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Standard Terms Used by Your Pool Builder

If you own or you've thought about installing an inground custom swimming pool, it's helpful to know some of the standard terminologies your pool builders use when talking technical specifications.



To help you feel more comfortable when discussing custom pool-related topics, here are definitions and more information about the terminology most commonly used in the pool building industry:


Beam - The beam of your swimming pool is an essential part of the structure found near the decorative stone edge installation above the interior pool tiles.


Coping - Coping it a material installed on the beam. It follows the shape of the waterline and the edge of the pool itself. Generally, concrete decking abuts the back of this material using a control joint.


Perimeter - Sometimes called the pool beam, the pool perimeter gets used to calculate the interior swimming pool's surface area.


Surface Area - The term surface area is a reference to the square footage of the water contained inside the pool. The surface area helps calculate the pool's overall size and how much space is needed in the yard to accommodate it.


Deck - The deck is the area that surrounds the perimeter of the swimming pool. Common deck materials include pavers, concrete, tile, wood/Trex, and textured concrete.

The deck area should always clean and clear to improve pool safety.


Filtration Pump - A filtration pump plays a critical role in circulating water throughout the pool for cleaning and use. Specialized filtration pumps for pool/spa combinations handle water filtration for both swimming pools, spas, and jacuzzis to keep the water clear and bright.


Pool Filters - Clean pool filters play an essential role in maintaining a crystal clear swimming pool. Cartridge filters catch small debris, even those so small you don't see them. Choosing a high-quality filter helps to minimize the amount of time and frequency between full pool cleanings.


Pool Chemicals - Pool chemicals are another necessary component of maintaining a clean and sanitary swimming pool. Chlorine is the most widely used pool chemical and prevents harmful bacteria from growing and reproducing. Available in liquid, tablet, or form, it's safe to add chlorine to pool water anytime in the filtration cycle. However, pool builders often suggest using a chemical feeder to augment chlorine levels right after filtering. While putting chlorine tablets into the skimmer boxes is a bit easier, the downside is that chlorine tends to become more concentrated in these areas.


While this is not an "all-inclusive" list of all pool components, this essential glossary should make you feel more comfortable discussing your pool project with a professional pool builder.


If you live in the Rockwall, Texas area, call the professionals at Hopkins Custom Pools and ask for a free estimate on our pool services.

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