Sealing concrete pools

One of the most important steps in gunite or concrete swimming pool construction is selecting the right type of waterproofing. Concrete is a porous substrate prone to water penetration; therefore, it has to be sealed to keep water in the pool, in addition to keeping...
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The benefits of ornamental grasses

Ornamental grasses are some of the most underrated and under-used categories of plant material in modern landscaping. Their reputation is growing, but with so many advantages and so few disadvantages, it is clear their popularity has yet to peak. Given the impact, versatility and benefits these plants can offer,...
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Value-based selling

A customer enters a pool store with an electrolytic chlorine generator (ECG) cell that is scaled beyond repair. If the customer wants to continue enjoying his/her saltwater pool, the cell would need to be replaced and a better quality pool salt with scale preventatives should be recommended. However, due...
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Preventing saltwater scale

Scale is one of the most common and serious challenges in saltwater pool maintenance. It typically forms first on the cell plates of the electrolytic chlorine generator (ECG), where it can remain undetected until the problem is well advanced. It also hampers the effectiveness and lifespan of the ECG...
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Using rebar in aquatic design

By Barry Justus

Builders of swimming pools, spas and water features are required to work under a variety of conditions and in diverse locations. Earthquake zones, expansive clays, hillsides, ascending slopes, rooftops, freeze/thaw, solar cycles and a wide array of increasingly sophisticated and complex aquatic designs can challenge one’s...

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Tree care and maintenance

By Jeff McMann

Trees play an important part in a landscape environment, often providing the backbone around which backyards are built. They improve the quality of the air we breathe, absorbing, trapping and filtering harmful pollutants. They provide shade around the pool in the summer and shelter in winter....

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