A Simple Treasure
A recent overseas trip took Jim McCloskey to a place he’s wanted to see for more than 20 years – basically ever since he worked on a WaterShapes article by Douglas Roth more than two decades ago on the wonders of the Japanese garden known as Katsura Rikyu. ...
Lessons Learned: The Importance of Properly Hydrating New Concrete Pool Shells
When it comes to concrete curing, cutting corners today often leads to serious problems tomorrow. Observing proper curing practices is a hallmark of professional craftsmanship—and a commitment to delivering a quality product that homeowners can enjoy worry-free. As Scott Cohen explains, relying on homeowners to water their newly placed concrete can be a prescription for failure. ...
The Spirit of Avalon (Part II)
In the first installment of this two-part project Mario and Sherry Abaldo explained the scope and first stages of the work creating one of the most elaborate residential aquatic spaces of all time. Here they fill in many of the details that made this undertaking so remarkable. ...
Renolit Offers Solid Reinforced PVC Membranes
Renolit makes RENOLIT SOLID, a reinforced PVC membrane created to renovate and waterproof decks on both residential pools as well as in aquatic facilities. This 80-mil thick membrane upgrades decks to make them waterproof and slip-resistant for safety, the company says. A “solid” solution for common deck problems including cracks, chips, peeling paint and more. Provides long-term ease of maintenance. Learn more here.
Integrated Visions
The ability to adapt to different project parameters and conditions can require patience and a balance between conformity and standing your ground. The project pictured here, explains Scott Cummings and Benjamin Lasseter, is as a perfect example of integrating a pool and landscape design with a challenging site and discerning project team members. ...
Fine Points: Painting Pool Pipes
Kevin Cobabe takes great pride in creating equipment sets that not only look clean, but reflect an artisan touch in function and appearance. That’s why on all of his projects he finishes with a flare by painting the equipment pad plumbing, a step that protects the pipes and gives the work a professional look. ...
Remembering Andrew A. Pansini
Andrew A. Pansini was a quiet giant of the pool and spa industry, steering Jandy Industries through decades of sustained growth and innovation with quiet dignity and fierce determination. He leaves behind a legacy of entrepreneurial success, philanthropic service and years coaching Little League Baseball. ...
From Waste to Wonder
Every so often a project comes along that’s less about creating a backyard paradise and more about uncovering—and correcting—the sins of the past. That was certainly the case for George Frederick with a recent remodel in Winston-Salem, NC, where badly misguided original construction and a cosmetic rehab left a new homeowner with a failing pool.  ...
Magic Plastics Offers Corrosion-Resistant Check Valve
Magic Plastics is pleased to offer the CR2 Check Valve to protect against corrosion in high-value systems like heat exchangers. Built for durability, performance, and easy maintenance, the CR2 check valve is the no-compromise solution for reliable backflow prevention, the company says. With a Hastelloy C-276 spring, the CR2 check valve stands-up to harsh chemicals and corrosive water conditions that quickly wear down standard valves. Learn more here.
The Rise of Social Saunas: A New Era for an Ancient Tradition
Saunas have been an integral part of human culture for thousands of years, with origins tracing back to ancient Finland two millennia ago. As Dave Peterson explains, saunas are catching on throughout much of the modern world, a rise driven by well-documented health benefits combined with aging consumer demographics that have among other trends led to a surge in “social saunas.” ...