Can You Cook Anything In A Brick Oven?

Posted by gappsigroup on

Brick Oven Bread MakingAre you wondering if it’s really worth investing in a pizza oven or can you cook anything in a brick oven?

Did you know that is just the start of what you can cook in a wood-fired pizza oven? There are so many different options and recipes available, both in terms of the style of cooking and the food you can create.

What Foods Can Be Cooked in a Pizza Oven?

The amazing thing about wood-fired pizza ovens is just how versatile they are. Just like with your regular oven in your kitchen, you can pretty much cook anything you like – all you need is the right tools and to find the right temperature.

Once you have got the hang of your outdoor pizza oven, you can cook foods such as:

  • Roasted vegetables
  • Baked or grilled fish
  • Slow cooked meats
  • Flamed ribeye steak
  • Smoked and barbecued meats
  • Jacket potatoes
  • Freshly baked bread loaves
  • Focaccia and flatbreads
  • Side dishes such as shrimp, potato wedges, and baked feta
  • Stews and casseroles
  • Hot desserts
  • In fact, you really can be as adventurous as you like!

Are You Unsure Why You Use A Brick Oven?

One of the main benefits of cooking with a brick oven is that it can reach higher temperatures than a conventional oven. This is due to the fact that bricks are excellent thermal conductors, meaning they can quickly and evenly distribute heat.

How Does A Wood-Fired Brick Oven Work?

After starting a fire in the oven, the dome chamber absorbs the heat until it becomes white hot (sometimes up to 800 Fahrenheit or more). At that point, the fire is either extinguished or left burning gently. The embers from the fire can be swept out before using the oven to cook. Once the oven is up to the correct temperature, the oven door is closed to contain the heat. After the heat has lessened a bit and evened itself throughout the oven, it’s ready to use. The heat that has been absorbed by the oven walls and floor now radiates from them.

Construction of Outdoor Italian Brick Ovens by Gappsi IncWhat Materials Are Used To Build A Wood-Fired Brick Oven?

A wood-fired brick oven can be built from regular red clay bricks but the placement and design are key to a consistent temperature. They can also be built from a heat-resistant concrete mix or refractory fire bricks used in kilns. Ovens often have fancy trim or decorative brickwork as they are constructed by specially trained craftsmen, frequently trained in southern Italy. If the wood-fired brick oven is meant to cook pizza, the walls are thinner. Ovens meant for bread have thicker walls that hold the heat longer.

What Fuel Does A Wood-Fired Brick Oven Use?

As long as it isn’t coated with fire-retardant chemicals or paint, any type of wood can be used. Tree branches, waste wood, and old furniture also work well.

A wood-fired brick oven is a great tool for making pizzeria-quality pizza and meals of all kinds. However, it involves some expertise to monitor the temperature for optimal results, and get the perfect pizza you desire.

They all come with a standard finish. Which includes stucco, pebble rocks, random cut stones, and tiles. We also offer custom finishes to your specifications such as personalized engraving of your favorite pictures hand-painted by our artists on the exterior of the

Brick Ovens Construction Methods

As part of our Brick Ovens Construction Methods, we can also cast your desired words on the oven metal door. If you are in the market for a brick oven and do enough researches you will learn about the Biscotto di Sorrento, many companies that use something similar to the Biscotto di Sorrento will make a big deal about it, and also will charge you more money as an upgrade of the floor of the oven. Many of you would ask? What is the Biscotto di Sorrento? The Biscotti di Sorrento is a terracotta brick manufactured from clay that is only found in Italy in the region of Campania in the Sorrento area on the Amalfi coast. This clay is rich in natural minerals that will absorb, retain and release the heat uniformly; making your cooking process the most natural cooking experience you can get using a brick oven.

The difference between a Gappsi Biscotto di Sorrento and the competition is that many companies claim to use the only use to make the base on the oven,

Gappsi builds the entire oven, floor, walls, and dome with the same material. The Gappsi method of building brick ovens is a tradition that dates back over 300 years From one of the first producers of the Biscotto di Sorrento is still in business in Italy today after many generations.

What Makes Our Italian Brick Ovens Superior?

We construct Gappsi’s brick pizza ovens in Nassau & Suffolk County using a special clay. We get this clay from Sorrento, Italy, and mix it using a traditional mixer. This particular clay is rich in volcanic pumice and silicon. We place a wood mold on top of a platform and spread the clay in it by hand. It creates a spongy finished product, which allows the heat to spread evenly and slowly in the finished oven. Our clay bricks cannot be mass-produced since we pour them by hand for each new Italian outdoor brick oven.

Can You Cook Anything In A Brick Oven?Outdoor wood Fired Oven Ridge Long Island NY

This Sorrento oven was delivered to a Gappsi client in ridge New York. The Sorrento oven has a Uniquely shaped smoke stack built on the outside of the oven over the volcanic marble mantel. The Sorrento oven stands on a custom-built cart constructed of fine materials starting with the stainless steel base and door. The exterior of the oven is veneered with rustic-cut brown limestone. This oven was sealed with a clear natural stone sealer to make it watertight and water-repellent. Gappsi offers many styles of ovens including custom-size options.  In addition, the oven can be fitted for gas, propane, or wood-fired, or we have a hybrid option as well.

Can You Cook Anything In A Brick OvenSCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI

View Gappsi’s YouTube channel for videos of Can You Cook Anything In A Brick Oven?

 

Share this page:

Pickleball Courts With Painted Asphalt

Posted by gappsigroup on

Pickleball-Courts-With-Painted-Asphalt2Pickleball Courts With Painted Asphalt or Concrete both provide an acceptable base for the courts. Make sure to review surfacing requirements before having the base installed, as there are recommended specifications for slope, drainage, surface finish, and overall construction.

A better court equals better and safer play. These guidelines are based on collected feedback from fellow members of the pickleball community, and while your situation may differ, we offer these as a starting point for those looking to get the most out of their court and their game.

We can provide you with free estimates for Pickleball court construction & resurfacing throughout Long Island New York. Pickleball has been around for quite a few years but has recently become one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. Backyard pickleball courts are a great investment for families and friends to enjoy and have a much smaller footprint than tennis courts. Contact us today and we can perform a site visit to see if a backyard pickleball court can be built within your available space.

Do You Have A Pickleball Court And Need Resurfacing?

The process of surfacing a pickleball court varies, and may include the application of a resurfacing material and/or a cushioned material, in addition to paint for color and texture and line-striping the court boundaries. Some jobs, such as repurposing tennis courts for pickleball, may only require line-striping.

Pickleball court resurfacing should be done every 4 to 8 years, depending on a variety of factors. Overall traffic, or usage, of the sports game courts, is the main factor. However, proper construction, slope, and drainage of the pickleball courts are also very important to the longevity of the slab and pickleball court surfaces. Gappsi is experienced in resurfacing larger Pickleball court facilities with multiple courts. These are ideal for tournaments, leagues, or park systems with a large demand for pickleball. Converting tennis or basketball courts to pickleball courts is also an option if there is more demand for pickleball courts. However, we recommend adding blended lines in another color to existing courts and keeping the existing sports lines. This way you make the most of your real estate and can play all sports in the same area.

Pickleball-Courts-With-Painted-Asphalt-&-Basketball-CourtsSurface Preparation Is Key To Successful Resurfacing

The pavement surface must be cleaned entirely of dust, dirt, and debris. Repair of pavement surface defects, depressions, and cracks should be completed prior to application. All repairs must be flush and smooth to adjoining surfaces for best results. New asphalt must cure 30 days and new concrete must cure 28 days prior to application. It is recommended that any uncoated/bare surface receive one or more coats of TCS Court Resurfacer as required by surface roughness and porosity to provide a smooth, dense underlayment for the application of color coatings. Concrete surfaces should have a light broom finish or a similar roughened texture.

Interested In Cushioned Pickleball Court Surfaces?

We can also install cushioned pickleball court surfaces. You can have a premium, softer playing surface for reducing shock on the joints and body. The system consists of multiple coats of rubber-filled acrylic coatings to produce cushioned padding beneath the colored surfaces.

The acrylic resurfacer is important for courts that intend to add a cushion layer. Without the resurfacing acrylic, the rubber wants to pile up instead of grabbing onto the texture below, and the rubber in the cushion product will fill the voids so the surface won’t feel as cushioned.

Cushioned pickleball courts are created by applying multiple layers of acrylic with small rubber granules using a soft rubber squeegee. To ensure even application, we recommend pouring out the cushion product in relatively small amounts, to prevent piles of rubber at the end of the squeegee pull. After spreading the cushion acrylic, Gappsi recommends being gentle while scraping any high spots.

You Do Not Have A PickleBall Court – Plan Your Sports Game Courts

If you are constructing a pickleball court from start to finish, one of the first considerations will be the size and layout of the court.
Pickleball courts measure 44 feet long and 20 feet wide, including the court’s boundary lines. The USAPA Rule Book recommends a minimum total playing surface of 30 by 60 feet, though 34 by 64 feet is preferred. Anytime multiple courts will be in close proximity, fencing between the courts is important to protect players on other courts.

Just as with other sports courts, it is ideal to orient the court north-south to limit the sun obstructing players’ vision and the impact of shadows on the court surface.

Coloring The PickleBall Sports Game Courts

The color coating USAPA recommends 100 percent acrylic paint for outdoor courts.  The color is typically applied with a minimum of two coats. Pickleball courts are smaller and are often used for doubles so there’s more wear because the players are always scuffing the same little boxes. It may be worth adding an extra coat to extend the life of the surface.

Although tennis courts tend to be painted blue or green, the USAPA says pickleball courts can be painted any color as long as it contrasts with the lines of the court.

You want to choose a color that contrasts with the color of the pickleballs.  Pickleballs are most often yellow, orange, or lime green. Generally, colors opposite from each other improve contrast. For example, if the balls are yellow, paint the court blue.

Multiple Pickleball Courts North Hills Country Club Nassau County NY

Pickleball-Courts-With-Painted-AsphaltGappsi installed three pickleball sports game courts including a basketball court at North Hills Country Club located in Nassau County NY. This is an addition to their sports complex of tennis courts and golf courts. We utilized an asphalt base, primed, and painted the courts with asphalt paint. The courts were painted blue and color striped with white lines as well as the surrounding area in green. Our team installed 24 x 24 squared Nicolock Pavers for the patio. For the basketball court, we used asphalt primed and painted in black. The keys were colored blue and striped with white. For all surrounding areas, we installed synthetic turf, which will make this enclosed area maintenance-free. The clients are very happy; this is a beautiful installation by Gappsi. 

SCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI

VIEW OUR VIDEO OF PICKLEBALL COURTS WITH PAINTED ASPHALT

Share this page:

Marble Pavers and Pool Copings in Nassau & Suffolk Counties

Posted by CDP on

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.

Share this page:

Nicolock Pavers For Patios And Pools

Posted by gappsigroup on

Nicolock Pavers For Patios And PoolsHomeowners on Long Island, New York are constantly looking for ways to boost both home value and curb appeal with Nicolock pavers for patios and pools.  Increasing curb appeal can boost home value. It’s a self-perpetuating circle of home value.

Nicolock Pavers Add Value & Curb Appeal to Suffolk & Nassau County Long Island Homes

Did you know that Nicolock pavers are manufactured in 1,000 different combinations of colors and textures? You can create a custom look to fit your style and your vision; by simply adding hardscaping elements to your backyard.  Some hardscape ideas to add are patios, walkways, and retaining walls to your backyard you add a touch of class to your living space.  Your outdoor space increases the home’s curb appeal too. Nicolock paving stones have great slip resistance with a “smooth as silk” appearance. They are ideal for patios, walkways, pool decks, and driveways. All Nicolock pavers use Nicolock’s patented Paver-Shield technology. The paver blocks have color throughout the entire block, giving them a richer more vibrant color that will not fade over time, and they provide superior protection against all outdoor elements.   Superior quality and protection make these paving blocks great for patios, driveways, poolside areas, and walkways.

Benefits vs Disadvantages of Pavers?

Nicolock is a 100% U.S.-owned and operated company specializing in the production of patio pavers and other hardscaping products. Nicolock manufactures a complete line of interlocking concrete paving stones, architectural paving slabs, precast concrete products, and segmental retaining wall systems.

Benefits of Paving Stones

  • Affordable: Nicolock paving slabs are beautiful and very cost-effective options. They are an affordable way to increase the aesthetic value and functionality of your home.
  • Curb Appeal: Nicolock paver patios are incredibly attractive and Nicolock’s patented manufacturing technology – Paver-Shield™ – ensures that your pavers will look great for a long, long time
  • Home Value: With an average return on investment (ROI) over 80%, according to Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value report, a new patio is an excellent way to boost your home value.
  • Durability: Because the rich, vibrant color is throughout the full thickness of the paver, it will not fade over time.
    Green: Nicolock manufactures several variations of eco-friendly permeable paving products.
  • Warranty: All Nicolock products come with a limited lifetime warranty.

Nicolock-Pavers-For-Patios-And-Pools2Disadvantages of Paving Stones

  • Moss will grow in between pavers: Just like weeds, moss growth in between pavers is a common problem. Moss likes to grow in wet, shady areas. If moss gets out of hand it can be a big pain.  It is important to note that it is not only unsightly, but it can be very slippery when wet.
  • Weeds will grow in between pavers: In between each of the pavers is a layer of sand that acts as a grout line. Over time, sand washes out and requires to be refilled periodically to maintain proper spacing. Homeowners can either do this on their own or hire a contractor to do it for them.  It is important to note that if restoring the sand is neglected, chances increase that weeds will grow in between each paver.
  • Pavers will wobble: Pavers always need a strong base, and many contractors who do not specialize in installing pavers fail to provide the strong base pavers need. Some contractors lay a scarce amount of sand under the pavers which can cause the pavers to sink.

Cleaning-and-Sealing-Paving-Stones1Long Island NY Stone Patios Driveways Cleaning Sealing Experts!

We are often asked, “Do I need to seal my pavers?” The short answer is YES!!! Cleaning and Sealing is an important maintenance tools to keep paver patios, walkways, driveways, and pool decks looking as beautiful as the day they were installed.

However, “too much of a good thing” can come into play.  You should be wary of over-applying paver sealer by reapplying too often, which could create a haze. Below are a few of the most popular questions we have received.  To read the entire list of questions check out the Cleaning and Sealing page:

Is it necessary to Seal Pavers?

Gappsi recommends sealing concrete pavers and cleaning regularly. Although paving stones use the highest quality cement, cement is a corrosive material.  Cement wears under natural elements such as rain and snow. The sun, rain, and cold can easily wear the surface of pavers, and a good sealing job with the right sealing product, applied by a professional technician of sealing, will create a layer of protection over the paving stones making them water-repellent and weatherproof. This will protect the concrete surface from corrosion. A good sealer penetrates the paver surface and stays there for many years, even when the look of the sealer goes away the color and texture of the pavers will stay new.

Do you need to pressure wash pavers before sealing them?

Gappsi recommends pressure washing pavers before sealing the surface and the surface should be free of debris. It is very important the surface is cleaned first.  Once the sealant is on the pavers any stains or materials that get trapped under the sealer will not be able to be cleaned after it’s sealed.

 

Pressure washing pavers is just as important as sealing them. Using the wrong pressure washing tools could also hurt the pavers. A pressure washer with the wrong nozzle could mark or wear the pavers. The best-recommended tool is a high-volume, low-pressure, hot water-pressure washer. The hot water cleans the pavers and prepares the surface for the best result sealing job.

Read more questions on our Cleaning and Sealing Paving Stones page

Gappsi completed a backyard renovation in Smithtown NY. We installed Nicolock Pavers around a Vinyl Pool. Gappsi reinstalled a new liner and new equipment for the swimming pool.  In addition, we designed and built new stairs across the l shape shallow area of the swimming pool. Charcoal Nicolock 12×8 bullnose was chosen for around the pool.  The patio was paved with Granite City Stone Ridge. Several raised patio areas were created near the backyard sliding doors to add dimensional depth to the backyard scape.

SCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI

VIEW OUR VIDEO OF A FREE-FORM VINYL POOL WITH SUNDECK

Share this page:

Natural Limestone Patio And Pool Long Island NY

Posted by gappsigroup on

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

 

Share this page:

Marble Patios And Pools On Long Island NY

Posted by gappsigroup on

Marble-Patios-And-Pools-On-Long-Island-NY2Make a statement with your backyard; marble patios and pools on Long Island NY by Gappsi.  We designed and built a travertine wood-burning fireplace as well as a gunite pool renovation with a new design of the patio and landscaping in West Islip NY. We incorporated a new wood-burning fireplace and veneered it with multisize silver travertine tumbled veneer and capt with G040 two-inch coping. The patio consists of G040 marble pavers selected from the Gappsi natural stone collection. This stone is a very beautiful marble with many details. A key feature and benefit of marble pavers are they are very cool in the heat, with a sandblasted texture and tumbled texture perfect for around a pool or water.

The pool was remodeled with new porcelain tiles in the water line and new coping was added. Gappsi also built a raised area for the diving section and added two columns each with a led Pentair Water Ball spilling into the pool. The landscape includes some tropical plants, flowery plants, and evergreens. Our team did a very beautiful job, the waterview on the South Bay of Long Island NY is amazing to enjoy with a warm fire while enjoying from the comforts of your home.

Marble Patios And Pools On Long Island NY

One of the most versatile construction materials for pools is Gunite.  It is a simple mixture of cement, sand, and water.  To apply the Gunite to your framework contractors have 2 options; use a spray gun or blow the material onto the rebar framework.  The rebar offers strength and structure to the pool.

Gunite is porous and should not be used by itself to construct a pool. There must be a water barrier between the porous gunite and the pool water. Plaster is then applied to not only ensure a smooth touch on the pool surface but also to create a water barrier between the pool water and the gunite.

Winterizing your pool properly will help to keep your pool’s gunite/plaster structure intact.

Marble-Patios-And-Pools-On-Long-Island-NY1Painting VS Re-Plastering

Delaminations, stains, cracks, and generally dullness and lifelessness are reasons for wanting to give new life to your pool. Painting pools have been an option even before pool plastering came around. Back in the day, all pools were painted; it was an annual pool opening tradition. When the plaster for pools began to be used, pool owners appreciated the long-lasting and durable surface and the smooth white finish.

Longevity Factor:
Re-plastering a pool, when properly mixed, applied, cured, and maintained – can last 15-20 years. Pool paint, depending on the type of paint used, as well as application and curing factors, 2-7 years of life can be expected from a pool paint job.

Durability Factor:
Paints used for pools, spas, and fountains, are specifically made for underwater use and are quite durable against poor water chemistry, temperature extremes, and even rough treatment from pool equipment. Plaster, however, with its usual 1/2 inch thickness, can handle more distress than the thin layer of pool paint.

Appearance Factor:
Both the new plaster and new paint are looking good! Pool paint is shiny and reflective, and new plaster has a deep luster, like an eggshell. Of course, you can add colors and additives to plaster to create custom tones. You can do the same with paint, and could even paint a mural. Plaster may look the best for longer, but at least initially, and for the first few years, the appearance of both is fairly equal.

Travertine Veneer Wood Burning Fireplace

Marble-Patios-And-Pools-On-Long-Island-NY4Fireplaces are a natural gathering place and are often not just the focal point of a room, but often the focal point of the entire home or outside.  A fireplace provides a respite of warmth, conversation, and meditation from the outside world. Many agree that renovating a tired, worn out, and outdated fireplace has the same return on investment as updating a kitchen or bathroom, but with a much smaller price tag. Natural stone veneer panels are an excellent choice for such a renovation because they are cost-effective and incredibly easy to install.

Whether you’re envisioning a rustic, colonial, contemporary, modern, or Old World space, color and design add up to making your project look just right. Natural Stone Colors vary naturally, which is what makes it an authentic material to incorporate into projects.

Whether you’re renovating an old brick fireplace or building one anew, our world-class customer service team will walk you through the right process for you. During a fireplace renovation, you tend to encounter more obstacles than if you are building new. For example, is your existing fireplace built from brick? Is it flat drywall? There are different ways to handle each of these conditions. We welcome your questions, so please don’t hesitate to speak with us.

SCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI
VIEW OUR VIDEO OF THE MARBLE PATIOS AND POOLS ON LONG ISLAND NY

Our showroom display also includes the most beautiful as well as unique imported natural stones for patios, walkways, and driveways.

We provide our services in the following areas of Nassau and Suffolk County. Glen Cove, Hempstead, North Hempstead, Oyster Bay, Babylon, Huntington, Islip, and Smithtown. Brookhaven, Southampton, Riverhead, East Hampton, Southold, Old Brookville, Old Westbury. Mill Neck, Nissequogue, Lloyd Harbor, Muttontown, Coldspring Harbor, and East Norwich
Gappsi’s knowledgeable and experienced personnel can help you create the yard of your dreams!

Share this page:

Concrete Wall Vinyl Liner Pool In Centereach NY

Posted by gappsigroup on

Concrete Wall Vinyl Liner Pool In Centereach NY

Gappsi designed a 20 x 40 Concrete Wall Vinyl Liner Pool located in Centereach NY.  The concrete walls are naturally of cement, but the floor is dirt.  Added in a thin layer of vermiculite over it and a thin layer of foam separating the liner from the wall of cement.

Vinyl Lined Concrete Wall Pools are very strong and offer a wide amount of shapes.  Vinyl liners offer a wide selection of colors and patterns to choose from. After many years of use, vinyl liners can be replaced when they wear out or when you are ready for a new look.

So what is a Concrete Wall Vinyl Liner Pool?

The process for constructing a Concrete Wall Vinyl Liner pool is unique and requires a more sophisticated pool builder to do it right. Once the excavation of your swimming pool is completed, Gappsi assembles forms that make up the shape of your pool. The area inside these forms is lined with steel rebar and then filled with concrete. When the concrete hardens the forms are removed and what’s left is the strongest and most durable vinyl liner pool construction available today. The best part about every Gappsi Concrete Wall Vinyl Liner pool is that all the walls, steps, sun decks, and benches are made from concrete. All of the benefits of owning a Concrete Wall Vinyl Liner pool are seen throughout the entire pool structure.

Gappsi does not use the industry standard white plastic steps with any Concrete Wall Vinyl Liner pool we build, you receive the unique look of vinyl-covered steps, sun decks, and benches.

The patio surrounding the Concrete Vinyl Liner Pool consists of G044 Limestone selected from the Gappsi Stone Collection. A two-inch thick coping for the pool and a french pattern for the patio was used. To add to the outdoor of the home and to help enjoy those warm summer nights Gappsi built a sitting wall for the firepit area perfect for roasting marshmallows while catching fireflies!

Basketball Sports Game Courts

Gappsi also built a 60×40 basketball sports game courts in the backyard.  We are Long Island’s Basketball Sports Game Courts Installation Expert serving Nassau and Suffolk County NY. Our Sports Game Courts come in various base and surface materials including bluestone dust, synthetic turf, clay, snap-sports, and our own exclusive crushed marble dust. Gappsi can satisfy any application criteria or professional specifications for recreational activity a customer has.  This basketball sports game court offers an adjustable sports net in the center and this allows the court to be used for more than just basketball.  

Sports Game Courts Tiles – Polypropylene Floors

Polypropylene tiles are what Gappi uses to create the Sports Game Courts.  The home in Centereach used one stripe with white and two-tone tiles. The gray for the field and black for the border and the keys. We also striped two shuffleboards one on each side of the court.

Our Sports Game Court’s are an excellent multi-sport athletic surface, appropriate for a wide variety of backyard and recreational activities. Newly designed for excellent traction and low abrasion, Gappsi provides outstanding performance at an economical price and delivers years of durable, safe play.

We offer a wide variety of leading indoor and outdoor multi-purpose and basketball performance surfacing products. Our products earned the top ratings in all categories for ball bounce, force reduction, low abrasion, high traction, and slip resistance.  Gappsi Sports Game Courts surfaces are great for basketball, tennis, pickleball, badminton, volleyball, futsal, soccer, and roller hockey.

When you provide a safe place for your kids to play sports at home, you no longer have to worry about their safety.  Safety is important at the local park, either from strangers or the unforgiving concrete surfaces. Gappsi Sports Game Courts backyard basketball court removes all those concerns!  A sports court also provides a convenient spot for your kids to engage in regular, daily practice if they decide to play sports for their local basketball team or club.

Synthetic Grass Turf

In the surrounding area of the pool patio and the basketball court, Gappsi installed synthetic grass turf.  Synthetic grass manufacturers have been designing better artificial turf.  As modern technology has allowed plastic grass to be made more realistic. Fake grass might sound not as natural, but wait til you consider the benefits that synthetic grass turf.  It gives to the environment you might come to realize something different.  Artificial grass is better than natural grass.  Consider the maintenance of running lawn movers through your backyard and running water to keep it green.

Synthetic grass cost is based on the size of the job and also the degree of difficulty for the synthetic turf installation. The turf is used for putting greens, dog runs, or hills where the real grass would not grow. Synthetic grass turf putting greens and artificial lawns are becoming more popular because of the little maintenance they offer.  In areas such as the Southwest where the weather is very hot and water is scarce Synthetic grass lawns are very popular and more accepted. Many high-rise rooftops use fake grass turf and also small residential backyards have adopted this revolutionary product.

SCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI

VIEW OUR VIDEO OF THE CONCRETE WALL VINYL LINER POOL ON LONG ISLAND

Our showroom display also includes the most beautiful as well as unique imported natural stones for patios, walkways, and driveways.

We provide our services in the following areas of Nassau and Suffolk County. Glen Cove, Hempstead, North Hempstead, Oyster Bay, Babylon, Huntington, Islip, and Smithtown. Brookhaven, Southampton, Riverhead, East Hampton, Southold, Old Brookville, Old Westbury. Mill Neck, Nissequogue, Lloyd Harbor, Muttontown, Coldspring Harbor, and East Norwich
Gappsi’s knowledgeable and experienced personnel can help you create the yard of your dreams!

Share this page:

Travertine Patios And Pools On Long Island

Posted by gappsigroup on

Travertine Patios And Pools On Long Island

Travertine Patios And Pools On Long IslandGappsi designed and completed the landscaping and Travertine Patios And Pools On Long Island recently in a home located in Yaphank, NY.  Gappsi installed a freeform vinyl pool with a gunite spa spilling into the pool. Three structures were built including a gazebo, a pavilion, and a pergola; since the property is surrounded by woods populated by deer we decided to screen the gazebo for bugs also.

Backyard Gunite Spa with G035 Travertine Pavers

The home’s backyard was built on two levels so Gappsi utilized natural stone borders to retain the hearth and create a more natural look as well. The freeform vinyl pool is 18 x36, with the deepest part of the pool only 5 1/2 feet. There is a gradual slope on the bottom with the walls being straight down. The stairs that were installed are in the shallow area and we added 3 built-in stools in the pool to sit and relax poolside.

The spa that was added is a gunite spa finished with super blue diamond brights. This pavilion was built to add a shaded area while relaxing near the pool with a pergola for a lounge chair. The patio was paved with G035 travertine selected from the Gappsi stone collection and the veneer on the spa is also G035 travertine. The entire backyard has a very beautiful setting and layout.  The homeowners will enjoy the backyard for many many years to come along with all the family members.

Why Consider a Travertine Pool Deck?

One of the best reasons to consider these pavers is purely aesthetic. They provide a unique look that, when compared with other pavers, makes your patio or pool deck stand out amongst others in your neighborhood! An essential part of buying a pool is thinking about the best pool deck for your family. Travertine tile pool patios are increasingly popular because they are slip, heat, and mold resistant.  Travertine is a natural form of sedimentary limestone. It develops around natural spring mineral deposits, leading to distinctive swirls throughout the limestone. Due to the travertine tiles’ layered, mottled texture and beauty, the ancient Romans favored it as a building material.

Travertine-Patios-And-Pools-On-Long-Island3

Travertine pavers are ideal because they stay cool to the touch; Perfect for Barefoot-in!.

Simply by designing the yard with travertine pool pavers the customer increased the safety of their pool area by providing a stable, slip-resistant surface. The porous stones are naturally rough and even more so when they are wet making the surface slip-resistant.

Use Travertine Paving Stones in the following places:

  • pool decks
  • patios
  • decorative walls
  • stairs
  • fireplaces
  • driveway

Benefits of Travertine Patios And Pools On Long Island

Travertine is eco-friendly
All travertine stones are eco-friendly as they adopt an environment-friendly manufacturing process as opposed to marble. In addition, this stone is super low maintenance; they stay intact much longer, thus avoiding the need to replace them regularly.

Extremely durable
Due to Travertiens’s ability to withstand heat and extreme temperatures, travertine pool pavers are known to be extremely durable, thus making them ideal for all outdoor projects.  For example driveways, walkways, patios, and pools; enjoy your barbeques and parties.

Water Absorbency
Concrete pavers do absorb some water where tiles do not, and neither does flagstone. Since water is constantly present around a swimming pool, especially if it is heavily used by children choosing travertine pavers is smart because it absorbs more water than other paving materials.

Non-Fading
Better paving materials today are fade resistant, but in the face of the sun, over the years even pavers do lose some color. Travertine pool decks are natural stones whose color is permanent versus dyes that are long-lasting or fade-resistant.

No Efflorescence
What is that? Efflorescence is a powdery white deposit that’s commonly seen on concrete surfaces and requires cleaning to remove it.

Travertine-Patios-And-Pools-On-Long-Island2

While this isn’t part of our list above of reasons for suggesting travertine for patios and pools the fact is that it is hugely popular. This isn’t a fad or trend; it’s been in big demand for patios and pool decks for several years now, and instead of showing signs of losing favor as a trend does, the requests for travertine paving in the backyard continue to grow.

Are You Ready To Level Up Your Yard?

When looking to remodel your pool deck, having a selection of colors and sizes to choose from makes the process all the more enjoyable. At Gappsi you can select from an array of travertine deck pavers’ colors, sizes, designs, and patterns. No matter your taste, finding the right paver for your style is simple!

Work With a Contractor For Maintaining Your Travertine Pool Deck

Although travertine tiles are water-resistant, they may gradually appear stained. Further, if your travertine pool deck is close to loose soil, dirt can become trapped in the natural pores.

Fortunately, you can easily prevent this by sealing your deck every three to five years. Although you’re not required to seal your deck, you’ll be grateful that you did so a few years down the road.  Your pool contractor can replace damaged tiles or may recommend a cleaning and sealing of your pool’s patio.

If you clean your travertine tiles on a regular basis, you shouldn’t need much help from a contractor to repair or replace them.

SCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI

VIEW OUR VIDEO OF TRAVERTINE PATIOS AND POOLS ON LONG ISLAND

Share this page:

Kid Friendly Backyard Ideas

Posted by gappsigroup on

Kid Friendly Backyard Ideas

g038 marble pavers

Playing outside and spending quality time enjoying nature is an essential part of childhood so designing a kid friendly backyard is important. It is an experience that many of us from a previous generation enjoyed far more easily than those born today.

When designing an outdoor space safety is a clear priority, but so are look, feel, and function. A kid scape only works when it is attractive, functional, and enjoyable to be in, otherwise, neither kids nor adults will use it.

Take a look at this makeover in Syosset where Gappsi designed a Kid Friendly Backyard. This makeover included:

G038 Marble Pavers Backyard Patio Design

Gappsi installed G038 marble pavers for the entire backyard patio design.  Gappsi designers chose a walnut travertine veneer for the walls and the sitting walls. This system is great for retaining walls, sitting walls, and columns that will show a more natural stone character.  The sitting wall is also a retaining wall to hold the flower bed between the pool and the basketball court.

Synthetic Turf Floor

Gappsi installed next synthetic turf floor.  Synthetic turf is UV stabilized to protect against color fading; unlike natural turf that will have to deal with diseases, drought, and dormancy, artificial grass has the benefits of looking great 24/7 all year long. It can also be used to spruce up spaces where it isn’t feasible to grow a lawn.

Often synthetic turf is promoted as environmentally friendly because homeowners do not have water, to fertilize or mow their lawns anymore, reducing emissions by no longer being dependent on gas-powered machines.

Maintenance is often said to be nonexistent for synthetic turf, but if homeowners do want their artificial turf to last as long as possible, there is some maintenance needed.

Kid-Friendly-Backyard-Synthetic-Turf

High-Quality Trampolines Everyone Will Love!

We provide high-quality in-ground, above-ground trampolines, and playground equipment. Let us help you find the perfect trampoline for your family. We’ve been creating safe and fun backyard memories for decades.

When getting ready to put a trampoline inground there are many things to consider. First, do you have space? Make sure you leave yourself adequate space around the trampoline with an enclosure should the kids land outside of the jumping area. You should give yourself at least 18ft overhead clearance and 6ft clearance on each side of the trampoline.

What makes our Trampolines Great?

  • Heavy-Duty Frames – provide stability, support, and safety; they also last longer.
  • The Bounce in the Springs – the more springs and the longer the spring length, the better the bounce experience. Stainless steel, tapered springs provide the longest lasting and best bouncing springs for trampolines.
  • The Jump Bed – Also referred to as the jump mat, this part of the trampoline is one area you don’t want to skimp. Made of a high-grade polypropylene material that is smooth to the touch, this is what handles all the tension and safely catches you after each bounce. The stitching surrounding the bed is critical for strength and durability and that is why all our jump beds have a minimum of 8 rows of stitching.
  • Safety Frame Pad – This important safety piece should be at least 1” thick and be in a UV-treated vinyl covering that will have low wear and long life. The pad should secure tightly and cover the frame and springs.

Kid-Friendly-Backyard-InGround-TrampolineSports Game Courts

Make your backyard an all-weather sports zone and a gathering place for family and friends with a multi Sports Game Court from Gappsi. Enjoy a setting where basketball, racquet sports, volleyball, shuffleboard, and more are all in play, and do so in a safe environment that provides you the peace of mind of knowing where your children are.

Gappsi backyard sports game courts feature the best of what our high-performance surfaces have to offer. This sports game court was designed on regulation asphalt.  Experience the game you love on a floor built with stress reduction in mind. Play with the same hoops system the pros use and set your children on a course of enjoying the games they love in the comfort and safety of their own backyard.

Kid Friendly Backyard Sports Game Courts

Swimming Pool Upgrade Refresh Your Pool This Summer

Liner looking sun-bleached? Tired of looking at the same pattern? You don’t need a new shape, style, or size to create a new poolscape. A stunning makeover is as simple as replacing your interior pool finish. It’s simple, affordable, and usually just takes one day to complete. Choose from our many beautiful patterns and enjoy your remodeled, revitalized new pool!

Kid-Friendly-Backyard-Pool-Liner-G038-Pavers

Even though you and your kids might have your separate backyard retreats, that does not mean you cannot ever come together as a family outdoors! It is important to include features in your backyard that everyone can enjoy, whether alone or as a group.

Don’t forget to add adult amenities like fire pits which can easily become family-friendly with supervision. Host a kid-friendly cook-out with summer staples like hot dogs and s’mores cooking inside our Wood Fire Stoves.

SCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI

VIEW OUR VIDEO OF A KID FRIENDLY BACKYARD

Any services that are not covered under our Home Improvement License are performed by a licensed and insured Subcontractor.

Our showroom display also includes the most beautiful and unique imported natural stones for patios, walkways, and driveways.

We provide these services in the following areas of Nassau and Suffolk County. (Glen Cove, Hempstead, North Hempstead, Oyster Bay, Babylon, Huntington, Islip, Smithtown, Brookhaven, Southampton, Riverhead, East Hampton, Southold, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Mill Neck, Nissequogue, Lloyd Harbor, Muttontown, Coldspring Harbor, and East Norwich)
Gappsi’s knowledgeable and experienced personnel can help you create the yard of your dreams!

Share this page:

Travertine Backyard Patios and Pools

Posted by gappsigroup on

Travertine Backyard Patios and Pools

travertine backyard patio and pool at night

Travertine backyard patios and pools designs simply are one of the best choices for your poolscape designs. When considering your patio choice you will want to consider travertine pavers because they are the perfect option for your patio below are some of the many benefits.

Nothing will enhance the beauty of your outdoor entrances, patios, pool decks, and/or walkways like our elegant travertine stone pavers.

The Benefits of Travertine Pavers

One of the best reasons to consider these pavers is purely aesthetic. They offer a unique look to your home when compared with other pavers, making your patio or pool deck stand out amongst others in your neighborhood!

Travertine is also a great choice for use around pools because they don’t become slippery when wet. This offers a higher level of safety when you and your family are enjoying your pool.

Designing your backyard patio and pool area it is important to consider how affordable and durable the material will be.  Travertine proves to be a great investment because of the high-quality product and longevity of the stone. Their durability derives from their resistance to freezing, thawing, and fading in weather, and if you need to replace a single paver, the process is very easy.

Additionally, travertine pavers are easy to clean, ensuring that they will continue to look great for years to come.

If you are looking for the perfect pavers for your next project, travertine pavers could be your best choice. Take some time to look at all of the options available here at the Gappsi Gallery to see which selections match your space.

Travertine Backyard Patios and Pools

Travertine French Pattern Backyard Design In Kings Park NY

This backyard design located in Kings Park, NY includes Travertine French Pattern Pavers with a pool coping.  The project was designed by Giuseppe Abbrancati and built by his team at Gappsi. The back yard was completely remodeled and included in the installation of a gunite swimming pool finished with super blue Diamond Brite plaster with porcelain tiles on the top of the water line as well as markers on steps, spa, and sundeck.

The pool is equipped with a gunite spa, a sundeck where lounge chairs can be placed in 12 inches of water, a bubbler jet on the sundeck, and LED lights. The backyard design included a 16×16 pavilion built over an outdoor kitchen with all twin eagle appliances. A retaining wall was built with poured concrete to retain the backyard but also used for a sheer descent water feature. The patio, pool coping and wall veneers consist of walnut travertine imported from Turkey, using a beige brown shade stone color very suitable for pool areas. Landscape lighting was also installed to create a peaceful ambiance at night time making this backyard layout a retreat for the happy homeowners. Gappsi designed, supplied, and installed the entire project.

SCHEDULE A MEETING TODAY WITH GAPPSI

Gappsi Group offers the following residential and commercial services to the public:

Home Remodeling, Swimming Pools, Paver Cleaning and Sealing, Sports Game Courts, Epoxy Flooring, Landscape, and Masonry Design, and Construction.

Our latest division is the manufacturing of clay brick ovens, made from the best materials on earth. We distribute all these ovens throughout North America.  In addition, we display them in the showroom and have weekly demonstrations on how to use the ovens.

VIEW OUR VIDEO OF A TRAVERTINE BACKYARD PATIOS AND POOLS

Our showroom display also includes the most beautiful and unique imported natural stones for patios, walkways, and driveways.

We provide these services in the following areas of Nassau and Suffolk County. (Glen Cove, Hempstead, North Hempstead, Oyster Bay, Babylon, Huntington, Islip. Smithtown, Brookhaven, Southampton, Riverhead, East Hampton, Southold, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Mill Neck. Nissequogue, Lloyd Harbor, Muttontown, Coldspring Harbor, and East Norwich).  Gappsi’s knowledgeable and experienced personnel can help you create the yard of your dreams!

Share this page: