There is no way to build an overflow pool without a gutter: whether the pool spills on four sides or one side, it is an essential component of the hydraulic system.
What is the purpose of the channel?
In a regular pool, surface water is drawn through skimmers and filtered, disinfected, and heated in the filtration system. In the treatment of water, skimmers are essential. In overflow pools, skimmers are replaced by weirs that allow water to escape and reach channels.
In a deck level pool, there is a gutter
Cast or shotcrete swimming pools have a channel around them because the water flows from all sides. Below the pool, a catch basin collects water from the perimeter channel. The pool deck offers a peaceful view of the water.
Infinity pools also have channels
Weirs replace the coping stone in these pools, allowing water to flow to the gutter below. Depending on the desired effect, the water may run down the wall or exit in a noisy waterfall. Based on their configurations, in-ground pools commonly use channels as catch basins or as water collectors.

Overflow gutters can be made in a variety of ways
An infinity pool must have the channel designed into the construction plan. It is essential to make this element accessible while remaining unseen from the terraces around the pool, regardless of whether it is a rectangle-shaped or a free-form pool. Be sure to consider the floor space of this channel when preparing the ground.
Using a prefabricated channel
It is mainly used in concrete pools with overflows at the deck level. You can install this conduit made of PVC, stainless steel, or galvanized steel when you build a pool, or if you renovate an existing one. The channel can act as a catch basin or not, depending on the manufacturer. The cost of this system is higher than the cost of a channel made of hollow blocks or poured concrete.
Creating the gutter when building the overflow pool
There are different gutter construction options, but one of the most commonly used is concrete. It is constructed similarly to the main basin. Typically, shotcrete construction involves gutter and pool construction at the same time. The formwork and the concrete pour of the gutter are done later for an in-ground concrete or hollow blocks pool.
Waterproofing pools requires PVC membranes or polyester resin reinforced with fiberglass and/or gel coats; In most cases, the pool lining is similar to the gutter lining. PVC liners are more challenging to use.


Covering the gutters
It is necessary to cap the channels of zero edge pools for safety reasons. Public pools have plastic grates we’re all familiar with. Private pools can be covered in a more aesthetic manner. These covers should be selected based on the submerged deck coating and the pool coating, the shape of the swimming pool, and your budget.
Infinity pool gutters can be covered to facilitate maintenance or prevent excessive dirt and debris from entering the pool.
A few other things to consider when building the infinity pool
In addition to the gutter, there are several other components that make up the hydraulic circuit of the overflow pool. A deck-level pool’s gutters collect water which is gravity-fed to the surge tank. By using a bottom drain, it is sucked by the filtration pump and sent to the filter. After passing through the disinfection (electrolyze or other) and heating systems (heat pump, exchanger, etc.) it returns to the pool via the inlets.
A negative deck pool does not always require a catch basin since the channel can be used instead. Inlets can be found in the walls or at the bottom of the pool, depending on the circumstances.
Construction and maintenance of an infinity pool
For all types of pools, including above-ground pools, the filtration system contains all the parts to be sealed and pipes, as well as the equipment installed in the plant room.
Hydraulic network design affects bathing water quality and treatment product consumption significantly. For a trouble-free pool maintenance, please inspect the following points:
- An overflow profile that is perfectly horizontal
- Properly distributing the parts to be sealed
- A pool-sized piping and filtration system
- An easily accessible balance tank
Make the most of MORANA CONSEIL’s expertise to build an infinity pool
A deck level pool or infinity pool, MORANA CONSEIL works with individuals, professionals, and companies in the construction of their pools. Their personalized advice is adapted to the needs of their customers in swimming pools construction and renovation.
MORANA CONSEIL provides an efficient solution for a serene pool construction. Bet on their range of services if you want a swimming pool that is durable, long-lasting, and aesthetic.
With their help, you can build or have built the pool of your dreams with savings between 15 and 50% compared to pool builders’ quotes.
