annb1997 - Yes, that is part of the reason I'm doing this project. The entire area will be lowered, re-graded and some drains installed (the garden edge is kind of temporarily in place for now, got a great deal on the plants so they had to go in). It's a bigger job than anticipated as it also means the air conditioners (x3) need to be de-commossioned and re-installed at the new levels. John, I like the idea with regard to the tank, but we get allot of bitey critters and I don't really want to give them anymore areas to hide out in.

How exciting renovating your kitchen. Making it your own. Changing the old for the new. Learning all about stone and how you can use it in the home. So much to learn, so much choice, so many different types of stone for benchtops on the market. The Marble Man specialise in repairs polishing and sealing stone with 27 years experience working with all stone - natural and manmade - can assist you with information on stone. Take the time to learn about stone - www.themarbleman.com.au. Give The Marble Man technicians a call 1300 627 626. We can advise you on Natural marble, granite, limestone, travertine and engineered stone - such as those manufactured and sold by various brands. All produce outstanding, high quality stone to be used for kitchen benchtops, bathroom vanities and other uses in the home or commercial environment. It is important to look after stone. All stone for benchtops, bar tops, vanity units and tables require regular care to keep them looking clean and attractive. Some natural stone benchtops are porous and if not sealed can be susceptible to staining. The Marble Man specialises in removing stains from kitchen benchtops, bathroom vanities, bar tops and tables using a poultice or special cleaning products. Our trained technicians will assess your stone to determine the level of cleaning it requires and recommend the right products to keep your stone benchtops looking like new. Give The Marble Man technicians a call 1300 627 626. Take the time to learn about stone - www.themarbleman.com.au.

Hi Paul - making the choice of "which stone" is not just colour - have a look at https://themarbleman.com.au/tips-for-choosing-your-stone/ Our core business is the restoration, polishing, repairs and sealing stone. With over 27yr experience The Marble Man has seen stone used and abused in many ways. Take the time to research stone and how it responds to humans, life and the way we live. We're happy to talk stone - 1300 627 626

Just because your builder doesn't normally use a material doesn't mean it shouldn't be used. Builders often like to only use what they are used to and what they know will work well as they have used it on a previous job. Just make sure that your tile selection has a suitable edge for a pool, often called a coping tile, which is sometimes rounded and thicker. A standard square edge tile risks chipping if the square edge is exposed at the edge of the pool. Do your research, find some examples in real life and go with the best solution for the issue, which is not necessarily what your builder wants. Too often I meet unhappy homeowners who wanted one thing and their builder bullied them into something else (often as it was easier for the builder to install) to their long term regret. As long as your have researched it, and understand the issues so you can make an informed decision. After the job is finished your builder will probably never see your pool again, whereas you will see it every day. Best of luck, Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls/Dr Retro Virtual Visits