Layout
The benefits of having a landscape drawing to work from, however basic it is, is reviewed. This drawing is used to strategically plan the project and clearly demonstrate things like access routes, plumbing schematics, and staging areas. Finally, the most effective methods for transferring a 2D pool layout onto the ground are presented, while the different approaches required for straight-line, rectangular vessels, and freeform, radius-based pools are all presented. Suggestions for elevation management, as well as client sign-offs are also given at this stage.
Excavation
The importance of clear communication with all parties, field staff, clients, and neighbours, at this stage of the project is stressed. Potential pitfalls (e.g. what to do when bad soils are encountered) and the different excavation requirements each type of pool demands are also addressed.
Structures
This segment of the course takes a closer look at how each pool type (e.g. vinyl, fibreglass, or shotcrete/gunite) is built. Best practices and important considerations for each unique situation are discussed in detail.
Plumbing
Pool hydraulics is covered again in this second course, as this vital stage requires the installer’s utmost attention. Discussions start with planning the plumbing approach before any work is done, taking into consideration how the pipes should travel underground, and how they should be arranged to ensure a neat and user-friendly mechanical system layout.
Coping and decking
This section looks at a number of considerations when selecting from the numerous coping options available for different pool types. It also explains how to achieve desired looks and what steps to take to ensure a long-lasting deck.
Tile and interior finishes
As this sub-topic specifically relates to shotcrete/gunite pools, it is mostly a cursory discussion. However, it does help to emphasize the importance of proper tile installation in freeze-thaw environments, as well as how to get the homeowner involved in the after installation care of marbelite. Other pool interior finishes such as paint and thermoplastic options are also covered.
Handover and follow-up
This section provides a brief summation of the PHTCC’s ‘Pool Handover Course,’ and illustrates some best practices for transitioning the pool from the installer to the homeowner. It explains the procedures of a complete system explanation meeting, along with the key parts of any good maintenance manual. Suggestions are also offered on how to use this all-important “moment of truth” to create customers for life.
Similar to the introductory class, the second course also contains lots of information packed into a three-hour session. Indeed, any one of these topics could lend itself to an individual course of study, but as was the case with the ‘Pool Installation 101’ short course, the true value was directly related to the spontaneous and enthusiastic contributions provided by all those in attendance. The session may have ended after three hours, but many participants stayed long after the session had ended to ask questions, share insights, or gain clarification on something that was new to them.
A crowning achievement
Regardless of one’s involvement in the pool industry, whether a builder, service provider, manufacturer, dealer, lifeguard, or homeowner, everyone benefits when the industry as a whole strives to be better, more professional, and more competent. The participation in, and the resulting benefits of redeveloping these two short courses is just one small example of how much the industry is interested in training and certification programs.
By simply getting a group of people together who all share a common curiosity about pool installations, and giving them a guided forum in which to learn, share knowledge, and ask questions, a palpable spark of excitement is created. Nothing could be better for the future of the pool industry than a little bit of excitement.
Melissa Brown, P.Eng., MBA, is a co-owner of BonaVista Pools Ltd., in Toronto, a family-run, second-generation company her father Bob Brown started in 1969. She is a professional engineer who loves being in the field with her crew building pools. With more than 20 years’ experience, along with Genesis Design Group training, Brown runs the company’s design/build division. She can be reached via e-mail at melissa@bonavistapools.com.
Peter Brown, BBA Hons, is a co-owner of BonaVista Pools Ltd. He has been responsible for a number of areas within the business, including the construction supervision of more than 450 projects. With more than 20 years’ experience, along with his business education and Genesis Design Group training, he looks to refine the vision that has guided the company for the last 49 years. He can be reached via e-mail at peter@bonavistapools.com.
