How an Outdoor Pool Can Improve Mental Health As the world becomes increasingly fast-paced and stressful, prioritizing our mental well-being is more important than ever. At Platinum Pools, we understand that a relaxing poolside retreat can be just what you need to unwind and recharge. The Power of Nature Research has long shown that spending time outdoors can greatly impact …
How to Choose the Right Pool Design for Your Backyard
A swimming pool is more than just a place to cool off on a hot day. It can also enhance the beauty, value, and enjoyment of your backyard. But how do you choose the right pool design for your space, style, and budget? Here are some tips to help you make the best decision. Consider the shape and size of …
Pencil Jets – A Continuous Feature with a “Wow!” Effect
There’s nothing quite like the calming effect of moving water, which is why water features have become a trendy and rapidly growing addition to pools and their surroundings. Adding water features to your pool enhances its beauty and brings excitement to your backyard oasis. There are countless water feature options, including gushers, scuppers, weeping walls, and grottos. Pencil jets, also …
Extend the Use of Your Oasis – Pool Heaters
Although we all wish summer would last forever, time inevitably moves on. However, investing in a reliable pool heating system can prolong the opportunity to swim for a couple more months. Investing in a pool heating system is a great idea if you want to enjoy your pool throughout the year. It’s important to research and choose the right system …
Advantages of Having a Pool Chiller
Please remember that depending solely on natural cooling methods will not adequately maintain a comfortable temperature for your pool water during the blistering summer heat. Although various blogs advise on how to regulate pool water temperature, we recommend investing in a pool chiller. Are you finding your swimming pool too warm in the scorching Texas sun? Keep in mind that …
Keep Your Pool Deck Cooler During the Summer Heat
Are you tired of enduring the sweltering heat on your pool deck, especially for your little ones’ delicate feet, due to direct sun exposure all day? Well, you’re not alone. Pool designers always look for materials to keep the surface temperature cooler and combat heat. A pool deck is important in any swimming pool area, serving as functional and aesthetically …
Natural Stone for Pool Decking
If you’re considering improving your pool decking, natural stone decking can give it a stunning new look. Natural stone’s richness and inviting appearance can add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor areas. You can use the stone on your pool deck or even incorporate it into pool features like a firepit or water feature. Choosing a style and color …
Pool Tile Ideas
Tiles are an integral part of swimming pools. If you use them as a decorative border or to enhance a design, they are undoubtedly one of the materials that will last. However, it’s not so much the item that matters but the material that can have an impact. Tile Material Glass tiles are impervious to water and stains. They are …
Back to Basics – The Rectangular Pool
Rectangular pools are making a big comeback right now. The design is hard to beat for practicality, aesthetics, and space to enjoy the water. Here are some factors that make rectangular pools so popular. 1. They are effortless to swim in It may seem obvious, but a rectangular pool offers the perfect shape for swimming. It offers a long, unobstructed …
Selecting the Right Waterslide
Pools and playgrounds are the epitome of outdoor fun, when you combine the two, you have a formula for many fantastic summer memories. A visit to your local water park may seem like a fun family adventure, but we’ll let you in on a little secret! You do not need to leave your backyard to enjoy a pool slide. Like …
Pool Bridges
Some homeowners are turning their backyards into a relaxing retreat, allowing them to enjoy an outstanding, year-round vacation. A beautiful pool, gorgeous landscaping, and cozy outdoor decor are all part of a fantastic backyard. Why not take it further and build a bridge for your swimming pool? Swimming pool bridges are a fantastic way to round out a truly exotic …
Laminar Jets – A Fun Pool Feature
There are a wide selection of water features available, but it can be challenging to choose the right one, let alone decide which is best for your pool. Everyone wants a beautiful oasis, but adding layered visual elements or dimensions to pools and spas can be even more difficult. When it comes to swimming pools, the sound and sight of …
The Best Time to Use the Spa
You may already know that a spa has many uses that can benefit your health. To get the most out of your spa, you need to know why, how, and when to use your spa, how often you can use it, and create a routine that works best for you. Three Common Questions Regarding a Spa How Often Should I …
The Continuing Popularity of the Swim-Up Bar
For over sixty-eight years, the swim-up bar continues as one of the most popular pool features. What was once a grand feature in many hotels worldwide, and later for the rich and famous, is now available at residential homes. Many homeowners who have a pool may add an in-pool table and bar stools, while others may want the complete enchilada …
Automatic Pool Cover – Pros and Cons
In reality, most pool owners in Texas do not close their pools for the winter season. However, in the last two years, many have requested an automatic pool cover without considering the pros and cons it brings to an oasis. In most cases, the reason for purchasing such a cover is safety. Before requesting an automatic pool cover, we would like …
All-Weather Wicker Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture must be attractive and resistant to the elements in different seasons. An all-weather wicker is a great choice and one of the best materials for patio furniture. Today most outdoor wicker furniture is made from polyethylene resin. Polyethylene resin wicker resists the effects of UV rays, water, and snow. It makes a piece of great patio furniture that …
Heating Up Your Swimming Pool
Recently the weather has been quite inconsistent. But the reality is that Autumn is here and winter is fast approaching, and we have no idea of how the weather will be for the next three months. On the other hand, there is no reason why homeowners should stop using their pools. So, there is a possibility to enjoy a few …
Fire Pits – Another Great Feature
Who doesn’t enjoy sitting and looking at an open fire? Not only is it therapeutic, but it radiates warmth when you are outside while watching the sunset. Now that summer is over, and fall is in the air, the evenings feel cooler and darker. But you can still spend time in your backyard. One way to continue to enjoy fall …
The Best Materials for a Pool’s Hardscape
With a variety of pool area design options, plain concrete patios are a thing of the past. Homeowners can achieve a look that seamlessly fits their style, from natural bluestone to composite wood. For those preferring a concrete patio, stamped finishes and pavers can update this material and give it a more stylish look. Safety, durability, and aesthetics are the …
How to Cool the Water in Your Swimming Pool
There’s nothing like a pool to cool you off when the weather is hot. However, if your pool is too hot, it can be uncomfortable to swim in. Here are some tips on cooling your pool quickly and easily! Run the Filter at Night Most people enjoy swimming in the pool to cool off on a hot day. However, there …
Water Curtains
Water features are one of the most popular options to add to a pool. When deciding what features you want for your new backyard pool, you can choose from various pool design options. One of them is water curtains (rain descents). Water curtains, also known as “rain walls” or “rain descents,” continue to be a popular feature for modern pools. …
Sports Pools
Swimming pools are a versatile recreational and leisure product that everyone can benefit from. The shape, style, depth, and other factors determine whether the pool is suitable for a particular purpose, such as exercise, lap swimming, water sports, and children. If you are planning a backyard swimming pool, you’ll need to determine the best depth for your pool based on …
Pool Chiller – A Must-Have for a Swimming Pool
Never think that just because you do not have a pool heater, the water in your pool is naturally cool… that is an absolute myth! If your pool is exposed to the Texas sun, the water will likely be warm in the summer, especially if you have a darker-colored plaster. Hello, we are talking about swimming pools here, not spas. …
The Diving Board – An All-Time Pool Favorite
The diving board is a perfect, classic pool accessory. Many believe it is passé, but a diving board in your oasis can become an ideal playground for you and your family. If you or any of your family members are into sports, this pool accessory will come in handy. The construction of a diving board has materials such as fiberglass, …
Spillover Spas and its Benefits
Do you want to create a cozy, relaxing, and elegant oasis in your backyard? A spillover spa is a great way to do that. You can enjoy its therapeutic properties, soothe your worries, and enjoy the sound of calm and soothing water that will make you forget about everyday life. It can enhance your existing pool landscape and provide a …
Pool Safety in 2022
There is no question that certain safety features increase the value of an in-ground pool. Integrating new technologies will play a significant role for pool buyers considering which features to add to their list. There are more than a few intelligent safety features that will make your pool and spa a thoroughly enjoyable experience while providing you with peace of …
Pebble Interior Surfaces and its Advantages
Pebble interior surfaces continue to be a popular item in custom-built swimming pools. If you want an oasis in your backyard and less maintenance, a pebble plaster finishing is what your pool needs. Keep in mind that a pebble is more expensive than your typical pool plaster, but it has a longer lifespan. The surface does not absorb pool chemicals, …
The Difference Between a Spa and a Swim Spa
The healing powers of water continue to improve health and reduce pain. Water and spa therapies are now essential, especially for people with hectic lifestyles, and it offers an effective and natural way to relax and reduce stress. You can tailor your spa experience to your exact needs with ergonomic design and customizable therapies. The spa and a swim spa …
Dark Colored Pools – The New Trend
Building dark-colored pools inlay has become fashionable recently; a more comprehensive range of esthetic options for people looking for a pool that suits their property or personal taste. Depending on when you want to go swimming, the darkness of these pools can look more attractive. If you’re going to swim under the stars after dark, the dark gray or black …
Which Waterproof Smartwatches are Best?
Four years ago, we published content about waterproof smartwatches. At the time, the Apple Watch Series 3 and the Fitbit Versa were the only ones in the market. The rules for water protection are still the same. Any product declared as water-resistant must have a registration with the IEC60529 international code. In smartwatches, water-resistant timepieces must have the letters IP …
Ideal Pool Decks For Your Bare Feet
There is nothing more satisfying than having a swimming pool in a backyard. The water is refreshing, but the pool decks determines how fitting it is into the landscape and how safe it is for swimmers. A pool deck must secure an area to walk between pool ladders, slides, and diving boards. It should also provide a place for outdoor …
Staycation and the Swimming Pool
Everyone wants a stress-free vacation, it is what we dream of! However, making reservations, getting flight tickets, and getting a medical certificate that you are COVID-free can be strenuous. What we need is a staycation! What is a Staycation? According to many sources, a staycation describes a local vacation that requires little to no travel. In other words, you “stay” …
Plunge Pools and its Benefits
As space is an ever-challenging issue to fitting a swimming pool in a backyard, plunge pools are becoming a popular home item throughout the United States. Plunge pools offer a great alternative to a traditional full-sized swimming pool. What is a Plunge Pool? Plunge pools are small swimming pools that offer similar features to their full-sized counterparts but compact designs. …
Adding Statues to a Swimming Pool
When clients contact our offices, they usually already have an idea of what they want. Building a custom pool is not only about the shape that fits the backyard; it also includes the accessories homeowners desire to convert their backyard into the ultimate staycation. Amongst the popular features are waterfalls, mini jets, rain descents, raised walls and fire and water …
Pool Heaters vs Pool Heat Pumps Which One to Choose?
Whether it is a spanking-new swimming pool or an existing oasis, adding a heating system requires some research and having money upfront. Depending on multiple factors will decide whether you want a pool heater or a heat pump. But which is better suited for the climate of Southeast Texas? Which one is effective for a pool and spa combo? Let’s …
Safety Fences for Swimming Pools
Children are the ones who enjoy the pool the most. Therefore, safety must be the “number one” on the list of priorities, especially in a backyard with a swimming pool. It is a good idea to look around and make a list of the accessories that help to avoid accidents like a safety fence. No homeowner wants to go through …
Why Add a Spillway to a Spa?
Custom pools and spas convert an ordinary backyard into a high-end home resort. When requesting a spa, adding a spillway will add elegance and a relaxing element to an oasis. When adding a raised spa it becomes a gathering spot to hang out and an outdoor art piece by adding natural tiles, mosaic tiles, and coping. Some customers like to …
How Do Pool Sanitizers Work?
Have you ever wondered how pool sanitizers work? Well, to understand more about them, keep in mind that there are many different pool treatments available. It is always good to ask a pool professional, but let’s give you a lowdown of what is available, how it works, and each one’s pros and cons. What is a Pool Sanitizer? Pool sanitizers …
Including Pole Holders With Your Swimming Pool
Pool construction continues evolving as clients and homeowners request more accessories for their oasis. One accessory is the tanning shelf, and with it comes an in-pool umbrella to provide shade. It certainly looks cool. And for those who like to practice sports, adding a net to a swimming pool can bring hours of entertainment to kids and adults. Whether it …
Grottos and Waterfalls
Many homeowners want various pool features to enhance their backyard. Amongst those features grottos and waterfalls are very popular. But when the time comes to a decision, will it be one or the other? The Grotto Imagine having one of our grottos in a pool and the kids having a grand time. A grotto must fit the pool’s design, specifically …
Porcelain Pavers – An Alternative for Your Pool Decking
Porcelain Pavers have come a long way. What used to be exclusive for interior tiling for floors and walls, they are now excellent for outdoor areas. Homeowners want durability, stain resistance, and beauty. Now, creativity comes to play when designing an indoor-outdoor flow and other ways to use porcelain paving. Porcelain Paver Besides porcelain pavers’ technical and aesthetic properties, they …
Swimming Pool Scuppers
Water features bring beauty and excitement to a swimming pool. With so many features available, it all comes down to the imagination and preference of the homeowner when selecting which features you want to include with your pool. Scuppers are a popular request among future pool owners. Some scuppers range from simple to extreme designs. Scuppers give an impressive visual …
Intermatic Timers vs I-Aqualink Systems
A swimming pool is the ultimate recreational space at home, and like everything, it requires maintenance to keep its automation in optimal conditions. An intermatic timer is a device to run your filter system at set times each day. It helps the filtering process automatically at set times throughout the day. A homeowner can also set various features like LED …
Rolled Beam-Edge for Spas
If you are looking for a relaxing time in a spa, then consider including add a rolled edge. Sometimes a 90-degree coping can be uncomfortable when reclining in a spa, but it is the total opposite with a rolled edge. It is an art to designing a rolled-beam edge, and Platinum Pools’ designers can do just that. A rolled beam …
Options to Put on Raised Walls & Columns
Not so long ago, we published on the subject of raised walls and their functions on an oasis. Although most of the land in Southeastern Texas is flat, a raised wall can fill any void, such as slopes or elevated areas. When it happens, a homeowner must consider where your swimming pool should go. It can be at a high …
The Benefits of Having a Fire Pit
Outdoor living is where it is at these days. Homeowners are getting into building a swimming pool with the latest accessories, outdoor kitchens to entertain the family, a spa for relaxation, and enviable landscaping. Fire pits are also in high demand. So, what are the benefits of adding one in a backyard? Here are some reasons why you should include …
LED Lights – Adjust to any Pool and any Holiday
Homeowners get up to date with the decoration at their homes. So, what about changing the swimming pool lighting to led lights? Why Use LED Pool Lights? Last Longer: LED bulbs have a 50,000-hour duration. Bright Lights: They have a superior design and geometry lens that increase the intensity and color effects across the bottom of the pool. Pre-Set Colors: now, they have …
How to Select the Perfect Sized Spa
Many clients want a pool and spa to complete the outdoor experience. A spa can be adjacent to your pool, raised, or separate from your pool; the bottom line is that people want a spa to relax and relieve stress. Spas are a beautiful pool feature that can help keep your family healthy. Once a homeowner decides to live the …
Paver Decking Style & Pattern Options
Is your backyard getting a makeover? Remember that there are many options to consider, and you cannot forget the pool deck. There are many materials available, and one of them is Paver Decking. The advantage of getting a paver deck is the variety of patterns available, from modular paver patterns to more traditional laying patterns. Pavers also give you many …
How an Infinity-Edge Works?
When the infinity-edge pool became popular in the early 2000s, the feature became popular amongst homeowners who wanted to have a luxurious resort feel with their oasis. If the property is near a body of water, then the infinity-edge opens up to a new look to a backyard. Luxury Beginnings Modernist architect John Lautner began building swimming pools with a …