November 21, 2017 / Our Construction Process, Reese's Blog, Shotcrete

Shotcrete versus Gunite

Shotcrete versus Gunite

Inside the pool industry, there is a large debate revolving around the quality of Shotcrete versus Gunite installations. For those without industry knowledge, there is one differentiating factor between the two materials.

The difference is "when" the water is mixed with the cement material.

Gunite Application

Gunite applicators mix water with cement at the nozzle. This is a cheaper method because there is less mixing required and generates a rougher surface when sprayed onto the walls and floors.

Shotcrete Application

Shotcrete must be mixed at the mixing rig and requires more skill to ensure the proper consistency. We used shotcrete sub-contractors who work 100% of the time with this material and understand it better than anyone else.

The benefit of this method is a smooter wall that is more resilient and can be installed without using forms. It is very strong on curved surfaces and provides a great texture for the plaster to adhere to.

Our Verdict

We only use the Shotcrete method and have great stories from our customers to tell. This is a premium product for a premium pool and we wouldn't have it any other way!

November 21, 2017 / Reese's Blog, Tying Steel / Plumbing / Electrical

The Basics of Hydrodynamics

Ensuring the safety of all swimmers

In order to build you the highest quality swimming pool, we place a very large emphasis on the quality of our plumbing installations. As you might assume, the filtration system is the heartbeat of your pool and is the most critical part. It’s primary purpose is to keep the swimmers safe and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Establishing the correct turnover rate

Because hydrodynamics is so critical to health of your swimming pool, we must achieve the proper turnover rate. Turnover rate is defined as the amount of time required to fully circulate the water in your pool one time. For residential pools, this time frame is typically 8 hours.

Sizing our plumbing

One way that we can achieve a 8-hour turnover rate is increasing the size of our plumbing. We typically select 2″ plumbing for most of our installations and will advise you if larger size is required.

November 21, 2017 / Excavation, Reese's Blog

Gettin’ Dirty – Digging the Hole

Pool Excavation on a modern shape

Designing pools is fun and allows for creativity to take root. Shotcrete & Gunite pools are able to be designed in any shape and style. Homeowners love this benefit because it allows them to shape their pool based upon the features of their backyard.

In the example above, we dug this pool in an open area. This gave us a large amount of freedom to create additional curves, walls and seating arrangements.

Pool excavation is a quick process and typically is completed within one day. Although the process is quick, there a lot of detail for the crews and site manager.

November 21, 2017 / Initial On-Site Visit, Reese's Blog

Step One: Visualize the Canvas

Initial On-Site Visit

In order to design a concept for your pool, we must first assess the size, shape and characteristics of your backyard. This process typically takes 1-2 hours and requires for you to be home for Reese to ask questions and initiate some concepts.

This is your opportunity to provide us with your ideas and ambitions for what you would like to see happen. Often times our home owners are really excited about this step so this is always a fun interaction.

We like to bring spray paint with us to “sketch” out the pool shape in the grass and provide you with an idea of the layout prior to breaking ground.

November 18, 2017 / About Us

Our Long History

We have been building pools since 1973 and needless to say, if there were degrees in swimming pool construction we should have had a Bachelors, Masters & PhD by now.

Times have changed but the basics of hydro dynamics, pouring concrete and laying steel remain the same. The 21st Century has come around full circle and the pool industry has dawned to the era of Pool Automation, LED Lights, Ceramic Pavers, Robotic Cleaners and Top-Notch Chemicals.

We have stayed up to date on all of these emerging categories and will educate you on the newest backyard technologies when you visit with us

November 18, 2017 / About Us

Our Belief in Quality

At Titus County Pools, we believe in quality over all other aspects of building a pool or backyard landscape. We believe that superior products and installation techniques will trump a fast installation and cheap price every time.

We feel so strongly about this belief in quality that it has turned into a personal mission for our business.

Where this benefits our customers most is the longevity of their swimming pools. Our pools are guaranteed to last and are backed up by our the personal guarantee to respond to any customer need that may arise.