iAquaLink Automation

Pools by John Clarkson proudly offers premium Jandy pool equipment featuring AquaLink automation. Jandy AquaLink RS automation systems provide homeowners total control and flexibility over all aspects of their pool system from anywhere with internet access through the iAquaLink mobile app. Click here to see just how easy it is to use!

Ready When You Are (Even When You’re Not Home!)

The iAquaLink app gives you complete control over your pool, even when you aren’t home. Imagine leaving the gym or a day on the trails and being able to turn on your spa so it’s hot and ready when you arrive home. With iAquaLink you have total flexibility whether you are home or on the road.

Smart Home Integration

AquaLink systems can be configured to work with Siri and Alexa smart home systems, which allows you to control pool setting and features with your just your voice! Simple commands such as “set pool lights to blue” or “turn on waterfall” will allow you to control nearly every aspect of your pool. Additionally AquaLink integrates with major home automation systems such as Crestron, Elan, and Savant.

Easy One-Touch Scenes

OneTouch “scenes” are completely customizable, so you can set things exactly how you like them — your ideal temperature, lighting, and any water features you like to enjoy—with just one touch. Create scenes for “party mode” or “relaxing evening”, whatever you are in the mood for is just one touch away.

Landscape and Pool Lighting Controls in One Place

Your AquaLink system can also control your landscape lighting, giving you a single app that can control all of your backyard aesthetics. You will be able to turn your lighting on at dusk or a preset time you determine, configure different times for different days of the week – you are in complete control.

Automatic Seasonal Adjustments

The AquaLink system can automatically adjust your pool settings for optimal configuration outside of the summer heavy-use months. Circulation and salt system production requirements reduce in the cooler off-season and iAquaLink can automatically make seasonal adjustments over the course of the year. Taking care of your pool has never been easier!

Easily Upgrade your Aqualink PDA to iAquaLink

If you have an AquaLink PDA based system and want to upgrade to the advanced features of AquaLink RS, give us a call. Our Pool Care team is ready and happy to help!

Pool Toys to Elevate your Play Experience

This month we’re showcasing some of our favorite pool toys that can help bring excitement and imagination to your next pool get together. We’ve personally used all the recommendations below and gotten many, many hours of enjoyment out of them – we hope you do to! Remember no mater what toys you add to your pool an adult should be present and watching children swimmers closely.

 

Click any of the images below to for a retail link to the item.

Snorkel Mask

Say goodbye to the old snorkel and mask setup and say hello to the Snorkels 2.0! These modern snorkel masks are revolutionary, offering a clear view with minimal fogging. Available in both adult and child sizes, these masks are perfect for exploring the underwater world of your pool.

Snorkel Mask - Amazon.com

Shark Dart

Simple yet endlessly entertaining, shark darts are perfect for a game of long-range underwater catch. Once submerged and filled with water, the shark can be tossed under water where it will glide up to 40 ft! It’s a fun and safe option for kids and adults alike.

Shark Dart - Target.com

Pool Basketball Goal

A poolside basketball goal is a must-have for those looking to blend sport with leisurely splashes. Even if you’re not a basketball fan, you’ll find it hard to resist taking a few shots while floating around the pool. This model is the sturdiest and most well-built we’ve seen, it offers great rim action, and breaks down easily for winter storage. Don’t forget to stock up on extra balls, they can be found at most sports store for around $5 each.

Pool Basketball Goal - Amazon.com

Subnado Underwater Scooter

This is the most expensive recommendation in our list, but it’s absolutely worth it! The Subnado Underwater Scooter is like having your own mini submarine wisk you around under water at speeds up to 4.6 ft/sec! It’s sturdy, well-built, and usually retails for around $500, though occasional sales approach $400. With handlebar and arm strap options, you can glide through the water with ease—grab two and pretend you’re Iron Man!

Subnado - Waydootech.com

Inflatable Boat

Inflatable boats are a hit with kids, sparking their imagination and leading to countless hours of adventure. Whether they’re pretending to be pirates or exploring uncharted waters, these boats can be a centerpiece of pool play. Just ensure that kids are supervised and never play under an overturned boat where you can’t see them.

Inflatable Boat - Amazon.com

Dinosaur Egg Iceballs

Ice Balls offer a fantastic poolside activity. Simply place a small plastic toy dinosaur, a beautiful flower, or a splash of food dye inside a balloon, fill it with water, and freeze it. Once frozen, cut away the balloon to reveal your unique and creative DIY poolside toy.

Unique Water Features

When you think of your dream pool, what water features does it include? Here we’ll show you a few of the most common options to add visual excitement and the “sound of water” so many of our customers desire.

 

Sunshelf Bubbler

Add a splash of fun and tranquility to your pool with a sun shelf bubbler! This delightful feature transforms your pool’s shallow lounge area into a vibrant play area for kids or a peaceful retreat for adults. It’s the perfect setting for families wanting to introduce a safe, enjoyable water experience for their little ones or for anyone seeking a calm corner to relax and unwind.

Sheer Descent

Sheer descent waterfalls produce a clear arc of water, cascading down into your pool, creating a serene environment. This feature is designed to offer a visually clean, uninterrupted flow of water, making it a focal point of modern elegance in any pool. The soothing sound of falling water adds a layer of tranquil auditory experience to your poolside moments.

Deck Jets

Deck jets are a dynamic addition to any pool, sending sleek arcs of water from the deck into the pool below. Deck jets light up beautifully at night, providing a mesmerizing display that enhances evening poolside gatherings. You have the creative freedom to tailor their design to perfectly complement your pool’s aesthetics.

Laminar Jets

Laminar jets take deck jets to the next level with streams of water that are highly controlled and can be lit with LED lights for a dramatic nighttime effect. These jets produce smooth, glass rod-like arcs of water that produce almost no splash droplets from the column of water.

Raised Spa Overflow

A raised spa that overflows into the pool not only increases the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a multi-sensory experience. The spillway gently pours water into the pool, creating a calming effect, while scuppers allow for a more dramatic water release, reminiscent of traditional fountains, enhancing the auditory and visual pleasure.

Vanishing Edge Pool

Also known as an infinity pool, the vanishing edge creates a visual effect of water with no boundaries. This design marvel is perfect for properties with scenic views, as the edge appears to merge with the horizon or surrounding landscape, thus magnifying the beauty of your outdoor space.

Ways to Beat the Heat with Shade

Covered Shade Options

Here in Florida, we’re lucky to have plenty of warm days and sunshine. While a pool offers a great way to cool down on those hot summer days, you might also want some shade or a way to step out of the rain during an afternoon sun shower. Pools by John Clarkson offers a wide variety of covered structures to give you the exact look and functionality you are looking for, from Pergolas to fully covered cabanas.

Pergola

Installing a pergola into your outdoor living space is not only functional, providing shade on hot Florida days, they also elevate and enhance the beauty in your outdoor living space. You can even mount a fan on your pergola to up the comfort level! A well-structured pergola can last a lifetime while protecting you and adding timeless practicality to your outdoor space.

Covered Pergola

Covered pergolas are great options for enhancing coverage and protecting outdoor living features like BBQs! They also offer great sun shower coverage during our sometimes-unpredictable Florida weather, while still offering aesthetic friendliness to any outdoor living space.

Elite Roof

Our elite roofs can be added when you are doing a screen enclosure. These roof structures have the option to mount a fan, provides ample shade and sun protection, and adds functionality and beauty to your backyard. Elite roofs are fully covered, insulated, and contain aluminum roofing that will withstand the elements and last for years to come!

Cabanas

Pools by John Clarkson offers extremely customizable cabana options! We can match the exterior of your home or keep your cabana as simple as you want it. Cabanas are a great option to house outdoor kitchens, living spaces, and fireplaces. They can even include bathrooms, offices, and indoor entertainment, blending the concept of cabana and pool house into one. Pools by John Clarkson are proud to hold a Certified Building Contractor (CBC) license, as well as three Certified Pool Contractor (CPC) licenses, making us the in-house experts on pool and cabana projects – from big to small!

 With over 35 years of experience building beautiful backyards for homeowners throughout North Florida, Pools by John Clarkson is ready to bring your outdoor dreams to reality.  

Tips on Planning a Pool Remodel

Pool Remodel

Are you a proud pool owner looking to give it a renovation or maybe even transform your backyard into the oasis you’ve always dreamed of? Now is the perfect time to start planning a pool remodel with Pools by John Clarkson.

 

Whether you’re looking to replace finishing materials, enhance the design, add features and functionality or add an outdoor kitchen or living space, one of our Renovation Design Consultants can guide you through the entire process. Dive in and discover everything that is possible when you chose to remodel your pool with Pools by John Clarkson.

Planning Tips for a Successful Pool Remodel

Like any good project, a successful renovation starts with a plan. What’s your vision? Are you looking to simply replaster your pool or do you want to add on a spa or incorporate an outdoor living or kitchen area? Begin by identifying the changes you want to make, be they in the structure, design, or functionality of your pool. Pore over magazines, design websites, social media and of course the pbjc.com website for design inspiration. Your design should complement your home as well as its surrounding landscape – and most importantly, bring you happiness.

What Can Be Done When You Renovate Your Pool?

The only limits are your imagination! Most renovations start with a desire to redo the pool interior finish. Many people don’t realize how many option there are beyond interior finish that can be incorporated into a pool remodel. Below we walk you through just a few of the renovation services we offer.

 

Interior Finish

You know it’s time to consider renovating your pool’s interior when you begin seeing discoloration spots, etching, delamination (plaster separated from the pool shell), there are any “popups” where the plaster has worn through to the pool shell, and general roughness. Many older pools can be found with a basic white plaster or quartz finish that can be ready for a replaster in 8-10 years.

 

While we offer many types of interior finishes, our pebble finishes are our most popular thanks to their durability that can easily go beyond 20 years as well as the many color choice that are available to ensure your pool interior perfectly complements your backyard style.

 

Waterline Tile

Along with plaster, waterline tile is the other most common component of a pool remodel. I think most of us can agree some of the old pool tile designs from 20+ years ago have NOT aged well! New tile combined with a new interior finish can drastically change the look of your pool and breathe new life into its appearance.

 

We offer an enormous selection of tile options ranging from standard 6”x6” porcelain, large format 6”x24” tile, 1”x1” glass mosaics, and everything in between. No matter your style preference, there is a new tile design that will update your pool to match your style.

 

Coping & Pool Deck

Coping is the stone that sits atop your pool wall edge and serves as the edge where your pool deck meets the pool. If your pool is a little older, you may have a poured concrete slab pool deck that extends all the way to the edge of the pool, so there isn’t a separate coping stone.

 

One of the biggest aesthetic impacts you can make to update the look and feel of your backyard is to replace the existing pool deck and coping. While we can do one or the other to meet your preferences, many times these are done together. And while you are at it, now is the time to change your deck shape, add a new area for a fireplace or outdoor kitchen, or create an area for that covered pool cabana you’ve always dreamed of. We have a wide variety of modern coping and decking material choices to make your backyard vision a reality.

 

You Can Even Add a Spa or Sunshelf

One of the major pool design trends of the last decade is the sunshelf. This is typically an ~8” deep shelf on the edge of the pool that is ideal for supervised toddler waterplay or lounging in a low sun chair and enjoying the view. We can also add-on that spa you always secretly wished you had!

 

Water Features

Another option while renovating is adding water features. Many people enjoy the splashing water noise a water feature can provide as a calm and comfortable background noise; others enjoy them as a visual treat. Either way, you like it, if you’ve always wanted a water feature, renovation is the time! Just a few options we provide:

  • Sheer descent waterfall: A raised wall with a waterfall water feature that arcs down into the water. These can be done in lengths ranging from 1’ to 6’.
  • Bubbler: A bubbler is a small jet head in a sunshelf that is flush with the pool finish surface and provides a frothy column of water that extends above the surface. It creates a nice water sound and kinds typically find them fun to play in.
  • Deck Jets: These are small flush mount jets in the pool deck that arc up and into the pool.
  • Laminar Jets: Similar to a deck jet, but the stream is nearly glass like with minimal droplets that fall out the pool deck. They also enter the pool much smoother, creating a quieter water effect.

Lighting

One of the biggest improvements you can make to your pool is upgrading to modern multi-color LED lighting. Depending on the age of your pool, it might very well have a single, large 500W incandescent pool light in one end to light the entire pool. Modern LED lighting allows you to select from many color choices and includes the ability to dim your lights as well – a huge improvement over lights of the past. You’ll be able to celebrate the holidays (orange for Halloween, green for St. Patty’s!) or pick the perfect color choice to illuminate your nights. And LED lights can offer over 90% energy reduction, helping the environment and your wallet.

 

Screen Enclosures

A screen enclosure is a popular option here in Florida to keep bugs, critters, and those annoying Oak tree leaves out of the pool. We can help you add a screen enclosure to your pool as part of your renovation.

 

Outdoor Living: Think Beyond the Pool

Another major design trend in pools over the last decade is the inclusion of outdoor living and kitchen spaces in the dream backyard design. Our Outdoor Living team can help you make your dreams a reality, big or small. Below are just a few of the Outdoor Living offerings we can provide:

  • Kitchens
  • Living spaces
  • Fireplaces
  • Cabanas

Upgrade Your Equipment for Energy Efficiency and Ease of Use

Modern pool systems have come along way in just the last few years and now offer full automation and control from the touch of your hands through a smartphone app. Want to schedule the spa to turn on every Wednesday evening after your yoga class or have your deck jets run in the morning when you have your coffee? Control is in the palm of your hands. You can even remotely control your pool from anywhere in the world.

 

If your pool pump is an old single speed design, now is definitely the time refresh that old equipment. A modern variable speed pump will save you money every month thanks to its energy saving variable speed design, and best of all – it’s so much quieter! In normal circulation mode you won’t even know that it’s running.

 

Key Factors to Consider

While planning your pool remodel, three critical factors can heavily influence your project’s success: budget, design preferences, and materials chosen. Beginning with a definitive budget helps narrow down choices and keeps your project within sustainable boundaries. Allocate funds for unexpected expenses such as resodding your lawn, as these are almost inevitable in any pool construction project.

 

Meanwhile, your design preferences will dictate the aesthetic and functional aspects of your pool. Decide on the color, texture, and style, considering how it fits with the overall look of your house and yard. When it comes to materials, you have a multitude of options. From the pool’s interior finish to the decking and coping materials, remember that each choice can dramatically impact the pool’s durability, maintenance needs, and visual appeal. Our Renovation Design Consultants are here to help you every step of the way from deciding on features to helping make that final material selection.

Why Choose Pools by John Clarkson for Your Pool Remodel?

Our team of experts offers a comprehensive solution for pool remodel planning and elegant pool construction, staying updated with the latest pool renovation trends. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and commitment to delivering a high-quality result for each client. We’ll guide you through every step of the renovation process, so you always know what to expect.

Start Planning Your Pool Remodel Today with Pools by John Clarkson

Whether it’s a simple interior refinish or a complete pool, deck, and outdoor living renovation, Pools by John Clarkson is here to help you make your renovation a success. Your pool is more than just a place to swim; it’s where memories are made. Let us help you create a pool that’s truly your own.

Now Is the Right Time to Start Your Pool Renovation – Here’s Why

Are you a homeowner with a pool in Jacksonville, Florida? Right now is the perfect time to think about a pool renovation. Whether you want to refresh your pool finish, replace your tile, update your pool deck materials, add a spa or sunshelf, or add outdoor living space, kitchen, or fireplace, now is the time to act so you can begin enjoying your new pool when summer arrives! When it comes to pool remodeling in Jacksonville, there’s no better choice than Pools by John Clarkson.

With nearly 35 years of pool building and renovation experience, the team at Pools by John Clarkson can turn your pool renovation dreams into reality.

What Can be Done When Renovating a Pool?

A pool renovation can range from simply refinishing the pool interior up to a complete transformation of your pool and backyard living space. This is your opportunity to turn your backyard into the oasis you’ve always dreamed of. Below are just a few of the options you should keep in mind when considering a renovation:

  • Interior Resurfacing – Update the interior of your pool and return it to its original luster and appeal. You can even change colors to give your pool an entirely new look.
  • Tile – We offer a wide variety of tile styles, designs, colors, shapes, and sizes. No matter what your personal style is, we’ve got a tile that you’ll love!
  • Pool Deck Pavers and Coping – Replacing old pool deck and coping with a new modern material is one of the most impactful things you can do as part of a renovation. New decking materials and colors can completely transform your backyard look and feel. With a wide variety of natural and manufactured stone deck paver options to choose from, we will bring your backyard vision to life.
  • Add a Spa or Sunshelf – Sunshelves have become incredibly popular in recent years; in fact, most new pools include a sunshelf in some way. If you’ve ever dreamed of a sunshelf to lounge in during the day or a spa to relax in at night, we will bring your dream to reality.
  • Pool Equipment and Automation – Replacing aging pool equipment is one of the best things you can do for your pool. Modern variable speed pool pumps are significantly quieter than the single speed pumps of the past while offering significant cost savings through efficient low speed operation. And upgrading to a modern automation system puts total control of your lights, water features, pump(s), and heater(s) right in your hands through your smartphone, anywhere in the world.
  • Low Voltage Lighting – New LED based low voltage pool lights offer multi-color, dimmable lighting that allow you to change your lights to meet your night time mood.
  • Outdoor Living – Sure, you could just renovate your pool, but why not add that outdoor living space, kitchen or fireplace you’ve always been dreaming of while you are at it? Though “pools” is right there in our name, our expertise and experience lies in bringing your entire backyard dreams to reality.

Why Right Now is the Right Time for Pool Remodeling

You want to use your backyard when the weather warms up as summer approaches. The cold winter months are the perfect time to dive into your renovation so you can take advantage of your renovated backyard all summer long!

The Need for Pool Remodeling

The primary reason homeowners in Jacksonville, Florida, start thinking about pool remodeling is age and weather related wear. This includes things like aging interior finishes, chipped or cracked tiles, faded or cracked poured concrete decks, old high voltage single color lighting, loud and inefficient pool equipment and mysterious leaks.

Remodeling helps address these issues by replacing old equipment, fixing leaks, and refreshing finishes to make your backyard and pool feel brand new again!

Additionally, pool remodeling can be driven by the need for a pool upgrade or modernization. As families grow or your needs evolve, you might want to add features such as spas, waterfalls, a sunshelf, or a heater. A remodel lets you embrace more energy-efficient and automated technology to make the most out of your new pool.

Benefits of Pool Remodeling

When you work with the experts at Pools by John Clarkson, you’ll enhance the functionality and longevity of your pool. A remodeled pool works efficiently and can serve you for many more years to come.

Moreover, remodeling your pool can significantly uplift the aesthetic appeal of your backyard.

Updating the pool design, introducing new tiles, or adding water features transforms your backyard into your private resort — great for boosting the visual appeal of your yard, and enhancing your home’s real estate value. After all, a beautifully remodeled pool is an attractive feature for potential home buyers should you plan to sell your home in the future.

And finally, remodeling can make your pool more energy-efficient as well as easier to use and maintain. By incorporating modern, energy-saving equipment and automation features, you lower your energy bills AND the effort to use your pool exactly how you want to.

The Role of Pools by John Clarkson in Pool Remodeling

Clarkson Quality Inside and Out

Pools by John Clarkson is committed to delivering quality in everything we do. It’s part of why we’ve been in business for nearly 35 years and successfully installed over 3200 pools.

Catering to Your Individual Needs

One of our dedicated Renovation Specialists will meet with you to understand your existing pool and what your unique vision for your backyard consists of. The team at Pools by John Clarkson understands that every pool remodeling project is unique. We work closely with our clients to understand their specific needs, preferences, and expectations to deliver a pool that’s truly reflective of your taste.

Pools by John Clarkson will be there with you every step of the way, from providing expert advice in designing your pool through construction and start-up. Or as we like to say…. from consultation to cannonball!

Why wait to get started on your pool renovation? Transform your pool into the dream oasis you’ve always desired with Pools by John Clarkson. Contact us today to get started!