Construction Systems/Materials

RENOLIT Makes Vogue Collection
RENOLIT offers its VOGUE Collection of four reinforced membrane designs that are printed with a unique relief and texture that provides a refined interior finish for waterproofing pools. Made of 80-mil thick, commercial grade, reinforced PVC with Class C slip resistant properties, these four designs offer a commercial grade color selection and texture that makes them ideal for both new pool construction or for renovating leaking or deteriorated pools.  Learn more here.
Pentair’s Lube-Free Valves
Pentair offers lube-free valves with excellent flow characteristics, manufactured to strict quality standards and never require lubrication. Constructed of durable CPVC or PVC, they include a PTFE coated diverter seal, are chemical resistant and withstand up to 150 psi, among many other features. When paired with valve actuators, they're the perfect solution for fully automated operation, the company says. Learn more here.
Rebirthing a Community Asset
In an era when many public pools have fallen into decay and ceased to exist, the City of Globe, AZ, had a different fate in mind for its community pool. With assists from a top-flight project team, the community undertook an expansive pool renovation project featuring an updated design and functionality.  ...
Achieving Realism: Finishing Techniques for Cast-Concrete Rocks
It’s true that some artificial rock installations are not convincing. In an effort to solve those disconnects, today’s cast-concrete rock panel systems are taken from natural stone. When installed and finished correctly, rock panels can look like the real thing. ...
Real Advantages of Artificial Turf
Artificial turf has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years, and especially so in its use beside swimming pools and other bodies of water, says turf specialist Nick Ogilvie. Water conservation, radically reduced maintenance and great appearance are all reasons for the movement toward grass that never grows and never dies.  ...
Classic Liner Design from Poolside by CGT
Poolside by CGT now offers a new vinyl pool liner design that combines a stylish tile border with a complementary wall and floor pattern. New ‘Water Street’ provides a modern twist on a classic design, using rich, vibrant blue hues, this pool liner pattern is printed on a medium blue base film with a complementary floor pattern that makes pool water sparkle. Available in both 20 & 28 mil thickness. ...
Low-Profile Pool Enclosures
Pool & Spa Enclosure offers the Corona pool enclosure, the company’s least expensive model, designed as the ideal solution for customers who want to protect their views yet it is still high enough to swim under the cover. Just like any of the low height models, you can easily enter the enclosure simply by sliding a door – no need for your customers to bend down to enter their enclosure. Low pool enclosures enable pool users to swim freely in an enclosed swimming pool environment. ...
AquaStar Introduces New Line of Valves & Actuators
AquaStar Pool Products, Inc., is pleased to announce the launch of a new product category with the introduction of FlowStar valves and actuators. The line includes two- and three-way valves, a check valve, and a valve actuator designed to meet the diverse needs of the pool industry. FlowStar series products are made in the USA using raw materials sourced within the country.  The valves and actuators feature a lifetime warranty. ...
Cold-Weather Tile Installation
When you consider the long-term environmental exposure every pool tile installation endures, Amy Denny explains that it merits elevating installation methods, setting materials, and the installation environment. A deliberate and planned strategy is paramount, especially when working in cold temperatures. ...
Mosaics of Experience
What started out as an Italy trip devoted to the pursuit of fine food and wine, Lea and George Frederick, wound up deeply imbibing in the world of mosaic art at a remarkable facility in Vincenza. Here they share a slice of travelogue and images that point to the remarkable possibilities of artistically arranged bits of glass tile.   ...