Using component systems to build caves and grottos

Adding slides, staircases, and other fun features

“It’s important to realize consumers are going to spend as much time sitting around the pool as they will be swimming in it; therefore, being able to create a complete backyard retreat is key to making the customer happy,” says MacGillivray.

A cave/grotto water feature can create a tranquil, natural setting around any pool. Most consumers who add caves/grottos have children or grandchildren, so they are looking for a feature that is not only fun, but also esthetically pleasing. Children immediately want to play under, jump off of, or slide down these water features, the latter component requiring the addition of a slide and the construction of a staircase.

Manufacturers are aware of this need so they offer component systems that allow builders to install modular rock staircases to incorporate slides into the cave/grotto feature. These staircases can often be built in one day, while a staircase constructed of natural boulders would generally take three to four days to install. The labour savings alone makes component systems a price-competitive option in the poolside hardscaping marketplace.

Today’s builders can offer a cave/grotto with a waterslide staircase for $2,000 to $3,000 versus $6,000 to $8,000 for an elaborate design simply by controlling the cost of the rock structure. Prior to component systems, these projects could easily go beyond their original quotes because of the unpredictable nature of using real boulders. The trend towards adding cave/grotto water features on pools should be embraced now that trained builders can add these easily to install component systems to their repertoire.

Editor’s note: All figures are in U.S. dollars.

Bruce Riley is the managing director of RicoRock Inc., makers of cast-concrete rock, including component systems for building caves/grottos, waterfalls, and waterslide products for use in pool applications. Riley focuses on developing new products and managing commercial installations. He built rock-type pools in southern California for 25 years and now uses this experience to design standard waterfall kits for the company. He can be reached via e-mail at bruce@ricorock.com.