Nicolock and Cambridge Concrete Pavers – How to Maintain Them

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Concrete Pavers by Gappsi
Driveway Concrete Pavers by Gappsi

Nicolock and Cambridge concrete pavers are both excellent choices for your property. However, taking the paver technology into account is as important as taking their feel and look into consideration. Each brand has a lot to offer, from amazing technology to several design options for your property, making decision-making even harder. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each, along with tips for their maintenance.

Nicolock Paving Stones

Nicolock paving stones use its paver-shield technology to manufacture beautiful concrete paving stones. They also manufacture segmental retaining wall systems, precast concrete products, and paving slabs. Thanks to the paver-shield technology, these pavers have a richer and denser surface. They also have a bright, vibrant appearance that just doesn’t fade.

Cambridge Paving Stones

Cambridge pavers have ArmorTec technology that does a wonderful job of improving your home’s appearance. This extra-dense concrete has a rich appearance which also keeps your surface smooth and skid-resistant. There are a number of possibilities when it comes to using them for different designs. The cherry on top is that there are numerous colors and shapes available.

At Gappsi, we make sure to connect you with the best suppliers for Nassau and Suffolk County, Long Island, NY.

Nicolock and Cambridge Concrete Pavers – How to Maintain Them

When it comes to cleaning and sealing, you want to make sure you’re doing it right. The first step involves getting the stones ready. Start by removing any items touching the pavers, such as toys, chairs, tables, etc. Then, if you notice any weeds, pull them out gently. You want to ensure that you’re working on a clear surface. You can also use a broom to scrub any other growth away.

At Gappsi, our installers and applicators make sure to do the job right, so you do not need to touch the pavers for any form of maintenance for a long time. While there are basic ways to maintain your concrete pavers without professional help, they might not work every time.

What Types of Cleaning Solutions Should You Use?

There are numerous cleaners for pavers. However, you want to stick to an effective and long-lasting solution. Before you take your pick, make sure to test the solutions on a single stone first to record its reaction to the color.

Swimming pool concrete pavers
Backyard Concrete Pavers in Long Island, NY

Diluted Bleach

You can remove a number of stains by using bleach diluted with ten parts water. The stains this solution can easily remove are tobacco stains, wood rot, and beverage stains.

Water And Soap

Sometimes, hand soap or dishwashing soap is also effective in removing moderate stains and grease. You can make the solution easily by mixing some warm water with soap.

Simple Green

The best cleaning solutions for pavers are those that are chemical-free. You want to ensure that you’re using the least number of chemicals when working with any outdoor structure.

There are a number of retailers across the country that sell cleaning solutions for pavers. However, you want to make sure you’re purchasing the one with the least number of chemicals involved.

Hire Gappsi Contractors Today To Clean And Seal Your Pavers!

At Gappsi, we understand how overwhelming the task of maintaining your pavers can be. For this reason, we have a number of skilled professionals to do the job for you. Whether you want to restore the pavers on your walkway or pool patios, trust us to do the job in both Nassau and Suffolk County, Long Island, NY.

After all, preventive maintenance of Nicolock and Cambridge concrete pavers is essential to keep their quality intact for the long run. Our professionals will apply low-pressure hot water to clean your pavers to ensure that all the grime and dirt have been removed.

Then, they will refill the joints with polymeric sand before using a specialized machine to apply vibration. Then, they will mist using a garden hose before applying a urethane-based sealer.

Thanks to this product, you won’t see yellow or peeling pavers for a long time. This sealer does not give the stones a shiny appearance, but it makes up by adding a deeper tone to the color. Furthermore, our team will also guide you about ways to clean and seal the pavers yourself.

Preventing Pavers From Fading

It’s important to acknowledge that sooner or later, your outdoor pavers will fade. This is usually because of prolonged exposure to UV rays. With time, you may notice that the aggregate is no longer accepting the color pigments, which will make them appear gray or white the more the color fades.

The good news is there are a few ways to slow down fading. One way is to seal them appropriately. This way, the pavers will be able to resist wear and tear for a long time. However, the benefits of sealing don’t end here. Sealing also prevents Nicolock and Cambridge concrete pavers from water penetration, weather conditions, cracks and damages, moss, mold, weeds, and ants.

Concrete pavers for backyard
Top-quality concrete pavers by Gappsi

In a nutshell, no matter what type of pavers you have, sealing them will do wonders in keeping their look and quality intact. All you have to do is leave the work in the hands of our experts, who will take care of your investment with due diligence. With years of experience under its belt, Gappsi knows how to serve you best.

How Frequently Should You Opt For Sealing?

At the time of installation, our installer will make sure to apply a sealer to prevent the fading of your pavers. However, doing it once is not enough. As a rule of thumb, you want to go for it every three to five years. If the sun is intense, you want to go for it every three years to maintain the rich appearance of your concrete pavers.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation Today

No matter how many stores you visit to get the best possible cleaning solution, it won’t ensure that the results are long-lasting. Contact Gappsi for a consultation and a free estimate for cleaning and sealing your pavers.

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Benefits of Limestone Patio Pavers and Pool Copings

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Limestone Patio Pavers & Pool Copings
A custom limestone patio designed by Gappsi

Planning to revamp your patio? Limestone patio pavers and pool copings are your best bet!

The material of patio pavers and pool copings matters because it affects everything, from convenience and aesthetics to budget and several other factors.

Although patio pavers and pool copings are available in many different forms, limestone has remained one of the most reliable paving choices in the market over all these years. Read on to find out why.

What is Limestone?

In simple words, limestone is a natural sedimentary rock formed of calcium carbonate, clay, silt, sand, and many other minerals. The deposits of this naturally beautiful rock are present all over the world.

Limestone is rightly described as universal and timeless; people have used it in many monumental constructions, like the Pyramids of Egypt, the Empire State Building, and the Houses of Parliament.

Due to the presence of minerals in limestone, it is available in various natural colors, including blue, gray, tan, green, beige, and red.

Want to know the main reason behind its high appeal and value? It’s the natural feel that radiates from this rock! It can complement both traditional and contemporary settings.

Benefits of Limestone Patio Pavers and Pool Copings

Expert Masonry designers and contractors in Nassau and Suffolk county, Long Island, NY, recommend limestone for patios. The reasons are as follows:

Gappsi's limestone patio pavers and pool coping
Limestone Patio and Pool Coping in Suffolk County

Hardwearing

Durability is the first thing people look for when constructing patios; limestone fulfills this requirement perfectly.

Limestone’s high durability may sound surprising because of its soft and elegant look, but this naturally-dense rock is impervious to elements. It doesn’t break or crumble easily under harsh weather conditions and extreme temperatures.

In fact, people have been using it in building things intended for heavy-duty use. This rock is not only suitable for patios but also ground floors, kitchens, and other interior parts of a home.

Aesthetic and Versatile

The best part about limestone is that it fits well with any style and color palette you have in mind. It is available in many colors, from dark to light gray, buff, white, blue, green, and even gold. Hence, you can easily match your patio with the interior of your house.

You can find limestone in different textures, amounts, sizes, and durability. Although most limestone pavers have a honed surface, some varieties can also be naturally split.

Experts usually heat limestone to a high temperature in a flame to create a smooth and uniform surface. They can easily chisel, tumble, split, or cut edges to match your requirements. Some textures are suitable for flat and smooth surfaces indoors, while others are perfect for patios and walkways.

Designers can help you choose from the limestone patio pavers and pool copings displays in showrooms. You can also get custom fabrication done by contractors in Nassau and Suffolk County in Long Island, NY.

An Effective Insulator

With its strong insulating properties, limestone prevents your patio and pool copings from getting too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer.

You can walk barefoot on the patio without worrying about burning your foot on hot and sunny days in Nassau and Suffolk County, Long Island, NY. Similarly, you won’t get cold feet while walking barefoot on the patio on chilly days.

Slip-Resistant Properties

Limestone has a little textured and riven profile, making it even more ideal for patios. How? Its texture facilitates underfoot resistance and reduces the chances of slipping to a great extent, even if your feet are wet or it has rained heavily.

With limestone patio pavers, you can let the children in your family run freely around the patio without having to worry about a bad fall.

An Eco-Friendly Choice

Limestone is one of the best options for environment-conscious people when it comes to remodeling the exterior of a house. This is because it’s a renewable stone and doesn’t increase your carbon footprint. Even if it gets damaged for any reason, its repairs won’t contribute to the already-high pollution levels of the nation.

Limestone Patio & Pool Pavers
Gappsi’s custom limestone patio pavers

Cleaning and Maintaining Limestone Patio Pavers and Pool Copings

One of the best parts about limestone patio pavers and pool copings is that you don’t necessarily have to seal them.

  • The first step to cleaning your limestone patio pavers and pool copings is to brush off the dust and debris from the surface with a broom. But be careful not to scratch the stone with your brush.
  • After removing dust and dirt from the surface, wash the pavers with warm water and non-acidic soap. You can soap the water and use a sponge mop to thoroughly clean all the grime and stains. After that, rinse with clean water and let the surface dry naturally.
  • Limestone is more susceptible to chemical damage than other building materials like concrete. Hence, you should never use any acid to clean limestone.
  • Acids cause chemical reactions and affect the colors and hardiness of the stone. So, always choose your cleaning products wisely.
  • Some soap scum and mineral stains may not come off easily. To get rid of them, pour a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a sponge and scrub well. If a stain still persists, you should let a professional paver cleaning service take care of that.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With A Gappsi Professional Today!

Gappsi has been providing masonry services to residential and commercial property owners for a long time in Nassau and Suffolk County, Long Island, NY. Being an integral part of the masonry industry in our region has enabled us to understand your requirements to the core and recommend the best possible ideas to remodel the interior and exterior of your home.

If you want to install, seal or clean your limestone patio pavers and pool copings, contact Gippsi today to let our experts handle that for you!

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Marble Pavers and Pool Copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties

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Marble-Patios-And-Pools-On-Long-Island-NY1

Many believe marble is unsuitable for swimming pool coping and patio pavers. However, marble is inarguably one of the most versatile and durable materials for these constructions. At Gappsi, we understand the value of marble as a stunning natural stone. It’s why we use marble pavers and pool copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties. It’s a luxurious and beautiful material for walkways, pavers, pool coping, and veneers, as it never goes out of style.

Why Choose Marble Pavers and Pool Copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties

If you’re wondering why you should use marble pavers and marble pool coping in Long Island, NY, here are some reasons that will help you make an informed decision:

It Is Durable

Marble is a highly durable material, which makes it the ideal choice for pool copings and backyard pavers. Marble is constructed to last a lifetime, and when we use it in patio and pool remodeling, it stands its ground and resists heavy loads. Moreover, marble can withstand moving weight and is a smart choice for areas with heavy foot traffic.

If you’re doubtful about marble’s durability, consider that people have used marble to create structures throughout history. You can find examples of stunning marble architecture all over the world. For instance, the Palace of Versailles in France, the Taj Mahal in India, and the Washington Monument in the U.S. are impressive marble constructions.

People use marble not just for its beauty but also because of its durability. Furthermore, marble is resistant to weather and other environmental factors, enhancing its overall durability. When you choose marble pavers and pool copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties, you will not have to worry about replacing them for years to come.

It Is Heat-Resistant

Marble is often utilized to keep living spaces cool, specifically in warmer regions. For instance, fireplaces have a marble construction because marble can withstand extreme temperatures without losing its aesthetic beauty. It’s incredibly heat-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor pavers and pool coping that stay in direct sunlight.

You can enjoy a cool floor underneath your feet even under direct sunlight if you get marble walkways, veneers, coping, and pavers. Moreover, the best part about marble pavers is that this material can also withstand extreme cold. It further enhances its functionality and durability.

Marble Pavers Pool Patio, Coping and Steps Dix Hills NY-G043It Is Undeniably Beautiful & Safe

Marble is undeniably elegant and aesthetically pleasing. It has a natural pull and beauty that can work wonders to soothe your eyes on a busy and clammy day. Moreover, marble can resist bacteria, preventing harmful elements from entering your pool.

At Gappsi, we offer custom marble pavers and coping construction, which enables the surface to provide a firm grip, preventing slip and fall accidents. It helps greatly when you step out of the pool with wet feet. You certainly don’t want a material for your swimming pool coping that will encourage skidding and slipping.

Since your patio is one of the places, you will likely use often, choosing a paver material that will look good makes sense. Marble checks that box as it is timelessly beautiful. Moreover, since it is free of artificial constructions, it does not stain and is easy to clean. That said, you must clean the surface immediately if it comes into contact with oils or acids. Apart from that, regular cleaning will keep your marble pavers and pool copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties shiny and spotless.

It Is Versatile

Gappsi has a vast selection of marble for patios, pavers, coping, walkways, and more. Marble is a versatile and functional material that comes in different colors and constructions to suit all tastes. We can also create a custom marble paver look based on your vision. Rest assured, we will ensure your patio, pool, and backyard look elegant and luxurious with a top-tier marble paver and coping installation that suits your unique style and needs. We also provide multiple constructions, styles, designs, and colors. This way, your backyard looks like how you envisioned.

It Enhances Your Property’s Value

Even though marble can be comparatively costly for paver and coping installation, it’s a cost-effective choice. Firstly, it’s incredibly durable, which means it will last for years and prove a worthy investment. Secondly, having marble pavers and pool copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties will undoubtedly boost your property’s value.

The same is true for marble veneers, pool coping, and walkways. Marble constructions make the property more appealing to prospective buyers. The natural stone patterns add beauty to your property. Many buyers are willing to pay extra for the luxury of having marble patios, pool copings, walkways, etc.

It Has a Modern Touch

The best part about marble pavers, coping, and other backyard constructions is that marble never goes out of style. It will never look outdated or tacky. Well-designed marble pavers will look modern and suit different types and decoration tastes. It adds prestige to the property it is used in and is generally well-loved for its stylish look. It can make your space look chic and attractive.

Gappsi Installs Marble Paver, Pool Coping & More!

Gappsi has more than 34 years of experience in offering complete home improvement services. We specialize in building custom marble pavers, patios, walkways, copings, and more. Our specialists can sit with you to understand your distinct requirements before starting the project so that you can be 100% satisfied with the results. We can help you make the right decisions for your pool coping and backyard pavers so that you can reap the benefits for years to come.

If you want custom marble pavers and pool copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties, contact us today.

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Travertine Patio Pavers & Pool Coping in Nassau & Suffolk Counties

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Travertine patio pavers and pool designs are one of the best choices a property owner can make for their backyard. Travertine pavers offer multiple undeniable benefits, making them ideal for backyard patios, fire pits, pool decks, stairs, decorative walls, and more. These natural stone pavers will enhance the beauty of your property’s landscape.

If you’re confused about whether you should choose Travertine pavers for your patios and pool copings or not, read the following benefits of constructing travertine patios and pool copings:

Benefits of Travertine Patios & Pool Copings

Here are some benefits of installing travertine patios and pool copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties:

Durability

Travertine is an exceptionally durable material that can withstand extreme temperatures. Using this material for pool coping and patios will work in your favor as it can withstand foot traffic. It’s why travertine is often used in areas with heavy foot traffic, such as patios, walkways, and even driveways.

Water Absorption

A pool coping is right on the edge of the pool. It is the first thing your feet touch when you emerge from the swimming pool. Since your pool coping comes into direct contact with water, you need it to be water-absorbent. Concrete pavers do not offer water absorbency, leading them to crack and get damaged over time. On the other hand, travertine is the ideal choice because it can absorb water more efficiently. Hence, using it for your pool coping and patio will help them last a long time.

Eco-Friendliness

Travertine is an eco-friendly stone as it undergoes an environmentally-friendly manufacturing process compared to marble. So, travertine is the way to go if you want to adopt sustainable life choices and home improvement projects for your backyard. Furthermore, this natural stone is exceptionally low-maintenance. It stays intact significantly longer than concrete, making it a cost-effective and sustainable choice.

Long-Lasting & Non-Fading

Since travertine patio pavers are durable, they last a long time. These stone pavers are fade-resistant and keep mold and mildew at bay. They can withstand continued exposure to sunlight without losing color for a long time.

Aesthetic Appeal & Curb Value

Lastly, travertine has an undeniable pull that adds to its aesthetic appeal. It has charming and distinctive limestone swirls that add to its beauty. Travertine tiles have a layered, mottled texture and distinct look. Since travertine patio pavers and pool copings are visually pleasing, they can add to your property’s curb appeal. When you sell your property, prospective buyers might be willing to pay more for the luxurious travertine patio and pool construction.

Cool to the Touch

When you get out of your pool, the last thing you want is to step on a sweltering surface. Travertine pavers in Nassau & Suffolk Counties are also ideal for pool copings. Travertine is cool to the touch, enabling you to walk barefoot on these surfaces.

Slip-Resistant

Adding travertine pool tiles and patio pavers to your yard will enhance your safety by preventing accidental falls. Travertine is a slip-resistant material due to its naturally rough surface. It’s an excellent choice for pool copings and decks since you have to step on them with wet feet, which increases the likelihood of slip and fall accidents.

No Efflorescence

Efflorescence is a powdery white substance commonly observed on concrete surfaces. You need to clean the surface to remove it thoroughly. Travertine pavers do not have efflorescence. It’s a popular choice for people who want a hassle-free patio and backyard that does not require much cleaning. Travertine is easy to clean and retains its look for a long time.

Maintain Your Travertine Patio Pavers & Pool Coping

Even though travertine patio pavers or tiles are water-resistant, they can gradually accumulate stains. Furthermore, since your pool coping is close to loose soil and the water from the pool, it can collect dirt and stubborn stains that settle into its natural pores. You can prevent this by sealing these pavers and copings every three to five years. It will help ensure your patio and coping do not suffer from preventable damage.

Cleaning & Sealing Travertine Patio Pavers

Gappsi also provides its clients with immaculate patio paver cleaning and sealing services. We can clean, seal, and restore your old patios with our state-of-the-art machinery and expertise that spans decades. We steam-clean the surface and then apply top-quality polymeric sand to it. Then, our experts use industry-grade vibrating equipment to settle the sand into the deck.

We also use a mechanical plate compactor and apply a top-tier Polyurethane sealer to seal the patio so that it looks as good as new. Moreover, sealing provides your patio with a polished and chic look that keeps the travertine pavers from looking rough and unappealing. After proper cleaning and sealing, the shine can enhance your property’s curb appeal. It also protects your paved patio from water damage, unsightly cracks, weeds, mildew, algae, and continued sunlight exposure. The sealant also draws out the color of the travertine patio pavers.

Why Choose Gappsi for Travertine Patio Pavers & Pool Coping Construction

Gappsi has decades of experience as a leading masonry designer and installation company on Long Island. Our travertine pavers in Nassau & Suffolk Counties are second to one. We use high-quality materials for our pavers and pool coping construction. Gappsi has a vast collection of natural stone pavers that will look exceptional with your existing design. We can customize your patio based on your vision with our exquisite natural stone paver collection.

Moreover, our experts offer a detailed initial consultation, complete 3D designs of the layout, stamped architectural and engineering designs, and more. Rest assured, we will handle the project for you and ensure the result exceeds your expectations. Lastly, we can clean and seal your pavers and copings so that they appear new after years of use.

So, if you wish to get travertine patio pavers and pool copings, contact Gappsi today!

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Natural Limestone Patio And Pool Long Island NY

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Choosing The Right Stone For A Pool Deck

Natural-Limestone-Patio-And-Pool-Long-Island-NYWhen choosing the right stone such as a natural limestone patio and pool Long Island NY it’s important to embrace some practical and aesthetic considerations.  Whether it’s an elegant light-colored limestone perfect for a hot summer day, a natural fieldstone emulating the feel of a deep woods swimming hole, or reclaimed granite with its timeless weathered beauty, the following points will help in selecting the best stone for a pool deck or patio area.

The Four S’s to Consider

  • Style – The overall appearance of a pool deck and patio may vary depending on style. It could be sophisticated versus a more rustic look and feel.  The sophisticated style generally has clean lines while a rustic style offers an earthy feel and look with more natural, rougher lines.
  • Surface –  The texture of the stone has a big impact on the look as well as the feel of your patio surface.
    • A split face surface, like a reclaimed plank paver, gives a rustic look to the area.
    • A natural cleft surface comes from stones that are split by man along a natural seam in the stone.  This gives the surface an organic feel with a flatter surface compared to a rough split surface.
  • Shapes and Patterns – Stone shapes, whether irregularly shaped or straight edge squares and rectangles, may completely change the design of a pool deck as different design patterns will also,
  • Scale – It is important to think about the size of the stones. Deciding on small, medium, or large stones determine the look and feel of a pool deck area.

PRO TIP: If the deck space is large, consider using larger-sized pieces to give it a grand feeling. Smaller pieces may be used for more intricate patterns and offer a more sophisticated look.

  • Color – Natural stone comes in a variety of colors in addition to color combinations. Deciding on the stone consider if the pool is in direct sunlight for large amounts of time, then a lighter-colored stone would be good to keep the temperature down. Choose a color or color theme that relates to your home, or office building, as well as other stones in the nearby area.

The Right Stone For The Right Condition

A complement to the surrounding landscape, natural stone pool coping is as practical as it is attractive. Natural stone is durable and resists freeze-thaw cycles.

  • Heat Underfoot – Comfortable underfoot is important when choosing a stone for a pool deck and patio. Which type of stone will help to keep the surface cooler? The answer is a stone with less heat absorption. In general, lighter-colored stones have less heat absorption.
  • Freeze-Thaw – If the pool will be located in a freeze-thaw weather zone, be sure to pick a stone with lower water absorption for the pool deck. Granites, basalts, and porphyry top the charts in this category and will hold up to all weather conditions. We have also hand-picked some freeze-thaw-resistant limestones and sandstones that will work well.
  • Slip Resistance – The last thing you want is a slippery stone for a pool deck and patio. Luckily, adjustments to surface texture and joints can make a huge difference when it comes to creating a slip-resistant deck.

In addition to considering the appearance of the texture, consider the effect it has on the perceived slipperiness of a stone. Man-made surfaces provide excellent grip and some split surfaces tend to be less slippery. In general, stone surfaces with indentations and irregularities provide a better grip.

Natural-Limestone-Patio-And-Pool-Long-Island-NY3WIDE JOINTS VS MANY JOINTS

Wide joints between pavers or joints that have grass or other vegetation growing between them make the overall pool deck surface less slippery.

When there are many joints, your feet are always touching multiple joints which helps you naturally grip the surface and it is, therefore, more slip-resistant.

Pool Deck Materials We LOVE at Gappsi

Limestone – The luxurious feel and look of limestone make it a great choice for a pool deck.

Sandstone – A sedimentary rock composed of sand-size grains of mineral, rock, or organic material. Many sandstone materials are great for pool decks as their split surfaces are naturally slip-resistant. Colors range from beige to brown to gray-blue.

Granite – A coarse-grained igneous rock, granite has a high content of quartz and feldspar giving it a speckled appearance. One of the most durable quarried stones from around the world, granite is nearly always massive, hard, and tough.

Bluestone – Bluestone is actually a sandstone with a deep blue color but also appears with other hues such as shades of gray and brown. Bluestone is known for its advantageous price point. Natural cleft bluestone is quite slip-resistant.

Travertine – A form of limestone deposited by mineral springs, especially hot springs. Travertine often has a fibrous or concentric appearance and exists in white, tan, cream-colored, and even rusty varieties.

Marble – Marble can have beautiful pattern movement within the stone and comes in a wide variety of colors from white to salmon to gray, blue, green, and black.

Natural-Limestone-Patio-And-Pool-Long-Island-NY2Limestone Patio And Pool Long Island NY

Kidney-shaped gunite swimming pools remodeled in Center Island NY. We installed new stairs across the shallow area and porcelain tiles in the water line. The pool was totally remodeled with new plumbing and a new finish. We used super blue diamond bright and tile markers on the edge of the steps. The patio consists of G44 limestone in a french pattern and two inches of G044 Marble Limestone all selected from the Gappsi natural stone collection. Very beautiful property, a very beautiful setting. The latest gunite remodels by Gappsi.

SCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI
VIEW OUR VIDEO OF A NATURAL LIMESTONE PATIO AND POOL LONG ISLAND NY

 

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