2010 Editions (May-December) | Newsletters

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December 15, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

SPECIAL INTERVIEW

Santa Claus Talks About the Ho-Ho-Ho of Watershapes

Imagine our surprise at WaterShapes when we received an e-mail from ol’ St. Nick himself expressing his love for watershapes of every kind! And imagine our delight when he agreed to speak with us from the North Pole! As far as we know, this is the only interview Santa Claus has ever given to the media on this subject. Enjoy! [more]

FEATURE ARTICLE

Santa's 10 Blessings for Watershapers Everywhere

When we had the pleasure and honor of interviewing Santa, he asked that we communicate his Christmas blessings to our readers — and, indeed, to all watershapers everywhere. (“Please ask your Jewish readers and friends to consider this a belated Chanukah present,” he added.) Are you ready to receive your gift of 10 blessings from Santa? [more]

THE BEST OF RIPPLES 2010:
FIVE STORIES THAT TICKLED
OUR FANCY THE MOST! [more]

SPECIAL MESSAGE

New Year's Greetings From Eric Herman

In a heartfelt New Year’s message, WaterShapes editor Eric Herman observes that ‘if grit and determination in the face of adversity are the measure of our industry’s character, then what I’ve seen these past difficult years is nothing less than inspiring.’ Don’t miss Eric’s words to you and all our readers — they’re pretty inspiring as well. [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

Business Resolutions for 2011?

In a recent edition of WaterShapes EXTRA!, we featured Vance Gillette’s impassioned call for the industry to redirect its marketing strategy in order to become more successful in the coming year and beyond. Have you made any New Year’s resolutions regarding your business in 2011? Share them with our readers by writing us a letter!

BOOK NOTES

A Perfect Gift for Watershapers!

Could there be a better holiday gift for any watershaper than a book related to watershaping? Every WaterShapes EXTRA! features a title recommended by book reviewer Mike Farley; we’ve even made it easy to acquire these books through our online store. Know someone who would love to have one of them? Click here!

AQURON CORP. INTERNATIONAL

(Rockwall, TX) offers Invisa-Shield, a sealer for stone and concrete that waterproofs, is abrasion-resistant and stays pliable. The non-toxic, non-polluting, non-flammable, waterborne repellent provides a tough, breathing-type barrier that helps keep surfaces clean while retarding or eliminating efflorescence. It also resists freeze/thaw-related cracking or spalling of vertical and horizontal surfaces. [more]

WATERWAY PLASTICS

(Oxnard, CA) has introduced the Econo-Flo VS variable-speed pump. Made for safe, economical, super-quiet use, the device has a low-amperage design for maximum energy efficiency and a fast payback on the investment. It also has a built-in, user-friendly programmable interface that comes from the factory ready for immediate use, along with a built-in SVRS and freeze protection. [more]

FLORIDA SWIMMING POOL ASSOCIATION

(Sarasota, FL) is approaching the final planning stages for the 2011 edition of the Orlando Pool & Spa Show. Scheduled to take place in West Hall E1 of the Orange County Convention Center on February 11-12, 2011, the professionals-only event encompasses not only pools and spas, but all of the features and accessories that go into backyard paradises. [more]

GRAND EFFECTS

(Irvine, CA) offers a line of fire-and-water bowls. Designed for safe, reliable elegance in any setting, the units are made from copper or concrete (in any of five different finishes) and can be run either manually or automatically using a range of pool- and home-control systems. All systems require water flows in the 10-to-12-gallon-per-minute range and come factory-tested and ready for installation. [more]

December 1, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

FEATURE ARTICLE

How to Make Durable Pool Plaster

‘As familiar as it may seem, plaster is far more complicated than most people think,’ observes Kim Skinner, who has been involved with the swimming pool industry for the past four decades — particularly in relation to pool plaster. In this very practical article, Skinner lays out ten basic recommendations ‘that reliably result in the creation of durable plaster.’ [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

The Mysterious Leaking Fountain

Scott Cohen relates the case of the fountain that continued to leak sporadically despite repeated attempts to fix it. ‘This situation fell into the classic definition of insanity: trying the same thing time and again and hoping for a different result,’ writes Cohen. Learn what the real problem was and how it was fixed. [more]

EXTRA! Read All About It —
Caesars Palace Boasts Pool
Filled with Liquid Chocolate! [more]

MY PERSPECTIVE

'Spread the Word!'

In the last edition of WaterShapes EXTRA!, the outspoken Vance Gillette issued a call to watershapers: In order to become more successful, dramatically change your marketing approach! Here, WaterShapes publisher Jim McCloskey throws his hat into the ring: He seconds Gillette’s call and challenges everyone in the watershaping industry to help spread the word. [more]

BOOK NOTES

Pool Design as Art Form

‘It’s unlikely anyone back in 1992 would have imagined that the daughter of fashion designer Calvin Klein would change the way we think of swimming pools,’ writes WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley. Still, Farley insists that the book Pools by Kelly Klein, first published nearly two decades ago, truly was a game-changer. [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

Readers Respond to Vance Gillette

WaterShapes publisher Jim McCloskey was not the only person who decided to respond to the ideas that industry veteran Vance Gillette put forth in ‘Changing the Industry’s Focus’ in the most recent edition of WaterShapes EXTRA! To read what other people thought about Gillette’s insistence that the watershaping industry must fundamentally alter its longstanding marketing approach, click here.

POLY SOLUTIONS

(Gibsonia, PA) offers Ultra Poly One Coat for repainting or repairing pools or watergardens. Designed for easy one-coat application, the long-lasting, nonhazardous, algae- and stain-resistant material contains no VOCs, has a fast curing time, can be applied under a wide range of temperatures, is easy to clean and maintain and comes in black, white, pool blue and gray as well as custom colors. [more]

ZODIAC POOL SYSTEMS

(Vista, CA) offers Nature2 Fusion, a sanitizing system for inground pools with capacities up to 45,000 gallons. The system works by combining a trichlor erosion tablet feeder with a mineral sanitizing device to control algae and destroy bacteria while minimizing chlorine use and eliminating staining. The result is clear, clean, soft water with reduced odors as well as less eye and skin irritation. [more]

JDC FAUX ROCK CREATIONS

(St. George, UT) designs and installs artificial rock systems in a range of commercial and residential settings — aquariums and zoos as well as indoor gardens and backyard rock formations or waterfeatures. Inspired by the workings of wind, water, heat, cold and powerful geological upheavals, each project offers a high degree of detail in emulating both the beautiful and the unique. [more]

COVER-POOLS

(Salt Lake City, UT) offers Save-T 3 automatic safety pool covers. Designed to operate with the turn of a key or the press of a button, the systems include powerful mechanisms and motors and can be customized to meet the needs of any pool or budget. The cover fabrics can feature custom graphics and are available in nine standard colors and a range of special-order colors. [more]

November 17, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

FEATURE ARTICLE

VOCs: A Highly Volatile Issue

‘There’s no way around the fact that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are nasty stuff,’ observes William D. Palmer Jr., who develops technical and educational resources for Complete Construction Consultants. Here, Palmer delves into the why and how of VOC regulation, and explores water- and soy-based alternatives to VOCs in treating concrete. [more]

SOLUTIONS

On Grounding and Bonding

"In the second half of his two-part feature, pool designer and builder Paolo Benedetti writes, ‘Although grounding and bonding are closely related and oftentimes are even connected, every watershaper needs to know that they serve distinctly separate purposes.’ Benedetti explains the differences between the two in this in-depth technical article. [more]

U.K. UTILITY COMPANY OFFERS FREE SWIMMING LESSONS TO DEAD WOMAN - BUT SHE DOESN'T RESPOND [more]

MY PERSPECTIVE

Changing the Industry's Focus

Over the past four decades, Vance Gillette has become a key figure in the U.S. swimming pool and spa industry. Currently Vice President of Business for Zodiac Pool Systems, the always-energetic Gillette issues an impassioned call to the industry: In order to become more successful, dramatically change your marketing approach! [more]

BOOK NOTES

The Real Dirt on Soil

In the words of WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley, ‘Simply put, a watershape that’s properly engineered in light of prevailing soil conditions will endure, while one that isn’t runs a significant and often inevitable risk of structural failure.’ Farley reviews The Nature and Property of Soils by Ray. R. Weil and Nyle Brady. [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

Changing the Industry's Focus

In his ‘My Perspective’ piece in this WaterShapes EXTRA!, Vance Gillette takes the watershaping industry to task for its traditional marketing approach and calls for a fundamental reorientation. Do you agree? Does the industry do enough to promote the true benefits of its products? What about your company? Let us know what you think by clicking on his article just above and leaving a comment.

WATERWAY PLASTICS

(Oxnard, CA) offers Crystal Water Filters for pools and spas. Designed with two-and-a-half-inch internal piping to minimize restrictions and improve water flow for efficient operation, the cartridge models have four filter elements to simplify element removal and servicing, while the diatomaceous-earth models have curved vertical grids for maximum surface area and more dirt capture. [more]

BIONOVA NATURAL POOLS

(Hackettstown, NJ) has published literature on its approach to the design and construction of natural swimming pools. The 12-page, full-color brochure defines a sustainable, water-conserving, ecologically sound method in which hand-selected plants — rooted hydroponically in a special gravel substrate — serve as biological filters for water circulated by energy-efficient pumps. [more]

AQUAMATIC COVER SYSTEMS

(Gilroy, CA) offers literature on the Hydrolux line of floating pool and spa covers. Made up of buoyant, sealed PVC slats that can be cut to fit virtually any converging shape, the system requires none of the tracks, ropes or leading-edge bars of traditional cover systems — and multiple covers can be deployed from hidden recesses in a pool’s floor to allow for complex pool shapes. [more]

LIGHTSTREAMS GLASS TILE

(Santa Clara, CA) offers Jewel Glass Accent Tiles. These decorative strips are designed for use on steps, benches and waterlines, and feature random patterns and colors cut into rectangles that are nominally 7/8-inches high (in varying widths) mounted on 12-inch mesh strips. The glass comes from the company’s regular patterns, but special looks are added to make every strip unique. [more]

November 3, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

SOLUTIONS

Well-Grounded in Electrical Safety

‘Do you really know the difference between grounding and bonding?’ asks pool designer and builder Paolo Benedetti. The answer, he says, is likely to be no — which is why he has written a two-part feature to explain the distinction. In the first installment, he discusses a number of components that help prevent electrical hazards. [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

Installing Spa-Side Controls Properly

In the latest installment of his series, Scott Cohen relates a case in which a pool leaked every time the adjoining spa was activated. The problem, says Cohen: ‘Whoever installed the spa’s controller forgot to seal the connection to the PVC pipe. This potentially dangerous situation could easily have been avoided with just a few drops of silicone sealant.’ [more]

WOMAN IN BIZARRE SWIMMING-POOL-FOR-MURDER CONSPIRACY PLEADS GUILTY IN FEDERAL COURT [more]

INTERVIEW

How Pool Builders Can Avoid Being Sued

In addition to being owner of Questar Pools in Escondido, Calif., and a founder of The Genesis 3 Design Group, Skip Phillips has served as an expert witness in more than 300 lawsuits involving pool construction. With that vast experience under his belt, Phillips reveals how pool builders can lower the risk of winding up in court. [more]

BOOK NOTES

The Color of Uniqueness

Book reviewer Mike Farley looks at Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable by Seth Godin, a best-selling author ‘well-known for challenging the conventional thinking that constrains many businesses.’ One of Godin’s important messages, according to Farley: ‘To be truly successful...we need to vest our products, services and ourselves with qualities that are unique.’ [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

NM: Doing the Right Thing?

In the last issue of WaterShapes EXTRA!, we asked our readers what they thought of the Neiman Marcus Christmas catalog offering of a $1.5 million “pool sculpture” by glass artist Dale Chihuly. The question we posed: At a time when so many people are experiencing severe economic hardships, is it in bad taste? Click here to see the responses we received.

AQUAFIN

(Elkton, MD) offers 2K/M, a cementitious, acrylic-emulsion-based, highly flexible protective coating and waterproofing barrier for a variety of watershaping and decking applications. The solvent-free, two-component material is resistant to water, moisture and abrasion and can be used as a stand-alone product or may be overcoated with flexible or rigid mortars or coatings for uniform appearance. [more]

MACALITE EQUIPMENT

(Phoenix, AZ) offers mortar and plaster mixers and pumps for pool plaster, masonry, stucco and related applications, along with an extensive line of tools including booster pumps, manifolds, trowels, hoses, spike plates, step-forming tools, wheelbarrows, brushes and more. The company also stocks a complete inventory of replacement parts for mixers and pumps. [more]

SCOTTSDALE FIRE & WATER DESIGNS

(Scottsdale, AZ) offers a fire-and-water pot with four water-delivery spillways. The core fountain structure is 36 inches square with a 24- square-inch firebox mounted in the middle, and there are copper stabilizing rods at all four corners. The units are available in copper, stainless steel and powder-coated steel and include water and grounding connections. [more]

WATERWAY PLASTICS

(Oxnard, CA) offers PowerSeat, a three-jet manifold designed for installation in gunite spas. The easy-to-install, moderately priced, pre-plumbed system features one two-inch spigot connection for water and an inch-and-a-half slip fitting for the air connection to power all three jets, which are designed to accommodate the company’s wide array of Poly Storm and Power Storm jets. [more]

October 20, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

FEATURE ARTICLE

When New Work Fails

When a problem occurs with a recently installed decorative concrete job, who is responsible? Chris Sullivan writes in Concrete Decor magazine: ‘I have personally witnessed many small issues turn into expensive legal claims because there was no clear understanding between installer and client on what was acceptable first-year wear and tear and what was not.’ [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

Singing the Relief-Valve Blues

If a hydrostatic relief valve is put in improperly or not at all, observes Scott Cohen in the latest installment of his ongoing series, it can result in a catastrophic situation that ‘leaves the homeowners with a repair bill so monumental, they’ll do everything in their power to extract the cost from the builder.’ [more]

NEIMAN MARCUS OFFERS
$1.5 MILLION SWIMMING-POOL
ART INSTALLATION IN NEW
CHRISTMAS CATALOG [more]

MY PERSPECTIVE

A Doorway to Emotional Value

According to pond designer and builder Dave Garton, ‘When the external appearance of a waterfeature truly reflects the internal vision of the clients (as interpreted and expressed by the creative talent of the watershaper), something magical can result.’ In this article, Garton offers his recipe for bringing clients’ internal vision to life. [more]

BOOK NOTES

Timeless Landscape Design

WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley evaluates Timeless Landscape Design by the husband-and-wife landscape design team of Mary Palmer Dargan and Hugh Graham Dargan (Wyrick & Co., 2007). Farley says the book may be too basic for landscape designers — but he also thinks that for anyone interested in expanding beyond strictly creating watershapes, ‘this is a great place to start.’ [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

NM: Doing the Right Thing?

At a time when so many people are experiencing severe economic hardships, is it in bad taste for Neiman Marcus to offer a $1.5 million “pool sculpture” in its latest Christmas catalog? To express your opinion, click on Ripples (just above) and add a comment.

BLASTCRETE EQUIPMENT CO.

(Anniston, AL) offers the Model RD6536 Skid-Steer Pump Attachment. Designed for fast, efficient performance in... [more]

EVOSUS

(Vancouver, WA) has added a job-costing component to its business-management software. The new feature offers... [more]

TIMBERTECH

(Wilmington, OH) has introduced ReliaBoard, a decking product that offers all of the benefits of... [more]

GRUNDFOS CBS/PACO PUMPS

(Olathe, KS) has expanded the range of its CR-H multi-stage end-suction pumps to include... [more]

October 6, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

FEATURE ARTICLE

Seeding Concrete Slabs

The choice of materials to use in the decorative seeding of concrete slabs has expanded greatly, and the technique offers considerable cost savings compared to adding decorative aggregate to the mix before pouring or casting. Sue Marquette Poremba, contributing writer for Concrete Decor magazine, explores seeding as one option pool builders might consider. [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

Bad Plot Plans, Big Changes

In the latest installment of his ongoing series, Scott Cohen describes what can happen when building plans vary significantly from the reality on the ground. “Make sure homeowners sign off on designs that are actually going to be built, and avoid springing major changes on them midstream,” Cohen advises. [more]

POWERFUL 'DEATH RAY' FRIES
GUESTS AT LUXURY VEGAS
HOTEL POOL [more]

TRAVELOGUE

Revisiting Hearst Castle

Mark Holden’s less-than-laudatory assessment of Hearst Castle, part of his ‘Essentials’ series, drew a flood of responses from readers — some agreeing with his view of the iconic estate, others strongly disagreeing. We’ve published the responses in previous editions of WaterShapes EXTRA!, and now we’re giving the author an opportunity to answer his critics. [more]

BOOK NOTES

Design from Italy to India

WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley goes international by taking a look at two works on Tuscan design: Tuscan & Andalusian Reflections (2005) and Homes and Courtyards (2007), both by designers from the firm Bassenian/Lagoni Architects. He also explores Hindu and Islamic influences by reviewing Masterpieces of Traditional Indian Architecture by Satish Grover. [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

No Drain, No Gain?

In the last issue of WaterShapes EXTRA!, Dr. William N. Rowley proposed a startling solution to the serious problem of suction entrapment: getting rid of main drains altogether. We thought the idea would roil the watershaping waters — and we were not wrong. To read the feedback we received, click here.

FIRESTONE SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

(Indianapolis, IN) offers PondGard rubber liners. Designed for affordability, durability, extreme conformability and ease of installation, the product is intended for applications not only in ponds, but also in streams, waterfalls and other landscaped, decorative waterfeatures. The material is safe for fish and plants as well as resistant to ultraviolet radiation, weather and algae. [more]

AQURON

(Rockwall, TX) has introduced a collection of products designed to seal and waterproof cementitious and stone surfaces in and around watershapes to stop problems related to water intrusion before they start. The system includes CPSP, a concrete pool-shell protector; MGS, a mortar and grout solution; Invisa-Shield, a stone and concrete sealer; and Invisa-Deck, an elastomeric deck coating. [more]

HEARTH PRODUCTS CONTROLS

(Dayton, Ohio) offers fully assembled, ready-to-install fire pits for outdoor applications. Constructed of heavy-duty stainless steel, the drop-in units come in standard sizes from 13 to 43 inches; are available for operation in a range from 90,000 to 400,000 Btus; and feature the Hot Wire Ignition system, which is designed to work well under rainy and high-wind conditions. [more]

S.R. SMITH

(Canby, OR) offers the Portable Aquatic Lift (PAL), an ADA-compliant, fully portable, battery-operated system that requires no mounting to the pool deck. Featuring a counterweight weighing more than 700 pounds, the device has a lifting capacity of 300 pounds and is designed to meet the needs of facilities that need a lift for multiple locations or that can be stored away when not in use. [more]

September 22, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

FEATURE ARTICLE

Testing Concrete for Moisture

‘The manufacturers of overlays, microcoatings, sealers and specialty coatings set moisture tolerance limits for their products,’ notes David Thompson, contributing writer for Concrete Decor magazine. ‘Ignore those limits and all bets are off that the coatings will perform as intended.’ Thompson explains the calcium chloride and relative humidity tests for moisture in concrete. [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

French Drains the Right Way

In this installment of his ‘Lessons Learned’ series, Scott Cohen examines what can happen when French drains are installed improperly — which, he says, they frequently are. According to Cohen, “The consequences of this error can range from the cosmetic to the structural.” Read this piece to learn the simple, effective answer. [more]

CELINE DION'S PRIVATE WATERPARK TICKS OFF THE NEIGHBORS [more]

INTERVIEW

The Ultimate Solution for Suction Entrapment

As the effects of the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act are being felt throughout the watershaping world, WaterShapes interviews Dr. William N. Rowley about the issue of suction entrapment. Among other things, Dr. Rowley proposes a radical solution to the problem that is bound to make sense to some and anger others. [more]

BOOK NOTES

Watershaping and the Issue of Trust

WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley contends that trust is ’a distinctly elusive quantity in the world of watershaping“ — a view that caused him to explore how trust impacts people’s professional and personal lives. The result of his quest? An installment of his ‘Book Notes’ column on The Little Teal Book of Trust by Jeffrey Gitomer. [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

The Ultimate Solution for Suction Entrapment

Should the watershaping industry solve the problem of suction entrapment by ending the use of main drains in pools and spas? That’s precisely what Dr. William N. Rowley, who has studied the issue for more than three decades, proposes in his interview in this WaterShapes EXTRA! What do you think? Please comment at the end of his interview!

EASYPRO POND PRODUCTS

(Grant, MI) has introduced high-strength reservoir cubes for use in heavy-duty residential and commercial applications. Ideal for... [more]

PEM FOUNTAIN CO.

(Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada) offers the Model 1854/08 Water-Screen Jet to create a screen surface of... [more]

BOBCAT CO.

(West Fargo, ND) has introduced a new rock bucket. Designed to make quick and easy work... [more]

YELLOW MOUNTAIN STONEWORKS

(Seattle, WA) has introduced an antiqued finish for use with its limestone products in both... [more]

September 8, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

FEATURE ARTICLE

Don't Forget the Shelves!

According to waterfeatures construction manager Brian Helfrich, creating an outstanding pond requires proper planning and excavation to accommodate the needs of various aquatic plants. He advises thinking ‘in terms of broad shelves that encompass the ideal water depths for the ranges of plants you want to include’ — marginals, water lilies and oxygenators, for example. [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

Contractors, Footprints and Dust

In the latest installment of his ‘Lessons Learned’ series, watershaper Scott Cohen writes about problems he’s encountered on projects due to the carelessness of contractors from other trades. He also discusses precautions and preemptive measures watershapers should take, and how proper communication with clients can head off misunderstandings and bad feelings. [more]

MYSTERY SWIMMING POOL INSIDE THE WHITE HOUSE REVEALED [more]

MY PERSPECTIVE

Staying Ahead of the Water Wars

In this thought-provoking ‘My Perspective’ essay, landscape contractor Lyle Lavietes argues that the industry had better take a leading role in addressing water management issues, because governments are becoming increasingly interventionist in this realm. As he puts it, ‘Like it or not...water is the new oil, a potentially powerful wedge issue in many political and financial decisions.’ [more]

BOOK NOTES

Uplifting Ideas for Trying Times

‘I regard it as one of the most inspiring and life-altering books I’ve ever read.’ The ‘it’ to which WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley (‘Book Notes’) refers is The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino. Farley first read this well-known work as a teenager, then later in college. Now he’s re-reading it with his 12-year-old son. [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

Landscaping and Watershaping Without Water?

In “Staying Ahead of the Water Wars” in this issue of WaterShapes EXTRA!, author Lyle Lavietes suggests that more, stringent government water-conservation regulations are likely to be coming down the pike. An item in the latest ‘Ripples’ focuses on research that indicates we may be in for severe water shortages in large parts of the United States due to global warming. To comment, see the box at the end of his article.

HAYWARD FLOW CONTROL SYSTEMS

(Clemmons, NC) has launched the PoolMaster series of butterfly valves. Available in sizes ranging from... [more]

PENTAIR WATER COMMERCIAL POOL & AQUATICS

(Sanford, NC) has introduced the Aurora 340, a single-stage, end-suction pump with a capacity of... [more]

JANDY/ZODIAC POOL SYSTEMS

(Vista, CA) has introduced the Jandy JS100 side-mount sand filter. Designed to deliver crystal-clear water... [more]

NEXXUS LIGHTING

(Orlando, FL) has introduced Galaxy Plus — color LED replacements for standard pool lights. The units use... [more]

August 18, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

FEATURE ARTICLE

Five Keys to Waterproofing Success

Concrete shells must be sealed to make certain they hold their water — but how? According to chemist Mike Mudrick, selecting an approach to waterproofing is 'one of the most important steps in the construction of gunite, shotcrete or poured-concrete watershape shells and structures.' Here he suggests five questions to answer first. [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

Keep Weep Screeds Clear

Watershaper Scott Cohen discusses a serious problem that can arise when weep screeds are blocked and therefore cannot keep moisture from accumulating at the base of a wall. Remedying the results after the fact can be extremely expensive, which is why Cohen recommends avoiding the problem in the first place. [more]

WALL STREET JOURNAL SLAMS POOLS — READERS DISAGREE

[more]

INTERVIEW

A Marketing Pro Surveys the Industry

WaterShapes editor Eric Herman talks with Laurie Batter, a watershaping industry publicist with more than 25 years of experience. Batter — a recipient of the Eagle Award, the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals' highest individual recognition — discusses the current state of the industry and where she thinks it's headed. [more]

BOOK NOTES

Two Tales of Two Architects

About his trips to Fort Worth's Modern Art Museum and Kimbell Art Museum, WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley observes, ironically, that '[books] cannot replace the experience of visiting such great spaces in person.' Still, Farley recommends two titles about the architects who designed those museums: Tadao Ando and Louis Kahn. [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

Hearst Castle: A Question of Balance

In the August 4 issue of WaterShapes EXTRA!, Mark Holden wrote: 'I am willing to concede that Hearst's San Simeon compound and collections impress in their scale and sheer vastness, but shouldn't we, as design-oriented professionals, perceive his "achievement" with far more critical eyes than the average visitor to the estate?' Holden's critique of Hearst Castle engendered a number of interesting reader responses. [more]

August 4, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

TRAVELOGUE

Hearst Castle: A Question of Balance

Many consider William Randolph Hearst's opulent estate in San Simeon, Calif., to be an American classic — but watershaper Mark Holden takes a very different view. According to Holden, the place prompts him to ask this question: Why do we find certain spaces uninviting? What he concludes about Hearst Castle may surprise you. [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

Clients and Color Consistency

The use of decorative concrete in a rainbow of colors has opened a great many design possibilities for watershapers. Unfortunately, it also has led to problems when clients think the outcome doesn't match the exact colors they requested. Watershaper Scott Cohen suggests ways to avoid client disappointment and professional headaches. [more]

SEE THE WORLD'S MOST AMAZING SWIMMING POOL — AND MORE! [more]

INTERVIEW

On Mastering the Good Life

For homeowners, having a backyard watershape both symbolizes and provides a certain coveted lifestyle. No one understands that better than Brian Van Bower, author of the 'Aqua Culture' column in WaterShapes. In this perceptive interview, he explains why it's important — both personally and professionally — for watershapers to live 'the good life' as well. [more]

BOOK NOTES

Maximizing Positive Feelings

According to WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley, watershapers and landscapers are in the business of creating positive emotional responses on the part of clients — which is why he recommends the book The Inward Garden by Julie Moir Messervy. "I found [Messervy's] approach to be fascinating, insightful and, ultimately, extremely useful," Farley says. [more]

JOIN THE DIALOGUE

On Eric and the Economy

In the last issue of WaterShapes EXTRA!, we asked readers if they agreed with WaterShapes' editor Eric Herman's assessment - expressed in an interview in this newsletter - of an improving economy as related to watershaping. In the interview, Eric commented that "one of the things we've suspected during the economic downturn is that the demand for our industry's products and services has not gone away. What has been lacking is confidence in the economy and... [more]

ROMAN FOUNTAINS

(Albuquerque, NM) has introduced an advanced line of super- bright LED/RGB submersible lighting fixtures for use in decorative fountain applications. Designed with... [more]

AQUA DESIGN GROUP

(Brooklyn, NY) offers underwater acrylic windows for pools. Designed not only to allow interesting light to filter into the pool but also... [more]

WHITEWATER WEST INDUSTRIES

(Richmond, British Columbia, Canada) has introduced the MEGAtube series of waterslides/raft rides. Engineered to include more twists, turns and surprises than... [more]

ANCHOR WALL SYSTEMS

(Minneapolis, MN) has introduced LedgeWall, a retaining wall system with a decorative face that offers the appearance of stacked stone. Made using... [more]

July 14, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

PONDCRAFT

A Mini-Lesson on Water Quality

Watershapers who create naturalistic installations need to understand the principles of water chemistry that impact these systems. In the first installment of this new series, Dave Kelly reviews the factors that influence pH values, plus the macronutrients and micronutrients that help sustain life in aquatic environments. [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

The Hazards of Water Migration

While water moving from one level to another in waterfeatures undoubtedly adds interest and delight for the eye and ear, it also can damage stone used in waterline applications. Scott Cohen looks at the phenomenon of spillway turbulence and suggests ways to avoid the problems it may cause. [more]

MY PERSPECTIVE

On Water and Being Human

According to Dave Garton, watershaping is not just about pumps and filters and rockwork. He believes it is a noble endeavor that provides people with a desperately needed respite from their hectic lives, helps them find greater inner peace and enables them to reconnect with their humanity. [more]

BOOK NOTES

Remembering Ferruccio Vitale

Never heard of Ferruccio Vitale? Neither had WaterShapes book reviewer Mike Farley — until he read R. Terry Schnadelbach's Ferruccio Vitale: Landscape Architect of the Country Place Era. As Farley admits in his review, "...it actually bothers me that this is my first contact with such a great landscape artist." [more]

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Is Eric Herman Right?

In a recent issue of WaterShapes EXTRA!, Eric Herman, the editor of WaterShapes, voiced his opinion that the economic environment for watershapers is improving. He said, "One of the things we've suspected during the economic downturn is that the demand for our industry's products and services has not gone away. What has been lacking is confidence in the economy and the availability of financing. I believe both of those situations are beginning to turn around."

WHITEWATER WEST INDUSTRIES

(Richmond, British Columbia, Canada) has introduced the MEGAtube series of waterslides/raft rides. Engineered to include more twists, turns and surprises than any other raft ride... [more]

JANDY/ZODIAC POOL SYSTEMS

(Vista, CA) has introduced the Jandy Legacy line of pool heaters. Designed specifically as a replacement product for the renovation market, the reliable, easy-to-install units... [more]

PADDOCK POOL EQUIPMENT CO.

(Rock Hill, SC) has introduced the Evacuator, a system that reduces the risk of asthma reactions among users of indoor pools by drawing off chloramines and... [more]

DECK-O-SEAL

(Hampshire, IL) offers Deck-O-Seal, a two-part, polysulfide-based joint sealant that is pourable, self-leveling, non-staining and cures at ambient temperatures to form... [more]

June 30, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

SOLUTIONS

Face-lifts for Face Rings

Some people say there are unattractive things we just can't avoid in installing our watershapes, including the visual intrusions provided by junction boxes, drain covers, skimmer lids, deck drains, pool cover key switches, spa-side remotes and all sorts of other things I refer to as "architectural uglies." Personally (and I know I'm not alone)... [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

Planning for a Rainy Day

In most backyard swimming pool projects, we install the drainage systems for decks after the swimming pool's plumbing, basically because the pool plumbers use big trenchers that will likely destroy the small drainage plumbing if it's already in place. That sequencing, combined in one instance with bad timing and a minor lapse in... [more]

INTERVIEW

Reviewing a Decade of 'Book Notes'

Veteran readers of WaterShapes will recognize the name Mike Farley as the author of "Book Notes," the magazine's long-running and highly popular book review column. For the past decade, Mike has brought a world of useful material to the attention of watershapers who want to broaden their vision and expand their knowledge... [more]

BOOK NOTES

Capturing a Gift from the Skies

The numbers are eye-popping: Just about one percent of all the water on Planet Earth exists as fresh water suitable for human consumption. And depending on where you live in the United States, anywhere from a quarter to almost half of that precious resource is used for... [more]

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Saltwater: A Convenient Scapegoat?

The many and varied responses we received in relation to Jeff Freeman's article "Saltwater: A Convenient Scapegoat?" in the June 16 issue of WaterShapes EXTRA! conclusively prove one thing: The article did not end the controversy surrounding the effects of saltwater chlorination systems. Indeed, the fact that a ... [more]

AQUA DESIGN GROUP

(Brooklyn, NY) offers underwater acrylic windows for pools. Designed not only to allow interesting light to filter into the pool but also so people outside the water... [more]

HAYWARD POOL PRODUCTS

(Elizabeth, NJ) offers high-flow drain covers and frames that comply with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act. These anti-entrapment devices are... [more]

EVO ORGANIC

(Lexington, KY) offers the WonderWall Vertical Garden System. Designed to turn any wall into lush greenspace, the self-contained, space-saving modules fit in small or large spaces... [more]

ROMAN FOUNTAINS

(Albuquerque, NM) has introduced an advanced line of super-bright LED/RGB submersible lighting fixtures for use in decorative fountain applications. Designed with high-output, magnified LED ... [more]

June 16, 2010

WATERSHAPES.COM

TRAVELOGUE

Villa d'Este: Fountain Perfection

If you're looking for a destination that includes, all in one place, several of the most enduring and influential watershapes of all time, you couldn't go wrong in visiting Villa d'Este — without question one of the greatest collections of watershapes on earth. Perhaps best known as the inspiration for... [more]

LESSONS LEARNED

Cold Joints: Avoiding Costly Repairs

In pool-remodeling work, it's very common to raise a bond beam to meet the needs of a new deck or edge detail — or simply to make the pool level again. As ordinary a step as this may seem, it can be trickier than you might think because, in applying ... [more]

MY PERSPECTIVE

Saltwater: A Convenient Scapegoat?

For the past several years, a number of people in the swimming pool industry have debated whether saltwater has a detrimental effect on concrete and, in some cases, stone decks. As one who has worked extensively with saltwater chlorination systems, I've studied this issue in depth in an effort to understand... [more]

BOOK NOTES

Defining Resources

Those of you who've followed this column for any length of time know that it's all about my hunt for resources that will help me become better at what I do. As I see it, my job here is to share what I discover in the hope that my own... [more]

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Low Bidders: A Cancer on Commerce

Considering the number of responses we received, the article "Low Bidders: A Cancer on Commerce" (WaterShapes EXTRA! 6/2/2010) really struck a chord with our readers. In his piece, author Paolo Benedetti asserted that low-ball bidding "degrades the product, leaves the clients unhappy and diminishes the overall reputation of the watershaping industry." To read... [more]

SGM

(Pompano Beach, FL) now offers custom blending of its River Rok Natures Collection of pool finishes. Designed to allow greater flexibility in matching color palettes... [more]

POOL SHOT PRODUCTS

(Ashtabula, OH) has introduced lighted pool-and-patio furniture. The lightweight rounded chairs and cylindrical tables are designed for use in hotels and resorts... [more]

W.R. MEADOWS

(Hampshire, IL) has introduced 588-10K, a construction-grade grout. This hydraulic-cement-based, precision, nonshrink, load-bearing material is designed to transfer loads effectively and [more]

NATARE CORP.

(Indianapolis, IN) offers underwater observation windows for swimming or diving pools. Designed to assist in teaching and underwater photography or to provide the ultimate view... [more]

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New Products at Watershapes.com

Fox Pool Offers Drop-In Spas

Pool/Spa Systems & Equipment
Product information from Fox Pool Corp. on its PoolMate line of pre-plumbed, fully engineered drop-in spas for use in pool environments

Pool/Spa Systems & Equipment
Product information from AquaCal about upgrades for its HeatWave SuperQuiet heat pumps for pool applications.

Fountain Systems & Equipment
Product information from Stone Forest on its ribbed-granite sphere fountains

Pool/Spa Systems & Equipment
Product information from Pentair Commercial Aquatics on its Acu Drive XS variable frequency drives for pool pumps

Fountain Supply Co. Offers Water-Level Controller

Fountain Systems & Equipment
Link to product information from Fountain Supply Co. on its electronic water-level controller

RenoSys Manufacturers Pads for Slide Bases

Other Watershape Systems & Equipment
Product information from RenoSys on its SoftSide line of pads for safety around ladders and other deck features

WaterShapes World (blog)
Sorting through his understanding of the dynamics of water-related businesses, Jim McCloskey recalls the industry's last big generational transition -- and holds out some hope that the one we're experiencing now will take a somewhat easier path than the previous one.

2010/12.2, December 15 -- Santa's Thoughts on Watershapes, Ripples, Holiday Wishes and more

2010/12.1, December 1 -- Durable Plaster, Leaking Fountain, Kelly Klein's Pools and more

2010/11.2, November 17 -- VOCs, Grounding and Bonding, Vance Gillette and more

2010/11.1, November 3 -- Electrical Safety, Spa-Side Controls, Interview and more

2010/10.2, October 20 -- Expectations, Relief Valves, Ripples and more

2010/10.1, October 6 -- Seeding Concrete Slabs, Good Plot Plans, Exotic Design and more

2010/9.2, September 22 -- Moisture in Concrete, French Drains, Suction Entrapment and more

2010/9.1, September 8 -- Pond Shelves, Careless Contractors, Water Wars and more

2010/8.2, August 18 -- Waterproofing Concrete Shell, Clearing Weep Screeds, Interview and more

2010/8.1, August 4 -- Hearst Castle, Color Consistency, Interview and more

2010/7.1, July 14 -- Pond-Water Quality, Water Migration, Book Review and more

2010/6.3, June 30 -- Hiding Face Rings, Water Damage, Interview and more

2010/6.2, June 16 -- Villa d'Este, Cold Joints, Saltwater Pools and more

New Products at Watershapes.com

Fox Pool Offers Drop-In Spas

AquaCal Updates Look of Heat Pumps

Stone Forest’s Ribbed Sphere Fountains

Pentair Commercial Offers Acu Drive XS

Fountain Supply Co. Offers Water-Level Controller

RenoSys Manufacturers Pads for Slide Bases