As the days get longer and temperatures start to rise, spring is the perfect time to give your pool the attention it needs before summer arrives. After months of cooler weather and less frequent use, your pool likely needs a refresh to get it back to sparkling, swim-ready condition. A thorough spring cleaning not only improves the look of your pool, but also helps ensure it runs efficiently and stays safe for your family and guests with the approaching warmer weather.
Start with a Full Inspection
Before diving into cleaning, take a few minutes to inspect your pool and equipment. Look for any visible damage such as cracks, loose tiles, or worn seals. Check your pump, filter, and heater to make sure everything is functioning properly. Catching small issues early can help prevent costly repairs down the road. It may even be a good time to consider updating tile, coping and a replaster to get ready for summer.
Clean Out Debris
Over time, leaves, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in your pool. Start by skimming the surface and removing any floating debris. Then empty your skimmer and pump baskets (remember to do this weekly or more often if you have a lot of trees or plants that drop debris near your pool). If debris has settled at the bottom, use a pool vacuum to give the floor a thorough cleaning, or make sure that your infloor cleaning system is catching all of this debris on its’ own.
Brush and Scrub Surfaces
Algae and buildup can form on pool walls, steps, and tile lines during the off-season. Use a pool brush to scrub these areas and prevent staining or slippery surfaces. Pay extra attention to corners and shaded spots where algae tends to grow.
Check and Balance Your Water Chemistry
Proper water chemistry is key to a clean, safe pool. Test your water and adjust as needed to bring everything back into balance. Focus on pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels. If levels are off, your pool can become cloudy, irritating, or even unsafe to swim in.
Clean or Backwash Your Filter
Your pool filter plays a major role in keeping water clear. Depending on your system, you may need to clean or backwash the filter to remove built-up debris. A clean filter improves circulation and helps your pool stay cleaner longer.
Shock the Pool if Needed
If your pool has been sitting unused, shocking it can help eliminate bacteria and contaminants. This process gives your water a fresh start and helps restore clarity.
Inspect Water Levels
Spring rains or evaporation can affect your pool’s water level. Make sure it sits at the proper level for optimal skimmer performance and circulation.
Set Yourself Up for the Season
Once your pool is clean and balanced, set a regular maintenance routine to keep it in top shape throughout the warmer months. Consistency is key to avoiding bigger issues later.
Let Cody Pools Handle It for You
If you’d rather spend your time enjoying your pool instead of maintaining it, Cody Pools has you covered. Our team offers professional weekly pool cleaning services to keep your water crystal clear and your system running smoothly all season long. From chemical balancing to routine cleaning, we take care of the details so you can focus on relaxing in your backyard oasis.
When designing a custom pool, it’s often the small details that make the biggest impact. Two popular features homeowners consider today are tanning shelves and beach entries. Both add beauty, functionality, and a resort-style feel while serving different purposes.
If you’re deciding between the two, understanding how each works (and who they’re best for) can help you make the right choice for your backyard.
What Is a Tanning Shelf?
A tanning shelf, aka a tanning ledge or Baja shelf or tanning ledge, is a wide, shallow platform typically placed at the entry of a pool. It’s usually submerged in 6-8 inches of water, making it perfect for relaxing without fully submerging.
Pros of a Tanning Shelf
1. Ideal for Relaxation Tanning shelves are designed for lounging. Add a couple of in-water chairs or loungers, and you’ve got the perfect place to unwind.
2. Great for Families The shallow depth makes it a safe, enjoyable space for young children to splash and play while staying within arm’s reach.
3. Compact & Space-Efficient Unlike a beach entry, tanning shelves don’t take up much room, making them a great option for smaller backyards.
4. Customizable Features You can enhance a tanning shelf with:
Bubblers
Umbrella sleeves
Accent tile or lighting
Cons of a Tanning Shelf
1. Limited Entry Functionality While you can step onto it, it’s not designed to gradually ease you into the pool like a beach entry.
2. Fixed Depth Most tanning shelves are a consistent shallow depth, which may not appeal to those wanting a gradual transition.
What Is a Beach Entry?
A beach entry, aka zero-entry pool, mimics the natural slope of a shoreline. Instead of steps, the pool floor gradually slopes from dry land into deeper water.
Pros of a Beach Entry
1. Resort-Style Aesthetic Beach entries create a high-end, luxurious look that instantly elevates your backyard.
2. Easy Accessibility With no steps or ledges, beach entries are ideal for:
Young children
Older adults
Anyone wanting a smooth, gradual entry
3. Natural Feel The gradual slope offers a more organic, lagoon-style experience.
Cons of a Beach Entry
1. Requires More Space Beach entries take up significantly more square footage than a tanning shelf, which may not be ideal for smaller yards.
2. Higher Cost Because of the additional design complexity and surface area, beach entries typically come at a higher price point.
3. Less Defined Lounging Area While you can sit or relax on the slope, it doesn’t offer the same dedicated lounging space as a tanning shelf.
Key Differences at a Glance
Feature
Tanning Shelf
Beach Entry
Depth
Shallow, consistent
Gradual slope
Space Required
Minimal
Larger footprint
Best For
Lounging & relaxing
Easy entry & aesthetics
Cost
Moderate
Higher
Accessibility
Moderate
Excellent
Which One Is Right for You?
The decision ultimately comes down to how you plan to use your pool.
Choose a tanning shelf if you want a dedicated space to lounge, relax, and enjoy the water without taking up too much room.
Choose a beach entry if you’re aiming for a resort-style look and want the most accessible, gradual entry possible.
In some cases, homeowners even incorporate both elements into a custom design for the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts
Both tanning shelves and beach entries can transform your pool into a more functional and visually stunning space. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, and how you envision using your backyard.
If you’re still unsure which option fits your vision, working with an experienced pool designer can help bring everything into focus and ensure your pool is designed perfectly for the way you live.
When designing a custom swimming pool, choosing the right pool finish is one of the most important decisions. The finish impacts your pool’s appearance, durability, maintenance, and overall swimming experience. Pebble finishes and PebbleTec pool surfaces offer unmatched beauty, longevity, and performance, making them a top choice for homeowners.
What Are Pebble Pool Finishes?
A pebble pool finish is made by combining natural stones with cement to create a textured, long-lasting surface. Unlike traditional plaster, pebble finishes are highly durable and provide a sparkling, natural look in the water.
Benefits of a pebble pool finish include:
Durability: Resistant to chipping, cracking, and chemical wear.
Slip-resistance: Safer for families, kids, and frequent swimmers.
Low maintenance: Resists algae, staining, and fading over time.
Customizable appearance: Available in a wide variety of colors and textures to complement any backyard design.
Why PebbleTec Pools Are the Premium Choice
PebbleTec is one of the leading options for durable pool finishes, blending natural river pebbles, cement, and colored pigments to create a luxurious, long-lasting surface.
Top advantages of a PebbleTec pool finish include:
Exceptional longevity: Can last 20+ years with proper care.
Smooth and comfortable surface: Pebbles provide subtle texture without being rough on feet.
Vibrant, fade-resistant colors: Maintains its beauty even with heavy sun exposure and pool chemicals.
Low maintenance: Reduces the need for resurfacing or frequent repairs.
Eco-friendly options: Made with natural, environmentally conscious materials.
Choosing the Right Pool Finish for Your Home
When selecting a pool finish, consider:
Aesthetic preference: Pebble finishes range from earthy, natural tones to bright, modern colors.
Budget vs. durability: Premium finishes like PebbleTec may have a higher upfront cost but save money long-term through durability and lower maintenance.
Pool usage: Families, kids, and frequent swimmers benefit from the slip-resistant and long-lasting qualities of pebble finishes.
Why Pebble Pool Finishes Are Ideal for Any Pool
Whether you’re building a residential or luxury pool, a pebble pool finish or PebbleTec finish provides unmatched durability, comfort, and visual appeal. These finishes offer a high-end look while standing up to everyday use, ensuring your pool stays beautiful and functional for years to come.
Conclusion
Investing in a high-quality pool finish is essential for creating a long-lasting, stunning swimming pool. Pebble finishes and PebbleTec combine durability, low maintenance, and luxurious aesthetics, making them the perfect choice for homeowners looking to elevate their backyard oasis.
At Cody Pools, we specialize in designing custom swimming pools with premium finishes that last. Contact us today to explore our pebble and PebbleTec pool finishes and bring your dream pool to life.
Building a pool in the Texas Hill Country can create one of the most stunning backyard environments in the state. With rolling hills, scenic overlooks, and beautiful natural stone, properties in this region are perfect for outdoor living spaces that take full advantage of the landscape.
However, building a pool in the Hill Country is very different from building in flatter areas of Texas. The steep terrain, rocky limestone soil, and unique drainage conditions create construction challenges that require specialized experience.
If you’re considering building a pool in the Texas Hill Country, choosing a pool builder who understands these conditions is essential to ensure your pool is structurally sound, properly engineered, and built to last.
The Challenges of Building a Pool in the Texas Hill Country
The natural beauty that makes the Hill Country so desirable is also what makes construction more complex. Elevation changes, rock-heavy soil, and rural access points can all impact how a pool is designed and built.
An experienced builder understands how to work with these conditions to create a safe and long-lasting pool.
Sloped Terrain Requires Careful Engineering
Many Hill Country homes sit on sloped or uneven lots. While this provides incredible views, it also means the pool must be carefully engineered to handle elevation differences.
Building a pool on a hillside may require:
Structural retaining walls
Reinforced pool shells
Precise grading and leveling
Terraced pool decks and outdoor living areas
Without proper engineering, a pool built on sloped terrain can experience structural stress, shifting, or drainage issues over time. Experienced pool builders design pools that work with the landscape rather than against it.
Rocky Limestone Soil Makes Excavation More Complex
One of the most well-known challenges of building a pool in the Texas Hill Country is the abundance of limestone rock beneath the surface.
Excavation in these areas often involves:
Heavy-duty excavation equipment
Rock saws or hydraulic breakers
Longer dig times compared to softer soils
This rocky soil can significantly affect both the construction timeline and the engineering requirements of the pool shell. Builders familiar with Hill Country construction know how to safely and efficiently excavate through rock while protecting the structural integrity of the pool.
Drainage Planning Is Critical
Hill Country soil tends to be shallow and rocky, which means rainwater moves quickly across the surface instead of soaking into the ground. When combined with sloped terrain, this creates rapid runoff during storms.
Without proper drainage planning, water can collect around the pool or erode surrounding soil.
A well-designed Hill Country pool project includes:
Strategic grading around the pool deck
Proper deck drainage systems
Runoff management and erosion control
Professional builders design drainage systems that direct water safely away from the pool and surrounding structures.
Limited Access Can Affect Construction
Many Hill Country homes are located on large rural properties with limited access for heavy construction equipment. Narrow driveways, steep grades, and dense trees can make construction logistics more complicated.
An experienced pool builder evaluates the property carefully before construction begins to determine the best equipment access points and staging areas. This planning helps prevent unnecessary disruption to the property and keeps the project running smoothly.
Why Experience Matters When Building in the Hill Country
Because of the unique terrain and soil conditions, building a pool in the Texas Hill Country requires more than standard construction practices.
Experienced builders understand how to:
Engineer pools for sloped landscapes
Excavate safely through rocky limestone
Design drainage systems for rapid runoff
Plan construction logistics for rural properties
Build structurally reinforced pool shells
Working with a builder who regularly constructs pools in the Hill Country helps prevent costly surprises during excavation and construction.
Designing Pools That Complement the Landscape
While the terrain presents challenges, it also creates opportunities for incredible pool designs. Hill Country pools often incorporate natural stone, tiered decks, and elevated features that blend beautifully with the surrounding environment.
Popular Hill Country pool features include:
Infinity edge pools overlooking the hills
Elevated spas and water features
Terraced patios and outdoor kitchens
Natural stone coping and decking
Fire features and scenic seating areas
When designed correctly, these elements create a backyard that feels naturally integrated with the property.
Build Your Texas Hill Country Pool With Confidence
Building a pool in the Texas Hill Country requires careful planning, specialized engineering, and a construction team that understands the region’s unique conditions.
From rocky limestone excavation to hillside structural design, every step of the process must be handled with experience and precision.
At Cody Pools, our team has extensive experience building custom pools throughout Texas, including projects in the challenging terrain of the Hill Country. With the right design and construction approach, your property’s natural beauty can become the foundation for a truly exceptional outdoor living space.
When most people picture a luxury swimming pool, they imagine a sprawling backyard with endless space to work with. The reality is that many homeowners today are building in tighter lots, urban neighborhoods, or master planned communities where space is limited.
The good news is that a small backyard does not mean small potential. With thoughtful design, smart engineering, and creative features, a compact space can become a stunning outdoor retreat that feels intentional, elevated, and highly functional.
At Cody Pools, we believe great design is not about size. It is about how every square foot works together.
Start With Smart Design, Not Just Dimensions
The biggest mistake homeowners make with small backyards is trying to shrink a large pool design to fit the space. Instead, the design should begin with the lot itself.
Key considerations include:
Property lines and setback requirements
Easements and utility locations
Drainage and grading
Access for construction
Sight lines from inside the home
A well designed small pool should feel proportional to both the backyard and the architecture of the home. Clean lines, geometric shapes, and thoughtful placement often work best in tighter spaces.
Choose the Right Pool Style for a Compact Space
Certain pool styles naturally lend themselves to smaller backyards.
Plunge pools are compact by design and perfect for cooling off, relaxing, and entertaining. With added features like built in benches or hydrotherapy jets, they can double as a spa style experience.
Often slightly larger than a plunge pool, cocktail pools provide space for both lounging and light swimming. They are ideal for homeowners who prioritize entertaining over lap swimming.
Spools
A spool combines a spa and pool into one efficient footprint. With heating capability and strong jet systems, it functions year round while preserving yard space.
Long and narrow pools can visually elongate a backyard. A sleek rectangular design often complements modern homes and maximizes usable deck space.
Maximize Features Without Overcrowding
In small backyards, every feature must earn its place. The goal is to create impact without overwhelming the space.
Consider incorporating:
Tanning ledges that double as shallow lounging areas
Built in bench seating instead of bulky furniture
Raised bond beams for visual dimension
Sheer descent waterfalls for sound without splash
Integrated spas instead of separate structures
By combining features thoughtfully, you create layers of luxury without clutter.
Decking and Layout Matter More Than You Think
In a compact yard, decking layout can make or break the design.
Rather than surrounding the pool with excessive hardscape, strategic decking zones create the illusion of space. For example:
A defined dining area off the patio
A small lounge zone with built in seating
Turf or landscaping to soften edges
Balancing hardscape and greenery keeps the space from feeling crowded. Vertical elements like privacy walls, planters, and pergolas also draw the eye upward, making the yard feel larger.
Use Water and Light to Expand the Space
Water features and lighting can dramatically change how a small backyard feels.
The sound of moving water adds ambiance and masks neighborhood noise. At night, properly placed LED lighting enhances depth and dimension. Reflections in the water create the illusion of more space, especially when paired with clean lines and light colored finishes.
Glass tile, lighter interior finishes, and reflective materials can further open up the visual field.
Build Up Instead of Out
When square footage is limited, elevation changes can add drama without taking up additional space.
Raised spas, elevated walls, and subtle step downs between entertaining areas create separation and interest. Even a slight grade change can transform a simple backyard into a dynamic environment.
Think About Function First
In small spaces, clarity of purpose is critical. Ask yourself:
Is this pool primarily for relaxation?
Is it for entertaining guests?
Is it for family time with kids?
Is it a visual focal point from inside the home?
When the function is clear, the design becomes more efficient and more impactful.
Small Does Not Mean Simple
One of the biggest misconceptions is that a smaller pool project is less sophisticated. In reality, compact builds often require more precision. Engineering, excavation access, drainage planning, and material selection all demand careful coordination.
At Cody Pools, we approach small backyard projects with the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail as large estate builds. The scale may change, but the standard does not.
Transforming Limited Space Into Lasting Luxury
A small backyard can absolutely deliver a high end outdoor living experience. With the right layout, intentional features, and expert construction, a compact pool can feel intimate, stylish, and perfectly tailored to your home.
If you are working with limited space but unlimited vision, our design team can help you reimagine what is possible.
Because great design is never about how much space you have. It is about how well you use it.
