For example, if the deck is not properly waterproofed, the water left by swimmers exiting the pool, by splashes, or due to cleaning processes, can penetrate the floor and infiltrate the substrate, causing future maintenance issues to the structure. This risk is frequently underestimated by construction companies. Often, after the first few months, the result is to have water in the deck that does not drain properly. Over time, in addition to making it less appealing, this water will infiltrate the structure and deteriorate the pool. Using reinforced PVC to waterproof the entire deck avoids all this because it guarantees complete waterproofing of the deck. When combined with a compatible gutter system, it ensures a seamless waterproofing from the pool to the deck. Further, the slip-resistant PVC ensures all safety requirements in all areas of the wet-zone are met.
Unlike concrete decks, the reinforced PVC finish for pool and spa decks can be installed in almost any temperature. In fact, reinforced PVC eliminates the common cracking problems in concrete that occur with freeze-thaw weather. In addition, the installation of the PVC pool deck takes far less time than traditional decking materials. If installed over existing concrete, the installation requires the following steps:
- Filling any cracks or holes in the surface.
- Levelling and cleaning the surface.
- Applying glue.
- Applying an antimicrobial felt.
- Laying down and welding together the reinforced PVC.
Aquatic facilities also benefit from the shorter installation time required, as reinforced PVC does not require waiting on ideal weather or the necessary time required for drying paint and concrete. The only downtime is if the surface requires levelling, in which case a levelling material is poured prior to the installation of the reinforced PVC. The installation time is similar to welding for the pool. For instance, a 6.1- x 6.1-m (20- x 20-ft) area can be lined and welded in a few hours when using a robotic welder.
Similar to the installation of reinforced PVC on pool interiors, reinforced PVC for pool decks is also rolled out and welded together on-site to ensure an accurate, smooth fit to the shape of the deck. The process does require some skill, but many suppliers provide on-site training and initial installation assistance to pool professionals who are just getting started. Once trained, reinforced PVC can be installed year-round on indoor pools and even in cooler climates, such as late fall and early spring.
Reinforced PVC on the rise
The awareness of reinforced PVC for pool interiors and pool decks is definitely on the rise, especially among commercial aquatics facilities. In fact, many architects and aquatic consultants are now starting to require the use of reinforced PVC in high-rises or anywhere the waterproofing of the pool must be guaranteed. In general, it is becoming more common for facility managers to approach their trusted pool professional to provide a reinforced PVC solution after performing their own research. As a result, pool professionals are finding it even easier to suggest, sell, and install reinforced PVC as a pool interior or as a way to renovate a pool deck on commercial pools and other aquatic facilities.
Author
Matthew Sands is a sales engineer for Renolit, a manufacturer of plastics-based construction products, and weld-in-place, reinforced PVC systems for swimming pools and decks, with U.S. headquarters in LaPorte, Ind. He has more than a decade of experience in the construction renovation sector of the company.
