heat of the water that flows through it. This is a highly popular solution because it helps make the chemistry of the water easier to maintain. It can be used along with any existing pool system and it comes with temperature controls, making sure that the water does not get too cold for comfort.

Run a Water Fountain or Aerator

A running water fountain helps circulate the water, lowering the temperature a few degrees. The cooler temperature may not be as significant as that from a pool cooler but it is enough to make the water refreshingly enjoyable. It is highly recommended to let the fountain or aerator run overnight for maximum effects.

Create Shaded Areas

Add some shade on or near the pool to create a shaded area where the water stays cool no matter how hot the day gets. You can use set up umbrellas, hang a fabric shade, have a permanent roof over the pool or extend eaves over some part of the swimming pool.

Clear the Landscaping

Any large or abundant foliage right beside the pool can hinder cool air from circulating around the pool area, trapping heat on the surface of the pool. Keep landscaping far enough from the pool to allow cool air to travel in and around the pool.

See More Here:} 5 Ways to Cool Down Your Swimming Pool

Cool Deck Coating: Is it really Cool?

A brand new pool deck always looks divine and works impressively well. However, as time goes by, it may soon look worn and may not function just as well as it was first used. Fruit drinks that have spilled on the deck could stain it. Weather changes and aging can weaken the concrete deck, too, causing cracks and spalling. If the deck is only suffering from cosmetic issues, redoing the whole area would be a waste of money. Cool deck resurfacing might be the best solution.

What are Cool Deck Coatings?

Resurfacing concrete pool decks is not something new. Although it provides a ton of benefits, there is just one issue that needs to be addressed: hot surface. When a pool deck gets exposed to tremendous heat all day, the surface gets pretty hot. Too hot, in fact, for bare feet. Imagine having to wear and remove flip flops each and every time you need to get in or out of the pool. Very inconvenient, indeed. Many concrete companies have created their own versions, such as Kool Decking and Sundek Classic Texture. The most common and most recommended method is a spray knockdown texture.

Cool to the Touch

There is a reason why it is called a cool deck overlay. It maintains a cool temperature despite exposure to sunlight for long hours. The coating has the ability to reflect heat back instead of absorbing it. For a spray finish, the texture also features air pockets that allow air to circulate around the foot.

Safe to Walk On

Aside from maintaining low temperatures, another cool thing about a cool deck repair is that it improves slip-resistance. The spraying only broadcasts some of the materials, then the troweling creates a comfortable, yet textured surface to walk on. A non-skid surface is very important on pool decks especially because it gets wet all the time. Children and adult alike will surely be safer from slips and falls.

Easy on the Pocket

A spray-down concrete resurfacing with a cool deck overlay is a lot more economical than installing expensive materials or redoing the whole thing. More often than not, pool deck damage is only cosmetic. Cracks, pits, and spalling are often caused by age, foot traffic, and weather changes. Taking the weak surface off and replacing it with a better one should restore the slab, improve its appearance, and enhance its function.

Source Here:} Cool Deck Coating: Is it really Cool?

What to Do With an Ugly & Damaged Concrete Patio

It is quite a challenge having to maintain outdoor concrete surfaces. A concrete patio, for example, is often exposed to harsh weather changes. While it is possible for it to acquire damage and lose its original beauty, it is not impossible to make it look as good as it was, if not better. Here are things you can do to breathe new life to ugly and damaged patios:

Resurface with a Coating or Overlay

One of the most popular and decorative solutions is to resurface the patio. Resurface means to add a new layer to the damage patio. A stamped overlay is applied thinly on the surface and then stamped by mat or by hand with your chosen pattern. Some of the popular patterns include:

• Slate
• Flagstone
• Brick
• Cobblestone
• Ashlar
• And more

Another resurfacing solution is a spray knockdown finish. A professional concrete contractor sprays the acrylic concrete coating on the old patio and then knocks them down manually with a trowel. The effect is a textured surface that is highly heat-reflective.

Refinish with Concrete Staining

If the surface of the patio is still intact but with ugly stains and discolored areas, then refinishing it would be an ideal solution. Acid or water-based stains can update the look of a concrete patio almost instantly. These do not peel, flake, or peel, especially if a sealer is applied on the stained concrete.

• Acid stain - This is a reactive stain that creates random effects and shades of the chosen color. The result is a mottled, stone-like look that is unique and can never be replicated. The colors of this solution are semi-translucent.

• Water-based stain - This is a non-reactive solution that produces opaque, more consistent colors. This is a perfect choice if you plan to customize the patio with a pattern or image.

Score, Engrave, or Cut

Scoring, engraving, or saw-cutting a concrete patio is an effective method of dealing with working cracks. Working cracks are those that keep recurring and are caused by something unstoppable, like soil movement. Cutting along the direction of the cut gives the slab more space for movement. As a result, it does not create more cracks. Just make sure that an experienced contractor does the cutting for it to be decorative and efficient in addressing the cracks. Popular designs for scoring or engraving are vines, swirls, repeated patterns, and the like.

See Full Article Here:} What to Do With an Ugly & Damaged Concrete Patio