6 Popular Pool Decking Options

If you are considering remodeling your pool decking or planning a new pool, there are many choices for pool deck materials. The pool deck is an extension of your patio or outdoor living space and should reflect your style. However, there is more to consider than just appearance when it comes to pool decking. Here are six popular choices for pool decking and the benefits of each.

  1. Concrete. The standard for pool decking is concrete, a safe and affordable option. For the budget-conscious, this can be the best choice but it is more costly to repair and lacks aesthetic appeal.
  2. Pavers. A stylish option with easy maintenance and repairs, pavers can be an excellent choice. Pavers can be man-made concrete or stone, depending on your preference and budget.
  3. Tile. For bright colors and elegance, tile can be stunning around the pool. However, it can be slick when wet, which can be a safety issue.
  4. Flagstone. For a natural appearance, flagstone can create a lagoon-like style for your pool area. Stick to lighter colors to keep the stone from becoming too hot in the sun.
  5. Travertine or marble. Veined marble or travertine is a gorgeous option for your pool decking. It stays cool and is non-slip for a perfect surrounding to your pool but it is more expensive than some other options.
  6. Wood. The beauty of wood can brighten your pool area but it does have drawbacks. Wood is high-maintenance, especially when exposed to water on a regular basis.

Choosing the right pool decking is important for the style, safety and maintenance aspects you prefer. Talk to your pool remodeling contractor to determine which is best for your budget and needs.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

How are Gunite and Fiberglass or Vinyl Pools Different?

If you are planning on adding a new pool to your backyard, you may have plenty of questions. How long will it take to build your pool? How much will it cost? But before you can get answers to any of those questions, you need to decide on the type of pool you will be adding. This will impact how long it will take to build and the cost. Three of the most popular options are gunite/shotcrete, fiberglass and vinyl. Knowing the differences can help you decide which is the best fit for your needs.

Fiberglass Shell

Fiberglass shells come pre-shaped and formed for the size of your pool. The hole is dug the size of the shell and the plumbing is installed before the fiberglass shell is installed. These pools are less expensive than gunite or concrete pools and do have a long-life with little maintenance. Some shells come with a lifetime warranty but they are limited in size and shape.

Vinyl Liners

Vinyl liner pools attach to a premade structure in the ground. The liner is similar to an above-ground pool but sunken in the ground. These pools are the least expensive of all in-ground pools but they typically need to be replaced about every 7-10 years.

Gunite/Shotcrete/Concrete Pools

By far the most versatile, gunite pools are built to the depth, width and shape desired. The concrete is applied to a metal structure that can be designed to fit the needs of the homeowner. These pools can last for decades but do require resurfacing every 10 years or so. Gunite or shotcrete pools are the most popular pools due to their unlimited design potential but do cost the most.

To find out which pool is the best for your needs and budget, talk to your local pool contractor.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

3 Ways to Rejuvenate Your Pool Area

The good news is that most pools can last for decades; the bad news is they will look outdated or worse for wear much quicker. When your pool is first installed, everything is new and sparkling. After a few years of use, styles change and constant use takes its toll. If your pool is showing signs of wear or just needs a new look, here are three ways to rejuvenate your pool area without replacing your pool.

  1. Install a new pool deck. The surrounding paving around your pool can make a big impact on its appearance. If you have an old pool deck that is cracking, unlevel or just plain, consider a natural stone or paver pool deck to upgrade your pool area.
  2. Resurface your pool. The surface of your pool needs to be replaced to protect your pool from leaks and damage. It also can transform the look of your pool. A new surface can give it an updated sparkle and color – in many cases, a resurfaced pool can look brand-new again.
  3. Add some interesting features. If you want to upgrade your pool area, consider adding some features. Fire and pool lighting can add color and brightness to your pool area at night; waterfalls, water walls and other water features can create movement and sound for an intriguing pool experience.

You can reinvent your pool area without replacing your pool. A few renovations or upgrades can make a big difference in the style of your pool area for your enjoyment and to add value to your home. Contact your local pool remodel specialists to discuss the best options to improve and rejuvenate your pool area.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

Cool Design Elements for Updating Your Pool

Does your swimming pool have a drab or dull appearance? Or maybe it is bright and brilliant, but you would prefer a softer natural style or a clean, modern look. There is no reason to consider replacing a pool due to style – a few updates can transform your pool. Consider updating your pool with these cool design elements.

Resurface for a New Look

One of the quickest ways to update your pool without much fuss is resurfacing. For older pools with stains and faded areas, a new surface can make them look new again. Resurfacing can also change the color or brilliance of your pool, while protecting the base lining to extend the lifespan.

Rock Work, Waterfalls and Stone Pool Decks

If natural stone is your favorite element for your outdoor spaces, consider adding more stone to your pool area. Pool renovators can add rock work as a backdrop to your pool and spa, or a waterfall with natural stones to create a realistic oasis. Natural stone can also be used around your pool – consider a gorgeous marble or travertine pool deck.

Light Up the Nights

Pools are not just for sunbathing – a cool dip on a warm night is a great use of your pool. Plus, your pool is the centerpiece of your outdoor space. Light it up with fiberoptic lighting that can infuse color and light into the night for entertaining after dusk.

Your pool does not need to be boring or outdated. Discuss a pool design upgrade with resurfacing, features, natural stone or new lighting with your local pool renovation specialist. Use one or more options to update your pool and give your outdoor space an enhanced appearance.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

Hot Trends for a Cool Pool

Do you want a new swimming pool that transcends your backyard into a modern aqua oasis? If you are considering renovating your old pool or are ready to finally add a pool to your property, there are innovative options to create a stunning centerpiece for your yard. Consider these hot trends in pool design to add value and beauty to your home, giving you the coolest pool in the neighborhood.

Raised Pool Edges

While infinity pool edges drop off into the horizon, a raised pool edge gives you a spectacular enclosure to your pool. This design creates a well-formed outline of your pool and a perfect place to sit while entering or exiting the pool. This can also be an ideal way to add in a swim-up bar that is common at beach resorts, creating your own vacation spot in your backyard and a big hit at pool parties.

Darker Pool Colors

A dramatic look for your new pool can be accomplished using darker colors. Consider navy blues, dark grays or even black for the interior to give your pool a unique look that embodies depth and tranquility, versus the conventional lighter colors.

Uniform Depth

If your pool will be used by mostly adults or older children, consider a uniform depth pool. This gives a longer swimming area for achieving cardio benefits and has the added benefit of using less energy to keep heated.

There is no reason to settle for generic pool. Looking for more ideas to create a unique and trendy pool for your home? Contact your local pool design specialist to learn more about the latest trends in pool design and renovation options.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

4 Benefits of Updating Your Concrete Pool Deck

Many pools are constructed with a simple concrete pool deck when they are built. While perfectly functional, the gray concrete can leave quite a bit to be desired when it comes to style and comfort. If you are looking for a way to improve your pool area, you may be surprised what a difference updating your concrete pool deck can make. Here are four benefits of upgrading to a new style for your pool deck.

  1. Foot and knee comfort. Concrete can be rough on feet and knees. Options like stone pavers are gentler on the feet and are less likely to scrape knees when climbing out of the pool onto the pool deck.
  2. Add color. Pool deck coverings can be bright and beautiful. Choose from many different color options with tile or pavers to give your blue pool a delightful border.
  3. Patterns. Tired of the plain, gray pool deck? Your pool deck designer can help you choose interesting patterns for your new pool deck that will enhance the style of your pool area.
  4. Value. When it comes to the value of your home, your pool area can have a significant impact. Updating your pool deck can add value and beauty to your home that may serve you well if you decide to sell your home.

There are many options available for new surfaces for your pool deck that can improve the look and even make it easier to maintain. Contact your local pool remodeling contractor to begin exploring all the different materials, colors and designs to upgrade your pool deck for a new style for your outdoor area.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

Choose the Pool Waterfall to Match Your Style

Do you want to upgrade your swimming pool with a waterfall? You may already have an image in mind of the waterfall you want, but you may not realize how many different options are available for pool waterfalls. From large, cascading “natural” waterfalls to contemporary designs that offer an artistic spray of water, you can find a waterfall that will match your style and add the movement and sound you want for your pool area.

Modern Arch Waterfalls

If you have a sleek or modern pool design, you may want to match your waterfall to your pool style with an arch design. These waterfalls are more like a spout that pours and arches water into the pool. The spouts come in many shapes and sizes, offering an artistic option to add water movement in your pool.

Traditional Rainforest Waterfall

For the traditional natural waterfall that cascades over rocks into your pool, you want a rainforest waterfall. These can be a small formation of rocks on the ledge of your pool or a large wall of boulders that showers water with a relaxing sound of moving, splashing water.

Water Wall or Water Curtain

Another option that is popular is the water wall or curtain. This uses a straight line of water that flows directly down, creating the wall or curtain of water. The sound is amazing and the design compliments many of the more modern pool designs like infinity pools.

To explore all the different options available in waterfalls and water features for your pool, contact your local pool remodeling contractor. You can find the perfect waterfall to match your style and improve the beauty of your pool area.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
4581 Weston Road
Weston, FL 33331
(954) 840-8544

Sell Your Home Faster with Pool Resurfacing

The aesthetic elements of your home make a significant difference when you are trying to sell your home, including your swimming pool. While your pool may be in good condition, if it has surface stains or a faded surface, it can impact the appearance. One improvement you can make that will enhance the overall beauty and desirability of your home is pool resurfacing, helping you sell your home faster.

Aesthetic Impressions Impact Home Buyers

It is not just curb appeal that is important for selling a home. Buyers are impacted on many aesthetic features, from the kitchen and living areas to your backyard and pool. The aesthetic impression when a buyer views your home may not be as important as size, location and price, but it does differentiate your home from others that are similar.

Resurfacing a worn-looking pool can help buyers envision enjoying your home as their own. It enhances the aesthetics of the outdoor space, which is one of the factors that can make a home more desirable over others in the same area and size class. The investment can pay off by enticing buyers to pick your home as their preferred choice, helping you sell quicker in a competitive home selling market.

If you are planning on selling your home and your pool has a deteriorating surface, consider resurfacing before your put your home on the market. It can enhance the beauty and value of your home, which can lead to more interested buyers and bids for your home. Talk to your local pool remodeling contractor to learn about cost-effective options for resurfacing and make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

Updating Your Pool from Boring to Brilliant

In some regions, swimming pools are as common as a backyard patio. Almost every home in some neighborhoods has a pool, but that does not mean they are all the same in beauty and function. If you have a home with a pool that is subpar compared to many neighboring pools, it is time to give it an upgrade. Go from boring to brilliant with some of these pool remodeling basics.

Personalized Design

Many boring pools are cookie-cutter, a standard pool that was installed when the home was built. You need a design that reflects your style. Consider your landscaping and home style to find a pool design that will blend with your home – natural, tropical, contemporary or modern designs that will compliment your home and outdoor space.

Quality Materials

A stunning pool starts with the basic materials. Choosing elements that are made from quality materials can make a significant difference in both appearance and function. It is worth the investment to update your pool with a durable surface with aesthetic benefits and other functional qualities.

Phenomenal Features

What does your dream pool look like? While you may not be able to afford to build the pool of your dreams, you can incorporate some of the features. Add in the waterfall or sun shelves you always wanted; opt for pool automation or enhanced lighting. Make your old pool a version of the dream pool in your mind.

Remodeling and updating your boring pool can make your backyard brilliant while adding value to your home. Contact your local pool remodeling contractor to discuss the new design and elements to update your swimming pool for the upcoming season.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780

4 Ways to Give Your Old Pool New Life

Is your old pool looking drab after many years of use? While it may be functional, sometime old pools need some rejuvenation to keep them looking beautiful. There are ways to spruce up your pool area without remodeling the entire pool. Here are four suggestions to give your old pool new life for an improved pool setting at your home.

  1. Add a water feature. Sometimes all you need is a few bells and whistles to update your pool. Adding a waterfall or other water features can add some movement and beauty to your pool area. Pool lighting can bring these water features to life, especially at night.
  2. Resurfacing. It is incredible how big of a difference resurfacing your pool can make. Like painting an old house, it can make your pool look new again. If you have faded or stained areas on your pool surface, give it a makeover with a sparkling new pool surface.
  3. Add a spa. Even just adding a spa can change the look of your pool area. Talk to your local pool renovation company about beautiful options for spa additions to your pool.
  4. Pool decks and tanning shelves. If your pool is in good shape but just needs updating, consider remodeling the pool deck. Paving stones or tile can give your pool a lovely new border. You can also add features like tanning shelves to add dimension.

Your pool is the centerpiece of your outdoor living space. Make sure it looks its best to add beauty and value to your home. Call your local pool renovation specialists to discuss ideas to give your old pool a new look that you will love.

Posted on behalf of:
Somar Pool Service & Repairs
401 East Las Olas Boulevard #130
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
954-800-0780