It’s very difficult to decide if one should or shouldn’t build a pool in the house. It’s difficult because it’s easy to let oneself go with this ideal little toy without understanding the realities, complexities and cost of such.
If you decide to build a pool, the procedure would be more or less as follows. First, you need an architectural design to look at size, shape, depth, etc. It can be as convoluted or straight-forward as one desires. Once the design has been established, then you need to look at structural elements. A soil mechanics study should be carried out, especially in areas near beaches. The terrain is very variable near the coast and you’ll find different consistencies, qualities and compaction. At least a superficial look at the terrain is important. You can get at least a physical look by making a superficial dig to see what’s really below. There are some cases in which the studies don’t coincide with reality, probably due to a small number few samples analyzed. The pool must be above the aquifer so as to avoid any physico-chemical complications at the bottom of the pool.
The location of the pool must include a machinery room for the pump, filter and heater (as the case may be). Another important factor is the idstance from the house’s main drainage system and of course the water level of the pool. Rain water must be removed by gravity by tubing from the overflow area. Some architects prefer to have this machinery room hidden for aesthetic reasons and build it underground. However, having it above ground is a better idea so that maintenance is easier and the machines are more accesible for repair. Additionally, natural ventilation gives the parts a longer life span. In any case, if above graound, it can be hidden with plants and the like to make it more aesthetic while maintaining the ease of operation.
Once the structure has been designed, the digging begins. It’s easier to do it mechanically, since it saves time. You can rent the equipment per day and it should be finished in a couple of days. The levels of the dig should be at least 15” lower than the bottom, since a 7“ gravel base has to be put down first. This allows for drainage of excessive rainwater. Above this layer, a layer of concrete is poured to sustain the steel structure that will make the pool’s grill. This grill must include pumping and circulatin piping for the pool. This tubing will then be is then covered with concrete to make up the pools’ tub or body. This “tub” will have a slope that goes towards the drain. A monolithic pour is best; in other words, done in one piece including the sides or walls of the pool. You must use high resistance concrete and it should include a speed drier and waterproofing. This means that you have to prepare the additional tubing required for the pool: directional water injectors, an overflow container above the upper limit, cleaners that absorb and recycle the water (located at the edge of the pool that receives the greatest air current, so that it’ll ‘sweep’ the surface of leaves and bits of garbage and lead them towards the cleaner). Light and reflectors required need to be installed. They should always be low voltage; never at 110 V. On the walkway around the pool, include venturis that allow for air intake and give the bubbles to the jets, similar to what happens in a jacuzzi. These walkways are usually covered with Venetian surfaces or tile, preferably with slip-proof characteristics to avoid accidents.
The machinery room includes a valve system to open and close water circulation. Water not only circulates by suction, but by a retro-wash system that cleans the silicon sand-based filter and expels the water towards the drainage system. To achieve optimal function, avoid the use of sunscreens or oils since they contaminate the water and make the filters work overtime.
There are pools that include a jacuzzi-like system. In this case, the water has to be warmer and have water jets for massage. Other pools may have the infinite system, which just means that they are horizontal towards the ocean and spill out.
Pools require maintenance, chlorine and a choker when they start to generate biodegradable matter. Acidity levels have to be checked and controlled with alcaline substances. They should be swept frequently with a bottom sweeper to avoid build-up that could generate bacterial growth. You can use air bubble covers that maintain the temperature and protect the pool from garbage.
This little toy requires a monthly maintenance budget. You need to be fully aware of the operating costs and there are various options for this type of service. You especially need to be aware of the costs if you enjoy the frequent company of friends and family members around the pool on hot days. All good things come at a cost and this is certainly no exception.
By Miguel Angel Vazquez
