Does anybody have any questions?
Swimming pool installations always come with a variety of questions. Who will be using the pool? Are steps necessary? Is a ramp required for easy access? Are water features being considered? The response to these questions may have bearing on the pool’s final shape and design. The questions should not stop here, however. Concrete swimming pool surround installers should ask similar questions with regards to the pool deck as well. Why? The pool deck will likely see a lot of traffic, it will often accommodate an array of patio furniture and a variety of backyard accessories, and thus it will take a lot of abuse. The pool deck is the hub for backyard activity and should be easy to care for to eliminate time spent versus time enjoyed. Concrete swimming pool surrounds can also be installed to provide a non-slip, easy-to-clean surface, which is integral to all aspects of safety. Therefore, education is important with respect to installation quality and versatility as a concrete deck not only adds purpose to the swimming pool, but also value to the homeowner’s property.
It takes craftsmanship, patience, and practice to install a concrete swimming pool surround that fulfils the client’s desired outcome. That said, one of the most common complaints from homeowners is cracking. Concrete is a molecular building material, which shrinks during the drying process; therefore, it is important to include pre-determined cut joints and/or expansion joints in the design. Minor hairline cracks in a properly designed and engineered slab should not be considered a faulty installation.
For some, cracks add to the natural beauty of concrete’s aging process; however, to increase a concrete deck’s performance, saw cuts allow the concrete to expand and contract as temperatures fluctuate. Saw cuts create a weakness point, which relieves the stresses built up due to shrinkage. Further, this allows the concrete to be poured in large panels, thus eliminating point-load settlement (e.g. from cabanas, hot tubs, etc.), while at the same time allowing surface runoff.
Experience necessary
The durability and structural integrity of concrete outweighs the minor negative points. Architectural concrete swimming pool surrounds require little maintenance and eliminate the need for the homeowner to pull weeds, thus allowing them to spend more time with family in and around the pool.
When a project begins, it should be given the utmost attention to detail—from preparation to the final finished product. Licensed installers should also ensure the proper specifications are followed (e.g. depth of granular required and the thickness and type of concrete to be used as there are several variations and mix designs, which may satisfy the installation requirements). Therefore, it is imperative to have an individual who is experienced in this process.
Bonnie Moore is the national franchise manager for Patterned Concrete Ontario Inc., the Canadian agent for Patterned Concrete.® She works out of the company’s national head office in Toronto, where she seeks new licensees and provides support to the current network of contractors across North America. Moore draws on her previous experience as a business consultant to assist in developing plans to educate the public on the longevity and durability of patterned concrete. She can be reached via e-mail at bonniem@patternedconcrete.ca.
