Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Why Pool Floors Aren't Exactly Flat

Building codes from state to state demand a sloped floor for recreational pools like the one you plan to build in your backyard. Do you know why?

The State building codes deem it so for safety reasons. While there are many different requirements depending on the place, the general plan across the board calls for a slope that will help determine depths of three to five feet (six feet max in other areas). The varying depths will allow kids and adults to enjoy the pool at different depths; kids can stay on shallow water while adults can swim to their heart's content in deeper ends.

The Florida Building Code specifies a slope of 1:10 for the section of the pool five feet or less, and 1:3 for sections more than five feet deep. Transition in floor slope must occur across the five-foot mark, with a line of dark contrasting tiles on the pool floor reaching from end to end. Markings are required for pools three feet deep or more.



There are pools that have a uniform depth throughout its entire length, but they're usually for athletic purposes. It's important for recreational pools to have as many entry and exit points as possible, including the slope that leads to the shallow end. Design plays a key part in keeping swimming safe for all ages.

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