Swimming pool pH provides you with a snapshot of the quality of your swimming pool water. If your swimming pool water is too acidic or basic, your pool will not be comfortable for swimming. For example, pool water that is too acidic may be cloudy or cause eye and skin irritation. For help caring for your swimming pool installation, it is a great idea to work with a quality swimming pool contractor in Salt Lake City. A pool company offering swimming pool maintenance will be able to help you balance the chemistry in your conventional or saltwater pool. For more information about swimming pool pH, be sure to watch this video clip.

After your pool installation, it is extremely important to keep up with routine swimming pool maintenance and care. One of the most important steps of pool maintenance is checking your pool water at least twice each week. When you test your pool water, you will get an idea of whether your pool chemicals are balanced, and also whether your pool water will be inviting for swimmers. To test your pool water quickly and easily, it is smart to keep a swimming pool test kit on hand. A swimming pool test kit will check every aspect of your water quality, including pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness, and free chlorine or bromine. In the event that you find that your swimming pool water is continually out of balance, it is a great idea to contact a company offering swimming pool services in Salt Lake City. With professional swimming pool maintenance, you will be able to keep your pool in fantastic condition throughout the years and seasons.

When you are preparing for a swimming pool installation, it is important to create a pool design that matches perfectly with the style and layout of your home and yard. From traditional L-shaped pools to pools with organic, curved designs, your pool contractor in Salt Lake City can help you create the perfect pool for your property. To get the most out of your swimming pool or hot tub installation, it is crucial to work with swimming pool builders who have a great reputation in the local community. Read on for some handy tips to keep in mind when you are choosing a swimming pool layout.

Rectangular Layout

If your yard has a formal look and feel, you may want to choose a rectangular layout for your swimming pool. The rectangle is a classic swimming pool layout that has been used for many centuries. For those pool owners who like to swim laps or perform water aerobics, the rectangular swimming pool is also the perfect shape for getting aquatic exercise.

Oval Layout

To place a unique twist on your swimming pool design, you may want to consider choosing an oval layout. Unlike a rectangular swimming pool, which contains angular edges, an oval swimming pool is rounded on the ends. With an oval swimming pool, you and your loved ones will be able to set up water games around the perimeter of the pool. The softer lines of an oval swimming pool will make this type of pool appear less formal in your yard.

L-Shaped Layout

When you are seeking to maximize your pool deck space, you might want to consider creating a swimming pool that has an L-shaped layout. With an L-shaped swimming pool, your pool will create a natural lounging area that you and your guests can use to enjoy the sunshine. Since an L-shaped pool has a natural contour, you can also create shallow and deep areas that are suited for different swimming activities and games.

Gunite pools are popular choices for homeowners and business owners who are looking to have beautiful, long-lasting pools installed on their properties. Gunite is a pool installation application process where concrete is sprayed over a rebar frame using compressed air. A dry mixture of cement and sand is pushed through a specialized hose. Water is added to hydrate the dry mixture at the nozzle of the hose just before the entire mixture is applied to a new pool’s metal framework. This process makes gunite in-ground pools very durable. And since these pools can be designed and built on site, they can be made in any shape, size, and depth—the possibilities are limited to your property’s lot size, your budget, and your imagination.

When you’re ready to design and build your new gunite pool, hire an experienced pool contractor in Salt Lake City who specializes in more than just pool installation. A good swimming pool company should offer other services such as a pool maintenance program, spa and hot tub installation, and poolside design and construction.

One of the first things you have to consider when you’re planning a swimming pool installation is the style of your new pool. With so many different shapes of pools to pick from, the task of choosing the right one may seem daunting. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be. Your design aesthetic, property’s size, and budget are all important factors in determining the right shape of swimming pool. When in doubt, enlist the help of a reputable pool contractor in Salt Lake City . In the meantime, here are a few common pool shapes you should know about before scheduling a pool installation.

Oval Pools

The shape of an oval pool can be very visually appealing, especially if there are a lot of square edges in your swimming pool area. There are two popular variants to this shape: kidney and figure eight.

Freeform Pools

A freeform pool has no definite or established shape. Design-wise, you can make it look like whatever you wish. Freeform pools can be completely amorphous or fluid, or they can resemble various objects. These pools are a good choice for a homeowner who favors an eccentric or organic design scheme.

Rectangular and Lap Pools

Rectangular pools are popular because of their basic no-frills style. A lap pool is a type of rectangular pool that is used in competitive swimming. These pools are perfect for swimmers who mainly swim for exercise or who are training for competition. Though rectangular pools can be built to fit any size space, they are best in area that are narrow or that are limited in space.

Geometric Pools

Geometric pools have defined shapes that tend to be square in nature. This style of pool can have a modular look to it, which makes it perfect in a contemporary design, and can either be symmetrical or asymmetrical.

Grecian and Roman Pools

Grecian and Roman pools have a recognizably classic look to them—they are rectangular pools with highly stylized, trimmed-off corners. They tend to be large pools that can accommodate a lot of people in them at once.

How to Winterize a Pool

After an exciting summer season of swimming and lounging, pool owners who live in an area where winter temperatures drop below freezing must winterize their pools to protect them during the offseason. Proper winterization is an essential step every pool owner must follow. However, it can be complex and difficult, especially for new pool owners. Our easy-to-understand and thorough guide will provide you with all the information you need to winterize your pool correctly. Whether this is your first season or you’ve been winterizing your pool for years and need a refresher, we’re here to help.

What Is Pool Winterization?

Pool winterization is the process of preparing your swimming pool for the sub-zero winter months. When water freezes, it expands, damaging your pool lining, plumbing, and equipment. By balancing water chemistry, cleaning the pool, lowering the water levels, and protecting the plumbing and equipment, you can prevent costly repairs while keeping the water as clean and clear as possible for opening weekend.

What Are the Benefits of Pool Winterization?

Taking the time to winterize your pool is essential for getting the most from your home’s pool. Winterization offers several significant benefits, including:

• Prevents Equipment Damage – When water freezes, it expands, causing your plumbing and equipment to crack. Draining the water is the most effective way to avoid damage.
• Protects the Pool Structure – Your vinyl lining can dry out and crack over the winter. If you have a fiberglass or concrete pool, it prevents cracks caused by ice pressure.
• Keeps Water Clean – Winterizing your pool prevents algae growth, meaning you’ll spend less time cleaning it once pool season begins.
• Saves Time and Money – Winterizing your pool saves you from expensive repairs and extensive cleaning costs when summer returns. A quick and easy spring opening is a direct result of a thorough fall closing.

What Do I Need to Winterize My Pool?

Preparing all your winterization equipment before you get started will ensure a smooth process. Here’s the basic equipment you’ll need for closing your pool:

• Pool Water Test Kit
• Winterizing Chemicals
• Pool Cover
• Pool Brush and Skimmer Net
• Pool Vacuum
• Air Compressor or Shop Vacuum
• Winterizing Plugs
• Pool Antifreeze

What Are the Steps for Pool Winterization?

Now that you have all the winterizing items, you can close your pool like a pro. Follow these steps to ensure your pool is correctly winterized:

• Clean Your Pool Thoroughly – Use your skimmer to remove all surface-level debris like leaves and sticks. Next, use a brush to scrub dirt stuck to the walls and floor. Finally, use your pool vacuum to remove as much dirt from the bottom of the pool as possible.
• Test and Balance the Water – Use your test kit to check the water chemistry. Adjust the pH (7.2-7.6), alkalinity (80-120ppm), and calcium hardness (180-220 ppm) levels to fall within the recommended ranges. Once balanced, add a dose of pool shock and allow it to circulate through the pool for several hours.
• Add Winterization Chemicals – Add a winter algaecide and a stain and scale prevention product. These chemicals will work through the winter to prevent algae growth and mineral buildup on your pool’s surfaces. Allow the pump to run for a few hours to distribute these chemicals evenly.
• Lower the Water Level – Next, lower the water levels below your pool’s plumbing. To lower the water level, turn off the pump and set the valve to “waste” or “drain” setting.
• Drain and Store Equipment – Drain all water from your pump, filter, heater, and chlorinator. Store the equipment in a warm, dry area such as a basement or garage if possible.
• Clear the Plumbing Lines – Though you’ve lowered the water levels, water can still be trapped in the plumbing. Use a shop vacuum or air compressor to clear the lines and plug them up to keep them dry throughout the offseason.
• Cover the Pool – You’ll want to install your pool cover. A secure pool cover will prevent debris and dirt from entering your pool so that it can be easily opened.

Prepare Your Pool for the Winter Season

If you live in an area where the temperature drops below freezing, winterization is essential for protecting your pool. If you’re still unsure about pool winterization, then contact Deep Blue Pool and Spas. As your local pool services expert, our knowledgeable and experienced team of certified pool professionals provides complete pool closing and winterization services in Salt Lake City, UT. We can ensure your pool is winterized and protected throughout the off-season. Schedule your service today.

There are several ways to beautify your swimming pool area —some more involved than others. For example, a few well-placed plants can improve the visual appeal of your swimming pool. You can choose to do several small beautification projects gradually or to complete one grand project after your pool installation. Here are some suggestions to take into consideration. When you’re ready to turn your pool area into an oasis, be sure to hire a full-service swimming pool company near Salt Lake City to do the job for you. An experienced pool contractor can help you with the designing, planning, and implementing processes.

Adding a Water Feature

Water features of any kind can make a space relaxing and tranquil. The sound of moving water from a stream or a fountain is undeniably soothing. The sight of a cascading waterfall can be awe-inspiring. Whether it’s beside your pool or it’s a part of it, a water feature is sure to elevate your outdoor space.

Putting in a Hot Tub or Spa

If you’re planning a swimming pool installed on your property, consider putting in a complimentary hot tub or spa. Nothing quite beats the sensation of soaking in a hot tub after a nice swim in a cool pool. A well-designed pool and spa combo can be visually stunning.

Using Rocks and Boulders

If you want to have a more natural-looking pool area, you should use rocks and boulders. These accent pieces can be made of actual rock or manufactured material. Natural stones can really be attractive when placed around your pool, but they can be costly to purchase and install—especially larger boulders. Artificial stones are much lighter and can be made to look like natural stones. Larger structures, such as rock waterfalls, can be fabricated in whatever shapes you desire at reasonable costs.

Creating a Sanctuary with Plants

One of the best ways to beautify your pool area is to add landscaping. Plants are pivotal in creating an oasis-like space, and they work well with natural elements like rocks and boulders. Not only can plants make an area look lovely, but they can also be used to create privacy. Tall shrubs or fanning palms can block the view from a nosy neighbor or a passerby on the sidewalk.

During the winter months, it is important to contact a pool contractor and perform seasonal swimming pool maintenance. When outdoor temperatures drop below freezing, your skimmer could crack if you neglect to blow out the lines. Your pool contractor can remove water from the lines so that they are protected from bursting. If you schedule this service with a highly rated pool contractor in Salt Lake City, you will not need to lower your pool water. However, inground pools with tile borders should have their water lowered below the tile line to prevent damage. For a closer look at some winter maintenance tips for your swimming pool, be sure to watch this video from SwimUniversity.

How to Keep Critters Out of Your Pool

How to Keep Animals Out of Your Pool

Nothing ruins a relaxing pool day quite like discovering critters trying to make a home in your pool. Frogs, insects, mice, raccoons, and more can all hole up around your pool and stay for the season. Left unchecked, you could even end up with a dead animal in your pool! Thankfully, you can take some steps to keep critters away from your backyard paradise. Here are a few tips to discourage pests.

1. Start With Physical Barriers

Your first line of defense is setting up a few physical barriers. These are usually the most effective long-term solutions for keeping a critter-free pool. Start with the following:

• Pool Covers—A quality pool cover keeps animals from accessing the water and prevents excess debris. A mesh cover is good for keeping larger animals out while still allowing rainwater to pass through, but smaller creatures might still find their way inside.
• Fencing—Install a fence around your pool or backyard to keep large animals away from your pool entirely. This is especially useful if you have a raccoon problem. For smaller critters, you might need fencing with tighter mesh or additional ground-level barriers.

2. Install Pool Alarms and Motion Sensors

A physical barrier might be all you need to keep animals out of your pool. But if you’re still concerned, try installing pool alarms and motion sensors, too. Modern systems can detect even small critters, and motion-activated lights or sprinklers can deter animals without harming them.

3. Implement Some Natural Deterrents

Some plants act as natural deterrents, keeping frogs out of the pool (as well as other animals). Strong-scented herbs like lavender, rosemary, and mint discourage insects and small mammals. Marigolds repel many flying insects, while citrus plants deter cats and some rodents. In the same vein, avoid adding plants to your landscape that attract the critters you’d rather deter. For example, flowering plants can attract frogs, and fruit trees might catch the attention of larger animals.

4. Change Up Your Landscape Design

Your landscape could be making your property more attractive to all kinds of unwanted critters! If this might be the case for you, try creating buffer zones between natural areas and your pool. Remove brush piles, tall grass, and dense vegetation near the pool area. A decorative barrier can work well here—instead of putting grass right next to the open water, use raised planters or intricate tilework to separate the areas.

5. Try Pest Control Traps

If a specific pest has gotten out of hand, it might be time to lay down some traps around the pool area. Insects and rodents in particular can be deterred with traps, especially if they’re placed near food sources. If you take this approach, consider working with a pest control company. The experts will help ensure you aren’t contaminating any plants or pool water.

6. Keep Up With Pool Maintenance

Regular pool maintenance is one of the best ways to keep mice out of pools. A clean pool makes for an environment that is much less attractive to pests of all kinds. Here are just a few specifics to keep in mind:

• Balance Your Chemicals—The proper chemical levels make pool water less attractive to animals seeking a cool drink. Most animals prefer fresh water over chemically treated water, so consistent chlorination encourages them to seek alternatives.
• Skim and Clean Often—Every day or so, skim the water to remove insects and debris that might attract scavenger animals. Pay special attention to leaves and other organic matter, as these can decompose and bring in even more critters.
• Clean Pool Equipment—Pool pumps, filters, and heating equipment create warm, dark spaces that appeal to small animals seeking shelter. Talk to your local pool experts about regular cleaning and inspection to prevent animals from establishing nests.

Enjoy Your Pool This Summer, Critter-Free

Keeping a critter-free pool doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. With the right tools and strategies in mind, you can enjoy a clean pool without pests all summer long. If critters are an ongoing issue at your property and you need some help with maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact Deep Blue Pools and Spas. We specialize in all kinds of pool upkeep. Contact us today to learn more.

A swimming pool installation is a significant investment for any homeowner. To preserve the quality and condition of your new pool installation, you will need to perform routine pool maintenance services with the help of a pool contractor in Salt Lake City. There are several signs and symptoms that can indicate that your pool is in need of a swimming pool maintenance appointment. For example, you may notice that your water level has begun to drop more rapidly than usual. In addition, the water in your chlorine pool may start to cause eye or skin irritation after you take a tip. You may also notice dirt or debris building up on your pool lighting, liner, or tile. Finally, when your pool pump begins to make loud or unusual noises, you should be sure to set up swimming pool services right away. A pool contractor in your local area will be able to fully diagnose and troubleshoot any problem that may be affecting your pool.