Concrete Contractors

Asphalt Paving

Asphalt is used to construct and maintain roads, parking lots, bike paths, and more. It is also highly versatile, affordable, and durable.

Asphalt Paving

Its dark color contrasts with road markings and reduces glare, making driving safer during inclement weather conditions. Additionally, its color allows it to absorb sunlight and heat – melting snow and ice faster than concrete. For professional help, contact Asphalt Paving Philadelphia now!

Asphalt pavements have different performance characteristics, depending on the volume and types of traffic they serve. For example, the stiffness of an asphalt mixture is critical in determining its ability to support a load. The stiffness of asphalt concrete can be determined by a number of tests. The most common is the Structural Number (SN) test, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) designation T 190/99.

Another important strength factor is the aggregate base, which distributes stress over a large area of the road. The thickness of this layer is dependent on the condition of the soft subgrade. For a typical design, the soil should be analyzed to determine its R-value, which is used in combination with environmental and loading criteria to determine a required structural number for the asphalt layer.

The chemistry of the asphalt binder also affects the resulting strength of the asphalt pavement. The quality of crude oil, its refining process and the resulting additives all affect the binder’s properties. A binder with high heat stability, low permeability and lower viscosity allows for the use of a much thinner pavement layer, while one with very high viscosity requires the use of a thicker layer.

Additives can improve the performance of the asphalt paving material by making it less brittle or increasing its ability to carry loads. For example, adding styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer or styrene-butadiene rubber polymers can increase the flexibility of an asphalt mixture. These additives can also help to reduce cracking and rutting.

An additional way to improve the strength of an asphalt paving material is to add fibers to it. These fibers are made from materials such as wood, polypropylene or steel and can be added to HMA to make it more resistant to damage such as rutting and cracking.

An additive that can help to improve the strength of an asphalt paving mixture is a stabilizer such as calcium phenate, which increases the stiffness of the mix and helps to keep it from cracking at low temperatures. In addition, an admixture that increases the viscosity of the asphalt binder can improve its ductility and durability in cold weather conditions.

Durability

The durability of asphalt paving depends on many factors. Careful selection of mineral aggregates is critical, in terms of their gradation, angularity, toughness and soundness. These qualities are essential for resisting permanent deformation failures. Careful construction and proper compaction are also crucial. These practices must be employed to ensure the asphalt can withstand traffic loads and weather extremes.

The chemistry of the asphalt binder is also important for its long-term durability. It can be affected by oxidation, volatility and polymerization. These phenomena are influenced by temperature and are a function of the amount of time that the mixture is exposed to air. The presence of moisture may also cause the asphalt to deteriorate.

Governmental transportation agencies, pavement designers and contractors acted on the growing concern that simply combining ingredients in a prescribed manner was not producing asphalt pavements that met expectations for long-term performance. They developed balanced mix design (BMD) as a more realistic approach to designing asphalt mixtures.

BMD takes the guesswork out of achieving desirable performance by using actual laboratory test data to predict the material’s behavior in specific application conditions. It is a more effective method than traditional prescriptive mix designs that use past experience and specifications to determine the amount of each ingredient that should be used.

In the laboratory, BMD results show that SMA-13, Superpave-20 and ATB-25 are comparable in their ability to resist fatigue distress. However, there are differences in their dynamic stability, resistance to rutting and low-temperature cracking.

The resistance of asphalt to rutting depends on a number of factors, including the type of granular material and the temperature at which it is placed. In general, colder asphalt mixes are more susceptible to rutting than warm-mixes.

Rutting resistance can be improved by reducing the percentage of granular material in the mixture. Another way to improve rutting resistance is by paving the surface layer with an appropriate density. This is especially important for heavy-duty roads.

Proper longitudinal joints can significantly extend the life of an asphalt surface. These joints should be constructed in accordance with the standards specified in Standard Construction Drawing BP-3.1.

Safety

Asphalt is a very flammable material. It should be kept away from flames, sparks and cigarettes. It should be stored in a well-ventilated area, or in a covered container. A fire extinguisher rated B or AB should be on hand. Asphalt fumes are poisonous and can cause lung and breathing problems. They can also irritate the eyes and skin. Long-term exposure can cause bronchitis. Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) can reduce exposure. Wearing thermally insulated gloves prevents burns and stops solvents from soaking into the skin. Long sleeved shirts and pants protect the body from chemical contact, and safety shoes or boots protect the feet. Wearing a face mask is recommended to prevent breathing in fumes. Enclosing kettles and mixing operations helps to prevent overexposure to fumes.

Asphalt mixes must be stiff enough to resist distortion and strong enough to withstand the impact of heavy vehicles. They must also be able to flex slightly in order to handle the pressures of tires pushing down on the road. Insufficient stiffness and flexibility in an asphalt mix can lead to rutting, fatigue cracking, corrugation or crocodile cracking. The stiffness and resistance to distortion of the asphalt mixture can be achieved by proper aggregate gradation and compaction, as well as appropriate asphalt binder content and temperature.

The flexural strength of the asphalt mixture can be accomplished by adding finer aggregate and/or increasing the binder content or temperature. A low viscosity asphalt binder is preferred to a high viscosity. A tack coat can be added to improve adhesion and reduce surface cracking. In addition to standard test methods such as volumetric properties, advanced viscosity, rheology and aging tests can be used for predictive modeling of asphalt paving mixes.

During the paving operation it is important to watch for signs of trouble such as excessive vibrations, pulsations or slippage of the paver or materials. It is also important to monitor the temperature of the asphalt mix, particularly during cool weather paving. When a mix is too cold to be placed or compacted properly, it should be removed and replaced with hotter asphalt. This can be avoided by maintaining constant monitoring and recording of the asphalt mix temperature throughout the paving operation.

Maintenance

Asphalt is a very durable material, but like any pavement it does require regular maintenance to ensure that the surface lasts as long as possible. Commercial asphalt maintenance requirements are important to the safety and functionality of parking lots, sidewalks and other walkways. If not addressed, cracks and potholes can develop into serious problems that can result in costly repairs or even the need for removal and replacement of the entire asphalt surface.

Asphalt paving requires a 6-step process including demolition and removal of existing surfaces, grading and sloping to allow water to drain from the pavement, adding the binder layer to give the surface strength and durability, installing the new surface, adding the final rolling to smooth out the asphalt. The surface is then sealed to protect the asphalt from weathering and contamination.

Heavy loads, frequent exposure to the sun’s UV rays, poor drainage, and temperature extremes can speed up asphalt deterioration. Regular maintenance can prevent these problems, but once damage starts it is crucial to repair cracks as quickly as possible before they expand into major problems such as potholes.

It is also important to keep your asphalt clean by cleaning oil and other chemicals from the surface of the pavement and removing any dirt buildups. This will help extend the life of your asphalt and also make it look nicer for visitors to your business or property.

Lightly traveled roads and off-street pavements are constantly attacked by various destructive elements, eventually developing minor surface cracks that gradually widen and deepen. When the cracks get too severe, they weaken the base course and reduce load-bearing capacity. This leads to rutting and serious alligatoring that may require the pavement to be removed and replaced.

Pool Maintenance

Premier Pools and Spas Opens Locations in Davenport, Iowa, and Albuquerque, New Mexico

The world’s largest pool builders expand into Davenport, Iowa, and Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Premier Pools and Spas, the world’s largest swimming pool builder, and winner of several awards, including the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) International Award of Excellence for Design, is excited to announce two new build franchises: Davenport, Iowa, and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Owned respectively by Garret Lass & Jesse Pennock, and Andrew & Carly Reeves.

Founder of PPAS, Paul Porter, and the President of Premier Franchise Management, Aaron Gurley, are selective about who becomes a Premier franchise owner. Because at Premier, gaining quality people comes before producing a quantity of exceptional work.

“I have a deeply rooted sense of responsibility that stems from a desire to protect the industry that has made my dreams come true.”

~ Paul Porter, founder

Premier continues building its reputation for innovative design and excellent customer service as it expands into these new territories. Though the locations are new, they’re backed by a nationwide company. Each Premier franchise is an extension of over 30 years of experience, so Albuquerque and Davenport residents can rest assured that they’re choosing the best.

Premier began offering franchise opportunities in 2014 to like-minded entrepreneurs with high standards for quality and value. If you’re interested in owning a Premier franchise, please visit premierpoolsfranchise.com or call (844) 366-2102.

Davenport, Iowa | Owners: Garrett Lass & Jesse Pennock


Garrett Lass previously had a career in logistics management for the fiberglass division of Latham Pool Products. He also started a pilot car company that specializes in the transportation of fiberglass pools. Jesse Pennock has owned and operated a landscaping and lawn care business for ten years. Garrett and Jesse make the perfect team to deliver the Premier experience to their community with their combined backgrounds.

During Garrett’s time with Latham, he witnessed the rapid growth of Premier in the Midwest, which piqued his curiosity. “After our trip to California to learn about the PPAS opportunity, I was so impressed by the family aspect that Paul and Brian showed us. It was a parallel to how I’ve run my business, and I valued that mindset,” said Jesse. They both look forward to working with their customers to bring their backyard dreams to life and create memories for their families for years to come.

Garrett and Jesse attended Dewitt community schools, and Garrett graduated in 2015 from the University of Dubuque. Garrett is recently engaged to his fiancé Brittany and looks forward to marrying her next year. Jesse resides in DeWitt with his fiancee, Karolyn.

lbuquerque, New Mexico | Owners: Andrew & Carly Reeves

Andrew has supported his wife Carly Reeves in running an online marketing business for six years and learned what it takes to succeed.
Premier Pools and Spas Opens Locations in Davenport, Iowa, and Albuquerque, New Mexico 4
Andrew was inspired by Carly’s willingness to push herself to the next level, which led him to seek an opportunity with Premier.

They’re excited about becoming the go-to pool builders in Albuquerque: “We’re hoping to be the leader in fiberglass in the market. I want to change the perception of fiberglass pools in New Mexico and show clients that not only can they be the more affordable option, but the better option all around.”

Carly and Andrew reside in Corrales, New Mexico, where they live with their three kids—Beckam, Olive, and Everett. Music is a driving force in Carly’s life, as she was in a band in her twenties that went on a few tours and even opened up for some prominent artists. Andrew is an outdoor junkie who loves to fly fish and has been all over the world doing it, from Iceland to Peru. Family is the driving force of why they are so successful and will continue being successful.

bout Premier Pools & Spas

Founded in 1988, Premier Pools & Spas (PPAS) has a reputation for first-class results within the customer’s budget. PPAS builds and services swimming pools and spas for homeowners across the country.

Pool Maintenance

Top 5 Benefits of Owning a Pool

Top Five Benefits of Owning a Pool

Installing a pool in your backyard is a major decision. Here at Premier, we believe in the customer’s peace of mind, and that’s why we’ll be with you at every step of the process if you decide to get a pool.

Below, we’ll go over the benefits of owning a pool, so you have all the information you need to figure out if a pool is suitable for your family.

#1 – Save Money

You read that right.

While installing a pool costs money upfront, owning a pool can save you money in the long run. And that’s probably one of the most surprising benefits of owning a pool.

Your pool will raise your staycation game considerably. A vacation involves travel expenses and can also be mentally taxing. How many times have you returned from a trip only to feel like you need a vacation from your vacation?

Plus, with a pool, your backyard becomes the prime destination for family gatherings, barbecues, and parties of all kinds. Not only are you saving your own money, your saving other people money on going out. 

Make it a potluck or a BYOB affair, and they’ll bring food and beverages to pay tribute to your backyard oasis.

They’ll be happy to do it, and you’re spending next to nothing to have a good time.

Other Ways to Save Money

If you know you’re going to spend the day in the backyard, you can turn down your A/C to save money and help save the environment.Using solar panels to heat your pool isn’t just energy-efficient but also extends your swim season into the colder months.

Yeah, but What About Maintenance Costs?

Fiberglass pools are the lowest maintenance pools–no algae buildup.A lot of pool maintenance is automated.Get a pool cover for the off-season.

Find out how affordable a pool can be by requesting a free quote at the bottom of this page!

#2 – Mental Health

With the ever-increasing pace of modern life, it’s more important than ever to take care of your mental health.

According to a survey from leading research specialists Ipsos MORI, 74% of people agreed that time in the pool relieves stress. 70% said that they felt mentally recharged after using a pool. And 68% felt good themselves just from being in the water.

In addition to this, a recent study found that just looking at a video of the ocean can elevate your mood. So that tropical screensaver on your work computer is doing you some good, but imagine having your own body of water right in your backyard!

You probably don’t need a scientific study to convince you that floating in a pool is one of the most calming things you can do. Movie characters floating in pools have become visual code for rich and successful.

You don’t have to be rich to own a pool, though. Click here to see how easy it is to get your pool fully financed.


#3 – Physical Fitness

According to the CDC, “Just two and a half hours per week of aerobic physical activity, such as swimming, bicycling, or running, can decrease the risk of chronic illnesses.”

Out of those three activities mentioned, swimming has the lowest impact on your bones and joints.

Not to mention your physical fitness is linked directly to your mental fitness. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise boosts your cognition, memory, and mood regulation while reducing stress and anxiety.

But you don’t have to be an athlete to get those benefits. 

Just moving about your pool casually for a sustained period will work your body out more than your average household activity. If you’ve ever spent a day in the pool, then you know you don’t need to swim laps to feel spent at the end of the day. And that spent feeling combined with getting Vitamin D from the sun will lead to much better sleep.

And better sleep leads to better mental and physical fitness in the long term. It’s a compound effect!

quatic Therapy

One of the major health benefits of a pool is the ability to do aquatic therapy. Swimming pools are a low-impact cardio option to keep your body fit without putting too much stress on your joints and tendons. Pools have also improved the quality of life for people who have fibromyalgia and cerebral palsy. 

#4 – A Great Excuse to Get Outside More

“Specifically now, in the age of coronavirus, many buyers are seeking a pool. They like the idea that their home is a one-stop-shop for all their summer entertainment activities since they are concerned about leaving the house.” 

~ Melissa Zavala, Broadpoint Properties broker in San Diego

Unless you’re a millionaire with a huge mansion, your pool will most likely go in your backyard. So this may seem like one of the most obvious benefits of owning a pool. But how often do we ignore our instinct to go outside and spend most of our time indoors?

Coming home from a long day at work and jumping in your pool, even for just 15-20 minutes, can make a huge impact on your happiness after staring at a computer screen all day.

Also, the great outdoors are proven to ease burnout, and we do more than put pools in the ground—we can landscape your backyard into a resort-style oasis.

We’ve talked about the therapeutic benefits of swimming pools. But really, each of the top five benefits of owning a pool is therapeutic. Sometimes it’s just nice to get outside.

Check out this WebMD article to find out how many benefits there are to spending time outside. It’s a great way to keep the kids healthy and happy.

Benefits of Owning a Pool

#5 – Increase the Value of Your Home

There’s some debate on this, but in just a few short paragraphs, you’ll see that installing a pool is definitely a home improvement that adds value.

Some experts say that compared to the cost of installation and maintenance, the average 7% increase in a home’s value with a pool isn’t enough to claim that a pool adds value.

Here’s the thing. Most things you invest in lose value. Your car, your boat, the exercise equipment you’re trying to sell on Craigslist.

Nobody looks at owning a pool as strictly a means to add value to their property. You’re reading this because you want a pool for the first four benefits. The fact that a pool will increase your home’s value and overall attractiveness down the road is just a bonus.

According to this article, an analysis of 19 warm-weather markets found that a pool can add between $11,591 and $95,393 in value to your home.

The real investment is the enjoyment you and your loved ones will receive over the lifetime of the pool. And if you’re in your forever home, a Fiberglass or Gunite pool can last you a lifetime. The fact that it adds to the value of your home is a pleasant bonus if you think you might move in the future.

You also have to look beyond just the pool. Premier can upgrade your entire backyard’s value through landscaping and hardscaping. Check out our brochure to see all of the jaw-dropping resorts we’ve built in our customer’s backyards.

Or imagine this out your window–

A beautiful backyard oasis

Hopefully, you’ve learned some benefits of owning a pool you didn’t already know.

And remember, no matter your budget, we can find ways to make the area around your pool look just as inviting.

Learn more about financing through Premier Finance, or use the form below to get a free quote!

if(!gform){document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,function(){gform.scriptsLoaded=!0}),window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,function(){gform.domLoaded=!0});var gform={domLoaded:!1,scriptsLoaded:!1,initializeOnLoaded:function(o){gform.domLoaded&&gform.scriptsLoaded?o():!gform.domLoaded&&gform.scriptsLoaded?window.addEventListener(“DOMContentLoaded”,o):document.addEventListener(“gform_main_scripts_loaded”,o)},hooks:{action:{},filter:{}},addAction:function(o,n,r,t){gform.addHook(“action”,o,n,r,t)},addFilter:function(o,n,r,t){gform.addHook(“filter”,o,n,r,t)},doAction:function(o){gform.doHook(“action”,o,arguments)},applyFilters:function(o){return gform.doHook(“filter”,o,arguments)},removeAction:function(o,n){gform.removeHook(“action”,o,n)},removeFilter:function(o,n,r){gform.removeHook(“filter”,o,n,r)},addHook:function(o,n,r,t,i){null==gform.hooks[o][n]&&(gform.hooks[o][n]=[]);var e=gform.hooks[o][n];null==i&&(i=n+”_”+e.length),null==t&&(t=10),gform.hooks[o][n].push({tag:i,callable:r,priority:t})},doHook:function(o,n,r){if(r=Array.prototype.slice.call(r,1),null!=gform.hooks[o][n]){var t,i=gform.hooks[o][n];i.sort(function(o,n){return o.priority-n.priority});for(var e=0;e

Request a FREE quote

Want to talk to us about your new pool, remodel, or other projects? Please fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.Name:FirstLastEmail:Phone:City:State:- Select a State -AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingZip Code:Interested In…Interested In…Gunite PoolFiberglass PoolPool RemodelPool ServiceOther (Leave Message Below)Message:HiddenSales TypeHiddenDateYYYY dash MM dash DDCommentsThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

 

Did you miss our previous article…
https://undirworlddiving.com/?p=310

Pool Care

An Update on Supply Chain Issues

n Update on Supply Chain Issues

From 2020 to 2021, our world experienced unprecedented events that contributed to supply shortages in our industry and beyond. Factories had to shut down due to the Covid pandemic, which produced a real shortage of the materials needed to build your pools.

The Texas Freeze damaged hundreds of thousands of pool equipment sets in our customer’s backyards. Because of that, we needed hundreds of thousands of replacement sets, but most manufacturers of the equipment needed are located in Texas and were also damaged during the Freeze. That meant petroleum-based products like pipes and valves weren’t being manufactured.

Lastly, due to various factors related to the pandemic, we’ve been experiencing a labor shortage like never before. Not only are there not enough materials to go around, but the available materials that have been shipped into ports around the nation, there wasn’t enough labor to unload them.

Together, these events created an extremely challenging environment that we’ve been learning to navigate on the fly.

So what does this mean for you? 

Your pool is probably taking longer than normal to build. We know that the faster we can install your pool, the happier you will be at Premier Pools. And we want nothing more than to keep you happy. We didn’t become the number one pool builder in the nation by shirking customer service. 

Unfortunately, due to the supply chain issues and the lack of materials, we are simply unable to operate at the speed we’re used to at this time. 

As the world’s largest installer of swimming pools, we have access to resources, distribution, suppliers, and manufacturers no one else has. We are trying our best to use those resources and connections to keep your pool coming along.

We ask for your patience as we navigate through these uncharted waters. Our lines of communication are open–if you’re frustrated, let us know. We expect a hundred percent transparency from our franchises in keeping you informed of all new developments as we move forward with the construction process.

Please know that we are working around the clock as hard as possible to keep projects moving forward and are as committed today as we were in 1988. We hope to work through this process together in the coming months and get your pool finished so your family can enjoy it for years to come.

We thank you for your patience, and we will continue to serve you however we can during this time. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Premier Pools and Spas.

 

Pool Care

The Durability of 3 Popular Inground Pool Types

The Durability of 3 Popular Inground Pool Types

 

Hey Pool Fans, today we’re comparing the durability of the three most popular inground pool types.

Table of Contents:

Vinyl Inground PoolsFiberglass Inground PoolsGunite Inground Pools

Below, we’ll compare each of them and help you figure out which inground pool is best for your backyard. Let’s get our feet wet!


Or our entire bodies!

Vinyl Inground Pools

Not just for Grandpa’s record collection anymore, vinyl is a slick-looking, affordable option. It’s also the quickest to install—about four weeks from purchase to pool party. 

Vinyl’s texture is very smooth and non-porous, so you don’t have to worry about algae build-up or similar maintenance issues. However, the vinyl liners can puncture if you’re too rough with them. 

We install the vinyl liner over a metal or concrete perimeter wall, and we can customize the shape to an extent. While most vinyl pools are rectangular, it is possible to customize their shape, size, and depth.

While a vinyl pool is significantly cheaper than fiberglass or concrete, they deteriorate quickly and are easier to damage. For instance, a severe storm could toss a table umbrella into your pool and pop goes the liner. 

Barring any projectile-inducing storms, you’ll need to replace your vinyl liner every five to nine years, which will run you about $4K or more.

Durability Factor 5/10

A well-maintained liner needs to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.Easy to keep clean, but pool chemicals do wear out liner faster.Longevity lessens with increased roughness.

Fiberglass Inground Pools

Fiberglass pools require the least maintenance. Similar to vinyl, fiberglass is non-porous so you won’t have to deal with algae blooms. Plus, you’ll never need to resurface them or replace the liner. 

That’s because fiberglass pools are single-piece shells made in a factory. However, many shell designs come with built-in features like raised spas and tanning shelves. They’re delivered to your house at the time of installation, so installation time depends on the factory.

Fiberglass pools are constructed from glass threads woven into fabric then hardened with a special polyester resin and smoothed out with weather-resistant gel. Boats and planes are also made from this, so you know fiberglass can party.

A well-maintained fiberglass pool will last you over 25 years. In fact, some fiberglass pools installed in the 60s and 70s are still holding up today.

Durability Factor 8/10

A properly kept fiberglass shell lasts for 20 to 30 yearsEasy to keep cleanPrefabricated—makes it hard to add features down the road

Gunite Pools

If you’ve ever swum in a pool, chances are it was concrete—what we call gunite or shotcrete. Gunite is a type of concrete we spray through an industrial-strength mega-hose with a high-pressure nozzle.

Many yards out there can’t fit a pre-made fiberglass pool, or they aren’t suitable for a vinyl pool. If you’re familiar with our work on the hit DIY show Pool Kings and you want your own masterpiece in your backyard, then we’re talking gunite, pal.

You want an infinity waterfall? Done. How about a tanning shelf with a built-in spa above your rock waterfall? No problem. What’s that? You want a water slide, a lazy river, and your own private island in the middle of your pool? BAM!

The Durability of the 3 Most Popular Inground Pool Types

Concrete will get you all of that. Plus, it will last you the rest of your life and beyond. When humans perish, gunite pools shall inherit the earth.

There are a couple of downsides compared to fiberglass. A plaster finish will last 7 to 15 years until it needs to be refinished, depending on how well you maintain it. However, a pebble-based finish can last a lifetime. Both interior finishes can be rough on your feet if you spend a lot of time in your pool.

With maintenance, concrete is also prone to algae buildup. However, Premier’s state-of-the-art equipment combined with regular service will keep your pool pristine all year long.

Durability Factor 10/10

Lasts foreverEasy to add on features in the future

The Wrap-Up

Vinyl is the cheapest at first, but eventually, the costs will surpass fiberglass. Fiberglass is slightly more expensive but lasts for decades. For max customization and longest lifespan, go with gunite.

Either of these pools will look beautiful, especially when you have the best pool builder in the nation doing the install. Premier will work with you to ensure you have the perfect pool for your backyard and your budget.

Seeing is believing—check out our brochure and contact us for a free estimate.

can dogs swim in pools
Without this pool, this dog would get injured.

 

Pool Services

The Pool Finishing Process: What You Need To Know

Filling Up Your Pool

Here at Premier Pools, we want to see you enjoying your pool as soon as possible. 

But there are a few steps you’ll need to complete during the pool finishing process so that your pool finish looks great for many summers to come. We’ll cover those steps below.

Before Filling Up Your Pool

Before fill-up begins, contact your water district and let them know you’re filling up a pool. Otherwise, they might think you have a leak and shut off your water.

Your Pool Finish

The next thing that affects how long the fill-up will take is your pool finish.

A plaster finish will complete in one day. We’ll spray the plaster on, trowel it into a smooth surface, and begin filling up your pool that day.

With an aggregate pool finish like pebble or glass beads, we’ll apply it in a day and let it sit overnight. Then the next day, we’ll acid-wash it, pressure-wash it, and then start filling it up.

What do I need to do during the pool filling process?

Once started, do not stop the water until your pool is full. If you shut off the water, you’ll get a ring around your pool where it stopped. You can slow it to a trickle, but make sure it doesn’t stop until it gets to the middle of the waterline tileFill from the deep end first. If you start from the shallow end, you’ll create streaking on the bottom of your pool, from the shallow end to the deep end. Once your pool is filled, move your hose into your raised spa or any raised features you may have.Let Premier know if you plan on filling your pool with well water. We’ll need to get a water sample to see the calcium and hardness content and know precisely the water quality we’re putting into the swimming pool. We also want to make sure we don’t dry up your well—pulling 20,000 gallons will quickly dry it up.

How long will it take to fill up my pool?

Depending on a couple of factors, it could take anywhere from four hours to four days.

Multiple garden hoses flowing at once will speed things up, but mostly, it depends on how much water you have coming into your house. Lower water pressure means a slower fill. With good water pressure, expect it to take up to a day and a half.

Remember!

Stopping water flow during fill-up will create a ring around your pool, so make sure you call your water district. That way, you’ll avoid interruptions and be working on your tan in no time.

Don’t Forget To Brush Your Pool

Pool brushing is a crucial part of the pool finishing process and will make sure your pool stays looking fresh.

As the plaster cures underwater over the first 30 days, some of the material will make its way to the surface. Brushing your pool finish will keep it from setting into your pool finish.

To do this, you’ll brush the entire surface of your pool several times a day. It would be best if you did this for up to the first week. We’ll give you a brush and pole and instruct you on how to get it done properly and regularly. 

Your Premier Service Technician will tell you what brushing schedule is best for your particular finish.

The Chemical Process

The last part of the pool finishing process is making sure the chemicals in your pool water are balanced. But don’t worry, a Service Technician will take care of your pool water’s total alkalinity, calcium hardness, pH balance, and more.

With a plaster finish, it can take 30 days before you can introduce heat and start balancing your pool water so that it’s safe to start swimming.

With a pebble finish, you can start swimming within a week, but don’t introduce heat for about two weeks.

Your Service Technician will let you know when it’s safe to do your first cannonball.


We recommend one cannonballer at a time.

One Last Important Step

Contact your gas company and tell them you just installed a pool gas heater or other fire features in your backyard. Your Premier pools construction supervisor can tell you how many BTUs your backyard is pulling so you can give that info to the gas company. They’ll make sure you have the correct gas meter to keep your features working correctly.

Pool Care

May Pool of the Month

Premier Pools & Spas Selects May’s Pool of the Month

Rio Grande Valley, TX Pool Builders Construct Timeless Piece

PPAS has selected Premier’s Rio Grande Valley franchise as May 2021’s Pool of the Month winner. This project was submitted by Anna Mandea, the salesperson and co-owner of this Texas office.

Anna and her husband, Alex, have been Premier franchise owners since 2020. They are excited about this recognition and are overjoyed by the success of their entire team. 

This month’s pool, built in McAllen, Texas, is a gunite/shotcrete classic with clean and stunning custom features that provide a complete backyard transformation. The 15’ x 37’ pool includes a calming waterfall and a sunken patio with a wood-burning fire pit, making it a homeowner’s personal retreat. 

The pool has a Laguna interior finish and features beautiful designs such as blue tile and ivory travertine. 

Anna said this project was challenging, as problems and last-minute changes emerged during the process. The pool had to be shifted after a request from the homeowner, which caused the excavation line to cut close to the house.

After consulting with code officials, all parties were able to agree that the pool did not compromise its surrounding area. The Rio Grande Valley team was able to make the unforeseen circumstances of the project work and did so with the customer in mind. 

Their team worked endlessly to provide the homeowners with their dream backyard and were pleased with how well the project turned out. Their favorite part was seeing how much their work transformed the yard and the impact it made. 

Anna is proud of the accomplishments her team made, especially with being so new to the swimming pool industry. She valued their role in this life-changing opportunity not only for the homeowners but for themselves.

Pool of the Month winners receive the opportunity to have a donation made out to their favorite charity on behalf of PPAS. Anna and Alex picked Engineers Without Borders International (EWB-I) as their charity as it is very dear to their hearts. Before becoming a franchisee, Alex had always wanted to be an engineer in Romania, building bridges and roads. EWB-I sends engineers to areas where a bridge can make all the difference in a child’s life. According to Anna, the addition of a bridge could make attending school a possibility for a village. With the work of this charity, communities can get the help they need to survive and improve their lives, fulfilling the Mandea family’s wish to help make a difference.

Premier franchisees are encouraged to submit their backyard projects for a chance to be featured. 

Pool Care

April Pool of the Month

Premier Pools & Spas Names April’s Pool of the Month

Swimming Pool Builders in Souderton, PA Triumph

 

Premier Pools & Spas (PPAS), the nation’s largest pool builder, strives to acknowledge and praise the work of its franchises. To show our appreciation, we select a “Pool of the Month” recipient among our franchisees. We are proud of our franchises and are always finding ways to highlight the work and achievements they make with our company.

Premier Souderton, our Pennsylvania location, has been chosen as April 2021’s Pool of the Month. This project was submitted by Jeff McGalliard, the builder behind this stunning pool.

Jeff and his family have been a part of the Premier family since 2012. The McGalliards have been in the pool business for over 50 years and are Pool of the Month veterans.

This gunite/shotcrete swimming pool, built in Harleysville, Pennsylvania, has eye-catching water features such as sheer descents, a raised beam, and a lion fountain that complement and add to the beauty of this backyard paradise.

April Pool of the Month 7

The design and structure of the pool provide a luxurious and lush finish to this Northeastern backyard. With a size of 20’ x 40’, this pool provides enough space for both relaxation and play.

Jeff encountered challenges along the way, listing grade changes as the greatest. He and his team had to work with a 15 feet elevation change that was from the top of the project to the pool. A part of this challenge included having to incorporate roughly 15 steps from the top of the driveway to the pool.

Despite the challenges, he was able to carry out the requests of the homeowners and give them the backyard of their dreams.

Jeff’s favorite part of the job was seeing the reaction of the homeowners, who were left satisfied and pleased with his work.

April Pool of the Month 8

As a bonus, each Pool of the Month winner receives the opportunity to have a donation made out to their favorite charity on behalf of PPAS. The McGalliards picked the American Heart Association (AHA) as their charity as it hits close to home. AHA was chosen as a tribute to Jeff’s late father, making it a charity that holds a special place in their hearts.

Want to be featured next? Submit your best backyard project for a chance to be named Premier’s Pool of the Month!

Pool Services

How to Properly Water Your Gunite Pool’s Shell

Gunite Swimming Pools—How to Properly Water Your Gunite Pool’s Shell

Cleaning, maintenance, and inspections—the responsibilities that come with owning a pool.

Each type of pool requires its own routine of upkeep, and the routine for gunite pools is one every owner of a concrete pool should be aware of.

Watering Gunite

An essential step in caring for your concrete pool is to saturate the bond beam.

What does this mean?

To avoid your shell from drying out too quickly, you must wet the concrete frequently. It is important you focus not only on the bond beam but also on the steps and cabos. These are the thickest parts so they will need some TLC.

Pro Tip: Remove the nozzle or sprayer of your hose to soak and saturate the beam as much as possible. It will not only make your job easier, but more effective too!

When spraying, be mindful of your surroundings and watch where you step. It is recommended you spray from inside the pool. Failure to do so could result in serious injury.

For the remainder of the pool, we suggest first spraying from the shallow end of your pool and working your way to the deep end. The water will naturally cover more ground as it flows. Watering the raised walls will also prove to be beneficial.

The color of the concrete will be an indicator of what is left to cover so be on the lookout. This is helpful for saturating all areas of your pool’s shell.

Sorry, your browser doesn’t support embedded videos.

Maintaining Your Gunite Shell

While watering is an important component, it is how much and for how long that counts the most. Not enough watering throughout the day will leave a negative impact on your pool’s shell.

It is recommended you water 3-5 times daily for about a week. Your concrete pool will thank you!

Gunite Pool Will Look the Best When Cared for

A normal part of the process is the development of holes and other imperfections. They are shrinkage cracks on the top layer of the gunite so don’t worry if you start to notice them.

Please note that the slower your concrete cures, the stronger it will be.

If you see a formation of a puddle in your pool or spa, don’t fret as it is perfectly normal. It indicates you have been watering and that the pool is holding water.

By properly caring for and being mindful of your pool’s maintenance needs, your pool is set to be in tip-top shape!

Pool Maintenance

Testing the pH Balance of Your Pool

What You Need to Know About the pH Balance of Your Pool

The ideal pH level that’s safe for swimming is between 7.2 and 7.8, the same range as our body’s pH level.

When your pool’s pH level goes over 7.8, it’s considered alkaline. High pH in the pool is dangerous for swimmers. Chlorine and other sanitizing chemicals won’t be able to do their job, and bacteria will flourish in your pool. The water will also become cloudy, and you’ll see scaling on the sides of your pool.

If your pool’s pH balance dips too low (under 7.0), then your pool will become acidic. This can cause skin irritation and burning eyes if you open them underwater. Water with low pH will also render chlorine and other chemicals ineffective. If you have a vinyl pool, the liner may wrinkle, and any metal in your pool can corrode.

When your water is too alkaline, it can also cause calcium hardness levels to increase, and you may have to get your pool acid-etched more often to keep it looking nice and clean.

What Causes the High pH in Swimming Pools?

Nature

The pH of your pool is going to change naturally, and this is to be expected. When your pool is just sitting there, carbon dioxide in the air will dissolve in the water, forming carbonic acid, lowering the pH. Swimming and splashing will break up that carbon dioxide and cause the pH to rise.

Algae also raise the pH because it consumes carbon dioxide. Left unchecked, algae can push the pH of your pool well over a safe level. But with ongoing maintenance from Premier Pool Service, your pool will never get to this point.

Pool Chemicals

Every type of pool chemical you use on your pool will affect the pH balance. Granulated or liquid chlorine will raise the pH, neutral sanitizers like Bromine have the slightest effect, and acidic cleaners like chlorine gas will lower the pH.

These chemicals are used in a few parts per million, and the change won’t be that drastic. It’s just something to keep in mind when trying to achieve balanced pool water yourself.

Chasing the perfect pH level can become frustrating if you’re not aware of the specific effect of the sanitizer you use.

Other Factors

A sudden temperature rise can cause the pH level to go up. Whether you warm it up with a pool heater or you experience a heatwave, this could cause it to spike.

One more thing to consider: if your pool has a new pebble or plaster finish, this will raise the pH. You don’t have to worry about this with fiberglass or vinyl.

Staying On Top of The pH Balance of Your Pool

For the chlorine to be most effective in your pool, you’ll want to keep your pool water balanced in the optimum range mentioned above. Here’s how you can stay on top of this.

When you’re in the middle of swim season and using your pool daily, consider testing daily.It’s recommended you test the chlorine twice a week, so if you’re already doing this, add pH testing into the mix.Debris and rainfall after inclement weather can also change the pH, so test after a storm.

The more acidic or alkaline your pool gets, the longer it will take to get the pH right. So heading off these problems will make sure your pool is soft, clean, and safe for you and your family to enjoy all year long.

test the pH balance of your pool

Testing the pH Balance of Your Pool

Testing your pool’s pH and alkalinity level is relatively straightforward using strips and test kits.

Whether you go with dissolvable tablets or test strips, follow the instructions from the water testing kit manufacturer. Also, keep these tips in mind:

You’re looking for an optimal pH range between 7.2 and 7.6.Your total alkalinity should be between 80 ppm and 150 ppm.If your pH level is too high, use a mild acid to bring the alkalinity down.

Moving water will alter your sample, so take it from as closest to the middle of your pool as you can.

Things that can cause an inaccurate reading from your test:

Residual chlorine levelsBromineTaking a sample from near your jets

Leave it to the Pros

Having regular pool service is the best way to keep your pool ready whenever you need it. If any of this sounds too tedious, or you don’t want the hassle, we will gladly test for high pH levels and every other aspect of pool maintenance.

Contact Premier Pool Service today if you want to leave the pH balance of your pool up to professional, keeping your pool soft, safe, and clean all year long.