Swimming Pool Repair

Pool Contractors, Swimming Pool Maintenance, Swimming Pool Repair

Miami Professional Swimming Pool Cleaning Made Easy

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Taking care of your swimming pool is important. Make sure you know the basics for maintaining your above-ground, or saltwater pool. If you understand how your pool works, how to keep it in good shape, and how to plan, you can tackle any pool problem that comes up. Regular maintenance is the key!   The Basic Components of a Swimming Pool Four components of every type of pool require regular maintenance. The four components are: 1. Pool Water The water in your swimming pool might seem simple, but it’s crucial for a pool that lasts a long time. Clear and balanced water protects you and your family from pollutants and keeps your pool in good shape. It prevents costly problems like corrosion or mineral buildup, making your pool last longer. Keep your water clean and balanced for a lasting and enjoyable pool experience. 2. Pool Interior Your pool liner is constantly in contact with the water and anything that enters your pool. Keep these surfaces clean, and free of mold, algae, and debris. This will keep your pool safe and clean. 3. Pool Filter System The pump in your pool is like its heart, and it works just like your heart does for your body. It circulates the water, just like your heart circulates blood. And the filter in your pool is like its liver it takes out dirt and bacteria, similar to what your liver does with your blood. Both the pump and filter protect you and your pool. Without a working filter, your pool would get really dirty. There are different types of filters, like cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) filters. If your pool uses saltwater, you can also use a chlorinator. Each type helps keep your pool clean and safe. 4. Pool Skimmers & Returns Your skimmers, different from the net skimmer (the cleaning tool on a telescoping pole), pull water into the filter for cleaning. The returns then push the cleaned water back into your pool. It’s essential to keep them clean, similar to how your veins work best when they’re clear. As time goes on, you might encounter unique challenges in maintaining your pool. If you understand these four components pump, filter, skimmers, and returns – you’ll be ready to handle most pool maintenance tasks.   GET A FREE QUOTE CONTACT US AT (305) 590-5263     The Three C’s of Proper Pool Maintenance Three simple, but essential concepts are the foundation for effective pool maintenance: circulation; cleaning; and chemicals. 1. Good Water Circulation Keeping the water moving in your pool makes it cleaner, safer, and clearer. Good pool circulation creates a healthy and safe place to swim. When circulation is good, you won’t often deal with cloudy water or pool algae. To make sure the water keeps moving, run your filter and pump every day. How long should you run your pool pump? Ideally, you should run it 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your filter should run for at least 10-12 hours each day. This helps clean and keep your pool safe by moving the water several times. Another crucial part of good pool circulation is backwashing your filter. Backwashing means reversing the water flow to send dirty water, contaminants, and debris to the waste port. It’s vital to learn the right way to clean your pool filter and make it a regular part of your pool maintenance routine. 2. A Pool Cleaning Schedule You’ve made cleaning your pool easier if it circulates properly. You’ll need to put in some elbow grease. You’ll need the following basic tools: Net skimmer Pool brush Pool Vacuum Mother Nature and people who use your pool bring in all sorts of things, from leaves and mold to unexpected visitors like ducks or frogs, and even products like shampoos and perfumes. Cleaning your pool is crucial for safe swimming, especially considering the risk of bacterial contaminants. Every week, it’s a good idea to brush, skim, and vacuum your pool. Doing this helps keep the water clean and free of debris. To make cleaning easier, try some unconventional tricks. Tossing tennis balls into the pool can soak up surface oils from things like suntan lotions and cosmetics. For a finer filter, wrap your skimmer’s baskets in pantyhose. This catches more contaminants than just using a skimmer alone. Keeping your pool clean ensures a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. 3. Balancing Your Water Chemistry Avoid using Bunsen burners; you don’t need to worry about pool chemistry. Basic pool chemistry, although essential for maintenance, can be surprisingly simple. The most important tool for taking care of your pool water is a water testing kit. Just like you wouldn’t taste your stew before seasoning it, before adding chemicals to your pool, test the water. Understanding what’s in your pool water and what’s missing is the first step in keeping it balanced. Testing regularly helps maintain a healthy and enjoyable swimming environment. Three important components of pool water chemistry include: pH level: This measures how acidic or basic your pool water is. Low pH is acidic, while high pH is basic. Aim for the ideal range of 7.4 – 7.6. Alkalinity: It acts as a buffer to prevent extreme changes in acidity or basicity. The recommended range is 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm), and you can raise it using baking soda. Levels of sanitizer: This indicates the amount of chlorine, bromine, etc., in your pool water. The correct levels depend on the type of sanitizer you use. Regularly check and adjust these levels for a safe and clean swimming environment. You can add chemicals to your water to adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels once you have determined your levels. Follow all directions and make sure to understand what each chemical will do and how it will affect the water and people who swim in it before adding it. Don’t Forget to Add Pool Shock! Your sanitizer might need a boost now and then, especially after

Pool Contractors, Swimming Pool Maintenance, Swimming Pool Repair

Miami Professional Swimming Pool Cleaning Made Easy

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Taking care of your swimming pool is important. Make sure you know the basics for maintaining your above-ground, or saltwater pool. If you understand how your pool works, how to keep it in good shape, and how to plan, you can tackle any pool problem that comes up. Regular maintenance is the key!   The Basic Components of a Swimming Pool Four components of every type of pool require regular maintenance. The four components are: 1. Pool Water The water in your swimming pool might seem simple, but it’s crucial for a pool that lasts a long time. Clear and balanced water protects you and your family from pollutants and keeps your pool in good shape. It prevents costly problems like corrosion or mineral buildup, making your pool last longer. Keep your water clean and balanced for a lasting and enjoyable pool experience. 2. Pool Interior Your pool liner is constantly in contact with the water and anything that enters your pool. Keep these surfaces clean, and free of mold, algae, and debris. This will keep your pool safe and clean. 3. Pool Filter System The pump in your pool is like its heart, and it works just like your heart does for your body. It circulates the water, just like your heart circulates blood. And the filter in your pool is like its liver it takes out dirt and bacteria, similar to what your liver does with your blood. Both the pump and filter protect you and your pool. Without a working filter, your pool would get really dirty. There are different types of filters, like cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous Earth (D.E.) filters. If your pool uses saltwater, you can also use a chlorinator. Each type helps keep your pool clean and safe. 4. Pool Skimmers & Returns Your skimmers, different from the net skimmer (the cleaning tool on a telescoping pole), pull water into the filter for cleaning. The returns then push the cleaned water back into your pool. It’s essential to keep them clean, similar to how your veins work best when they’re clear. As time goes on, you might encounter unique challenges in maintaining your pool. If you understand these four components pump, filter, skimmers, and returns – you’ll be ready to handle most pool maintenance tasks.   GET A FREE QUOTE CONTACT US AT (305) 590-5263     The Three C’s of Proper Pool Maintenance Three simple, but essential concepts are the foundation for effective pool maintenance: circulation; cleaning; and chemicals. 1. Good Water Circulation Keeping the water moving in your pool makes it cleaner, safer, and clearer. Good pool circulation creates a healthy and safe place to swim. When circulation is good, you won’t often deal with cloudy water or pool algae. To make sure the water keeps moving, run your filter and pump every day. How long should you run your pool pump? Ideally, you should run it 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Your filter should run for at least 10-12 hours each day. This helps clean and keep your pool safe by moving the water several times. Another crucial part of good pool circulation is backwashing your filter. Backwashing means reversing the water flow to send dirty water, contaminants, and debris to the waste port. It’s vital to learn the right way to clean your pool filter and make it a regular part of your pool maintenance routine. 2. A Pool Cleaning Schedule You’ve made cleaning your pool easier if it circulates properly. You’ll need to put in some elbow grease. You’ll need the following basic tools: Net skimmer Pool brush Pool Vacuum Mother Nature and people who use your pool bring in all sorts of things, from leaves and mold to unexpected visitors like ducks or frogs, and even products like shampoos and perfumes. Cleaning your pool is crucial for safe swimming, especially considering the risk of bacterial contaminants. Every week, it’s a good idea to brush, skim, and vacuum your pool. Doing this helps keep the water clean and free of debris. To make cleaning easier, try some unconventional tricks. Tossing tennis balls into the pool can soak up surface oils from things like suntan lotions and cosmetics. For a finer filter, wrap your skimmer’s baskets in pantyhose. This catches more contaminants than just using a skimmer alone. Keeping your pool clean ensures a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. 3. Balancing Your Water Chemistry Avoid using Bunsen burners; you don’t need to worry about pool chemistry. Basic pool chemistry, although essential for maintenance, can be surprisingly simple. The most important tool for taking care of your pool water is a water testing kit. Just like you wouldn’t taste your stew before seasoning it, before adding chemicals to your pool, test the water. Understanding what’s in your pool water and what’s missing is the first step in keeping it balanced. Testing regularly helps maintain a healthy and enjoyable swimming environment. Three important components of pool water chemistry include: pH level: This measures how acidic or basic your pool water is. Low pH is acidic, while high pH is basic. Aim for the ideal range of 7.4 – 7.6. Alkalinity: It acts as a buffer to prevent extreme changes in acidity or basicity. The recommended range is 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm), and you can raise it using baking soda. Levels of sanitizer: This indicates the amount of chlorine, bromine, etc., in your pool water. The correct levels depend on the type of sanitizer you use. Regularly check and adjust these levels for a safe and clean swimming environment. You can add chemicals to your water to adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels once you have determined your levels. Follow all directions and make sure to understand what each chemical will do and how it will affect the water and people who swim in it before adding it. Don’t Forget to Add Pool Shock! Your sanitizer might need a boost now and then, especially after

Pool Contractors, Swimming Pool Repair

Expert Swimming Pool Repair Service for a Trouble-Free Pool

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Florida Pool Patio is ready to assist you with pool equipment repairs and swimming pool repair service in Miami, FL. With over 20 years of experience, our team specializes in selling and servicing all major brands of swimming equipment. We are also authorized by manufacturers to handle warranty claims. Our pool professionals understand the importance of pool heaters, filters, pumps, and lighting in ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

Pool Contractors, Swimming Pool Repair

Expert Swimming Pool Repair Service for a Trouble-Free Pool

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Florida Pool Patio is ready to assist you with pool equipment repairs and swimming pool repair service in Miami, FL. With over 20 years of experience, our team specializes in selling and servicing all major brands of swimming equipment. We are also authorized by manufacturers to handle warranty claims. Our pool professionals understand the importance of pool heaters, filters, pumps, and lighting in ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

Repair Tips, Swimming Pool Maintenance, Swimming Pool Repair

How to Find a Leak in an Above Ground Pool

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Understanding how to find a leak in an above-ground pool may be simpler than you think. If the water level in your pool is lower than usual or if you’ve noticed your skimmer sucking in air while you were enjoying a warm day by the pool, these could both be indicators of a potential pool leak. Detecting a leak in an above ground pool is typically straightforward, as all the plumbing and mechanical components are exposed due to the pool’s above-ground location.   Preparing for the Leak Detection Process Leaks can occur in several places: plumbing lines, machinery, or any area with a penetration. Before you start troubleshooting, it’s important to carefully observe the condition of each of these areas. Pay attention to the water level, as it can provide clues about the source of the leak. For larger leaks, try to estimate the amount of time it took for the leak to become noticeable after the last time the pool was filled.   Safety Considerations Repairing a leak in a pool always carries certain risks, including water loss or potential damage to nearby property. Before starting any repair work, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings. Ensure that there are no sharp objects or tools in the vicinity that could cause additional damage. If you observe water escaping from the pool in unexpected places, don’t hesitate to call a professional immediately.   What You’ll Need Equipment and Tools Teflon tape pH testing liquid Silicone Repair kit for underwater patches Materials 6-1 Screwdriver (for hose clips) Caulking gun Small, medium, and large Channel Locks Open-ended wrench set   How to Find a Leak in an Above Ground Pool: Step-by-Step Guide 1. Turn Off the Pump Turn off the pump. Keep the water as still as possible to help locate the leak. Use the pH-testing liquid to check if the water is still draining. 2. Water Level Observation Take note of the water level. If the water level is lower than the skimmer’s mouth, there may be a pool leak. The leak is likely in the mechanical system or the penetrations. Follow steps 3, 4, and 5 to address this. If not, evaluate the liner using steps 6 and 7. 3. Check the Penetrations for Leaking Inspect the exposed pipes for any wetness or puddles around fittings and connection points. This could indicate a leak. Stand on the edge of the pool, look into the pool, and spray a large amount of liquid in the area around the return fittings and skimmer’s mouth. If there is a problem, you will see the liquid being sucked up into the surrounding area. Use a screwdriver to replace the gaskets, which can be found at your local pool supply shop. 4. Check the Pump Motor Connection Examine the connection between the pump motor and hose. Look for any nearby puddles or moisture. If you find any, trace the water trail to the suspected joint. You may discover a cracked or loose hose, a loosely secured hose clamp, or a threaded connection. It is better to replace a cracked or loose hose than to risk expensive repairs. The pool motor is designed to be cooled with water, and running it dry could cause it to burn. Replace the cracked hose with one of the same length and size, securing both ends with hose clips. If you are comfortable with minor mechanical work, you can fix the problem yourself if it’s coming from a screwed fitting. Close the skimmer’s mouth using a stop plate, then turn the multiport to the closed position. If the return valve is located outside the pool, close it as well. Drain the section by removing the hose from the threaded pipe using channel locks. Apply silicone liberally to the threads, then rethread the hose using channel locks, being careful not to overtighten it. Stop immediately once you feel resistance. 5. Check Your Pool Filter Some pool filters may have leaking drain plugs. If you find that this is the source of the leak, apply silicone to the threads and retighten the screw securely. Most pool filters also have a pressure gauge and a release valve. If you suspect a leak from the valve release, tighten the valve. If it doesn’t tighten, stop and replace the filter. Take the model and make of your filter to your local pool store. If the gauge fitting is leaking, use a wrench to remove it. Apply Teflon tape to the threads when reattaching the gauge fitting. To apply the Teflon tape correctly, hold the gauge in your left hand and apply the tape towards you. When screwing in the gauge again, the Teflon tape should stay on the threads without unraveling. WARNING If you notice water leaking between the motor and housing of your pump, call a professional. This indicates that the spring-loaded mechanism in the motor is no longer functioning and needs to be replaced. Repairing this requires disassembling the pump and electrically disconnecting the motor. 6. Check for Liner Rips Around Ladders and Stairs If the water is below the skimmer’s mouth and return fitting and there are no visible penetrations, there is a high probability that the liner is torn. The water will stop leaking when it reaches the level of the tear. To find the leak, inspect the area where ladders, stairs, or other objects rub against the wall or floor of the liner. Look for tears or wear marks. You can test the pH of any suspicious area by squirting the liquid tester near the spot where the wear is visible. If the leak is present, you will see the liquid being sucked in. Follow the instructions provided in the repair kit. Don’t hesitate to use more material than you need. These kits are typically used only once or twice in the lifetime of a pool. It’s important to use a large enough piece to properly adhere to the liner and cover the entire tear after applying the

Swimming Pool Care, Swimming Pool Repair

How to Find a Pool Leak: A Step-by-Step Guide

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If you’re wondering how to find a pool leak, you’ve come to the right place. Leaks in your pool can happen anywhere, and it’s important to know the steps involved in identifying and addressing them. Before you embark on the process of locating a pool leak, it’s essential to rule out other potential issues such as evaporation and cracks in your filter system plumbing.   How Can You Tell Where Your Pool Is Leaking? You’ll want to check your plumbing and pool equipment before you start any testing. Verify the condition of the entire filter system, including your pool filter, heater, and chlorinator, as well as any O-rings or connections that may be leaking water. These leaks are relatively easy to fix. However, there is still a possibility that there is a leak somewhere in your plumbing system that you cannot see. If you have an underground swimming pool, it’s possible for the piping to crack. Even if there is no visible plumbing leak, it’s important to check your pool first to ensure that water is not being lost due to evaporation.   Is Your Pool Evaporating or Leaking? To detect a pool leak, you must first determine whether water loss is due to evaporation. Once you have ruled out evaporation, you can proceed to identify the source of the leak. There are two common methods for this: the Bucket Test and the Ink Test. Pool Leak Detection: Bucket Test You probably already have the materials you need to complete this DIY project. 5-gallon bucket Waterproof marker or duct tape Place the bucket and fill it. Position your 5-gallon empty bucket on the second step in your pool. Fill the bucket to the same level as the water in the pool. Mark this level with duct tape or a marker. Turn off the pump. Switch off any auto-refill devices you may own, including the recirculating pumps. Compare the water levels. Compare the water levels in the bucket and the pool after 24 hours. If both the bucket and pool water levels have decreased but are still the same, then your pool is losing a significant amount of water through evaporation. If the level of the swimming pool is lower than that in the bucket, you likely have a leak. Repeat the test with the pump on. Repeat the test again for another 24 hours, but this time keep the pump running. Compare the results. If the water loss is greater when the water is under pressure, it will be more evident that there is a leak in your pool. Pool Leak Detection: Dye Test You can use this method to find the exact location of the leak, but it is a bit more complicated. To add dye to your pool, you’ll need to buy it. You can also use waterproof tape to mark any leaks in your pool. Check the walls and ground around the pool. If you observe water on the ground where it shouldn’t be, it may indicate a leak in that particular area. Before using leak-finder dye, continue narrowing down the potential leak location. Shut off the water pump and any other features. The water should be calm and clear when applying the dye. This method is also useful for detecting leaks near or in the skimmer Utilize pool leak detection dye to identify the leak’s precise location. Squirt the dye into the water near the pool’s surface and the wall without making physical contact. You will notice the dye moving towards the leak location, resembling a current. Mark the spot for patching. Use waterproof adhesive tape to mark the area where the leak detection dye is moving. This will help you remember where to apply the patch and seal the leak. To perform the test, you’ll need to wear goggles if you suspect the leak is in the pool bottom. It’s important to remain as still as possible during the test to prevent the dye from spreading. If you have a concrete or gunite swimming pool that has developed cracks, you’ll need to repair the plaster, especially where the plastic skimmer joins the pool wall. If your pool is lined with vinyl, you can fix the patch yourself.   How to Fix a Leak on Your Pool’s Vinyl Liner Repairing leaks in a vinyl-lined pool is relatively easy. A properly placed and high-quality patch can last for many years. However, it’s important to note that all patches are temporary, and the larger the tear, the higher the chance of peeling or snagging over time. Before attempting any pool repairs, assess whether the liner is worth patching or if it’s time to replace it entirely. As the liner ages, it becomes thinner and more susceptible to developing leaks. Keep in mind that areas near the stairs and fittings of your pool are under greater stress due to water movement. Consequently, these areas may not last as long as others. There are three waterproof methods to repair a leak. It is not necessary to drain the pool water in order to patch a hole. Draining too much water from an above-ground pool can cause the walls to collapse. Additionally, emptying a pool with a vinyl lining will cause it to dry out and become brittle. Plan to repair the liner below the waterline unless there is a dry leak above it. 1. Waterproof Tape This tape is similar to duct tape, but it is clear, waterproof, and UV-resistant. It can be overlapped to repair larger areas. This is the most cost-effective option and also the easiest to fix if you make a mistake. However, it is more suitable for small leaks as it may peel over time. 2. Peel-and Stick Patches These patches are made from genuine vinyl and are specifically designed for pool repairs. Some patches come pre-cut in round shapes to minimize the chances of peeling along the edges. These patches are user-friendly and affordable: simply remove the backing and apply them directly onto the

Swimming Pool Repair

How to Clean a Green Swimming Pool?

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Owning a swimming pool has its perks. You can relax poolside after a long day of work, enjoy the warm summer days, and stay fit by swimming daily.  However, there are a few steps to go through before enjoying a swim. Before even owning one, you need to find an excellent swimming pool construction company, as it will determine the quality of the final work and how much time you’ll need to spend around it in the future. And after the construction, maintaining the pool will be your only chore. Though it has to be checked often, keeping the water in pristine condition won’t be that difficult. Keep in mind that you’ll need to maintain it daily to enjoy the water properly. You’ll need to know what to do when your pool is green and how to act in many other different situations. So, get ready to fight off swimming pool algae.    But even with those bits of snags along the way, having a pool is one of the best things you can have in your backyard. It provides fun for the whole family, so how can you say no to one?    If you are interested to know what pool maintenance looks like and what to do when your pool is green, keep reading this article. We will talk about essential daily care and how to get from green to blue pool.    Daily Maintenance of the Pool   You must maintain your swimming pool correctly to enjoy it properly and keep yourself and your family safe and healthy. The worst thing you can do is neglect it and expect the water to be crystal clear. But don’t worry. Even if it seems like it, daily pool maintenance is not a hassle.  You can do everything you need to in just 15 minutes or less, so you won’t even look at it as a chore. And it will keep the water crystal clear and your pool immaculate.   Every morning you should inspect and look for swimming pool algae and if the water seems cloudy. If there are any, you can quickly sweep them away.    Net out any leaves that have fallen into the water alongside insects. Also, check the skimmer nets and remove anything collected inside them, like leaves or insects.    Check the chlorine levels and adjust if anything is needed.    If the water doesn’t look good and seems cloudy, backwash the sand filter for a bit.   Always check the pH and be sure that it’s between 7.2 and 7.6. If something is wrong and the level is off, you’ll need to adjust it to make your water safe for swimming.   How to Fight Off Swimming Pool Algae    One of the most annoying things that can happen is algae overgrowth. And sometimes it can happen even if you do everything we mentioned above.    If you regularly maintain your pool and do the daily inspections, but you go on a vacation for a week or two, you’ll probably see something you don’t like when you come back. You can experience an unpleasant welcome with algae all over your lovely pool.    Even if something like this happens, you don’t have to panic or be upset. It’s a tiny stumbling block that you can overcome effortlessly and have your pool looking sharp once again in no time.    What to Do When Your Pool Is Green   So, you’ve come home, and your pool is green. It’s normal to feel a bit stressed out, but there’s no time to cry as you need to start working if you want to swiftly go from green to blue pool.    Green to blue pool in a few steps:  First of all, clean anything that has fallen into the pool; leaves, insects, or any other debris. You can quickly do it with a net.    It’s time to get a bit wet because you’ll need to get into the water and start scrubbing. You’ll want to brush away all swimming pool algae from the walls and the floor.    It’s essential to check and clean the built-in pump filter.    Furthermore, you’ll need to backwash the sand filter, which you should do for a few minutes.    Check if the pH level is correct, and adjust it if not. This is an essential step, so don’t skip it. The pH level must be appropriate if you want the chemicals you’ll be adding in the future to work.   Always check the chlorine levels and add more chlorine to the water. It will serve as a quick cure. However, it’s essential to follow the instructions and not overdo it.    Backwash the sand filter again, but do it after approximately 12 hours.    Finally, replace the skimmer nets if they are clogged with algae. Sometimes, this step is not necessary.  After you are done with everything, you’ll need to wait for about 24 hours to see the complete results. The filtration system will make the water clear again and eliminate swimming pool algae. You’ll probably see some remaining’s at the bottom, and you can easily remove them.   The Last Resort When Getting from Green to Blue Pool  Sometimes the procedure mentioned above won’t be enough. It happens rarely, but your pool can look rough if you haven’t been home for an extended period.  If the water is so green and you can’t see anything in the pool, you can’t salvage it by simply scrubbing the walls, adjusting chlorine levels, and backwashing the sand filter.   When you can’t even see your hand under the water, the best alternative is to empty the pool. It may seem like an annoyance, but it’s the best thing you can do. And in the end, you’ll have crystal clear surroundings to swim in.   You may have too much stabilizer in the pool as you usually add it besides chlorine. In average amounts, the stabilizer helps chlorine and prevents it from being destroyed by UV rays. However, this kind of acid doesn’t evaporate, and there’s a possibility there’s too much of it.  And if

Pool Remodeling, Pool Renovation, Repair Tips, Swimming Pool, Swimming Pool Maintenance, Swimming Pool Repair

Pool Remodeling: How It’s Done

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Is it time for swimming pool renovations? Reading this blog might be a step in the right direction if you’ve been thinking about it for a while but aren’t sure where to start. We’ll take you through a complete step-by-step guide of the pool remodeling process and share some beneficial tips along the way. Tilling, adding water, and balancing the chemicals are all necessary tasks you must perform during this job.  There will be a lot to learn if you are new to this. So keep reading, and prepare yourself for the upcoming pool refurbishment. What to Expect From a Pool Remodeling  First of all, you should be aware that unplanned mishaps constantly happen at construction sites. What you may not know is that most contractors calculate some of them into the opening date.  Some unfortunate events may derail your swimming pool renovations regardless of how well you plan. Luckily, that is nothing to stress about. It’s important to know that these things happen, and it’s unlikely that the pool remodeling will finish in planned time. The first thing you’ll need to complete your pool remodel is a relaxed mind. Don’t worry about the little things or mistakes that the workers can correct. Contractors have backup plans for most of the work they do and, with a few adjustments, they will overcome any construction obstacles they stumble upon.  Swimming Pool Renovations – Step by Step Draining Emptying the pool is the first step of any remodeling job. Using a submersible pump is the proper way to do this. Place the machine at the bottom, let the hose leak the water to the outside, and your swimming area will be empty in 6 to 12 hours. Depending on the size of the job, most workers will drain and chip out the pool on the same day.  Chipping out Chances are, if you want to remodel, you aren’t satisfied with the current tilling of your swimming area. Therefore, most pool refurbishment jobs require chipping out. During this step, the contractors will remove the old tiles. It may be a bit loud and seem messy at first, but the workers will clean up once they finish this part of the job. Tiling This step is where your creativity goes to work. You get to choose what type, color, and size of tiles you wish. The workers will apply the grout. The entire tiling process takes 1 or 2 days to finish, depending on the number of tiles needed. Surface Application Surface Application is the “big job.” The contractor will bring in trucks with pebble and plaster onto your property. Then, once the surface material is mixed, it will be poured into the pool using large hoses. The professionals will then trowel the surface for some time. This job usually takes somewhere between 4 and 6 hours. Pebble Application Pebble application won’t take too much of your time. Most often, this step is completed in a couple of hours. Once this job is done, we can proceed to the finishing touch – an acid wash. Adding Water Once the workers finish all of the previous steps, they will proceed and fill up the pool. It’s best if the pool owner is present during this process. The one thing you mustn’t do is turn off the water flow before the pool is full. If you do this, you risk leaving water lines on the surface. Keep in mind that this step takes between 12 and 48 hours, so plan ahead if you can’t be around. Slowing down the water flow isn’t a big mistake, as long as you don’t turn it off completely. Balancing the Chemicals A chemical startup is a process of balancing the chemicals in your pool to make the water safe to swim in. If you, as a homeowner, plan on doing this yourself, make sure to prep and do your research before the beginning. Water chemicals aren’t something to play with, and being safe is the most important part of the startup. Note that all water will require the same chemicals but in different quantities. It will take you more time to balance the water of a plastered pool compared to a pebble-based one. House Owner’s Role During a Pool Refurbishment If you hire a contractor to remodel your swimming space, there won’t be many chores you can do to help and speed up the process. However, some things may help the job go smoother. For starters, be there when the mixer comes in. If you’ve decided on a colored plaster for your pool surface, you should be present when the workers mix the color. This way, you’ll be able to see and influence the hue before it’s all over the surface. As we mentioned before, keeping an eye on the water level will be your job as well. Keep the H2O running, ensure the flow is consistent, and don’t let it flood.  And, the last task you are in charge of is hiring the people to do chemical check-ups. Even if you balance the water yourself, getting a professional to come out and do the testing themselves is the best idea, at least once in a while. What to Expect After a Pool Remodeling Tiny Cracks The steps are the last area of the pool that gets filled up with water, so naturally, there may be some cracks along their surface. However, this isn’t anything alarming. These tiny imperfections won’t influence the overall look of the pool. Stains It is entirely normal for the final remodel to come out stained in some places. Workers operate with a variety of materials, and some of them will likely end up on the pool’s surface. Luckily, these are easily removable with an acid wash. Pebbles Dislodging This may happen if you go for a pebble-based pool. If it does, simply call a service that can help with this, and the issue will be resolved in no time. Imperfect Matches Getting your pool

Swimming Pool, Swimming Pool Maintenance, Swimming Pool Repair

Preparing Your Pool for the Summer

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Is it already that time of the year when we are all getting the pool ready for the summer? Judging by the weather – it definitely is! Although it’s always hot here, summer is the ‘traditional’ time to open your pool and enjoy everything it has to offer. So, if you still haven’t opened your pool to the public then you probably have a couple of questions roaming around in your head. How to clean a pool? What chemicals do I need for my pool? And, is there a pool service near me? Those are all valid questions to have before your swimming pool cleaning and opening. Lucky for you, we answered all of them. Check out our blog and get all the tips on how to prepare your pool for the summer. It Isn’t a Good Idea to Empty the Pool No matter where you live, even if it gets cold, and what other excuse you have to do it, emptying the pool is still not a good idea. And, you’ll see why.  The first thing you need to have before you winterize your pool is a cover. It will make getting the pool ready for summer a lot easier. Not having to pick up leaves from the pool is one of the benefits a pool covering allows you. And when it comes to swimming pool cleaning, it’s a pretty wanted benefit. A lot of people empty their pools because of fear of cold weather, but this isn’t the way to go. Wherever your pool is situated, the weight of the water is necessary to keep it in place. Most pool owners make the mistake of emptying their pool during the winter, which ends up costing them their pool. The weight of the water in the pool usually keeps it in place no matter what level the groundwater is at the moment. However, if you decide to empty your pool during a high groundwater table your pool may pop out of place. So don’t make this mistake if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a new pool. Clean the Pool Before Anything Else Swimming pool cleaning usually starts with a process called “chemical opening.” It is the first step of every “how to clean a pool” manual. Now is the time to do it. You’ve used some plugs and covers to keep your pool closed during winter and spring, but summer is here, and you can take them off. It’s best to keep the cover on before you clean it. Take off all the branches and other debris that may have accumulated, sweep the covering and be careful not to tear it. After you’re done, uncover your pool. Make sure to check all the baskets and remove all the plugs from the pool. Correct the Water Level Hopefully, you left the water inside the pool, and now it’s still in place. If you haven’t already, checking out a “pool service near me” might be your best option.  Water levels tend to change during the winter, and most likely you’ll have to add some water to correct the level in your pool. Also, clean out the pool filter. The filter cleaning process varies depending on the type of filter you have. A sand filter cleans out the dirt when the backwash setting is on, a D.E. filter needs to be taken apart before cleaning, and a cartridge filter is good to go after being hosed down. Just remove the cartridge first. Get the Water Tested by Professionals Most people who aren’t professional pool cleaners don’t know how to clean a pool properly and are left wondering “what chemicals do I need for my pool?” Well, googling “pool service near me” is one of the best ideas for getting the pool ready for summer. Just one of the things professionals can do for you is to have your water tested.  We can give you all the numbers you need to make your pool summer-ready. We can calculate your current water state and tell you how to adjust everything before the opening. You’ll get all the numbers, from the alkalinity to the chlorine levels. And, in most cases, it doesn’t cost nearly as much as it’s worth. So call us at Florida Pool Patio, and have your water tested before the next step. The Most Important Step – Balancing the Chemicals In order to have the pool ready for the summer, you need to prepare the water first. Certain chemical characteristics must be fulfilled before you take a dip.  Let’s start with chlorine. Chlorine levels in your pool should vary from 1 to 3 ppm (parts per million). How do you affect those levels? There are two most common solutions. If you don’t have any metal in your pool, you can try cyanuric-based tablets. You shouldn’t use them if your heater or filter is made out of metal since the tablets might eat through it. If you can’t use them, try going with a plastic chlorinator. It’s best to hire someone who knows what they’re doing and have them attach the chlorinator to the filter system.  The alkalinity can vary between 80 and 120. Fix it by using soda ash to increase and muriatic acid to decrease the levels. By keeping optimal alkalinity levels, the PH value of the water will stay consistent.  The PH levels in your pool need to be between 7.2 and 7.4. The levels increase and decrease when you adjust the alkalinity, so using the same solutions to adjust the PH will work. You can use sodium bisulfate to decrease PH levels as well. It’s also important to adjust calcium levels in the pool. The softness of the water determines how much calcium it consumes. Use calcium chloride to adjust these levels and have your calcium hardness between 150 and 250 ppm.  Vacuum the Floor No matter how clean you keep the pool all year long, it will still need vacuuming before the

Swimming Pool, Swimming Pool Maintenance, Swimming Pool Repair

Pool Opening Checklist

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Summer is here! If you didn’t open your pool by now, this is that time of the year! The temperature is getting higher every day, and naturally, people need to cool off. The only problem is your pool was covered during the colder weather, and now you need to know how to open a pool for summer.  Well, no worries! We have created the perfect pool opening checklist for you. Read on if you want to know when to clean the leaves, check the pumps, or add water. And, if you don’t feel like doing the job, you can always hire a swimming pool service. That way you’ll know the job will be done correctly, and there will be no work for you. Clean All the Excess Off Your Pool Cover Your pool has most likely been covered since October or so, and since that time, a lot has happened. Most importantly – fall happened. And during the fall, leaves end up on top of your protection. So before your pool opens you need to clean up everything on top of the cover.  Be careful when you do this because you don’t want to damage the covering. If you tear your protection, leaves and dirt might go through the hole. This will make your job of cleaning the pool more difficult. And, to make the damage even worse, you won’t have a cover for next year. Your covering has likely accumulated some water during its time outside. So before you take it off, use a submersible pump to remove the water and make your job a bit easier. It would be best to have a leaf blower for the next step. Using a broom to remove the leaves might damage the covering, so blowing it all off would be best. Lastly, you can sweep the remaining dust, and you’re ready to take off the cover.  And there you go, the first item on your pool opening checklist is done! Uncover the Pool Uncovering the pool is the next step before having it ready for the official pool opening. For this step, you’ll need the help of a friend to do a proper job as quickly as possible. Once you’re done with cleaning the pool cover, you can unhook the anchors.  Next, have your friend grab one corner while you hold the other one. Lift the covering and pull to the other side of the pool. While doing this, concentrate on not spilling any remaining dirt in the water. If you fail to keep all the dirt out, no worries, you’ll need to clean the pool either way. Fold the cover with your friend all the way to the end of the pool and take it off completely. Depending on how dirty it is, you can wash it just by using a water hose, or try something a bit more serious. If you have a cover cleaning solution, this is the perfect time to use it. If not, you can use diluted bleach as well.  All you need to do is fill a container with the solution and dip your cover in the tub. Once the entire cover is soaked, leave it like that for a few hours. After you take it out, make sure to rinse it with water. After washing it off, and drying the cover, you can safely store it for the next season. Getting the Deck Back in Shape Most people don’t take proper care of their deck outside of the pool season. If you aren’t one of them and your deck is already spotless, you can skip this step. For most pool owners, cleaning the deck is a fundamental part of the pool opening checklist. That’s why we explained how to do it the right way. Everything you’ll need is some water and bleach, a bucket, and a broom. Step 1 – Prepare the solution 8 parts water 1 part bleach 1 part soap Step 2 – Pour the mixed solution all over your deck Step 3 – Scrub the deck with a brush.  It’s best to use a brush with harder bristles. Deck tiles don’t damage easily, and you’ll do a better job cleaning. Step 4 – Rinse off the deck Using a hose would be the easiest way to perform this step, but your bucket can do the trick as well. Set Up the Accessories Your pool isn’t ready for opening unless you have everything that goes along with it. Of course, you can pour water into a hole in the ground, but that’s not what you want in your backyard. Pool accessories are an essential part of your property’s exterior during the summer, and if you’re getting ready for the season, it’s time to bring them out. Some essentials like railings and ladders are going to require some time to put in. But that won’t be a hard job to do. All you need to do is screw a few bolts and they’ll be good to go. This might be a good time to pull out some other accessories that make everything look a bit more summer-ready. If you have LED lights, speakers, or blow-up air mattresses, get them ready. It’s almost time to use them. Fill up the Pool Once again, the importance of this step depends on how you winterized your pool. Most likely, you’ll have to add some water nevertheless. Check the water level compared to the pool skimmer. If the water line is in the middle of the skimmer, you’re good to go. If it’s below, pour some water into the pool.  Prepare and Start the Filter System Before you start your pool systems, make sure you prep them accordingly. Firstly, you must reattach your pump’s drain plug. Then, empty the pump basket and check for any damages to the device. After that, you can add water to the pump.  The filter also has a significant role in keeping your pool fresh. Before you power it, reattach its

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