In today’s fast-paced world of pool construction, finding a comprehensive and efficient solution is key for both builders and homeowners who desire a faster turnaround time. Only Alpha Pool Products, a family-owned and operated business, has emerged as a frontrunner, offering turn-key pool kits that are gaining swift traction among pool builders seeking a high-quality, streamlined, and versatile system.

Who is Only Alpha Pool Products?

Founded in the early 2000s by business partners Tim Saxer and Tom Epple, Only Alpha Pool Products has had a rich history in manufacturing swimming pool components. With a diverse team representing hundreds of years of experience, the company has become a powerhouse in the industry, introducing innovative products and systems tailored to meet the evolving demands of the market.

One of Only Alpha’s standout offerings is the composite wall system, available in both vinyl liner (Fusion) and linerless (Evolution) configurations. Evolution which was inspired by materials used in the automotive industry, provides a hardy and temperature-resistant alternative to traditional polymer-based pool systems. This innovative approach has allowed the company to make a splash in the market, starting with the installation of the first Evolution pool in a Pennsylvania hospital back in 2009.

Composite Wall Pool Systems

Tim Saxer, Executive Vice President, explained why their composite wall system has become a mainstay product for Only Alpha Pool Products. “The reason why we went to composites rather than polymer, which is what everybody else does, is composites have a much broader temperature range. Heat and cold don’t affect it during the installation or transportation process. It’s a very hardy product that can handle heat well, and really builds like steel on a non-corrosive platform.”

Steel Wall Pool Systems

In addition to composite wall systems, Only Alpha manufactures steel wall pools in various heights, offering a versatile solution suitable for fully buried or semi-inground installations. The company also produces fiberglass, acrylic, and thermoplastic steps, bending its own coping and, as of last year, has begun manufacturing vinyl liners for swimming pools.

Builders Gravitating To Only Alpha Evolution

The Evolution, a standout product in Only Alpha’s lineup, has garnered high praise from pool installers, who emphasized its suitability for commercial and higher-end residential projects. Saxer, a seasoned expert with decades of experience in the industry, offered insights into the fast installation time that has become an appealing selling point with pool builders.

“It’s precision made. The product has 10,000th of an inch variation in its dimensions on it. So it’s a very exacting product,” explained Saxer, “internally, we have the ability to manipulate the product. We can cut it, we can glue it together so we can be able to make an interior that’s unique to anything precisely requested by a dealer. we’ve also worked with 3M on various adhesives to help build the pool, to make it a watertight shell without any coating on it.”

Speedy Build Time & Ships Ready For Assembly

“The wall structure, assembly of the wall structure, or in the case if you look at a concrete pool, would be called a bond beam. The assembly is very quick. We have a special adhesive that you would use between the wall systems to make it watertight, but it builds very quickly,” explained Saxer.

“It’s a prepackaged product, so it comes on pallets. It comes virtually preassembled. Once they pull it off the truck they can go right to work assembling it. Unlike a gunite pool, where you’re playing around with rebar and everything else. With this system, it’s all preset,” said Saxer.

“The concrete bottom has got to be poured correctly,” said Saxer, indicating one of the similarities in respect to traditional gunite pools. “You need to pour it fairly dry so you don’t have shrinkage in it.”

On Site Training & Support Allows Builders To Take On Larger Projects

Although a turn-key system, Saxer explained that builders still need proper installation training. Saxer conveyed that Only Alpha provides extensive training for dealers, ensuring that a trainer is present on the job site for each installation. The insistence on having a trainer present on the job site during the construction speaks to the company’s emphasis on hands-on learning and guidance, ensuring that builders have the necessary skills and knowledge to execute the building process with precision.

Only Alpha’s pool systems offer a variety of design options, from quick installs suitable for various shapes to replicating specific designs requested by customers. Saxer explained how their pool system has enabled builders to take on larger jobs. “We did a 30 foot vanishing edge pool for an apartment complex right near Purdue University,” said Saxer, who explained their system provided one of their vinyl liner dealer the opportunity to sell an apartment pool.

Only Alpha Pool Products Expedited Build Process Is Appealing

“Another interesting project was someone who came to us that was a one piece fiberglass builder. The consumer wanted a much larger pool, but they loved the interior design of the fiberglass pool,” explained Saxer, “we were able to replicate that pool on a larger scale for the customer,” who was looking for an expedited build process.

“The customer preferred this over gunite. Gunite is very expensive, and frankly, it’s a project. It’s going to take 30 to 45 days to complete a gunite or shotcrete pool shell. Two installers could assemble the 20 x 40 wall system in our evolution pool in less than 2 hours,” explained Saxer.

Manufactured With Sustainability in Mind

In an era where environmental consciousness has become paramount, Saxer says that Only Alpha Pool Products is commited to environmental responsibility and sustainability in the production process.

“On the production floor, everything we build is 100% recyclable. The vinyl liner could be any scraps get sent back and get reground into a 3D binder book cover for a kid at school. Steel is reprocessed. The composite panel can be reground, and it has the ability to be used as a filler for roads. Everything’s able to be reprocessed and recycled into another product. We’re very big on that in our industry.”

Want to take a deeper dive and learn more about Only Alpha Pool Products? Listen to our interview with Tim Saxer on the Pool Magazine podcast.

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Colorado Custom Covers & Decks Crafts Inspired Deck & Pool Experience

By Michelle Hendricks, Category Marketing Manager at Deckorators

There’s never been a more exciting time for homeowners when it comes to the possibilities of outdoor living. Our entire marketplace is witnessing a shift, and at the forefront of this evolution are the talented contractors and builders who are leading the way. One could say that these outdoor experts are truly ‘guides’: helping homeowners maximize their spaces with a deeply inspired understanding of their needs and expectations.

Homeowners continue to invest more time and capital into their outdoor spaces than ever before, and they’re putting more thought into how they want their outdoor living spaces to function. Our network of Certified Pros reports that their clients are increasingly interested in a collaborative design process, eagerly bringing their ideas and inspiration to the table.

After going through several design ideas for this project, in close competition with another contractor, Colorado Custom Covers & Decks sealed the deal with a multi-level backyard retreat that checked all of the client’s boxes. Built in Conifer, Colorado for a family that fosters children with disabilities, it was crucial for this deck to maximize usability in terms of square footage. Consideration of spatial flow was a top priority, and carefully planned stairs were implemented to smooth the connection between the upper and lower levels.

This project by Deckorators Certified Pro Jonathan Moeller of Colorado Custom Covers & Decks exemplifies the concept of the ‘outdoor room,’ creating an added living space that blends form and function for versatile use throughout the seasons. By dividing the outdoor space into flexible-use ‘zones,’ homeowners can add value to their homes and ensure their outdoor spaces achieve their full potential.

The remodeled upper deck, sheltered by a skylit roof covering, features an outdoor kitchen and a gas fire pit. Initially, there was no lower-level deck. The homeowners requested inclusion of both a swim spa and a hot tub on the lower level, without obstructing the view. To meet that request, Moeller and his team came up with an innovative design solution: To frame the lower deck flush around both water features, using Deckorators Voyage decking in Khaya. To achieve this, they had to remove an excess of soil from the lot, pour new concrete pads to hold the swim spa and hot tub, and elevate the deck to fit around them.  

Local building code required the decking to be fit snug around the lip of the water features, and also required the equipment to be fully accessible for maintenance. Moeller and his team installed removable trap doors to keep the aesthetic clean while allowing mechanical access to the swim spa and hot tub.

“These were great clients. They were really easy to work with, and they ended up loving the space,” says Moeller. “Everything went fairly smooth, aside from just dealing with the winter and the snow in Colorado. Being able to build the deck they really wanted, with a swim spa and a hot tub that the kids can use, was a great joy.”

When it comes to incorporating a deck around pools and spas, material selection is critical. Warranted for installation in the ground or water, Deckorators Voyage line features slip-resistant traction for safety. Powered by Surestone technology, Voyage blends durability with style, eliminating thermal expansion and contraction concerns and providing the industry’s best strength-to-weight ratio. Surestone materials combine distinctly natural wood-grain patterns with rich colors, offering easy personalization and customization. All Deckorators Surestone decking is low-maintenance and backed by a 50-year structural and 25-year stain-and-fade limited warranty.

An additional design highlight on this mountain escape is the cable railing, with x-shapes adorning the spaces between each cedar post. The x-pattern feature is prominent on the stairs inside the house, so the homeowners wanted to reflect that detail in their outdoor space. It was a tricky, meticulous endeavor – string lines and laser levels were crucial – to make sure the railing came out completely straight and level.

Colorado Custom Covers & Decks, 21944 Plateau Circle, Morrison, CO 80465. Instagram: @colorado_covers_decks. Location of project: Conifer, CO.

About the Author —

Michelle Hendricks is the Category Market Manager for Deckorators, a leading brand of UFP Industries, Inc., and offers insights from the brand’s experience innovating new products in the composite decking, railing, and accessories market. Deckorators help homeowners maximize their outdoor living space — and make it their very own. That means offering products with competitive warranties and new and innovative technologies.

Whether homeowners are looking to work with a local deck builder on a deck project or tackle the job themselves, they can visit Deckorators.com to learn more, get started on a project, locate a contractor or find out where to buy these and other Deckorators products.

Photo Credit: Timothy Gormley

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In the dynamic world of pool maintenance and equipment, staying ahead of the curve is essential for pool professionals to deliver top-notch services to their clients. Hayward has a clear understanding of the importance of continuous education and has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive training opportunities for pool professionals. Recently they updated the training section of their website, offering an array of hands-on training courses and webinars to enhance the skills of pool professionals.

Hayward Training Courses

Hayward’s hands-on training courses cater to pool professionals seeking expertise across various crucial aspects of pool maintenance. Covering an array of topics, these sessions delve into the intricacies of Hayward’s latest products, ensuring professionals are well-versed in recommending and installing cutting-edge solutions. Specialized training in heaters, automation, salt systems, pumps, infloor systems, and electrical troubleshooting equips participants with the skills needed to address challenges in specific areas. By offering a comprehensive curriculum, Hayward empowers pool professionals to offer knowledgeable expertise to their clients.

Hayward’s dedication to supporting pool professionals is evident in the various programs they offer throughout the country. Here are some of the latest hands-on education opportunities offered by Hayward in the upcoming months. Make sure to visit and bookmark their Training Registration page as an ongoing resource.

Hayward Hands-On Training By Location

• Florida
• Gulf Coast
• Mid-Atlantic
• Mid-West
• North East
• South Central
• Southeast
• Southwest
• West

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How a former hot tub operator leveraged software to streamline and grow his business through uncertain times

Steve Ruscigno does not consider himself to be tech savvy. However, he is a firm believer that software can be a powerful tool for growing a business.

Throughout his twenty years in the hot tub industry, Ruscigno, who was vice president and general manager of Oregon Hot Tub, depended on an enterprise resource planning (ERP) program to bring the business through crises even stronger.

“We had the software, so that’s actually what saved us,” he says. “The owner and I got together and went to a whiteboard and said, ‘Okay, what happens if we don’t ever deliver another hot tub? How are we going to survive?’”

As Ruscigno explains, they found those answers in their business software.

Build a stronger foundation

Ruscigno wasn’t at Oregon Hot Tub long before facing his first test. He began just six months before September 11, 2001. The terrorist attacks hit the industry hard, and Oregon Hot Tub was faced with a 30% decrease off top line sales.

“We survived that, but I always look at these kinds of downturns as a real opportunity to shore up your foundation,” says Ruscigno.

Part of reinforcing the foundation of Oregon Hot Tub included adopting a new software program. In 2002, Oregon Hot Tub became the first client of Evosus, an ERP platform built specifically for the pool and hot tub industry. Not only did the software reduce inefficiencies to provide more time to be proactive, but it provided the company with the insights needed to make smart business decisions.

Oregon Hot Tub was soon stronger than before. However, in 2008, the business again saw a decrease of 30% in hot tub sales due to the Great Recession.

“That’s when we really dug into the service side of our business,” says Ruscigno. “The software really helped us understand where our revenue came from in the service division, where our opportunities were, since we couldn’t rely on selling 50 to 100 hot tubs every month.”

With the insights gained from their software ERP, Oregon Hot Tub realized an opportunity to focus on the high profit revenue that its service center could offer.

“We not only survived, we started thriving in a big way,” says Ruscigno.

Streamline and grow

Ruscigno’s experience working with Evosus made such an impression on him that he left the hot tub industry in early 2022 to become the software company’s chief revenue officer.

“Evosus’s tagline is to help businesses streamline and grow,” he says. “That’s exactly what I tried to do over 20 years at Oregon Hot Tub. So, to come here with this tool and be able to help with that is very exciting to me.”

Ruscigno leverages his background to help pool and hot tub businesses get the most out of LOU, the new cloud-based version of the original Evosus platform. Retailers, service providers, and builders in the pool industry can grow their business with ERP software like LOU that offers three key benefits.

Productivity all on one platform:

Businesses should look for software that provides the ability to streamline operations by completing multiple functions — such as managing inventory, scheduling services, collecting and processing payments, and creating estimates and work orders — all in the same hub. It’s an added bonus if the platform also comes with a mobile app technicians can use in the field. This not only provides each person in the business with accurate information in real time, but also means one source of support for any software issues.

Comprehensive inventory tracking:

Businesses can benefit from software that can track your inventory across all sites, including vehicles, in real time. This visibility not only ensures that technicians have everything needed for a job, but also can save businesses money.

“When money’s tight, inventory is cash. You want to make sure you’re not reordering the wrong stuff and you are ordering the right stuff,” says Ruscigno. “Having that software helps you determine your top sellers and bottom sellers, right? Then you can close out the bottom sellers and get more top sellers.”

Real-time data:

Software that provides comprehensive real-time data can provide the opportunity to make smarter business decisions and stay proactive.

For example, each October while at Oregon Hot Tub, Ruscigno would utilize LOU to run reports to determine the top-selling heaters in the field. He was then able to order the heaters they’d need for winter installation jobs in advance.

Make the change

Transitioning to an all-in-one software program is easy, Lwhether you currently use multiple software programs or a pen-and-paper system. Ruscigno’s advice is to start by cleaning up your existing data and carefully consider how to best set up the platform for maximum efficiency.

More business owners have been willing to adopt new software following the pandemic, according to Ruscigno, as they realize that the benefits software offers can help them prepare for future crises.

“Having relevant data will help you weather that storm,” he says. “I talked to a lot of people that are still on pen and paper, or they use an Excel spreadsheet to run their business, and it works. But if you want to grow, you’ve got to have a vehicle for growth.”

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San Diego, CA – August 22, 2023 – Fluidra North America, a leading manufacturer and distributor of innovative pool and wellness solutions, is thrilled to announce Philadelphia’s own Anton & Sons Pool LLC as the winner of its highly anticipated ServicePro Rewards Program Spin N’ Win Truck Raffle.

Each year, Fluidra awards the winner $30,000 towards a vehicle of their choice and provides a free truck wrap with the company’s branding to assist with promotional outreach.

The raffle, which was first introduced as part of the ServicePro Rewards Program seven years ago, was designed to reward service professionals in the program for their ongoing loyalty and commitment to Fluidra brand products. Combined, the raffle has resulted in over $4 million cash prizes awarded to its members in that time.

“I thought it was just a marketing gimmick; I didn’t really expect it,” said Tom Anton of Anton & Sons Pools LLC. “It’s an awesome gift and truly appreciated. We’re a small company with seven trucks in our fleet and they get a great amount of use, so this will definitely come in handy.”

“We couldn’t be happier for Anton & Sons Pools,” said Donny Cislo, Sr. director of sales ops and trade marketing. “Their unwavering commitment and dedication to our industry and their customers embody the very essence of why we do this raffle—they deserve this.”

This year, the winning raffle ticket was drawn by David Van Brunt, host of the popular Pool Guy Podcast, adding an exciting layer of anticipation and celebration to the event. David’s influential voice within the industry and his dedication to promoting excellence in pool service align perfectly with Fluidra’s values.

“We were thrilled to have David join us to pull the winning ticket,” commented Cislo. “As a respected service professional himself who has dedicated more than 30 years to our industry, it seemed fitting that he help us call out the well-deserving recipient of this year’s raffle.”

The annual Spin N’ Win Truck Raffle is part of Fluidra’s ServicePro Rewards Program—a comprehensive program designed specifically for pool service professionals to maximize their benefits based on how they do business. These benefits help save time and money while providing valuable resources pool service companies can utilize to grow their business.

When pool professionals join the ServicePro program they not only get cash back on purchases of Jandy®, Polaris®, Zodiac®, CMP® and select S.R.Smith® products, they also get access to exclusive training opportunities, customer leads, cutting-edge marketing resources, industry-specific business management software, and customized promotions on Fluidra brand products. ServicePro members also receive extended limited warranties on all products—ensuring customer satisfaction while allowing them to remain competitive in the market.

-More-

For more information about the ServicePro Rewards Program visit https://www.fluidrarewards.com/en/servicepro and to learn more about Anton & Sons Pool LLC’s journey, please visit https://youtu.be/46KMnd1fZdw.

About Fluidra

Fluidra is a publicly listed company focused on developing innovative products, services and IoT solutions for the residential and commercial pool markets, globally. The company operates in over 45 countries and owns a portfolio of some of the industry’s most recognized and trusted brands, including Jandy^®, Polaris^®, CMP^®, Taylor, S.R.Smith^® and Zodiac^®. To learn more about Fluidra, visit fluidrausa.com or call 800-822-7933.

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Katy, Texas – Ledge Lounger Inc. (“Ledge” or the “Company”), an industry leader in outdoor & in-pool furniture, is excited to announce a significant leadership transition, as Chris Scherzinger takes the reins as the incoming CEO, succeeding the Founder and outgoing CEO, Christopher Anderson. This transition, effective September 5, 2023, marks a pivotal moment in the Company’s journey, setting the stage for continued growth and innovation.

Incoming CEO, Chris Scherzinger, is a seasoned executive with more than 30 years of experience, previously serving as CEO of Weber Inc. and prior to that holding various executive and leadership positions at Jarden Corporation, Johnson and Johnson, Procter & Gamble and General Electric. Scherzinger brings a track record of disruptive growth, iconic brand building and creative product innovation, and he brings impressive strategic insight to the Ledge team. Scherzinger’s experience and his dedication to team-building and organizational development position him well to guide Ledge into its next phase of growth.

“I am thrilled to join the Ledge team” said Scherzinger. “Chris Anderson and his team have built an impressive business that has been on the leading edge of innovation and design in the industry. I am excited to embrace that legacy and continue to focus on new product innovation and growth across all our direct-to-consumer, wholesale and B2B channels.”

As the Founder and CEO of Ledge, Anderson leaves an indelible mark on the Company and industry. Under his leadership, the Company created a new product category of in-pool furniture and elevated Ledge to a leading position within the industry. Anderson’s dedication to Ledge’s customers and team members and his commitment to innovation has laid the groundwork for future success.

“I founded Ledge with a vision to bring innovative products to the swimming pool and backyard industry. We have done that and so much more,” remarked Anderson. “As I transition from my role as CEO, I have full confidence in Chris Scherzinger’s ability to steer the Company towards new heights.”

The transition represents a seamless shift of leadership at Ledge as the Company embraces its history while looking forward to an exciting future of growth, innovation, and continued excellence. Anderson will remain on the Board and assist with key company growth initiatives.

About Ledge Lounger Inc.:

Founded by Christopher Anderson in 2011, Ledge Lounger Inc. created the in-pool furniture category with its iconic Signature Chaise and has since expanded the product set to include outdoor furniture, games, and floats. Ledge operates an omni-channel go-to market strategy leading with direct-to-consumer and maintaining strong relationships with the trade, commercial and specialty retail channels. Ledge has experienced rapid growth since inception and is poised to continue to gain traction as a leader in outdoor furnishings and entertainment.

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Westfield, Indiana—Automatic Pool Covers, Inc. (APC), a manufacturer of automatic pool covers for new and existing swimming pools and spas, celebrated its 20^th year of manufacturing automatic pool covers this summer! The company opened its doors in 1979 as a small pool cover distributor and began manufacturing its first automatic pool covers in 2003. Michael Shebek, Owner and CEO of the company, worked side-by-side with his father, the late Mike Shebek Sr., putting in more than 20,000 hours of time installing and servicing covers himself when he took over as owner of the company in the year 2000.

“We decided to manufacture covers in 2003 because there was a need in the market to create an automatic cover that was designed by installers for installers,” explains Shebek.

The company’s commitment to innovation and fast turnaround times has fueled the company’s growth and drove the need to expand the company’s facility. “We’ve made the commitment to cutting-edge technology and manufacturing processes with a clear focus on excellent customer service,” says Shebek.  As a result, the company boasts the industry’s-leading turnaround times on automatic pool covers.  “Pool professionals in our industry appreciate our fast turnaround times and dedication to high-quality automatic pool covers.  Our manufacturing abilities have led to our exponential growth. We are thankful to our customers and grateful for our manufacturing team,” says Shebek.

The company now has over 130 employees, many of whom have been with the company since it started manufacturing automatic pool covers in 2003.  “We are blessed to have a talented, driven and dedicated team of employees who work together to bring product innovations to our automatic pool covers; creating covers with superior design and durability,” says Shebek.

The company’s celebration was held within its newly expanded manufacturing facility, complete with a custom, combination-cake in the shape of an Automatic Pool Covers Inc. cover-motor and PowerTouch Touchpad—the cakes were made by Quiana Owens, a Dealer Support Representative at APC.

Automatic Pool Covers, Inc. | Westfield, Ind. | (800) 878-5789 | AutomaticPoolCovers.com

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Minneapolis, Minn. – August 22, 2023 – Pentair, a leading provider of water treatment and sustainable solutions, recently announced that David Kraft has been named group sales leader for its Pool segment, a $1.6B business that provides innovative, energy efficient pool solutions to help people more sustainably enjoy water. Kraft will report to Greg Claffey, Pentair Pool group president.

“At Pentair, our leaders are passionate about assisting our pool professionals to help their customers experience full pool enjoyment. David brings extensive experience leading high-performing, customer-centric teams and building relationships. As we continue to innovate more sustainable and connected solutions, David is committed to supporting our pool customers and helping their businesses grow. We look forward to David’s leadership in elevating our Pool segment,” said Claffey.

In his role, Kraft has responsibility for driving the sales and service strategy for the Pool business unit. Kraft also leads strategy for the Sales Operations and Warranty functions and Pool Europe Sales and Product Management teams.

“It’s wonderful to build relationships with customers who are as passionate about water as I am. I’ve always been dedicated to listening and leading with a customer-first approach. I look forward to supporting pool professionals in helping their businesses thrive and creating an effortless pool experience for their customers. I’ve been particularly impressed with the fervor throughout our partner network, and I’m excited to meet the people who make the pool industry so great,” said Kraft.

Kraft joins Pentair from Emerson Electric Co., where he was most recently vice president of Global Business Development after holding multiple roles of increasing responsibility over almost 25 years. Prior to Emerson, Kraft held positions at Moore Products Company.

ABOUT PENTAIR 
At Pentair we help the world sustainably move, improve and enjoy water, life’s most essential resource. From our residential and business solutions to industrial water management and everything in between, Pentair is focused on smart, sustainable water solutions that help our planet and people thrive. 

Pentair had revenue in 2022 of approximately $4.1 billion, and trades under the ticker symbol PNR. With approximately 11,250 global employees serving customers in more than 150 countries, we work to help improve lives and the environment around the world. To learn more, visit www.pentair.com. As an industry leader in the pool and spa space, Pentair is dedicated to elevating the pool experience to the next level with connected, efficient, and quality products so people can soak in the magical, wonder filled moments by their pool, giving them time – and peace of mind – to create them. Pentair’s pool solutions are engineered to help filter, clean and sanitize water, while automation equipment makes it easy to control from anywhere. For more information, visit pentair.com/pool. 

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In the ever-evolving world of lighting technology, Pal Lighting has emerged as a frontrunner, revolutionizing the way we experience illumination. Among their impressive range of products, their DMX automation technology stands out for its cutting-edge capabilities and unparalleled instant color feature. This article will delve into the world of DMX automation and highlight how Pal Lighting’s unique offering of instant color sets them apart from competitors, bringing unmatched creativity and efficiency to lighting professionals worldwide.

Understanding DMX Automation Technology

DMX (Digital Multiplex) automation technology is the backbone of modern lighting control systems. It allows lighting fixtures, such as LED lights, moving heads, and special effects, to be controlled and programmed remotely from a central console. This digital communication protocol enables the seamless integration of lighting elements and permits complex lighting setups with precision and ease.

Key Features of Pal Lighting’s DMX Automation Technology

Instant Color: A Game-Changing Differentiator

One of the standout features that sets Pal Lighting’s DMX automation technology apart from its competitors is the provision of instant color selection. While traditional DMX systems require users to program color changes manually, Pal Lighting’s innovation enables users to effortlessly switch between colors in real-time.

The ability to achieve instant color changes is a game-changer for lighting professionals in various industries. Whether it’s live events, concerts, theatrical performances, architectural lighting, or any other application, instant color empowers designers to adapt quickly to evolving scenarios and synchronize the lighting with the overall ambiance seamlessly. This rapid response capability opens up new dimensions of creativity and ensures that every moment is perfectly illuminated.

What is DMX Lighting?

DMX lighting, in the context of a backyard, refers to a lighting control system that uses the DMX (Digital Multiplex) protocol to control and synchronize various lighting fixtures and effects. DMX is commonly used in professional lighting setups for concerts, theaters, nightclubs, and even outdoor events, including backyard lighting displays. Here’s how

DMX lighting works in a backyard setting:

DMX Protocol: DMX is a standardized communication protocol used to control lighting equipment. It allows for precise control of individual or groups of lights by sending digital signals through a DMX controller to the lighting fixtures.

DMX Controller: A DMX controller is a device that sends signals to the DMX lighting fixtures. In a backyard setup, this controller can be a physical hardware console or a software-based controller running on a computer or mobile device.

DMX Lighting Fixtures: These are the actual lights in your backyard setup. DMX-compatible lights come in various forms, such as LED fixtures, moving heads, spotlights, floodlights, and even decorative string lights. Each fixture is assigned a unique DMX address, which allows the controller to control them individually or in groups.

Programming: To create specific lighting effects or scenes in your backyard, you program the DMX controller. This programming can involve setting the color, intensity, and movement of each light fixture. You can also create dynamic lighting sequences, chases, fades, and strobes.

Synchronization: DMX allows for precise synchronization of lighting effects. For example, you can synchronize the lights with music, creating a captivating audiovisual experience in your backyard.

Automation: Some DMX controllers support automation features, enabling you to schedule lighting scenes or activate them in response to triggers like motion sensors or timers. This can enhance security or create special effects for events.

Remote Control: Depending on the controller and fixtures used, you might be able to control your DMX lighting system remotely through a smartphone app or web interface. Power and

Wiring: DMX lighting systems require proper power distribution and wiring. DMX cables are used to connect the controller to the fixtures. Adequate power sources are essential to ensure that all lights receive the necessary electricity.

DMX lighting can transform your backyard into a visually stunning and dynamic space, whether you want to create a tranquil atmosphere with subtle color changes or host vibrant outdoor parties with synchronized lighting effects. It offers a high level of control and creativity, but it’s important to plan your setup carefully, considering factors like power requirements, fixture placement, and the programming needed to achieve your desired lighting effects.

How DMX Works

With the integration of DMX automation, PAL Lighting enables you to have complete control over your lighting setup. You can now customize colors and adjust light intensity using a color wheel, giving you access to a wide range of options from the light’s palette. Beyond this, you can create personalized light shows and synchronize them with your Spotify® playlist. This allows you to impress your guests during outdoor entertaining events, as your lights dance in sync with the music, adding a captivating touch to your poolside experience.

When it comes to pool and landscape lighting, choosing modern solutions from reputable partners like PAL Lighting is essential. Whether you’re building a new pool, undergoing renovations, or simply replacing a pool light, investing in advanced lighting technology will enhance the aesthetics and ambiance of your outdoor space.

Now we know that there are multiple different versions of DMX, but let’s focus on the way it works. Essentially it is a remote control that allows you to operate lights across your backyard at the same time. You’re able to control a lot more than just turning the lights on and off. For example, you can also change the color, brightness, and parameters of the lights.

Pal Lighting’s DMX automation technology represents a significant milestone in the realm of lighting control systems. By introducing instant color as a key differentiator, Pal Lighting empowers lighting professionals to achieve unprecedented levels of creativity and efficiency. The capability to switch colors instantly, along with seamless integration, effortless customization, and unmatched control, sets their technology apart from competitors and positions Pal Lighting as an industry leader.

With the power of Pal Lighting’s DMX automation technology at their fingertips, lighting professionals can unleash their imagination, creating awe-inspiring experiences that leave audiences spellbound. As the world of lighting continues to evolve, Pal Lighting remains at the forefront, illuminating the path toward a brighter and more captivating future.

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Rooftop pools and spas are a frequently requested amenity for discerning commercial clientele. While notoriously difficult to design, fabricate and install; the demand for rooftop water features has only increased over the past few decades. Consequently, there are few companies taking on projects of the level of scale and complexity as Diamond Spas.

Owners Stephanie & Tom Bennett started the company back in 1996 with an initial focus on custom baths. Quickly they began to attract attention with their product line. By 1999 they began manufacturing swimming pools, spas, and custom water features. Fast forward to today and Diamond Spas have become one of the elite manufacturers in the industry.

Rooftop Pools & Spa Projects

Known for their stunning rooftop pools, their products can be found in the most affluent hotels, commercial buildings, high-end homes, and yes; even mega-yachts. To get a better understanding of why Diamond Spas has become a preferred choice for rooftop pools, we met with Design Manager – Mitch Martinek.

Quite often, Martinek is the point person on the project working with customers, as well as builders, architects, and engineers. Consequently, he has personally been involved in the design and execution of numerous rooftop pool and spa projects over the course of his career.

“Some of the rooftop pool installations of note that we’ve collaborated in include the Yellow Stone Club in Big Sky, Montana, the Atlantic Residence for Post Brothers, and Woodward Lofts in St. Louis, just to name a few,” said Martinek.

In the course of our discussion, Martinek let us know the reasons why consumers might opt for a stainless steel vessel when planning a rooftop pool project.

Factors To Consider With a Rooftop Pool Installation

“When you’re dealing with rooftop installations, weight is definitely a factor,” said Martinek, “you’re able to get a larger water surface area using a lightweight shell like a stainless steel vessel as opposed to a heavier concrete gunite vessel.”

Weight and stress factors are crucial issues in rooftop swimming pools. There are risks to placing water above any structure. The framework must support the weight of the water as well as the pool itself. Martinek, let us know that this is one of the primary reasons many consumers opt for a stainless steel vessel when building a rooftop pool.

“A stainless steel vessel allows for a larger body of water with more features and more capacity than you’d get with your typical concrete gunite rooftop pool installation,” said Martinek.

Movement in the ground and depreciation of building fabrication are the most common causes of building and substructure movement. Concrete pools are vulnerable due to their rigidity and propensity to crack. When compared to concrete, stainless steel provides a higher degree of durability and enables for watertight welded manufacturing.

Martinek explained that rooftop pool installations can be tricky due to access issues. When planning a pool installation project, obviously time is of the issue. Many consumers opt for a prefabricated pool that can be installed in one piece thereby reducing the amount of time and money spent on-site during construction.

“One of the benefits of our process is we build everything here. We can be working in parallel with the on-site construction avoiding delays while the pool is being fabricated at our facility,” said Martinek.

A key reason that commercial consumers might opt for an off-site pool manufacturing process is the ease of integration and an abbreviated installation time. “We crane it right into position right on the rooftop,” said Martinek.

Given that rooftops create a higher degree of difficulty, it serves to reason that even though the process is easier in terms of time and installation, just getting the product onto the roof can be 90% of the job. The logistic problem of craning the vessel into place is one that Martinek is all too familiar with. Particularly on projects that have custom and unique requirements.

“I’m working on a current project right now in Sandpoint, ID. It’s a high-end condo, new build. One of the complexities there is that the pool was an afterthought. It’s a rooftop combination pool and spa. They already had set design parameters as far as the foundational slab that it could go on but they wanted to expand on that. We had to find a new way to do our framing to work with their current on-site rooftop conditions. There were degrees of complexity as far as point loading on top of their existing structure, and to get the size of the vessel they wanted.”

The Future is Here: Working With Acrylic

Despite the difficulties, that condo project is slated for completion this summer will have tenants living in the building by next year. While primarily known for their stainless steel vessels, Diamond Spas has quickly been building a reputation for acrylic vessels as well.

“Acrylic is becoming the new fad,” said Martinek, “it’s a new way of showcasing the vessel at the residence; whether it’s a high rise with a bottom acrylic viewing window or side viewing window. We can even do infinity edge acrylics, really the sky’s the limit.”

“We’ve come up with our own proprietary way of mechanically fastening these acrylic windows so we can install them at our facility on-site so that no extra installation is needed once the vessel is set. This provides the customer with the peace of mind that the vessel is leakproof and done right,” said Martinek.

“One large acrylic project we worked on was the GuestHouse at the Dream Hotel in New York City,” said Martinek, “definitely an extensive design phase and coordination with their team as far as the bottom viewing acrylic and then all of the surrounding finishes with a spiral staircase, acrylic window on the top with the wood surround. That was definitely a unique project.”

GuestHouse at Dream Downtown from Dream Hotels on Vimeo.

“Each project presents its own unique set of challenges and its own way of viewing,” said Martinek, “acrylic presents a different way of enjoying your spa, your pool and your water features. It gives you insight into the water, and then at night time, it becomes another great feature with the lighting interior and exterior of your pool really shines through that acrylic and brings out the finish of the stainless steel or copper.”

Rooftop Pool Trends

Many rooftop pools we see these days are part of an overall design plan that incorporates the pool as well as other outdoor living amenities such as a sauna and spa. A trend that Martinek acknowledged has been developing with many clients. “A lot of the higher-end builds are adding a sauna, spa and cold plunge in their gym or master bathroom suites.”

Bringing the outdoors indoors is another popular trend Diamond Spas has incorporated into many new projects. Consequently, there has also been a shift towards incorporating elements of hot and cold therapy. “We’re seeing a lot of indoor spas, cold plunges for commercial and residential use,” said Martinek.

Final Thoughts

With a bevy of material options to choose from these days, the look and stylized aesthetic for rooftop pools can be as unique as the design itself. The fact that Diamond Spas provides all of these selections and the expertise and support to ensure a flawless installation makes it clear why they are consistently recognized as a leading manufacturer of rooftop pools and spas.

Listen to our entire discussion with Mitch Martinek of Diamond Spas on the Pool Magazine podcast.

Featured Photo Credit: Diamond Spas – Post Brothers / The Atlantic Building, Philadelphia, PA. Photographer – Basel Almisshal

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