Masonry Magazine May 1967 Page. 31
April, 1967
An information series from National Concrete Masonry Association
NCMA TEK 8
© 1967, National Concrete Masonry Association
Concrete Masonry Swimming Pools
The growth of available leisure time has resulted in an increasing load on public recreational services and a corresponding demand for private facilities. Highly responsive to this need has been the swimming pool industry, which has expanded in a decade to the point where it seeks to establish the suburban swimming pool as firmly as the second automobile. This bulletin presents basic information for the homeowner or small builder who wishes to join this trend with an attractive, economical, and durable structure of quality concrete masonry.
All aspects of pool construction will be mentioned; however, only the building of the reinforced concrete masonry walls with all cells grout-filled will be detailed. Use of high quality concrete block walls affords the advantages of low first cost, long-term endurance, pre-shrunk stability against cracking, easy handling by one man if necessary, and local availability.
Pre-Construction Considerations
Prior to removing the first shovelful of dirt, the homeowner should (1) stake out the proposed site, visualizing the pool itself, the walkways and patios, access to toilet and dressing facilities, and the view from the house and adjoining properties. (2) Determine the method of tax assessment, requirements for building permits, requirements for professional architectural or engineering services, zoning regulations, plumbing, electrical, and health regulations, water use restrictions, and fencing requirements. (3) Study accessory catalogs so provisions for the desired fittings can be made during construction, avoiding difficult and costly modifications later. Figure 1 shows many of the details involved in a satisfactory pool design. The pool builder can benefit by the experience and knowledge of other pool owners, public library services, and information offered by National Swimming Pool Institute, 2000 K Street, N. W., Washington, D.C.
WALL CONSTRUCTION Materials
Masonry Units Because of the severe exposure to water, chemicals, and possible freezing, only high quality concrete block that meets the American Society of Testing and Materials Spec.
Fig. 1 Elements of Satisfactory Pool Layout
Fencing of decorative screen block provides privacy and shelter from prevailing winds, as well as forming part of protective fence. Shrubbery can be used for screening, but trees should be avoided, as they drop leaves, insects, and sap into the pool area.
Pool should be entirely enclosed by fencing, with single entrance located where homeowner can control access.
Rectangular shape for most economical construction and to facilitate swimming contests.
Ladder located away from diving board to reduce collison danger.
Minimum depth of water 8 feet, with a low diving board.
Floodlighting at a distance to keep insects out of the pool area.
Maximum sunlight on pool area.
Pool oriented with diving board on south or west end to prevent sun-blinding of diver.
Minimum depth of water 3 feet. If a more shallow depth is required, construct a separate wading pool.
Final pool elevation several feet above existing ground for disposal of excavated material and to provide slopes for keeping pool clean.
Maximum walkway width increases theoretical pool capacity by providing area for sunbathing and playing, and aids pool cleanliness.
Walkway of nonabsorbent, nonslip material, sloping to carry away pool splash-over, rain, and debris.
Minimum water surface 27 sq. ft. deep and 10 sq. ft. shallow per user, with 2/3 of users in pool simultaneously. Absolute minimum: 12 x 20 ft. for swimming or diving: 16x40 ft. for both.
Prior to construction, local health, building, and plumbing departments must be consulted for applicable regulations. Plans for public pools must be professionally prepared and state approved because of the danger of spreading infectuous disease through polluted water. Even the smallest pools benefit from the services of an experienced engineer or architect.