Above Ground Pool Tips

Above Ground Pool Benefits for Conroe, Texas Homeowners

Conroe, Texas, with its warm climate and family-oriented community, is an ideal location for homeowners to enhance their outdoor living spaces. An above-ground pool from Casual Patio Pools & Spas offers a practical and enjoyable solution for residents looking to beat the heat and create lasting memories. With over 25 years of experience serving the Houston area, including Conroe, Casual Patio provides high-quality Doughboy above-ground pools that combine durability, affordability, and style. Here are the key benefits of installing an above-ground pool for Conroe homeowners.

Affordability and Easy Installation

Above-ground pools are a cost-effective alternative to in-ground options, making them a smart choice for Conroe homeowners seeking value without sacrificing quality. Casual Patio’s Doughboy pools, available in 48" and 52" sidewalls, feature sturdy steel frames and resin components, ensuring longevity without breaking the bank. Installation is straightforward, requiring minimal excavation, which means less disruption to your yard and faster setup—often completed by professionals in a matter of days. For Conroe residents, this means more time enjoying the pool during the long Texas summers and less worry about high installation costs or lengthy construction timelines.

7 Steps to Open Your Huston Above Ground Pool

We are in a wonderful southern climate, but sometimes we close our swimming pool for the Winter.

Here are 7 steps to open your pool.

We can open the pool, but if you choose to do it yourself, it is quite easy. All you need is a friend, and the right supplies and it shouldn't take much time.

Above Ground Pool Benefits for Houston TX Home Owners

Why install an above ground pool in my Houston TX home?

One of the first pools in the United States was in Texas - of course. The Deep Eddy pool was built during the Depression-era and began as a bathhouse. Since then millions of home owners have added a pool to their back yard. When installing a pool, should you get an in-ground or above ground pool?

Above ground pools in Houston are very popular. They bring families closer, and a great time for friends. You pool is a place to cool off and relax. There are many benefits to installing an above ground pool from Casual Patio, Pools & Spas. Here are a few reasons why you should get a quote from us if you want an above ground pool in Houston, TX.

Above Ground Pool Deck Options

Your Houston area pool without a deck is like a rodeo without bulls.

Here are some of the most common types of decks for Casual Patio to build around your new Doughboy above ground pool.

1) Wooden Decks

These are the most common built deck. A wooden deck ie easy to build with many finishs available. Customers and designers create interesting Ideas with wooden decks. Because they are so easy to build, a wooden deck is limited only by the space available and your imagination. Casual Patio has expert construction professionals to build your
budget friendly deck. Get a quote or call us.

2) Aluminum Decks

Aluminum decks are easy to install, and are great in the Houston climates. We can build these decks in a complete pool package. Thick extruded aluminum connections make this one of the best deck solutions on the market today.

3) Resin Prefab Decks

For a long lasting deck you may want to consider a resin pool deck. Each deck is completed with both the in-pool & ground to deck steps plus the gate. You will have several resin pool decks to choose from. Call us today for cost estimate covering materials, installation and labor. They are a great alternative to aluminum decks. They are a lot more stylish looking in white or taupe colors. Built to last for many years to come.

Above Ground Pool Decking

Install an above ground pool with an in ground pool feel - decking from Houston's best Doughboy dealer - Casual Patio.

With the right decking around your above ground pool, it will seem like an in ground pool. With the proper decking, the pumps and accessories can be hidden by the deck. It will make the pool safer and create an inviting space for guests.

Casual Patio partners with the best contractors in the Houston area to help you complete your whole backyard experience, from your pool, custom grill, decking and landscaping.

Avoid Pool Problems in Houston's Hot Weather

This article will help you to avoid pool problems in hot weather like our own Texas climate.

Our summers have higher temperatures than most of the U.S. This hot weather can create problems for swimming pools, especially if you don't follow a regular swimming pool maintenance program.

We have hundreds of Houston Above Ground Pool customers and we only hear from those that have not kept up their maintenance program. From our experience, there are 2 main factors for proper pool care: 1) Equipment & 2) Water Chemistry

Doughboy Above Ground Pools

History of Doughboy

Edited from the Official Doughboy Website

During World War II Domain Industries, through its packaging machinery operation, perfected rubber sealing and won the Army contract to seal K-rations. K-rations were a "meal in a can" carried by United States soldiers during battle.

During World War II, the United States soldiers were known as Doughboys.

In 1947, Domain Industries formally named their packaging machinery operation the Doughboy Plastics Division. Doughboy Plastics Division was created specifically to enter the outdoor family entertainment market by manufacturing inflatable splasher pools, toys, and beach balls.

Years later, they changed the name to Doughboy Recreational. We are also the only pool manufacturer in the world that actually makes everything it sells from raw materials.

Our production takes place in our 660,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Arkansas. Here we continually explore new design concepts and product advances. We start with the basics - the raw materials. Starting with raw materials allows us to monitor all phases of the production process, assuring everything meets our stringent standards of quality. We produce the finest above-ground pools, filtration systems, skimmers, and related accessories for your investment dollars.

Doughboy Recreational is and has always been proud to be Made in America!

Doughboy Pool Backyard Planner

Here is a download the exclusive "Check the Difference" pdf document provided by Doughboy Pools.
Use it to help planning your next backyard with a Doughboy pool from Casual Patio Pools, Spas and More...

It is ideal for the backyard your family has been dreaming of!

The advantages of a Doughboy pool
Determining the right size of pool and its shape your backyard
Selecting the right location for your pool
Pool accessories that make a big difference in your backyard

Click here to view and download the file.

Houston TX Above Ground Pool Buying Tips

What to consider when buying an Above Ground Pool.

An above ground swimming pool is the best choice for many. Of course they are less expensive, but there are other advantages. If you think that above ground pools are 'toy' pools, think again.

Above ground swimming pools in the Houston Texas area may be the BEST option. Above ground swimming pools:

cost much less
they are quicker to install
avoids messy construction
cost less to operate
can be safer, because they are often more shallow and smaller

Enjoy your backyard with an above ground swimming pool. It is a common feature in our South Texas area where our Houston climate is warm in the spring, summer, and fall. A typical in-ground swimming pool can cost much more (i.e. around $25,000 +++). Above ground pools from Casual Patio Pool Spas and More provide the same benefits of their in-ground counterparts at a fraction of the cost.

Be sure to plan your pool and maximize your investment.

How do you rid your pool of frogs?

Use use the pool skimmer to scoop them out.

After that you can let them go or have frog legs for dinner.

Frogs are one of the most endearing reptile. Kids love 'em, French restuarants love 'em.

Because of their permeable skin, they must remain moist all the time. Because of the need for wetness, they can become a nuisance. Most homeowner with a decorative pond or pool can tell you they share it with the frogs.

Because these small bodies of water bodies lack frog's natural predators, they can move in and over populate the space.

The easiest way to get rid of frogs is to consider the reasons why the frogs are there in the first place. Lack of predators is the main factor why frogs overpopulate. Some cats will eat frogs, but it's not advised that you rely on Tabby to control your frog issue.

You should also consider the frog's food source. These amphibians are carnivorous, eating small insects and invertebrates. Be sure your pump is working and may consider aerating it to prevent stagnation. Add a waterfall or a fountain to keep the water circulating. If the water is moving, insects will not be successful when they attempt to lay eggs. Without an abundance of insects, frogs will be less likely to find residence in your pool.

If all else fails, hire a professional to exterminate the frogs. They are trained in frog removal. Instead of defeating the frogs in hand-to-hand combat, consider seeking help from an expert.

Click here for "Masters Wildlife Control" in Houston.

How to Find a Leak in Your Swimming Pool

In an Above Ground Pool in Houston you can typically expect to loose 0.25" of pool water a day due to evaporation. This means almost 2" a week!

The biggest factors affecting this are humidity, wind, and air and water temperature. In the Houston area, we can expect more evaporation because of our warm weather.

Determine the Rate of Water Loss

How to Open Your Houston Above Ground Pool in the Spring.

ONE: Chemicals, Test Strips & Kits

Before you get started, be sure you have all the chemicals and water testing kits. If you live in the Houston TX area, contact us and be sure you have all your supplies ready.

TWO: Remove the Pool Cover

If you have a solid pool cover, the first step is to use a cover pump to remove standing. Take time and remove as much of the water and debris as possible; this simplifies the whole process. Do NOT place the cover pump near or over a seam or you may be draining water from the pool.

If you have a mesh covers, we suggest adding pool shock to the water about 2 weeks before you plan to open your pool. To do this, pull back a corner and, pour the shock into the water then re-cover the pool.

THREE: Store your Pool Cover

How to treat black algae in your swimming pool

Black Algae Treatment

Exclusive for your Houston Above Ground Pool - Casual Patio, Pools, Spas & More can treat your black algae.

We have products with the strength to control Swimming Pool Black Algae.
Features:

Kills black algae
Easy to use
Safe for you and your pets
Contains no metals

In ground swimming pools in Katy TX - the trade offs

luxury-in-ground-swimming-pool-in-katy-tx Only invest in an in-ground pool if you can afford it. They can be very expensive and much more expensive than a above ground pool.

An average-sized pol, expect to pay anywhere from $25,000 to $55,000. If you want one of those gigantic pools like you see in the movies, be prepared to part with over $60,000 at least. You will be getting a lot for that kind of money, but you need to be absolutely certain this is what you want, before going out and spending your savings.

An in-ground pool is also harder to winterize than an above-ground one. The entire pool will need to be cleaned, as will all its parts (pumps, feeders, etc.) You also need to tend to the underground pipe system, draining them, drying them, and then plugging them, to ensure that nothing seeps into the pool while it's sealed up for the winter.

Also do not forget that an in-ground pool is part of the ground, so make absolutely sure this is something you want. If you decide, down the line, that you don't want the pool anymore, you're unfortunately stuck with it.

When you are ready for an above ground pool, contact us Phone/Tap: 281-599-3378

Maintaining Your Above Ground Pool in the Houston Area

Above ground pools are more easily maintained than inground pools.

They take less space in your yard and allow you to have an additional Hot Tub or Patio.

Most above ground pools can be installed in one day; more if ground preparation is needed. Be sure to follow our Professional Technician's maintenance program and always refer to the owner's manuals (i.e. pump, filtration, and liner).

It takes about 6 hours for our system to filter the water in a 24 foot round pool. Six to eight hours is fine early Summer or as the weather cools in the Fall. During Houston's high heat time of Summer, it is suggested to run the filter 12 hours a day.

If you find any problems with your pool water (e.g. cloudy or green) do not run your filter constantly - wait until it clears or give Casual Patio, Pools, Spas and More a call and we can diagnose.

Pool Activities, Fun & Party Ideas

1. Pool and a Flic

A pool and a movie night is a great way to spend the evening. Watch the movie from the pool, or set up some pillows in the yard and enjoy a movie after a long summer day!

Tie a white sheet to trees or a do it yourself stand
Have a Projector - be careful with electrical equipment near the water
Have fun decorating your outdoor movie theater

2. Fairies in a Jar

This will work for 5-8 hours. Put them in your trees or surround your pool.
fairies in a jar

Get a mason jar or another type of jar with a lid
Break open a glow stick and empty contents into jar
Add glitter
Close jar and shake!

Tap or Call: 281-599-3378

Pool Repair After a Hurricane

It is never too early to prepare.

Hurricane season is June 1 to September 30. If mother nature deals the Houston area a big blow again, how can you prepare?

Pool owners face the task of cleaning up a soggy mess. Once your family is taken care of and your living quarters are livable, we can help with your swimming pool, patio, or hot tub.

1. Be sure to take photos of your pool now, before a hurricane.

2. Then after the storm passes for any insurance claims. Take more than one and be sure to get all sides of the pool and surrounding areas.

3. Remove all debris from inside and around the pool.

4. Drain excess water from the pool.

5. Before you turn on the pump, check for loose wires. Make sure the motor is dry before you turn it on.

6. Once the filtration pump is on - keep it on for 24 hours, then test the pH. Adjust with chemicals if needed. Then circulate for another 24 hours and retest.

7. Monitor chlorine levels and try to keep it at 1-4ppm. Add chlorinating shock as needed to maintain levels.

8. Clean the filter often. Call us if you need chemicals.

9. After the water is balanced and sanitized, you can resume use of the pool.

Pool Safety for Above Ground Pools

It is just as important to maintain a safety posture for above ground pools as for inground pools. Below are some important safety tips for your above ground pool:

Fence / Barrier

Above ground pools must have a fence or barrier around the pool. The stairway leading up to the swim area should also be protected. Stairs to the pool should also be gated with a lock.

Communicate

Pool signs and depth markers are important to have around your pool area. The pool depth markers are available from Casual Patio Pools & More. Other signs should include: "No Jumping", "No Diving, Shallow Water" and "Slippery When Wet".

Safety Equipment

Have basic safety equipment available such as lifesaver rings and a Shepherd's Crook.

Alarms

Your above ground pool should have an alarm installed - it is an excellent safety add-on. The above ground pool alarm should use a sensing method is designed to detect a one-year-old child weighing 15 pounds and greater.

Stairs & Handrails

Be sure the hand rails and stairs have slip resistant surfaces to protect against slips and falls.

Reducing your electric bill with an above ground pool

Here are four suggestions to help reduce your electric bill in your Houston Area Above Ground Pool.

Suggestion #1

Remember, your pump is there to keep your swimming pool water circulating and clean. If you change your pump's characteristics and notice a change in your water clarity or balance you may want to think twice about the change.

Summer Pool Party Ideas

The first thing you need for your Pool party is a Doughboy Above Ground Pool! Contact us immediately to make sure your pool is installed in time for your party.

Here are a couple of ideas to make your party more memorable.

Beach Bucket Party Favor: Goodie bags are kind of the best part of any party... especially when you're throwing one for the little ones. Kick the kiddo's excitement level up a notch with a beach bucket decked out in all things summer, and stick them to each seat so they can dig through their new goodies during lunchtime.

Pool Float Invitation: Looking for a way to really wow your munchkin's friends? Customize a pool float with a permanent marker for a DIY invitation that's going to get them seriously excited for the party. Pro tip: You should totally mail this when it's *not* blown up ;)

Beach Ball Garland: You've probably already picked up a few beach balls to play with in the pool, but a beach ball garland is what's going to give your patio the extra oomph it needs. DIY this colorful banner using Smoothfoam (nope, not styrofoam) balls and craft paint for an easy way to make your space next-level.