Shasta Pools & Spas Official News

Shasta Pools Creates Resort-Style, On-Campus Housing for ASU

2008-09-22T09:00:00.006-07:00

Arizona State University pulled out all the stops by creating a virtual resort with the Vista del Sol student housing project with help from Shasta Pools. The Commercial Division of Shasta Pools and Spas has become the expert at helping area universities woo potential students with posh pools and welcoming water features.

"We are very pleased that Hardison Downey Kitchell and American Campus Communities had confidence in Shasta Pools to take part in this endeavor," said Bill Gullekson of Shasta Pools Commercial Division. Many universities throughout the Valley are following this trend and are updating their landscape to luxurious designs. One way universities are adding style to their campuses is by incorporating water features and pools. Shasta Pools Commercial Division has completed several of these "campus enrichment" projects and has established a reputation as the pool and water feature builder universities trust. "Shasta Pools Has built water parks for resorts as well as NCAA aquatic facilities such as Arizona State University's Mona Plummer Aquatic Center but bringing the resort-style pools to dorm life is an exciting new trend," noted John Neely, Senior Marketing Manager with Shasta Pools.

Living on campus used to mean a cramped dorm room and a communal shower. Amenities meant a window that opened! But those days may be a thing of the past. Students now want all the comforts they are used to for their first away from home experience.

Vista del Sol, at Arizona State University, opened its doors for the 2008 fall semester. The new development, located near the main campus in Tempe, AZ, seems more like a resort than student housing. To accomplish this feel Shasta Pools and Spas Commercial Division teamed up with Hardison Downey Kitchell and American Campus Communities to create a luxurious outdoor space, which includes a posh, resort style pool and enormous spa. The palm tree lined pool is a social hub for residents of Vista del Sol. Students seeking sun have their pick of chairs to lounge on and for those who want some relief from the heat can escape to the ramadas complete with fireplace, outdoor kitchen and plenty of plush seating.

Shasta Pools has been building projects for universities all over the Valley. Additional aquatic architecture for ASU, the University of Phoenix, Grand Canyon University and Estrella Community College have all been completed by Shasta Pools.

At Grand Canyon University Shasta constructed an enormous 5,500 square foot swimming pool along with two oversized therapeutic spas. The pool features a custom, decorative stone deck and pool side cabanas. This outdoor space adds to the prestigious campus feel and gives students a deluxe area for relaxation and enjoyment.

Shasta was also chosen to construct a Zen-like water feature at Estrella Mountain Community College. The extended runnel cuts a stream across the lawn, connecting several waterfalls, eventually flowing into a Koi fish pond. This water feature adds a tranquil element to an otherwise bustling campus. The sound of the trickling water and subtle dark interior of the stream evokes a sense of serenity and makes it a perfect place for students to study or just take a break from the long day.

About Shasta Pools
Shasta Pools has been the number one pool builder in Arizona since 1968, and has built more than 75,000 swimming pools throughout the state. Additionally, Shasta Pools Commercial Divisions are recognized across the state and country for their expertise. Shasta Pools receives numerous awards and accolades throughout the industry and is the only Phoenix pool builder that is a member of the prestigious Master Pools Guild. Over the years, the company has grown to include nine divisions. From pool building and pool product manufacturing to retail supply stores and customer service, each division strives to provide a level of service second to none.

Shasta Pools Expects Saving Big on Going Green

2008-07-10T09:22:00.004-07:00

Shasta Pools & Spas has deployed eCopy ShareScan® document imaging software along with OptiScan eVista^TM document management software to support its production and financial processes for building swimming pools. Shasta Pools & Spas, a family-owned business headquartered in Arizona, expects to save $500,000 a year through process improvements and reduced printing and paper costs by using eCopy^TM and OptiScan together.

A division of Shasta Industries, Inc., Shasta Pools & Spas is the top Pool Builder in Arizona and one of the largest pool builders in the country and with that, "Shasta Pools has built its reputation by taking care of our customers and making sound business decisions. The choice to move towards a paperless system was a win-win. It is great for the environment and reduces overhead which translates into value for our customers." says Steve Ast, Partner and Vice President of Sales & Marketing

With the implementation of OptiScan eVista^TM and eCopy^TM Shasta has eliminated the need to make numerous copies of documents for distribution throughout the company and to external contractors. Documents are available to all approved users within moments of imaging, allowing for fast, efficient document retrieval. This reduces the cost of physically moving paper between five sales offices and the corporate headquarters. This also eliminates the cost of printing, lost or inconsistent documents, filing, and storage.

The OptiScan eVista^TM document management software provides secure, web-based document access and search capabilities to Shasta employees and vendors, making contracts and other important documents easy-to-find and immediately available. Additionally, eVista^TM provides role-based document security to ensure documents are only accessible for those granted access.

"We were running our copier machines into the ground feeding a costly, paper-intensive workflow with our pool contracts," said Robert Dye, Controller at Shasta Pools. "The eCopy^TM / OptiScan solution enables us to scan contracts right away and make them available both internally and externally to our vendors in the field. This not only dramatically decreases excessive paper usage, it provides a fast and efficient way for employees to locate and view documents and provides an efficient service to our vendors"

eCopy^TM document imaging software is operating on 13 multifunction printers (MFPs) to provide Shasta employees with an intuitive, consistent user interface across multiple departments, including accounting, design, purchasing and construction. Shasta simply scans and converts the paper-based information to Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) files, associates the PDF files with an existing job in the system, and seamlessly imports them into the eVista^TM system using web services. Leveraging the PDF standard makes it easy to distribute documents and provide access to outside vendors.

"We scan our pool layouts and any design changes, making them available to everyone involved in building a pool. Extending our document workflows outside our company significantly reduces the chance of mistakes being made by an outside vendor because all vendors will be working with the latest document," said Robert Dye.

OptiScan, a provider of capture services, software and hardware solutions based in Phoenix, Arizona, used the eCopy^TM software development kit to create the eCopy Connector for eVista^TM, an interface allowing eCopy's document scanning capabilities to merge seamlessly with OptiScan’s eVista^TM document management solution.

"The eCopy / eVista solution enables Shasta employees to use their MFPs to make important documents readily available to the vendors and employees engaged in a project via web access," said Al Hawkins, President of OptiScan Inc. "Access to each document is assigned and controlled through role-based access ensuring that the right documents are accessible to the right people at the right time."

About eCopy^TM, Inc.
eCopy^TM, Inc. is an innovative provider of open and flexible solutions that transform paperwork into paper that works. With more than 75,000 units sold, eCopy is the market leader in MFP document imaging software. eCopy customers include GE, Time Warner Inc., Yahoo!, Nissan, Verizon Wireless, BP, Sprint, General Motors, Siemens, Cisco Systems, SAAB, and Sony Corporation. eCopy, Inc. is a global company headquartered in the United States, with subsidiaries in Japan and the UK, offices in Germany, France, Scandinavia, Canada, Singapore, New Zealand and Australia. For more information, visit http://www.ecopy.com or join the conversation at eCopy’s Document Imaging Blog at http://documentimaging.typepad.com eCopy is a trademark of eCopy, Inc.

About Shasta Pools & Spas
Shasta Pools & Spas was founded in 1966 and has been the number one pool builder in Arizona since 1968 with more than 75,000 swimming pools built throughout the state. Shasta is a recognized leader and innovator in the swimming pool industry and is the only Phoenix pool builder that is a member of the prestigious Master Pools Guild. Over the years, the company has grown to include nine divisions including swimming pool building, pool remodeling, pool product manufacturing and pool supply retail stores. For more information, visit Shasta Pools & Spas Website (www.shastapools.com) or Shasta Pools Official News Blog (http://news.shastapools.com).

"Staycation" The Buzz Word For A Smart New Trend

2008-07-08T09:06:00.002-07:00

Not only are people re-thinking their spending and driving habits here in the valley, but people are also cutting back on out of town vacations. With the rising cost of both airline and car travel, people are tuning in to the idea of a "staycation."

Staycation is one of the latest buzz words to emerge from the energy crunch catalyst. The whole idea is to take a vacation but without the high cost of travel, expensive airfare, and hotel accommodations. Simply put, people are staying home and enjoying friends and family indoors and out. They are spending hard earned money on items around the house that they can enjoy for years to come.

The Valley is recognizing that people are starting to jump on the staycation bandwagon. The Arizona hotel industry without fail is hit every summer with their slow season due to the triple digit temperatures and heat warnings that every Arizonian struggles to adjust to. With a little research, many local hotels offer enticing discount rates in order to generate business and it is a safe bet that much of this is from local residents. A long weekend at a local resort could be just the ticket to chill out next to a sparkling pool and sip tropical drinks.

Others are taking it a step further and bringing the tropical resort feel to their own home. It would be surprising to hear that any industry has yet to be affected by the lackluster economic conditions. The pool industry, for instance, has felt its fair share. Pools are considered to be a luxury item, but many families are choosing a new pool as something they can enjoy for years to come instead of a distant vacation memory. By choosing to stay close to home during the warm summer months, families are more easily convinced to invest in such an indulgence. John Neely, of Shasta Pools & Spas, says, "We are discovering that the idea of having a great pool in the backyard that can be enjoyed all year doesn't cost any more annually than a family vacation for a week or two." AAA Magazine quotes an average vacation expense for 2007 of $100 per person, per day (source: Wikianswers.com) so, on a 10-day trip a family of four will spend $4000. Using simple math that equates to just under $340 per month, more than enough to cover an average pool payment.

With depreciating value of the American dollar, going anywhere outside of the country seems nearly impossible for the average American trying to be reasonable and financially practical with their vacation plans. Some are simply taking the time off work, putting time and money into their homes, spending time with their families, or just enjoying what Arizona really has to offer.

Making a day trip to any of the valley lakes, enjoying the sunshine outside by the pool, or visiting any of the local attractions, is what staycationing is really about. Not a bad idea for any Arizonian looking to relax and take some time away from the office.

Shasta Pool Repair Offers Customer Solutions

2008-06-27T08:49:00.001-07:00

The Shasta Pools Repair Division is excited to announce the product addition of the Sta-Rite Variable Speed Pump. This new addition to the line of products that are offered to Shasta Pool customers is a huge step for the pool industry. It is a known fact that a homeowners pool pump is the second highest energy consumer in a household. Often, standard pool pumps can consume as much energy as all other household appliances combined. Installing a Sta-Rite Variable Speed pump can cut energy costs 30%-90%, which can lead to $621 to $1,356 in utility costs annually; this dollar amount could be even increase where energy rates are higher. The VS-3050 pump uses exclusive permanent magnet motors (like those used in hybrid cars) to provide a minimum savings of 30% over a standard pool pump.

While the savings are obviously beneficial there are other advantages to replacing your old pool pump with a VS-3050. This pump is the quietest running pool pump on the planet, thus the noise pollution is nearly eliminated. Also, the permanent magnet motor will generate far less vibration and heat than a traditional pool pump motor. This will result in less wear and tear on the pump's other components and lead to a longer life.

Shasta Pool Repair can replace older, less efficient pool pumps or any other equipment. Although the upfront cost is more than that of a standard pool pump, the VS-3050 will pay for itself with energy savings in no time.

About Shasta Pool Repair and Customer Care Division
With the experience that comes from building 75,000 of our own swimming pools, the Shasta Pools service and repair division has the expertise to provide solid repair services to any make or model of swimming pool. The Shasta Pool Repair division is dedicated to providing expert pool repair services. In over 28 years, Shasta Pool Repair has run over 700,000 service calls in Arizona, giving us years of experience to draw from.

About Shasta Industries, Inc.
Shasta Pools & Spas was founded in 1966 and has been the number one pool builder in Arizona since 1968. Shasta is a recognized leader and innovator in the swimming pool industry and is the only Phoenix pool builder that is a member of the prestigious Master Pools Guild. Over the years, the company has grown to include nine divisions including swimming pool building, pool remodeling, pool product manufacturing and pool supply retail stores and a pool repair division.

Shasta Pools Introduces Montelucia's Luxury Oasis

2008-06-20T11:02:00.002-07:00

Shasta Pools & Spas announces the early fall opening of the highly anticipated swimming pools, therapeutic spas and Spanish style water features at the Montelucia Resort & Spa in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Montelucia, nestled on the North side of Camelback Mountain, has been wholly designed and architected to feature the distinct ambiance and influence of Andalucia, in the South of Spain. With 293 hotel rooms and suites, the Resort/Spa side of Montelucia will include a restaurant, a wedding chapel and a 30,000 square foot health spa. For the resort area, there are a total of three outdoor pool areas, all of which will be heated year-round. The Shasta Pools Semi-Commercial Division has been working with Montelucia for approximately two years to design, engineer and construct the spectacular pools, spas and water features that will contribute to the Southern Spanish experience.

The first and smallest of the three outdoor pool areas is known as the Andalucian, reserved specifically for the guests of the presidential suite. This 343 square foot pool with an attached spa has custom Spanish style coping and intricate stone decking. The spa itself has its own shade structure to create a more private, intimate environment for guests of the suite.

The Oasis Pool area will be the hub of the resort for many of Montelucia's guests. The elaborate deck area features spaced-out deck patterns etched with brick designs and Spanish tile accents. The 1716 square foot pool has custom Spanish blend coping and is rectangular in shape. The detached spa is accented with a water feature wall to the North that ties in ambient water sounds and soothing water movement. There will be an abundance of lounging areas and eight cabanas for guests to enjoy.

The Main Pool area and largest of the three is the main focus of the Spanish influenced resort. The 3820 square foot pool is operated by a two slot gutter system, giving the illusion that the water is terminating into the deck. The massive 384 square foot therapeutic spa is the size of a typical small pool and can seat 20 people comfortably. It is raised above the pool's deck level and will be highlighted by a 20 foot long, tile faced water feature wall with five custom stone scuppers separating it from the main pool area. There is a separate raised area that contains a fire ring for guests to enjoy on cool evenings. The pool and spa will be surrounded by 12,000 square feet of decking that will leave plenty of room for the 10-15 cabanas, lounging areas and lush landscaping.

Shasta is constructing 14 water features throughout the resort side of the property, the most notable being La Alhambra Walk. For the 30,000 square foot spa, Shasta will complete a shotcrete whirlpool and a cold deluge for the men and a shotcrete whirlpool and cold deluge for women. The Spa Grande, a 524 square foot stainless steel pool was crane lifted onto the roof and will be available for use during spa treatments. Throughout the entire resort/spa area of the property there is an abundance of hand carved Cantera stone, Spanish brick and coping and hand carved stone scuppers, all reminiscent of Spain.

About Shasta Semi-Commercial
The Shasta Pools Semi-Commercial division builds spectacular and unique swimming pools all over the state of Arizona. Semi-Commercial's expertise lies with design and engineering, custom projects, high-rise projects and remodeling. From swimming pools and spas at resort hotels and business complexes to complex water features at master planned communities, Shasta's Semi-Commercial division can bring your project to life.

About Shasta Industries
Shasta Industries consists of nine divisions and is founded on constant innovation and providing astonishing customer service. Shasta employs more than 500 people throughout the Valley and has been Arizona's number one pool builder since 1968. For more information, visit www.shastapools.com.

Shasta Pools Builds Swimming Pool for Future ASU Residents

2008-06-18T12:46:00.002-07:00

As the Arizona State University campus grows, residences are essential to fit the needs of the ever increasing student population. ASU plans to increase housing from 6,800 to 12,000 by 2015. ASU has partnered with ACC (American Campus Committees) to develop a new, modern living area. The South Campus Residential Community (SCRC) is located on the SE corner of Apache Boulevard and McAllister Avenue in Tempe, AZ. It is a project in development for mixed use with student residences, commercial/retail space, common areas and a parking garage. The goal of the project is to attract older upperclassmen that have chosen residences off campus in the developments outside of ASU's main territory. The 1,860 beds in 10 buildings will include a community center, common areas, a fitness center, an auditorium and a lounge. Among the amenities include a Shasta Pool built by the Shasta Pools Semi-Commercial Division.

The Shasta Pool built at ASU's South Campus Residential Community is a 2240 square foot free form pool. Also, included in the design is a 177 square foot spa that will comfortably fit 13 swimmers. The symmetrical pool design compliments the architecture of the building and will be a hub of socialization for the residents. The pool features custom coping and an abundance of sun deck and lounging areas. Plenty of shade structures and planters will surround the pool and spa area. Other key elements for residents to enjoy include a fire pit and a dual barbeque.

About Shasta Semi-Commercial
The Shasta Pools Semi-Commercial division builds spectacular and unique swimming pools all over the state of Arizona. Semi-Commercial's expertise lies with design and engineering, custom projects, high-rise projects and remodeling. From swimming pools and spas at resort hotels and business complexes to complex water features at master planned communities, Shasta's Semi-Commercial division can bring your project to life.

About Shasta Industries
Shasta Semi-Commercial is a division of Shasta Industries. Founded in 1966, Shasta has been Arizona's number one pool builder for 40 consecutive years. Shasta Industries encompasses nine divisions and employs more than 500 people throughout the Valley.

XCEL SURFACES RELEASES NEW PRODUCT

2008-06-09T08:07:00.002-07:00

Xcel Surfaces a subsidiary of Shasta Pools announces the addition of a new product to their current line of floor surfacing compounds. Sure Cure is a low VOC, waterborne hybrid emulsion incorporating proprietary chemistries specifically designed to address the problems associated with accelerated hydration of concrete swimming pool shells and slabs. This new innovation from Xcel Surfaces enhances hydration of concrete to provide increased compressive strength. Sure Cure virtually eliminates cracking, checking and also improves coating adhesion, where applicable. Application of the product is simple and drying time is quick. Sure Cure is spray applied directly to the concrete pool shell or slab immediately after having finished using a conventional pump-type or airless sprayer. This product dries fast and cleans up easily with water. Available in 5 gallon containers.

About Xcel Surfaces
Established in 1996, Xcel Surfaces was created in response to a growing demand for quality surfacing products and services. Today, our products are designed for consistency and reliability with the ultimate goal of exceeding customer expectations. The Xcel Surfaces system is engineered for concrete texturing, coloring, and superior performance. A growing number of homeowners, businesses, contractors, and architects are becoming inspired by the flexibility of decorative concrete surfacing and the wide array of patterns, colors, and options available. Xcel Surfaces is one of the nine divisions under the Shasta Pools corporate umbrella.

About Shasta Industries, Inc.
Shasta Pools consists of nine divisions and is founded on constant innovation and providing astonishing customer service. Shasta employs more than 500 people throughout the Valley and has been Arizona's number one pool builder since 1968. For more information, visit www.shastapools.com.

Shasta Pools Introduces Eco-Friendly Equipment

2008-06-07T08:55:00.002-07:00

Shasta Pools & Spas, Arizona's largest pool builder has teamed up with Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of pool and spa equipment, to provide an innovative line of eco-friendly products for pool owners who want to save money and be good to the environment.

Shasta Pools is now offering a complete line of products from Pentair including breakthrough pump technology that can cut electricity costs from 30-90 percent compared to older technology, one-or two-speed induction motor pumps. Also included under this new brand of Eco Select products are energy-efficient, color-changing LED pool lights that use 75 percent less electricity than standard incandescent and halogen lights, controls that automate and synchronize equipment scheduling to reduce electrical costs, and sanitization equipment that recycles minimal amounts of salt to generate "pure" chlorine in the swimming pool without having to buy, transport, store, or add chlorine by hand.

"Since our founding in 1966, Shasta has been at the forefront of pool building trends," said Steve Ast, Shasta Pools Vice President of Sales. "Because of our history as innovators, it was only logical that we would develop this close relationship with Pentair, which has developed the industry’s most advanced pool and spa products."

Based in Phoenix, Shasta Pools employs over 500 people throughout nine divisions that offer design and construction of pools and spas, retail sales of pool and spa products, remodeling and refurbishing services, in-floor cleaning and circulation systems, and surface coatings for decks, patios and driveways. For more information about Shasta and its new alliance with Pentair, please visit www.shastapools.com.

Headquarted in Sanford, N. C. and Moorpark, Calif. Pentair Water Pool and Spa has earned a reputation in its industry as the innovation leader in pool and spa products for residential and commercial use. Pentair Water Pool and Spa is part of the Pentair Water Group, which employs more than 8,000 people worldwide and is the leading global manufacturer of equipment for the movement, treatment, storage and enjoyment of water. Pentair Water Group is an operating group of Pentair, Inc. (NYSE: PNR). For more information about Pentair Water Pool and Spa, www.staritepool.com.

Shasta Industries Introduces the Trio Deck Jet

2008-06-04T08:43:00.003-07:00

For customers seeking variety and new options for water features, A&A Manufacturing, a subsidiary of Shasta Pools announces the addition of the Trio Deck Jet. This new and exciting product is mounted into the deck of a swimming pool, splash pad or fountain. Crafted from automotive-grade ABS plastic and injected with UV inhibitors to extend its life, the Trio Deck Jet is the first fountain of its kind. The Trio Deck Jet enables pool owners to switch the eyelet with a simple turn-and-click to create a variety of water displays. It has three different spray patterns: Water Jet, Fan Spray and Triple Spray. With the Trio Deck Jet versatility is endless; the nozzle comes in five colors to match any deck.

Pool owners choose to install water features for many reasons. If you happen to live near a busy street the calming sound of a water feature can help to drown out the noise. Water features can also add fun, excitement and beauty to any swimming pool. The versatility and appeal of the Trio Deck Jet makes it an obvious choice for pool customers seeking a new approach to water accents.

About A&A Manufacturing
A&A is a pool product manufacturer located in the Phoenix, Arizona. A&A provides unique, automated pool products to customers all over the world. A&A Manufacturing is subsidiary of Shasta Pools that constantly strives to offer customers innovative products and astonishing customer service.

SHASTA POOLS REMODELS FLAGSTAFF’S FOREST HIGHLANDS AQUATIC FACILITY

2008-06-02T08:33:00.002-07:00

This week the Shasta Pools Remodeling Division announces the completion of the Forest Highlands Aquatic Facility. Located in Flagstaff, Arizona at 7,000 ft elevation, this hide-away is tucked among majestic pine trees and groves of mature oaks and aspens. The retreat encompasses two beautifully maintained golf courses, two clubhouses and the activities offered to residents are endless. Since the swimming pool is a fundamental part of this community its maintenance is necessary and was much needed.

This 70,000 gallon pool was a great endeavor. Blue Estrada, Remodeling Processing Manager for Shasta Pools explains, "It was interesting to try to understand the true state of this pool's interior and waterline tile because we first went to measure, it was covered under two feet of snow." The main concern of the Forest Highlands management was getting the pool re-plastered. The new interior is a beautiful polymer reinforced plaster with a blue quartz additive. An additional, and not to be overlooked feature is the CAT (Computer Automated Technology) 5000 Controller that was installed to operate the pool. This highly advanced automation system controls the pH and Chlorine levels in the pool. The manual addition of chlorine and muriatic acid is nearly eliminated. This controller also gives pool keepers the ability to remotely control the levels in the pool and receive notices about level changes via satellite.

About Shasta Pools Remodeling Division
The Shasta Pools Remodeling Division is the number one remodeling division in America. As a subsidiary of Shasta Pools & Spas, Shasta's Remodeling team is highly focused on quality craftsmanship and dedication to the customer. With over 26,000 swimming pool remodeling projects completed and over 75,000 new swimming pools built in Arizona, Shasta's extensive experience consists of a wide variety of types of projects. No matter who built the swimming pool, Shasta Pools & Spas can remodel it.

About Shasta Industries, Inc.
Shasta Industries, Inc. consists of nine divisions and is founded on constant innovation and providing astonishing customer service. Shasta employs over 500 people in the Valley and has been Arizona’s number one pool builder since 1968. For more information please visit www.ShastaPools.com.

Shasta Pool Repair Launches New Website

2008-05-28T08:30:00.004-07:00

Shasta Pool Repair also known as Shasta Customer Care is excited to officially announce the launch of its new website. The results of this on-going project have been well received. According to John Neely, Senior Marketing & Creative Manager, "As an organization that constantly strives to provide remarkable customer service, we are continually looking for ways to make a Shasta customer's experience convenient and beneficial...I believe that we have accomplished that with ShastaPoolRepair.com. Our goal was to provide the Shasta Pool Repair customer with a convenient gateway to these products and services."

Through ShastaPoolRepair.com we are introducing new resources for pool owners throughout the Valley. Monthly promotions and seasonal specials are an integral part of the website that allows new and existing customers the opportunity to receive incentives and discounts. ShastaPoolRepair.com allows visitors to schedule appointments for tune-ups, inspections or repairs effortlessly.

About Shasta Pool Repair
With the experience that comes from building over 75,000 swimming pools, the Shasta Pools service and repair division has the expertise to provide solid repair services to any make or model of swimming pool. There are hundreds of choices for pool repair and maintenance which makes it hard to trust a company and know that you are receiving the most for your money. For over 28 years, Shasta Pool Repair has run over 700,000 service calls in Arizona, giving us years and volumes of experience to draw from to diagnose and repair a swimming pool's operational needs.

About Shasta Industries, Inc.
Shasta Industries consists of nine divisions and is founded on constant innovation and the ability to provide astonishing customer service. Shasta employs more than 500 people in the Valley and has been Arizona's number one pool builder since 1968. For more information please visit www.shastapools.com.

Shasta Pools Offers Customers Advanced Draining Technology

2008-05-19T08:31:00.002-07:00

Shasta Pools and Spas has teamed up with its manufacturing division, A&A Manufacturing to offer customers a true innovation in pool drains - the Anti-Vortex Single Channel (AVSC) Drain.

The AVSC Drain is the only drain of its kind available to swimming pool owners. It is the only un-blockable drain on the market. The AVSC can be used anywhere high-flow debris removal and anti-entrapment are a requirement. The advanced engineering of the AVSC is perfect for spas, negative/vanishing edges, fountains and sheer decent pool features. It even allows Shasta Pools owners the ability to plumb two pumps into one AVSC Drain instead of the typical four main drains. This leaves a much less crowded interior finish. John Neely, Senior Marketing Manager for Shasta Pools commented, "It is funny to think of a pool drain as a technical piece of equipment but that is exactly what the AVSC is. We are equipping all the new Shasta Pools with this drain and the customer benefits by having enhanced cleaning and circulation."

The AVSC Drain is listed and certified by a national testing laboratory to comply with ASME/ANSI A112.19.8M and it is certified to 275 gallons per minute.

About A&A Manufacturing

A&A is a pool product manufacturer located in the Phoenix, Arizona. A&A provides unique, automated pool products to customers all over the world. A&A Manufacturing is subsidiary of Shasta Industries, Inc that constantly strives to offer customers the most innovative products and astonishing customer service.

About Shasta Pools & Spas

Shasta Pools & Spas was founded in 1966 and has been the number one pool builder in Arizona since 1968 with more than 75,000 swimming pools built throughout the state. Shasta is a recognized leader and innovator in the swimming pool industry and is the only Phoenix pool builder that is a member of the prestigious Master Pools Guild. Over the years, the company has grown to include nine divisions including swimming pool building, pool remodeling, pool product manufacturing and pool supply retail stores.

Shasta Pools tips to prepare your pool for the summer heat of Phoenix, AZ

2008-05-12T12:45:00.003-07:00

Shasta Pools explains a few Basic Steps for Preparing a Swimming Pool for the Summer.

Phoenix, AZ - Save time and money by running through the common pool tune-up that can get your swimming pool ready for the season.

First thing is first, start with your water chemistry. Take a sample of water to the closest Shasta Pool Supply store and let them do a FREE Computerized Water Analysis to determine what your pool really needs in order to start the swimming season off right. See all six Valley locations.

The next step is to check the operation of your pool's equipment. Make sure that catch baskets and skimmer baskets are clean and free of debris. Be sure that you have checked for any minor leaks or drips around your equipment, particularly while it is in operation. Inspect the O-Rings for dryness or cracking in the obvious areas such as the filter, backwash valve and the skimmer. Keep in mind that all pools are different and there may be other O-Rings that you need to check on your specific system. Shasta Pool Repair helps pool owners get prepare for the season with a simple 10-point tune-up, visit Shasta Pool Repair's Website for more information and pricing.

Finally, ensure that your pool's cleaning system is operating properly and doing the job that is intended to do. If it is not working, review your owner's manual for troubleshooting tips from the manufacturer. If you are still unable to resolve the issue, you can bring your pool cleaner into a nearby Shasta Pools & Supplies store or you can call Shasta Pools Repair Center if you own an in-floor pool cleaning system. A good pool cleaning and maintenance regiment can save time and money in the long life of your pool.

Shasta Pools & Supplies with Shasta Pool Repair are both divisions of Shasta Industries, Inc. Shasta Industries, Inc. was founded on the principle of providing innovative products and astonishing customer service. Family owned and operated since 1966, Shasta has been named Arizona's number one builder for 40 consecutive years. To learn more information, visit Shasta Pools Website.

Shasta Pools brings consumers a line of luxury pool chemicals

2008-05-05T09:25:00.011-07:00

Swimming Pool Supplies Range in Quality and Shasta Pools Supply Store Explain why Quality Makes a Difference.

Phoenix, AZ - Shasta Pools Supply stores around the Valley have teamed up with BioGuard® to offer the Phoenix market the latest innovations in swimming pool chemicals. BioGuard®'s newest development, SilkGuard™ technology allows pool owners to sanitize their pool by the same method as traditional chlorine tablets while leaving the pool water silky smooth and crystal-clear.

This unique blend of chemicals provides protection against the hard water components and minerals that can build up in swimming pools. SilkTabs™ also act to protect equipment from harmful erosion and scaling while killing bacteria. This leaves customers to enjoy the silky smooth feel of the pool water that is absent with traditional chemicals. Shasta Pool Supplies has six locations around the Phoenix Metropolitan area, which carry the BioGuard SilkTab products at competitive prices.

About Shasta Pool Supplies
Shasta Pool Supplies a division of Shasta Industries, Inc. is dedicated to providing quality products and services. Shasta Industries, Inc. consists of nine divisions and employs more than 500 people in the Phoenix market. Shasta Pools has been Arizona's number one swimming pool builder since 1968. For more information, visit www.ShastaPools.com.

About Shasta Pools & Spas
Shasta Pools & Spas was founded in 1966 and has been the number one pool builder in Arizona since 1968 with more than 75,000 swimming pools built throughout the state. Shasta is a recognized leader and innovator in the swimming pool industry and is the only Phoenix pool builder that is a member of the prestigious Master Pools Guild. Over the years, the company has grown to include nine divisions including swimming pool building, pool remodeling, pool product manufacturing and pool supply retail stores.

Shasta Pools Opens New Pool Supply Store in Tempe

2008-03-12T09:32:00.009-07:00

TEMPE - To help Valley residents get a jump start on spring, Shasta Pool Supplies opens their newest retail store at 1245 West Elliot Road, Suites 105 & 107, in Tempe, on Saturday and Sunday, March 15th and 16th, 2008 with a Grand Opening celebration.

To thank customers for shopping at the new Tempe store, Shasta Pools will pass out free ice cream and hold drawings to win prizes including a $2500 Visa gift card, a $1000 Visa gift card, a $500 Visa gift card, pool products, toys, and much more! Customers can also take advantage of special offers and enter to win prizes at all six Shasta Pool Supplies Stores in the Valley during the Grand Opening weekend.

"The month of March is the perfect opportunity for pool owners to get their pool prepared for swimming," says Retail Operations Manager, Bernie Wenzel. "The Shasta Pool Supplies Grand Opening Sale means big discounts on the items people really need." No matter who built their pool, pool owners will be able to get the parts, supplies and quality chemicals they need, and experience world-class customer service.

Shasta Pool Supplies is a subsidiary of Shasta Industries, Inc. and operates six retail locations in the Phoenix area. Shasta Industries consists of nine divisions and is founded on constant innovation and providing astonishing customer service. Shasta employs more than 550 people in the Valley and has been Arizona's #1 pool builder since 1968.

The Business Journal of Phoenix: Shasta Pools Opens New Tempe Pool Supply Store

2008-03-11T09:54:00.003-07:00

by Lynn Ducey Phoenix Business Journal

Shasta Industries has opened its sixth Shasta Pool Supplies store, at 1245 W. Elliot Road in Tempe.

In addition to its pool supply retail operation and pool design centers, Shasta Industries operates nine divisions, including pool construction and remodeling for commercial and residential clients as well as a commercial parts and coatings operation.

Locally owned by the Ast family, the company was founded in Phoenix in 1966.

Shasta Pools masters destiny through diversification

2008-02-29T09:42:00.003-07:00

The Business Journal of Phoenix
by Lynn Ducey Phoenix Business Journal

Shasta Pools and Spas has been giving Valley residents a place to splash for decades and, over the years, has learned to ride the waves of the real estate business.

"The housing market is the No. 1 thing that's been challenging out there. In order to build a new pool, a lot of times there has to be a new house," said Steve Ast, Shasta's vice president of sales.

Founded in the Valley in 1966 by the Ast family, the company long ago realized that diversity tempers real estate's notorious ups and downs.

"In our early years, we were very dependent on residential. But it's really gotten to a point (that) we are significantly diversified," Ast said.

While Shasta is well-known for residential pool construction under its Shasta Pools and Spas brand, the company -- formally known as Shasta Industries Inc. -- also is heavily involved in the manufacture of large-scale resort and municipal pools.

Shasta built Buckeye's 450,000-gallon municipal pool, which features a 120-foot-long water slide, a dedicated competition diving area and a giant mushroom that dumps buckets of water onto patrons, said Dave Showen, parks manager for the town of Buckeye.

"With daily visitors, we always max out at 400 people. We do swim lessons and diving competitions and practices, and with reservations we are booked from mid-May to mid-September," Showen said.

In his previous position with the city of Peoria, Showen also worked with Shasta: The company built the 250,000-gallon Centennial Pool in 2001 and refurbished the Peoria Pool in the late 1990s.

"Shasta knows what people want in this industry. They are experts in their business and did a really great job in a timely manner," Showen said.

That reputation is the reason Shea Homes identifies Shasta as a recommended brand for the Walnut, Calif.-based home builder, said Buddy Satterfield, president of Shea Homes Arizona.

Shea has worked with Shasta for almost two decades, and Satterfield said its ability to offer such high-quality amenities is important to Shea's competitive edge.

"People view a pool as an extension of their home. We tend to spend a lot of time in our backyards in Phoenix, and pools really promote the use of the backyard," he said.

Ast declined to discuss financials for the privately held business, but Shasta officials estimate they have built pools at 75,000 Valley homes.

The firm continues to build on its presence, operating five stores and design centers across Arizona offering retail sales, repair and replacement services.

Shasta's diversification also includes the manufacture of commercial water features, including those at Tempe Marketplace. In addition to a coatings division, the company does significant business in the manufacture and sales of pool filtration systems and replacement parts to commercial customers worldwide.

Ast said executives have strategic goals set for each of the company's nine divisions.

Overarching plans for Shasta include further developing its large-scale resort and municipal business across the Western U.S., continuing to build the portfolio of international clients for its parts business, and bringing new innovations to its residential offerings.

While the home building and pool business are extremely competitive, particularly in the Phoenix market, Ast said many people in the Valley have short memories.

"The last downturn in Arizona was in the 1990-'91-'92 time frame. And people tend to forget about those times. Now, it's the mortgage industry. But over the past 30 to 40 years, business -- and even we as a state and a city -- have always worked it out," Ast said.
Shasta Industries

What: Builder and designer of commercial, resort and residential pools and spas; manufacturer of pool-related commercial parts and coatings

Founded: 1966

President: Ed "Skip" Ast

HQ: 3750 W. Indian School Road, Phoenix

Divisions: Nine

Employees: 540 full- and part-time

Shasta Pools Brings International Swimming Pool Design Awards Home to Phoenix, AZ

2008-01-14T15:04:00.014-07:00

The annual APSP International Awards of Excellence drew hundreds of beautiful swimming pool projects. Shasta Pools of Phoenix, Arizona was honored to receive five pool design awards.

Shasta Pools wins five prestigious swimming pool design awards in three pool design categories during the 2007 Association of Pool & Spa Professionals' International Awards of Excellence ceremony held on Thursday, November 29th, 2007 at the Rosen Center Hotel in Orlando, Florida.

Shasta Pools winning designs included:

Bronze in Negative Edge Pool
600 Square Feet or Less

Bronze in Traditional Pool
600 Square Feet or Less

Silver in Negative Edge Pool
600 Square Feet or Less

Silver in Natural Material Pool

Gold in Commercial Water Feature

Steve Ast, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Shasta Pools & Spas noted, "We are very honored to receive so much recognition for our designs. I am very proud of the work the Shasta pool designers produce. Over the years, we have learned that a well-designed pool is one that helps customers realize the home that they have dreamt of. We listen first and design second. The best swimming pools reflect more than the blue skies, they reflect lifestyles. And, quality never goes out of style, so the companies who create value by combining quality construction with an understanding of their customer's needs are the true leaders in our industry. Certainly the hottest pool design trends today are taking classic, formal elements and updating them in modern ways."

"We are excited to continue the Awards of Excellence tradition this year," said APSP President and CEO Bill Weber. "The AOE ceremony is an important part of our overall association, as it offered members and guests an opportunity to appreciate just how far the industry has come in terms of technological and artistic achievement."

Biz Buzz: Shasta Pools and Spas expands with new Gilbert design center

2008-01-11T09:23:00.002-07:00

The Business Journal of Phoenix
by Lynn Ducey Phoenix Business Journal

Shasta Pools and Spas recently opened a design center in Gilbert at 5340 S. Power Road, Ste. 101.

The center offers state-of-the-art master pool designs, including an array of finishes and tiles. It also features equipment that ensures low-maintenance pools.

This is the company's fifth design center in the Valley, joining others in Phoenix, Mesa, Maricopa and Surprise. Although it's already open, the store is expected to hold a grand opening celebration later this month.

Founded in the Valley in 1966, the family company is owned by Ed "Skip" Ast, whose two sons also have leadership roles: Steve Ast is vice president of sales, and Jeff Ast is president of construction.

For more: www.shastapools.com.

The Business Journal of Phoenix: Shasta Pools opens new Surprise Design Center

2007-11-16T09:49:00.002-07:00

by Lynn Ducey Phoenix Business Journal

Phoenix-based Shasta Pools and Spas opened a design center in Surprise with five master pool designers.

The new facility, at 13820 W. Bell Road, Ste. 11, joins the company's three others in Phoenix, Mesa and Maricopa. A fifth design center is expected to open early next year in Gilbert.

Shasta is a family-owned business, founded in 1966 by Bob Ast. His sons, Steve and Jeff, now lead the company as vice president of sales and vice president of construction, respectively.

Modern pools flow in all shapes, sizes, styles

2007-06-30T09:14:00.006-07:00

The Business Journal
Summer 2007

By Linda Obele

Luxury swimming pools are like people. Some are big, and some are bigger. Some are formal, and others are all about fun.

But all pools seem to have one thing in common: Each is designed to beckon its owners outside to enjoy more of Arizona's great year-round weather.

"Arizona living just dictates that," said Linda Hanford, marketing director for Scottsdale homebuilder Toll Brothers Inc. "Buyers are looking for luxury indoors and luxury outdoors. They want to take the indoors in and the outdoors in."

While the trend at one time seemed confined to custom homes, even buyers of production and semi-custom homes are seeking more elaborate outdoor living environments.

Caption page 1: Doug Lasater worked with Shasta Pools to create a dramatic effect for his Scottsdale backyard. His 36- by 18-foot negative edge pool is accented with two large stacked-slate columns topped with fire woks.

Take for example the Terreno model at Toll Brother's new Saguaro Estates community in North Scottsdale, where prices start at $1.2 million. The 6,651-square-foot model features a stunning swimming pool, seating area and fire pit, nontraditionally situated in the home's front courtyard.

"Buyers are asking for the outsides of their homes to be as amenitized as their indoor spaces," Hanford says. "They want pools with misters, design details, unusual shapes, swim up bars. They want sunken barbecue areas, ramadas, raised patio areas, and TV's and pizza ovens by the pool so that their kids don't have to tromp in and out the back door while they're swimming in the summer."

Valley pool builders confirm Hanford's observations and discuss what's in and what's out in the luxury pool and spa world.

Finishes
Over the past several years, stone aggregate finishes have surpassed plaster as the pool coating of choice for many luxury home owners, says Mike Ferraro, president of Phoenician Pool Construction. The finishes go by several brand names. PebbleTec, PebbleSheen and PebbleFina are among the most commonly recognized in the industry.

Benefits of stone aggregate finish include durability, stain resistance and beauty. Ferraro said the newest of these types of finishes is PebbleFina, which combines cement with an additive called pozzolan to make the mixture more durable and resistant to etching from chemicals and hard water. It also incorporates tiny pieces of seashells to enhance the beauty of the pool's interior and add a brilliant sparkle quality to the water.

Also newer on the scene is Beadcrete, the trade name of a concrete pool finish that's smoother and more vibrant than traditional stone aggregate mixtures. The shine and color are attributed to tiny bits of polished glass and shiny rocks incorporated into the product. One of Beadcrete's most attractive features is the way it appears to glow under both natural and artificial light, giving the pool almost a three-dimensional appearance. The cost is about 20 percent greater than stone aggregate, but the result is a smoother feel on the feet. Tile, both ceramic and glass, also is popular in very high-end pools and spas, says Ferraro.

"It's expensive, but stunning," he says, adding that a homeowner might pay $50 per square foot for glass tile, compared with $5 for stone aggregate. Because of the expense, some homeowners choose to use tile sparingly- as an accent along the waterline or in a design at the bottom of the pool, or to cover the surface of a spa.

Caption page 2: A large tiered fountain, arching jets of water and accent lighting transform an ordinary pool into extraordinary.

Inset: A flagstone-topped bar is a nice addition to this pool, which features a built-in seating area

Decks
The 1970's gave us cool deck, a heat-resistant cement coating applied to concrete. The late 80's gave us a more advanced version, using a cement and polymer coating sprayed over concrete decking, then covered with an acrylic masonry paint. But today's luxury pools are more likely to be surrounded by a variety of natural and synthetic stone products, such as flagstone, canterra, travertine and brick, says Bill Gullekson, director of sales for Shasta Pools and Spas' semi-commercial division.

Gullekson says pavers, especially the manufactured products, are forgiving of Arizona's expansive soil conditions and are available in a variety of colors, patterns and textures

Lighting
Modern day pool and spa lighting runs the gamut from the traditional 120-volt incandescent spotlight embedded beneath the water's surface to fiber-optic lights that transmit illumination through tiny fibers. Fiber optics, which traditionally are installed in a strip around the pool's perimeter, have increased in popularity because of the variety of colors available and because the light source is in a remote location. No electricity is used around the water.

Also popular is spectrum amber light, known as SAL. The light is controlled by computer automation and features a spectum of seven colors that can be synchronized for effect.

While not normally thought of as a light source these days, fire is being used more and more in and around Valley pools and spas. "People like the combination of fire and water," says Ferraro.

Natural gas- or propane fueled fire can be found spouting from pots, urns and woks. Sometimes fire appears to emerge from waterfalls and boulders, or from under the water itself.

Scottsdale resident Doug Lasater worked with Shasta Senior Designer Wally Dykert to create a dramatic effect with fire at Lasater's backyard pool and spa. Two fire woks are mounted atop stacked-slate pillars on the back side of a 36- by 18-foot negative edge pool. A square, elevated fire pit behind the pool is framed by the two pillars.

When the features are ignited at night, Lasater says, the effect is a "smoothing ambience" unlike any other.

"Shasta assisted me in creating a one-of-a-kind modern pool which will become the desire for young professionals in years to come," says the 28-year-old real estate investor, who recently finished flight school to become a commercial airline pilot.

Design
Remember when swimming pools were either rectangular or kidney-shaped? Gullekson says in some of the Valley's older residences, those retro shapes are making a comeback. But by and large, today's luxury pools feature geometric shapes that compliment the home's architecture.

Infinity or negative-edge pools still are hot, although maybe not as popular as they were from the late '80s through the '90s.

"They've come a long way," he says. "But I've probably talked more people out of them than in. They need a focal point behind the pool. The water should drop off into another body of water, like a spa, or off into a view of city lights- not into a fence. Otherwise, it's money wasted."

Zero-edge or deck-level pools also are cropping up at more luxury homes, especially those with flat yards. The design, which uses the same technology seen in most public swimming pools, puts the pool water at the same level as the top of the deck. Water from the pools flows into a surrounding gutter and then into an underground surge tank, which recycles it back into the pool. "The look is striking," says Gullekson.

Rock water slides, shade-covered swim-up bars and lazy rivers also can be found at many of the Valley's upscale homes.

Technology
Automation has extended from the house to the pool and lighting. With the tough of a button, homeowners can control the heating, cleaning, lighting and other functions of their outdoor pool and spa from a panel located inside the home.

In-floor cleaning technology and saline systems that create natural chlorine are well-liked for their easy maintenance.

"With pools, almost anything goes," says Gullekson. "But one thing that's definitely 'out' is high-maintenance pools. A pool is like a puppy: When you first get it, you play with it and you don't mind if it barks and you don't mind cleaning up after it. But after a while, the novelty wears off. What keeps people away from getting a pool is their past experiences or perception of cleaning it using a hand vacuum.

Caption page 3: Large fire woks provide mood lighting in Doug Lasater's Scottsdale backyard.

Dave Reinert puts his home makeover experience to good use at Shasta Pools

2007-06-04T08:46:00.008-07:00

Pool & Spa News
By John Miles

The housing market may have lost some steam in the last nine months, but it hasn't stopped Dave Reinert and Shasta Industries from conducting robust business.

"Even if there's a slowdown in new construction, we don't have the same [letup] when it comes to remodeling," Reinert said. "When people stay in their houses, they start to think, 'Maybe I should remodel the kitchen or update the pool.'"

Reinert spent the last 10 years at Sunvek, a Scottsdale, Ariz.-based home remodeling firm, serving most recently as its vice president/general manager. Then in February, he saw an opportunity at Shasta, a Pool and Spa News Top Builder in Phoenix, and joined the company as general manager of its Remodeling Division.

Despite the fact that his experience is in overseeing interior construction, Reinert said the transition has been surprisingly easy.

"There's a lot of synergy between [the work at Sunvek] and what I'm doing as the general manager in the pool remodeling business," he explained. "When it comes to the evaluation process, the staging, construction, cleanup and scheduling all the time frames and intervals - the processes are very similar between the pool and home construction [industries]."

Reinert stressed the importance of timely construction and communication. In fact, Shasta uses a team of customer service reps to keep customers informed.

"Shasta does a good job of tracking the phases of construction... even with an alarm code to tell [superintendents] if they've gone past the amount of allocated time," Reinert said.

For most customers, he added, the standard remodeling package includes a new pool finish and tile, recoating of the patio and a pool equipment upgrade. For more upscale and design-intensive projects, the company will add a spa or waterfeature, incorporate new landscaping, and even change the shape and depth of the pool.

Even with a 15.3 percent decrease in Western housing starts over the past year, Shasta has continued to capitalize on existing homes and older pools. Reinert isn't worried. As he noted, "[Homeowners] spend so much time in the backyard because of the beautiful climate here... they still see [the remodeling] as a good investment.

Shasta Pools Commercial Division recently featured in Arizona Republic

2007-06-03T09:11:00.002-07:00

Shasta Pools Commercial Division built all 10 of these public pools recently featured in the Arizona Republic.

All 10 Public Swimming Pool Projects Written About in an Arizona Republic Article Titled Cool Pools were built by Shasta Pools of Phoenix, Arizona.

Phoenix, AZ - Shasta Pools and Spas known as Shasta Pools Commercial and Olympic has regularly been chosen by municipalities around the Phoenix area and across the southwest. The Arizona Republic described the ten swimming / water park projects typically called Aquatic Centers as, "The Valley's Coolest Pools" and added, "with slides, whirlpools and splash playgrounds, these municipal pools entertain while they cool you down."

The profiled projects were:
Surprise Aquatic Center
15831 N. Bullard Ave. (623) 266-4500
It has a zero-depth pool with play features, a tunnel slide, a flume slide, a vortex whirlpool and diving boards.

McDowell Mountain Ranch park and aquatic center
15525 N. Thompson Peak Parkway (480) 312-6677
It has four diving boards, a tube slide, a 600-foot lazy river, a beach entry pool and an interactive splash pad.

Foothills Recreation and Aquatics Center
5600 W. Union Hills Drive (623) 930-4600
Cruise the lazy river, splash in the aquatic playground or hit two slides

Hamilton Aquatic Center
3838 S. Arizona Ave. (480) 782-2630
With a vortex whirlpool, two slides, a splash playground and a current river, this pool is always packed.

Desert Oasis Aquatic Center
1400 W. Summit Place (480) 732-1061
The center has a zero-depth play area with a kiddie slide, spray whale, 112-foot twisty slide and drop slide.

University
1102 W. Van Buren St.
It's an older pool, but it has been remodeled. Now there is a mushroom fountain, dumping buckets and a small slide.

Buckeye Aquatic Center
207 N Ninth St. (623) 386-7760
It has a twisty slide. Two fountain play areas and a zero-depth pool.

Carson Junior High Pool
525 N Westwood (480) 644-5300
The city's newest pool has a twisty tunnel slide, a tumble bucket, a zero-depth pool and shade.

Shepherd Aquatic Complex
1407 N. Alta Mesa Drive (480) 644-5300
The complex has a mushroom fountain play area, a water slide, three diving boards and shade.

Mesquite Aquatic Center
100 W. Mesquite St. (480) 503-6292
The best pool in Gilbert, Mesquite has two water slides, a lap pool and diving board, and a kid's play area with mushroom fountains.

Steve Ast, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Shasta Pools & Spas remarked, "I love the trust Shasta Pools C&O has earned over the years with the municipalities here in the Phoenix area. I am also proud that when it comes to building big, technically complex pool parks, Shasta Pools is the name the always comes up."

About Shasta Pools & Spas
Shasta Pools & Spas was founded in 1966 and has been the number one pool builder in Arizona since 1968 with more than 75,000 swimming pools built throughout the state. Shasta is a recognized leader and innovator in the swimming pool industry and is the only Phoenix pool builder that is a member of the prestigious Master Pools Guild. Over the years, the company has grown to include nine divisions including swimming pool building, pool remodeling, pool product manufacturing and pool supply retail stores.

Shape and Flow: Standing columns, swim-up seating Water design can say a lot

2007-05-26T00:14:00.005-07:00

East Valley Tribune

By Christina Vanoverbeke

For Kirk Bianchi, great pool design is about integrating the water's shape with the architecture of the home.

He says this idea may still be forward thinking when it comes to pool design, but that when people want their outdoor space to flow seamlessly with their home's design they are more likely to call a pool designer than to try to design a pool themselves.

Bianchi calls himself an "architectural scope designer" and believes the pool needs to be subject to the design of the home, and that it's about more than the body of water itself, but about the landscape and "hardscape" that surrounds it.

"When you design everything around the pool first it makes sense," he says. "Then the pool's not an imposition."

One of his favorite projects was one he built on a hillside in Scottsdale in 1999. He was able to get involved with the project as the home was being constructed and designed, not just the pool but the hardscape - the patio, walkway and planters - leading from the parking area to the front door.

To get to the entrance of the home, you must navigate the pool's edge.

"Everything from the gate is about the experience," says Bianchi. "You don't get everything all at once. There's a deliberate sequence from the moment you arrive."

"There's a cadence to your steps. A musical approach. The step, step, flat of the stairs. When you open the gate you see the inner courtyard, the curved stairs to the front door. It's about the patio-pool interaction."

[Picture Caption] The architect of this home designed a horizontal beam with a 25-foot column rising out of the pool. Pool Designer Kirk Bianchi covered the tower with slate veneer and punched a hole through the top, adding a spillway through it. Near the bottom of the tower are three more spillways. Kim Levaggi, senior design consultant with Shasta pools and Spas, says pool design is moving "well away from boulders, rocks and waterfalls" and homeowners are opting for cultured stone, stacked stone and flagstone, a more Tuscan look. Above, ramadas over the pool enhance this look and provide much needed shade while you're soaking.

WATER FEATURES

Not every pool can be custom-designed with such detail, but there are more options available to East Valley homeowners when it comes to great pool design.

What do homeowners want? They want their pools to maximize recreation and provide a whole other area of the home in which to socialize.

Out are diving pools with their limited athletic function.

In are pools with swim-up bars and built-in seating. While they won't all have 25-foot slate faced towers like Bianchi's creation, more homeowners are including water features within the pool.

[Picture Caption] Different types of waterfalls and water features are popular for pools in the East Valley. Scuppers, in which the water is shot out of a frog's mouth or drains out of a raised tower, and runnels or troughs that the water travels through before reaching the pool, add visual and audio interest. Woks can be positioned at the top of columns (as reflected in this pool) or serve as water features. Having flames shoot out of the top adds drama to any landscape. "People see a lot of these things at large resorts in Hawaii and Mexico and they want the same look at home," says Levaggi. Negative-edge pools are popular in the East Valley, and he suggests a "reverse negative-edge" or multiple elevation, where one part of the pool, most typically a spa, is elevated above ground level.

In terms of style, Kim Levaggi, senior design consultant with Shasta Pools and Spas, says every designer has a different opinion on what's hot now. The clients he works with are choosing more formal, straight-lined pools.

"With some of the builders I work with, Toll Brothers, for example, the Tuscan, Mediterranean style, with Old World look, is in and the more formal pools look great," he says.

"A lot of it is dependant on the style of the home."

Diving pools aren't as hip as they once were. With smaller yards, fitting a 21-foot diving pool bowl is a squeeze, and because the deep portion of the pool is so large, the style is not conductive to playing.

Instead, homeowners are selecting "play pools", which typically start out at three feet deep, then go to 5 feet deep and back to 4 feet deep at the other end.

"They're great for families who want to play volleyball, basketball or whatever," says Levaggi.
Slides aren't as popular as they once where, he says, adding "they're not aesthetically pleasing for such an investment in your backyard."

Instead, splash-downs, where a white plume of water shoots about the pool's surface, are en vogue.

"We sell a lot of those," says Levaggi. "They are placed on a large step, they look great and kids love to play on those."

Flagstone is still popular around the pool, and you'll find cantera and travertine as well. But what's new? Pavers are hot, despite the heat they hold.

Says Levaggi: "People are forgoing functionality for aesthetics."

And they're going customized, with options available for any taste or desired use.

"Just about anything," he says, "is doable".

[Picture Caption] Straight-line and rectangular pools are enjoying a resurgence in backyards across the East Valley. They provide a formal look that's a throwback to the glamorous pools popularized by Hollywood after World War II.

Shasta Pools: acquires stamped concrete manufacturer

2007-05-22T09:58:00.002-07:00

Pool & Spa News
by Joshua Keim

In a push toward vertical integration, Shasta Industries Inc. recently acquired FossilCrete Inc., a manufacturer of stamped concrete systems. The sale was for an undisclosed amount.

FossilCrete was founded in 2002. The Oklahoma City company began as a contractor, creating artificial boulders, waterfalls and vertical stamped concrete forms, eventually making its products aPublish Postvailable to other builders. The firm has doubled in size each year, according to Stanton Pace, the company's former president who has been retained as director of new product development.

"This is a dream come true for our company because now we'll have Shasta's tremendous marketing, sales and training support backing up our product," Pace said. "Those were our biggest hurdles because we were growing so fast. This will allow us to take the line to the next level."

Shasta plans to operate the FossilCrete line under the company's sister division, Xcel Surfaces. For 10 years, Xcel Surfaces has made decorative concrete for custom decking.

"This is a good marriage for us because it allows us to increase our product offerings," said Andy Blake, manufacturing operations officer at Shasta of Phoenix, a Pool & Spa News Top Builder. "It's also a good fit with our pool-building business under Shasta Pools & Spas."
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The acquisition represents Shasta's continued pursuit of vertical integration by bringing additional manufacturing operations in-house. For example, the firm also owns A&A Manufacturing Inc., which produces automated pool products such as in-floor cleaning systems and chlorinators. "Having manufacturing capabilities that other pool- [building] companies don't have allows us to be more independent," said Blake, who will oversee the new business segment.

Added Pace, "Now that we're free to pursue new ideas, we're going to come up with a bunch of new products."

On that note, he said that some manufacturing, research and development, and technical service will remain at FossilCrete's plant in Oklahoma City. But business operations and additional manufacturing for FossilCrete will be moved to the Xcel Surfaces facilities in Phoenix.