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Houston Cool Pools
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Pool Terminology

Pool Definitions

A quick-reference glossary of the pool construction and equipment terms you\u2019ll hear from your builder. Looking for the full A\u2013Z? See the Pool Glossary.

B

Beam

The upper section of the vertical wall of a gunite pool or spa. A “raised beam” is one that extends above ground level.
B

Blower

An electrical unit that generates air pressure to provide the spa jets with bubbles.
C

Cantilever Edge

A pool deck of a poured or sprayed material that extends slightly beyond the edge of the pool, negating the need for traditional coping.
C

Cartridge Filter

A filtration system that uses a fine mesh material to remove suspended contaminants from the water. Requires a 30-minute cleaning with a garden hose six to ten times per year.
C

Chlorinator

A unit that holds chlorine tablets and automatically treats the water.
C

Coping

Material that covers the first nine to twelve inches of horizontal surface at the pool’s edge. It can be brick, flagstone, concrete, or one of many natural or man-made materials.
D

Deck

Patio that is attached to the pool itself. Typical materials and finishes include brushed concrete, spray concrete, cool deck, sundeck, flagstone, and pea gravel. The deck often accounts for 20–30% of a pool budget.
D

DE Filter

Filtration system that uses a layer of fine powder (diatomaceous earth) to remove contaminants from the water. Requires a ten-minute backwashing process about once a month, accomplished by adjusting the valves. The DE powder is relatively inexpensive but must be replaced after each back-washing.

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Over 100 pool and spa terms with plain-English explanations.

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Houston Cool Pools

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