Matt's Columns

With October 3rd (occurred in 1951) being the latest 100 degree day that we have ever experienced (since records have been kept in 1898), it is likely that the 100 degree days are over for this year. Our average first freeze is November 22nd, but our earliest freeze ever was on October 22nd (occurred in 1898), therefore, cold weather is just around the corner. What kind of winter do we have … [Read more...] about Top 3 Winter Pool Care Options for the Denton Area

Approximately 18 years ago, when my sons were much younger, something happened that made me realize that I am a dog lover. Our yellow Labrador retriever, Ellie, died suddenly after 10 years of providing our family with constant joy and me with a running partner. I remember it like it was yesterday—as it was very difficult on our family. Our youngest son, who was responsible for feeding Ellie, kept … [Read more...] about Swimming Pools & Dogs

Although there might be a few more hot days, for the most part the hottest weather is behind us. With the first average freeze date for the DFW area still over two months away (November 22nd), we are entering the time of year when weather for outdoor activities is optimal. Many who like spending time outdoors are aware that fall in the north Texas area is hard to beat for weather. The average … [Read more...] about Fall is a Great Time of Year to Enjoy Your Swimming Pool

Labor Day weekend is typically a big weekend for swimming pool parties, probably the second most popular pool use weekend after the July 4th. With the relatively mild weather that we have been experiencing as of late, pools and backyards will be a great place to be this Labor Day Weekend! Following is a checklist to assure that your Labor Day weekend pool party goes as planned: Be sure that your … [Read more...] about Plan Now for a Great Labor Day Party

Wow--What is with this Weather? In the last week (August 9-14), many of us received just as much rainfall as we had in the previous 5 months (March thru July). Yes, you read that correctly—many area rain gauges indicated 6”-8” or rain in the past week, and according to WFAA’s chief meteorologist, Pete Delkus, from March 1st thru July 31st, we received 7.05” of rain. The last time that it was this … [Read more...] about The Clean Up After the Heavy Rain

If you have been watching local news stations over the past week or two, you have likely seen stories about foundation problems occurring on area houses. Two remarks that I remember from the reports are: From the owner of a foundation repair company—“We are receiving at least twice as many calls as we typically receive this time of year.” From a homeowner—“My wife and I built this house 41 … [Read more...] about Water Your Yard – Prevent Pool Damage

These last few weeks have been very difficult weather wise. Although some in the Denton area received rain in mid-July, many of us did not get a drop of rain. That combined with the recent 100 degree temperatures, which we have been experiencing, is really drying out area soils. The north Texas area tends to have pockets of fairly expansive soil—soil that contracts when is gets dry and expands … [Read more...] about Water Your Yard to Prevent Damage to Your Pool