While flipping through a decorating magazine, who hasn’t dreamed of having an infinity pool? A once-exclusive option for “high-end” pool builders, you can now create your own infinity pool. The steps are outlined here.
Things To Consider Before Work Begins
Any construction project requires respecting a methodology. Everything starts with a plan, whether we’re talking about an above-ground pool or one buried underground.
The following point relates to overflow pools constructed of reinforced concrete. In the case of a polyester shell or pool kit, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Infinity Pool Drawing
You use it to figure out what the pool looks like, where it’s placed, and how big it is. A weir replaces the skimmers of a traditional pool, giving the pool a mirror-like effect (zero edge pool) or the illusion of the water line blending into the backdrop of the pool (infinity pool). Finally, the shape must be adjusted to the environment, as well as to the swimming habits of the bathers: a free-form pool or swim corridor are not designed for the same kind of people.
Pool decks, the swimming area access (stairs and beach entrance), a plant room, and a catch basin must be integrated into the overflow pool design.
A general plan, as well as a section showing the flat or sloping bottom of the swimming pool and the overflow gutter, are usually required for administrative purposes: deposit of building permit or declaration of work.
Work declarations and building permits
Depending on whether it’s an indoor or outdoor pool, above ground or underground, there’s a different procedure. Pools less than 107 sq ft (ca. 10 square meters) don’t need authorization. In most cases, private overflowing pools only require a prior declaration, as the surface area is typically under 1076 sq ft (ca. 100 m²). Pool enclosures are subject to special regulations. Custom-built pools of more than 1076 sq ft (ca. 100 m²) or those located in protected areas are subject to different rules. A town hall consultation is strongly recommended.
The rules for natural swimming pools are the same as those for reinforced concrete pools (formwork blocks, cast concrete or shotcrete).
Material and equipment needed
Material and equipment requirements vary depending on the level of involvement in a negative edge pool or deck level pool project. Formwork blocks can be used to construct rectangular pools without expensive equipment. In contrast, shotcrete masonry must be performed by a specialized company for free-form pools.
The water circulation system requires pipes and parts to be sealed (bottom drains, inlets, and lighting). In addition, there’s a filtration pump, a filter, and a water level control. By visualizing the layouts for the hydraulic network, you can easily generate the list of purchases before you begin the project.
Morana's advice 👇
A tailor made infinity swimming pool
Architects and pool builders can design and build this type of pool, but if you want more control and want to save money, you’re probably better off working with a pool designer and construction company.
Affordably build a pool
Despite infinity pools being technically complex, non-specialized companies can build your dream pool at a reasonable price.
Seek professional support for your pool project.
Now let's build an overflow pool
Obtaining permits, making the necessary plans, and purchasing the necessary equipment are all necessary steps before installing an overflowing pool.
Note: Submerged automatic covers can only be ordered once the pool is completed, regardless of whether the water overflows on one or more sides.
Ground Works And Foundations
Construction of an in-ground or semi-in-ground pool begins with the groundwork. Depending on the construction method and the formwork used, the hole must be sized to correspond to the dimensions of the pool plus a peripheral space. Usually, it is done by a professional who follows the pool drawing.
There is no need for foundations all the time. In certain cases, they are necessary due to sloping ground or poor soil quality. A structural engineer should be consulted for reinforcement, for example.
The construction of the infinity pool
The process of building an infinity pool is similar to that of building a regular one. The bottom and walls of the pool are poured according to the plan.
The construction of the gutter and catch basin, however, requires a certain level of expertise. Water can spill from one side of the pool into a channel or a slot that allows the water to overflow all around the pool. The balance tank in the plant room collects pool water and then sends it to the filtration system. To ensure uniform water flow, it is imperative that the walls are level.
Installing equipment to deal with infinity pools and zero edge pools
Most of the differences between traditional pools and those that overflow can be found in their equipment. As a result of the latter method, the skimmers are removed, and the water is sucked into a surge tank instead of the pool. Filtrated water is sent back into the pool via inlets located mostly at the bottom, making maintenance easier. A set of sensors controls the volume of water in the balance tank, equipped with an overflow. A solenoid valve compensates for the lack of water by evaporation. The presence of a check valve and additional valves is also necessary.
Key Elements After Work Is Complete
With the overflow pool filled, we discover not only its aesthetic value, but also its technical advantages: impurities do not remain at the bottom of the pool, maintenance products are mixed better, and water quality is improved. A flawless overflow is crucial: the water must spill uniformly at all points without overloading the filtration system. On a deck level pool, the water must be at the same level as the wooden or tiled deck.
All attention should be paid to the correct execution of the finishing touches, such as the linings, the terraces, and the coping stones.
Pool accessories you cannot live without
As the number of accessories increases, some are mandatory and others can detract from the aesthetic qualities of an infinity pool. The first two are mandatory, while the remainder is up to you and your budget.
- Any pool in France must be equipped with a safety system. Choose it based on your budget, your children’s age, and your needs.
- A staircase for pool access is increasingly replacing the traditional stainless-steel ladder. It can be combined with a tanning ledge.
- As long as you add a pool cover, the heat pump is a great heating system. For overflow pools, you may want to consider submerged automatic covers or even movable floors instead of bubble covers.
- A pool robot can be used to clean your pool, or there are cleaning jets placed at the bottom of the pool.
- Although counter-current swimming systems aren’t essential, they can be useful for swimmers who enjoy laps.
Overflow Pool Maintenance
A deck level pool or a negative edge pool requires similar maintenance to a pool with skimmers. The reverse hydraulics created by the inlets at the bottom of the pool, however, encourage dirt to remain on the pool surface. The weir washes away this pollution. Checking the draining of the channel and the cleanliness of the check valve are the only things you should do regularly.
Chlorine can be replaced by a salt chlorinator to simplify pool water treatment.
Conclusion
Overflow pools have become increasingly popular in gardens for various reasons. The first consideration is aesthetics. For every terrain profile, there is an appropriate overflow edge pool. Share your project with an infinity pool expert for advice.
Moreover, the filtration system is extremely efficient. By combining the overflow effect with reverse hydraulics, pool water is kept healthy and clean. It is possible to design an efficient installation with the help of an expert.
