Concrete pools, also known as gunite or shotcrete pools, are a favored choice in Zimbabwe for their exceptional durability, design flexibility, and ability to withstand the local climate. They offer a permanent solution that can be fully customized to any shape or size, from private residential gardens to large commercial and school facilities.
The construction of a concrete pool is a multi-stage engineering project. Here is an overview of the typical phases involved in building one, incorporating considerations specific to Zimbabwe’s context.
Phase 1: Planning and Design
The process begins with detailed planning. This includes obtaining any necessary permits and creating precise construction drawings. In Zimbabwe, expert local companies work with clients to tailor designs to their specific needs, space, and budget, whether for a private home in Borrowdale or a competition pool for a school in Bulawayo. This stage also involves planning for essential equipment like filters, pumps, and pipes.
Phase 2: Excavation and Rough Plumbing
Once the layout is marked, excavation begins using machinery to dig the hole to the specified dimensions. This is also when the initial network of underground pipes for filtration, drainage, and water returns is installed. For commercial or school pools in Zimbabwe, this infrastructure must be robust to handle higher usage.
Phase 3: Steel Reinforcement and Framework
A grid of steel rebar is assembled throughout the excavated shell. This reinforcement cage is crucial as it provides the structural skeleton that gives the concrete pool its tensile strength, enabling it to withstand the immense pressure of thousands of liters of water and ground movement.
Phase 4: Applying the Concrete Shell
This is the core of construction. The wet concrete mixture (gunite or shotcrete) is pneumatically sprayed directly onto the steel framework. Crews then trowel it to the exact shape and contours of the design. This method allows for the creation of custom features like built-in steps, benches, or beach entries. However in Zimbabwe due to lack of adequate tools this process is done manually and it’s called hand packing.
Phase 5: Curing, Plumbing, and Electrical Installation
The concrete shell requires a curing period of around 30 days to reach full strength. During this time, the final plumbing connections are made to skimmers, inlets, and main drains. All electrical work for underwater lights, pumps, and control systems is also installed by certified professionals.
Phase 6: Applying the Interior Finish
After curing, the interior receives its waterproof and decorative finish. Popular options in Zimbabwe include:
- Marbelite/Pool Crete: A durable blend of cement and aggregate varying in colors with sky blue being the popular one
- Tile: Ceramic or glass tiles, often used at the waterline or for the entire interior for a premium look.
The finish impacts the pool’s aesthetics, feel underfoot, and long-term maintenance.
Phase 7: Decking and Final Fill
The final stage involves installing the surrounding deck (paving, tile, or concrete) and any landscaping. Once complete, the pool is filled with water, the filtration system is started, and the water chemistry is balanced. The pool is then ready for use.
Key Considerations for Zimbabwe
Building a pool in Zimbabwe involves specific local factors:
- Climate: Designers account for hot summers and cooler winters, potentially recommending heating systems for year-round use.
- Water Management: Efficient filtration and circulation systems are prioritized to conserve water, an important consideration in the region.
- Construction Expertise: Several established Zimbabwean companies with Pool Village topping the list specialize in concrete pool construction, offering full-service design, build, and maintenance from initial consultation to final handover.
Project Timeline Overview
- Planning & Design: 2-4 Days
- Excavation & Steelwork: 4 days
- Concrete Application & Curing: 4-6 days
- Tiling, Finishing & Decking: 5-6 days
- Total Estimated Duration: 12 – 28 weeks
The timeline can vary based on the pool’s complexity, size, and weather conditions.
I hope this overview gives you a clear picture of the concrete pool construction process. If you are considering a specific type of pool, such as one for a school or a particular residential design, I can try to find more detailed information on that.
