AquatiCare is Landmark Aquatic’s newly enhanced preventative-maintenance program, built to keep your water safe, your systems reliable, and your downtime low. Customized service plans align with each facility’s unique needs, covering equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and precise chemical care. Water is your business; staying on top of it is ours. We get ahead of issues before they surface, so your water is ready for anyone, anytime.

With AquatiCare facilities get technicians that are factory trained, Certified Pool Operators (CPOs) that also receive continuous, certified training so technicians stay current on industry standards, safety protocols, and the latest technological advancements. AquatiCare also offers in-depth maintenance of chemical, deck and mechanical items to help extends equipment life, optimize water consumption, and create a more sustainable operation. AquatiCare packages are fully customizable, with maintenance visits scheduled to align with a facility’s specific needs.

Landmark Aquatic is a premier provider of commercial aquatic facility design, construction, and maintenance, with more than six decades of industry leadership. Serving clients nationwide, Landmark delivers construction-led solutions supported by its CPO-certified AquatiCare maintenance team, ensuring excellence “for the life of your pool.” Committed to the full lifecycle of every facility, Landmark prioritizes long-term partnerships while adapting to client needs through exceptional service, operational excellence, and forward-thinking solutions.

For more about Landmark Aquatic visit www.landmarkaquatic.com

More information contact:

info@landmarkaquatic.com

1-888-871-2887

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RB Retail & Service Solutions now offers DocuSign as an integrated feature in their pool and spa industry business software. This electronic signature and agreement platform lets you send, sign, and manage documents securely online, instead of using paper contracts. Integrated directly within the RB system so staff can work with contracts and request signatures without exiting the POS software. Allows users to send contracts (e.g., sales agreements, financing forms, service waivers), track status, send reminders and easily pull signed contracts attached directly to the customer. Provides security and compliance with encrypted documents and detailed audit trail.

RB Retail & Service Solutions provides point of sale and business management solutions for pool & spa and chimney & hearth retailers. The software was specifically designed with those industries in mind, taking into consideration the features that would be of most importance to those business owners. RB is a highly experienced and trusted authority in the industry and its software boosts profitability, competitiveness, work/life balance of owners and employees, efficiency, and the ability to make more informed, data-driven decisions about their business.

RB Retail & Service Solutions software was created over 20 years ago by a pool and spa professional to handle the diversity and complexity of the pool and spa retail, service, and construction business. Our software is continually enhanced, and further developed with suggestions and input from hundreds of pool and spa dealers throughout the United States and Canada. Call to schedule a demo.

To learn more or to schedule an online demo, call or visit their website:

(866) 933-9099

Monroeville, PA

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BSquared Pools offers a new freestanding sunledge that can be added to any outdoor living space! The new Free Standing Sunledge is a patent-pending product that gives consumers the benefits of a sunledge without the need for having a pool! Manufactured from the same pool-strength polypropylene panels used in its pool kits, this ‘plug-n-play’ solution can be used independent-of or in-combination-with a pool. Interior measures 72” x 82” with 235 gallons of water. Gentle overflow waterfall. Accommodates various pool loungers. Made in USA.

www.BSquaredPools.com

419-708-9631

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Indianapolis, IN — Family Leisure, a leading retailer in home recreation, outdoor living, and wellness products, today announced a landmark partnership with Jacuzzi Group, becoming the exclusive retailer of Sundance® Spas from Jacuzzi® in its markets. This strategic relationship brings two of the most recognized and respected names in the spa industry directly to Family Leisure showrooms, expanding premium options for customers nationwide.

For nearly 60 years, Family Leisure has built its reputation on offering high-quality products backed by expert service, competitive pricing, and unmatched customer support across its 10 national locations. With the addition of the Sundance® Spas from Jacuzzi®, the retailer strengthens its commitment to providing consumers with best-in-class wellness and relaxation solutions.

“Sundance Spas and Jacuzzi stand for innovation, longevity, and exceptional craftsmanship,” said Noah Williams, Chief Operating Officer of Family Leisure. “Bringing their full product lines into our stores reinforces our dedication to giving customers the highest-quality spa experience available today.”

A Powerful Alignment of Trusted Brands

Jacuzzi is globally recognized for their engineering excellence, advanced hydrotherapy technology, and long-standing leadership in the hot tub and wellness industry. Their Sundance Spa line is best known for its advanced hydrotherapy technology that delivers a highly therapeutic, luxurious, and reliable spa experience. This exclusive partnership enables Family Leisure to provide:

• Expanded premium spa offerings, with selections suited for every lifestyle and budget
• Deep product expertise and personalized in-store guidance backed by manufacturer-trained teams
• Greater availability and faster delivery of high-demand Jacuzzi and Sundance models
• Trusted, nationally known brands that give customers confidence in their investment

“Family Leisure has been a respected retailer in the home recreation space for decades,” said Scott Bollitier, Strategic Account Manager at Jacuzzi Group. “We’re excited to partner with a company that shares our passion for quality, customer satisfaction, and elevating the wellness experience in homes across America.”

Why This Partnership Matters

With this exclusive partnership now in place, Family Leisure is ready to set a new standard in home wellness and outdoor living. Customers can look forward to exploring a wider selection of premium spas, enjoying expert guidance from factory-trained professionals, and experiencing faster delivery and exceptional service.

Whether you’re building your dream backyard retreat or upgrading your home spa, Family Leisure — now the exclusive home of Sundance® Spas from Jacuzzi® in its markets — is your trusted destination for quality, reliability, and luxury. Browse online today to discover the future of relaxation and wellness.

About Family Leisure

Family Leisure is a leading home recreation and outdoor living retailer specializing in hot tubs, pools, patio furniture, game room products, and wellness equipment. Family-owned and operated for nearly 60 years, the company is committed to delivering top-tier products, competitive pricing, and excellent customer service. Learn more at www.familyleisure.com.

About Jacuzzi Group

Jacuzzi Group is a global leader in premium hot tubs, swim spas, whirlpool baths, and wellness products. With a legacy of innovation spanning over 100 years, Sundance® Spas from Jacuzzi® brand are trusted worldwide for their engineering, hydrotherapy performance, and exceptional design. Learn more at https://www.jacuzzi.com/. 

Media Contact:
Noah Williams
Family Leisure, Chief Operating Officer
nwilliams@familyleisure.com
317-826-3036

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Blue Wave has issued a recall affecting multiple above-ground swimming pool models after federal safety officials identified a potential drowning hazard involving children.

The recall, announced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on December 18, covers approximately 13,400 Blue Wave brand above-ground pools that are 48 inches deep or taller and utilize an exterior compression strap as part of the pool’s frame system.

Reason for the Recall

The affected pools feature a compression strap positioned around the outside of the vertical support poles. While the strap is designed to provide structural stability, the CPSC determined that its placement may unintentionally create a foothold.

According to the agency, this foothold could allow children to climb into the pool, even when the ladder has been removed, creating a risk of unsupervised access and potential drowning.

No injuries or fatalities have been reported in connection with the recalled products at the time of the announcement.

Affected Models

The recall applies to the following Blue Wave above-ground pool models:

• Blue Wave 15-Ft Rd 48-In Active Frame Pool
• Blue Wave 18-Ft Rd 52-In Active Frame Pool
• Blue Wave 18-Ft Rd 52-In Dark Cocoa Wicker Frame Pool
• Blue Wave 24-Ft Rd 52-In Dark Cocoa Wicker Frame Pool
• Blue Wave Rustic Cedar 15-Ft Round 48-In Deep Frame Swimming Pool Package W/Cover
• Blue Wave Rustic Cedar 18-Ft Round 52-In Deep Frame Swimming Pool Package W/Cover
• Blue Wave 18-Ft Round 52-In Gray Rattan Swimming Pool Package W/Cover
• Blue Wave 18-Ft Round 52-In Espresso Wicker Swimming Pool Package W/Cover
• Blue Wave 15-Ft Round 48-In Navy Blue Frame Swimming Pool Package W/Cover
• Blue Wave 18-Ft Round 52-In Navy Blue Frame Swimming Pool Package W/Cover
• Blue Wave 15-Ft Round 48-In Aspen Swimming Pool Package W/Cover
• Blue Wave Mocha Wicker 18-Ft Round 52-In Deep Swimming Pool Package With Cover
• Blue Wave Mocha Wicker 24-Ft Round 52-In Deep Swimming Pool Package With Cover
• Blue Wave Laguna 15-Ft Round 48-In Deep Swimming Pool Package With Cover
• Blue Wave Laguna 18-Ft Round 52-In Deep Swimming Pool Package With Cover

All affected models share a common design feature: an exterior compression strap that encircles the pool’s vertical supports.

Sales Channels and Distribution

The recalled pools were sold nationwide from January 2021 through July 2025 through a mix of big-box retailers, sporting goods stores, and online marketplaces, including:

• The Home Depot
• Lowe’s
• Dunham’s Sports
• Amazon
• Walmart
• Wayfair

Retailers have been notified to halt sales of affected models and to direct customers to the manufacturer’s recall remedy.

What Dealers and Retailers Should Know

For dealers and retail partners, the recall highlights the importance of prompt inventory review and customer outreach. Any remaining unsold stock matching the recalled models should be removed from the sales floor and distribution channels immediately.

Retailers that sold affected units during the recall period may see an increase in customer inquiries regarding eligibility, repair kits, and interim safety measures. Clear communication at the point of contact will be critical, particularly around the distinction between structural components and ladders, which many consumers assume are the primary access risk.

Service professionals and retail staff should also be prepared to explain that the recall does not involve a full product replacement, but rather a manufacturer-provided modification designed to eliminate the foothold while maintaining frame integrity.

Manufacturer Remedy

Blue Wave is offering a free repair kit to affected pool owners. The kit replaces the exterior compression strap with a lower-profile system installed closer to ground level. Once the repair is completed, the original strap can be removed.

Until the repair is installed, the manufacturer and CPSC recommend that pool owners prevent unsupervised access to the pool area or drain the pool temporarily.

Dealers and service professionals should advise customers not to remove or cut the compression strap prior to installing the repair kit, as doing so could compromise the pool’s structural stability.

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 Bart Bettiga, Executive Director of the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA); Rick Church, Executive Director of the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA); Caryn Halifax, CEO & President of the International Masonry Institute (IMI); and Molly Trendell Nation, Executive Director of the Tile Contractors’ Association of America, (TCAA.)

(Healdsburg, CA) — The Tile Heritage Foundation (THF) is GROWING – embarking upon a critical new chapter in its mission to protect and preserve the history of the American tile industry. To help guide and support this growth, the current THF Board has invited these additional Tile Industry Leaders to help further this growth. Each of these industry leaders brings fresh energy, skills and additional support to the Tile Heritage Mission.

Bart Bettiga has served as Executive Director of the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) since 2002. He is also a member of the Board of Governors of Coverings, one of the largest tradeshows in North America. With over 30 years of experience in the tile and stone industry, he oversees the financial operations of NTCA, TileLetter, and the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation.

Rick Church, Executive Director of the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association, (CTDA), serves as President, Head Coach and Owner at CM Services, Inc. An experienced leader with a demonstrated history of success in the professional services industry, Rick is skilled in Strategic Planning Facilitation, Consensus Building, Marketing, and Market Development.

Caryn Halifax is CEO and President of the International Masonry Institute (IMI) and the head of the International Masonry Training and Education Foundation (IMTEF). Previously, Caryn served as Assistant General Counsel for IMI and for the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers.

Molly Trendell Nation has a shared position (being one of three Trendell sisters) as Executive Director of Tile Contractors’ Association of America (TCAA). She is an Assistant Professor of Environmental Education in the Department of Ecology and Environmental Studies at Florida Gulf Coast University.

These four directors bring additional representation, communication, and transparency to the important industry constituents making up their memberships and with the existing board members, real opportunities for further development of THF initiatives. Spearheading this development will be Karim Motawi, THF’s newly appointed Executive Director of Development, a familiar face for many in the industry. Backed by a strong and involved board, Karim will increase engagement and financial support while promoting an appreciation of ceramic surfaces and the people and companies that produce, sell, and install them. MEET the FULL Tile Heritage BOARD.

About the Tile Heritage Foundation

The Tile Heritage Foundation, founded in 1987 as a nonprofit charitable organization, is dedicated to promoting an awareness and appreciation of ceramic surfaces in the United States. The Foundation serves the need for a historical perspective regarding all ceramic surfacing materials, both past and present. In addition to aiding in the education of the public about the rich and varied history of tile, the organization is a major voice in the preservation of existing installations of rare and unusual ceramic surfaces while enhancing the visibility of contemporary tile work as well.

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Dec. 18, 2025 – LAS VEGAS – Coverings (coverings.com), the largest and most influential event in North America dedicated to ceramic tile and natural stone, has unveiled extensive educational programming for Coverings 2026, taking place March 30–April 2, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Coverings 2026 attendees will gain impactful insights to strengthen professional skills, deepen market intelligence and support leadership growth across the tile, stone, designand construction industries. Show registrants and prospective attendees can explore the full scope of educational sessions and partner programs for Coverings 2026, including dates, times and locations of all scheduled conference events, by visiting the official 2026 show schedule. 

Conference programming planned for Coverings 2026 will blend multiple modes of instruction—from technical presentations and partner-led sessions to dialogue-driven Q&As and live demos—creating a learning environment that equips showgoers with the strategic and practical knowledge required to navigate a rapidly shifting tile and stone industry.

One major highlight of the Coverings 2026 conference programming will be a marquee session featuring Gary Sinise, acclaimed actor, humanitarian and founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation. 

“Building Hope: A Conversation with Gary Sinise, NTCA, and NSI on Serving Veterans Through Skilled Craftsmanship,” sponsored by MAPEI Corporation at the headline level and PROFLEX® Products, Inc. at the supporting level, is scheduled for April 1, 8:30–9:15 a.m. PDT and will bring Sinise and leaders from the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and the Natural Stone Institute (NSI) together. 

The conversation will shed light on their collaborative work through the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. (Restoring Independence, Supporting Empowerment) program, which constructs custom-built, specially adapted mortgage-free smart homes for the United States’ most severely wounded heroes and recently marked a major milestone with the dedication of its 100th smart home.

Those in attendance of the session will learn how tile and stone professionals have contributed to the smart homes the Foundation builds, and garner practical guidance on ways to participate in future builds, from providing skilled labor and material donations to offering broader advocacy.

Registered professionals for Coverings 2026 will also have full access to nearly two dozen other targeted sessions organized within three core learning tracks: Installation & Fabrication, Materials & Trends and Workforce & Profits.

Sampling of Several Featured Sessions

“The Most Directional Color and Design Trends,” taking place March 30, 9:30–10:30 a.m., will be one of many opening-day sessions for showgoers to attend as they kick off an information-rich first day. Leatrice (Lee) Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, will present her latest color and design trend program, “Sense-Abilities,” which examines the lifestyle cues and emotional triggers shaping consumer design choices. Eiseman will highlight the most directional color and design influences expected to guide product development and project decision-making in the year ahead, drawing on themes that span both nostalgic references and forward-looking inspiration.

Another must-attend education session slated for the first day of Coverings, March 30, is “Get Inspired and Turbocharge Your Business,” taking place from 8–9 a.m. The program will spotlight standout selections from the Tile Heritage Foundation’s (THF) archive of more than 44,000 digital images, demonstrating how historical context can enrich storytelling, reinforce project authenticity, and inspire new concepts that resonate within today’s design landscape. Attendees will gain insight into how THF’s free resources can support and shape strategic business growth and establish long-term industry presence by connecting contemporary tile work with the foundation’s archival legacy. 

A dedicated Architecture & Design (A&D) Day, March 31, will expand Coverings 2026’s educational offerings with six American Institute of Architects (AIA)–accredited courses. These sessions are designed to equip architects and designers with practical knowledge and specification tools that strengthen project outcomes across residential and commercial work. The full lineup will be presented by the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA), National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and Natural Stone Institute (NSI).

The A&D Day schedule will include CTDA’s “Why Tile” from 8–9 a.m. and “Health and Environmental Benefits of Ceramic Tile” from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. NSI will present “The Art of Specifying Natural Stone” from 8–9 a.m. and “Natural Stone and Green Design” from 9:30–10:30 a.m. NTCA will round out the program with “Introduction to Tile Industry Standards, Methods and Best Practices” from 9:30–10:30 a.m., followed by “Specifying & Installing Gauged Porcelain Tile Panels/Slabs” from 12:30–1:30 p.m.

Day 2 at Coverings 2026 will also highlight “Inspire, Lead, Grow: Opportunities for Emerging Professionals in Tile and Stone,” scheduled for 12:30–1:30 p.m. This interactive program is designed for emerging professionals and future leaders who want to define meaningful career paths, strengthen critical skill sets, attract and mentor new talent, and gain a deeper understanding of how leadership at all levels drives innovation and progress.

Those attending the Day 3 panel discussion, “Inside the Industry: Leaders on Tile Today,” 9:30–10:30 a.m., will glean perspective from leaders across all tile and stone sectors as they examine current market dynamics, supply chain considerations, evolving customer expectations and emerging business opportunities. The conversation will offer practical insight into how these industry forces are shaping both residential and commercial applications and will present strategies to support long-term success.

Partner education will further enrich the Coverings 2026 learning experience across Days 2 and 3, starting with a special edition of Facades+, presented in partnership with The Architect’s Newspaper, March 31. “Facades+ Las Vegas” will feature a half-day program of design case studies and educational sessions led by leading architects, engineers and contractors (AEC), focusing on the latest advancements in façade technology, materials and best practices. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn three Health, Safety and Welfare (HSW) credits from AIA, learn directly from AEC experts and explore a range of materials with full access to the Coverings show floor.

Additional partner-led education will follow during Day 3 with the University of Ceramic Tile and Stone’s (UofCTS) “How to Be a Professional Architectural Sales Rep to Develop ‘Bullet Proof’ Specifications and Get the Order.” This four-hour workshop will focus on how to write a proper specification, how to protect it, and ultimately how to secure the order. The first 20 people to register will also receive a complimentary copy of the comprehensive guide workbook. Separate registration is required for both events and attendees can learn more and register at Coverings.com/education-partners.

Access the Coverings website to explore the full range of educational opportunities for Coverings 2026 and to take advantage of early-bird registration benefits, including cost-free registration through February 1, 2026. 

A standard advance registration fee of $49 will apply from February 2–March 29. Onsite registration will be offered March 30–April 2 for $49 online or $99 in person. Complete registration details, including policies and pricing, are available at Coverings.com/registration-information

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How a third-generation pool professional embodies the relationship-driven future Pentair is building.

Since the very beginning, the pool industry has always thrived on craftsmanship and connection. From backyard memories to multi-generation family businesses, success in this industry runs deeper than equipment – any pool professional can tell you that it’s all built on trust. Pentair Pool’s newly expanded sales organization reflects that same belief: that supporting partners isn’t just about products. It’s about people, structure, and long-term relationships.

A Stronger Structure for Stronger Partnerships

As part of Pentair Pool’s continued commitment to partner growth, the sales organization has been expanded and clarified to offer a more streamlined, accountable experience for its distributor and dealer partners.

At the national level, Pentair has introduced additional roles, including a team of dedicated National Account Managers for distributors, supported by a team of Zone Account Managers, each laser-focused on strategy and execution across key regions.

To drive that support even closer to the backyard, Pentair has strengthened its regional framework as well. Each of the seven regions is led by a seasoned Regional Sales Manager, backed by more than 20 sales and service professionals per region – over 150 team members nationwide. This team is dedicated to elevating dealer experience and identifying new opportunities across local markets.

At the core of this strategy, Pentair Pool is really building a sales structure that very much mirrors how the industry itself works – through personal connections, regional insight, and the shared goal of helping families create lasting memories in their backyards.

No one understands that better than Scott Bushey, Pentair Pool’s National Account Manager for Inside Sales.

A Legacy Three Generations in the Making

Scott didn’t just grow up around pools… He grew up inside the industry. His grandfather, formerly from a construction background, entered the business in the late 1950s after deciding to build a pool in his Massachusetts backyard. He didn’t know how, but a manufacturer in California did. They flew out, taught him the craft, and built a lifelong relationship that would define a family legacy.

“That’s the thing about our industry,” Scott said. “It’s not a transactional-type relationship. It’s not just selling a pump or filter. We’re helping build memories. And those relationships – those moments of someone showing up for you – are why so many of us never leave.”

From those first backyard lessons, the Busheys became a pool family. His grandfather passed the torch to Scott’s father, who would spend decades in the field. When Scott was considering his next step in 1999, it was his father who convinced him to make the leap and enter the industry. This, however, came with a word of warning.

“Scotty… You know how this industry is. Once you’re in, you can’t get out.” Scott laughed, explaining that it felt like an Al Pacino movie. But it was more of a welcome than a warning, and now, the family boasts three generations of proud pool guys.

“The industry has been good to our family,” Scott said. “It becomes your community. Your friends. In a lot of ways, it becomes your extended family. So many people in this industry have known each other for ages, it’s like a big reunion when we all get together.”

Why Relationships Still Matter More Than Ever

In his 25+ years in the industry, Scott has seen change, but he’s also seen what hasn’t changed.

Competition has sharpened, consolidation has grown, catalogs have ballooned from a handful of pages to hundreds. But beneath all that? The industry still revolves around trust.

Scott has seen the impact firsthand – helping dealers sell their business when health concerns overwhelmed them, attending customers’ weddings, and offering guidance on everything from equipment to succession planning.

“A lot of times, customers don’t just buy a product because of all the features and benefits,” he said. “That’s important, sure, but they buy because of the relationship. They trust you. Because they know you’ll help them solve problems, whether it’s troubleshooting equipment or something bigger. The pool industry is all about the people. Talk to any person in pool sales; they’ve all got a story about attending somebody’s wedding. About helping somebody with their business.”

For him, that’s the heart of the industry. And it’s one reason he’s excited about Pentair’s strengthened sales organization.

“When you have a structure designed to touch more customers, more often, it means more relationships,” he said. “It means we can support dealers in a deeper way and better support the industry.”

What Makes Pentair Pool Special

When asked directly, Scott doesn’t hesitate.

“It’s the people,” he said. “The culture. And our commitment to the homeowner and the dealer. Those things are crucial. Whether you’re talking about creating the best product when it comes to quality, innovation, making sure that the dealer and the homeowner is taken care of… It all goes back to people who make Pentair Pool stand out.”

He also believes the next five to ten years will show just how far that commitment goes.

“We are the industry leader. And you’re going to see a huge difference in how we show up, how we support customers, how we shape the dealer experience, and how we help families make memories. It’s always been about relationships, and I believe we’re taking that concept one step further.”

The Industry Is Growing. Pentair Is Growing With It.

If there’s one theme that defines both Pentair’s new sales organization and Scott Bushey’s three-generation story, it’s that foundations matter.

The foundation of a backyard pool becomes part of a family’s story. The foundation laid by manufacturers and mentors, as demonstrated by Scott’s grandfather, can become a career. And the foundation of strong support teams? That becomes successful dealer partnerships.

Pentair’s expanded sales structure is designed to honor that philosophy, bringing strategy, connection, and hands-on expertise to every level of the field.

And with leaders like Scott championing the human side of the work, the future looks like what the industry has always done best: creating spaces for families to gather, dealers to grow, and relationships to endure.

The post Built on Relationships: Pentair Pool’s New Sales Structure and the People Who Make It Work appeared first on PoolMagazine.com - Get The Latest Pool News.

Easton, MA — December 11, 2025 — Easton Select Group, a national leader in swimming pool services and backyard leisure solutions, today announced the acquisition of Harrison Pool & Spa LLC, a trusted full-service pool care provider serving homeowners in the suburban MetroWest region of Boston, Mass.

Founded more than ten years ago by Camden Harrison, Harrison Pool & Spa has earned a reputation for craftsmanship, reliability, and a deeply personal approach to customer care. The Mass.-based company serves clients in the largely affluent and growing suburban communities in the Boston metropolitan area.

Harrison Pool & Spa’s service offerings—spanning seasonal maintenance, equipment expertise, repairs, openings, closings, and customer education—complement Easton Select Group’s expanding portfolio of premium pool services throughout New England and beyond. The acquisition further strengthens Easton Select Group’s growing presence in Greater Boston and enhances its ability to utilize economies of scale to deliver expert, stress-free pool ownership experiences across the region.

All service relationships, technicians, and customer support teams are remaining in place, backed by the scale and resources of Easton Select Group.

“Harrison Pool & Spa has built a strong reputation for professionalism, communication, and treating every pool as if it were their own. The company embodies exactly what Easton Select stands for: exceptional service, deep expertise, and genuine care for every customer,” said Tim Dooling, CEO of Easton Select Group. “We are thrilled to welcome Camden and his team. Together, we’ll bring even greater resources, technology, and support to homeowners across MetroWest.”

“For more than a decade, my goal has been simple: deliver the highest quality service with a personal touch and empower families to feel confident caring for their pools,” said Camden Harrison, President of Harrison Pool & Spa. “Joining Easton Select Group allows us to stay true to that mission while gaining the support and scale needed to keep raising the bar for our customers. I couldn’t be more excited about what this partnership means for our team and the communities we serve.”

About Easton Select Group

Easton Select Group is a national leader in premium swimming pool services, construction, and backyard leisure solutions. Through its family of brands, the company delivers expert service, innovative plunge pools, and stress-free pool ownership experiences to homeowners across the United States. Pool Ownership Made Easy. TEC-Driven: Technology, Execution, Convenience. Learn more at EastonSelect.com.

Media Contact:
Rick Lacroix
LCX Strategies
rick@lcxstrategies.com

The post Easton Select Group Adds Harrison Pool & Spa, Expanding Service Across MetroWest Boston appeared first on PoolMagazine.com - Get The Latest Pool News.

If reinforced PVC membranes are such a technically sound and long-lasting waterproofing solution, the obvious question is:
Why aren’t they everywhere — especially in North America, the largest pool market in the world?

The answer lies in how American pools have traditionally been designed and built, and how that tradition has slowed the adoption of more engineered, reliable solutions — even when the performance benefits are clear.

A Legacy of Shape Over Function

One of the defining features of the North American residential pool market — especially since the 1950s — has been its love for freeform pool shapes. Curved, kidney-shaped, lagoon-style, and organically sculpted designs have dominated backyards across the U.S. for decades.

These shapes lend themselves well to gunite construction, which allows complete freedom in form and finish. But they pose a unique challenge for reinforced PVC membranes, which are supplied in rolls, custom-fitted on site by heat-welding and engineered for durability — but not extensive stretch.

Unlike flexible vinyl liners that can be vacuum-formed into irregular curves, reinforced PVC membranes are dimensionally stable and have minimal elasticity, one of the very features that makes them last so long. But that strength and rigidity also means they are best suited to smooth rectilinear shapes or pools with consistent radiuses and defined transitions.

For decades, this technical limitation restricted the adoption of reinforced membranes in a market dominated by complex, curvy pool forms — particularly in suburban residential builds.

Innovation Slow to Enter the U.S. Market

The North American pool industry has long been rooted in tried-and-true construction models that haven’t changed significantly since the 1940s. In fact, many pools built today still follow the same basic layout and methodology as the first post-war gunite pools:
Concrete shell, plumbing, plaster or tile finish — and little focus on true waterproofing as a separate function.

Meanwhile, European and other international markets, where space constraints and design culture favor cleaner, rectilinear architecture, have embraced reinforced membranes for decades. These regions have led in implementing engineered materials that decouple waterproofing from the structural shell, treating it as a specialized discipline rather than a side effect of the surface finish.

As a result, the U.S. market has largely lagged behind the evolution of reliable, low-maintenance, physics-based waterproofing methods — particularly in the residential sector.

A Building Culture Reluctant to Change — Until Now

Much like other mature industries, the North American pool market has historically been resistant to change, particularly when existing methods are familiar, profitable, and understood by local contractors. However, the tide is turning — thanks to shifting consumer expectations and a new generation of builders and homeowners.

Younger, more informed clients are beginning to ask different questions:

• “What actually makes this pool waterproof?”
• “Why do I need to replaster after a few years?”
• “What will last 20+ years without constant repairs?”

At the same time, builders are becoming more open to physics-first solutions — systems that are engineered to solve specific problems, not just following decades of precedent. That includes better understanding of water pressure, vapor migration, freeze-thaw cycles, and the chemical realities of long-term pool operation. Reinforced PVC membranes provide a waterproofing pool finish with unique benefits not provided by marbelite, stone-colored quartz finishes or thermoplastic coating. The reinforced PVC completely seals the structure of the pool and keeps it watertight, making it ideal for renovating existing pools and building new pools.

Gary Hohne, owner of Brighton Pools was born into the pool and spa industry. His father became a builder of vinyl liner pools in 1954, following the introduction of package pools construction in the industry. Hohne has been in the pool building business his entire life. “This is the only job and industry I’ve even been in,” he chuckles. Originally, his father owned Hohne Pools and more recently Hohne Jr. started a franchise of pool builders called Brighton Pools by Hohne which now has franchises in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, North Carolina, Florida and Tennessee! “Having a family swimming pool business that started 7 decades ago, I have watched the US market for swimming pools evolve over the years and I’m thrilled to have added reinforced PVC membranes to our residential pool construction options.”

Originally Hohne got started with reinforced PVC membrane with commercial pool renovations. “The first reinforced PVC membrane pool we renovated was Constitution Park in Cumberland, Maryland. “The pool at Constitution Park was built in the 1930’s and we completely renovated this 550,000-gallon pool with reinforced PVC membrane,” explains Hohne. “Back then we only used reinforced PVC membrane in commercial applications but in the last 5 years decided to train crews to install this membrane so we can offer to waterproof both new and existing swimming pools with a finish that will last 20 years or more; there is definitely a market of consumers who don’t want to have to repaint, replaster or change their pool liner out in 10 years to less—for them, this product is the ideal solution,” says Hohne.

Brighton Pools sees that reinforced PVC membrane is a waterproofing pool finish that works for both new pool constructions as well as renovation. “Consumers are savvy and many of them would prefer not to have to replace their vinyl pool liner every 10 years or need to replaster or re-paint their pool,” says Hohne. “These consumers are willing to pay more for a reinforced PVC membrane that will last more than 20 + years and we realized this and decided that we wanted to start offering reinforced PVC for residential pools and it has been highly successful.” One of the other reasons that Hohne’s company decided to add reinforced PVC to his offering is that it is the ideal solution for renovating all types of pools. Not only for repair and renovation but also as a complete waterproofing solution. “Whether we get a call to renovate a deteriorated gunite pool, or a plaster finish pool or a traditional vinyl liner, we offer reinforced PVC membrane because we know the reinforced PVC membrane will provide a complete waterproofing solution,” says Hohne. “We also know that these pool owners are likely looking for a long-term solution and are willing to pay for a reinforced membrane so they don’t need to deal with cracked or crumbling pool walls, peeling paint, falling tiles etc.” In fact, Hohne says that every quote they provide always includes a line for reinforced PVC membrane as an option because so many people are now opting for this more permanent solution. Hohne is continuing to expand franchise operations throughout the country and he knows that reinforced PVC membranes are an important part of the company’s growth. “As more and more people are trained to install reinforced PVC membranes, the more we will see reinforced PVC membranes catching up to their level of popularity in Europe.”

Design Trends Are Catching Up to the Material

Importantly, pool design itself is changing. Modern residential pools in North America —particularly in architecturally progressive markets like Miami, Austin, and Los Angeles — are starting to follow European-influenced trends: minimalism, linear geometry, clean edges, and symmetry.

These modern forms are ideally suited for reinforced PVC membranes, which are easier to fabricate and install in rectilinear or predictable geometries. As more homeowners seek out elegant, modern pools with lower maintenance, the case for reinforced PVC membranes becomes even more compelling.

For example, Plunge pools are a category of pool that has grown exponentially in recent years. And because of their shape and size, they lend themselves perfectly to reinforced PVC membrane. Bob Hobaica, owner of Plunge+ pools (part of Easton Select Group) honed-in on reinforced PVC as a superior, waterproofing interior for their plunge pool. “I had read several articles about reinforced PVC for use in pools over the past few years and talked to installers who actively use this finish in commercial pools,” explains Hobaica. “So when RENOLIT approached me, I was receptive to learning if this waterproofing pool interior solution would work for the Plunge+ pool.” Now Plunge+ pools are constructed using reinforced PVC membrane as its method of waterproofing and finishing the pool. “RENOLIT initially came out and trained our construction crew on how to install reinforced PVC,” explains Hobaica. “There is a bit of a learning curve to the installation. However, we were all super impressed with the durability and practicality of the product, not to mention that the company’s new TOUCH textures and colors are very attractive to consumers.”

In short: the market is finally catching up to the material.

Looking Forward: A Bright Future for Reinforced PVC in North America

The next decade will likely see a major shift in how North American pools are waterproofed and finished. The demand for durable, low-maintenance, and high-performance materials is rising. The industry’s younger generation is more open to physics-driven construction. And modern pool shapes are opening the door for solutions that weren’t viable in decades past.

Reinforced PVC membranes — with their 40+ years of proven performance across Europe, commercial installations, and high-end projects — are finally finding their place in the North American residential market.

As the focus moves from simply building pools to engineering them properly, reinforced membranes are not just an option — they’re part of the future.

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