Using component systems to build caves and grottos

Esthetics and functionality

Not only is it important that the finished look of the cave/grotto can be predicted, but it is also critical that the water flowing over the rock feature (waterfall) actually circulates back into the pool. If it does not, the water can get underneath the waterfall and cause problems.

Many waterfalls built of natural stone have seepage problems because the bond between the stones and the mortar fails. Before the availability of component cave/grotto waterfall systems it was hard to ensure water would flow back into the pool after pouring over a mass of natural boulders due to the difficulty of placing the stones in a configuration that would force the water to go in a predetermined direction.

Water takes the path of least resistance, so every angle and crevice can potentially cause problems exponentially. Every natural boulder is unique; therefore, it is impossible to predict the outcome of the water flow. In contrast, all component systems have been tested and designed to ensure the water flows exactly as predicted, assuming the builder follows the installation instructions correctly.

Weight

Caves/grottos are an attractive poolside feature; however, when constructed out of natural boulders, they can be extremely heavy. Putting a large amount of weight on the edge of a pool can compress the ground and settle the entire pool. On the other hand, component systems are roughly one-fifth the weight of natural stone and are designed with a weight distribution per metre/foot that takes the pool into consideration.

Time

All pool builders and renovators know the importance of being able to determine exactly how much time it will take to execute each element of a particular job—not only to provide an accurate quote on the project, but also for planning and scheduling purposes.

“Building (water features) with natural stone can be unpredictable,” says MacGillivray. “A builder can spend all day arranging the natural boulders and then have the consumer come home to say they would like to see them arranged differently.

“It’s too much like artwork, too unpredictable, and the labour costs can quickly get out of control.”

When installing component systems, a crew of four workers can arrange everything in roughly half to a full-day.

“Of course a big cave/grotto job, with misters and a waterslide, can take approximately three weeks to complete,” says MacGillivray.

Training

Training is imperative to successfully building cave/grotto water features; therefore, partnering with a supplier that offers installer training can be important, as there are some tips and tricks that can make the builder’s job easier and more cost-effective.

“We started working with component systems almost 15 years ago,” says MacGillivray. “The way we build them today is different than how we did it when we first started. Experience is important to being an effective cave/grotto water feature builder.”

Most manufacturers are happy to provide their expertise. That said, new installers can count on the manufacturer to supply on-the-job technical support for first-time installations.