Concrete and tiled pools

The main advantages of this method of construction are the freedom of design with regards to shape, wide range of tile finishes and, once completed, a permanent pool with very little maintenance required. They are generally more expensive than other methods of construction due to the material content and labour intensive method of construction.

Liner pools

Are more economical to build - usually because of a constant depth wall with a hopper at one end (diving pit). The liner itself is the waterproof membrane, and as this is flexible, the construction methods are not so labour intensive. By far the most popular shape is rectangular, with the possible addition of a "Roman End" walk in stairs. Shaped pools are possible by using factory produced wall sections in a selection of materials.

Both the above are suitable for indoor and outdoor construction.

Design

Indoor
The selection of materials used in the construction of swimming pool enclosures is critical, as an incorrectly designed structure can be vulnerable to condensation and subsequent damage in a short period of time. In addition, the importance of insulation cannot be over emphasised, as the cost of air heating could be prohibitive. During my 25 years experience in the pool industry, there are critical guide lines which should be followed for pool hall design. These are:-

• Insulation
• Interior finishes
• Vapour barriers
• Glazing
• Cold bridging
• Surround drainage

Further advice is available on the above, together with various methods of the control of the pool hall environment.

Outdoor
The design criteria for outdoor pools is not governed by as many factors as govern indoor pools. The main consideration must be for the completed project to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye (and pocket!), and meet the needs of the client. If young children are to use the pool, it should be kept relatively shallow. If older children and friends use the pool, rectangular shape, with a deeper diving pit and walk in stairs on the side are more appropriate.