Pool School
Real pool advice from your neighbors in Maryville.
Twenty-plus years of answering pool questions at the counter, written down so you can find them whenever you need them. No jargon, no upsell — just what actually works for East Tennessee pools.
Glass Bead Filtration vs. Sand: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
Glass beads filter smaller particles, last longer, and use less water to backwash than sand. But is the upgrade worth it for your pool? Here's an honest comparison.
What Is Mustard Algae — And Why East Tennessee Pool Owners Need to Know About It
Mustard algae is stubborn, chlorine-resistant, and common in East Tennessee pools. Here's how to identify it, why our humid summers make it worse, and how to actually kill it.
How Often Should You Test Your Pool Water?
Testing your pool water isn't a guessing game. Here's exactly how often to test, what to test for, and why a free in-store water test beats a strip every time.
How Much Does an Above Ground Pool Cost in East Tennessee? (2026 Guide)
Average cost range, what affects price, and how Carvin pools compare to inground builds in Blount County.
Above Ground vs. Inground: Which Pool Is Right for Your Tennessee Backyard?
Cost, install time, maintenance, and terrain considerations for East TN homeowners deciding between the two.
How to Get Rid of Algae in Your Pool (Fast)
Identify the type, shock vs. algaecide approach, step-by-step treatment, and prevention next time.
Do I Need a Permit for a Pool in Maryville, TN? (Everything You Need to Know)
Maryville and Blount County rules, when permits are required, safety barrier law, and how we handle it.
The Complete Guide to Opening Your Pool in East Tennessee (2026)
When to open, the step-by-step process, water chemistry startup, and when to call us instead.
How to Close Your Pool for Winter in East Tennessee
Climate-aware closing checklist, chemical balancing, equipment winterization, and cover selection.
Free Water Testing at Our Maryville Store
Bring us a water sample and we'll run a full SpinTouch test with a custom chemical plan — no charge, no appointment.