26 Feb

2024’s Hottest Inground Pool Trends

by splashpools /   Lifestyle, Luxury Pools, Pool Design, Pool Ownership / 0 comments

A pool has always been about more than swimming. It’s a place to gather, entertain, and relax.   What you add to your pool enhances everyone’s experience. With that in mind, you want pool features that make a big difference in creating a distinctive...

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5 Dec

Debunking Myths about Fiberglass Pools

by splashpools /   Luxury Pools, Pool Design, Pool Maintenance, Pool Ownership, Splash Pool & Spa Products, Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

    Have you heard some gossip about fiberglass pools? The Splash Pool & Spa team is here to debunk several myths floating around about these amazing pools! We’re a big fan of fiberglass, so let’s set the record straight.     1) Popping...

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6 Nov

7 Questions for Planning Your Fiberglass Pool Project

by splashpools /   Lifestyle, Luxury Pools, Pool Design, Pool Ownership, Splash Pool & Spa Brands, Splash Pool & Spa Products, Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

Thinking about a fiberglass pool for next year? The best time to plan your project is now – when the leaves are start to turn and the holidays are around the corner. Use the fall and early winter season to anticipate construction needs and...

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12 Jul

How to Clean a Pool Cartridge Versus a Sand Filter

by splashpools /   Health, Lifestyle, Pool Maintenance, Pool Ownership, Pool Safety, Splash Pool & Spa Brands, Splash Pool & Spa Products / 0 comments

Your pool filter is working hard rain or shine to keep your water crystal clear. It’s time to show it some love! A little routine maintenance will help it do its job. Whether you have a cartridge or a sand filter, we have easy...

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15 Jun

3 Steps to Evaluate Pool Chemical Quality

by Weston Darling /   Splash Pool & Spa Products, Water Quality / 0 comments

Did you know that the quality of pool and hot tub chemicals varies wildly? It can be confusing to know how to shop for the right formulas. And we get it! Water quality treatments are totally different from household chemicals like laundry detergent or...

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15 Apr

Fiberglass Pools: 7 Features That We Love

by Weston Darling /   Splash Pool & Spa Brands, Splash Pool & Spa Products / 0 comments

Despite our start in custom concrete pool construction over 25 years ago, we’ve grown fond of fiberglass pools in recent years. Our customers have too! These one-piece pools offer fast installation, great maintenance, and gorgeous aesthetics. But what really makes us excited is all...

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15 Mar

How to Properly Maintain Your Automatic Pool Cover

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Pool Ownership / 0 comments

Automatic pool covers are such an amazing feature. With the click of a button, they glide over your water and shield it from debris. To keep your automatic cover in great shape for years to come, use our maintenance checklist.  Clean tracks on a...

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15 Jan

Three New Fiberglass Pools from Barrier Reef

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design, Splash Pool & Spa Brands / 0 comments

New year, new pools! We are so excited that our fiberglass pool provider, Barrier Reef, has released three new models for 2023. One is brand new and two are expansions of existing options, all in six fantastic colors. Each one has standard features like...

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15 Dec

Do’s and Don’ts for New Pool Plaster

by Weston Darling /   Pool Ownership / 0 comments

The excitement of a new pool is an incredible feeling. For a lifetime of enjoyment, there’s a critical period in the first 30 days when you need to maintain your fresh pool plaster. These steps, especially brushing twice a day, will keep your plaster...

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15 Oct

3 Reasons To Love Fiberglass Pools

by Weston Darling /   Pool Ownership, Splash Pool & Spa Products / 0 comments

Have you considered a fiberglass pool? Although we started as custom concrete pool builders, we have come to love fiberglass pools too! Fiberglass is a durable material that is used for insulation, bathtubs, and boats. Its amazing structural properties are perfect for pools too....

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15 Sep

How To Determine Your Pool Deck Size

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design / 0 comments

An essential part of your pool design is the decks. Typically made from concrete or pavers, this patio provides a relaxing lounge spot. The square footage of the pool decking is ultimately determined by your design vision. Consider how these four factors will impact...

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15 Jul

Maintaining Proper Pool And Spa Calcium Levels

by Weston Darling /   Water Quality / 0 comments

Do you have calcium concerns? No, we aren’t talking about nutrition but water chemistry! Calcium is a mineral that is common in Iowa tap water. If you’ve ever scrubbed hard water scale, you know how frustrating calcium deposits are. In pools and spas, unbalanced...

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31 May

3 Decorative Designs for Concrete Pool Decks

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design / 0 comments

No pool is complete without its deck! It’s the perfect place to lounge by the water on your favorite patio furniture. It also forms a splash zone away from your landscaping and house. Concrete is the go-to material because it’s durable, readily available, and...

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15 May

Pool Opening Staples To Have On Hand

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Pool Ownership / 0 comments

Hello summer! We are all about the warmer weather and sunny days. And there’s no better way to celebrate the season than a relaxing dip in the pool. Before you hop in, stock up on these six staples. Read on or watch our Splashy...

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15 Mar

Converting A Vinyl Liner Pool To Concrete

by Weston Darling /   Pool Ownership, Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

If your vinyl pool liner is at the end of its life, is it time to consider converting your vinyl pool to concrete? We’ve heard this question many times. Concrete pools with a shotcrete shell have a longer life, lower maintenance, and more design...

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31 Jan

The Benefits of Saltwater Pools

by Weston Darling /   Pool Ownership, Water Quality / 0 comments

Did you know you can have a saltwater pool? Contrary to popular belief, these pools aren’t filled with ocean water. Instead, they use a saltwater generator to create chlorine right in your own backyard. All you need is salt and electricity! No more having...

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30 Nov

What’s On Your Pool Wishlist?

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design, Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

Building your own custom pool is a dream come true. There are so many amazing features that will create your perfect backyard escape. If you love home renovation and interior design shows, you are going to have so much fun pouring over every detail...

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31 Oct

Concrete vs. Fiberglass Swimming Pools

by Weston Darling /   Splash Pool & Spa Products, Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

Ready to build a new swimming pool and torn between concrete and fiberglass? You are not alone! Both types of in-ground pools are popular among our customers here in Iowa. There are many similarities that make either a great option. They share the same...

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30 Sep

4 Types of Pool Decks

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design, Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

Your backyard swimming pool is a true oasis. One of the defining elements of this aquatic escape is your pool deck. The hardscaped area is the perfect zone for your favorite poolside activities. It’s where you lounge in the sun, relish the shade of...

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15 Jul

How to Backwash Your Pool Filter

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance / 0 comments

Have you thanked your pool filter lately? This equipment works hard every day to keep your pool water crystal clear and safe to enjoy. Getting dirty is its job! But all that captured debris and dirt has to be removed periodically. That’s why you...

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30 Jun

A Guide to Non-Stabilized vs. Stabilized Chlorine

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Water Quality / 0 comments

Did you know there is more than one type of chlorine for your pool? There are actually two ways to add sanitizer to your water: stabilized chlorine or non-stabilized chlorine. It’s always smart to know how to use different chemical products to protect your...

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15 Jun

How Phosphates Affect Pool Water

by Weston Darling /   Pool Ownership, Water Quality / 0 comments

Safe pool water begins with good chemistry. That’s why we want to introduce you to phosphates – a type of mineral salt that affects your pool water quality. Because it’s a food source for algae, it can create a number of problems in your...

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31 May

Maximize Your Chlorine with Ozone and UV

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Pool Ownership, Water Quality / 0 comments

Ozone and UV, isn’t that stuff in our stratosphere? Yes, but these invisible forces can also be harnessed to clean your pool water! An ozone or UV system is a great way to supplement your chlorine needs, extending the life of your chemicals. It’s...

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30 Apr

3 Ways to Maximize Your Pool Chlorine

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Water Quality / 0 comments

Chlorine is the single most important way to clean your pool water. This chemical defense neutralizes pathogens, such as “bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, as well as germs that cause viruses such as diarrhea and swimmer’s ear” (American Chemistry Council). Chlorine even helps...

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15 Apr

5 Ways to Automate Your Pool

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Pool Ownership / 0 comments

We love our automatic coffee machines, programmable thermostats, and smart speakers. What’s amazing is that this same technology can be paired with your pool! Learn about the cool ways you can automate your pool and streamline its operation. 1) Pool Cover Pool covers are...

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28 Feb

6 Questions To Ask Your Pool Builder

by Weston Darling /   Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

Are you unsure how to vet a swimming pool builder? We get it! Building a pool isn’t a common experience, so many people are new to the process. Finding the right pool builder is like hiring any other contractor – you want to do...

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15 Feb

3 Reasons to Buy Your Pool Supplies at Our Store

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Splash Pool & Spa Products / 0 comments

We love online shopping just as much as the next person, but not everything is convenient to order from Amazon. Your pool supplies are one of those purchases that’s easier handled by our expert staff. We have the training to calculate how many chemicals...

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15 Oct

Swim Spa and Lap Pool Comparison

by Weston Darling /   Splash Pool & Spa Products, Uncategorized / 0 comments

You love to swim. In fact, it’s one of your favorite types of exercise. And now you want to enjoy water workouts from the comfort of your own home. You have two options – build a lap pool or buy a swim spa. Both...

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15 Sep

Stages of a Pool Project: Meet the Contractors

by Weston Darling /   Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

Are you excited to start your pool project? We absolutely love helping customers create the pool of their dreams! But just like building a house, a pool project is a collaboration between different trades. In a typical pool project, Splash Pool & Spa will...

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15 Aug

10 Fun Ideas For Pool Accessory Storage

by Weston Darling /   Pool Ownership / 0 comments

Feel like you don’t have a good place to store all your pool accessories? Between cleaning supplies, floaties, and deck chairs, it seems like pool items can multiple overnight! We love seeing how our customers get crafty with pool accessory storage. They’ve thought of...

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15 Jul

Why We Love Robot Pool Cleaners

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance / 0 comments

You own a pool so you can spend your time relaxing in it, not scrubbing for hours. Imagine if you had a device that automatically cleans your pool – just flip a button and all the brushing and vacuuming is done for you. That’s...

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30 Jun

4 Pool Plaster Colors To Consider

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design / 0 comments

Did you know that pool plaster is the secret to beautiful, sparkling water? Pool plaster is the final layer that seals your concrete shell. It’s also an amazing way to add style to your pool design. From aquamarine and tropical greens to sapphire blues...

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15 May

5 Swimming Pool Accessories You Need

by Weston Darling /   Splash Pool & Spa Products / 0 comments

Pool season is here! We are so excited to unpack our deck chairs, beach balls, and pool noodles. Just imagine the bliss of splashing in the water while your favorite tunes play in the background. To get ready for summer FUN, we’re sharing our...

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15 Mar

8 Ideas For Decorative Pool Lighting

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design / 0 comments

Need some bright ideas for swimming pool decoration? Lighting instantly elevates the mood of your pool. From softly shimmering white lights to rainbow LEDs, pool lights can create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere in your backyard. Here are eight types of decorative lighting to customize your...

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15 Feb

Seven Pool Remodel Trends for 2020

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design, Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

Is your pool over 20 years old? Then it’s time for a remodel! Every pool reaches an age where it needs a facelift. In addition to new tile and plaster, a renovation is a great time to finally get the pool of your dreams....

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10 Oct

8 Steps To Properly Close Your Pool

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance / 0 comments

The weather is growing chilly and the trees are changing colors – it’s officially time to close your pool! Once the temperatures consistently dip below 65 degrees, you can start preparing your pool for the winter months. These eight steps will ensure your pool...

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30 Sep

How To Combat Algae In Your Pool

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Water Quality / 0 comments

Your pool should be an oasis of sparkling aquamarine water. So what’s happening when it starts to form a green haze? When your water turns murky, algae is the likely culprit. While algae isn’t toxic to humans or pets, it will damage your pool...

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21 Sep

3 Reasons To Start Your Pool Project In The Fall

by Weston Darling /   Swimming Pool Construction / 0 comments

The leaves are starting to change and the football season has begun, but you should be thinking about next summer! Fall is actually the perfect time to plan for your new pool. There’s plenty of work we can complete before the snow hits. Start...

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30 Aug

Restoring Your Water Chemistry After A Pool Party

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance, Uncategorized, Water Quality / 0 comments

You just had an amazing pool party with friends and family enjoying hours of fun in the water. Maybe you had the grill going, some cold beverages on ice, great music in the background, and the soft glow of string lights. But once the...

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19 Jun

A Quick Guide To Swimming Pool Covers

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design, Pool Maintenance, Pool Safety, Water Quality / 0 comments

Your swimming pool is the epitome of summer relaxation. But it can be a struggle to keep your water clean and comfortable. Pool covers are a great way to prevent your water from turning into a murky pond. Pool covers help prevent leaves and...

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1 Apr

Pool Opening Basics: 5 Tips From The Pros

by Weston Darling /   Pool Maintenance / 0 comments

It’s about that time of year again…and by that we mean the BEST time of year. It’s almost swimming season! What else does that mean? It’s time to start thinking about your pool opening. If you live somewhere like Iowa, you know the feeling...

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4 Mar

What Are The Benefits Of A Salt Water Pool?

by Weston Darling /   Pool Design, Pool Maintenance, Water Quality / 0 comments

Ok, you’ve decided that this is the summer you’re putting a pool in. You’ve even done your homework on which type of pool is best for your backyard, your needs and your budget. One of the next questions we hear is: “Which is better?...

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21 Jan

Vinyl Liner, Concrete, or Fiberglass Swimming Pools?

by Emily /   Pool Design / 0 comments

There’s no doubt that splashing around in a pool on a summer’s day is one way to live your best life! But, is a pool a pool? In Iowa, there are commonly three types of inground pool options to consider: concrete, vinyl liner, or fiberglass...

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1 Mar

Pet Pool Accessories We Love

by splashadmin /   Lifestyle / 0 comments

One of the most common reasons we get asked to work on pool projects is family. Whether it’s empty nesters hoping to spend more time with the grandchildren or couples who work hard and want to play hard too. Summers spent around the pool...

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7 Feb

Tips For Building An Effective Pool Care Calendar

by splashpools /   Uncategorized / 0 comments

With a new year comes planning for what’s ahead; that can include your pool maintenance and care regimen, as well. It’s easy after closing your pool for the winter to fall victim to the “out of sight, out of mind” mentality. However, as all...

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11 Jan

How To Cut Your Swimming Pool Energy Costs

by splashpools /   Uncategorized / 0 comments

This week we broke out the confetti and cake for…wait for it…National Cut Energy Costs Day! Wait, you did too? Then you’ll love these tips we’ve put together on how to take full advantage of the subject and cut your swimming pool energy costs...

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