An aerial, close-up shot of the shallow end of a swimming pool. The pool has a light blue interior with a built-in bench and a set of stairs. The edge of the pool is lined with a dark, brick-like coping. The surrounding deck is a light brown, stamped concrete.

Why More Homeowners Are Adding Tanning Ledges and Sun Shelves

Are you looking to add more fun, comfort, and style to your pool? Tanning ledges and sun shelves are among the most popular features in today’s custom pool designs—and for good reason. These shallow, multifunctional zones offer the perfect balance of relaxation, family fun, and visual appeal. At Carlton Pools, we help homeowners across PA and NJ design new pools …

A person wearing a dark blue polo shirt, a matching baseball cap, and khaki shorts is cleaning a swimming pool with a handheld pool skimmer. The person is holding the skimmer with both hands and is focused on the task. The pool water is sparkling blue, and the surrounding area includes stone coping and lush green foliage in the background.

Why DIY Pool Maintenance Can Cost You More in the Long Run

Pool owners often think DIY maintenance will save them money. But this choice can lead to bigger costs down the road. This blog will show you why hiring pros can be cheaper in the long run. Ready to learn more? Key Takeaways Hidden Costs of DIY Pool Maintenance DIY pool maintenance can hide some hefty costs. You might not see …

A poolside view of a modern swimming pool and patio area. The pool has a dark interior and features a shallow sun shelf with an in-pool lounge chair and a large blue patio umbrella. The pool area is surrounded by a light-colored patio and a retaining wall made of stacked stone, which supports a landscaped garden bed.

How to Keep Your Pool Water Clear After a Big Party

Keeping your pool clean after a big holiday party is key to clear water. Start with these basic steps to remove debris and prevent algae growth. Key Takeaways Test and Balance Water Chemistry Testing and balancing your pool’s water chemistry is key after a big party. Grab a test kit and check the chlorine levels, which should stay between one …

A backyard with a rectangular inground swimming pool and a round above-ground pool. The inground pool is in the foreground with a concrete deck and a ladder leading into the clear blue water. In the background, a large silver above-ground pool sits on a wooden deck.

Choosing Between Inground and Above-Ground Pools

Are you torn between an inground or above-ground pool? Picking the right pool can be tricky. Inground pools can last a lifetime and add value to your home. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of each type. Key Takeaways Key Differences Between Inground and Above-Ground Pools Inground and above-ground pools differ in more ways than you …

A wide shot of a rectangular swimming pool with a white pool house behind it. The pool house has a dark gray metal roof, black barn doors, and dark shutters. Four lounge chairs sit in front of it. A stone wall with a waterfall feature is on the left side of the pool.

How to Quickly Clean a Pool Before a Party

Planning a pool party but just realized your water’s not ready? Don’t panic—you’ve got time. With a little hustle and the right steps, you can get your pool clean, safe, and sparkling in just a few days. Here’s how to do it fast. Start with a Professional Pool Water Test Before anything else, take a water sample to a local …

A person wearing a blue polo shirt and khaki shorts uses a long, light blue pool pole to clean the water in a swimming pool. The pool is surrounded by a stone deck and a grassy area with a fence in the background.

Should You Pour Pool Shock Directly Into the Water?

Many pool owners wonder if they can pour pool shock straight into the water. Pool shock is a strong chemical that kills bacteria and algae in pools. This article will explain the right way to use pool shock safely. Key Takeaways What is Pool Shock? Pool shock is a powerful chemical treatment used to clean and sanitize swimming pools. It’s …

A five-gallon bucket of pool shock and a green hose lie on the concrete deck next to a swimming pool. The water is a bright blue, and two white lounge chairs sit at the opposite end.

Can You Add Pool Shock Without the Filter Running?

Pool owners often face a tricky situation when their filter stops working. They wonder if they can still add shock to keep their pool clean. Pool shock is a strong chemical that kills bacteria and algae in the water. This article will explain how to add pool shock without a running filter. Ready to learn more? Key Takeaways Can You …

A wide shot of a rectangular swimming pool with a white pool house behind it. The pool house has a dark gray metal roof, black barn doors, and dark shutters. A stone wall with a waterfall feature is on the left side of the pool.

Can You Run Your Pool Pump 24 Hours a Day?

Factors to Consider for Pool Pump Run Time Pool pump run time depends on several key factors. These factors affect how long you should run your pump each day. Pool size and turnover rate Pool size plays a big role in how long a pump should run. Larger pools need more time to filter all their water. The turnover rate …

A view of the complex plumbing and filtration system for a swimming pool, showing a network of white PVC pipes, pumps, and filters set on a gravel base next to a brick house.

Should You Backwash After Shocking Your Pool?

Many pool owners wonder if they should backwash after shocking their pool. Shocking adds chemicals to kill algae and bacteria, but it can leave debris behind. This blog will guide you on when and why to backwash for clear, safe water. What is Backwashing? Backwashing cleans your pool filter by flushing out dirt, debris, and contaminants. It keeps your filtration …

A dirty swimming pool with a few leaves and debris floating in the dark blue-gray water. It is raining and the sky is overcast. The pool is surrounded by a concrete patio.

What to Do with a Pool During Heavy Rain?

Heavy rain can turn your pool into a messy problem with debris and unbalanced water. It often lowers chlorine levels, making algae growth more likely. This blog will guide you through simple steps to protect your pool and keep it clean. Effects of Heavy Rain on Your Pool Strong storms can mess up your pool in many ways. Rainfall dilutes …