Stacking the Deck with Education
Watershape University is set to deal a winning hand at this year’s International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo, Nov. 12-17 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Nov. 12-17, with a full slate of courses covering a spectrum of important watershaping topics aimed at improving design and construction skillsets. ...
Not Enough or Too Much
Between the ravages of protracted drought and devastation of widespread flooding, the summer of 2022 will be remembered as a season of extremes. Besides realizing the obvious point that weather that is either too dry or too wet is dangerous, these crises illustrate the need for investment in, and commitment to, long-term infrastructure solutions. ...
Thriving Beyond Recession
Who are the companies that thrive after times of economic hardship? The Harvard Business Review conducted an extensive study of that very question during the peak of the last “great” recession. As we now face a growingly uncertain economic picture, considering what they found may be of use today.    ...
Considering Service
All watershapes require service and maintenance. How easy or difficult the needed maintenance tasks are for the service technician is largely due to decisions made by the build. Here Steve Kenny explains how his years of service experience, and running a service division, influence his company’s approach to engineering and construction. ...
Losing the Language Wars
Does the language we use to describe watershapes matter? Eric Herman thinks so, but he also admits that as a long-time industry editor, he might care a bit too much. Should it be “infinity edge” or “vanishing edge”? Or should “spa” be replaced with “hot tub”? ...
Crafting Impressions
Swimming pool tile specialist, Jimmy Reed, is passionate about his work installing breathtaking tile surfaces in swimming pools. He’s also succeeded in featuring his artisanal works in a variety of media settings promoting his artistic excellence. Here he offers advice and perspective for others who endeavor to elevate their reputation by way of today’s accessible communications landscape. ...
Wellness by Design
The Wolfpack values health and wellness, which is why Watershape University is debuting a new advanced construction course this year in Las Vegas, a unique offering that brings the world of watershapes, wellness and design together. ...
AquaStar Introduces New Unblockable Drain Cover
AquaStar Pool Products (Ventura, CA) has introduced the Perfect Circle drain, an unblockable drain option designed for use in concrete pools and spas. It has four ports which gives designers the ability to use multiple pumps and a hydrostatic relief valve with this one single unblockable drain cover.  The unique open center design allows the cover to blend seamlessly into the pool or spa finish. Read more.
Mistcooling Offers Pool Cooler
Mistcooling (Houston, TX) makes Pool Cooler, a simple fixtures designed to decrease pool water temperatures up to 10 degrees. It's easy to install, made in the USA, and operates without additional electricity, a cost-effective method of cooling a swimming pool compared to pool chillers, the company says.  It does not require any Freon or gas to operate, and attaches to a pool return jet fitting. Read more.
Detail S129: Coffer Coordination
Creating containment vessels, i.e. coffers, on hillside pools often requires building the coffer far head of the pool itself. As Richard C. Kremer points out in this latest Beneath the Surface detail, doing so requires careful design coordination with general contractors before the coffer is built, as illustrated by this clever containment solution.  ...