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Outdoor Fireplaces: Elevate Your Outdoor Living Experience

Posted on December 19, 2023January 26, 2024 by pbjc-manage

Are you looking for ways to elevate your outdoor living experience? Adding an outdoor fireplace can instantly transform your backyard into a cozy retreat. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to enhance your outdoor space or a design enthusiast seeking inspiration, you’ll soon appreciate how an outdoor fireplace blends functionality and aesthetic appeal to create an outdoor living space that’s sure to impress.

Let’s explore the benefits, design possibilities, and maintenance tips for outdoor fireplaces, and discover how to integrate PBJC’s outdoor fireplaces into your existing outdoor design. Visit our webpage on Outdoor Living for more insights and design inspiration.

Why Should You Choose an Outdoor Fireplace?

Outdoor fireplaces certainly offer visual appeal, but they also offer a host of practical benefits that can significantly enhance your outdoor living experience.

Outdoor Fireplaces Serve a Practical Purpose

Arguably, the biggest advantage outdoor fireplaces offer is warmth. With an outdoor fireplace, you’ll enjoy nature and your backyard all year long, especially here in North Florida’s moderate winters. An outdoor fireplace can also serve as a gathering spot, which provides a welcoming space for guests, friends, and family to spend time catching up or for couples to share a romantic evening under the stars.

Outdoor Fireplace Add Aesthetic Appeal

Outdoor fireplaces are certainly practical, but their aesthetic appeal is undeniable. The flicker of flames under the open sky creates an enchanting ambiance that beckons you outside. With numerous designs and materials to choose from, you can find the perfect fireplace to complement your existing outdoor décor and reflect your unique personality.

Great Return on Investment For Outdoor Fireplaces

A professionally installed fireplace boosts your home’s marketability. It can also help you fetch a higher asking price for your home should you choose to sell. Don’t just imagine your outdoor fireplace as an expenditure — view it as an investment that could pay off in the future.

Style Options For Outdoor Fireplaces

From the classic, rustic charm of traditional designs to the sleek lines of modern styles, PBJC offers a stunning selection of outdoor fireplaces. Our collection features everything from free-standing units to integrated designs, allowing you to find the perfect fireplace that aligns with your outdoor living vision.

Traditional, Modern, and Everything in Between

Traditional outdoor fireplaces often feature natural stone or brick, which creates a timeless look that blends well with almost any outdoor décor. Modern styles, on the other hand, tend to focus on sleek lines and minimalist aesthetics. PBJC’s outdoor fireplaces can be customized to suit your unique needs and preferences, ensuring you get exactly what you’re looking for.

Select a Style That Suits Your Unique Outdoor Space

When choosing an outdoor fireplace, consider the size and layout of your outdoor space. A freestanding unit might be better suited to larger, open areas, while an integrated design could work well in a compact patio.

Incorporating an Outdoor Fireplace into Your Outdoor Living Space

Proper placement of your outdoor fireplace can add functionality and charm to your outdoor space. Pay attention to the fireplace’s distance from your house, the wind direction, and how close it is to your seating area. Comfortable seating and lighting can help create a welcoming ambiance to encourage outdoor time with family and friends.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Outdoor Fireplace

The material you select for your outdoor fireplace plays an essential role in its durability and overall look. Popular choices include brick, natural stone, and stucco. Brick is renowned for its durability and classic appeal, natural stone adds an elegant touch, and stucco offers a smooth, modern look. Most importantly, your selection should be something you like that matches the existing style of your outdoor space.

Maintenance and Safety Tips for Outdoor Fireplaces

Regularly removing ashes, inspecting for damages, and using a protective cover when not in use are essential tasks to keep your outdoor fireplace in working order.

Always keep a comfortable distance between the fireplace and flammable materials, never leave a burning fire unattended, and ensure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving.

The Clarkson Quality Advantage

With a commitment to deliver Clarkson Quality in everything we do, PBJC offers outdoor fireplaces that embody durability and style. Each fireplace is designed to withstand the elements while providing a focal point in your outdoor space. Let Clarkson Quality elevate your outdoor living experience.

Elevate the Look of Your Space with a PBJC Outdoor Fireplace

Outdoor fireplaces bring aesthetic appeal, functionality, and a potential return on investment to your outdoor living space. Browse our selection of outdoor fireplaces and take your outdoor space from ordinary to extraordinary.

Prolong Your Pool Season with the Right Heater for Your Needs

Posted on November 29, 2023January 26, 2024 by pbjc-manage

When it comes to enjoying your swimming pool year-round or extending your pool season into the chillier months, having a reliable and efficient pool heater is essential. Pools by John Clarkson understands the importance of keeping your pool at the perfect temperature, and we offer several heating solutions to heat your pool depending on how you plan to use your pool.

Gas Heaters

A gas pool heater burns gas to heat water for your pool or spa, making it a great pool heating solution if you have low-cost access to natural gas or propane. An advantage of having a gas heater is that they can heat your pool or spa much faster than a heat pump. Plus, gas pool heaters perform well regardless of the outside temperature — allowing you to quickly heat your pool and spa even when it’s cold out. Even if you don’t have gas currently at your home, a propane tank can easily be installed above or below ground to provide gas for your new pool heater.

Heat Pumps

A pool heat pump runs on electricity and takes heat from the air and transfers it into your pool water. Heat pumps do not provide the raw heating power of a gas heater to quickly heat your pool, however they operate extremely efficiently and excel at maintaining water temperature over long periods of time.

In addition to heating your pool, our heat pumps can also cool your pool! Now you can heat your pool to extend your swimming season while also cooling your pool in the heat of the summer so you have perfect temperature pool water year round!

How to decide – how do you plan to use your pool?

Heating a spa or pool on-demand
For nearly all spas, a gas heater is the right heater for the job. You can rapidly heat a spa with a gas heater so it’s ready to use shortly after you decide you want to use it. When not in spa mode, the gas heater can also be used to heat your pool: win-win! This is ideal for heating the pool for a day here and there, but is not a cost-effective way to maintain your pool temp over a long period of time.
Maintain pool temperature throughout the season
A heat pump is a highly-efficient way to maintain your ideal swimming temperature during the swimming season and to extend the swimming season leading into and out of summer. And because PBJC offers heat/cool heat pumps, it can cool to the ideal temperature in the middle of the summer if needed. Depending on several factors such as the size of your pool, what temperature you want to maintain, and how many months during the year you want to swim, more than one heat pump could be required.
Best of both worlds
Many PBJC customers choose to have both a gas heater and heat pump installed on their pools so they have the best of both worlds! This gives you the ultimate in pool heating capabilities and flexibility.

Pool Heater Installation – Pools by John Clarkson

Even here in sunny Jacksonville, Florida, you need a pool heater to enjoy your pool outside of the sunny summer months. As your trusted pool professionals in Northeast Florida, the team at Pools by John Clarkson will take the time to better understand how you plan to use your pool year-round, walk you through a number of quality pool heater options and ensure you are getting the right product for your needs. We also offer efficient installation services to get the job done right every time.

To learn more, or get started on enjoying your pool year-round, contact our team today.

From The Experts: Pool Maintenance and Care

Posted on October 25, 2023March 20, 2024 by pbjc-manage

When it comes to pool maintenance, no one size fits all and precision is the key to success. After all, installing a pool is an investment just as much as it is a lifestyle and commitment. Luckily, Pools by John Clarkson has been a leading expert in pool maintenance and care in Jacksonville, Florida since 1989. The keys to good pool care are a quality filtration system, cleaning of debris, and maintaining chemical balance. We’re going to talk through how to increase longevity and keep your gorgeous new investment maintained and up to par!

Filtration

Filtration systems are there to keep water clear of dirt, debris, and other contaminants that can cloud or pollute water chemistry. At Pools by John Clarkson, we provide cartridge filters on all of our pools because of the many advantages they offer over other types of filtration media:

Better Filtration Efficiency: Cartridge filters can capture particles as small as 10-15 microns, providing superior filtration compared to sand filters.
Energy Efficiency: Cartridge filters generally have lower operating costs as they require less energy to pump water through the filter media. Combined with a variable-speed pool pump, it offers the most energy-efficient filtration possible.
Compact Design: Cartridge filters are more compact than other filter types, which helps significantly in reducing equipment space needed and overall aesthetics of the equipment area.
Easily Replaceable Filter Media: Cartridge elements can last for several years before requiring replacement, and changing the filter element is so fast and easy that most any homeowner can do it.

Debris Cleaning

No one wants to head out for a sunny day swim and find the pool filled with dirt and leaves. Enter: state-of-the-art automatic cleaning systems that will keep you and your pool happy!

Pressure Side Cleaners – Good
These cleaners are powered by the pressure of the water returning to the pool and are inherently safer than suction side cleaners because they present virtually no risk of suction entrapment. They do an adequate job of removing debris, but have parts that are prone to jamming that reduce cleaning efficiency and can cause homeowner frustration.

Electric Robotic Cleaners – Better
A robotic cleaner is essentially a Roomba for your pool. These have gained in popularity over recent years thanks to their trouble-free operation, ease of use, and quality of cleaning, even corners and pool walls. And because they don’t require any plumbing, it’s a drop-in solution that works in any pool!

In-Floor Cleaning System – Best!
Popup spray heads are installed throughout the pool on the floors, steps, and walls that will rotate a stream of water to send debris towards the main drain where it can then be filtered free of debris. In-floor cleaning is automatic and operates nearly invisibly. As an added benefit, it also provides the best possible circulation of pool water, aiding in filtrating and significantly improving pool heating efficiency. In-floor cleaning can only be installed during installation, so if your still in the design phase, this is a great option to consider.

Suction-Side Cleaner – BAD!
Suction side cleaners are not sold or recommended by Pools by John Clarkson. Because they are tied into the pump’s suction line, they can create a suction hazard for anything or anyone in the pool. Because of this risk, they are best avoided.

Chemical Balance

Pool maintenance truly is a science, so it’s important to ensure the chemical balance of the water is precise to avoid damaging pool equipment in the long term. Use our tips below to guarantee as many fun pool days with the family as possible and make good on your investment!

Test and Adjust pH: This will give you a good read on how much acid or base is present in the pool water. You’ll want to try and hit a pH of 7.4 – 7.6 ideally. Use sodium carbonate to increase the pH and muriatic acid to decrease the pH.
Test and Adjust Total Alkalinity: This acts as a pH stabilizer, and when adjusted correctly, the pH fluctuates less, which is crucial for pool water health. The range to aim for is 80 – 120 ppm. To increase total alkalinity, use sodium bicarbonate or baking soda. To decrease total alkalinity, use sodium bisulfate or muriatic acid.
Add Sanitizer: This should be familiar even to those that don’t own pools: you’ll want to use a sanitizer like chlorine to kill bacteria. The sweet spot is at 3 ppm. Take care to get this measurement correct, as we know chlorine can be painful and cause skin and eye irritation if used in excess. Salt based pools make sanitization easier than ever – set your salt cell to the correct level and chlorine levels will remain consistent.
Measure Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Keep your TDS range below 2,000 ppm as high levels can cause cloudy water, scale formation, and reduce the chlorine’s effectiveness.
Balance Calcium Hardness: Avoid plaster damage and cloudy water by keeping the calcium hardness balanced and in the range of 200 – 400 ppm.
Cyanuric Acid (CYA): CYA forms a weak bond with free chlorine in the pool water, protecting it from the sun’s ultraviolet rays to reduce chlorine loss. Properly managed, CYA has been shown to reduce the amount of chlorine needed to maintain the minimum chlorine residual in a pool. The ideal range for cyanuric acid is between 30 and 50 ppm – anything above that reduces chlorine effectiveness and lead to additional issues.

While the above tips on chemical balance can be daunting, do not worry! Whether you’re looking for some help in maintaining your existing pool, or looking into getting one installed, the team at Pools by John Clarkson is available to help! Drop us a line at 904-223-4050 to get started on turning your backyard dream into a reality.

Transforming Your Backyard: The Power of Custom Outdoor Living Spaces

Posted on October 2, 2023March 26, 2024 by pbjc-manage

In sunny Northeast Florida, where outdoor living is a way of life, creating a captivating and functional outdoor living space can significantly elevate your home’s appeal and your quality of life. Custom outdoor living spaces are more than just a trend here; they are a lifestyle upgrade that unlocks a world of possibilities right in your backyard and builds value in your home. As a trusted custom residential and commercial pool builder in Jacksonville for 34 years, our team at Pools By John Clarkson specializes in turning these possibilities into stunning realities that enhance your outdoor oasis. Let’s explore some outdoor living options that you may want to consider and look at some of our actual backyard creations that are sure to inspire you.

Why Invest in Creating a Custom Outdoor Living Space?

Transforming your backyard into a captivating outdoor living space brings a wealth of benefits that go beyond the surface. From enhancing your daily life to increasing your property’s value, the decision to invest in a custom outdoor oasis is a strategic and rewarding one. Some of the most common reasons why homeowners in Florida routinely invest in creating larger, more personalized outdoor environments that seamlessly blend relaxation, entertainment and aesthetics include.

Enjoy the Ability to Entertain by Day and Night: Florida’s warm climate encourages outdoor gatherings all year round. A well-designed outdoor space offers the perfect setting for hosting friends and family during the day or under the stars. Imagine festive poolside barbecues, intimate evening conversations by the fireplace, and memorable pool parties that become the talk of the town.
Maximize Your Backyard Space: Your backyard can become an extension of your living area, expanding and maximizing your usable square footage. A well-designed outdoor living space creates designated zones for various activities, ensuring that every inch of your property is put to good use.
Create Shade and Comfort: The Florida sun is beautiful but can be intense. Introducing features like pergolas, cabanas and shaded seating areas allows you to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about sunburns or overheating. It’s the perfect blend of nature and comfort.
Boost Your Home Value: Investing in custom outdoor living spaces not only enhances your quality of life but can add substantial value to your property. A beautifully designed and well-maintained outdoor area can be a strong selling point when the time comes to put your home on the market.

How to Enhance Your Outdoor Living Space

Your outdoor haven awaits transformation into a captivating retreat that caters to your lifestyle and preferences. Consider these carefully curated additions that seamlessly blend function and aesthetics, elevating your outdoor living experience. From rejuvenating hot tubs and serene cabanas to sizzling summer kitchens and mesmerizing firepits, each element contributes to the creation of a harmonious oasis where relaxation and entertainment intertwine. Embrace the art of outdoor living by considering some of the following features that will amplify the allure of your surroundings and offer endless opportunities for enjoyment and relaxation. We’ll even provide you with some additional inspiration by sharing a few of our actual Pools By John Clarkson projects that we have created right here in Jacksonville, FL!

1. Spas: Immerse yourself in ultimate relaxation with the soothing waters of a spa. These water features offer therapeutic benefits, promote relaxation and create an inviting focal point in your pool or backyard.

2. Cabanas, Pergolas and Patios: Create a shaded retreat by adding a cabana, pergola, or an open, enclosed or covered patio to your poolside area. These structures provide protection from the elements while offering a comfortable space to lounge, dine or simply unwind.

3. Summer Kitchens: Elevate your outdoor gatherings with a summer kitchen equipped with grills, sinks, refrigerators and prep areas. Cook, entertain and savor delicious meals while enjoying the fresh air and natural surroundings.

4. Firepits and Fireplaces: Extend the usability of your outdoor space into the evenings with the warmth and ambiance of a firepit or fireplace. Gather around the flickering flames for cozy conversations and create lasting memories.

5. Pergolas and Arbors: Add architectural interest and shade to your outdoor area with pergolas and arbors. These structures can be adorned with climbing plants, creating a natural and inviting atmosphere.

6. Gardens and Landscaping: Incorporating lush gardens and landscaping elements can enhance the beauty and tranquility of your outdoor space. Create a colorful oasis that complements your pool and adds visual interest.

Pools By John Clarkson, with its extensive experience and expertise, is your partner in crafting the ultimate custom outdoor living space. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to enhance your existing pool area, their skilled team can transform your vision into reality. With a portfolio of successful projects in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida, Pools By John Clarkson has earned a reputation for excellence and creativity.

Don’t miss the opportunity to turn your backyard into a haven of relaxation, entertainment, and beauty. Explore the limitless potential of custom outdoor living spaces with Pools By John Clarkson and embark on a journey to transform your outdoor oasis! With our guidance and expertise, your backyard can become a captivating retreat that reflects your lifestyle and enhances your home’s value. Learn more about our services to start turning your outdoor living dreams into a reality.

Welcome To The Oasis – Dive In!

Posted on August 14, 2023March 26, 2024 by pbjc-manage

We are thrilled to introduce “The Oasis”, a new monthly newsletter and blog from Pools by John Clarkson. The Oasis is your ticket to an enchanting journey through the realm of Florida outdoor living. As a trusted member of our pool and outdoor living community, we wanted to create a resource for you that not only connects us but also enriches your knowledge and inspires your imagination.

Get ready to dive into a deep pool of inspiration, tips, and expert insights designed to elevate your outdoor living spaces and experiences. Our goal is to provide you with valuable content that helps you unlock the full potential of your pool, your home and to transform your backyard into a personal oasis.

Each month, we’ll feature one educational and insightful article. You’ll discover a treasure trove of topics ranging from design ideas to maintenance tips, customer spotlights, outdoor living trends, and everything in between.

Seeking design inspiration? We’ve got you covered! Immerse yourself in breathtaking pool and outdoor living hardscape designs that will spark your imagination and guide you toward your dream outdoor sanctuary. Stay informed about emerging styles, innovative features, sustainable materials, and technological advancements.

Watch projects come to life with our outdoor showcases, where we unveil the stories behind our completed works. Witness the transformations, admire the craftsmanship, and gather ideas for your own outdoor haven.

Have questions about ongoing maintenance and care? Our team of experts will share their secrets, providing you with tips and tricks to ensure that your pool and outdoor features stay in top shape. From water chemistry management to equipment maintenance, we’ll equip you with the knowledge you need for hassle-free enjoyment.

At Pools by John Clarkson, we’re here to keep you ahead of the curve. As a 30-year-old, third-generation, family-owned pool company serving distinctive custom residential and commercial pool customers all over Northern Florida, it’s something that’s ingrained in our DNA.

We understand that your time is valuable, so our newsletter will be concise and informative, bringing you only the most relevant content without overwhelming your inbox. We will also be including exclusive offers and promotions reserved just for our newsletter subscribers. Expect surprises that will make your outdoor dreams more attainable!

Finally, we also want to hear from you! Have a question or a topic you’d like covered? Drop us a line so that we can address it!

Thank you for being a part of the Pools by John Clarkson family. We’re excited to embark on this new journey with you, celebrating the beauty of outdoor living and providing you with the expertise and resources you need to create unforgettable moments in your own backyard.

Stay tuned for our first newsletter, arriving in your inbox soon. Get ready to connect, learn, and grow with us as we dive into the exciting world of Florida outdoor living!

Warmest regards,

The Pools by John Clarkson Team

Category: Uncategorized