Beware of the sneaky, persistent black algae — Black algae can be a stubborn and dangerous problem for pool owners, it will try to take over your swimming pool! It hangs out in every nook and cranny it can find and loves both sunny days as well as chilling’ in shady spots. While normal sanitizers may not cut it on this adversary, don’t worry – there are special products designed especially for this tougher-than-normal kind of critter.

What is Black Algae?

Black Algae (or blue-green algae) are technically cyanobacteria. They are still considered a type of algae in the pool business. These species are not as common as green or mustard algae. Black algae form a protective layer that is highly chlorine resistant, so it needs to be penetrated for chlorine to effectively kill it. Enzymes can help soften this protective layer.

According to The University of California, Berkeley, cyanobacteria have the distinction of being the oldest known fossils at more than 3.5 billion years old. Besides being a living fossil, an added defense the bacteria possess is that they have an accessory cell wall of polymers. These secretions create a protective outer membrane. This outer layer allows them a greater level of resistance against chemicals we would typically use as algaecides and disinfectants. Colonization only adds additional layers of protection to the bacteria’s level of resistance to chlorine.

Black algae thrives in warm water with high levels of organic matter such as sweat and body oils from bathers. It also needs direct sunlight to survive, so if your pool has considerable shade or if you use a solar cover on your pool during the day, then you may have fewer problems with black algae. If your water levels aren’t falling within the recommended ranges, the bacteria typically enter the pool by other means, either objects or animals that have been contaminated, such as a toy or bathing suit that was recently in a natural body of water, or birds and lizards can also play a big role.

Black Algae can be Harmful

From all the types of algae’s that can grow in pools, Black algae is the worse, its presence promotes bacterial growth and attracts insects. This could mean you’re exposing yourself to bacteria like E.Coli and running the risk of developing a rash and other illnesses. It is best to play it safe and avoid swimming until your pool is algae-free.

How to Treat Black Algae?

Make sure that your filtration system is working properly and that all of your chemicals are balanced correctly, specially pH and Alkalinity. This will help keep the water clean and free of contaminants that could potentially lead to black algae growth. Below are a few tips that can help get rid of Black Algae.

Use Tablets Break a tablet in half and rub it directly onto the surfaces affected by black algae. This will help kill the roots and prevent it from growing back.

Beware of the sneaky, persistent black algae — Black algae can be a stubborn and dangerous problem for pool owners, it will try to take over your swimming pool! It hangs out in every nook and cranny it can find and loves both sunny days as well as chilling’ in shady spots. While normal sanitizers may not cut it on this adversary, don’t worry – there are special products designed especially for this tougher-than-normal kind of critter.

What is Black Algae?

Black Algae (or blue-green algae) are technically cyanobacteria. They are still considered a type of algae in the pool business. These species are not as common as green or mustard algae. Black algae form a protective layer that is highly chlorine resistant, so it needs to be penetrated for chlorine to effectively kill it. Enzymes can help soften this protective layer.

According to The University of California, Berkeley, cyanobacteria have the distinction of being the oldest known fossils at more than 3.5 billion years old. Besides being a living fossil, an added defense the bacteria possess is that they have an accessory cell wall of polymers. These secretions create a protective outer membrane. This outer layer allows them a greater level of resistance against chemicals we would typically use as algaecides and disinfectants. Colonization only adds additional layers of protection to the bacteria’s level of resistance to chlorine.

Black algae thrives in warm water with high levels of organic matter such as sweat and body oils from bathers. It also needs direct sunlight to survive, so if your pool has considerable shade or if you use a solar cover on your pool during the day, then you may have fewer problems with black algae. If your water levels aren’t falling within the recommended ranges, the bacteria typically enter the pool by other means, either objects or animals that have been contaminated, such as a toy or bathing suit that was recently in a natural body of water, or birds and lizards can also play a big role.

Black Algae can be Harmful

From all the types of algae’s that can grow in pools, Black algae is the worse, its presence promotes bacterial growth and attracts insects. This could mean you’re exposing yourself to bacteria like E.Coli and running the risk of developing a rash and other illnesses. It is best to play it safe and avoid swimming until your pool is algae-free.

How to Treat Black Algae?

Make sure that your filtration system is working properly and that all of your chemicals are balanced correctly, specially pH and Alkalinity. This will help keep the water clean and free of contaminants that could potentially lead to black algae growth. Below are a few tips that can help get rid of Black Algae.

Use Tablets Break a tablet in half and rub it directly onto the surfaces affected by black algae. This will help kill the roots and prevent it from growing back.

The bucket test it’s a simple and universal way to check if your pool is leaking.

Follow these steps to determine if your pool is leaking:

1. Adjust your pool water level to normal, this is typically mid-way on the mouth of the skimmer.
2. Use a 5-gallon bucket and fill it with pool water, about 3-4 inches from top of the pool water level.
3. Place the bucket on first or second step of the pool without submerging it.
4. With a marker or electrical tape, mark the water level inside of the bucket.
5. Turn the pool system off and mark the pool water level outside of the bucket.
6. Turn Pool system on.
7. Make sure that the auto fill valve is off during test.

After 24 hours, compare the two levels. If the pool water (outside mark) goes down more than the inside water level (inside mark), there may be a leak.

If it rains, repeat test when it stops raining.

The test is not valid after 24 hours.

Normal Evaporation

Evaporation will occur at the same rate regardless of the area of water. A bucket will lose a quarter inch of water as fast as a swimming pool loses a quarter inch of water.

A quarter inch of water loss per day is most likely to be evaporation. The evaporation rate in your area will depend on humidity, sunlight intensity, barometric pressure, wind, as well as the amount of use (swimmers) in the pool, spa or fountain.

If you’re looking to add some style, sophistication, and value to your home, one great option is hardscaping. A type of outdoor design that uses elements such as stone, brick, and concrete to create a stunning outdoor space. One of the most popular materials used in hardscaping is marble stone. Let’s take a look at why marble stone is so popularly used in hardscaping projects.

Durability and Strength

Marble stone is incredibly strong and durable. It has been used for centuries for everything from monuments to statuary to countertops due to its resistance to heat, cold, water damage and stains. When you incorporate marble into your hardscaping project it is sure to last for years without any problems or damage. This makes it an ideal choice if you are looking for something that will stand up against the elements without needing constant maintenance or repair.

Versatility

Marble also adds versatility when incorporated into your project thanks to its wide range of colors and textures. You can choose from classic white marble with subtle veining or bolder pieces with vibrant streaks of color running through them. No matter what type of look you are going for there is sure to be a type of marble stone that fits the bill perfectly!

Increased Home Value

Finally, incorporating marble stone into your project can also increase the value of your home as well as increase curb appeal. Marble stone looks timelessly elegant no matter what application it is used in which means it will always be in style no matter how long ago it was installed! So, if you’re looking for a way to boost the value of your home then adding some beautiful marble hardscaping is definitely worth considering!

Marble stone is an incredibly versatile material that can be used in all types of projects both indoors and out. When used in hardscaping projects it offers durability, strength, versatility, and beauty all rolled into one! Not only will it make a stunning addition to your outdoor space but it can also help boost the value of your home as well! So if you’re considering adding some hardscaping features consider using marble stone -you won’t regret it!

Pools can become dingy and dull if not properly maintained. One important part of pool maintenance is acid washing, which should be done every few years to keep your pool looking its best. But when is the best time to do an acid wash? Read on to find out what you need to know about this process and when it’s recommended that you do it.

When to Acid Wash a Pool?

It’s generally recommended that pools get an acid wash every three to five years, depending on the condition of the pool and the weather conditions in your area. For example, if you live in a particularly hot or humid climate where algae or other organic matter are more likely to thrive, then you may want to consider doing an acid wash more frequently than every five years. Additionally, if your pool has been neglected for an extended period of time, an acid wash will help restore its appearance.

What Does an Acid Wash Do?

An acid wash is essentially a deep cleaning for your pool that removes dirt and debris from the walls and floor of the pool as well as any calcium deposits that may have built up over time. It also removes any stains from paint, rust, or algae. All these things can make a pool look dull and dingy; however, by removing them with an acid wash, your pool will look brand-new again!

Benefits of An Acid Wash The primary benefit of an acid wash is improved aesthetics—your pool will shine bright like new! However, there are other benefits as well such as improved water circulation and better water chemistry balance due to removal of scale buildup from around the pipes and pump system. Additionally, an acid wash can extend the life of your pool’s surface since it helps remove any imperfections that can lead to further corrosion down the line. Finally, if you plan on selling your home anytime soon, having a freshly-acid washed pool can go a long way towards boosting curb appeal!

Conclusion: Acid washing pools is often overlooked but it’s actually one of the most important steps in proper maintenance for keeping your swimming hole sparkling clean! Not only does it make a huge difference aesthetically but it also provides many practical benefits as well such as improved water circulation and longer lasting surfaces due to removal of scale buildup. When done correctly (through professional help!) at least once every 3-5 years depending on climate conditions and usage levels – this simple process can give you great results! So don’t let another year go by without having your beloved swimming hole looking its best! Contact us today for more information about how we can help with all your needs in regards to maintaining a healthy swimming environment for everyone who uses it!

Tablets versus liquid chlorine are one of the most common topics when it comes to maintaining a properly sanitized swimming pool. While both are effective disinfectants, they have different usage methods, benefits, and drawbacks. In order to make an informed decision on which type of sanitizer best suits your needs, here are 10 things you need to know about using tablets vs. liquid chlorine in your pool:

1. Tablets are more convenient than liquid chlorine since you can use them with a floating dispenser or skimmer basket. This makes them easier to use and controls the amount of chlorine being added to the pool. On the other hand, liquid chlorine requires you to manually add it each time you want to sanitize your pool.
2. Tablets take longer than liquid chlorine to dissolve and take effect, so if you need quick sanitation then liquids may be the better choice for you.
3. Tablets are considered easier on swimmers’ eyes because they release less free chlorine into the water, making for a more comfortable swim experience for swimmers who may be sensitive or allergic to chemicals like chlorine.
4. Liquid chlorines tend to be cheaper than tablets in most cases, especially if you buy larger quantities at once from online suppliers or retail stores – this can help save money over time if done consistently!
5. Tablets often contain stabilizers such as cyanuric acid which helps protect chlorine from UV destruction by creating a protective layer around it so that it works more effectively and lasts longer in between applications – something that liquid doesn’t offer on its own!
6. Liquid chlorine can also be used with other chemicals such as algaecides and shock products, whereas tablets by themselves cannot be used with these other products due to their formulation restrictions (i.e., not all tablet brands are compatible with all types of chemicals).
7. Both tablets and liquid chlorines come in various forms such as granules, powder, or solutions depending on your preference; however, some prefer liquids because they don’t leave behind any residue in the pool, unlike granular forms which may accumulate over time at the bottom of your pool walls or filter system components!
8. When it comes to storage, liquid chlorines tend to have longer shelf life compared to tablets – which should generally be stored away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures – making them ideal for those who want their supplies ready at any given moment without having worry about expiration dates or degradation due humidity levels, etc.
9. When using either form of sanitizer (tablets/liquids), always remember safety first – wear protective eyewear while handling any form of chemical solutions, and never mix different types together unless instructed by professionals! This includes checking dosage instructions carefully before applying either type into your pool’s water supply so that your levels remain balanced throughout its lifecycle!
10. Lastly, when deciding between using either tablets or liquid chlorine for your pool maintenance needs remember that each option has its own advantages and disadvantages; it’s up to you to decide which route is best suited for YOUR specific needs & preferences as every situation is unique in its own way!

A pool bucket test is an essential step to take when diagnosing a pool leak. It is a simple and straightforward process that can help you determine whether or not your pool is leaking and, if so, the severity of the leak. Here are the steps to perform a pool bucket test:

1. Find a bucket that is large enough to hold at least five gallons of water. Fill it with water from your pool and make sure that it is an accurate measurement by using a ruler or marked measuring lines on the side of the bucket.
2. Mark the spot on your pool where your bucket will be placed. Measure how much water was in the bucket at this spot before placing it in the pool and make sure to record this number for later comparison.
3. Place the filled bucket into the marked spot on your pool and leave it there for 24-36 hours, making sure that no one swims while you’re conducting this test. It’s also important to ensure that there is no wind disturbing any surface waves during this time period as it could result in inaccurate measurements being taken.
4. After 24-36 hours, remove the bucket from its spot in the pool and measure how much water remains inside once again. If there has been significant evaporation during this time period (typically 1/4 inch per day), adjust your readings accordingly using surrounding environmental factors such as humidity or temperature, etc.
5. Compare your initial reading taken at step 2 with your final reading taken at step 4 to see what changes have occurred over this time period; if there has been more than a 1/4 inch difference between these two numbers then you may have a leak present in your pool system!
6. Keep track of all measurements taken throughout this process as they will be handy when calculating water loss due to leakage or evaporation over different periods of time (e.g.; days, weeks, etc.). Additionally, if you choose to seek professional assistance with regard to repairs – they may require some of these measurements initially prior to commencing work onsite!
7. If you believe that you do indeed have a leak present – there are various methods that can be used for further investigation including dye testing (whereby specific colored dyes are used to detect surface leaks) or pressure tests (using hydraulics) etc. Again, if seeking professional assistance – make sure to ask about their specific methodology prior to engaging them for service!
8. In order to prevent future losses caused by leaks – always ensure that any valves within your pipelines are closed properly and regularly check over pipe connections as well as joints beneath concrete surfaces (on an annual basis). Additionally, avoid running pumps continually on high-speed settings as these can put extra strain on existing seals & gaskets which could eventually lead to them breaking down over time!
9. Furthermore, consider investing in waterproofing measures such as sealants or primers applied directly onto pipes & fittings prior to installation – as this will help minimize potential losses caused by corrosion build-up due to transmission through ground moisture levels over an extended period of time!
10. Finally – don’t forget about regular maintenance & servicing schedules too! Make sure all filters & pumps are cleaned out periodically – ensuring debris doesn’t build up within suction lines which could cause blockages resulting in damage elsewhere within the system infrastructure (elevating repair costs). And finally – always keep an eye out for signs of wear & tear around skimming systems, particularly near return jets/outlets – Replace faulty parts ASAP so you don’t find yourself dealing with costly repairs down line!

Travertine stone is a beautiful and classic material that is often used for flooring, walls, countertops, and more. It’s easy to see why it is so popular—travertine has an elegant look that will never go out of style. But if you want your travertine stone to maintain its timeless beauty for years to come, it’s important to keep up with proper maintenance. Read on to learn about the best ways to maintain travertine stone for an attractive and well-protected home.

Cleaning Travertine Stone

The first step in preserving your travertine stone is knowing how to properly clean it. There are many products on the market specifically designed for cleaning travertine, but the best way to clean your stone is with a mild detergent and warm water. To avoid any damage due to harsh chemicals, avoid using strong soaps or abrasive cleaners on your travertine surfaces. For tough stains, you may need to use a mild acid like lemon juice or vinegar mixed with water. After cleaning your stone surface, be sure to rinse it thoroughly with warm water and then dry it off with a soft cloth or towel.

Sealing Travertine Stone

In order to protect your travertine from dirt and grime buildup over time, you should consider sealing it every 2-3 years (or as needed). This will ensure that the finish stays beautiful for many years without needing too much maintenance. Before sealing the travertine, make sure the surface has been cleaned thoroughly and allowed enough time (at least 24 hours) for any moisture present in the stone to evaporate completely. You should also make sure there are no visible cracks in the stone before applying sealer because this can lead to further damage down the line. Once you have applied one or two coats of sealer (depending on what type of sealer you choose), wait at least 6 hours before allowing anyone onto the surface of the stone so that the sealant can fully cure first.

Protecting Your Travertine Stone

In addition to regular cleaning and sealing, there are other steps you can take when caring for your travertine surfaces in order to protect them from damage: be mindful of sharp objects coming into contact with your stone surfaces as they can easily scratch or chip them; try not exposing your travertine surfaces too often too direct sunlight as this can cause discoloration; use mats near doorways leading outside so that dirt does not get tracked onto your stones; clean up spills immediately; lastly, remember never use bleach on travertines since this can cause lasting damage!

Travertine stone adds an elegant touch of sophistication wherever it’s placed in the home and with proper maintenance, it will stay looking great for years! A few simple steps such as regular cleaning using only mild detergents and warm water; sealing every 2-3 years (or as needed); avoiding sharp objects coming into contact with it; not exposing it too often too direct sunlight; using mats near doorways leading outside; cleaning up spills immediately; and never using bleach on travertines are all essential when caring for this classic material! With these tips in mind you’ll have nothing stopping you from enjoying beautiful traversed surfaces throughout your home!