Most pool supply distributors offer an astounding selection of algaecides and clarifiers for your swimming pool, and if you do not understand how they work, or what their uses are, it can be difficult to make the right choice. The following information will help you cut through the marketing hype, and decide for yourself which product is best for your aquatique swimming pool.

1.    Add preventative algaecide to your swimming pool on a weekly basis if you regularly experience problems with algae growth. If you have never had an algae problem in your swimming pool, there is no need for the algaecide.

2.    Realize that if you have algae right now, you may need to use an algaecide. Some algaecides are preventative and others are used to treat an algae problem. Once algae has grown in your swimming pool, only a treatment algaecide combined with shocking will kill the algae. Read more…

Pool Filters

The filters in this system are high-rate sand filters. Sand filters consist of a large tank, made of fiberglass, concrete or metal, containing a thick bed of special-grade sand, which has a squarish shape.

During filtering operation, dirty water from the pool comes in through the filter’s inlet pipe, which leads to the water distribution head inside the tank. While gravity pulls the water down through the sand, the tiny sand particles catch any dirt and debris. At the bottom of the tank, the filtered water flows through the pick-up unit and out the outlet pipe.

Over time, the collected dirt and debris in the sand slows down the water flow. Pressure gauges at the filter inlet and outlet give the pool custodian an idea of the blockage level inside. If gauges show much greater pressure on the inlet pipe than the outlet pipe, the custodian knows there’s a lot of collected debris in the sand. This means it’s time to backwash the filter. To backwash, the custodian adjusts a number of valves to redirect the water flow. He or she closes the return pipe leading to the pool and opens the drainage pipe, which lead to the sewer system. He or she adjusts a valve at the filter to connect the pipe from the pump to the outlet pipe and connect the drainage pipe to the inlet pipe. With this arrangement, water from the pump pushes up through the sand, dislodging the dirt and debris. At the top of the filter tank, the dirty water flows out through the inlet pipe and into the sewer. Read more…

Pool Drain Systems

We’ve already seen that the water in a swimming pool needs to circulate through a filtering system, to remove dirt and debris. During normal operation, water flows to the filtering system through two or more main drains at the bottom of the pool and multiple skimmer drains around the top of the pool.

Read more…

Conceptually, swimming pools are pretty simple — they’re just big basins of water. But on a hot summer day, a swimming pool can seem like the greatest invention known to man. And as it turns out, there really is a lot of cool technology at work in your average pool — much more than you might expect.

In this article, we’ll find out how pools are built, and we’ll take a look at the plumbing system that keeps the water clean and chemically balanced. 

Pool Basics
Swimming pools come in all shapes and sizes, but nearly all of them, from the backyard personal pool to the water park wave pool, work in the same basic way. They use a combination of filtration and chemical treatment to continually clean a large volume of water. Read more…

Welcome To Our Website

We are happy that you have taken the time to view this site and the articles listed on it. They can be helpful especially regarding pool design, construction and maintenance. Please use the links from the BlogRoll or from this post to visit the primary site at Aquatique Pools.

How Come Aquatique

Simply put, because they consistently deliver the highest quality custom pools in the industry. If you don’t believe the testimonials featured in the navigation bar, just Aquatique a call. They have beautiful photo examples of their work and great references to back it up.

What Else?

Check out the rest of the pages on this site, like our pool photos. They are a great way to brainstorm ideas for your own custom pool. Take the opportunity to raise the value of your property and the quality of your life and design your own pool today!

A Pool of Possibility

Different types of Pools

In Ground Pools

In Ground Pools typically come in one of three main types, concrete, vinyl and fiberglass.  In today’s market, almost all types of pools offer a wide range of options and come in all price ranges.  For example, finishes, water features and hot tubs are available for all types of pools.  Generally, any type of pool is ideal for some situations and most likely acceptable in any situation.  For every situation there are pluses and minuses to each type of pool.  It is also important to note that not all types of pools are equally available in all locations.  In some markets there may be a six month waiting list for one type of pool and a 20% price premium as well.  It is a mistake to go into the pool purchase process determined to pick one type of pool over another or unwilling to make design decisions based on availability and price.  It is also important to be open minded about design options.  The best way to understand the advantages and disadvantages for each type for your specific situation is to speak to the experts.  Aquatique Pools only does in ground pools

Concrete Pools - Gunite or Shotcrete Pools

Concrete pools are often referred to as Gunite or Shotcrete pools.  The terms gunite and shotcrete primarily refer to the application process of the concrete to the pool’s steel structure.  Basically, gunite in pumped in the pool’s steel skeleton and shotcrete is sprayed into the pool’s steel skeleton.

Concrete pools can be finished with plaster, pebble aggregate, colored plaster, polished marble, glass bead, painting and/or tile. To some degree, concrete pools do offer more design flexibility because by their nature they are custom built.  Popular additions to gunite pools (and pools in general) include spas, rock or step waterfalls.  Concrete pools can take a while to complete, typically between 8 and 12 weeks.

Vinyl Liner Pools

In Ground vinyl pools are typically reinforced steel or other material wall pools with vinyl-liners inside the walls. The walls are prefabricated and locked into place on site.  Once the hole is dug and the walls are in place, the vinyl liner is applied to the pool.

There are a wide variety of pre-fabricated shapes of vinyl liner pools, some types are so flexible that almost any custom design is possible.  Vinyl liners come in many patterns as well from the single color or fancy design.  While the vinyl liners are very strong, reasonable care must be taken to maintain a puncture-free liner.  These pools can usually be installed quicker than concrete pools.

Fiberglass Pools

Fiberglass pools are typically one-piece fiberglass shells that are manufactured off site and shipped to the pool site.  Once the hole is dug and leveled, the fiberglass pool is placed into the hole.  Installation is usually quicker than other types of pools, although similar to vinyl installs.

Above Ground Pools

Above ground swimming pools can be an economical swimming pool solution for swimming pool buyers that are looking for an inexpensive, quick swimming pool.  In addition to being relatively inexpensive, above ground pools can be installed quickly either by a professional above ground pool installer or by do it yourselfers.  Above ground pools can be hard sided or soft sided.  Typically hard sided above ground pools are constructed of fiberglass or metallic materials.  The hard sided above ground pools are typically more expensive and more durable than soft sided options.  Above ground pools can also be soft sided, typically constructed out of latex, rubber or a similar material.  These types of above ground pools are typically economical and start at under $100.   Intex pools which are a popular soft sided above ground pool start at under $100. Prices on above ground swimming pools go up from there from a few hundred dollars for the smaller, simpler pools to thousands of dollars for hard sided above ground pools with decks and more.

Today’s higher end above ground pools are legitimate options for some people that have their heart’s set on in ground pools.  For people with slanted backyards, or split levels above ground pools may wind up looking and feeling like in ground pools.  Aquatique Pools does not do above ground pools.

10 POINTS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUILDING YOUR SWIMMING POOL

Following these tips will help you have a fun and successful swimming pool project.  Before you sign that contract to build your pool there are at least 10 things that you should consider.

Hire only licensed contractors. Most states require licensing, so don’t be afraid to ask contractors for their contractor license information. Check your state’s website for licensing requirements.  Many states also have pages on their websites where you can search swimming pool and other types of contractors by name, license number, etc.  Many of these sites will also have information about any complaints against the contractor and if the complaints have been resolved.  Please note that most states have contractor license exceptions for small jobs (typically under $400) or jobs that are primarily equipment as opposed to service.

Many state laws may set the maximum percentage or amount of down payments allowable on in ground swimming pool projects. Find out what your state’s maximum is and only give that amount. Be suspicious on any contractor that requires or requests more than the state maximum.
Plan your payment schedule early and follow the agreed upon payment schedule. Most projects involve subcontractors, employees, equipment suppliers and others that are paid as a project proceeds or as needs arise.  A delay in payment may slow down or even stop aspects of your project mid-stream.  A slowed or stalled swimming pool project almost always increases the overall cost of the pool project.  If you anticipate issues with the payment schedule, speak up early as the contractor may be able to move the project schedule around to protect you and your pool project.
Generally, do not pay cash in a lump sum for your swimming pool or any major improvement for that matter. Most contractors expect to receive money at stages during the project. BE SUSPCIOUS of contractors that request you to pay for the entire project in cash up front.  If you must pay for the project up front, consider paying with a credit card – it might be easier to get a refund through your credit card company if the contractor fails to complete your pool project.
Keep accurate records of all papers relating to your swimming pool. This information will help you maintain and take long term care of your pool.  Many of the questions that might come up over time about your pool will probably be answered in the papers that you received during the pool construction.  As papers will get damaged in the elements, store documents indoors.  Also check online resources such as manufacturer’s websites and resources like www.swimmingpoolmagazine.com.
Communication with your builder should be ongoing. Find out who will be responsible for supervising the work on your pool and keep in touch with them.  Find out their full name, office and cell phone and email if available.  Do not assume that the contractor will know what you are thinking about the progress of the project.  If concerns, questions or comments come up, you must let the builder know first hand.  Do not keep quiet or delay telling the builder.  Silence and delays will only increase the cost of correcting the problem.
Make sure that you understand how to work, clean and maintain your pool.  Make sure you understand warranties and how to handle problems when they come up.
Bonus – Make sure that you are ALWAYS SAFE around your pool.  While pools are awesome for family fun, they can also be dangerous.  Make sure that you set and enforce rules for behavior around the pool, research and have on hand the appropriate safety equipment and consider taking a water safety, CPR and related training course through the Red Cross or another organization.

MOST IMPORTANTLY: ENJOY YOUR POOL

If you plan to “DO IT YOURSELF” USE THESE TIPS TO MAKE IT EASIER!

First remove the pool cover, being careful not to let leaves or debris fall into the water.
Clean your cover with a proper cover cleaner and store it in a dry, clean area away from the sun and weather.
Check the condition of the pump, filter and skimmer. Make sure they are in good working order so your chemicals can work as they should.
Fill the pool to the proper level. Vacuum if necessary.
Run filter for 24 hours. Take water test after 24 hours.
Install dive board, grab rails and ladders. Make sure they are safe and working properly.
Clean all winter items, plugs, gizmo’s and deflate water tubes holding your cover down. Store away for use next season.

ENJOY THE HOT SUMMER IN YOUR COOL POOL!!!

Pictures of custom pools can inspire. Even though Aquatique Pools did not necessarily build all of the pools in these images, they are certainly capable of it. They have a strong team of dedicated designers and builders. They have over 100 years of experience in designing and building pools. You should check them out.

For Inspiration

From Aquatique Pools:

Freeform backyard pools

backyard ground pools with a diving ledge

Aquatique Links #1

Aquatique Links #2

Aquatique Links #3

Why own an Aquatique Pool ?

The benefits to owning your own in ground swimming pool , are almost   un-limited, but we would like to present a few for your consideration.

1. Family unity.

In this day and age the role of the parent in the lives of our children has become some what clouded. The busy-ness of our lives and the loose moral standards set for us within our society has made it difficult to remain close to not only our kids, but as families in general. With a swimming pool in your back yard, this situation seems to change. Parents not only know where their children are, but they know with whom they are playing. This fact alone allows us to see first hand who is influencing our kids and allows us the opportunity not only to redirect the focus of our child, but perhaps to identify someone who may benefit from our nurturing, presenting a person who has wayward tendencies, with a more positive influence and maybe even changing the course of an individual’s life. After all, God only knows what can happen when a person makes themselves available to just listen to someone in need !

2. Building memories.

Just imagine little Mary’s birthday party which was going to be in the basement, is now outside the house and around your beautiful pool. Or perhaps the soccer team needs a place for a cook out or even a fund raiser –where else but around the pool ? But maybe all you need is a place to cool off after an extended workout in the garden, imagine the convenience of collapsing into the refreshment that your own in-ground swimming pool provides!

3. Ease of ownership.

In the process of thinking about and discussing the idea of a pool, someone must have given you that wonderful line that goes something like this; “ You don’t want to buy a swimming pool, they’re nothing but a pain. It’s just something else to work on”. Sound familiar? Well , we have to admit, that over the years there has been some real truth to that statement, but a thinking person will quickly realize that the maintenance involved in owning anything is directly proportional to the technology available. That’s why at Aquatique Pools, we use the very latest equipment in our standard package, which reduces daily participation in the care of your pool to only minutes

4. Your backyard “paradise”

The installation of an in-ground swimming pool so transforms your back yard, that it ultimately becomes the focal point of the area. Some cases reveal people who only had a limited interest in their yards are suddenly finding that time spent around the pool area is soothing, relaxing and something to look forward to. At Aquatique Pools we will help you design and place the pool on your lot, to maximize the use of space and create an environment which is both exciting and aesthetically pleasing. Our wide use of stamped and impressioned concrete can add value to the project and take you to a place you have only day-dreamed about. Stamped concrete is done by our daughter company – Decorative Concrete Inc.

5. Physical value.

Not many people realize that by swimming , we use more muscles at one time than any other sport. Obviously this can be of enormous value to those who are sports minded and looking for ways to extend their level of physical fitness. But what about one who suffers with rheumatism and would find great joy in the ability to get into their own aquatique pools ( which of course can be heated ) and enjoy some mild water aerobics to loosen up. Consult your doctor to discover some of the health benefits of swimming and swimming pool related activities.

6.

The last item we would like to present, is done so with great sensitivity and without title. 

We realize that to discuss the tragedies of September 11, 2001 in this particular location, could very easily be viewed as one who is coldly using this situation to take advantage of a marketing opportunity. Far be it from our minds to create that impression ! We are very proud of the industry we represent, and have always believed, as indicated in the preceding paragraphs, that the service we provide to the community is one which has the ability to unite us as families, as friends and as communities. 

Unfortunately, as a result of these tragic events, some things in our country will never be the same again. People are re-thinking their entire lifestyles, where they go, where they meet and how they travel. People are looking for ways to relax and be close to their families in a safe environment. You can find the Original Article Here.

We believe that the service we provide to our clients, assists in providing not only the “back yard paradise”, but more importantly now, a “safe place”, to come together as family and friends, to entertain, to do business and perhaps even vacation.

We hope you will choose to discuss further, the way in which Aquatique Pools may be able to serve you and your families needs.

God bless you in your search.

Welcome to the Site

Welcome an extension of pools. This site will focus on developing content around pool design, construction and maintenance. We hope you all get a chance to check out the main site: Aquatique Pools

Why Aquatique Pools?

Why not? Aquatique Pools delivers some of the most sought after custom design pools in the greater Sacramento area. If you don’t believe it, just check out some of the testimonials featured under the BlogRoll like http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Aquatique.Pools.916-786-0934.

What to expect?

We have numerous articles right now that can show and explan the benefits of a pool. You can browse them as well as the other linked pages like our older site.