| Pools of steel: The advantages |
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The stainless steel pool frame is designed to be self-supporting and replaces a load-bearing structure of watertight concrete comprising plaster, an insulating layer, ceramic cladding, and joint materials.
If the construction site is prepared properly, a typical stainless steel pool, with a surface area of approximately 604 m2 (6500 sf), will take six to eight weeks to install. Only a short break is required to pour the concrete foundation under the pool walls. The durability of a stainless steel pool is a direct result of the mechanical strength of the sheet thickness used for the walls 2.5 mm (0.1 in.) and floor 1.5 mm (0.06 in.). In the case of any damage, the steel can be repaired by welding and grinding.
Further, stainless steel pools are completely customizable, whereas they can be easily modified or outfitted with various accessories. All components, their parts, and plumbing connections are welded to the pool shell, making them leak- and crack-proof.
According to some aquatic facility operators, despite the higher costs of using stainless steel, operating and maintenance costs can be lower than a standard concrete pool. It should be noted, however, some stainless steel pool projects, depending on the condition of the foundation and overall construction readiness, are less costly to install than other conventional pool designs.
Maintenance made easy
Efficiency and profitability of each aquatic facility does not only depend on the materials used to build the pool, but also the overall quality of construction, and cost of labour. This should also take into account the cost to operate the facility, including electricity, water, chemicals, equipment, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems (especially for indoor pools). These costs can also be influenced by the use of alternative energy sources and whether or not the pool is covered when it is not being used. These methods are not always the cheapest solution, but they can contribute significantly to reducing energy and heating costs.
In most cases, operational costs for outdoor stainless steel pools can be significantly lower than other pool types. They do not need to be painted, coated with an epoxy, or require tile repairs. Further, thanks to the smooth surface, it is unlikely for mould or algae to form, which also reduces maintenance and chemical usage.
In fact, when it comes to winterizing an outdoor stainless steel pool, the water level only needs to be lowered by roughly 300 mm (11.8 in.), as there is no need for crumple zones (structural areas designed to absorb energy) to avoid damage to the pool surface and/or structure from ice expansion. The pool is simply allowed to freeze. There is no need to winterize (chemically treat) the water either.
Finally, when spring arrives, the pool is drained (as the water is not suitable for swimming) and the pool walls, floor, and overflow troughs are washed using a pressure cleaner before it is refilled.
Jakub Misiarz is the project manager for Berndorf Bäderbau s.r.o., in Bystrice, Czech Republic, which is represented in Canada by Stainless Steel Pool & Spa in Whistler, B.C. He has 13 years of experience in the stainless steel pool industry. Misiarz can be reached via e-mail at j.misiarz@berndorf-bazeny.cz.
