The little things that make an installation shine

EQUIPMENT PAD DETAILS

The equipment pad is an often neglected area of swimming pool design. High-profile projects are sometimes marred by incredibly inept mechanical pad installations, which become a nightmare for service professionals. However, by putting together a detailed plan, using computer-aided design (CAD) and 3-D renderings, it allows plumbers to install a professional, mechanically correct equipment pad where everything is neat, plumb, square and labelled. The plan should include details for the following equipment pad elements: • electrical panels; • automation equipment; • irrigation system; • gas lines; • lighting panels; • drainage; • exhaust vents; • equipment room doors/windows; • bonding lugs; • sump wells; and • mechanical equipment.When working on indoor pool projects, this situation is often exasperated. Builders are often left with very little space as none of the mechanical equipment is detailed on the plan. Space for indoor pool equipment rooms are assigned on a premium basis. It should be kept in mind, however, a highly detailed mechanical room design not only looks professional and makes service a breeze, but is also easier to construct.

Details in design

Excellence in design will sell the project and demonstrate the company’s expertise, commitment to detail and professionalism. A poorly designed project, combined with a low-end presentation, will drive the client to the competition. As mentioned previously, there are several site considerations (e.g. sun patterns, shade, tree cover, etc.) along with environmental concerns (e.g. prevailing winds, microclimates, etc.), which all factor into the basic design. However, some design considerations are in response to specific client concerns, existing architectural features, and particular requests.

Considering safety

For clients who are extremely concerned about the safety aspect of installing a body of water adjacent to their home, it becomes important to discuss various safety and precautionary details as well. For instance, safety covers, full-fence enclosures, alarms, and video monitoring are integral to the finished design.

Vantage points from the home’s interior and exterior also become critical for families with young children. One of the benefits of using a 3-D design program is it allows the client to view the yard from all angles, preventing or minimizing blind spots.

Co-ordinating the design

The home’s architecture will often dictate initial design considerations. Therefore, the traditional freeform pool with a waterfall comprising a pile of rocks will never suit a modern, contemporary-styled home.

Identifying the style of architecture will aid in creating the initial design concept as its style should flow from the home’s interior to the exterior yard. A detail designer will be extremely helpful during this phase of the design. They will assist with colour and tile selection, planter locations, and co-ordinating design elements. A competent detail designer can make a large impact on how the finished project looks and feels, and are well worth the client’s time and financial commitment.

Provide guidance

The client’s initial perception and wish list are often dictated by the projects of their neighbours, friends or even relatives. In this case, the designer/builder’s job is to guide the client in the appropriate direction, while still making sure the design appeals to their desires and needs. This design stage can prove to be a difficult balancing act, trying to accommodate all of the existing parameters while still giving the client an original, well-planned, top-notch project.