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Traditional pool tile is blue, but there are so many other options. Check out the stone-look tile on this spa spillover. #onioncreek #austinpools #austinbackyard #austinbuilder #austinbusiness #austintx #hillcountry #drippingsprings #drippingspringstx #poolgoals (at Onion Creek) https://www.instagram.com/p/CdEmHPMFovE/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#onioncreek #austinpools #austinbackyard #austinbuilder #austinbusiness #austintx #hillcountry #drippingsprings #drippingspringstx #poolgoals

[poolsharp]

2 plasters on a drizzly Hill Country day! 🌧 Which do you prefer, the moody tones of the Tropics Blue or the classic cream of the Salt & Pepper? #AustinConstruction #DrippingSprings #DSTX #AustinPools #AustinSmallBusiness #FamilyBusiness#BackyardMakeoverInProgress #TexasHillCountry #HillCountryHome #SouthAustin (at Onion Creek) https://www.instagram.com/p/CcoXYVZFKSU/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#austinconstruction #drippingsprings #dstx #austinpools #austinsmallbusiness #familybusiness #backyardmakeoverinprogress #texashillcountry #hillcountryhome #southaustin

[poolsharp]

Tile and coping is like the jewelry for your pool. It’s what pulls everything together. It’s where you really start to see your vision coming to life. 🏊‍♂️ This is the fun stuff… especially when it looks this good 😉 #austinconstruction #drippingsprings #austinpools #austinbusiness #texashillcountry #austinsmallbusiness #familybusiness #dstx #drippingspringstx #backyardmakeoverinprogress (at Dripping Springs, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CbfnI12lJUe/?utm_medium=tumblr

#austinconstruction #drippingsprings #austinpools #austinbusiness #texashillcountry #austinsmallbusiness #familybusiness #dstx #drippingspringstx #backyardmakeoverinprogress

[poolsharp]

Why do they call it a salt finish? 🤔 We literally use good ‘ole rock salt to create a one-of-kind, slip-resistant deck surrounding the pool ~ hand troweled and salted like a work of art. 👨‍🎨 (at East Side Austin) https://www.instagram.com/p/CaqRTM-FEAT/?utm_medium=tumblr

[poolsharp]

Brr… it’s cold out this week, but we’re gearing up for warmer weather! ☀️ It’s great to see this backyard transforming into the oasis we’re creating. 🏊‍♀️ #austinpoolbuilder #austinpools #austinbackyard #austinbuilder #austinbusiness #austintx #hillcountry #drippingsprings #dstx #driftwoodtx (at South Austin) https://www.instagram.com/p/Caa-WSIsN7V/?utm_medium=tumblr

#austinpoolbuilder #austinpools #austinbackyard #austinbuilder #austinbusiness #austintx #hillcountry #drippingsprings #dstx #driftwoodtx

[poolsharp]

What a week! After a productive week of excavation, trenching, plumbing, estimates, designs, and office work with our pup, Mika, keeping us company... now we're off to enjoy this beautiful evening at @twistedxbrewing in Dripping Springs! #pooldesign #austinpools #drippingsprings #dstx #dstxlife #dogsofinstagram #austintx https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ24m-9lG-f/?utm_medium=tumblr

#pooldesign #austinpools #drippingsprings #dstx #dstxlife #dogsofinstagram #austintx

[poolsharp]

Full scale remodel project in Driftwood, TX! 🏊‍♂️😎☀️ . We remodeled the spillway from spa to pool, as well as replaced tile, coping, and interior finish - a much needed upgrade! . We love creating spaces for families to enjoy! . Visit our website for a free phone consult at poolsharptx.com! (Link in profile) (at Driftwood, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CXJrjoKFGZR/?utm_medium=tumblr

[poolsharp]

8 Water Features to Enhance Your Pool or Spa

Water features can be a great way to amplify your pool or spa. Take your pool to the next level with these 8 water features:

Image via Crystal Clear Pool Co. - Spas

Spillover Spas

Spillover spas (aka hot tubs) are a convenient option when you’re already building a pool/spa combo. By simply using a negative or vanishing edge, the water naturally spills over the edge of your raised spa right into your pool and gives you a waterfall.

Image via Houzz.com - Natural Waterfall & Swimming Pool

Waterfalls

Waterfalls are a striking option that any homeowner would be proud to show off. Waterfalls can be modern and sleek or built with larger rocks and boulders to achieve a more natural look.

Image via Trasolini Pools - Water Features for your Swimming Pool

Sheer Descents

Sheer descents are the perfect water features for more modern pools or spas. Sheer descent water features range from less than a foot to several feet in width. They sit flush with the wall they’re built into, providing a clean, smooth look.

Image via Pool Research - Pool Bubblers Design Guide

Bubblers

Bubblers are small fountains that cause the top of the water to bubble just at the surface. These pool features are usually placed in very shallow water. They’re great to give you a little water movement while you’re laying out on a sun shelf or baja shelf. Bubblers can also be paired with lights to really enhance the aesthetic of your pool at night.

Image via Element - Copper Pool Scuppers

Scuppers

Scuppers are a water feature that protrude out from a wall like a chute and can come in many shapes and sizes. These features are typically seen on pools with more of a traditional design. Scuppers actually have a military origin and were once used as drain openings on the sides of ships.

Image via EP Henry - Pool & Spa Designs: The Basics

Laminar Jets

Laminar jets are undisturbed flows of water that arch into your pool. Placing multiple laminar jets along one or multiple walls of a pool can create a luxurious, streaming feature. Check out Pentair’s MagicStream jets - their LED light features allow you to create a custom look with multiple different colors at night.

Image via 13 Different Kinds of Awesome Water Features for Your Backyard

Sconces

A sconce is similar to a scupper, although they are usually more of a decorative feature. There are many options including seashells, lion’s head, and floral designs. Sconce’s usually have a more narrow output of water and are typically installed on pools with traditional design aesthetics.

Image via HGTV - Swimming Pool and Hot Tub With Stone Statuary Fountains

Statuaries

Statuaries can be impressive pieces of functional artwork. Statuary water features come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and themes - ranging from abstract art, faux pots, dolphins, fish, elephants, to dragons. You can get creative with these features and even create a custom made statue to make your pool truly unique.

Reach out to us for a free pool building consultation to LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW TO customize your pool!

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What Pool Shape is Right for You?

You’ve decided you want to build an inground pool! Now it’s time to make decisions about the look and feel of your outdoor space. One of the first things to consider is the shape of your pool. The main factor when deciding on pool shape is the location your swimming pool will be built in. If you have a large plot of land or backyard, this leaves you with many more options. If you’re limited on space, you’ll need to work with your pool designer to get the most efficient use out of it.

Here are 4 popular pool shape options to get your wheels turning: 

Rectangular Geometric Pools

Typically, rectangular pools offer the most efficient use of space. Most backyards are rectangular, and if you’re looking for efficiency and ease, it makes sense to go with a pool that fits right into the shape of your backyard. Geometric pools are a popular choice among homeowners with modern homes, as they blend in well with the sleek, clean lines of a modern aesthetic. Rectangular swimming pools are also the ideal shape for exercise and swimming laps.

Kidney-Shaped Freeform Pools

Kidney-shaped pools are among the most popular freeform pool shapes. They’re the perfect option if you’d like a more natural look. Add some rock work and planter beds around the perimeter and you can really create the look of a natural lagoon or oasis. The shape allows for an organic flow from the shallow end to the deep end of your swimming pool. Freeform pools are great if you’re mostly looking to just lounge and swim recreationally. Steps can be tucked away in the smaller pocket to allow ample swimming room.

L-Shaped Geometric Pools

L-shaped pools are an offshoot of a rectangular design and combine the best of both worlds, affording you the ability to swim laps and a designated area for lounging. They’re an ideal shape if you’d like a big sun shelf, shallow play area, or seating area without taking space away from the deeper swimming area. With the added space you get with an L-shape, they’re also a great option for placement around or near the corner of your home.

Classic Roman Pools

Roman pools exude luxury, symmetry, and balance. These pools are a blend of geometric and freeform shapes with rectangular edges and a semi-circle on each end. The semi-circles can include steps, a sun shelf, or a spa or hot tub to create a pool/spa combo. Roman pools typically use carefully selected materials and decorative accents to achieve a very specific aesthetic. Roman pools often include beautiful tile mosaics at the bottom of the pool for a luxurious feel.

Whether you’re still in the planning phase or have already decided on your pool shape, we can help you create a full custom design to bring your vision to life. In addition to pool shape, there are multiple design decisions to make along the way. Our pool design team works with you to help you make these decisions based on your unique needs and aesthetic.

Reach out to us for a free pool building consultation to get started!

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Patriotic Poolside Recipes | July 4th

Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, hanging by the pool, or floating a Texas river, the 4th of July is sure to bring fun, sun, and great company. Still need a few festive food and drink recipes to help you celebrate the 4th this year? We’ve got you covered with some of our favorites — most from local Austin bloggers!

Breakfast

Coconut Whip Chia Pudding with berries

By LivvyLand

We often make a version of this chia breakfast pudding before heading off for a day filled with client meetings and pool inspections. It’s so easy to make ahead, and a great one if you have company coming to stay this weekend! All it takes is a mixture of chia seeds, maple syrup, almond milk, bananas, and blueberries. Austin Blogger, Olivia, shares a super simple coconut whip recipe too. For a patriotic flair, add some raspberries or strawberries, and you’re all set for an easy, healthy breakfast to start your day.

Lunch

Watermelon Wedge Salad with Feta

by Natalie Paramore

It just wouldn’t be Independence Day without some juicy watermelon. We love the simplicity of this recipe — made up of watermelon, arugula, and feta with a light lemon olive oil dressing. Serve alongside your favorite sandwich for a balanced lunch.

Dinner

“Papa Hutch” Style Ribs

by Jon George

If you’re not grilling, are you even celebrating?! This year, we’re going with a good buddy’s rib recipe.

Purchase a rack of good quality pork ribs.

Peel off the membrane.

Trim any unwanted/excess fat off the meat.

Rub lightly with olive oil so seasoning sticks.

Season to your liking with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fajita seasoning of your choice.

Crank up the grill as hot as possible — around 500 degrees or hotter.

Place the ribs on the grill — bone up — and leave until the top side is nicely seared and slightly blackened.

Flip the ribs and sear the backside, taking care not to burn.

Pull ribs off the grill and immediately wrap with heavy duty aluminum foil. Do this as quickly as possible so you don’t lose any heat. Be careful though — they’ll be super hot! If you were a little too slow and lost too much heat in the process, you can always set the ribs back on the grill in the foil for a few minutes.

Once wrapped, immediately place the ribs straight into a well-sealing cooler — something heavy duty like a Yeti works best. You can also place something heavy on top of the lid to create an even tighter seal.

Leave in cooler for at least an hour — the longer the better.

Tip: As long as your cooler can hold them, you can cook more than one rack of ribs at the same time with this recipe. Just throw the second rack on top of the first rack, and you’re good to go.

Dessert

4th of July Ice Cream Sandwiches

by Eating on a Dime

These are great for when you want a themed treat but don’t have the time to invest in creating something homemade. Just take your favorite brand of store bought ice cream sandwiches and dip all sides in red, white, and blue sprinkles. You can refreeze or serve immediately. So simple!

Cocktail

Watermelon Mint Spritzer

by Swift Wellness

Talk about refreshing! This watermelon spritzer is sure to be a hit. What makes it even better is the use of ingredients from local, Austin-based companies — Waterloo and Tito’s. Just blend up some seedless watermelon to create a puree, add your mint and your alcohol, top with your sparkling water and a little lime, and you’ve got a craft cocktail to satisfy the masses.

Here’s to wishing you and yours a Happy 4th of July. Cheers!

Comment below to let us know which recipes you’ll be trying this holiday!

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6 Pool Features to Create a Custom Backyard Experience

At Pool Sharp, we specialize in custom, luxury swimming pools and spas, aka hot tubs. One of the ways we add this customization is through pool features. These additions allow you to make your aquatic space unique to your lifestyle and personality. No two pools are the exact same, and you can use some of these features to create a pool that truly stands out from the rest.

WATER FEATURES

Water features create soothing sounds that add value to your outdoor vibe. Sheer descents, scuppers, sconces, and bubblers are popular water features to consider for your new pool. A spillover waterfall from your spa into your pool or a negative edge can transform your pool from a structure to a work of art. The sleekness of a negative edge or infinity pool is especially beautiful when paired with a nice view.

SWIM-UP BAR

Become the envy of your friends and family with a swim-up bar. This feature requires a clever design that places the bar area sunken beneath the water level of the pool, resulting in a cozy kitchen and bar that you’ll want to show off. There’s no better way to entertain.

ROCK WORK

Well thought out rock placements around your pool deck can give it a natural look and feel. Rock grottos are small caves, often featuring a waterfall, that are very popular features for pools with a more natural design. Natural rock can also be used as steps up to a raised pool or spa.

SUN SHELF

The sun shelf, also known as a baja shelf, is quickly becoming one of the more popular features added to Texas pools. This is a great option for those who’d like to get more diversified use from their pool. Sun shelves create a resort feel for those who love to sunbathe and relax. With the right lounge chair, you can be lying in the pool in only a couple inches of water. Add a bubbler to your sun shelf to drown out the world around you or create a space for young kiddos to splash and play. 

Pool ISLANDS

Pool islands can be a smaller alternative to a sun shelf or home to a striking landscape display for plant lovers. They’re also a great place to relax around or a central hub for pool games. Whether to sunbathe or just set a drink, islands create a more complex aesthetic.

FLOATING STEPS

If your pool happens to create a little inconvenience in your backyard, floating steps can connect one side of your yard or house to the other. Steps aren’t only for convenience, they also add aesthetic appeal to your pool and outdoor space with water flowing in and around your steps.

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Why We Love the Texas Hill Country

You can ask any native Texan where the Hill Country is and get several different answers. To us, the heart of the Hill Country is where we call home and where we build pools for Texas families. South Austin, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, San Marcos, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Westlake Hills, Buda, Kyle, and surrounding areas comprise our Hill Country. 

The landscape is the first evidence that you’re in a unique part of Texas. We take pride in our landscape and our environment. The rolling hills, cedar trees, striking agaves, and Texas yuccas let you know that you’re home. There’s no better place to watch a sunset than on the peak of a Texas hill.

We’d be lying if we said the climate was great — we all know Texas heat can be the worst. Though, it really helps that there are so many rivers and creeks running through the region. With an abundance of outdoor activities, how you spend your weekend can sometimes be a tough choice. We prefer a dip in the pool or a long river float in the summertime.

A great way to enjoy this region is by visiting the many breweries, wineries, and distilleries in the area. The unofficial “Distillery Capital of Texas” is welcoming to anyone thirsty. With so many to choose from, we make it a goal to visit them all. Once your thirst is quenched, it’s not hard to find some good food, most notably the best BBQ in Texas.

This region offers much that cannot be found anywhere else in Texas. This exclusivity creates a pride amongst the people that live here that is evident by the growth of the region. With all of the growth, we’re excited to see what’s up ahead for us.

Whether it's brewers, distillers, pitmasters, or builders — this area breeds top craftsmanship. The standard of craft in this region pushes us all toward the goal of being the very best. At Pool Sharp, we strive every day to stay amongst the top craftsmen of the Texas Hill Country. 

We start with unique design by creating one-of-a-kind pools. Because we’re passionate about this area’s landscape, we often incorporate your pool design into your property. Our goal is for your pool to blend in seamlessly to your landscape and add to the natural beauty.

Our ingenuity doesn’t end with design. We build pools of the highest standard. We partner with some of the best craftsmen around and make it a priority to source local materials and labor. When you watch someone who really knows what they’re doing install glass tile or set stone pool coping, you’ll see why we call it an art.

As always, we believe in building pools the right way for the people of our community.

Ready to add to your Hill Country landscape with a quality pool?

Contact us today for a free consultation.

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Pool Sharp Company Values

At Pool Sharp, we operate under a specific set of company values. They guide everything from our day-to-day operations to making big decisions about our long-term company vision. Our company values center around effective communication, quality relationships, community responsibility, reliability, and industry know-how.

Communication is key.

We know that when it comes to pool building and design, communication is the most important thing to help make your vision come to life. We strive to be as open and communicative as possible throughout the entire process. Our design and construction team is transparent with clients from cost estimates to timeline, as well as throughout each phase of construction. As a Pool Sharp client, you will be in the know about what is going beyond your back door each day.

We ask the right questions.

Being a custom pool builder means that we need to get to know your tastes so that we can do our job well. We use answers from the right questions to understand your vision. We recognize that building a pool or spa comes with a lot of choices and decisions to make when, and we offer you guidance when making decisions on everything from tile options to pool lighting.

Our design process doesn’t end until you’re completely satisfied.

Building a pool, spa, or outdoor space is a large investment. It’s something you need to feel great about before we ever break ground. That’s why our design services include unlimited design changes and tweaks up until that point. Questions, thoughts, and ideas are always welcomed and encouraged. The more you know about our process, the smoother it goes for us and for you.

We go beyond industry standards.

As a company, we value up-to-date new technologies and methods for inground pool construction, pool design, and client convenience. We keep our operations above and beyond industry standards, leading to advantages for you as a client. You can have the confidence that your project will be quality and long-lasting for many years to come.

We bring sustainability to the forefront.

Always environmentally conscious, we understand the importance of sustainability. The construction industry can be a dirty one, but we believe there are steps we can take to clean it up a bit. Many pool companies in the industry are unconcerned, but we believe in community responsibility. Pool Sharp recycles or reuses byproducts of construction projects including: wood, wood pallets, cardboard, and plastic. We source local materials and maximize planning of equipment use and processes on jobsites to reduce emissions. We aim to curb construction waste and reduce our carbon footprint.

We build pools because we enjoy it and because we seek to help families have meaningful experiences centered around a beautiful outdoor space. It’s a way to get creative and provide joy to our clients. Our satisfaction comes from our clients’ satisfaction. We find that when you work hard to bring a project to fruition, you’ll appreciate the final result even more.

Beautiful projects bring immense satisfaction all around, and that’s what we chase at Pool Sharp.

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