Home | Features | Products | Light Up The Night With PAL Lighting
When discussing pool lighting solutions, frequently one name that pops up again and again in conversation is PAL Lighting. The Sydney Australia-based manufacturer makes a line of wirelessly controlled LED lighting and controllers that are perfect for swimming pools, spas, water features, and landscape lighting. After first entering the US market back in 2004, word spread both in the marketplace and with professionals. Consequently, today, PAL Lighting has become a serious force to be reckoned with in the world of LED lighting. Folks are suddenly paying attention, particularly in the pool industry; and for good reason. Outdoor Lantern Sconce
One thing the pandemic did was create supply chain issues with manufacturers all over the globe. What it also did was create an opportunity for LED lighting manufacturers like PAL to suddenly reach more customers. While many pool professionals were aware of who PAL Lighting was, change happens slowly in the industry as does mass adoption of a new product line. Shortages and delays getting products have caused professionals to reexamine PAL’s products and value proposition. Suddenly PAL is in the spotlight, so to speak.
To get a better understanding of their product line we met with Ben Forrest, U.S. representative for PAL Lighting and Ryan Hughes, one of the elite builders working today. “Many have heard of our product line but haven’t tried them just because of the comfort level of doing the same old thing,” said Forrest, “while they might have heard of us, they may not have much experience with our products.”
“Most pool professionals in the industry didn’t have much knowledge of PAL Lighting prior to the pandemic, we were probably best known for our strip lighting. When Covid happened product shortages impacted a lot of manufacturers. That didn’t happen with us because our products are manufactured in Australia, not in China so we didn’t have any of the trade sanctions or challenges other manufacturers faced to the same degree,” said Forrest.
“A lot of operators were forced to try PAL Lighting as an alternative to one of the ‘Big 3’ and when they did they came back and said ‘Wow, where have you been?’, and we said, ‘Well, we’ve always been here, but nobodies been paying attention til now,'” said Forrest.
“Our sales have skyrocketed, simply because we’ve had to fill the void,” explained Forrest, “for us, the growth that we’ve seen in demand for our strip lighting is really exciting. For the last four years our strip lighting has been more than 1,000% of the previous year. You do that for four years in a row and you can tell you’re really getting strip lighting out there.”
“The other growth that’s exciting for us is that once we build a relationship with a builder and go through a few projects with them, they start to get a real understanding of what they can do with our lighting,” said Forrest, “they’re accomplishing things they’ve never been able to do before and that gives them room for growth. Instead of putting 4 lights in a swimming pool, I work with builders who are regularly putting 20-30 fixtures. They’re adding lighting for outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and all sorts of things.”
In this industry, mass adoption happens when products hit a tipping point with the right people. The fact that the elite of the industry such as Ryan Hughes have begun incorporating PAL Lighting into their luxury pool projects, suddenly puts PAL on the world stage with their products. In a recent interview with Hughes back in November at the International Pool & Spa Expo, Hughes showcased one of his latest projects using PAL Lighting products.
A post shared by PAL Lighting (@pal_lighting)
In Hughes’ PAL Lighting application he wanted to give homeowners the ability to fully control their lighting system. “They were the only manufacturer that could give us a four wire RGBW light that could be connected with DMX,” said Hughes, “because (the homeowner) wanted a DMX controller, he didn’t just want 10 colors, he wanted to be able to have any color show he wanted.”
Forrest, who uses the Hughes project as an example when showcasing the product, agrees that homeowners have come to expect more from their lighting system. Consequently, the number of existing pool owners that are looking to upgrade to LED lighting in their pool is growing.
“Think of all the lights that were installed prior to the late 90’s and early 2000’s. All of them use incandescent bulbs. We developed a bulb that we can use as a replacement that takes the average pool from a 500 watt incandescent bulb to a 9 watt LED and you get all the features that you would get from a true RGB light,” said Forrest, “meaning you get 16 million colors, dimming functions, true white mode; all controlled by remote. Pool professionals can make good margins but still retail these things for under $400.”
Listen to our entire conversation with Ben Forrest of PAL Lighting on the Pool Magazine podcast.
Featured Photo Credit: Ryan Hughes Design | Joe Traina Photography
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Editor in Chief of Pool Magazine - Joe Trusty is also CEO of PoolMarketing.com, the leading digital agency for the pool industry. An internet entrepreneur, software developer, author, and marketing professional with a long history in the pool industry. Joe oversees the writing and creative staff at Pool Magazine. To contact Joe Trusty email [email protected] or call (916) 467-9118 during normal business hours. For submissions, please send your message to [email protected]
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Looking for a gift idea for the pool owner in your life? Pool Magazine has your covered with our Top 10 Christmas Gifts for Pool Owners.
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to dive into the festive spirit and start thinking about the perfect gifts for your loved ones. If you have a friend or family member who is a proud pool owner or a water enthusiast, why not make a splash with a thoughtful and practical Christmas present? From innovative pool gadgets to luxurious poolside accessories, we’ve curated a list of 10 Christmas Gifts for pool owners that are bound to be at the top of their wish list.
Whether they enjoy lounging by the water, hosting pool parties, or taking a refreshing swim on a sunny day, our gift suggestions cater to a variety of aquatic interests. Forget the standard fare of socks and sweaters—this year, give a gift that adds a touch of excitement to their poolside experience. Join us as we explore the hottest products and propose surefire gift ideas that will make a big splash with the water-loving individuals on your holiday shopping list.
When it comes to elevating the poolside experience, consider the Ledge Signature Chaise Lounge Chairs as the epitome of style and comfort for the discerning pool owner.
These luxurious and meticulously designed loungers not only provide a chic and modern aesthetic to any pool area but also offer unparalleled relaxation. Crafted with premium materials and attention to detail, these loungers boast a signature design that seamlessly blends form and function. No wonder these chairs are one of the top christmas gifts for pool owners this holiday season.
The Signature Chaise Lounge Chairs from Ledge are more than just in-pool furniture; they are a statement piece that transforms the poolside into a resort-worthy oasis. This holiday season, treat your loved one to the pinnacle of poolside luxury with the gift that keeps on giving. It’s not just a gift; it’s an invitation to indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience right in the comfort of their own backyard.
This holiday season, add a touch of enchantment to your loved one’s poolside paradise with the USA Fire Bowls Square Knife-Edge Fire/Water Bowl.
Crafted with care from high-quality aluminum and 312-grade stainless steel, these festive fire bowls are more than just a source of warmth—they’re a dazzling centerpiece that turns any evening into a winter wonderland by the water.
With its sleek and modern silhouette, this fire/water bowl not only adds an extra layer of coziness but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your swimming pool area.
Picture the joy of gathering poolside, creating cherished holiday memories in the comfort of your own backyard. The Knife-Edge square fire/water bowl design brings a contemporary holiday flair to outdoor spaces, casting a warm glow that complements the festive season.
What makes this gift even more special is the opportunity for customization. You can personalize the fire bowl by choosing from different finishes and sizes, allowing you to tailor this holiday centerpiece to match your unique style and preferences. Give the gift of warmth, style, and festive magic with the USA Fire Bowls Square Knife-Edge Fire/Water Bowl—an exquisite addition to their seasonal celebrations.
Create the ultimate poolside paradise with the Tenjams Dash Bench. Ideal for sun shelfs with depths of up to 10 inches, this bench is a game-changer for those seeking both comfort and convenience in their aquatic retreat. Strong and durable, its robust construction easily supports over 500 lbs, offering dependable seating for you and your guests
Can you picture yourself basking in the sun, book in hand, with the Tenjams Dash Bench enhancing your pool experience? Gift Tenjams Dash Bench with Umbrella Hole to the pool enthusiast in your life, and let them experience that level of blissful relaxation in their aquatic retreat.
Crafted with practicality in mind, this bench features convenient handle openings on both ends, making it a breeze to place and retrieve from your pool. The removable cupholders add an extra layer of functionality, ensuring your favorite beverages are always within arm’s reach. Embrace the tranquility of your pool with the knowledge that the bottom openings facilitate water circulation, maintaining a harmonious balance in your aquatic haven.
One of the standout features of the Tenjams Dash Bench is its versatility. Effortlessly change the bench’s direction by pivoting it around an umbrella pole, allowing you to adapt to the changing angles of the sun throughout the day. No need for drain plugs – this bench seamlessly integrates into your poolside oasis, making every moment a celebration of comfort and style.
This holiday season, elevate outdoor relaxation to new heights with the Suncrown Daybed featuring a Retractable Canopy—an innovative blend of comfort and style that brings the luxury of a resort or day spa right to your loved one’s patio. As a thoughtful and indulgent gift, this outdoor wicker sofa daybed offers a premium retreat for moments of leisure and tranquility.
What sets this daybed apart is its versatility. The multiple staging options allow for a standard clam-shell design, creating an intimate oasis, or it can be separated into four chairs and a table for entertaining guests. The flexibility of this patio furniture set ensures that every gathering can be tailored to the occasion.
Experience the joy of outdoor living with the Retractable Canopy feature, providing adjustable light-blocking comfort to suit any mood or weather condition. Thick cushions with removable covers add an extra layer of convenience, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance. Whether it’s basking in the sunlight or seeking shade, this daybed adapts to your every need.
Crafted for outdoor use, the all-weather wicker construction ensures durability against rain and wind, making it suitable for year-round enjoyment. While the cushion is water-resistant, it’s advisable to provide waterproof protection in rainy weather to prolong its lifespan. This holiday, give the gift of an outdoor sanctuary with the Suncrown Daybed—a perfect blend of sophistication, comfort, and adaptability for the ultimate patio retreat.
This Christmas, gift the magic of ultimate relaxation with the Laze Pillow from Ledge, voted Best Pool Float by Pool Magazine, and a present that turns poolside lounging into a festive experience. Unbox the joy of leisure with this pool pillow float, offering a hassle-free alternative to traditional inflatable cushions and bringing a touch of holiday bliss to your loved one’s aquatic retreat.
Indulge in the spirit of comfort and relaxation with the Laze Pillow, filled with buoyant beads nestled in a breathable mesh layer. Let it absorb the gentle impact of water, allowing for carefree moments of serenity amidst the holiday hustle.
Made from easy-to-clean, high-quality materials, this pillow withstands the elements, making it the perfect companion for festive pool parties, lakeside celebrations, or beachside relaxation. Resisting mold, mildew, and fading, this holiday float ensures your loved one’s relaxation remains festive and worry-free. As a gift of convenience, this pool accessory arrives fully assembled, ready to be unboxed and tossed into the pool for instant holiday relaxation.
This holiday season, make a splash with the gift of ultimate aquatic convenience—the Cuddy Pool Coolers. Transform any water adventure into a festive celebration with this amphibious floating cooler that seamlessly transitions from land to sea, promising endless holiday cheer.
Whether boating, kayaking, camping, rafting, tubing, or simply soaking up the sun by the pool, this cooler keeps the festivities afloat. With easy towability in water and the capability to serve as a traditional cooler on land, the Cuddy ensures that cold drinks or gear are always within reach.
Picture the joy of social floating with the Cuddy—a floating hub for merriment on the water. Equipped with two large lids, four built-in cup holders, and a robust 40 qt capacity, this cooler brings convenience and style to every aquatic gathering. Tow it behind a kayak, SUP, or hand-pulled vessel for non-powered towing, or anchor it to a fixed point for a stationary setup.
Transform every pool gathering into a festive celebration with the Gemini Sound Splash Floating Pool Speaker—the ultimate gift for those who love to take their parties to the next level. Unveil the magic of the Gemini Sound Splash, a large portable speaker designed for outdoor events, ensuring your loved ones can experience the ultimate entertainment with this bluetooth compatible floating speaker.
Immerse your pool parties, beach outings, and outdoor events in the holiday spirit with beat-synced Multi-Color LED Woofer lights and a center strobe light.
Light up the night and create the perfect vibe, turning every gathering into a holiday extravaganza. These speakers, boasting 400 Watts of Peak Power, deliver a full range of sound, ensuring booming bass and clear treble that keep the festivities going for hours without compromising on quality.
Equipped with Dual 8” Woofers for smooth low-end bass, three 1” High-Frequency Tweeters with Intelligent Stereo Orientation, and a Class D amplifier, these speakers provide a worry-free party experience that make it one of the best christmas gifts for pool owners.
This holiday season, give the gift of sparkling pool perfection with the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus robotic pool vacuum cleaner—a high-tech marvel that brings the magic of Wi-Fi connectivity to your pool maintenance routine.
With the Nautilus CC Plus Wi-Fi, you can schedule pool cleanings from anywhere, ensuring your pool is always ready for festive gatherings with family and friends.
Experience the joy of a spotless pool with the Nautilus CC Plus’s powerful wall climbing capabilities, effortlessly scrubbing both the floor and walls of your pool. The fine filters, easily accessible from the top, work tirelessly to remove the smallest debris, leaving your pool water crystal clear and inviting for holiday celebrations.
Cleaning your pool has never been simpler than with the Dolphin’s plug-and-play system. Just plug the robot in, drop it into the pool, and turn on the power supply for a sparkling clean pool in just 2 hours. The Dolphin’s Smart Navigation Technology remains one of the top christmas gifts for pool owners because it ensures efficiency by strategically scanning your pool to determine the most effective cleaning path, adapting to any pool shape or surface type.
Create a haven of safety around your inground pool this holiday season with the GLI Protect-A-Pool Fence System—a guardian against unwanted intrusion from children, pets, or stray animals. Crafted with meticulous attention to safety and ease of installation, this 5′ high x 10′ wide panel, in a sleek black finish, ensures a secure environment for your loved ones.
Installing in mere minutes with an ordinary hammer drill, the fence becomes an impenetrable barrier that brings peace of mind to your holiday gatherings.
Each 10′ pre-assembled section is designed to fit seamlessly into any area, providing a customizable safety solution tailored to your pool’s unique layout. Transparent panels deliver a climb-resistant surface, eliminating toeholds and fingerholds that might tempt little explorers. This holiday season, gift the joy of worry-free poolside celebrations with the GLI Protect-A-Pool Fence System—an investment in safety that exceeds OSHA test standards and reflects your commitment to the well-being of those you cherish.
This holiday season, give the gift of unparalleled pool safety with the Loop-Loc Pool Cover, now upgraded to the legendary “Loop-Loc II Super Dense Mesh.” This cutting-edge technology takes pool safety to new heights, offering an ultra-strong mesh with a denser weave that goes above and beyond in providing top-tier protection for your loved one’s aquatic haven.
Imagine a pool cover that not only shields against leaves and debris but also enhances the overall aesthetics of the pool area. The “Loop-Loc II Super Dense Mesh” takes the iconic Loop-Loc durability to the next level by blocking virtually all sunlight while still allowing rain and melting snow to effortlessly drain through.
What sets Loop-Loc apart is its unrivaled strength, famously demonstrated by supporting the weight of an elephant. This isn’t just a pool cover; it’s a testament to security and peace of mind. Your gift ensures that your loved one’s pool is safeguarded year-round, providing them with the confidence to enjoy their pool area without worry.
This Christmas, make a lasting impact by giving the gift of safety with the Loop-Loc Pool Cover. It’s the perfect choice for those who value both the aesthetic and protective aspects of maintaining a pristine pool environment.
From pool furniture that exudes luxury to cutting-edge pool cleaners and safety equipment that prioritizes peace of mind, we’ve curated a wish list of items that any pool owner would joyously put at the top of their Christmas wish list. From pool parties to cozy evenings by the water, our wish list caters to the diverse needs and desires of pool enthusiasts. This holiday season, consider turning your loved one’s poolside dreams into reality by gifting them one of these carefully curated items. Because, after all, there’s no better way to spread holiday cheer than by making a splash with the perfect pool-centric present. Here’s to a season filled with warmth, joy, and unforgettable moments by the pool.
Looking for the best Black Friday Pool Deals? Dive into deep savings with Pool Magazine’s top picks.
Black Friday, the much-anticipated shopping extravaganza, has long been synonymous with unbeatable discounts and incredible deals. While many people associate this day with electronics and clothing, savvy shoppers know that it’s also the perfect time to score significant savings on pool supplies, equipment, and accessories. If you’re looking to transform your backyard into a summer oasis, Black Friday is the ideal moment to dive into discounts and save 30-50% on products for your pool and patio.
One of the key strategies to maximize your savings on Black Friday is to plan ahead and buy in the off-season. Amazon, the online retail giant, offers remarkable deals on pool-related items during this time. Purchasing in the off-season allows you to capitalize on discounts that retailers offer to clear out inventory before the next pool season begins. By being proactive and outfitting your backyard during Black Friday, you can ensure that you’re well-prepared for the upcoming spring and summer months.
Families seeking affordable and easily installable pool options are in for a treat during Black Friday. Retailers often slash prices on above-ground pools, making it the ideal time to invest in family fun. From compact designs suitable for smaller spaces to larger models accommodating a pool party, Black Friday provides a golden opportunity to turn your backyard into a water-filled playground without breaking the bank.
Above Ground Swimming Pool, Outdoor Home Swimming Pool, Corrosion-Resistant/Puncture Resistant, Suitable for Courtyards/terraces/Gardens
Bestway Power Steel 14' x 8'2" x 39.5" Oval Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump, Ladder, ChemConnect Dispener
Bestway Steel Pro MAX 14' x 33" Round Above Ground Pool Set | Includes 530gal Filter Pump
Pool pumps are essential components for maintaining a clean and healthy swimming environment. Black Friday presents an excellent opportunity to save big on high-quality pool pumps and filters. Many retailers, both online and brick-and-mortar, roll out significant discounts on these items, making it the perfect time to upgrade your pool system without breaking the bank.
CHLORWORKS Variable Speed Pool Pump Inground 1.5 HP- with Filter Basket for Inground Pools, Save Energy, Energy Star Certified, 220-240V, 2 Years USA Warranty
AUTOGEN Swimming Pool Pump, 1.5 HP 7500 GPH 115V/230 V, 1100 W Dual Voltage Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump with Strainer Basket and Drain Plug 60HZ Silent Operation, UL for Security
Anbull 13" Pool Sand Filter w/ 3/4HP Pool Pump, 5 Way Valve 3648 GPH Pump Flow Rate, Filter up to 10,000GAL Above Ground Swimming Pool(Upgraded Version)
BOMGIE 1.5 HP Pool Pump Inground, 5790GPH Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump, 115V High Flow Single Speed Powerful Self Priming Pool Pumps with Strainer Basket, Energy Saving, Low Noise
2HP 6825GPH Inground Pool Pump, Inground/Above Ground Swimming Pool Pump, Self Primming Pool Pump with Strainer Basket, 1.25" 1.5" and 2“ Pipe Fitting
AQUASTRONG 2 HP In/Above Ground Dual Speed Pool Pump, 115V, 5186 GPH, High Flow, Powerful Self Priming Swimming Pool Pump with Filter Basket for Swimming Pool…
Black Friday is the perfect occasion to invest in a robotic pool cleaner, a cutting-edge solution that takes the hassle out of keeping your pool pristine. These intelligent devices navigate your pool’s surface, walls, and floor, efficiently removing debris, leaves, and dirt. With Black Friday discounts, the latest robotic pool cleaners equipped with advanced cleaning technologies become more accessible, offering a significant upgrade to your pool maintenance arsenal.
Dolphin Liberty 200 Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner — Simple Inductive Charging — Wall Climbing Capabilities — Ideal for Above and In-Ground Pools up to 33 FT in Length
Seauto Shark Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner Waterline Cleaning, Wall-Climbing, Intelligent Route Planning (Multi)
AIPER Seagull SE Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner, Pool Vacuum Lasts 90 Mins, LED Indicator, Self-Parking, Ideal for Flat Above/In-Ground Pools up to 33 Feet - Gray
WYBOT WY450 APP Control Robotic Pool Cleaner with Smart Route Planning, Wall Climbing, Spot Cleaning, Double Filters, Pool Vacuum Robot with Super Powerful Suction, Ideal for In-ground Pool up to 50ft
WYBOT S1 High-end Cordless Wall Climbing Robotic Pool Cleaner with APP Mode, Smart Mapping Tech, Lasts 180mins, Automatic Pool Vacuum Robot with Powerful Suction, Fast Charging Fit for Inground Pools
VINGLI Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum, Automatic Swimming Pool Cleaner for Above Ground Pools/Inground Pools Up to 40Ft,7500mAh/Auto-docking, Charging for 2 Hour
(2023 New) AIPER Seagull Pro Lite Cordless Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner, Wall Climbing Pool Vacuum Lasts up to 140 Mins, Quad-Motor System, Smart Navigation, Ideal for In-Ground Pools up to 1,614 Sq.ft
WYBOT Sophisticated Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner, Dual Strong Suction Port, 130min Runtime, Cordless Pool Cleaner, World's First Smart Protection System, Ideal for Pools Up to 1300 Sq.ft
For consumers seeking expert guidance on the best Black Friday pool deals, Pool Magazine has done the homework. The publication meticulously researches and compiles a list of the top discounts and promotions on pool supplies, equipment, and accessories. Checking their recommendations can save you time and help you make informed decisions to maximize your savings.
DeeprBlu Inflatable Pool Floats Chair with Color Changing Light, Solar Powered Water Floats for Adults with 2 Cup Holders & 2 Armrests, Beach Float Pool Sofa, Pool Raft Lounge Pool Floaties for Adult
RYAKKA Floating Smart Pool Monitor 2023 Newest Pool Water Testing Smart Device 7 in 1 CL/PH/EC/TDS/ORP/Temp/Salinity APP Digital Display for Pool, Saltwater Pool, Hot Tubs & Spas(Wireless Gateway)
PoolRX+ Pool Unit 20k-30k gallons
POOL BLASTER Catfish Ultra Rechargeable, Battery-Powered, Pool-Cleaner, Ideal for In-Ground Pools and Above Ground Pools for Cleaning Leaves, Dirt and Sand & Silt.
Patented ProTuff Pool Pole, Telescopic 16ft - Never Sticks or Slips - Lifetime, No Cost Replacements - Heavy Duty Telescoping Pool Poles for Cleaning - Premium Pool Cleaning Equipment
Dolphin Triton PS Robotic Pool [Vacuum] Cleaner - Ideal for In Ground Swimming Pools up to 50 Feet - Powerful Suction to Pick up Small Debris - Extra Large Easy to Clean Top Load Filter Basket
Life-Bulb LED Color Changing Wall Mount Pool Light with Remote | 75ft Cable | 12V 60W | Lifetime Replacement Warranty | Optional No Drilling Required Installation Kit*
BLUE WORKS Saltwater Pool System - Up to 40,000 Gallons Pool, Salt Chlorine Generator BLH40, 2 Years USA Warranty, White
XtremepowerUS 13" Sand Filter 3/4HP Pool Pump 2400GPH High-Flow Above Ground Pool Set with Stand
BLUE WORKS Variable Speed Pool Pump Inground 1.5HP, Inground Pool Pump 230V, ENERGY STAR Certified, 2-Year USA Warranty, BLPVS1515H
As the holiday season approaches, seize the opportunity to turn your backyard into a pool paradise with Black Friday deals. Whether you’re in need of pool pumps, equipment, accessories, or patio furniture, the savings during this time can be substantial. By taking advantage of off-season discounts and staying informed about the best deals through resources like Pool Magazine, you can ensure a summer filled with fun and relaxation in your newly outfitted backyard oasis. So, dive into Black Friday savings and make a splash with your pool transformation!
In the ever-evolving world of pool construction and renovation, professionals are constantly on the lookout for innovative products that not only enhance pool quality but also streamline installation processes. Recently, a pool professional posted a question in the Ask The Masters group on Facebook, a community dedicated to educating the pool industry. The question revolved around ecoFINISH products and whether anyone had experience with them. To shed light on what ecoFINISH is, how it works, and why it’s gaining traction, we sat down with Joe Solana, President of ecoFINISH, and Jacob Tetrick, a new installer and applicator who says using ecoFINISH products has been incredibly beneficial for his pool business.
The ecoFINISH brand has become known in recent years for its innovative pool finishing technology. They specialize in external flame spray powder coating, a unique approach to pool surface coatings. This technology uses polyethylene powders that are chemically resistant and incorporate UV-stable pigments, making the pool surface highly durable and resistant to the effects of water chemistry and sunlight.
Joe Solana highlights a significant advantage of ecoFINISH: its resistance to fading due to water chemistry. “You won’t get your typical bleach mark,” he explains. “If someone throws muriatic acid into the pool or broadcasts chlorine excessively, the finish remains unscathed, unlike traditional masonry finishes. This provides pool owners and builders with valuable time to rectify any chemical mishaps, mitigating potential damage.”
One of the standout features of ecoFINISH is its remarkably short curing process. Solana elaborates, stating, “The curing process for our finish lasts a couple of minutes. It’s essentially from the time that you stop applying the heat to the time it cools is our curing process.” This means that as soon as the pool application is complete, it can be filled with a standard garden hose. No need for the logistics and expense of trucked water, as is the case with some other pool finishes.
What sets ecoFINISH apart further is the absence of a protracted two-week curing period that often accompanies alternative finishes. This ease of use and rapid curing process benefits not only pool owners but also pool builders, who can initiate pool operations immediately.
Jacob Tetrick, who operates Quality USA Pools in South Dakota, provides invaluable insights into why ecoFINISH has become an integral part of his pool construction and renovation projects.
Jacob’s initial interest in ecoFINISH was piqued by a growing demand for pool resurfacing. He explains, “With the increasing number of inquiries about pool renovations, I began exploring options for a higher-end pool solution that could be completed more quickly and with minimal disruption to the homeowner’s property. In my region, some clients are averse to the idea of a full concrete pool due to cost differences. They are willing to invest more for a superior product.”
One of the primary advantages that caught Jacob’s attention was ecoFINISH’s simplicity and ease of application. “Even on complex resurfacing projects that involve chipping out plaster and applying a skim coat to a concrete pool, we can complete the job with just three workers,” he states. “This not only saves time but also minimizes the challenges associated with larger labor crews.”
For Tetrick, delivering a high-quality, long-term solution to his clients is paramount. He emphasizes, “I want to provide the best possible products for the best possible price, both for me and for the customer. It’s about being profitable on jobs and ensuring that customers don’t face recurring issues, necessitating frequent service calls.”
Jacob’s experience with ecoFINISH has been overwhelmingly positive. He adds, “I’ve been an ecoFINISH installer for about two years now, and the best thing about it is its simplicity. As long as you follow their process, perform the necessary prep work, and take your time to apply the product properly, you won’t encounter any issues.”
Moreover, Tetrick underscores the benefits of ecoFINISH for his customers. “When discussing pool options with customers, I emphasize the differences. Vinyl liners have a limited lifespan, typically three to seven years, with replacement costs ranging from $7,000 to $13,000,” he explains. “In contrast, the ecoFINISH-coated pool offers a ten-year warranty, doesn’t fade in the sun, is environmentally friendly, and eliminates the need for vinyl liners, reducing waste.”
An outstanding feature of ecoFINISH is its durability. Tetrick highlights, “The product comes with a ten-year warranty, but we’ve observed it lasting well beyond 15 years without requiring any maintenance. What’s particularly impressive is the ability to make repairs. For example, if we apply ecoFINISH to a concrete pool and it develops cracks, we can revisit the area, fix the crack, and reapply the coating. This process seamlessly bonds to itself, ensuring a consistent finish. There’s no need to redo the entire pool.”
Solana also discussed the considerable challenges associated with introducing a new technology to an industry. He explains, “Early on, we had made the decision since we were the ones introducing this technology, that if anything went wrong,” Solana says, “and applicators were not installing correctly and they were having issues, the product would be to blame. It’s not like having some type of cementitious plaster finish and just coming out with a new brand. Usually, the applicator is the one who can easily be explained as doing it incorrectly and the reason for the problem. But when you have a whole new technology and you’re introducing it into an industry that’s never heard of it before, and you’re asking people to believe that it works, if you run into any streak of issues, everyone’s going to blame the new technology.”
To ensure the success of the technology, ecoFINISH made a crucial decision. Solana explains, “We knew that we had an uphill battle. I’ve been in the swimming pool industry my entire life. I was born into the family business. I know the kind of guys that we deal with on a day-to-day basis. Often if presented with needing to pay for training, they’ll opt to skip it. So we made the decision early on that we would never charge anyone for training.”
The commitment to free training has been a cornerstone of ecoFINISH’s approach. Solana underscores this point, saying, “Out of our applications all over the world, other than the initial purchase of the equipment, I can only think of one or two instances where we actually charged somebody for training. For all of our customers, one of the points that we hit on is that we will get people to them for training for any reason. If they’re just uncomfortable and need help, all they have to do is ask.”
Moreover, Solana acknowledges the unique nature of the pool industry. “A lot of guys who do concrete pools only do concrete pools,” he states. “Guys who do fiberglass pools typically only do fiberglass pools. There’s a handful of companies out there where they’ll jump around and they’ll work on different types of pools, but there’s not a ton of those guys. The vast majority specialize in something, then they stick with it. So if you’re a concrete guy and that’s what you’re used to, and that’s what we trained you on, and you go to do your first fiberglass pool, not only do we want you to ask for help, we want to be there. We want to show you how to do it because there are subtle differences between the two applications.”
Listen to our two-part series with Jacob Tetrick of Quality USA Pools and Joe Solana of ecoFINISH on the Pool Magazine podcast.
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