In each country there are laboratories which test Stones and issue Certificates of suitability for different uses. Unfortunately, there is no certified laboratory in the world, for testing the suitability for rocks use, around pools.

We provide laboratory tests for 1) resistance to frost and behavior to temperature changes 2) flexural strength mainly for the grates and 3 ) slip resistance proofing. Our company has, already, ordered for in-factory gauging units, in order to evaluate these properties, constantly, during production and, assess suitability of the products. Presently, in the factory, we operate the measuring system of overflowing water capacity of grates, and, soon will operate the measuring systems for flexural strength, finishing durability and testing flexural strength following continuous freeze-thaw circles

The artificial (engineering) marbles processed by POOLSTONES _{by SOFIKITIS} are offered in beige, grey and white color, all having the same composition.

Their main advantages consist of the color homogeneity and the resistance in an acidic environment, in particular in an environment where the pH is significantly low. Moreover, the large proportion of resin (7%) contained in artificial marbles composition contributes to their greater flexural (bending) strength compared to all other natural stones.

On the other hand, the high percentage of resin contained in artificial marbles composition could be also perceived as a significant disadvantage. More precisely, due to the resin existence, artificial marbles bonding in a high-temperature environment, such as the Mediterranean, is considered as a difficult and complicated process.

Therefore, the use of artificial marble is restricted to decorating pool copings and drain grates, always accompanied by high quality adhesives, while it should be avoided in cases of outdoor floor decking.

In response to the concern raised by our Russian client, Simeon Group, according to which we were asked to smoothen the point which connects the rectilinear part of the pool and its curvilinear part (connecting point), we would like to clarify that the degree of the edges smoothing illustrated in the photorealistic design is inextricably connected to and highly depends on the details offered by the CAD design. It is only the Auto-Cad photorealistic visualization which is considered as the most reliable solution, offering an accurate representation, thus contributing to the elimination of differences during installation.

More precisely, even in cases where the photorealistic images illustrate sharp edges, all edges are subject to smoothing processing throughout the entire manufacturing process implementation, while the CAD-CAM archives integrate the results of this smoothing process.

In order to address our client’s concern and contribute to the final customer’s deeper understanding of the product shape, POOLSTONES _{by SOFIKITIS} Technical Department prepared and forwarded a detailed and more accurate design.

As illustrated in the first two photos, the connecting point which was required to be subject to smoothing process has been marked.

The next two photos illustrate the floor plan and the precise section of the pool after the connecting point smoothing processing, achieved with the use of Auto-Cad.

Every company should proceed with necessary tests and measurements in approved laboratories in order to acquire calibrations for its products.

Companies do not provide written guarantee on natural decorative stones, for the reason that nature does not enter into molds. At tests of hardness a stone or a small part of the stone may be proved  as the “weak link “and behave differently over time.

Firstly, around the perimeter of the pool, for the copings, the overflow drain grates, the pool steps, in the internal sides and the bottom of the pool (lining), over the decking area of the  swimming pool and for any other water drain grates in the surround.

Natural or artificial stones that are used for decoration.

Are those that nature has made millions of years ago, close to the surface or buried in great depths and which due to tectonic movements are found either on the surface or are mined by men.

As Marble is characterized only a type of metamorphosed limestone or dolomite composition stone, usually of white, off-white or gray colors.

Are those stones that a human makes when imitating nature, by using debris of natural stone and chemistry for their adhesion.

Any natural stone that may be honed and can be used as decorative material, may be called marble in the market, which, usually, is a hard limestone.

White, Off-white, beige and gray are the most common and the most durable colors of decorative stones.

It is the main distinction of the stones. Natural stones are made by Nature having color variation imperfections and natural beauty, and, the Artificial stones are man made with enhanced properties and color on demand.

Green, red and black colors in marble are not rare, but they lose their color easily if exposed to the sun.

Marble, Limestone, Porous stone, Sandstone, Slate and Granite stones are widely used for the decoration of construction projects. Nowadays, any compact or slate stone can be mined, is used in construction and decoration.

When mining a rock, we achieve natural surfaces only in slate stones (slates), while in all other cases it is necessary to slice a slab by mechanical means. The resulting surface of this mechanical cutting usually has signs of cutting and can not be used for decoration prior to a finishing process.

Artificial marbles and Artificial granite are 2 main types of artificial stones with the main distinction the prevalence of either calcium (Ca) on the first, or Silicon (Si) for the second. The Artificial granite that are called Quartz stones, are more expensive but more durable and decorative stones.

With regards to the pool, we characterize as internal profile the pool side edge, and external profile the opposite one. Thus every decorative stone has an exterior and an interior profile, which both should be clearly defined when confirming an order.

Depending on the way of cutting and processing the stone surfaces, their edges are remodelled similarly. There are clear cut edges, sandblasted, bush hammered, and, tumbled edges as main profiles.

Polishing, honing, bush hammering, scratching, sandblasting, flaming but also combinations of these finishings are proposed for the decorative stones.

Standardised or specially constructed showers using the same material that has been used for the decoration of the pool. Providing non slippery floor area and necessary inclination to facilitate water drainage.

The third piece and outer part of the marble set, which is mainly used for the support of marble grate and less for the aesthetic enhancement of the marble set.

Angular Overflows are usually resolved in 3 ways: a) special angular pieces, b) oblique cutting of straight grates, c) oblique cutting of blind pieces Each solution has advantages and disadvantages. Special angular pieces, which require proper 90 degree angles, aesthetically stand out from adjacent grates. The oblique cutting grates are the best aesthetic solution and can be applied even to angles different than 90 degrees, but with the risk that some slices from the grate might brake, since the stone gets wicker at that part. Finally, the oblique cut  blind pieces are the most secure and easy solution for any angle, having as only disadvantage the interruption of the slots by the angle of the pool.

It is common that the horizontal surfaces of pool steps are covered by the same material that has been used for coating the rim of the pool. The riser (vertical surface of a step) is lined with the same material with the interior lining of the pool, i.e. mosaic, tile, pebble or liner.

A main advantage of decorative stones is that they can provide uniformity in color between the perimeter of the pool and the pool surround. The variety of non slippery finishings that decorative stones may offer and practically their unlimited range of sizes, enhance this solution, at least for private projects.

In rare cases a pool may be coated inside and outside with the same material. Recommended for those who prefer using the same materials for their pool. The decorative stones are the ONLY material that can decorate not only  the rim and the channel of a swimming pool, but its interior surfaces and flooring at the pool surround, as well.

A free shape pool (with curved parts) can be imprinted by: 
a) geometry of arcs’ radius and straight parts
b) making a pattern (template)
c) digital file

Interior and Exterior grate profiles may be : 1) step for marble grate, 2) step for plastic grate guide, 3) double step for marble and/or plastic grate, 4) straight cut, no step.

Our company’s specialization is drain Grates, having patented internationally 3 types of Grates, we continuously invest in research for our products improvement. These products made from decorative stones combine 3 main advantages: a) water drainage in the channel, b) slip resistance and safety, and, c) easy access to the channel for cleaning. Depending on their characteristics, Grates may have: 1) Ôtransverse Slots, 2) Longitudinal Slots, 3) Hidden Slots, and, Grates may be 1) Flat , 2) Curved, 3) Reinforced with doubling plate, 4) Straight, 5) Curvilinear & 6) Modular

Exterior profile of the third  piece of an overflow set can be either: 1) straight cut, 2) beveled or 3) with bullnose

The interior profile of the third piece of an overflow set can be either: 1) flat step for supporting marble grate, 2) flat step for supporting special plastic grate, 3) lifted step for marble grate, 4) lifted step for special plastic grate or 5) straight cut.

The interior profile of the coping is most commonly what the swimmer holds and rests, which must provide easy grip and safety for non-injury. The most common interior profiles of copings are: 1) embossed with full bullnose 2) embossed ‘ Ideal’ 3)  Slim embossed 4) handle grip 5)  demi bullnose with non slippery strips 6) demi bullnose 7) full bullnose 8) beveled edge.

Exterior profile to an overflow pool ends to 1) step for marble grate, 2) step for special plastic grate 3) straight cut.

Exterior profiles of skimmer type copings are: 1) straight cut  2) beveled 3) with bullnose

Exterior profiles of waterfall copings are: 1) straight cut 2) beveled 3) with bullnose 4) embossed with full bullnose 5) embossed intermittent profile with full bullnose

The coping that covers the rim of an overflow pool towards the water channel. The internal edge is intended for the grip of the swimmer, while the exterior edge ends to a small step where the grate is placed.

This specific Coping profile is embossed, showing towards the pool a full bullnose of 5cm thickness and to the outer side a lower tail of 3cm thickness. While originally was built for skimmer pools subsequently it was used in several overflow pools, usually by having such an inclination that the water was completely flowing over the bull nose of 5cm thickness. We could say that it is the most impressive standardized coping of all. Standard size is 610x310x50/30 mm & 302x310x50/30mm.

The coping that covers the rim of a pool with low water level. The internal edge is intended for swimmer’s grip, while the external edge is indifferent and usually just straight cut for further floor laying, lawn or wooden decking.

The coping that covers the overflow side of the waterfall (vanity edge pool). The internal edge is intended for swimmer’s resting, while the outer edge is usually rounded or is consisted of small bumps and flat passages for most impressive water overflow.

This Coping profile is embossed which shows towards the pool an incomplete bullnose of 4cm thickness and to the outer side a lower tail of 2 cm thickness. It was, also, manufactured for skimmer pools, but it was less thick and wide than the Super Ideal Coping. We would characterize this coping as an affordable skimmer coping. Standard size is 610x250x40/20 mm & 302x250x40/20mm.

This Coping profile is embossed which shows towards the pool a demi bullnose of 3cm thickness and  to the outer side a lower tail of 1cm thickness. It was manufactured for skimmer pools. Besides its fame as the most elegant coping of the company, we could describe it as the lightest coping, as well, since its weight for a family size pool of 8×4 metres weighs less than 250 kilos! Standard size is 500x250x30/10 mm & 302x250x30/10mm.

The classic coping for overflow pools. This coping profile has sold thousands of meters around the Mediterranean countries. Its sole disadvantage is the dust in the holding grip, when there is no water overflowing. It provides easier support and rest to swimmers. Standard size is 610x310x30 mm & 302x310x30mm.

New coping for our company, being in production the last 4 years, having great sales in Cyprus. Provides high safety because of the non slippery strips. Standard size is 610x310x30 mm & 302x310x30mm.

The classic coping which is mostly preferred for over 10 years in England and Central Europe. For those who seek a flat coping with a Demi Bullnose, just for safety reasons. Standard size is 610x310x30 mm & 302x310x30mm.

This Coping having large sales in Austria the previous decade, with a rounded lower edge, as well, for those who prefer minimal style. Standard size is 610x310x30 mm & 302x310x30mm.

The Minimal Coping of our range of copings for those who don’t like curves. The slight bevel of 3mm on the upper edge and the finest bevel on the lower edge of 1mm, are considered necessary in order to avoid any accidents or even breakages of the very edge. Standard size is 610x310x30 mm & 302x310x30mm.

The Classic curved and narrow Grate of 3cm thickness and 19.5 cm width to be fitted over the 20cm wide channels. This grate has 26 fine and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm), ensures children’s little fingers safety. Like all our grates it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook. Standard size is 610x195x30 mm & 302x195x30mm.

The Classic curved Grate of 3cm thickness and 24.5 width cm to be fitted over the 25cm wide channels. This grate having 26 narrow and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm), ensures children’s little fingers safety. Like all our grates it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook. Standard size is 610x245x30 mm & 302x245x30mm.

The narrow Curved Grate with one central slot of 3cm thickness and 19.5cm width for 20cm wide channels. Excellent water drainage capacity due to its design is consisted of 2 layers of material, the upper and lower layer made of artificial marble, while the lower layer is having transverse drainage slots. This grate has underneath 26 slots, 11mm wide, per meter (1 slot every 4cm).  Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x195x30 mm & 302x195x30mm.

The Curved Grate with one central slot of 3cm thickness and 24.5cm width for 25cm wide channels. Excellent water drainage capacity due to its design, is consisted of 2 layers of material, the upper and lower layer made of artificial marble, while the lower layer is having transverse drainage slots. This grate has underneath 26 slots, 11mm wide, per meter (1 slot every 4cm).  Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x30 mm & 302x245x30mm.

The Curved Grate with the central slot and reinforced with INOX plate of 3cm thickness and 24.5cm width for 25cm wide channels. Made only of artificial marble and doubled with stainless steel support, which are subject to double modulation of both curving and slicing. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 600x245x31 mm.

The slim narrow Curved sandwich porcelain Grate, of 2.2cm thickness and 19.5cm width for 20cm wide channels. Having doubling plate made of porcelain and thus greater resistance, with 26 fine and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm) ensures children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x195x22 mm & 302x195x22mm.

The Curved sandwich Grate of 3,5cm thickness and 24.5cm width for 25cm channels. Having a doubling plate made of artificial marble and thus greater resistance, with 26 narrow and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm) ensures children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x35 mm & 302x245x35mm.

The Curved Grate with wide slots of 3cm thickness and 24.5cm width for 25cm wide channels. This grate has 26 slots, 11mm wide, per meter (1 slot every 4cm) and met 10 successful years of sales.  Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x30 mm & 302x245x30mm.

The Curved Grate with dense slots, of 3cm thickness and 24.5cm width for 25cm wide channels. This grate has 52 narrow slots per meter (1 slot every 2cm) and ensures children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x30 mm & 302x245x30mm.

The Curved sandwich Grate of 3cm thickness and 24.5cm width for 25cm wide channels. Double plated with artificial marble achieves greater resistance, Having 26 narrow and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm) ensures children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x30 mm & 302x245x30mm.

The slim narrow Curved sandwich Grate of 2.2cm thickness and 19.5cm width for 20cm wide channels. Having a doubling plate made of artificial marble and thus greater resistance, with 26 fine and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4 inches) ensures the children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x195x22 mm & 302x195x22mm.

The slim narrow Flat sandwich Grate made of porcelain, of 2.2cm thickness and 19.5cm width for 20cm wide channels.  Having a doubling plate made of porcelain and thus greater resistance, with 26 fine and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm) ensures children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x195x12 mm & 302x195x12mm.

The slim narrow Flat decorative Grate, of 1.2cm thickness and 19.5cm width for 20cm wide channels. With lessened resistance for decorative purposes, having  26 fine and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm) ensures the children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x195x12 mm & 302x195x12mm.

The Flat sandwich Grate, with 4 slots along, of 4cm thickness and 24.5cm width for 25cm wide channels.  Having  a doubling plate made of artificial marble and thus greater resistance, with 4 narrow and safe  slots along. Like all the grates of the company it is accompanied by special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x40 mm & 302x245x40mm.

The Curved sandwich Grate with 4 slots along, of 4cm thickness and 24.5cm width for channels 25cm wide.  Having doubling plate made of artificial marble and thus greater resistance, with 4 narrow slots along. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x40 mm & 302x245x40mm.

The Classic ftat Grate, of 3cm thickness and 24.5 width cm for channels 25cm wide. Having 26 narrow and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm) ensures children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x30 mm & 302x245x30mm.

The Classic Curved Grate doubled with stainless steel plate, of 3,1cm thickness and 24.5 cm width for channels 25cm wide. Having a stainless steel (INOX) doubling plate and thus greater resistance, with 26 narrow and safe slots per meter (1 slot every 4cm) ensures children’s safety. Like all the grates of the company it comes with special anti-shock tape and stainless steel lifting hook of the grate. Standard size is 610x245x21 mm & 302x245x21mm or 610x245x31 mm & 302x245x31mm for greater strength.

The new Modular Grate doubled with stainless steel plate (INOX) which is formed by jointing connected bars (modules). Bar size is 245 x 32 x 20 mm. These bars are assembled together with plastic joints. It comes with special anti-shock tape.

The marble grille that covers the water drainage channel. This channel is usually accessible for cleaning it, at regular intervals.

The perimetric piece of marble that covers the rim of any pool.

Usually a set of 3 marble pieces around an overflow pool. The piece closer to the water and covering the rim of the pool is called coping, the middle is called grate and the outer is the out lane. Rarely, the exterior piece might be missing and you may have an overflow set of 2 pieces.

The third piece of marble, in the outer perimeter of the overflow set, which is mainly used for the support of marble grate, adding aesthetic enhancement to the whole set.

The coping that covers the rim of an overflowing pool. Its interior edge is intended for the swimmer’s resting, while its exterior piece ends in a small step where the grate is placed.

The coping that covers the rim of a pool with low water level. Its interior edge is intended for the resting of the swimmer, while its exterior edge is irrelevant and usually it is straight cut for the flooring or any other decking surround.

A coping with 4 right angles of standard dimensions, usually 25-30cm width and of 50-61cm length

Coping with 2 curved edges alongside, specially cut by CNC machines (Calculated Numeric Control Machines) for coating specific curved parts of a pool. Usually, by having a length varying between 65 and 80cm, it covers successfully the rim of any free-shape pool.

A usually small size coping so that it follows a curve in broken lines. It concerns the cheapest decoration solution for a curved pool. The oblique line may be cut at the factory according to the drawing, or on site by the fitter. It Is proposed as a low-cost solution when having open curves with large radius.

Decorative Pool Stones may be, either, treated on site by the contractor, following instructions of factory, or, in the factory, during production, when ordered.

In both cases, the sealant materials used are, either, of  Italian origin, with every 2 years re-apply directive ,or, of Australian origin with 15 years warranty

Both waterproofing treatment and use of compacting liquid to a stone, may slow down the erosion of a stone from the effect of HCl, but, do not prevent it.

Yes there are! Granite, Quartzite, Artificial marbles and Quartz Artificial stones, not only ,are not affected by the use of HCl, but, can even be used as a cleaning agent for those stones!!

If the marble grate is seated well on adjacent bearing edges, there is no need for maintenance, since neither water, nor the sun affects it. It is recommended, though, once a year and every time the channel is cleaned, to check the correct mounting of the grate to the bearing edges. If necessary the anti-shock tape, named “Armaflex” that the company provides may be replaced.

At the beginning or the end of summer season/ intense use of the pool and only when exceptional damages occur.  It is wise to use a high pressure cleaner and some cleaner liquids that the company recommends

Granite, Quartzite and Artificial stones can be cleaned by even using acid cleaners without any problem. In all other cases DO NOT use acid cleaners. Ask us about.

The protection treatment of waterproofing prevents permanent stains to penetrate into the stone. Limits stains to the surface of the stone, where can be easily cleaned. In addition, many water types have many salts and sediments which are deposited to marble accessories and depending on the hardness of the water every now and then need to be removed. Protection and waterproofing does not mean no-stains. Protection and waterproofing means easy and painless cleaning.

HCl is responsible for the erosion of many stones, particularly, for  those of calcitic composition. In cases where the pH control is lost for a long time, or, someone tries to clean  marble surfaces by using HCl,  both cases result  to irreversible damages to the stones.

Although the marble pool accessories need less maintenance than anything else used, repeated waterproofing treatment is suggested when it is proven that protection has weakened.

First of all they offer maximum slip resistance to the copings-grates and to the deck of a swimming pool, as well. Channel safety with regards to any breakage, and small safer gaps relative to other materials, in order to prevent human injury to fingertips.

Salt water affects only sandstones, and, merely causes any wear to other stones. Thus, we do not recommend sandstone for decoration to salt water pools. In any case, there is a compacting enhancer that can protect a stone up to 15 years.

There are companies that offer 15years of guarantee for their waterproofing quality products, but, there are also lower cost protection products offered 2-3years of guarantee.

Waterproofing can be applied either at the factory at a cost, or, on site after installation, in order, to protect the joints between the accessories.

The pool’s water, the salts, and even salty water do not cause visible damages to marble accessories. Damages are caused only by low pH, if balance is lost for several days and drops significantly below the ideal neutral pH = 7.0. Damages may occur only to the natural calcite marbles, but, not to the quartz stones or to the artificial marbles.

Everyday dirt, salt water and acids erosion. The first one is solved by treating with waterproof agents the products and the second one by properly controlling  the  pool water’s pH.

Yes, artificial marbles and the quartz rocks such as granites are not affected by the low pH. They are so resistant to the use of acids that may even be cleaned with HCl (Hydrochloric Acid) occasionally.

The company submitted the stones to harsh bending resistance tests according to standard ELOT EN-12371: 2001 & ELOT EN-12372: 2006. After 48 freeze-thaw cycles was found that all the stones that the company uses for the decoration of of the pool  belong to Class 0, and, have a loss due to its resistance less than 20%, which is being set as limit for approving the use of stones in exterior environment.

However, the company does not recommend stones with differentiation > 10%, after 48 freeze-thaw cycles, thus excluding the use of  stones, like the Egyptian Golden Sunny, in countries  located in Northern Europe and Northern America.

Granite and artificial stones are not affected by the use even of HCl, even being used as a cleaner, but all the other marbles are sensitive and eroded by acidic environment having pH <6.0.

Since early 2012, the company has been testing every model of drain grate’s suitability in a special  machine. In order to pass the test, every model of grate, must drain without any fail, the amount of double portion of water that usually overflows in a normal pool when in full use, i.e. 2c.mtrs/hour/meter.

Recently the company submitted to stress tests all types of marble grate, according to international standard ELOT-1339: 2003, Stress is measured in Megapaskal MPa. In order to understand the results of these tests, consider as 1 Mpa durability the power of 10,2 Kg  per square centimeter (durability 1 MPa means resistance to the weight of 3 male adults,each weighing 75 Kgs, supported the 3 together on one sole).

The company proposes as a safety limit 10 people weight, in other words, resistance of 3,5 MPa for the most ‘weak’ grates, while there are models of grates with an average resistance of 20 MPa. Furthermore, even grates having resistance of 35 MPa may be constructed, upon request, to endure heavy duty vehicles.

Safety in use, durability, reasons of aesthetic excellence, to avoid diversity of color, reasons of respect to the environment, for a luxurious manufacture of a project with prestige, but, even for economical reasons.

The most important of all our concerns is our company’s Service offered to our Customers, After Sales. The company’s products are so new and innovative in the market that only our satisfied customers ensure our best advertising campaign. Without the help of our excited customers, our company would hardly manage to extend in 5 continents and 45 countries, considering that the decoration of a pool is an important issue, for anyone to risk the choice of such innovative materials.

By taking advantage of such opportunities to improve the company’s policy and  its products. Even as a good chance to reverse an unpleasant experience of a customer to customer’s enthusiasm, by undertaking all efforts to solve any kind of problem.

The international Tax Class of our products is H.S Code 68.02.91.00 and their certificate of Greek origin is provided by the local Chamber of Commerce.

Some of the most common descriptions of our products are the following:

Copings of Off-White marble Kavala, with dimensions 500x250x30mm, sandblasted, KVA2SB._Origin of Greece (H.S Code 68.02.91.00)

or

Drain Grate of Off-White marble Kavala, with dimensions 500x250x30mm, sandblasted, KV1BSB._Origin of Greece (H.S Code 68.02.91.00)

The main delivery term is FCA (Free Carrier) Epidaurus-Greece, in accordance with the International Commercial Chamber, Incoterms 2010. Term FCA (Free Carrier) means that we deliver goods on customers truck at our factory, custom cleared.

If customer requires we can also arrange the transportation and the insurance of goods destinated anywhere in the world, by charging the extra costs in final Invoice. Customer advises which risks must be covered and preferred deductible amount, as both affect significantly the insurance cost. Our customers usually prefer the amount of 500 Euros as an exemption.

It is recommended in all cases of delivery that the products should be covered during transportation from the factory to the customer address, against theft or damage. Our company, upon request, may arrange the insurance of the products on customer’s behalf, in cooperation with trusted underwriters.

Even though to our experience with exports, since 1989, we have not recorded any significant problems during deliveries, we always recommend to customers to proceed with insurance cover.

Appointment of representative for the receipt of goods, acknowledgment of his full contact details and complete information about the unloading facilities at delivery area, whether there is access of a large or small truck, availability of mechanical means i.e. forklift etc

The packaging of our products is very important. We use special protection materials such as wood, PU, ??PVC in order to deliver our products in perfect condition to the carrier. Upon customers request we take photos of the products before and during loading.

The largest pieces are placed in wooden boxes and perimeter protected by Styrofoam (PU) and nylon (PVC). The smaller dimension pieces such as modular grate, are placed in cardboard boxes and then in wooden boxes. In any country under specific regulations anti-insect import pallets are required (eg USA) then the company uses these with a small fee to its invoice.

When having received a written approval of the Proforma invoice and an advance payment of 30% of the total amount, or, when the customer has opened a L/C for the total value of the order.

Fulfillment of the payment  terms  as referred in the Proforma Invoice

The main delivery term is FCA (Free Carrier) Epidaurus- Greece, in accordance with the International Commercial Chamber, Incoterms 2010. Term FCA (Free Carrier) means that we deliver goods on customers truck at our factory, custom cleared.

If customer requires we can also arrange the transportation and the insurance of goods destinated anywhere in the world, by charging the extra costs in final Invoice. Customer advises which risks must be covered and preferred deductible amount, as both affect significantly the insurance cost. Our customers usually prefer the amount of 500 Euros as an exemption.

Payment in full (100% of the Proforma Invoice) before shipping goods, or, by opening L/C payable at sight with the Bank.

By Truck to Europe and by means of Container to the rest of the world. Full or Groupage (Partial Shipment) shipments in agreement with our company’s logistics department.

At customer’s own expense and responsibility either of customer’s, or of the company’s logistics department. Customer may arrange himself to send a carrier to the factory to collect the samples or he can provide his code with a courier service or may even prepay the transport cost of the samples to the company.

The answer is YES! It is a practise followed when a considerable transportation cost of samples is paid by the customer. The transportation cost of samples is temporarily paid by the consignee / customer and it is credited to the invoice of his next order.

It was noticed in the past that customers were asking for samples, provided for free, and sometimes they wouldn’t even bother collect them from the logistics company. That is the reason why we consider customer’s participation necessary.

Small samples, weighing up to 2 Kgs, are delivered without any charge, either a) at new customers’ first request, or b) to existing customers’ urgent sampling demand. However, it is  always proposed to our existing customers to receive any new samples along with the delivery of their orders

Samples at reasonable quantities are free of charge and are delivered at the factory in Epidaurus, Peloponnese. While at organized presentations of our products’ range in commercial showrooms, our company’s contribution to the cost, varies from case to case..

Proper surface preparation for bonding, and absolute necessary use of adhesive, No use of grout with cement which leaves a gap later on. While installing an overflow pool, a use of laser level monitor must be used for installation of all copings. The copings are calibrated, that ensures high accuracy dimensions, and only, improper fitting could lead to failure of installation.

The marble grate is seated on the coping and on the outer lane of the marble set. Therefore the placement of the grate is made at the final stage and it is advisable not to place the grates prior to completion of all construction works around the pool area.

The use of the elastic anti-shock tape (Armaflex) that the company supplies to the customer along with the grates, it is of great importance. In cases that Armaflex is not placed beneath the grates, we result to improper application of the grate, and, sometimes breaking.

The installation of our products must be carried out by an experienced team. Overflow pools require high specialization for the precise fitting of marble accessories.

We check if the imprinted plan has, effectively, being performed on site, as it is common the concrete walls built to differ from the original drawing.

It is advisable that the technician who will measure the template, also, is the person in charge to fit the copings, as well. The material used for templates should be hard enough so its shape remain intact. Large curves can be imprinted by numbered patterns, but the individual parts of the pattern should be shorted out only in a sole combination.

Recording important dimensions, i.e. geometric chord or radius, during measuring patterns, may prove particularly useful verification method for the implementation of the order. A draft sketch that imprints a free pool shape, and on which is recorded every template, is particularly necessary.

On each template should be clear which is the top and the bottom side, which side faces the pool water and how many centimetres of overhang must be calculated during implementation.

Before a pool plan is given for implementation, we must check if the mapping file is identical with the actual current state of the pool. Several times there are discrepancies between the digital recordings and the concrete walls of a pool, and, so a re-mapping of the built pool is necessary.

The layout of the pool and sections of the coping or the overflow are necessary.

In all cases the customer or his technical supervisor are responsible for measuring the project. The only exception is when the mapping of a project is carried out by our team using a Proliner Digitizer.

For a rectangular pool is necessary to measure internal length and width. These dimensions must be measured from the rim of the pool, so that the company may calculate the extra length required for the corners. So, for a rectangular pool a drawing is not necessary, but, only a reference i.e. 8x4mtrs or 10x5mtrs. For every pool of a different shape a scale plan is needed to be sent by Fax, PDF or DWG file. An AutoCAD in DWG file is a far better solution. For pools designed with straight segments and circular arcs, drawings of simpler PDF forms or even printed in paper are sufficient.

If all sides of a pool are having the same intersection the information could be given orally, either a) for skimmer pools by reporting about the wall that has to be coated and the necessary overhang, i.e. 20cm wall + 3cm overhang, or b) for overflow pools with additional reporting  about the channel and the external wall, i.e. 25cm wall + 3cm overhang, Channel 20cm wide and width clearance for the 3rd exterior piece. Apparently a printout or PDF file is better than a description, and, a much better solution can be a digital printout from DWG AutoCAD file.

Almost, any stone can be used for swimming pools, no matter how sensitive some of them may be, like, sandstone and soft limestone, but, only, after been processed properly.

Water, does not do any harm, to stones. Any rock remains intact in the sea, but, it will wear off from mechanical friction (waves). Water is not corrosive itself. Instead, hydrochloric acid HCL is what erodes the rocks into a pool. When pH control is lost in the pool water, then the environment turns extremely acidic and then rock is eroded, as rock contains Ca (Calcium). Erosion of copings of  3cm thickness, may last between 1 week to 3 years, and this depends how low pH reaches, and, for how long this condition lasts. However, there are rocks such as granite, quartz and reconstructed marble, which are non-sensitive to acidic environment and low pH.

A marble coping can last for centuries without any problem, if it is not affected by HCl. As the rocks of the sea exist eternally in their place, with minimal wear from the waves, so do natural or artificial stones, which remain intact in their place, until we decide to replace them or to renovate the swimming pool. A marble coping can last for centuries without any problem, if it is not affected by HCl. As the rocks of the sea exist eternally in their place, with minimal wear from the waves, so do natural or artificial stones, which remain intact in their place, until we decide to replace them or to renovate the swimming pool.

A plastic grate may last for 2 to 10 years, depending on the quality of the material and its resistance to direct sunlight. A drain grate can break only if it is not installed properly.

A large part of human culture has been sculpted and carved on stones. The use of decorative stones for the decoration of a swimming pool undoubtedly excels aesthetically over the use of cement, ceramic or plastic replicas. Also marble is the only material that can cover the rim and the overflow channel of a free-shaped swimming pool with large pieces and minimum seams. No other material may be manufactured with such absolute precision, to be fitted to a free-shaped swimming pool, without taking into consideration the costs of molds for casting any of the other alternative materials.

The trend in modern architecture and decoration, over the last years, is to combine fewer materials and colors in construction and decoration. Marble itself is a material that may be used inside, around and outside the swimming pool. Just imagine a swimming pool having glass mosaic inside, a ceramic covered rim perimeter around, a plastic grate over the overflow channel, and tiles of granite or porcelain of similar color over the deck surround of the swimming pool. Now, picture the same swimming pool, lined on the inside, with a coping around the rim, with a grate in the overflow channel and having coated the surround with the same natural or artificial decorative stone. The uniqueness of this aesthetic achievement is fabulous. The stones are not just surface coatings; they have thickness and are sculpted to any form and shape.

Imagine how many meters of plastic grate you will have to change in a swimming pool during its life circle of 20-30 years. On the other hand natural decorative stones can easily be re freshened whether they are polished or having a rough non-slippery surface. The only reason to reject them is our mood for aesthetic renewal of an area, but also in this case the cycle of surface erosion and weathering has no difference to the ravages of time which a rock in nature undergoes. Rejected decorative stones can be used for the filling up of a sloped area. But even direct rejection into the environment doesn’t cause such pollution as cement materials do.

Since ancient Athens, marble was considered as one of the most luxurious decorative construction material. Even now that time has changed and technology has evolved, the formulation and processing of marble still has a relatively high cost. The one-piece curved pieces of marble, especially those manufactured for a particular project, with their minimal seams, on one hand, and the thickness and rigidity of marble, on the other, are purely characterizing the marble projects as luxury.

Initially, the choice of marble for the decoration of a swimming pool may be proven between 10% and 150% more expensive, than the use of conventional materials such as plastics, ceramics or cement. But in the long run of 20-years when the plastic grates will have to be changed at least 5-6 times and the copings at least 1-2 times, it is proved that choosing a resistant stone through time, is the most economical choice.