Gunite Pool Construction Close To Home Backyard Design Sag Harbor NY

Sag-harbor-gunite-pool-construction-backyard-design1Thinking about adding a gunite pool construction close to home?  If you are installing a pool in your backyard, there are many types to choose from. As you research information on a potential new backyard swimming pool, you will often encounter the term “gunite.” Gunite swimming pools are popular because they are highly durable and they can be created in just about any shape.

Gunite is a concrete blend of sand, cement, and water that’s applied through a high-pressure hose. Once it dries, gunite becomes rock hard, forming a thick, solid structure. It is exceedingly durable, so swimming pools made of this substance are built to last.

Gunite Pool Construction Benefits

  • Built to Last: Concrete is durable and porous, allowing the plaster-coated shell to hold water, provide stability, and be replastered when needed, adding to its longevity.
  • Variety of Finishes: Various materials can be added to pool surfaces made of concrete or plaster, including tile, stone, and man-made textures.
  • Variety of Features: Attach waterfalls, custom steps, and so much more to the pool design.
  • Versatility: Gunite pools give you the ability to customize the shape of the pool. This is perfect for those wanting an extremely deep or large pool, or a pool with custom tanning ledges.

Gunite Pool Construction Backyard Design Sag Harbor NY

Our team at Gappsi designed and installed a gunite pool close to the home in Sag Harbor NY.  We built the patio with G044 Limestone and installed a sundeck in the shallow area of the pool.  The stairs within the pool design were free-formed to accommodate the backyard.  The sun deck and stairs were veneered with glass tiles.  The same glass tiles were used in the waterline of the pool.

Sag-harbor-gunite-pool-construction-backyard-design3What are the advantages of glass tiles?

The tiles reflect the light to give your pool the appearance of being brighter and larger. Glass tile is impervious to liquids and resistant to staining and discoloration, which means cleaning generally only requires a simple wipe down. If you dislike mold with a passion then this is a great choice for your bathroom or swimming pool.

Cooking Island Adds Functionality!

A cooking island was installed near the pool and home.  Included in the design was a Twin Eagles Grill, an outdoor refrigerator, and a built-in sink, the cooking island adds to the small backyard’s functionality. A wall with bricks was added at the edge of the property to accommodate the fence as well.  This was a very detailed project and the latest design from Gappsi in Sag Harbor NY.

Why Have Your Pool Close To Your Home?

The problem is that people don’t anticipate exactly how they will eventually use their pool, and weigh that properly against other factors.  Here are five reasons you might want to keep your pool close at hand.

Space:  In this home located in Sag Harbor, space was why the pool was installed close to the home.  Not everyone has the luxury of a large backyard, in many cases, placing the pool close to the house is the only option. However, even when you have some area to work with, keeping the pool tucked into a corner close to the house might be the most efficient use of space. Why not save the rest of your yard for other activities?

Convenience:  You’re going to be making many trips to and from your pool.  About half of them, you’re going to be dripping wet. It’s hard to overstate how handy it is for swimmers to have easy access to a shower and toilet. If you plan to entertain, or just eat meals on your pool patio, it’s also convenient to have the kitchen close by.  Another convenience is having a garage or other storage area nearby helping make pool maintenance a bit easier.

Sag-harbor-gunite-pool-construction-backyard-design

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Aesthetics:  A pool is more than just a recreational area. When thoughtfully designed, it’s also great eye candy for your property. Keeping the pool close to the house allows you to enjoy the scenery more – which is especially nice in warmer climates where you can keep your pool open most or all of the year. Many people also love the sound of water, and incorporate things like waterfalls to produce perfectly tranquil background noise for their home.

Privacy:  In many cases, a simple fence doesn’t provide the sort of privacy people want for their swimming pool. Trees, shrubs, and other plants are needed to fill in the gaps. However, this is much less of an issue when the pool is close to the house, which serves as the ultimate view-blocker.

Safety:  While safety comes last on the list, it’s a primary concern for parents of young children who are thinking about building an inground pool. Having the swimming pool right outside your door makes it much easier to see and hear everything that goes on in it. Just as important, it allows you to get to the scene quicker if an accident happens. When it comes to pool safety, it’s no exaggeration to say that every second counts.

We have gathered together the most talented designers and craftsmen to help create “A True Masterpiece” right in your very own backyard. Contact us TODAY for a FREE consultation to get started on your backyard Masterpiece.

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Natural Limestone Driveway Design and Installation in Laurel Hollow NY

limestoneLaurel-Hollow-Natural-Limestone-Driveway-design-and-installation2Don’t overlook the beauty of your driveway, we recently completed a natural limestone driveway design and installation in Laurel Hollow NY. A simple way to enhance your curb appeal is by using limestone pavers for your driveway. Rich creamy tans, weathered grays, deep burgundies – limestone’s natural palette provides options for any style. The stone’s hardy composition stands up to vehicles while adding elegance to the entrance.

Usually, the driveway is an entry point when your guests come with cars or a vehicle. They will examine your home based on driveway experiences. So, it is a good opportunity to improve the beauty of the driveway by selecting the right material for its construction and decorating the landscape surrounding it throughout the entire path.

Limestone is an eco-friendly paving material, as it’s a natural material that requires little to no treatment when installed for a driveway.  Natural limestone is the ideal choice if you want to bring natural beauty to your outside with its distinctive colors and subtle texture. Quarried straight from the earth, with no chemicals, pure in its habitat state guaranteeing you or no one else will have a paver the same!

Why Is Limestone Good For A Driveway?

The porous nature of limestone lets water drain through quickly, to prevent water logging or standing water. If you live in a region that gets lots of rain, this feature can be a game-changer that saves you from dealing with a water-logged driveway.

Limestone has become a popular construction material for driveways due to its durability and ease of installation.  It is a strong, durable, and heat-resistant material. When subjected to heavy loads and high temperatures, it does not crack or crumble easily.  This quality in a paver is attractive to homeowners especially because it is also highly resistant to weathering due to its high tannin content. They are perfect for areas that experience heavy downpours or snowfall.  The stone can withstand frost-freezing cycles without chipping off when properly installed with adequate support underneath it during installation.

Laurel-Hollow-Natural-Limestone-Driveway-design-and-installation3Why Choose Natural Stone?

  • Up to 10 times stronger than concrete
  • Pre-cut sizes and gauged thickness
  • Choice of installation methods, no new techniques
  • Unique and attractive with great color choices
  • Will not fade or expose aggregate over time
  • Frost resistant and long-lasting
  • Recyclable and eco-friendly

What Driveway Paver Size Are You Considering?

A shift to large-format natural stone for both residential and commercial driveway systems is gaining popularity. Natural stone in all formats–traditional (small 4”x4”, 6”x6” cubes or random length) or the larger formats (which are gaining traction with architects and designers–with its aesthetic and structural benefits), makes it a strong alternative to concrete pavers.

What Are the Different Types of Limestone Paving Textures & Colors?

When it comes to limestone paving, the options are incredibly diverse. We encourage you to explore the various types of limestone available. Each offers unique textures and colors to suit different aesthetic preferences. For example, you can opt for the elegance of beige or cream-toned limestone, or the warmth of golden or honey-colored limestone. Some types of limestone may showcase natural veining or fossils, adding further character and charm to your outdoor space. Choose from smooth and polished finishes to textured or antiqued surfaces; you can’t go wrong. The different types of limestone paving allow you to create a truly custom look that enhances the beauty of your surroundings.

Laurel-Hollow-Natural-Limestone-Driveway-design-and-installationCreate Interesting Patterns with Limestones in Your Driveway

We know natural stones come in various sizes and shapes. If we select square and rectangular shapes and the different sizes of slabs, we can end with an interesting design pattern. You can also leave some grouts wide and create thin belts in your design. Natural variations in stones give it a rustic look and different colors and hues add a decent charm to the driveway design patterns. Limestone and slates are the most befitting material for the creation of such stone designs and patterns.

Even though driveways are more about functionality rather than their looks, your cars deserve a beautiful parking spot! Pretty driveways are getting popular today as they add great value to your property and boost its curb appeal.

Laurel-Hollow-Natural-Limestone-Driveway-design-and-installation1Natural Limestone Driveway Design and Installation in Laurel Hollow NY

This large driveway was designed and installed by Gappsi in Laurel Hollow NY. The apron of the driveway was paved with granite 6×9 tumbled pavers. The driveway is all natural stones, a combination of granite and limestone. The main field of the driveway we used was a small set home paver G045 limestone leading to the courtyard front door. In the front courtyard, we used Gappsi G046 small set of limestone. It is a beautiful combination of all-natural colors, browns, grays, maroons, and blue. We also installed a Belgian block border. The all-driveway blue limestone was bordered with beige granite.

This is a very large driveway with over 15,000 square feet of natural stone pavers. There is also a courtyard in the back area of the house, leading to the garage doors. The backyard includes a raised patio where we used cultured stones along with Eldorado cultured stones, and veneered coping with travertine. Beautiful colors of the natural stones. The driveway was completed over 10 years ago.  Our Cleaning and Sealing team sealed the driveway and resanded the joints. We used high-quality sealers and the best quality polymeric sand; it looks better than it ever has. This is the latest job by Gappsi in Laurel Hollow NY. 

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Marble Patio Backyard Renovation Hauppauge NY

Marble-Patio-Backyard-Renovation-Hauppauge-NY-3Check out Gappsi’s latest marble patio backyard renovation located on Long Island New York.  The outdoor areas of your home can serve as a beautiful and functional extension to the inside. With the right architecture and landscaping, your outdoor space can transform into a stunning aspect of your home that draws attention and welcomes friends and loved ones.

Whether you are looking to update your patio space, add a pool area, or create a truly unique outdoor experience – we can help.

MARBLE PATIO – GAPPSI NATURAL STONE COLLECTION

We started with redoing the patio masonry and installing G040 Marble Pavers. Marble, known for its elegance and sophistication is a popular natural stone option.  Marble pavers can add a sense of luxury and boldness to your outdoor space that other stones just can’t do. Due to the natural veining patterns in marble, your pavers will each be unique in addition, they will enhance the beauty of your entire outdoor oasis.

Marble Features

  • Skid Resistance
  • Naturally Cool
  • Durability
  • Low Maintenance
  • No two stones are the same

Marble-Patio-Backyard-Renovation-Hauppauge-NY-5A U-shaped outdoor kitchen was installed and veneered with Nantucket Eldorado cultured stones.  The classic elegance and intricate detail of small stones combined with the simplicity of a panel system give this stone the appearance of a precision hand-laid dry-stack set. This stone type makes installation easy for expansive walls and column fascias alike.

In the outdoor kitchen, we installed all Twin Eagles appliances, including a sink, a separate bar sink, storage cabinets, and a Summit refrigerator.  Transform your backyard into a full-service kitchen.  Gappsi offers an extensive collection of built-in under-counter outdoor refrigerators, freezers, kegerators, and icemakers by Summit. Their weatherproof selection brings safe and stylish food service to any home or commercial setting.

PRIMO GRILL SMOKER

Adding to the backyard cooking experience is a Primo Grill Smoker as well as an Alfa Pizza Oven.  The invention of the wheel has nothing on the patented Primo Oval design smoking system.  Primo has the size grill for you whether you are tailgating & camping, grilling for the family in the backyard, or hosting a large gathering.  From their flagship Jack Daniel’s Edition Oval XL 400 to the classic round Kamado. Every Primo grill is a primary outdoor cooker.  Anyone can be added to a built-in outdoor kitchen or to complement an existing grill or smoker.  Gappsi installed the X-Large Charcoal Primo Grill.  The grill provides the largest cooking area and the patented oval shape offers superior cooking efficiency and accessibility. Grill, bake, roast, or smoke any food.

Marble-Patio-Backyard-Renovation-Hauppauge-NYALFA FORNI PIZZA OVEN

The Alfa Pizza Oven is the secret to savoring pizza at home that’s just as good as a pizzeria’s. With so many designs to choose from which one is right for you?  Choose the aesthetic line that best represents you and enhances your outdoor spaces.  Enjoy grilling, baking, and stewing delicious meals, and test yourself with Alfa Forni’s delicious recipes. These pizza ovens are characterized by careful design, high-quality materials, and attention to detail. Alfa’s designs are suitable for both rustic and modern design homes, for use indoors, in the garden, or on the terrace. Alfa transforms the traditional way of cooking into an object of design. Discover the full range of wood-fired ovens of Alfa Forni.  We installed the Alfa Forni FUTURO 4 Pizza oven.

SWIMMING POOL

The backyard swimming pool was also remodeled with new plumbing and new equipment.  Replacing your equipment or reworking the plumbing can help to make all your equipment run more efficiently which can lead to several benefits including reduced costs to operate your pool, a cleaner and clearer pool, and less wear and tear on your pool pump.

Marble-Patio-Backyard-Renovation-Hauppauge-NY-4The patio consists of G040 marble pavers selected from the Gappsi Natural Stone Collection. We used a French pattern for the patio and two-inch copings for the pool edges.  Marble pavers are a great choice for the pool area. Marble pavers resist bacteria, preventing any harmful elements from thriving in the pool area. Tumbled marble pavers provide a strong grip to prevent slipping and falling incidents.

Marble tiles are heat resistant too, which means that anyone walking around the pool area will keep their feet cool, making it less likely to injure themselves from the sun’s heat.  This is an exceptionally important consideration if you have children and the elderly living with you.

With the huge options available for pool coping, the possibilities are wide. You can experiment with different styles based on your taste. In most cases, homeowners prefer neutral colors and materials to ensure that the coping effortlessly merges with the existing look. However, with customized options, you have the complete flexibility to design your space just the way you want.

Marble-Patio-Backyard-Renovation-Hauppauge-NY1MONTIGO FIREPLACE

We built a new fireplace and installed a Montigo fireplace insert.  Montigo’s lines of exceptional fireplaces may be just what you’re looking for. The signature design of Montigo fireplaces means you’ll always get sleek styling and a great view of your fire, whether you have them installed indoors or out. This particular model has a blower as well inside to blow hot hair up to the sitting area. The fireplace structure was veneered with Nantucket Eldorado cultured stones and G040 coping for the shelves of the fireplace.

LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

Some landscaping of the backyard area was completed with Gappsi’s team by adding to the existing landscape. Landscape design allows you to embrace nature in a manicured and predictable way, but the plants themselves have other benefits. Adding rich amounts of foliage may improve the air quality around your home. Plants absorb harmful pollutants and chemicals, purifying the air without the use of electricity or machinery.

Marble-Patio-Backyard-Renovation-Hauppauge-NY-2PATIO SEALING

The patio was sealed also to help prevent weeds.  Sealing the stones also makes it easier to clean and protect the pavers. This is the latest Gappsi Backyard renovation in Hauppauge NY. Text us now at 631-543-1177 to schedule your meeting with Giuseppe.

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Should You Add A Gazebo, Pergola, Or Pavilion To Your Home?

Should-You-Add-A-Gazebo-Pergola-Or-Pavilion-To-Your-Home3If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s outdoor space, you may be thinking should you add a gazebo, pergola, or pavilion to your home?  While all three types of outdoor structures are great options, you may wonder which is best for your home. Although they have similar jobs providing shade and weather protection each outdoor structure has its own unique design and features.

Gazebo vs Pavilion vs Pergola: Which One To Choose?

Structures like gazebos, pavilions, and pergolas are great for adding comfort, functionality, and style to your outdoor living space.

The first thing to consider when adding an outdoor structure to your yard is to decide on the style you want to build. While gazebos, pavilions, and pergolas are similar, they do have differences. Gazebos are traditionally built in a round or octagonal shape and contain a proper roof structure. In contrast, pergolas are built in a square or rectangular shape and offer partial covering. Pergolas tend to provide less coverage with their open roofs although they can also be modified to include more cover.

While gazebos and pergolas both serve to provide aesthetics and shade to your yard, the main difference between a pergola and gazebo is the floor and roof. A gazebo has a full roof, meaning it offers more shade and protection from the sun and outside elements. Pergolas have slatted roofs which allow the sun (and all the outside elements) to come through the roof. While there are a variety of types of gazebos and pergolas, the floor of the structure is also often different. Typically (not always) gazebos use the same material as the roof for the floor- so a wooden gazebo will be connected to a wooden floor. Pergolas can be built anywhere and be freestanding-however we recommend it’s rooted in cement.

Should You Add A Gazebo?GAZEBO

Gazebos are freestanding structures that stand on their own and have a solid roof and several vertical posts or supports.  They offer complete shade and protection from the elements of the outdoors. Moreover, they are normally constructed in a conventional manner, taking the form of a rectangle and including an elevated level that can be left open to the public or partitioned off using privacy walls.  They are also often of a more compact size and are ideally suited for use at social events or gatherings including families.

A gazebo is the ideal building for those who want a smaller, more private outdoor living area.

Gazebo Pros & Cons

  • Full shade and shelter from the elements.
  • 360-degree views.
  • Latticework and drapes can be used for added privacy.
  • Increases property value.
  • Cost varies depending on materials.
  • Challenging to keep clean.
  • The installation site must be leveled and well-drained.

Should-You-Add-A-PavilionPAVILIONS

A pavilion is a type of outdoor structure that offers a roofed area.  Pavilions have open walls but a sturdy roof. They frequently employ conventional building techniques and strive to maintain a traditional look.  Pavilions are great places to host outdoor events like barbecues and dinner parties.  They provide more protection from the elements than gazebos and have room for more people, making them ideal for celebrations like birthdays and even family reunion reunions.

Pavilions offer an excellent solution for those seeking an expansive outdoor living area with enhanced protection against the elements.

Pavilion Pros & Cons

  • Many options in terms of size, style, and roof shapes.
  • Better protection from sun and rain.
  • Can be integrated with a pergola to extend the covered space.
  • Can be enclosed for added weather protection and privacy.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Permanent structure that requires careful planning.
  • Lack of privacy.
  • More expensive than other outdoor structures.

Should You Add A Gazebo?PERGOLAS

A pergola is an outdoor structure with a roof consisting of horizontal beams or slats that span between upright columns.  They’re bigger than average, so you can still enjoy some airiness while also getting some shade and seclusion.  They are great for entertaining big groups of people in the garden and adding a rustic vibe. Together with some climbing plants and a fire pit, they make for a cozy outdoor room and living space.

Pergolas are an excellent choice for designing a charming outdoor living area that enables you to relish the outdoors in a sophisticated manner.

Pergola Pros & Cons

  • Countless size, shape, and style options.
  • Can be independent or attached to an existing structure.
  • Easily combined with a pavilion to extend the covered space.
  • Easy to keep clean.
  • Cost-effective.
  • Minimal site preparation required.
  • Some shade, but minimal protection from elements and bugs.
  • Limited options for roof styles.
  • Lack of privacy.

Gazebos are perfect for adding traditional style as well as privacy to your outdoor area. In addition, they give complete shade from the sun.  

However, pavilions provide additional shelter from the weather, making them ideal for bigger family gatherings and other outdoor events.

Smaller outdoor areas benefit greatly from pergolas because of their ability to add almost everything to your backyard that’s needed to feel comfortable and enjoy it for an affordable price.

Backyard Renovations Complete With A Pergola East Northport NY (1)Some popular add-ons include:

  • Electricity for lighting, outlets, and other features.
  • Gas lines for fire features or outdoor kitchens.
  • Screens, retractable doors, and enclosed sides for added privacy and weather protection.
  • Built-in seating.
  • Roof features, such as a louvered pergola roof with rotating blades.

No matter what outdoor structure you choose, you can’t go wrong. All three structures are beautiful and when done right, can boost the value of your home. The key is to work with an experienced, reputable home remodeling contractor like Gappsi!

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In-Ground Pool Water Slides Are They Worth It?

In-Ground-Pool-Water-Slides-Are-They-Worth-It4In-ground pool water slides are a great way to add a ton of fun and excitement to your pool. You can turn your pool into a water playground with the feel of a water park.  With this one addition, there are many choices available.  With all the different styles and sizes you can be sure to find something that your family and friends will enjoy for many years!

Create the backyard oasis you’ve always dreamed of and make every weekend your luxury vacation with a backyard waterslide from Gappsi.

Are Pool Water Slides Worth It?

Pool slides are a great way to up the fun factor! Make your swimming pool the most popular summer destination in your neighborhood.  If we’ve learned anything during our many years in the swimming pool industry, it’s this:

Kids LOVE swimming pools, no matter the type, size, or cost!

Throw in a couple of pool toys, and they won’t get out for the rest of the summer.  Add a pool slide, and the pool practically becomes Disneyland.

In-Ground-Pool-Water-Slides-Are-They-Worth-It3Types of Pool Slides

There are many different types of pool slides available, including straight slides, wavy slides, and spiral slides. No matter what type of slide you choose, make sure that it is safe for your children. Choose a slide that is made of durable materials, and that is properly installed.

Given all the varieties of pool slides available,  it’s just a matter of choosing.   Does the slide work with your pool and the ages of those who will be enjoying it?  In addition, to choosing a slide based on adventure level, color, and price there are a few other considerations that you will have to factor into your decision including:

  • deck space
  • mounting options
  • weight limit
  • water supply

It’s important to consider the location of your water slide.  There are minimum depth requirements and restrictions on the distance from the edge of your pool that vary with different slides.

In-Ground-Pool-Water-Slides-Are-They-Worth-It2How Deep Does The Pool Need To Be For A Pool Slide?

How deep your pool must be will depend on the size of your slide. For example, if the slide is meant for small children, the pool depth can be shallower. If the pool slide is for users 48 inches or taller, you’ll need a deeper pool.

*Pro tip: Manufacturers of pool slides provide these specifications to make it easy.

If you’re just trying to get a basic idea of how deep your pool has to be for a slide, the minimum requirements are as follows:

♦ For smaller slides: If the distance between the end of the slide and the water is 3 inches or less, the water must only be 2 feet deep.

♦ For larger slides that accommodate people 48 inches or taller: The water must be at least 3 feet, with some companies requiring deeper.  Slides that do not decelerate the slider: The depth of the water should be 11 ½ feet.  Slides that have twists and level out, slowing the slider: 3 to 4-foot water depth at landing is adequate.

S.R. Smith’s range of CPSC-compliant pool slides includes a removable pool slide, a line of deck-mounted slides, and custom pool slides.

Our residential water slides feature reinforcements down the ride surface making them the strongest and highest quality residential water slides on the market by utilizing the exact same manufacturing methods and using the same materials as commercial water slides. The only difference between our slides and commercial slides is that ours are only a few inches smaller!

In-Ground-Pool-Water-Slides-Are-They-Worth-It1Benefits Of A Water Slide

  • Create an upscale resort feel in your backyard
  • Add value while enhancing the beauty of your landscaping and pool design
  • Bring years of safe enjoyment and pleasure to your home
  • Provide entertainment for family & friends
  • Extend your vacation time from one week to the entire summer!

Salt Water Pool Friendly Slides

If you own a saltwater pool you may have questions about whether a slide is suitable for saltwater.  Providing your pool is balanced and your water health is kept up you shouldn’t notice any additional wear on the slide or its parts.

If you are concerned and for warranty purposes we do recommend using a slide that is salt pool friendly for the added peace of mind.  The synthetic materials used in the construction of salt-friendly slides are incredibly durable in all water conditions, weather, and of course a lot of use.  Look for this symbol or something similar when shopping for in-ground pool slides.

In-Ground-Pool-Water-Slides-Are-They-Worth-ItWhy Purchase From Gappsi?

As a family-owned business with over 36 years of experience, we partner with you every step of the way to ensure you have a stellar experience and receive the highest quality pool slide available to you. We are committed to superior customer service, transparency, safety, and fun!

As parents ourselves, we understand the investment you are making to ensure your family time is the best it can possibly be. We treat every homeowner and every project like it is our own – to ensure each waterslide is made to the highest safety and quality standards.

Making your dreams come true is the driving force behind everything we do. Your fun is our priority and our passion! We’ll work super hard to make sure your Gappsi Water Slide can be enjoyed for years to come!

We look forward to working with you on your next project!

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