Depending on the construction method, there are four types of swimming pools made of concrete: shotcrete, guinte, poured concrete and concrete block. Shotcrete and gunite are applied and sprayed from a hose that is directed behind, over and above previously installed reinforcing rods (re-bars). Shotcrete is premixed wet concrete, while gunite is a dry mix which combines water as it discharges from the house.
The spraying of the concrete mix can follow the contours of any excavated shape, thus allowing complete freedom of size and shape. In this regards, poured concrete and concrete block walls are more restrictive. Still, an interior finish must be applied to provide a waterproof structure, regardless of which method is used to construct the shell.
Plaster is the most commonly used finish on a concrete swimming pool, because it gives a smooth finish to the pool while also providing a nonskid walking surface. The projected life span of a plaster finish ranges between seven and ten years, depending on how well the pool and water quality has been maintained over the years. In many households where the pool and the pool chemicals have been diligently maintained, the plaster finish has lasted significantly longer. Other common pool finishes include paint, fiberglass coating and ceramic tile.
Proper Maintenance Prevents Pool Problems and Ensures Pool Safety
Most mechanical equipments are available at local pool shops, but will require regular and preventive maintenance to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Pool shop staff and personnel can give you quality advice regarding various items for the swimming pool area or equipment for the swimming pool interior, and they are also able to determine different factors that must be taken into account, such as the quality and hardness of your pool water, or the condition and atmosphere in your location. These factors will help them recommend the proper type of maintenance needed for the upkeep of your swimming pool, as well as the frequency and schedule for maintenance. For pool problems or pool safety issues, however, you must schedule swimming pool inspections regularly.
Commercial and residential electric water heaters need regular checking, so pool inspections will include:
- checking electrical wiring and terminal lugs for loose connection and proper grounding
- checking the thermostat and/or heating element
- anode rod monitoring
- checking pipe lines for leakage
- draining and removal of calcium deposits
In addition, both commercial and residential gas water heater need regular pool inspections for checking the following:
- gas line, gas valve, pivot assembly and electronic module
- cleaning of burner
- sacrificial anode rode checking
- overall cleaning
- electrical wiring and supply
Heat pump water heaters must be regularly checked for:
- electrical wiring and supply
- pressure washing and cleaning of evaporator
- wire size, over voltage setting and under voltage setting
- compressor checking
- actual reading of temperature, voltage and amperes
- evaporator cleaning
- circulating pump checking
- Y-strainer checking and cleaning
- checking the high and low side of refrigerant pressure
- flow switch and gate valves checking
- inlet and outlet temperature difference
If you are using solar panel water heaters, regular pool inspections are needed for the collector panel to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance. An air pressure inspection is also necessary for your swimming pool’s diaphragm pressure tanks. Pool inspections are preventive and are designed to detect any swimming pool problems that may compromise pool safety, however they do not include the cost of whatever parts need repair or replacement.