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Whether you’re looking to enhance the beauty, comfort, or functionality of your pool, there are countless possibilities to make your outdoor space feel like an oasis.

As the days get longer and the weather starts to warm up, it's time to think about spring and the joys of poolside living. Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or planning to build your dream backyard oasis, upgrading your pool with custom features can elevate your outdoor space to new heights. At Axis Custom Pools, we specialize in creating unique, tailored pools that suit your lifestyle, and now is the perfect time to get your pool ready for the new season.

Here are some must-have upgrades to consider as you spring forward into the warm months:

Energy-Efficient Equipment

As the weather heats up, you'll likely be using your pool more frequently. Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment can help keep your energy bills in check while ensuring your pool stays in top condition. Consider adding a variable-speed pump, LED lighting, or energy-efficient heaters. These upgrades reduce energy consumption and provide better control over your pool’s operation, saving you money in the long run.

Water Features for Relaxation and Aesthetic Appeal

One of the easiest ways to create a luxurious, resort-like feel in your backyard is by adding water features. From cascading waterfalls to tranquil fountains or even custom-built jets, water features can enhance the look and sound of your pool area. The soothing sound of flowing water is perfect for relaxation, and they create an atmosphere of peace and serenity that can help you unwind after a long day.

Integrated Smart Pool Technology

Technology is rapidly transforming the way we interact with our pools, and smart pool features are a game-changer. Imagine controlling your pool’s temperature, lights, and cleaning schedule from your phone, no matter where you are. Smart automation systems make pool maintenance easier than ever, giving you more time to enjoy your pool rather than worrying about upkeep. You can also monitor water quality and receive notifications if your pool needs attention—keeping your pool pristine with minimal effort.

Upgraded Pool Decking and Coping

Your pool deck is not only functional but a key element of your pool’s aesthetic. Upgrading to premium materials like natural stone, travertine, or stamped concrete can completely transform the look of your pool area. These materials are durable, slip-resistant, and beautiful, giving your backyard a sophisticated and polished appearance. Consider adding custom coping around your pool for a seamless and stylish finish that ties everything together.

Outdoor Living Space Enhancements

A pool isn’t just about the water; it’s about the entire experience. Upgrading your outdoor living area with features like a custom-built patio, outdoor kitchen, fire pit, or cabana can turn your backyard into an entertainment hub. These additions create spaces for dining, socializing, and lounging, making your pool area perfect for entertaining friends and family all season long.

Custom Pool Lighting

With longer days and warmer evenings, your pool will likely become the center of your nighttime gatherings. Upgrading your pool lighting can completely transform the atmosphere after dark. Consider adding underwater LED lights, color-changing lights, or floating lanterns to create an enchanting ambiance. Custom lighting options can highlight architectural features, pathways, and landscaping around your pool, making it a visually stunning centerpiece no matter the time of day.

Enhanced Pool Heating Systems

Spring often brings fluctuating temperatures, so having the ability to control your pool’s temperature is key to enjoying it to the fullest. Upgrading to an advanced pool heater—whether it’s gas, electric, or solar—can help ensure that your pool is always at the ideal temperature for swimming. You can extend your swimming season by keeping the water warm and inviting, even during cooler evenings or early spring mornings.

Expanded Pool Shapes and Designs

If you’re building a new pool or renovating your existing one, consider going beyond the standard rectangular shape. Curved, geometric, or freeform pool designs offer endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more natural, organic design, custom shapes can complement your landscape and create a pool that truly reflects your style.

Saltwater System Conversion

A saltwater pool is a great option for those looking for a low-maintenance alternative to traditional chlorine pools. A saltwater system is gentler on the skin and eyes, offers smoother water, and reduces the need for harsh chemicals. If you’re thinking about upgrading your pool for better water quality, a saltwater conversion could be the perfect way to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, more comfortable swim all season long.

Get Ready to Spring Into Your Dream Pool!

Upgrading your pool with custom features is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring. Whether you’re looking to enhance the beauty, comfort, or functionality of your pool, there are countless possibilities to make your outdoor space feel like an oasis. At Axis Custom Pools, we’re dedicated to helping you create a pool that fits your lifestyle and makes your backyard the place to be this season.

Ready to take the plunge? Contact us today to discuss your ideas and start planning your pool upgrade.

Axis Custom Pools specializes in designing and building high-quality, custom swimming pools that elevate your outdoor living experience. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, their expert team works with you to create a pool that perfectly fits your style, needs, and budget. Call 469-222-5835 or visit their website for more information!



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Whether you’ve recently had a pool installed or you’re looking to refresh your poolside oasis, thoughtful landscaping can transform your backyard into a serene retreat.

As the weather warms up and your pool is ready to shine, it’s the perfect time to elevate the space around it with a bit of landscaping flare. Whether you’ve recently had a pool installed or you’re looking to refresh your poolside oasis, thoughtful landscaping can transform your backyard into a serene retreat. The good news? You don’t need to have a green thumb or commit to extensive upkeep to create a stunning poolside environment. Here are some simple, low-maintenance landscaping tips to complement your pool this spring.

Choose Low-Maintenance Plants

The key to beautiful poolside landscaping is selecting plants that thrive in your climate and are easy to maintain. Look for varieties that don’t shed too much debris, as fallen leaves and flowers can clog your pool’s skimmer and make more work for you. Here are a few great options:

  • Liriope: Also known as "Monkey Grass," liriope is a hardy, grass-like plant that requires very little care. It adds a beautiful, grassy texture along pool edges or in containers.

  • Lavender: This fragrant, drought-resistant plant brings a splash of color and a soothing scent to your outdoor space. It’s perfect for adding contrast to the blues of your pool.

  • Agave: If you’re looking for something architectural, agave’s striking spiky form is perfect around a modern pool. It requires minimal watering and thrives in full sun.

  • Bougainvillea: Known for its vibrant hues and sprawling growth, bougainvillea adds a splash of color to fences or walls. It thrives in warm climates with little water once established.

  • Succulents and Cacti: Perfect for low-water gardens, these plants can be arranged in pots or along the poolside. Their bold shapes and minimal care needs make them ideal choices.

Opt for Smart Hardscaping

Hardscaping elements like patios, walkways, and decking play a major role in the overall look of your pool area. For a seamless, modern feel, use materials like natural stone, textured concrete, or composite decking. These materials provide an elegant, practical surface that blends beautifully with nature.

  • Stone Pathways: Add a few stone stepping paths leading to the pool or around its perimeter. This gives your yard a rustic feel while ensuring you don’t end up with muddy footprints by the poolside.

  • Wood Decking: A wood or composite deck around the pool area creates a cozy, inviting feel and allows for easy lounging. Choose low-maintenance composite decking for long-term durability without the need for regular staining.

  • Pebble Accents: Use pebbles around pool edges to create a beachy, tropical vibe. A pebbled border around your pool can add texture and enhance your pool’s modern or natural aesthetic.

Incorporate Outdoor Furniture and Decor

The right décor and furniture can instantly elevate your pool area. Opt for stylish, weather-resistant outdoor furniture that complements the overall theme of your landscaping. Some simple ideas include:

  • Lounge Chairs & Daybeds: For a luxurious touch, add comfortable lounge chairs or daybeds with colorful cushions to encourage relaxation by the pool.

  • Umbrellas and Shade Structures: Adding an umbrella or a shade structure, like a pergola, offers relief from the sun while enhancing the overall aesthetic.

  • Outdoor Lighting: Lighting not only serves a functional purpose but also adds ambiance. Consider placing solar-powered lights along walkways, under plants, or even floating LED lights in the pool to create a magical nighttime setting.

  • Water Features: A small, low-maintenance water feature like a fountain or waterfall adds visual interest while keeping the environment peaceful and serene.

Add Color with Planters and Pots

Don’t have the space for a large garden? No problem! Decorative planters and pots are a fantastic way to add a pop of color to your pool area without overwhelming the space.

  • Vibrant Flowers: Consider potted flowers like geraniums, petunias, or marigolds, which can be easily swapped out every season for a fresh look. Their bright blooms will contrast beautifully against the blue water.

  • Citrus Trees: Smaller citrus trees like lemon, lime, or orange are not only decorative but also functional. Their fragrant blossoms will infuse your pool area with a refreshing scent.

  • Modern Ceramic Pots: Large, bold ceramic pots are a stylish way to display greenery and flowers. Place them near the pool for an instant upgrade.

Go Green with Artificial Turf

If you love the look of grass but want to skip the maintenance, artificial turf is a great solution. It looks and feels like natural grass, providing a lush backdrop to your pool, without the hassle of mowing, watering, or fertilizing.

Artificial turf is especially useful in areas where real grass struggles to grow, such as around pool decks where the combination of sunlight and water often leads to patchy grass. It’s a cost-effective way to keep your backyard looking fresh all year round.

Create Privacy with Strategic Plantings

If your pool is in a more open area and you want to create a sense of seclusion, use plants and shrubs to enhance privacy. Tall, evergreen shrubs like boxwood, arborvitae, or bamboo can help create a natural barrier without the need for fences or walls.

  • Bamboo: A fast-growing, versatile option for creating a privacy screen, bamboo can be planted along the edges of your pool area. Just be sure to choose a clumping variety to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.

  • Tall Grasses: Ornamental grasses, such as pampas grass or fountain grass, can provide height and movement, adding a sense of privacy while still maintaining an airy, open feel.

Final Thoughts

Your pool is a place for relaxation, fun, and enjoyment, and the right landscaping can enhance the experience even further. By choosing low-maintenance plants, incorporating smart hardscaping, and adding stylish décor, you can create a beautiful, functional space that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Plus, with the spring season in full swing, now is the perfect time to breathe new life into your backyard and transform it into your personal oasis.

At Axis Custom Pools, we understand that a great pool area isn’t just about the water – it’s about creating an entire outdoor space that you love. For more tips, ideas, or help with your pool landscaping, feel free to reach out to us. 

Axis Custom Pools specializes in designing and building high-quality, custom swimming pools that elevate your outdoor living experience. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, their expert team works with you to create a pool that perfectly fits your style, needs, and budget. Call 469-222-5835 or visit their website for more information!



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Spring is the perfect time to perform essential pre-season maintenance to ensure your pool is clean, safe, and operating efficiently for a season of fun and relaxation.

As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s time to start thinking about getting your pool ready for the upcoming swim season. Spring is the perfect time to perform essential pre-season maintenance to ensure your pool is clean, safe, and operating efficiently for a season of fun and relaxation. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you get your pool in top shape for spring and beyond.

1. Start with a Thorough Pool Cleaning

After months of inactivity during the cooler months, your pool likely has accumulated debris, dirt, and leaves. A thorough cleaning should be the first step in your pool preparation.

  • Skim the Surface: Use a pool skimmer to remove any debris from the water’s surface. Leaves, bugs, and other items can build up over the winter, so clear the pool’s surface to improve water quality and ensure proper filtration.

  • Brush the Pool Walls and Floor: Use a pool brush to scrub the walls, steps, and floor to remove any dirt, algae, or buildup that may have settled over time. Pay close attention to the tile line, where scum and dirt can accumulate.

  • Vacuum the Pool: After brushing, vacuum the pool to remove dirt from the bottom. You can use a manual vacuum or an automatic cleaner to do this.

2. Check and Clean Your Pool Equipment

Now that your pool is looking clean, it’s time to turn your attention to the equipment that keeps it running smoothly. Regular maintenance of your pool equipment is essential for ensuring your pool stays crystal clear throughout the season.

  • Inspect the Pump and Filter: The pump is the heart of your pool’s filtration system, so make sure it’s working properly. Check the pump basket for any debris and clean it out. Examine the filter for any clogs or damage. If necessary, clean or replace the filter media (sand, cartridge, or diatomaceous earth) to keep the filtration system running efficiently.

  • Examine the Heater: If you have a pool heater, now is the time to ensure it’s working properly. Check for any signs of wear or leaks, and clean the heater’s vents and exhaust to prevent buildup. You may also want to schedule a professional inspection to ensure it’s in optimal condition.

  • Test and Adjust the Pool Skimmer and Return Jets: Ensure the skimmer basket is clean and free of debris. Adjust the return jets to improve water circulation, which helps prevent stagnant water and algae growth.

3. Test the Pool Water and Balance Chemicals

Water chemistry is essential for keeping your pool clean, clear, and safe to swim in. As you start the season, it’s important to test the water to determine its current chemical levels and make necessary adjustments.

  • Check pH Levels: The ideal pH level for your pool water is between 7.4 and 7.6. If your pH is too high or too low, it can cause skin irritation, cloudy water, and damage to your pool surfaces. Adjust the pH with the appropriate chemicals.

  • Test for Chlorine or Sanitizer Levels: Ensure your pool has the right chlorine or sanitizer levels (usually between 1-3 ppm for chlorine). This helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and algae in the water.

  • Calcium Hardness and Alkalinity: Test your pool's calcium hardness and alkalinity levels. Low alkalinity can cause pH fluctuations, while high calcium hardness can lead to scaling. Both should be adjusted as needed.

  • Shock the Pool: If your pool water appears cloudy or hasn’t been used for several months, you may want to “shock” the pool. This involves adding a high dose of chlorine to kill bacteria, algae, and other contaminants. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper dosing.

4. Inspect the Surface

Your surface is another important area to check as part of your pre-season maintenance.

  • Check for Tears or Leaks: Inspect your surface for any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or leaks. If you notice any issues, it’s essential to address them.

  • Examine the Pool Tiles: Look closely at the tiles around the pool’s waterline. Ensure they’re securely in place and free of cracks. Repair or replace any broken tiles to prevent further damage.

5. Prepare the Pool Deck and Surrounding Area

While your pool is the main attraction, don’t forget about the surrounding area. A well-maintained pool deck enhances both the look and safety of your pool.

  • Clean and Sweep the Deck: Sweep away any dirt, leaves, and debris from your pool deck. Consider pressure washing the deck to remove stains and buildup.

  • Check for Trip Hazards: Inspect the deck for any cracks, uneven surfaces, or loose tiles that could create a safety hazard. Repair any issues before the pool is in full use.

  • Check Pool Furniture and Accessories: If you have poolside furniture, cushions, or umbrellas, check them for wear and tear. Clean or replace any items that need attention.

6. Schedule a Professional Pool Inspection

Even if you’re thorough with your DIY pool maintenance, it’s always a good idea to have a professional take a look. A pool technician can spot potential issues that may not be immediately obvious and perform maintenance tasks that require special tools or expertise. They can check everything from the electrical components of your pool pump to the condition of your pool’s plumbing and heating systems.

Final Thoughts

Getting your pool ready for the warmer months doesn’t have to be a stressful task. By following these essential pre-season maintenance tips, you’ll ensure that your pool is in top shape for the upcoming season. Regular cleaning, equipment checks, and water testing are all key to keeping your pool inviting, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

At Axis Custom Pools, we’re here to help with all your pool needs. Whether you need professional maintenance, custom pool design, or repairs, our team is ready to ensure that your pool is ready for another amazing season.

Axis Custom Pools specializes in designing and building high-quality, custom swimming pools that elevate your outdoor living experience. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, their expert team works with you to create a pool that perfectly fits your style, needs, and budget. Call 469-222-5835 or visit their website for more information!