By Gary Thibault
Like any renovation project, the installation of a retractable enclosure requires adaptability to site conditions and customer desires. Size and design can vary considerably and customization is key. Of course, building code requirements must also be respected.
Site-specific engineering should be available in order to obtain the proper building permits. More specifically, this includes compliance with local snow and wind loads, which vary from area to area.
In most instances, a ‘standard’ installation should require no more than one week for the actual structure to be erected. Access to the site and other minor difficulties can delay construction, but project completion should still be rather quick with minimal disruption.
A good foundation
The first and most important issue, especially on a renovation project, is dealing with the enclosure’s foundation. The tracks on which it will rest and move must be level, otherwise the structure will bind.
Anchoring the structure to a concrete slab is ideal; however, if an interlocking deck surrounds the swimming pool, a line of bricks can be removed to make space for a concrete beam to be poured. This allows the enclosure to be properly secured to the deck using 102-mm (4-in.) lag bolts. Tracks can also be anchored to a deck structure, as long as it is properly supported by piers.
On a standard project, site preparation is minimal and can be included in the overall installation price. However, there are instances where building code requirements will call for more substantial work.
One recent renovation project, for example, required the installation of a 21 x 11.6-m (68 x 38-ft) enclosure, which would house a swimming pool and deck that were being remodelled. Due to the site’s proximity to a ravine and the size of the enclosure, retaining walls, which included the installation of 46 helio anchors. Helio anchors are steel rods with a large flange at the bottom like a cork screw. They are designed to replace concrete piers to support structures. In this case these anchors were screwed down 45 feet in order to reach the proper undisturbed soil and ensure a solid foundation to support a steel frame that would hold the concrete foundation for the enclosure.
When new infrastructure is being installed, as it was on this project, an in-floor heating system can also be included, along with the rebar and concrete during site preparation.
