Versatile pool design

Press, 16 September 1976, Page 13

Versatile pool design

The methods of construction of swimming pools are as varied as the limitations of materials and location allow. These vary from a semi-permanent plasticised pool to yre-fabricated construction and ornate chromium and tile structures costing many thousands of dollars. Of the more flexible types of construction is one devised by a consulting engineer which permits the erection of prefabricated wall panels over an area of previously prepared concrete flooring. The advantage of this method of installation is that it allows for pool placement in steeply contoured or difficult to get at areas such as steep hillsides, terraced sections and areas that have a high water table. With the use of prefabricated concrete wall panels the messy business of pouring large quantities of concrete into curved boxing is eliminated. Another advantage of unit construction is the freedom to design a pool of a size and shape completely in keeping with the area selected for its site. The first job is to excavate and put down a blinding layer (the requirement for the average-sized pool is 2Ayds. of concrete). From this, the shape of the pool can be marked out in crayon or other marking material. One of the advantages of a pre-cast pool is the speed at which it takes shape. For example, a kidneyshaped pool of average size

for an urban section would require 22 panels. These would take between six to eight hours to erect. The reinforced panels that make up the walls of the pool are each held together by four large bolts with waterproof sealants down the joint. Each panel is easily adjustable, and they can be raised or lowered ensuring that the wall is absolutely level before the final floor slab is poured. After the walls are erected, the main jobs r emaining are the floor finishing, which requires the laying of steel mesh and a trowelled concrete finish, and back-filling between walls. The panel around the floor where it meets the wall is then sealed. This is a relatively simply task. The wall joints are finished with a mixture of cement and water and a special adhesive to prevent flaking. This material is also used to build the perimeter around the bottom of the wall. Finishing items such as 12v underwater lights and the fitting of the filter require careful attention to detail. As the lines are totally immersed, careful sealing of the backs and wiring tube is essential. The specially designed filter is placed in a control box about 4ft by 3in deep and 18in in diameter. This control box contains the whole system, including pump control valves and switch gear for lights, motor and heating, so that they are out of sight but accessible.