What surfaces do you offer?
Our customers can choose from any surface offered by the following manufacturers:
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PebbleTec
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Stonescapes
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Premix Marbletite
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Pentair
How long will my project take?
Project times vary wildly based on customer selections, product availability and weather conditions on the day of work and days leading up to the day of work.
Where do you take on new projects?
We operate throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Pinellas county, Hillsborough county, Pasco county and Hernando county.
How Long will it take to begin my project?
There’s no easy answer to this question. Your specific answer relies on the size of the job, plaster being installed, availability of materials and above all else, the time of the year. As any holiday approaches our schedule can back up several weeks. Always feel free to contact our office about the current state of the schedule. Always remember that regardless of the answer you’re given over the phone, we cannot control the weather and often have to make judgement calls based on the chance of rain.
Can you add water features to my pool? (e.g. spas, fountains, jets)
Yes. Our main scope of work is prepping pools for plaster, and plastering pools for contractors but we do offer complete remodel packages directly to homeowners.
Are you hiring?
We are currently hiring for positions as a plasterer, CDL drivers and general laborers. To inquire more about an open position or apply for work with Southwest Pool Finishers, simply contact our office and we will be happy to forward an application to you.
What are some pool maintenance issues I should be aware of.
The most common maintenance issue is scaling (a white haze) on the pool finish surface due to poor water chemistry. The water chemistry in your swimming pool and/or spa must be maintained at certain levels to prevent scale build-up. Scale can also trap dirt and debris, further discoloring your finish. Scale removal is not covered by warranty. The most common method for removing scale is through chemical treatment. However, in some cases it may be necessary to drain your pool to remove the scale using chemicals and/or pressure washer. Most authorized applicators will offer this service. We recommend that testing and balancing of the pool water take place at a minimum of once a week. It is also recommended to have the water tested regularly at a retail pool supply store (in some stores, testing is computerized) even if the pool is being cared for by a pool service company.
Other concerns such as etching, discoloration, formation of algae, and staining can all be attributed to improper water chemistry. We cannot stress enough how vital the importance of maintaining proper water chemistry is to the longevity and continued beauty of your pool finish.
How do I care for my pool?
With the ownership of a new pool comes the responsibility of maintaining proper water chemistry. Maintaining proper water chemistry is essential in preserving the aesthetic beauty of the finish, as well as attaining the expected longevity of the finish. Please adhere to the proper Maintenance Guidelines found in the NPC Start-up. After 30 days, the pool water must be maintained per the National Plasterer’s Council for recommended ranges for pH, carbonate alkalinity, hardness, cyanuric acid/stabilizer and total dissolved solids; at all times. Visit NPC online at www.npconline.org.
Why is there a disclaimer associated with finishes that contain seashell?
Select finishes may contain seashell pieces such as abalone that are made from minerals in seawater by living mollusks. Under certain unfavorable conditions, such as aggressive water chemistry, the shells may lose some of their luster and sparkle over time. In some cases they are known to bleed out with improper chemical maintenance. With proper maintenance and care of your pool, the luster of the shell should last for years. Southwest Pool Finishers does not recommend using Abalone shell in the finish due to these circumstances. Abalone bleed out (Staining) is not covered under warranty.
Why does the water color of my pool look different than I expected?
There are many factors that influence the final pool water color including, but not limited to: pool depth, day time sun exposure, night time lighting placement, trees and landscaping, decking material and water features (i.e., fountains, jets etc.) Even water chemistry and filtration can affect water color. Southwest Pool Finishers cannot guarantee that a product sample or image will be an exact match to your finished pool for these reasons. In all cases, allow time for the initial curing process (approximately 30 days) before judging the finish or color.
Will my pebble fall out over time?
It is normal for pebbles to come loose during the initial curing process. It is also normal for some small loss of pebbles over time. Maintaining proper water chemistry is pivotal to preserving the integrity of the finish. If water chemistry is not properly balanced, the cement may weaken over time and the pebbles may come loose in larger amounts.
How long should I wait to enter my newly filled pool?
You should never enter an empty pool. We recommend that you wait until the pool is completely finished, filled and that the water is chemically balanced to start enjoying it. Please refer to the NPC maintenance guidelines for more information.
When do I turn the water off when filling my new pool?
Never turn the water off until the pool is completely full. The water level needs to reach the waterline tile before turning the water off. Our Technicians will start filling the pool from the deep end of the pool. Please do not move the fill hose. The water needs to enter the pool at the deep end only. If the water is turned off before reaching the waterline tile, it is possible that a hydration line will appear. This is not covered under warranty.
Where Can I find start-up instructions for my pool?
We recommend you follow the National Plasters Council (NPC) guidelines that can be found by visiting: http://www.npconline.org/?page=start_up_card.