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 CONCRETE POOLS
Making a concrete pool cannot be described as anything other
than hard work. However, it is probably still the most permanent
form of construction, and after a couple of seasons should take
on a completely natural look.
INSTALLING THE POOL
Excavate the hole 150mm larger overall than the finished size of the pool, to allow for the thickness of the concrete. Compact
the base and sides to avoid subsidence later, and then line the excavation with heavy gauge builder’s polythene. This is an
additional minimal insurance against leakage and prevents moisture from the concrete soaking into the soil and drying out the
concrete too quickly, leading to hair cracks in the surface. Erect any shuttering that may be required.
You have a choice of either ready mixed concrete, or mixing the concrete by hand. Ready mixed is evenly mixed, of uniform
consistency, but will be more expensive. It will also be delivered on a designated day, wet or fine, and may have to be
barrowed a considerable distance. Mixing by hand is tedious, but a good job can be done with care. A suitable mixture
consists of one part by volume of cement, two parts sand and four parts 20mm gravel. Waterproofing powder can be added
before the water. To test if it is ready to be used, jerk a shovel up and down and across it, and if the series of ridges formed
remain the concrete is ready to be laid.
Evenly spread a 100mm layer of concrete over the floor and up the sides of the pool. Then press wire mesh netting into the wet
concrete to act as a reinforcement. Spread another 50mm layer over this and smooth out with a plasterer’s trowel to give a
pleasing finish. Once the lingering surface water has disappeared, the concrete should be allowed to dry slowly to prevent hair
line cracks appearing. Cover with damp hessian sacking or sprinkle the surface with water through a fine rose at regular intervals
for a couple of days until the concrete has set firmly.
One of the disadvantages of using concrete is the fact that when water is run into the pool free lime is released, which is harmful
to both plants and fish and therefore should be neutralised. A sealant will achieve this when applied to the dry surface of the
concrete, carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions. Apart from neutralising the lime it also seals the concrete. Rubber
based and liquid plastic paints can also prevent the escape of free lime, although their main purpose is as a waterproof pond
sealant. These must only be applied after a suitable primer, without which the paint will just peel away, again carefully following
the manufacturer’s instructions. To ensure that the pond is seasoned correctly introduce a few tadpoles or small fish, and if they
show no ill effects the pond is safe to be stocked with plants and more expensive fish.
Trent Stone supply the many popular local stones and many other types, ideal for gardens and ponds.
Trent Stone have many types of rockery and walling and other stone in their range which are ideal for use with ponds and water features. Beach cobbles and decorative gravels or chippings are also available.
This fact sheet is a service provided by TRENT STONE. Suppliers of
Stone Rockery & Walling,
Pavings, Decorative Gravels and stone materials.
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