[-]Safety First, what permits do I need? All swimming pools and spas must be designed and constructed with a high priority given to safety. Because commercial pools and spas are open to the public, often in an unsupervised fashion, it is of critical importance that the pools are designed, constructed and operated within a rigorous set of standards. Master Pools Guild members share the latest information and technology in the industry. Although the exact minimum standards vary depending upon where you live, in most cases there are permits required. These permits will be dependent upon the design and operating standards of the area. The entire essence of these standards is based on the safety of the public.
[-]What are the Regulations? Within the jurisdiction of where the pool is being planned, there are likely to be varying levels of bureaucracy to get through before the permits are issued. At the very least, it will involve local building code and planning authorities for zoning and land use, local or provincial building code authorities, and local health inspection authorities. Master Pools Guild builders can help move the process ahead smoothly with their unique skills:
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An intricate knowledge of building & operating codes for commercial pools in the area.
A good working relationship with the local regulatory bodies in the area.
A good working relationship with architects and engineers who will be part of the design stage.
A current and accurate knowledge of construction logistics, construction costs, and the operations of commercial pools and spas.
A strong track record of producing "on time" and "on budget".
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[-]What type of construction should I use?A commercial pool or spa only provides maximum return when it is capable of safe and reliable performance with minimum repair and maintenance. For this reason, most commercial projects are constructed of reinforced concrete. Gunite (pneumatically applied concrete) is one of the most common and practical methods of constructing commercial pools and spas. It has a reputation for durability and cost effectiveness. The pool structures must be designed by a professional architect or engineer.
[-]Which recirculation equipment is right for me? There are specific requirements for the rates of flow in commercial pools and spas. These are dictated by the local building and health codes in your area. Usually it is only the minimum standards that are specified. Again, a professional pool builder can properly advise as to the appropriate rates.
The actual rate of flow is usually only a function of the projected number of users per pool. Whatever the design parameters, the equipment that delivers the specified capacity must be capable of doing it consistently and reliably over a long period of time, as well as with a minimum of maintenance. This is why commercial pools are often equipped with "commercial" equipment. This equipment is designed, constructed and tested to a more rigorous set of standards than equipment for residential pools.
The pumps are often made of cast iron or bronze and the filters are constructed of specially coated metal or fiberglass reinforced plastic. The equipment is made to withstand a more demanding work environment. In all cases, the equipment must be National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) approved and labelled as such. The NSF seal is verification that the equipment will perform in accordance with the claims made by the manufacturer. A professional pool and spa builder will be able to assist in choosing the correct equipment for each project.
[-]Skimmer? Gutter? All commercial pools must be capable of circulating water from both the pool bottom and the surface. Bottom water is supplied through the main drains and surface water can be supplied through "surface skimmers" or through a "gutter". Surface skimmers are fixtures in the wall of the pool that draw a thin film of water over a self-adjusting floating weir. A gutter is an open trench that runs around the perimeter of the pool. Water is allowed to overflow and is then recirculated through the pump and the filter. Choosing skimmers or a gutter depends on the following:
- The exact classification of the pool. Competition pools and most municipal pools require gutters while hotel and club pools will often have skimmers.
- The size of the pool. Often pools above a certain size must have gutters. This is a requirement that would be governed by a code.
- The owner's requirements. Certain architectural features can be accomplished by perimeter overflows so that gutters may be used when not required by building codes.
The need for gutters in commercial pools is prescribed with the building codes. Again, your Master Pools builder will be able to assist in the design and the selection of the appropriate system.
[-]What about upgrades and rehabilitation? Time of course will take its toll on a pool or spa. Factors such as new ownership or management, new codes, public safety issues, material deterioration and change in classification are a few reasons for upgrades or general rehabilitation. In most cases, the pool or spa must be brought up to current standards. The rehabilitation of a pool or spa is in many ways more complicated than building from scratch. Before any upgrading can be done, a careful assessment of the existing conditions must be made. A sound reconstruction plan can only be implemented if all the conditions and requirements are known.
[-]What chemicals will I be using? A correct water balance and certain levels of sanitizer are necessary for all types of pools. The parameters are strictly regulated for commercial pools. In most areas, water samples must be supplied for bacterial analysis at regular intervals. The operating permit for a commercial pool or spa is contingent on the water quality being maintained according to local standards.
Chlorine has been and still is the most commonly used pool water sanitizer. There are other sanitizers such as bromine, ozone, ionization, bacquanides and electrolytically generated chlorine. Your local jurisdiction will have regulations that dictate what can and can't be used. The local water source can also be a factor. There are automatic chemical monitoring and feed control systems that are very reliable. They help make pool operations simple, and with consistent water quality, the operating costs are often lower.
[-]Why Master Pools? Since 1962, the Master Pools Guild, an International Association of Pool Builders, has admitted only companies that have demonstrated superior design and building talents. Only those that consistently maintain their stringent standards are permitted to remain. When you see the crest of the Master Pools Guild, you are seeing a guarantee of quality and craftsmanship.
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