Design of Commercial Pools

GNCB has provided geotechnical and structural engineering services for many commercial pools for public and private owners during our over 50 years of practice. Our dedicated team of professional engineers works with architects and owners to advance the design of pools and to increase the lifespan of these unique structures. Fluctuations in water levels, possible unsuitable soils and water infiltration are all factors that must be considered.

Commercial pools typically consist of a reinforced concrete mat with cantilever concrete sidewalls that are keyed into the mat. A design factor that is sometimes overlooked is that many commercial pools are completely drained of water during the harsh winter months. Perimeter concrete walls are designed as retaining structures to accommodate this condition. 

GNCB’s initial step in the design of commercial pools is to undertake a subsurface exploration program in order to understand subsurface conditions. While in many instances, the soils at mat bearing grade are suitable to directly support the mat, test boring data can reveal unsuitable soils that may require pile foundations and/or improvement of the unsuitable soils to make them acceptable to support a mat foundation.  In addition, groundwater levels need to be documented so that a design for hydrostatic uplift can be anticipated. Regardless of the type of pool foundation, it is important to understand the type of soil directly below the pool, so that proper consideration can be given to design for frost susceptibility.  For the case of a drained pool during periods of winter freezing, the presence of a frost susceptible soil, and possible groundwater near the bottom of pool, may result in foundation heave leading to cracking of the foundation. 

Structural design of the pool requires conventional cantilever concrete sidewalls. Reinforcing in the wall and design of the concrete mix needs to be sufficient to prevent cracking and wall movement, for both cases of the pool being empty and filled. In addition, water stops at the interface between the wall and mat, and at cold joints within the wall are essential to prevent outside water infiltrating the pool or loss of pool water. The use of a rigid concrete wall enables the precise setting of a perimeter gutter assembly around the pool. 

Engineers at GNCB can help in your pool design with an assurance that it will survive the many years of use. For comprehensive services that offer value and integrity from a team you can trust, GNCB Consulting Engineers, P.C. provides a unique blend of structural, geotechnical, and historic preservation needs.