Notes from the deep end

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

479 articles

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Clean Up After a Pool Party With Cups and Small Trash

Clean up a pool party safely by skimming debris, turning off the pump before basket access, and checking the pool water and filter afterward.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is the Function of a Skimmer Basket Ring or Insert?

A skimmer basket ring or insert helps the basket seat properly, steady the skimmer opening, and keep debris moving toward the basket instead of the pump.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Water Chemistry · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Pool Chemistry Mistakes Cause Constant Sanitizing Problems?

Constant sanitizing problems usually come from unstable water balance, poor circulation, clogged filtration, or incompatible pool chemicals—not just low chlorine.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to remove stains from a vinyl pool liner

Identify the stain first, then use a gentle, liner-safe cleaning sequence with the pump off. Brush lightly, vacuum debris, and follow label and manual directions.

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

Pool Care · Archive date: · 3 min read

Should I Seal My Travertine Pool Deck?

Sealing travertine can help a pool deck resist stains and clean up more easily, but only if the stone is sound, dry, and the sealer label suits natural stone.

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 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.

Skimming & Debris · Archive date: · 3 min read

What Is the Best Way to Skim a Pool When the Surface Is Choppy?

The best way to skim a choppy pool is to reduce the disturbance, work with the wind, use short passes, and keep baskets clear with the pump off.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.

Skimmer Equipment · Archive date: · 3 min read

How to Prevent Leaves from Bypassing the Skimmer Basket

Prevent leaf bypass by keeping the water level right, checking basket fit, freeing the weir door, and balancing flow before debris reaches the pump.

Written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 7, 2026; assigned an earlier archive date, not published on that date.