(POOL SPECIFIC LINGO)

BEAM:  The term used to define the top rim of the pool shell.  There are two distinctly different construction methods of beams.  Many pool builders will construct an “L”  beam (6” x 12”).  Classic Reflections builds pools with a four bar box beam (four pieces of 1/2” steel set in a 12” x 12” gunite beam).  Structural engineers have informed us that this “box” method of construction is as much as 300 % stronger than the “L” beam method.  While it is very difficult to keep your pool from moving due to expansion and contraction of the soil, this heavier structural beam will help ensure the integrity and long life of your pool’s gunite shell.

BREAK:   The transition point in the floor of a diving pool where the floor goes from deep to shallow.  This is critical to the safety of someone diving into your pool.  Classic Reflections strictly adheres to the recommendations made by the National Spa and Pool Institute. 

COPING:   The material used to cover the beam of the pool such as brick or stone.  While many pool builders will try to save money by using thinner coping such 1”, we will use only 2” thick coping due to a much longer life expectancy and lower maintenance. 

COVE:   The area of the pool shell which makes the transition from vertical wall to horizontal floor.  We take great care to make sure the radii of your pool’s coves will not start too early in the vertical portion of wall.  If the radius is begun too soon or is too large, it will be impossible to stand up next to the edge of your pool without leaning.

D.E.:   Diatomaceous earth.  A white powder consisting of the skeletons of prehistoric animals called diatoms.  Used in conjunction with a filtering grid, these filters are called D.E. filters.  While D.E. filters are our filter of choice due to their cleaning capabilities, certain building codes or geographic restrictions may require us to install either a sand or cartridge filter.

DECKING:   The surface placed around a pool behind the coping.  The most common materials used in pool construction are wood, stone, brick, aggregate, stamped concrete and salt finish concrete.     

EQUALIZER:   Classic Reflections installs a sub-surface suction line from the pool directly into the base of the skimmers.  This equalizer line allows water to flow to the equipment even if the skimmers are frozen shut or the water level drops below the skimmer throat.  Over the years, this technique has saved our clients thousands of dollars in equipment repairs.

FOOTING:   The structure used to support retainer walls, decks or pools.  Typically steel re-enforced gunite or concrete.  Thickness, width, steel schedule and piers will vary depending on the strength and stability necessary for differing applications.

GUNITE:   The name given to the type and application of concrete used for pool construction.  There are two distinct types used in building pools, wet and dry.  Although opinions may vary among pool builders, we have used both types successfully.  We have found that the strength of either type of gunite is in direct proportion to mix richness and application.  Classic Reflections guarantees a minimum strength of 3000 P.S.I.

MASTIC:   The expansion joint between the back of the coping and the deck is a full ½”.  This allows for the expansion, contraction and movement of decks and pools without significant deterioration.  

O.C.E.W.:   Abbreviation for “on centers each way.”  A term used to describe the distance between steel rebar used in pools, decks and footings.

PLASTER:   The smooth, waterproof  coating applied to the inside of a pool.  Classic Reflections applies two coats to ensure a long, leak proof life.

P.S.I.:  Pound per square inch.  A measurement of strength determined by the amount of force necessary to break the material being tested.

REBAR:   The type of steel used in construction.

RETURN LINE:   The plumbing line responsible for bringing freshly filtered water back to the pool. Classic Reflections puts adjustable, eyeball type inlets on all returns.

SKIMMER:   The surface drain used to draw water from the pool. The skimmers main purpose is to collect leaves and other floating debris.