Notes from the deep end

Practical articles for pool owners on skimming, water testing and choosing the right equipment.

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112 articles

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How much does it cost to build a pool deck?

Pool deck cost depends on deck size, material, site prep, labor, and features like stairs or railings. The most accurate budget comes from local bids.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Repair Concrete Pool Deck Deterioration

Concrete pool deck repair starts with diagnosing the damage: clean the area, fix stable surface cracks, and call a pro for sinking, exposed steel, or drainage problems.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is a J Hook Pool Liner?

A J hook pool liner is a vinyl pool liner with a hooked top edge that hangs over the wall and seats in compatible coping, helping hold the liner in place.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is a Pool Liner Made Of?

Most swimming pool liners are made of flexible vinyl, usually PVC-based, and may include a polyester scrim for strength, shape retention, and waterproofing.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is the Best Pool Deck Paint?

The best pool deck paint is a coating made for your deck material, outdoor sun, and wet foot traffic, with prep and cure times that follow the label.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Much Does an Inground Pool Liner Cost?

An inground pool liner replacement cost depends on pool size, shape, liner type, labor, and any shell repairs needed before installation.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is ORP in Pool Water Testing?

ORP, or oxidation-reduction potential, is a quick indicator of how strongly pool water can support disinfection. It works best alongside chlorine and pH testing, not instead of them.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is TDS in Pool Water Testing?

TDS means total dissolved solids in pool water: the dissolved minerals, salts, and other substances a test can detect, but not the exact cause of a problem.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

Where Is the Air Relief Valve on a Pool Pump?

The air relief valve is usually on the pool filter, not the pump itself. Look near the top of the filter tank and turn off the pump before touching equipment.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Prime a Pool Pump Without Removing the Lid

You usually can’t truly prime a pool pump without opening the lid, but you can fix common causes of lost prime first: low water, blocked baskets, valve issues, or air leaks.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Install an Inground Pool Liner Safely and Correctly

A safe inground pool liner installation starts with prep: empty and inspect the pool, fix defects, clean the shell, then set and smooth the new liner before refilling.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How Much Does It Cost to Resurface a Pool Deck?

Pool deck resurfacing cost depends on size, surface damage, prep work, and finish choice. A site visit gives the most accurate estimate and repair plan.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.