Optical Illusions

Published

on

By

One of the great things we love about mosaic tile in luxury swimming pools is the artistic versatility of the material. It’s a notoriously difficult medium to work with, but artisans are able to design incredibly sophisticated optical illusions in the pool with tile mosaics.

Designing an artistic mosaic that utilizes the entire canvas of the swimming pool takes real skill. The elites of the industry are adept at using tile as their preferred medium to paint a portrait that tells a story. One industry-recognized tile artisan who has mastered the ability to do just that is Ray Corral of Mosaicist, Inc. The Miami-based firm has built a reputation for designing stunning mosaic tile pool interiors.

Collaborating with high-end builders and designers like Brian Van Bower and Ryan Hughes, Corral is used to working on luxury custom pools that require his particular skillset. His ability to create transcendent designs that draw you into the pool interior is undeniable.

Creating optical illusions in the pool is something that’s second nature for Corral. “I’ve come to realize that a lot of the simple things we do grab attention and people are just taken back by it. www.caasimada.net We take it for granted because we’ve done so many designs. Sometimes what we think is amazing because of the complexity, people don’t always understand and appreciate,” said Corral.

While most of the mosaic tile interiors Corral designs these days are for modern geometric-shaped pools, he still does a fair amount of freeform pool interiors. In South Florida, mosaic seascapes are popular and Corral caters to that clientele looking to turn their pool interior into a tropical lagoon.

This particular project showcases Corral’s abilities at creating optical illusions with mosaic tile. From the intricate waves in the sand to the ocean scene inside the pool, creating those types of visual effects is definitely something that not every tile firm can easily master.

“When we look at the sand it looks real,” said Corral, “These clients wanted a realistic environment. They have tropical landscaping, bridges, landscaping inside the pool that just creates this type of oasis. They want to look outside their window and see coral reefs, fish, and aquatic animals,” he explained.

“There are folks that are close to the ocean, or the ocean is in their hearts, or they’re into diving, whatever the case may be. A lot of these people want scenery in their pool and we just to try to create them something realistic,” said Corral.

“When we put a design together we take into account that the reality of that fact is that most of the time the homeowner will be looking at the pool and not necessarily swimming in it. We take into consideration how the design looks from the second floor, first floor and when you enter the pool,” Corral explained.

“We also take into account the depth of the pool and the transition from the shallow end to the deep end,” said Corral. It’s in the planning and design of the elements that will comprise the entire scene, that he spends an inordinate amount of time going over with customers who want a pool interior of this nature.

“Many times homeowners are looking through our Instagram or our website or the books we have in our office to help them pick out elements to add to their swimming pool,” said Corral.

Designing the client’s ideal tropical fantasy in mosaic tile can be difficult on freeform style pools. Corral indicated that the shape of these pools is extremely difficult to work with and requires a certain level of planning and dexterity to properly execute. It seems to be old hat for him though. Planning an all-mosaic tile beach entry pool that transforms into a tropical lagoon in this fashion is something his firm Mosacist, Inc. does at least several times a year.

“What’s difficult is on these designs is that the closer that you get to the walls, the more attention to detail you need to have. It’s very easy for a designer to do a circle and have that manufactured somewhere else, but it’s difficult to design a concept that hugs the walls this way and have it come out well.”

Designing gorgeous seascape mosaics for the pool isn’t Corral’s only wheelhouse. He showed us other breathtaking examples including a mosaic tile aquarium he installed for one of his customers From the 3D rendering to the real-world product, it’s incredible the amount of detail that’s involved to achieve these types of optical illusions.

To plan, design, and install all of the unique elements that will comprise a total scene, you can easily see how many individual mosaics are required to create effects of this nature. It’s an old world artisan skill and one that Corral has honed over his years in the tile industry.

A post shared by Mosaicist Inc (@mosaicist)

“We’re always looking for that one client that wants us to do something we’ve never tried before,” said Corral, “We get excited when clients allow us to do something different. It gives our portfolio diversity and keeps us at the top of the industry.”

Listen to our entire conversation with Ray Corral of Mosaicist, Inc.

Photo Credits: Mosaicist, Inc.

7 Elegant Modern Pool Designs

Pool Vinyl Liner Replacement – Give Your Pool a Makeover

Editor in Chief of Pool Magazine - Joe Trusty is also CEO of PoolMarketing.com, the leading digital agency for the pool industry. An internet entrepreneur, software developer, author, and marketing professional with a long history in the pool industry. Joe oversees the writing and creative staff at Pool Magazine.To contact Joe Trusty email [email protected] or call (916) 467-9118 during normal business hours. For submissions, please send your message to [email protected]

Jimmy Reed on Preventing Pool Tile Failures

Choosing The Right Pool Tile Materials

ONIX Shows New Glass Mosaics Inspired by Nature at COVERINGS Tradeshow

This Pool Contractor Is Taking Her Skills To The Next Level

Preventing Failures in Glass Tile Installations – What Are The Pros Using?

Jimmy Reed Is One Of The Elite

Published

on

By

Recently a video of Tieleman Pool Technology went absolutely viral with over 13 million views on Pool Magazine’s TikTok and over 14 million views on Tieleman’s Instagram account. The video showed a residential movable floor of 8.80 x 5.65m (28.87 x 18.54ft) in an indoor pool located in the United Kingdom. “We know we are engineering and installing a unique product that we felt would amaze many people, but we never imagined it would blow up like this,” says Marijn, Project Manager of the Netherlands-based manufacturer Tieleman Pool Technology.

A post shared by Tieleman | Movable pool floors (@tielemanpooltechnology)

Just one of the many comments given to the video of the movable floor. Of course, going viral with a video like this will lead to getting countless questions. Questions such as where does the water go when you lower the floor, what system is beneath the movable floor deck and much more. Below you will find some of the most frequently asked questions answered.

The movable floor is a safe and rigid floating platform controlled by means of a push button, touch screen or a mobile device. When you push the button to lower the floor, the water hydraulic cylinder pulls the movable floor underwater. When the floor is moved, the water will gently flow through the small gap between the floor and the pool wall (so the water always remains in the pool). Within about five minutes your swimming hall, patio or living space is transformed into a full-size swimming pool.

When you want to raise the floor to a higher position, the cylinder pressure is released in a controlled way and the floor will rise automatically as a result of the upward pressure caused by the integrated buoyancy.

The bearing capacity of a movable floor starts at a minimum of 100kg per m2 (220lbs per 10.76 ft2). This makes the safe floor deck in a closed position extremely suitable to serve as a patio, party venue or extension of the indoor/outdoor living space.

A hatch is made in the construction of the movable floor, the tile located above the hatch can be removed. This allows Tieleman’s service technicians (who are A-1 certified divers) to dive under the movable floor. This way they can easily vacuum the bottom of the pool and inspect and maintain the movable floor system properly.

If your question is not answered here you should definitely check Tieleman’s FAQ page to learn more about the fundamentals of a movable floor.

A movable floor, as it might suggest, is a product that belongs in the category of ultimate luxury. While the videos are becoming increasingly popular on social media, and homeowners might be wondering if they can have one of their own; this is still a pool feature reserved for the elite. This is not surprising when you consider the level of engineering and high quality materials it takes to manufacture and install this kind of product.

You might not be expecting it, but the product has actually been on the market for quite a long time. For example, Tieleman Pool Technology has been developing customized pool solutions since 1970. To this day, the movable floor has been especially common for hydrotherapy purposes in medical institutions such as rehabilitation clinics, healthcare facilities and hospitals. In order to achieve optimal results with hydrotherapy, variation in depth is the key factor for success. To meet this specific need of the medical sector, the movable floor was developed back in the days.

Over the years, the product has evolved into a state-of-the-art pool solution that is not only suitable for medical institutions, but has also made its way into the public and residential market. Technology has been highly improved and there are countless add-on options for movable floors nowadays. These include integrated stairs (corner stairs, full width stairs and more), integrated sun decks/lounge areas and swim-out benches.

There are, of course, plenty of DIY videos of movable floors and other pool solutions. But what should a proper movable floor consist of if it wants to guarantee quality, a long lifespan and low maintenance?

First of all the construction beneath the floor deck must be resistant to corrosion and chlorides. That is why the unique Tieleman movable floor system, in contrast to others, consists of a Marine grade 316L stainless steel construction. For applications with highly corrosive environments, such as swimming pools, Marine grade 316L stainless steel is far superior and will have an extended lifespan compared with 304 grade. This is because Marine grade 316L stainless steel contains high levels of nickel, chromium and molybdenum. The molybdenum is added to protect the stainless steel from the elements such as chlorine and increases corrosion resistance, making this type of steel extremely suitable for use in swimming pools.

Secondly, no oil contamination of the pool can take place. Therefore the unique Tieleman system is powered by a water hydraulic cylinder. This technology eliminates the risk of (oil) contamination to the pool. And last but not least, Tieleman offers excellent service. At Tieleman, we can proudly state that we have been the preferred service provider for decades for our client base. With over 50 years of expertise in all areas of pool technology, Tieleman is your best choice to service your movable floor, says Koen, Marketing & Communications manager at Tieleman.

All the above makes a Tieleman movable floor an extremely durable system with a lifespan of up to 25-30 years.

The most interesting part for pool builders is that a movable floor not only ensures ultimate safety, it also provides the versatility to create unique pool environments that are multi-use spaces. For example, you can use the floor deck (in a closed position) as a basketball court or even a party venue. This is perhaps the most appealing aspect for pool builders.

Since companies that manufacture, install and maintain movable floors generally do not build the pool itself, this offers excellent business opportunities for pool builders and others. For example the construction of the pool, the water treatment and the tiling of the movable floor needs to be done by a (local) contractor or pool builder. This is most definitely the right time for high-end pool builders, architects and contractors to make their move by partnering with a movable floor builder like Tieleman.

Thinking of buying a DIY above ground pool and performing your own pool installation? There are a few things you should know first.

Published

on

By

DIY above-ground pools are an affordable way to beat the heat during the hot summer months. An above-ground pool kit can seem like a great idea for those who want to save money and take on a fun DIY project. However, there are hidden drawbacks to purchasing an above ground pool that many people overlook. From installation to maintenance, novice pool owners may find themselves in over their heads with the cost and upkeep of their pool.

Quite often, the truth is that the all-in price of an above-ground pool is quite more expensive than most consumers realize, at least if you’re going to go with a standard above-ground pool kit and try to finish it with a deck and upgraded equipment. Tack on installation and the costs can really add up quickly.

The cost of an average above-ground pool kit depends on its size, shape, and material. The cost also varies based on whether you purchase a basic or a more upscale model.

While the basic equipment that comes with the pool kit may be sufficient, you may want to consider upgrading to a better-quality pump and filter. Upgraded equipment can provide better circulation and filtration, which can help keep the water clean and clear.

Adding a pool deck can provide a more attractive and functional space for lounging and entertaining. The cost of the deck depends on its size, materials, and design.

Installing an above-ground pool requires leveling the ground, assembling the pool kit, and connecting the pool equipment. The cost of installation depends on the complexity of the project and the contractor’s fees. Ultimately, the total cost of the average above-ground pool project, including the pool kit, upgraded pool equipment, deck, and installation, would be between $9,600 and $25,500. Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on your location and a myriad of other factors.

Installation is the first hurdle to overcome with a DIY above-ground pool. While the pool may come with instructions, there are still many things that could go wrong during your installation. For example, the ground may not be level, or the pool liner may be tricky to install, leading to needing a professional installation or costly repairs if you accidentally tear it while trying to install it yourself. In addition, some homeowners may not realize they need to obtain permits before installing a pool, which can lead to legal problems down the line, that’s exactly what happened to one homeowner in New York.

“I didn’t realize I needed a permit to install an above-ground pool in my backyard, and when the city found out, I was forced to take it down. It was a costly mistake that I wish I had avoided,” said Kevin Younger of Long Island.

After purchasing a DIY above-ground pool kit online and all the necessary materials, Kevin found that the final cost of installation was much higher than he anticipated. In fact, his above-ground pool installation cost him close to $12,500 all-in.

“I never thought installing an above-ground pool in my backyard could lead to such trouble. One day, a county inspector showed up with a fine and an order to take down the pool,” said Younger, “it turns out a neighbor must have reported me, and I had no idea that I needed a permit to install it. It was a really expensive lesson to learn.”

The biggest problem with DIY pools comes after installation. Once the pool has water in it, the real work begins: maintenance. Many novice pool owners are ill-equipped to balance and clean their pool. Keeping the water clean and safe requires a lot of effort and expense. Chemicals, skimmers, vacuums, and filters are all necessary to maintain a healthy pool. If the pool is not properly maintained, it can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria, algae, and other harmful organisms.

“I thought I could save money by maintaining my above-ground pool myself, but I soon learned that I’m no pool expert. I spent the better part of the summer trying just to keep it from turning green,” said Dallas, TX pool owner, Beth Pompano.

“The filtration equipment that came with my above-ground pool kit was very basic and we decided to upgrade it after the first week,” said Pompano, “it came with a small pump and a filter that didn’t do a very good job. We wound up upgrading to a Pentair pump and sand filter. That was an added cost but we noticed an immediate improvement right away.”

Underperforming pool equipment can result in poor water quality and the need for constant cleaning. In Beth’s case, upgrading the filtration equipment was costly, and she paid several thousand dollars. “The plumbing and electrical needed to be redone to accommodate the upgraded equipment, that was definitely an unexpected kick in the pants. Then we added a pool deck which was yet another cost.” said Pompano.

Vinyl liners in above-ground pools generally last 6-10 years before needing replacement, although this can vary based on factors such as the quality of the liner, the level of maintenance, and the amount of use. Signs that a liner needs to be replaced include fading, cracks, tears, or wrinkles that cannot be smoothed out.

The cost of replacing a vinyl liner in an above-ground pool varies depending on factors such as the size of the pool, the quality of the liner, and the cost of labor in the area. On average, the cost of a new liner and installation can range from $1,500 to $3,000 or more. However, a DIY installation can lower the cost if you have the necessary skills and equipment.

Finally, there are hidden costs associated with pool maintenance. Many homeowners assume that the cost of chemicals and equipment is all they will need to pay. However, weekly service is recommended to ensure the pool stays clean and balanced. This can still cost about $180 a month for basic chemical maintenance. These costs can quickly add up, making a DIY above-ground pool less of a bargain than it may seem.

Despite the hidden drawbacks of purchasing and installing an above-ground pool, homeowners continue to be eager to build their own backyard oasis. The DIY pool market typically sees a spike starting at the beginning of the pool season, and this summer is predicted to be no exception.

With the right knowledge, planning, and budget, homeowners can still successfully install and maintain their own above-ground pool. Still, it’s important to research local regulations and obtain the necessary permits before beginning installation. Make sure you’re installing on level ground and have equipment up to the task of adequately filtering your pool. Homeowners should also be prepared for the added costs of materials, equipment, and ongoing maintenance.

Feature Photo Credit: PoolCost.com

A pool renovation can be an exciting project but can quickly turn into a disaster without the right planning and preparation.

Published

on

By

Renovating a pool can be an exciting project. A well-executed pool renovation can breathe new life into your backyard, create a more enjoyable swimming experience, and add value to your property. However, if not planned and executed properly, a pool remodel can quickly become a complete disaster. From skyrocketing costs to shoddy workmanship, there are a number of things that can go wrong.

Thoroughly planning your pool renovation project before you begin is crucial to its success. Without proper planning, the project can quickly become overwhelming and lead to unexpected issues, delays, and budget overruns. A well-planned renovation project, on the other hand, ensures that all aspects of the project are considered, allowing you to make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips on how to prevent your pool renovation from becoming a complete disaster.

The first step to a successful pool renovation is to plan everything out in advance. Start by making a list of everything you want to accomplish with your renovation. Do you want to add new features like waterfalls or hot tubs? Do you want to replace old pool equipment or resurface the pool? Write down all of your goals and prioritize them.

Once you have a list of goals, it’s time to start planning the details. This includes creating a budget, hiring a pool contractor, and determining a timeline. Be sure to get multiple quotes from different contractors, and make sure that they are all licensed and insured. Don’t rush the planning process – taking the time to do it right will save you headaches and money in the long run.

When renovating your pool, it’s important to consider the overall design of your backyard. Your pool should complement the existing landscaping and outdoor living space. This will help create a cohesive look and add value to your home.

If you’re not sure what design will work best for your backyard, consider consulting with a landscape architect or pool designer. They can help you create a custom design that meets your needs and complements your home’s style.

Before starting any renovation work, it’s important to address any underlying issues with your pool. This includes fixing any leaks, repairing cracks in the pool’s structure, and addressing any plumbing or electrical issues.

If you don’t address these issues before starting your renovation, they can quickly turn into bigger problems, leading to additional costs and delays in your renovation timeline.

Before starting any pool renovation project, it’s important to set a realistic budget. That’s one of the most important do’s and don’ts of pool remodeling. This will help you avoid overspending and ensure you’re able to complete the project without running out of money. When setting your budget, be sure to factor in the cost of materials, labor, and any unexpected expenses that may arise.

It’s also important to prioritize your renovation needs. If your budget is limited, focus on fixing any safety issues or structural damage first. Cosmetic upgrades can be done later when you have more funds available.

Before starting any pool renovation work, you need to make sure you have all the necessary permits. Building codes vary by state and county, so it’s important to check with your local government to find out what permits you need.

If you fail to obtain the necessary permits, you may be subject to fines and could be forced to stop work on your renovation until you have obtained them. Additionally, not having the proper permits can affect your homeowner’s insurance coverage, leaving you liable in case of accidents or damages.

One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make during a pool renovation is trying to cut corners to save money. While it’s important to stay within your budget, trying to save money by using inferior materials or hiring unlicensed contractors can be a recipe for disaster. In the end, you may end up spending more money to fix the mistakes made by these shortcuts.

If you want your pool renovation to be a success, be willing to invest in quality materials and hire experienced professionals. This may mean spending more money up front, but it will save you money and headaches down the line.

When planning your pool renovation, it’s important to research the materials and equipment that you plan to use. Don’t just rely on the recommendations of your contractor – do your own research and make informed decisions. This includes researching the pros and cons of different types of pool finishes, pool heaters, pumps, and filters.

Following the latest trends is smart, but don’t be swayed by gimmicks. Stick to tried and true materials and equipment that are known to work well. This will help ensure that your pool renovation is a success and that you don’t end up with equipment that needs constant repairs or replacement.

Communication is key when it comes to a successful pool renovation. Make sure that you communicate clearly with your contractor from the start. Discuss your goals and expectations, and make sure that they understand what you want to accomplish with your renovation.

Throughout the renovation process, continue to communicate with your contractor. Ask questions and provide feedback, and make sure that they are keeping you informed of progress and any issues that arise. If you notice something that doesn’t look right, speak up and address it immediately.

No matter how well you plan, there will always be unexpected issues that arise during a pool renovation. This could be anything from weather or equipment delays to unforeseen plumbing issues. Be prepared for these unexpected issues by building in extra time and money into your budget.

Additionally, be willing to be flexible with your renovation plans. If something unexpected comes up that requires a change in plans, be willing to adjust your plans accordingly. This will help ensure that your pool renovation stays on track and doesn’t become a complete disaster.

The key to a successful pool renovation is taking your time and doing things right. Rushing the renovation process can lead to mistakes, oversights, and even accidents that can compromise the quality of the work and result in additional costs and delays.

Before starting your renovation, take the time to plan out all the details, including the scope of the work, your budget, and your timeline. Rushing into a renovation without a clear plan can lead to unexpected issues that can quickly spiral out of control.

Marcus Weekes from Premier Pools & Gardens in Brisbane explains that pool renovation projects are a common undertaking for homeowners. He mentions several common projects that homeowners usually choose, including installing new tile and coping, waterline tile, custom interiors, pool lighting, filtration improvement, and equipment relocation.

Renovating tile and coping involves replacing old, worn-out tiles and coping with new ones to give the pool a fresh look. Another popular option is replacing the waterline tile that runs around the perimeter inside of the pool. Homeowners typically will choose between glass and ceramic mosaic tiles to enhance the pool’s appearance.

Many pool owners will opt for custom surface interiors. In Australia where Weekes is located, they use Pebblecrete. Here in the U.S. you’re more likely to use Pebbletec. Whichever you opt for, that type of glass beading is used to give the pool a unique and sparkling look.

Weekes suggests that adding pool lighting or upgrading to LED lighting can also provide a more vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, especially during nighttime swimming.

He also notes that a pool renovation is an opportune time to improve your pool’s filtration. This can involve replacing old filters or adding new pool equipment to improve the pool’s water quality. Equipment relocation may be necessary if the pool equipment is causing noise or visual distractions.

Overall, homeowners can choose from a variety of different renovation projects to upgrade their pool’s appearance and functionality. From small changes like adding lighting to larger projects like custom interiors, these renovations can make a significant difference in the overall enjoyment of the pool. How much your pool remodeling project will cost ultimately boils down to the materials and contractor you choose.

Renovating your pool is a significant investment in your home and your family’s enjoyment, and it’s essential to take the process seriously. Rushing into a renovation without careful planning and execution can lead to a variety of issues, including unexpected costs, delays, and even safety hazards. On the other hand, a well-executed renovation can transform your backyard into a beautiful and functional space that adds value to your home.

Perhaps the most critical takeaway in this entire article to preventing your pool renovation from becoming a disaster is to work with a reputable and experienced contractor. Finding the right contractor can be a daunting task, but it’s crucial to take the time to research and interview potential candidates. Look for contractors who have a track record of success in pool renovation and who are licensed, insured, and bonded. Additionally, it’s essential to check references, read online reviews, and ask for a detailed proposal that outlines the scope of work, materials, and costs. By working with a trustworthy contractor, you can ensure that your pool renovation is completed on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction.

The final important takeaway to achieving a successful pool renovation is to plan thoroughly and communicate clearly. This includes identifying your goals and priorities, setting a realistic budget, and creating a detailed timeline for the project. It’s also important to be flexible and open to changes as the project progresses, as unexpected issues can arise that require adjustments to the plan. By working closely with your contractor and communicating regularly, you can stay informed about the progress of the renovation and address any concerns or issues promptly. In the end, a well-planned and executed pool renovation can enhance your home’s value and your family’s enjoyment of your outdoor space for years to come.

Arkansas Woman Finds a Hidden Pool Under Her Floorboards

2023 Prime Day Pool Deals

Bad Pool Etiquette – Bikini Clad “Karen” Loses It At Pool

The Splash Runner Motorized Pool Float Will Make Your Summer

Banned For Life – Olympus Pools Owner Agrees To AG Settlement

Nidec Expands Neptune® Pool Pump Motor Line With New Option For Large Pools

It’s National Swimming Pool Day, So Let’s Celebrate!

California Man Dies While Cleaning Pool During Intense Heatwave