Charles Elfert

Charles Elfert is the President of Pleasure Pools – a New Orleans pool company since 1994. Pleasure Pools designs and builds custom pools as well as helping pool owners maintain their pools through education and teaching.
Swimming Pools: Chlorine or Salt – Which is Best?

Swimming Pools: Chlorine or Salt – Which is Best?

ByCharles Elfert

At Pleasure Pools, we have installed “Salt-Water” pools exclusively for over 30 years now, so we may be somewhat prejudiced, but we believe that our success with this method is based on very sound scientific principles. First let me dispel the misconception that “Chlorine” pools are drastically different than “Salt-Water” pools. Both are using chlorine as a disinfectant and algaecide. The difference is the way that chlorine is introduced into the water. Salt-Water pools use an electronic device to separate sodium chloride (NaCl) Into sodium and chlorine. The positive and negative electronic plates in the “Cell” cause the electronic bond between the sodium and the salt to be broken, freeing up elemental Chlorine into your water.  As in most chemical reactions, there are residual effects. Without getting too technical,…

Is a Gunite Pool Better Than a Fiberglass or Vinyl Pool?

Is a Gunite Pool Better Than a Fiberglass or Vinyl Pool?

ByCharles Elfert

The question of gunite pools versus fiberglass or vinyl pools has come up many times in my 50-year career. My experience at Pleasure Pools is unique, since I have built all three types, and I know all the installation techniques and the pluses and minuses. Often to validate my position that gunite is the best option, I will ask the client to find out what types of pools are most prevalent in their area.  If the area is relatively flat, high ground, with a low water-table, there could be a fairly even mix of all three types. If, on the other hand, the water-table is high, water intrusion makes installation of fiberglass and vinyl much more complicated. If there are considerable differences in elevation, pools out of the…

New Swimming Pool

Pool Construction 101: 7 Things to Do Before You Start

ByCharles Elfert

Having a pool installed is a major investment in your property, and a great deal of care should be taken before the construction begins. There is so much to choose from and so much information at our fingertips today, that it is very wise to take the time to investigate all options available.

#1. Decide on the Construction method to employ:

There are 3 basic construction methods used to install an in-ground pool. Each has its own benefits and limitations. Where you live does affect the availability and the practicality of the type of pool you may choose. The three types are: Gunite, Fiberglass & Vinyl.

Great Pool Contractors

11 Characteristics of Great Pool Contractors

ByCharles Elfert

Instead of spending another year shuttling back and forth to the local pool, it may be time to talk to pool contractors about having one installed in your own backyard. Having a pool put in is a major project, though, and you want to be sure to hire the best pool builder possible for the job.

Why You Should Hire a Contractor for Your Pool Project
While there has been a lot of talk on the internet about homeowners building their own pools, there are plenty of reasons you should hire a contractor.

They Have Experience
Pool builders generally have years of experience in designing and installing custom pools. That is something that most homeowners simply can’t say.

When there are aspects of the project, they cannot complete in-house, they know which professionals to use to get it done right the first time.

Backyard Needing Pool Installation

Beat the Heat! 4 Ways to Get Your Property Ready for Swimming Pool Installation

ByCharles Elfert

Adding a pool to your backyard can be an incredibly exciting prospect. It will give you a place to cool down in the summer, to exercise, and to entertain guests or hold birthday parties for the kids. Before the swimming pool installation occurs, however, there are some things you’ll need to do to get your property ready.

Swimming Pool Installation Considerations
1. Make Sure the Pool Will Fit
The size and decking on your pool will be determined by how much space you have in your backyard. You may have visions of an Olympic-sized pool, but if you don’t have the space, too large a pool will not look good or function properly.

You may also think that you’re going to get a really deep swimming pool, but if there are ground issues or bedrock, you may be limited in what you can choose.

Pleasure Pools building

Home Field Advantage: 6 Surprising Benefits That Come When You Look for “Pool Construction Companies Near Me”

ByCharles Elfert

When summer is in full swing and you find yourself sweating and miserable in the intense heat, the first thought that may run through your mind is taking a dip in a pool. This can be a great way to cool off and get in some exercise, but dealing with crowds can be a hassle at best. That’s when it’s a good idea to look for “pool construction companies near me.”

Benefits of Looking for “Pool Construction Companies Near Me”
There are so many advantages to having your own pool: not having to deal with strangers or crowded public places is just the most obvious. There are some other benefits you’ll discover as soon as you look for “pool construction companies near me.”

Top 5 Most Common Mistakes Pool Owners Make

Top 5 Most Common Mistakes Pool Owners Make

ByCharles Elfert

When the weather heats up there is no better place to cool off and relax than your own swimming pool and the memories created with you, your children, and eventually your grandchildren are certainly priceless. Just as most things in life that are valuable and enjoyable, ownership comes with a price and a responsibility. Today, however, with a properly designed and outfitted pool, the seemingly endless tasks of old have long been eliminated by technology that has automated many processes. We employ all that are available and they are included in our basic package, but still there are items beyond our control. If you are not inclined to do these or don’t have the time, we do offer weekly service and we can ensure that all the following are tended to: #1….

Swimming Pool Water

Managing Swimming Pool Water Like a Pro

ByCharles Elfert

The big day has come – your pool construction is finished and it’s time to start swimming! And to get the most out of your pool, there are some important things you should know about managing the water in your pool.

Filling your pool for the first time
One of the first mistakes people make may be a costly one. When it’s time to fill the pool, we recommend having a soft cloth tied to the end of the hose to diffuse the water pressure as your pool fills. Why? This prevents having too much water pressure on a particular spot in the plaster and risking a crack!

The hose end should be placed on the main drain grate in the deep end of your…

Pool Water Chemistry

Pool Water Chemistry Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

ByCharles Elfert

Maintaining good quality water is crucial in order to get maximum enjoyment from your pool and keep maintenance issues to a minimum. And while every pool is different, this guide to pool water chemistry will teach you what to look for and help you avoid common mistakes which can cause problems with your water. What is pH? Simply speaking, pH is a measure of how acidic or how alkaline your water is. On this scale that runs from “0” to “14”, a reading of “7” indicates that your water is neutral (neither acidic nor alkaline). As the reading gets below “7”, the water becomes increasingly acidic and as it rises above “7”, it becomes increasingly alkaline. The recommended pH is slightly alkaline, or 7.4-7.6. The…

Pool Plaster

Pool Plaster 101

ByCharles Elfert

Everything You Need to Know
Of the many materials that go into building an in-ground pool – few get more attention than plaster. Plaster is the exterior shell of your pool and is the part that everyone sees and touches. As such it also is the first place that people usually start to notice cracks, discoloration or other problems.

Over the years we have learned some important tips regarding the maintenance and care for your pool’s plaster that will help keep it in top condition.

New Plaster Maintenance
Your pool builder will add the chemicals that are required for the initial balancing of your water. Brushing the plaster with the nylon-bristle brush…