Pool made of polystyrene foam blocks. We make a swimming pool from concrete with our own hands: a simple but labor-intensive design. A swimming pool made of aerated concrete with our own hands.

Building anything requires certain engineering knowledge and skills. And building a concrete pool with your own hands requires an understanding of plumbing and electrical engineering. If you are determined to create an artificial pond, be prepared to work hard. In the summer heat, a pond at the dacha will become a real salvation, and in the evening - a pleasant area of relaxation and rest. It will perfectly complement a rock garden or other decorative elements.

Planning and construction of a reservoir

A private pool in the yard can be built without approval from regulatory authorities, if it is an unprofessional structure of a certain depth and area. If the reservoir is not registered in the BTI, then it will not be in the registration certificate and certificate of ownership. You can legalize the object later, but it will cost more.

Pool project development

When constructing a complex engineering structure, a plan is always created. It helps to theoretically assess the possibilities of implementing the program and calculate the cost. There is no point in building without a diagram. What you need to calculate and think about:

The number of people who will swim at the same time.
Length, width, depth and shape of the pool. The optimal area is 25 - 40 m2, depth 1.5 - 2 m.
The thickness of the bottom and walls. The quality of the soil, the presence of groundwater and the depth of the reservoir play an important role in the calculation. If the ground is floating, the bowl must be strong. The same goes for depth: the greater it is, the more reliable the foundation.
Plan of communications, drainage system, location of filters, skimmer, stairs, lighting of a concrete pool in the country.
Methods of emergency and planned water discharge.

How to dig a pit for a tank

When the area is cleared of excess vegetation, it is time to lay the foundation for the future pool. It is advisable to dig a pit without an excavator only if it is small and shallow. Renting equipment will cost the same as hiring a team of excavators.

To install the main equipment, install the concrete pad and make the formwork, the dimensions of the bowl must exceed the dimensions of the pool. When digging a hole, the walls should be inclined relative to the vertical - this will prevent the earth from crumbling back into the pit.

Hydraulic systems are laid first. To drain water, it is important to make a slope of 4–8% (2–4 cm per meter of bottom), it should be directed towards the drain hole.

The cushion is needed for high-quality concrete pouring of the base. The backfill consists of sand and crushed stone. The mixture is laid on the bottom and carefully compacted, the height is 25–35 cm. To waterproof the bottom, you can use a film of polyvinyl chloride, bitumen or roofing felt and lay the material in several layers.

Important details when building a bowl

In order for the bowl to withstand the enormous weight of water, it is worth considering some nuances:

Make high-quality reinforcement of the base; the thickness of the reinforcement should be at least 12 mm, and the thickness of the rods at the base should be 20 mm. Tie the frame right away - the bottom and sides should be one piece.
To fill the bowl, it is recommended to use hydraulic concrete, and if it is not available, cement mixture S-500 (cement and sand in a ratio of 2:1).
Don’t skimp on materials, focus on quality, because this is your body of water. May it last a long time and give you health and pleasant emotions.

To construct the formwork, painted or oiled wooden boards are used. You can use moisture-resistant or laminated plywood. Using the latter, it is easy to create curved shapes, which is important when building a round pool. Think through the design so that you can fill the base and walls in one go. Raise the internal formwork so that the concrete mixture flows underneath it freely. Carefully strengthen the wooden form for the pool. If it bursts, tons of concrete will be ruined.

Basis for an oval-shaped pond

The prepared frame needs to be poured and given a couple of weeks, or better yet a month, to harden, periodically moistening it with water. If you are planning concrete steps to enter the pool, they must be built after the bowl has hardened. It is better to use plywood for formwork; it is suitable for making curved stairs.

Waterproofing of a concrete pool at the dacha is carried out externally and internally. The external one is carried out as standard with bitumen mastic, and then the roll insulation is glued overlappingly using a gas torch. Waterproofing the bowl is done with liquid solutions or a more traditional method - dry mixtures, which are sold in any hardware store.

Construction of pools from blocks and concrete rings

In addition to monolithic structures, there are other technologies for constructing concrete reservoirs. To some extent, they are easier to implement on your own.

Construction of an artificial reservoir from concrete blocks

Building a swimming pool from concrete blocks with your own hands is very popular due to the simplicity of the technology. There is no need to make formwork or adjust the pouring of concrete, the main thing is to mount a level base and lay the blocks on it, fastening them with mortar. Reinforce every third row with a net, and install a ladder in one of the sides.

After installation, all that remains is to carry out waterproofing and finishing work. The film must be secured with massive objects on the edges of the pool, and then tiles or other decorative elements must be laid.

Concrete ring bowl

To build a small pool with your own hands, a concrete ring (well or sewer) is also suitable. You can do without PVC film on the base; it is important to properly insulate the boundary between the bottom and the walls. The ring is mounted on a layer of cement mortar. It firmly connects it to the concrete platform and seals all gaps.

Finishing and decor

Before you start upgrading your pool, check to see if your pool is leaking. Take water and leave for 10–14 days. Measure the levels and compare - if they are very different, it means the reservoir is leaking. If the discrepancy is insignificant, the water may simply have evaporated in the sun.

For the final finishing of the pool use:

facing tiles;
PVC film;
mosaic, including glass.

The ideal material for cladding a concrete pool with your own hands is tiles or mosaics. You need to lay it out in the same way as in the bathroom. The only difference is the glue. The usual one for tiles will not work. The pool, especially in the autumn-winter period, is susceptible to temperature changes. An excellent option would be elastic adhesive for facade tiles and porcelain stoneware. It is more expensive, but can withstand frost and large amounts of moisture. It is advisable to use grout for joints based on epoxy resins.

At the end, they arrange the area around the pool: lay paths, make flower beds, sun loungers, install umbrellas and everything for a comfortable stay.

Video instructions on how to build a concrete pool with your own hands

Using this principle, you can build a pool to suit every taste - from small and budget to luxurious and rich. If you are unable to figure out some point, try turning to professional builders. They will help you select materials and solve problems that arise.

Any person after everyday work loves to relax in nature. Especially if it’s warm outside. At this time, water procedures become relevant. However, finding a pond with clean water is not always possible. To pamper themselves and pamper their bodies under the rays of the bright sun, many owners build a swimming pool on their property.

It is best to place a brick pool near the entrance to the house.

Of course, you can purchase a ready-made inflatable version, but a DIY brick pool will allow you to create a reliable and strong composition that will delight you with its impeccable performance. Making this bathing container yourself will also help save money. Such a structure can be built on any dacha or suburban area.

When starting construction, you can simultaneously implement three tasks. Here you can take water treatments, simply relax, contemplating its beauty, and also use it as a reservoir for water, which is so necessary for garden plants in hot weather. A swimming pool built on the property has increasingly become perceived as an obligatory attribute rather than a luxury.

Of course, to build such a structure, you will have to spend a lot of material resources, time and effort. It should be borne in mind that in addition to bricks, the following types of materials are often used for construction:

Concrete blocks.
Steel layers.
Expanded polystyrene.

Having given preference to one of the presented methods, you need to choose a place to build a pool. Here you should take into account the uniqueness of the territory, its area, the presence of a vegetable garden, orchard, and flower beds. Naturally, the best option would be a slightly shady area with picturesque vegetation.

Having chosen the place you like for construction, you can think about the configuration of this artificial reservoir. It can be of almost any shape. After this, a necessary condition will be marking the territory. To do this, you need to stock up on cord, tape and small pegs.

Further construction of the pool involves digging a deep hole. It should be noted that its dimensions must be 50 cm larger than the original. The construction of the walls should have a slight slope towards the outside. This will help prevent soil from falling and give the structure a special strength.

To build a brick pool with your own hands, you will need:

Sand layer.
Crushed stone.
Concrete device.
Brick building.
Cement strainer.
Clay castle.
Bitumen coating.

The necessary equipment will be useful:

shovel;
level;
pegs;
lace;
brick;
concrete mixture;
sand;
waterproofing;
a drain pipe;
reinforcing bars;
Master OK;
wire;
boards;
nails;
hammer.

To lay out the bottom of an artificial reservoir, you should fill it with concrete, then lay out the bottom row of the brick wall. This material must be completely recessed into the concrete so that the first two layers become almost invisible.

The space between the wall and the pit is equal to a distance of 30 cm, which will allow the surface of the wall to be treated with molten bitumen after completion of the activities. In the process of laying bricks, the outer wall is decorated with a smooth material, which cannot be said about the internal base. Then it needs to be plastered with cement. Also, a concrete lock should be placed at the bottom of the laid base, which makes the structure more airtight. To ensure the pool is waterproof, a clay device is placed on top of it.

Return to contents

Ready-made kit for construction

To build a pool with your own hands, you often use an already assembled construction kit. It will help you build such a structure in a short time. Here you will find everything you need to construct and waterproof a bathing bowl. Here you can find:

Flange units.
Fittings.
Skimmer.
Finishing film.
Underwater nozzles.
Filters for water.
Embedded elements.
Pump.
The stairs.

This kit will help you build a brick pool with your own hands in a short time. Here you can install various underwater lighting fixtures, many aesthetic elements, as well as a mechanism for water purification.

Ready-made kits allow you to build a very strong and reliable device, dug into the soil. However, due to differences in materials, construction activities may take on a slightly different character. The available elements of the set help to easily assemble the structure in question.

The advantage of such kits is the presence of a ready-made facing film, it is presented in the form of a pool bag, it is ready to accommodate a significant number of people. It can be in rolls, the width of which can greatly simplify the work.

Before starting the main work on the construction of the pool, you should come up with the shape of the future bowl and provide for a method for constructing the object. You need to calculate your capabilities and foresee the scope of acceptable work and whether there will be a need to attract specialists. As soon as all conditions are met, you can begin to build an artificial reservoir.

Return to contents

It is best to place an artificial pond away from trees, because their roots can damage the waterproofing layer. It would be good if the wind movement was taken into account. The best option would be the longitudinal movement of the wind, which with its movement will rake debris and foliage in one direction from the reservoir. And cleaning will be much easier. A pipe should be installed here to ensure timely removal of unnecessary waste. For such purposes, two holes are often placed at the corner points of the bowl.

If desired, you can install technical structures such as pumps, filters, heating elements in the pool; you should choose the most convenient place for the foundation, think about building a frame, laying communications. The most convenient configuration option for a reservoir will be a square or rectangular shape. Yes, and it is easy to maintain. There are dug-in, half-dug and above-ground varieties of the pool.

To mark the area, pegs are used and a cord or tape is installed on them. After this, a large hole is dug. It should be 50 cm larger than the future pool. This space is necessary for installing a waterproofing system.

After this, the base of the bowl is laid out using concrete and brick. A concrete lock is installed at the lower edge of the concrete base. It will help seal the bottom of the wall. When laying bricks, it is important to leave gaps, they will help to install windows in them.

The space between the brick structure and the walls of the pit with spacers must be strengthened. After approximately 3 days, this plane is filled with gravel. The supporting spacers are removed and the bottom of the bowl is covered with PVC film. Then this canvas is well smoothed using wood blocks. Next, it is fixed in the top row of brickwork.

Return to contents

Construction of a swimming pool: combining blocks and bricks

The pool bowl can be laid out from hollow blocks - they are light in weight and large in size.

A similar structure can be built by combining the presence of polystyrene foam blocks and bricks. Although this material is intended for the rapid construction of buildings, the construction of a swimming pool is quite possible. To lay the bowl, a short period of time will be enough. Such blocks are lightweight, but they are large in size.

To secure the base, a concrete solution should be prepared, which is used at the end of construction activities. The blocks themselves are filled with it. A ready-made set of materials in this category contains the following parts and elements:

Fasteners
Embedded units with reinforcing elements.
Skimmer with pump.
Film for cladding.
Filter.
Pipes.
Protective canvas.
Injectors.
Fittings for installation.
Ladder for ascending and descending into a pond.

If you have long dreamed of having your own pool, but limited finances separate you from realizing your dream, the ideal option is to build a bowl with your own hands. By using brick or blocks as the main material for construction, you will not only save your budget, but also achieve excellent rigidity and durability of the pool.

Specifics of building a brick pool

The average cost of a finished swimming pool in a construction center can reach several thousand dollars. Therefore, in the hope of saving money, developers decide to build a permanent brick pool with their own hands. To implement such a project, it is not at all necessary to be a licensed builder and have many years of experience working on a construction site. However, you shouldn’t count on quick and easy results. There will be many technological nuances in the developer’s work, the observance of which is necessary in order to ensure that the pool meets a number of requirements:

1. Protection of the building from groundwater

Flooding of a brick bowl with groundwater can lead to its premature destruction. In view of this, it is important for the developer to achieve sealing of the bowl from their influence.

2. Sealing the bowl from the inside

Water will have a destructive effect on the wall material from the inside, so it is important to work on insulating the walls with special materials.

Pool design diagram

3. Focus on durability

A considerable volume of water will exert pressure on the walls of a brick pool (we are talking about 12-18 cubic meters of liquid, which a medium-sized bowl can hold). The developer must take this point into account and correctly calculate everything at the project development stage.

4. Soil heaving

The brickwork from which the walls of the bowl are built is also influenced by soil heaving forces. Therefore, if there are any defects or if the brick laying technology is not followed, the wall may collapse.

5. Organization of water drainage

It is important for developers to properly organize the water drainage system. To do this, a pit is dug next to the bowl, and a pipe from the drain hole and equipment for filtering it are placed in it.

6. Arrangement of overflow holes in the walls

To control the water level in the pool, overflow holes will need to be installed in the brick walls.

As you can see, there will be many difficulties in the process of work. A bowl built from brick consists of separate fragments and is not monolithic, so it is important to ensure its rigidity. The porous structure of the brick also adds problems to developers. Because of this, you will have to work hard on high-quality and reliable insulation of the pool both inside and outside.

How to build a brick pool with your own hands? Technological aspects

If all the difficulties do not frighten the individual developer, he can roll up his sleeves and begin work on building a brick pool bowl. It consists of several main stages:

1. Construction of a pit

Once the size, shape and configuration of the pool are approved and the design is drawn up, developers begin work on the site. It begins with marking the area for digging a pit. Use a measuring tape to measure the boundaries of the pool, and then mark them with pegs and rope.

After marking, a pit is dug. Its dimensions should be 50-80 centimeters greater than the width and length of the pool, and 30-40 centimeters greater than its depth. The walls of the pit are carefully leveled, and the bottom is thoroughly compacted manually or using special vibrating equipment.

Digging a pit

2. Digging a pit for laying communications

Do not forget that communications will have to be connected to the pool in the future. This is a water supply and drainage system, as well as pumping and filtering equipment. These units are placed in a pit, which is dug next to the pit. The pit and pit should be connected by a ditch into which the pipes will be laid in the future.

3. Preparing the pit for installation of the bottom slab

The first step stated that the depth of the pit should exceed the depth of the pool. This is necessary then to place a special plate on the bottom. But before laying the bottom slab, the pit needs to be prepared - lay pipes for draining the water, level the bottom with a slope towards the drain, compact the soil. Then a layer of geotextile is laid out. Despite the fact that this material is lightweight and has a fine structure, it solves many problems - it prevents the destruction of the bowl as a result of soil displacement and protects it from destruction.

A bedding of crushed stone and sand is poured onto the leveled bottom.

A layer of bedding is poured onto the geotextile, which is compacted thoroughly. On top of it, a layer of 15-20 centimeters is filled with crushed stone of small and medium fractions, and then fine-grained clean sand (layer thickness is about 10 centimeters). The resulting base must be compacted and placed on a waterproofing layer. Ideally, use special membranes that are installed overlapping.

4. Construction of the bottom slab

After work on the insulation, construction of the bottom slab begins. It is reinforced with metal elements and filled with cement mortar. The optimal thickness of the bottom plate is about 20 centimeters. This indicator can be changed in accordance with the landscape features of the site and other individual factors. When the concrete bottom is filled with concrete, wait the time necessary for it to dry.

Pouring concrete on the bottom slab

5. Construction of walls

Having made sure that the bottom slab is completely dry and meets all requirements, the developer can proceed to the next stage - the construction of brick walls. In construction centers you will need to purchase red solid bricks made of baked clay. You should not use sand-lime brick, because this material is only suitable for use in dry environments.

The wall is laid out in one layer, but there are options for building a bowl from several layers of brick. This step allows developers to increase the rigidity of the pool and achieve maximum structural strength.

It is recommended to reinforce each row of brick with metal rods or mesh, and for laying, developers should use cement with water-repellent properties (with the addition of a plasticizer, liquid glass or special hydrophobic additives).

6. Finishing work

When the walls are erected, work begins on plastering the brick bowl. The dried surface is primed, and then the embedded elements are installed - bottom drain, nozzles for overflowing water in the walls, etc. The last step is to cover the walls with the selected material - ceramic tiles, etc.

7. External insulation and waterproofing

Having taken care of insulating the bowl from the inside, it is worth thinking about the external sealing of the structure. For this purpose, hydro- and heat-insulating materials are used to protect the pool from destruction as a result of the action of the environment.

Waterproofing is an important stage in construction

In a pool made of blocks, the main thing is to achieve good waterproofing. Therefore, developers should take the choice of materials as seriously as possible. The following types of blocks can be used for work:

— polystyrene foam;

— foundation;

- other reinforced blocks.

They are not afraid of water and demonstrate excellent resistance to high pressure and aggressive environmental influences.

It is better to avoid using silicate, concrete and expanded clay concrete blocks from the very beginning, since the use of these materials in the construction of a swimming pool is fraught with negative consequences in the form of leaks, premature destruction and deformation of the walls of the font.

Pool made of blocks

Having chosen a material that meets the budget and requirements, the developer can act according to the technology highlighted below:

1. Construction of a font from foundation blocks

FBS type blocks and other reinforced materials have high strength, but they are heavy, which complicates the process of laying them. At the same time, developers need to be prepared for the additional labor costs required to reinforce the seams between the blocks with metal rods. However, in the end, all their efforts will be justified, because the finished pool will be durable, solid and practical.

The design possibilities are also virtually unlimited. Developers can build a font of any shape and size if they adhere to the installation technology. It is as follows: the blocks are laid out on top of each other in rows with bandaging and displacement of the seams. To make work easier, you can use a winch. With it, feeding blocks will not take much time.

2. Technology for laying polystyrene foam blocks

When choosing polystyrene foam for building a pool, you should use blocks in which the manufacturer has made holes for reinforcement and pouring concrete. This material makes the bowl rigid and reliable, while it has a sufficient level of heat and waterproofing. The technology for constructing the bowl is as follows:

- first of all, construct a concrete foundation;

- after waiting the time necessary for the concrete bottom to mature, they begin to build the walls;

— the construction of walls begins with laying out the first tier of blocks, fastening them and installing reinforcing elements;

— row by row the blocks are laid on reinforcement and filled with concrete;

- at the end of the work, wait about two weeks for the concrete to harden, and then begin finishing the walls of the bowl.

It is worth noting that the labor intensity of the work is low. However, many developers abandon the idea of building a bowl from polystyrene foam blocks with their own hands due to their high cost and give preference to more affordable materials.

Pool made of blocks with a plastic liner: an option that combines practicality and functionality

If you plan to build an above-ground pool using blocks, then you should consider building an above-ground pool with a plastic liner. Despite the fact that the presence of an additional element increases the cost of the project, the finished pool will have excellent consumer characteristics. Due to the presence of a plastic liner, its rigidity will increase, and therefore its service life, and the waterproofing and strength indicators will also improve.

The scheme of work for the construction of a round font is as follows:

Territory marking
Removing the top fertile soil layer
Compacting the pit and leveling the walls
Installation around walls
Sealing embeds for water drainage
Filling the reinforced bottom
Wall plaster
Installing the liner

There are also some general recommendations that must be followed when building pools from blocks. In particular, it is worth using a solution with water-repellent properties for plastering walls and fastening blocks. It is also necessary to maximize the strength of the structure and its waterproofing properties by all available means.

A block or brick swimming pool is a serious permanent structure that will be an excellent addition to your large backyard. By building it with your own hands, you will create a wonderful place for your close friends and family to relax, where your stay will bring joy and pleasure. However, it is worth understanding that a permanent pool is not the easiest construction project. To implement it, you will need to carefully think through the project, prepare materials and tools, and also adhere to the recommendations given in the review above.

housedb.ru

Probably everyone wants to have a swimming pool on their property near the bathhouse. Moreover, most of them want to spend a minimum of money on construction. For some reason, a brick pool is considered the cheapest, although if everything is done correctly, it will not be cheaper than a monolithic one, and may even be more expensive. Let's look at why.

1
- 1.1 Preparing the pit
- 1.2
- 1.3 Reinforcement
- 1.4 Concreting the bottom
- 1.5
- 1.6
- 1.7
3
- 3.1 Installation on the ground
- 3.2 Recessed installation
4 Pool made of blocks
- 4.1 From polystyrene foam blocks
- 4.2 From the fundamental
- 4.3

Brick pool construction technology

Methods for organizing water drainage

Pit preparation

Mark the dimensions of the pit on the ground - it should be at least 80-100 cm larger than the dimensions of the bowl. Do not forget about the need to make a pit near the main bowl or at a distance, as well as about a ditch that should connect them - a pipe is laid in it.

Dimensions are marked using pegs and twine.

Preparing the base for the bottom slab

Mark and lay the pipe under the drain. It should go at a slight slope towards the pit. The embedded parts themselves (grid and shutter) will be installed much later - after plastering.

First of all, we prepare the foundation pit

According to the rules, the next layer is geotextile. This is a thin but very durable non-woven membrane that can withstand greater loads, prevents the displacement of soil layers and does not interfere with the drainage of water. In non-heaving soils, it can not be laid.

The next step is to fill in the bedding and compact it. First it is crushed stone of medium and fine fraction. The layer is about 20 cm. If the groundwater level is high, drainage pipes are laid in gravel along the edges of the platform, which are discharged into a drainage pit or into a system (depending on how your groundwater drainage system is organized). The gravel is compacted carefully using a vibropress. Then there is a 10 cm layer of coarse sand. It is also compacted, to make it easier - it is spilled with water.

A bedding of crushed stone and sand is poured onto the leveled bottom.

The next one is the waterproofing layer. In a budget version, this is high-density polyethylene film. But it is practically useless - it will break in many places when laying reinforcement and pouring concrete. If you want really good waterproofing, use membranes.

Reinforcement

Reinforcing the bottom slab is a lengthy process

The next step is reinforcing the bottom slab. The recommended thickness of the concrete base is 200 mm.

Ribbed reinforcement is used. The thickness of the rods depends on the type of soil and depth, but you should not use a diameter of less than 12 mm. The reinforcement pitch is 20*20 mm or 30*30 mm. One or two belts - depends on the type of soil. If the soils are heaving, two belts will be needed - they will definitely be able to withstand the forces of heaving. If movements are unlikely and the depth of the pool is shallow, one is enough.

The reinforcement must be recessed at least 5 cm into the concrete, so the rods need to be laid on the halves of the bricks - they will give the required 5 cm. On top of the rods there must also be a layer of concrete at least 5 cm thick. This will be useful if you have to knit a double reinforcing belt . Then it turns out that the distance from one layer of reinforcement to another will be 100 mm.

To ensure a gap of 5 cm, halves of bricks are laid under the reinforcement

Concreting the bottom

Pouring the slab with concrete. Concrete of at least M400 is used for the solution. Previously, pure cement-sand mortar was used, but today technology requires the introduction of additional additives to impart water-repellent properties. The amount of cement and sand does not change, but much less water will be needed - it will already be a semi-dry concrete solution. Its advantage is that the aging time of the solution is significantly reduced - to one or two weeks instead of the required 28 days.

After filling, wait the required time - from 4 to 10 days - depending on the selected additive. After the concrete has gained strength, the construction of walls can begin.

Pouring concrete on the bottom slab

Construction of pool walls made of bricks

Most often, the walls are made of one brick. But this is a very thin wall that can withstand the load of a very small mass of water.

Please note that only red ceramic bricks are used for the construction of swimming pools. Preferably full-bodied. The use of silicate is excluded - it is only suitable for dry buildings.

A swimming pool with a one-brick wall can be built inside a bathhouse. In this case, the load from heaving is supported by the foundation, and the mass of water will not be large - you will not accelerate much in the room.

For a medium-sized pool, it is better to make the wall at least one and a half bricks long

When laying, it is recommended to use a solution with a plasticizer or the addition of liquid glass. Make the outer seam as usual, flush with the brick, and the inner seam half-empty - so that during finishing the adhesion of the plaster mortar to the surface is better.

Do not forget to build pipes into the walls to install water discharge nozzles. An exception is overflow-type pools, in which the skimmers are hung on the side.

Each row - or every two or three - is reinforced with mesh

Plastering and interior finishing

These works are carried out as usual, only the composition must be waterproof, or better yet, water-repellent. You can add liquid glass, just like in masonry mortar.

Prime the dried surface with a deep penetration compound, preferably having antibacterial properties. The second option is to coat the primer with an antiseptic. Cover the prepared walls with a painting net, and then plaster the surfaces.

Before finishing, it is necessary to install embedded parts - bottom drain, wall nozzles.

After plastering, you can either lay tiles/mosaics. It also needs to be placed on water-repellent glue. You can paint the walls and bottom with rubber paint. It will immediately become waterproofing - it creates a thin and elastic film on the surface that does not allow water to pass through.

There is one finishing option without plastering and other work - a special PVC film reinforced with fiberglass. True, if it is sold, it is only in soldered form, and the shapes are usually circle or oval. It is not soldered separately. If you decide to use it, you will have to adjust all the dimensions to fit the existing dimensions.

Instead of tiles, sealants and other finishing, you can use a special PVC film. Just don’t use sand-lime brick for building swimming pools - it breaks down in water. In order for such a pool to exist for at least several years, there is only one way - film

External waterproofing and insulation

Waterproofing is carried out in exactly the same way as in cases with foundations. The most convenient way is coating. Apply it and let it dry. You can fuse roll waterproofing. You just need it to be of good quality, and that’s not very cheap.

The outside of the brick bowl must also be waterproofed

After completing the waterproofing work, it is advisable to insulate the brick pool bowl that you made with your own hands. This will significantly reduce the cost of heating water. And the expected costs will be considerable - to heat 10-15 tons of water by one degree you need a lot of electricity. And since the pool is deep, it will be weakly warmed by the sun. And if you don’t fence it off from the ground yet, you’ll be warming it for a long time.

It is better to use foam polystyrene boards for thermal insulation. This material has excellent thermal insulation characteristics; moreover, it does not conduct or absorb water, so it will additionally protect the bowl from leaking. Another plus is that it does not bloom, fungi and microorganisms do not develop in it, and insects and animals do not eat it. In general - an excellent option. But it must be taken with a high density - at least 35 kg/m2. So it will also compensate for the movement of the soil during heaving.

Another waterproofing option

This is such a difficult process - building a brick pool with your own hands. But this is the most difficult option. There are some easier ones. You can’t call them purely “brick-and-mortar”, but the work is much less and the reliability is higher.

Small in-ground brick pool in the bathhouse

Plastic liner lined with brick

Even when purchasing, consider how the water will be drained - from below, through the bottom drain, from the sides, through nozzles, or over the edge - with a skimmer. Lay pipes according to the type of water drainage when preparing the foundation for the pool.

Installation on the ground

After you have brought the bowl to the site, prepare a flat area for it. It will be necessary to remove the fertile layer of soil with vegetation and make bedding according to all the rules - as described above.

A plastic liner lined with brick is an excellent option for a swimming pool, bathhouse and more

When draining water from the pool at the bottom, it is advisable to make a pit where the pipe should be led out. Equipment can also be located here - pump, filter, etc. With a screamer and a side drain, the pump will in any case be below the water level, so everything is organized more simply here.

If you want, you can lay polystyrene foam under the brick (or on it) - there is no such thing as excess thermal insulation. You can also cover the sides of the bowl with this material, and only then cover it with brick. Large thickness is not needed - 3-5 cm is enough.

Another option for a brick-plastic pool

Recessed installation

The liner can be partially buried in the ground. With this option, only the depth of the pit changes. After installing the bowl (with or without thermal insulation - decide for yourself), you will need to fill the gap between the wall of the pool and the pit. This can be previously removed soil, gravel or sand. Gravel and sand are an option for heaving soil, excavated soil is for normal soil. You compact the backfill and begin to cover the protruding part with bricks. Actually, that's all - finishing work remains.

Pool made of blocks

The only thing that definitely should not be used for the construction of bowls is expanded clay concrete or any others containing expanded clay. Their density and strength are not enough to hold the mass of water. If they can be used, then instead of polystyrene foam as external thermal insulation.

Using the same technology, you can make a pool from building blocks. Only their density should be high. Water-repellent characteristics are also important

Made from polystyrene foam blocks

Some companies offer expanded polystyrene blocks with through holes for installing reinforcement and pouring concrete. This is a good option for a pool - the strength of the bowl increases, while the walls have sufficient heat and water insulation.

The disadvantage of this option is the relatively high price of polystyrene blocks, but building a pool from them with your own hands is easier than from others.

From the fundamental

If we are talking about concrete foundation blocks of the FBS type, then they can be used to make a pool even larger than from brick. But you just can’t use silicate concrete and expanded clay concrete. Only heavy ones. After all, these blocks are reinforced and have high strength. During construction, the whole problem will be in their correct and high-quality connection. You will need to reinforce the seams between the blocks with reinforcement bars.

The blocks are installed in the same way as bricks - with bandaging, shifting the seams of the rows. For installation you will need to rent a crane. As a last resort, a winch will do. What types of concrete blocks are there and how to work with them, read the article “Blocks for the foundation: reinforced concrete, expanded clay concrete”

Construction of a pool from concrete blocks

Above ground round pool made of blocks

If you are going to do it without plastic, then it is better to make a round pool - there is less chance of it falling apart. In this case, the order of work is as follows:

camburg.ru

Brick pool construction technology

You can build a brick bowl with your own hands, but it will be a difficult task. There are several reasons for this:

It is necessary to ensure tightness from groundwater; it can contain a lot of unhealthy and even very harmful things.
The bowl must also be sealed from the inside - water destroys the brick.
Brickwork must withstand a considerable amount of water. After all, 1 m 3 is one ton. And in a medium-sized pool, 12-18 cubic meters fit.
On the other hand, the walls will be affected by the force of heaving. A brick wall is made up of fragments, and if there is a weak spot somewhere, it is bound to collapse.

As you can see, the task is not easy. All these problems exist when building a pool made of concrete, but with brick everything is complicated by the fact that the wall is not monolithic. The leakage of the material also adds complications: additional waterproofing measures are required.

Somehow you need to organize the drainage of water. Usually, for this purpose, a technical pit is made near the pool bowl, which is deeper than the pool bowl. The pipe from the drain hole is led into this pit, and there I install a filter unit. Overflow holes in the walls will also be needed. Water from the surface will drain into them. In this way, a stable level is maintained and the most contaminated upper part of the water is removed.

In general, when making a brick pool, the work order will consist of the following steps.

Pit preparation

Mark the dimensions of the pit on the ground - it should be at least 80-100 cm larger than the dimensions of the bowl. Do not forget about the need to make a pit near the main bowl or at a distance, as well as a ditch that should connect them - a pipe is laid in it.

First, the fertile layer is removed, then a pit is dug to a depth of at least 40-50 cm deeper than planned: there will also be bedding, a bottom slab and finishing materials.

Preparing the base for the bottom slab

Mark and lay the pipe under the drain. It should go at a slight slope towards the pit. The embedded parts themselves (grid and shutter) will be installed much later - after plastering.

It is better to make the dimensions of the bottom plate 40 cm larger than the planned dimensions of the bowl. This will better compensate for soil heaving.

On the selected area (mark it with pegs and strings), level the bottom, making a slight slope towards the drain. Compact the remaining soil, leveling the bottom.

Waterproofing strips are laid with an overlap of at least 10-15 cm. The joints are taped with double-sided tape. The edges are placed on the walls of the pit.

Reinforcement

The next step is reinforcing the bottom slab. The recommended thickness of the concrete base is 200 mm.

Ribbed reinforcement is used. The thickness of the rods depends on the type of soil and depth, but you should not use a diameter of less than 12 mm. The reinforcement pitch is 20*20 mm or 30*30 mm. One or two belts - depends on the type of soil. If the soils are heaving, you will need two belts - they will definitely be able to withstand the forces of heaving. If movements are unlikely and the depth of the pool is shallow, one is enough.

The reinforcement must be recessed at least 5 cm into the concrete, so the rods need to be laid on halves of bricks - they will provide the required 5 cm. On top of the rods there must also be a layer of concrete at least 5 cm thick. This will be useful if you have to knit a double reinforcing belt . Then it turns out that the distance from one layer of reinforcement to another will be 100 mm.

In general, this process is very similar to creating a slab foundation. Read the article about how and what to do.

Concreting the bottom

The water-repellent solution can be ordered from the company and it will be delivered to you by car, or you can make it yourself in a concrete mixer, but you will have to work with at least two people: you should not allow the edges of the previously laid piece to “seize.” Everything must be done quickly: while one portion is being leveled and compacted, another is already being prepared.

After filling, wait the required time - from 4 to 10 days - depending on the selected additive. After the concrete has gained strength, the construction of walls can begin.

Construction of pool walls made of bricks

Most often, the walls are made of one brick. But this is a very thin wall that can withstand the load of a very small mass of water.

Please note that only red ceramic bricks are used for the construction of swimming pools. Preferably full-bodied. The use of silicate is excluded - it is only suitable for dry buildings.

On the street, the size of the pools is many times larger, and the walls should be two, at least one and a half bricks thick. Moreover, each row should be reinforced with two rods or a metal mesh made of 4-5 mm wire with a pitch of 10-15 cm.

When laying, it is recommended to use a solution with a plasticizer or the addition of liquid glass. Make the outer seam as usual, flush with the brick, and make the inner seam half-empty - so that during finishing the adhesion of the plaster mortar to the surface is better.

Do not forget to build pipes into the walls to install water discharge nozzles. An exception is overflow-type pools, in which the skimmers are hung on the side.

Plastering and interior finishing

These works are carried out as usual, only the composition must be waterproof, or better yet, water-repellent. You can add liquid glass, just like in masonry mortar.

Before finishing, it is necessary to install embedded parts - bottom drain, wall nozzles.

External waterproofing and insulation

If the soils are heaving, it is advisable to play it safe and put a reinforcing metal mesh on the walls before waterproofing. It is advisable to also plaster it and also with a hydrophobic composition. And only then start applying waterproofing.

It is better to use foam polystyrene boards for thermal insulation. This material has excellent thermal insulation characteristics; moreover, it does not conduct or absorb water, so it will additionally protect the bowl from leaking. Another plus is that it does not bloom, fungi and microorganisms do not develop in it, and insects and animals do not eat it. Overall, it's a great option. But it must be taken with a high density - at least 35 kg/m2. So it will also compensate for the movement of the soil during heaving.

Lay polystyrene foam in two layers, overlapping the seams of the bottom with the top slabs. Seal the seams with water-repellent mastic or glue them with reinforced tape (this is the worst option).

Afterwards, all that remains is to backfill: fill the gap between the wall of the pit and the bowl with soil or sand and gravel. The soil is suitable if winter heaving is insignificant. If the heaving is severe, it is better to cover everything with gravel and compact it. This layer will serve to compensate for the loads that occur during freezing.

Small in-ground brick pool in the bathhouse

The order of work will not differ, there are only some peculiarities:

No soil removal required.
The layers of the substrate may be smaller - the dimensions are usually much more modest and the mass will not be so large.
The thickness of the slab for the bottom is about 10-15 cm, the reinforcement is in one row.
If any walls of the pool run parallel to the foundation of the building, there should be a gap between them - they should not touch.
It is more convenient to do insulation with polystyrene foam boards and to do coating waterproofing simultaneously with the construction of the walls of the bowl. They laid out the walls to the height of the sheet, coated them with waterproofing, and installed a heat insulator.
Where to place a pit with equipment is a difficult question. If you can do it indoors, it will be good; if not, do it outside. Although you can find attachments that will be located near the pool.

You can make a brick pool in a bathhouse with your own hands. And it won’t be so difficult: the dimensions are more modest, which means the pressure is not so great. Moreover, most of the heaving loads will be borne by the foundation, which also increases the viability of the idea. But the best solution would still be to use a plastic liner: it guarantees 100% waterproofing.

Plastic liner lined with brick

Here the situation is simple. Buy a plastic liner for the pool. They are inexpensive and come in different sizes and shapes.

Installation on the ground

Sometimes the liner is placed directly on the sand, sometimes a podium is laid out from the same brick, and the bowl is placed on it. It all depends on the type of soil. If they are not heaving, then you can put them on sand, but on clay and loam soils you will have to make at least some kind of foundation.

The waterproofing and rigidity of the walls is ensured by the liner, so there are no special requirements for the masonry and its finishing. Do as you please.

Recessed installation

The liner can be partially buried in the ground. With this option, only the depth of the pit changes. After installing the bowl (with or without thermal insulation - decide for yourself), you will need to fill the gap between the wall of the pool and the pit. This can be previously removed soil, gravel or sand. Gravel and sand are an option for heaving soil, excavated soil is an option for normal soil. You compact the backfill and begin to cover the protruding part with bricks. Actually, that's all - finishing work remains.

Pool made of blocks

If we are talking about wall building blocks, then to build a full-fledged pool it is necessary to choose a high-density material that is not afraid of water and can withstand pressure well. The very technology of building a pool buried in the ground from blocks with your own hands is no different from building a brick one.

Made from polystyrene foam blocks

The preparation of the base will be similar. After the concrete bottom of the bowl has matured, the construction of walls begins. One block has a height of 25 cm, connected to each other with locks. After assembly, reinforcement bars are inserted into the holes, after which concrete is poured. The walls should stand for 2 weeks. After this period, backfilling begins and finishing work is completed.

The disadvantage of this option is the relatively high price of polystyrene blocks, but building a pool from them with your own hands is easier than from others.

From the fundamental

Above ground round pool made of blocks

If we are talking about an above-ground pool made of blocks, then the best option would still be with a plastic liner. Even if it is more expensive, it is more reliable: both rigidity and waterproofing are guaranteed and you know for sure that the bowl will not fall apart.

If you are going to do it without plastic, then it is better to make a round pool - there is less chance of it falling apart. In this case, the order of work is as follows:

Remove the soil in a circle with a diameter of about 5 meters.
Place the walls in a circle, with embeddings for water drainage.
Fill the reinforced bottom (10-15 cm).
Level the walls with plaster.
At this stage, it is advisable to insert the liner, or paint it with rubber paint (after preliminary priming).

When laying and plastering, use the mortar with moisture-resistant additives. When finishing with tiles or other similar materials, the adhesive must also have water-repellent properties. There are no other secrets to building a pool from blocks with your own hands. Try to make the structure as strong as possible and provide waterproofing.

For a version of a pool-pond with an interesting system for cleaning and supplying water, see the video. The walls of the pool were built from polystyrene blocks.

baniwood.ru

Preliminary planning

The first step is to decide on the location where the pool will be located.

At the same time, it is necessary to take into account the opinions of family members and your preferences, but the main thing is to also evaluate the features of the site: the location of the trees, the type of soil and the slope of the ground. It is risky to locate a pond near large trees, since their roots can eventually get close to the pool. You will also have to catch fallen leaves from the water every day, otherwise they will cause the formation of algae.

It is preferable to build a pool on an area with clay soil. This is due to the fact that clay does not allow water to pass through well, which will be very useful if the waterproofing of the reservoir is damaged. A site with a slope will help you somewhat reduce the time of excavation work, during which you have to dig a pit with your own hands.

The direction of the wind should also be taken into account. This is directly related to the garbage that will end up in the water. It is advisable to position the pond in such a way that branches, leaves, etc. wash up on the shore. This will make it easier to clean the pool. The overflow pipe should also be placed in the same place (ideally, you should have 2 at the edges), then the garbage will go down the drain along with the water.

There are several types of arrangement of reservoirs on the site; more often when building a pool with their own hands they use:

concrete blocks;
steel sheets;
polystyrene foam blocks;
kits ready for installation.

These materials are considered to be the most reliable and durable; they are easier to install and waterproof. To build a pool with your own hands, you will need additional materials and certain tools, so you should prepare in advance:

shovel or excavator;
crushed stone;
concrete solution;
geotextiles and polystyrene foam pillow;
construction tape or paper clips;
materials for creating a bowl;
mounting foam;
facing film;
finishing material;
waterproofing material;
hacksaw;
stairs;
skimmer;
pump;
fittings;
wire or welding machine;
filters;
underwater nozzles;
flange units;
embedded parts;
pipes.

Before starting work, you should familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the selected materials, decide on the installation method, shape and depth of the pool. Calculate the thickness of the foundation based on the type and characteristics of the soil and the selected blocks for constructing the reservoir. The depth of the pit will depend on this.

Arrangement of a pond made of polystyrene foam

Building a pool from polystyrene foam blocks is not a bad idea. This will be done quickly and easily with your own hands. The selected material is very light, quickly fills with air and breathes well. XXL size blocks are suitable for construction. From them it will still be possible to construct several levels in the pool and a Roman staircase.

First you need to start excavation work. It is difficult to dig a pit for a large pool with your own hands using a shovel; it is better to use an excavator for this. Moreover, the depth of the pit should be approximately 50 cm greater than the size of the bowl. As soon as the hole is dug, its bottom must be leveled and covered with a layer of crushed stone, and then compacted.

Now you can start pouring the bottom under the pool. First you need to make a lattice from reinforcement (the cell size should be approximately 25-30 cm). Screw the joints with wire or weld. The resulting structure serves to strengthen the concrete screed and should be located in its center, and not on a layer of crushed stone, so it is fixed at a level of 5-7 cm above the bottom. Now you can start pouring the concrete, after which it will need to be leveled.

Once the concrete slab has hardened, a layer of dense geotextile should be laid on it, followed by a polystyrene foam pad. They should be connected to each other with paper clips or construction tape. Next, you can proceed with the installation of the bowl, that is, the construction of walls from polystyrene foam blocks. To make the task easier, before work it is worth marking the outline of the future structure.

Next, you can begin installing the thicket. Due to the use of large-sized blocks, operating time will be significantly reduced. Using a hacksaw you can easily adjust the size required for installation. Each block has special grooves for joints. At the next stage, they begin to remove and insulate the pipes and install filters and nozzles before connecting them to the equipment. In some places, the pipes must pass through the walls of the pool. They will need to be filled with mounting foam so that there are no gaps or cracks.

As soon as the frame is ready, metal rods must be inserted inside the blocks; this is necessary to strengthen and bind the structure. After this, you can install the ladder and skimmer basket. All resulting voids must be filled with concrete to seal. And then you can cover the thicket with a facing film and begin finishing work.

Concrete blocks when arranging a swimming pool

You can also build a pool using concrete blocks. This method is the most common and has its advantages:

long service life;
convenience and ease of installation;
the ability to create a pool of any shape and a beautiful staircase.

The installation technology is very similar to building a pool from polystyrene foam blocks. First you need to dig a pit, level its bottom and sprinkle it with crushed stone. Next, you should fill the bottom (how to do this is described in detail above). And only after that you can start installing the bowl. The main thing in this matter is to lay out the blocks correctly. In this case, it is necessary to use concrete mortar for their fastening and sealing.

Every third row of concrete blocks must be reinforced for strength by placing metal rods along the entire perimeter of the masonry. Next, you should wait a few days, during which time the structure will dry completely. After this, the bowl is covered with a facing film. It will need to be secured around the edges, and then fill the pool with water. This is necessary to level the film. At the next stage, finishing begins. This is easy to do with your own hands, since laying ceramics on a concrete surface is much easier than on polystyrene foam blocks. Using your imagination and your hands, you can create unusual decorations for your pool.

1landscapedesign.ru

Briefly about construction

The process of building pools from blocks is not as simple as some people think. This is due to the following features of this work:

It is very important to properly ensure that the pool bowl does not come into contact with groundwater. Their constant exposure can negatively affect the condition of the material. In addition, in some cases they may contain unfavorable substances.
The pool bowl must also be well sealed from the inside. Water may not have a very good effect on the condition of the blocks.
The masonry must withstand a significant volume of water. It is worth understanding that 1 cubic meter is one ton. The average pool holds about 15 cubic meters of liquid.

Thus, building a pool from blocks with your own hands is not a very simple task. Despite this, the result is worth some hard work.

Step-by-step instructions for building a pool from blocks with your own hands

Since the pool is a rather complex engineering hydraulic structure, it is very important to construct it correctly.

Constructing a pool from concrete blocks with your own hands should be carried out according to clear step-by-step instructions. Only in this case will the end result be a high-quality object that will withstand all existing operating conditions for a long time without problems.

Design

First of all, before you start building a pool, you should develop an appropriate plan. It will allow you to theoretically evaluate the possibility of constructing a given architectural object, as well as preliminary calculate the estimate for this process. If you don’t have at least an approximate diagram, you shouldn’t start taking any action to implement the idea.

The following details should be considered:

As soon as all the above nuances are thought out in the plan, you can immediately begin to carry out the work.

Pit preparation

Before starting work on digging a pit, it is worth clearing the area of any existing vegetation. First of all, this applies to a variety of shrubs and trees, if available.

Preparing a pit manually with the help of human resources and appropriate equipment in the form of a shovel is advisable only in cases where the pool is quite small.

If the thicket of such a structure is large enough, it is best to resort to the help of an excavator. Renting this equipment often costs as much as hiring a team of workers. That is why there will be no additional expenses in this case.

It is worth noting that the dimensions of the pit should be slightly larger than the dimensions of the pool bowl. This is due to the fact that various equipment, formwork and cushions must be placed in the additional space.

Preparing the base

It is worth constructing a cushion under the pool because in this case concreting will be much easier. In addition, such a base allows you to extend the life of the object. The backfill under the pool bowl should be made of sand and crushed stone. This mixture must be spread evenly along the bottom of the pit and compacted thoroughly. Its height should be between 25 and 35 centimeters.

To waterproof the bottom, you can use polyvinyl chloride (PVC), bitumen or roofing felt. These materials are lined in one or several layers. Be sure to lay them with an overlap of at least 15 centimeters. The edges of the materials need to be placed on the walls of the pit.

Installation on the ground

Hydraulic structures should be laid during the preparation of the pit. In order for the drainage of water to be optimal, a slope should be made at a level of 4 to 8 percent, that is, about 2-4 centimeters per meter of bottom. It should be directed in the direction in which the drain will be installed.

The drainage hole must be below the water level. In this case, all the water, if necessary, can completely leave the pool bowl.

Concreting the bottom and installing a base on it

To prepare the solution for concreting the day, cement is used, the grade of which is not lower than M400. A pure sand-cement mixture should not be used, since certain additives and additional water-repellent substances must be added to it, which will allow the material to withstand aggressive and quite difficult operating conditions in the future.

When preparing the solution, it is necessary to use less water than usual. The result is a semi-dry mixture. Its main advantage is that the ripening period is significantly reduced. Often it is only 7-10 days instead of 28 days.

Water-repellent concrete can be made either using a concrete mixer at home or ordered from the appropriate enterprise. But in the first case, the work must be carried out together, since in no case should premature setting of the components be allowed.

Depending on the additive, after filling you need to wait from 4 to 10 days. As soon as the concrete reaches the required characteristics, the construction of walls can begin.

Reinforcement

Reinforcing the bottom of the pool is a mandatory step. In this case, the height of the concrete layer should be about 20 centimeters.

In the reinforcement process, ribbed reinforcement is used. Its cross-section should directly depend on the operating conditions of the pool. But the diameter should not be less than 12 millimeters. The spacing of the twigs should be 20x20 or 30x30 centimeters. It can be equipped with one or two belts. The second option is often chosen in the presence of soil heaving forces.

Walling

In most cases, walls are built in one row of blocks. Due to the fact that these products are quite massive, they can easily withstand the mass of water that will be in the pool.

The first two layers of blocks must be laid on ordinary concrete mortar with water-repellent properties. As for the third row, it is best to reinforce it. This sequence must be continued until the construction of the wall is completed.

The reinforcement can allow the blocks to gain greater rigidity and resistance to the mass of water in the pool. That is why other methods for constructing walls of hydraulic structures of this type do not exist.

Interior decoration

You should not assume that interior finishing of a swimming pool is a fairly simple task that anyone can handle. In fact, it must be carried out in accordance with certain rules and recommendations.

First, the surface of the blocks must be impregnated with an appropriate primer. It is best to choose a deeply penetrating composition that has antibacterial properties. You can also apply an antiseptic on top of this material.

After the preparatory work has been done, it is worth putting an appropriate construction mesh on the block wall. After this, you can begin the plastering process.

If the embedded parts are installed after the walls are covered with mortar, then a special cord should be laid around the perimeter of the products. In this case, all joints must be sealed with sealant.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing the pool should be done in the same way as this work is carried out in relation to the foundations. The easiest way is to use a coating material. It is enough to apply it on the outer wall of the structure, after which you just need to wait for it to dry.

Film waterproofing material can also be used, but in this case you should choose the highest quality and most expensive products. This is due to the fact that the operating conditions of the pool are quite difficult.

In cases where the soils are quite heaving, it is necessary to fill the walls with a metal section before waterproofing work. The top can be plastered with a small layer of mortar.

Insulation

In order to reduce the financial costs of heating water in the pool, it needs to be insulated after waterproofing work has been carried out. It is important to understand that heating several tons of water by 1 degree will require quite a lot of electricity. Due to the fact that this structure is buried in the ground, the sun will have minimal influence on it.

For thermal insulation, builders recommend using foamed polystyrene. It performs its main function well and does not absorb water. In addition, various microorganisms do not multiply in such material. Polystyrene is not eaten by insects, so it cannot be damaged in this way.

It is worth noting that it is best to choose high-density thermal insulation material. This figure must exceed 35 kilograms per square meter.

Other Important Details

The recess around the perimeter of the pool can be filled in various ways. For this purpose, soil dug during the construction of the pit is often used. But in cases where the soil is quite heaving, crushed stone can be used. It needs to be poured into the hole and compacted quite firmly.

On top of the perimeter of the pool, you can fill it over crushed stone, on top of which you should lay a tiled covering. It is best to use a material with a matte surface. This will increase the level of safety near this hydraulic facility.

Types of blocks

Today, various types of blocks are used to build a swimming pool. First of all, this applies to the following types of material:

Concrete blocks.
Aerated concrete blocks.
Cinder blocks (read about cinder block pools below)
Expanded clay blocks.

The choice of material for the construction of walls should directly depend on operating conditions, climatic factors, as well as the availability of appropriate financial resources.

Table of advantages and disadvantages of materials for the construction of swimming pools

Each type of block used in the construction of swimming pools has its own advantages and disadvantages. That is why, before choosing this or that material, it is worth carefully analyzing these factors in order to understand how best to build the structure.

Block types	Advantages	Flaws
Concrete blocks	High strength, fast construction speed, simplicity, versatility, resistance to low temperatures, ease of installation.	The need to waterproof seams, high cost, impossibility (or limited) use on heaving soils.
Aerated concrete blocks	Light weight, ideal geometry, fairly simple installation process.	Low frost resistance and high water absorption, the possibility of fungus spreading in the pores, the presence of shrinkage.
Cinder blocks	Relatively light weight and not very significant cost.	Low environmental friendliness, presence of blast furnace slag, low frost resistance, high level of water absorption.
Expanded clay blocks	The highest strength, high frost resistance, low water absorption, low cost, no shrinkage.	Relatively heavy weight and not very good geometry, making it difficult to build a flat wall.

Before choosing one or another type of blocks, it is imperative to evaluate its positive and negative qualities. This will help build a better and more reliable pool that will last for quite a long period of time.

Decoration

Once plastering has been completed, you can begin installing the selected tile covering. It can be either ordinary tile or mosaic. Today, a large number of different options for making these products are sold, as a result of which everyone can create their own unique and original style.

Instead of tiles and sealants, a special PVC film is sometimes used. It is a glass fiber reinforced material. Due to the fact that it is sold only in finished form, such a product does not always fit the configuration of the pool.

The pool should be built away from trees. This is due to the fact that their roots can damage external waterproofing and insulation. In addition, in this case there will be no need to constantly remove leaves from the water.
The simplest and most convenient shape for a pool is square. Rectangular or with rounded corners.
Marking the area for the pool should be done using pegs and a stretched cord.

It is imperative to pay attention to all the recommendations of experienced builders. They will make your work easier, faster and more reliable.

Conclusion

If you build a swimming pool on your personal plot correctly in accordance with all the rules, you can make a truly high-quality hydraulic facility that will serve for a long time, despite the conditions of its operation. Do you think that if you carry out the work quite carefully and carefully, following a pre-created plan and diagram, you can achieve the desired result? What good advice would you give on building a pool using blocks? Share your comments and become useful to those who are planning to install a pool on their property with their own hands.

Arranging your own swimming pool on a personal plot requires a clear understanding of how this process should be carried out. It requires appropriate knowledge and skills that will allow construction to be of the highest quality. As a result, the erected architectural object will become the best place to relax in the summer for the whole family for a long time.

The process of constructing concrete block pools is not very simple as some people think. Some choose concrete rings as walls, but this also does not simplify the task. This is due to the following features of this work:

It is very important to properly ensure that the pool bowl does not come into contact with groundwater. Their constant exposure can negatively affect the condition of the material. In addition, in some cases they may contain unfavorable substances.
should also be well sealed from the inside. Water may not have a very good effect on the condition of the blocks.
The masonry must withstand a significant volume of water. It is worth understanding that 1 cubic meter is one ton. The average pool holds about 15 cubic meters of liquid.

IMPORTANT! There should not be any weak points in the walls, since it is in such parts that the first cracks often occur, which over time leads to leakage of the entire bowl.

Thus, building a pool from blocks with your own hands is not a very simple task. Despite this, the result is worth some hard work.

Step-by-step instructions for building a pool from blocks with your own hands

Since the pool is a rather complex engineering hydraulic structure, it is very important to construct it correctly.

Design

The following details should be considered:

As soon as all the above nuances are thought out in the plan, you can immediately begin to carry out the work.

Pit preparation

Before starting work on digging a pit, it is worth clearing the area of any existing vegetation. First of all, this applies to a variety of shrubs and trees, if available.

Preparing a pit manually with the help of human resources and appropriate equipment in the form of a shovel is advisable only in cases where the pool is quite small.

IMPORTANT! To prevent the earth from collapsing from the walls of the pit, experts advise digging at a certain small angle to the vertical.

Preparing the base

It is worth constructing a cushion under the pool because in this case concreting will be much easier. In addition, such a base allows you to extend the life of the object. The backfill should be made of sand and crushed stone. This mixture must be spread evenly along the bottom of the pit and compacted thoroughly. Its height should be between 25 and 35 centimeters.

Installation on the ground

IMPORTANT! Before installing the base, it is worth equipping all sewerage systems that would allow water to be drained from the pool. Also in the additional reception area you can place pumps, filters and other equipment.

The drainage hole must be below the water level. In this case, all the water, if necessary, can completely leave the pool bowl.

Concreting the bottom and installing a base on it

Depending on the additive, after filling you need to wait from 4 to 10 days. As soon as the concrete reaches the required characteristics, the construction of walls can begin.

Reinforcement

Reinforcing the bottom of the pool is a mandatory step. In this case, the height of the concrete layer should be about 20 centimeters.

NOTE! The reinforcement should be recessed into the concrete by 5 centimeters. That is why it is laid on bricks, which give the desired size. The distance between layers should be 10 centimeters.

Walling

In most cases, walls are built in one row of blocks. Due to the fact that these products are quite massive, they can easily withstand the mass of water that will be in the pool.

Interior decoration

Don't assume that this is a fairly simple task that anyone can handle. In fact, it must be carried out in accordance with certain rules and recommendations.

After the preparatory work has been done, it is worth putting an appropriate construction mesh on the block wall. After this, you can begin the plastering process.

Waterproofing

It is necessary to do the same as this work is carried out in relation to the foundations. The easiest way is to use a coating material. It is enough to apply it on the outer wall of the structure, after which you just need to wait for it to dry.

Film can also be used, but in this case you should choose the highest quality and most expensive products. This is due to the fact that the operating conditions of the pool are quite difficult.

In cases where the soils are quite heaving, it is necessary to fill the walls with a metal section before waterproofing work. The top can be plastered with a small layer of mortar.

Insulation

In order to reduce the financial costs of heating water in the pool, it needs to be insulated after implementation. It is important to understand that heating several tons of water by 1 degree will require quite a lot of electricity. Due to the fact that this structure is buried in the ground, the sun will have minimal influence on it.

It is worth noting that it is best to choose high-density thermal insulation material. This figure must exceed 35 kilograms per square meter.

NOTE! Installation of polystyrene should be carried out in two layers. It is necessary to lay it in such a way that it overlaps the joints of each other. Additionally, water-repellent mastic should be applied to the seams.

Other Important Details

Types of blocks

Today, various types of blocks are used to build a swimming pool. First of all, this applies to the following types of material (we do not consider foam blocks, since the walls of an immersion pool must be as rigid as possible):

Concrete blocks.
Aerated concrete blocks.
Cinder blocks (read about cinder block pools below)
Expanded clay blocks.

The choice of material for the construction of walls should directly depend on operating conditions, climatic factors, as well as the availability of appropriate financial resources.

Table of advantages and disadvantages of materials for the construction of swimming pools

Block types	Advantages	Flaws
Concrete blocks	High strength, fast construction speed, simplicity, versatility, resistance to low temperatures, ease of installation.	The need to waterproof seams, high cost, impossibility (or limited) use on heaving soils.
Aerated concrete blocks	Light weight, ideal geometry, fairly simple installation process.	Low frost resistance and high water absorption, the possibility of fungus spreading in the pores, the presence of shrinkage.
Cinder blocks	Relatively light weight and not very significant cost.	Low environmental friendliness, presence of blast furnace slag, low frost resistance, high level of water absorption.
Expanded clay blocks	The highest strength, low water absorption, low cost, no shrinkage.	Relatively heavy weight and not very good geometry, making it difficult to build a flat wall.

Decoration

Once plastering has been completed, you can begin installing the selected tile covering. It can be either ordinary tile or mosaic. Today, a large number of different versions of these products are sold, as a result of which anyone can create their own unique and original style of pool terrace.

IMPORTANT! Experts recommend laying tiles with water-repellent adhesive. Additionally, the walls and bottom can be painted using rubber paint. It will serve as a waterproofing layer.

The pool should be built away from trees. This is due to the fact that their roots can damage external waterproofing and insulation. In addition, in this case there will be no need to constantly remove leaves from the water.
The simplest and most convenient shape for a pool is square. Rectangular or with rounded corners.
Marking the area for the pool should be done using pegs and a stretched cord.

It is imperative to pay attention to all the recommendations of experienced builders. They will make your work easier, faster and more reliable.

Useful videos

In the video below you will learn how to make a pool from inexpensive concrete blocks for your summer house with your own hands.

Conclusion

If you build a swimming pool on your personal plot correctly in accordance with all the rules, you can make a truly high-quality hydraulic facility that will serve for a long time, despite the conditions of its operation. Do you think that if you carry out the work quite carefully and carefully, following a pre-created plan and diagram, you can achieve the desired result? What good advice would you give on building a pool using blocks? Share your comments and become useful to those who are planning to build and equip a pool on their property with their own hands.

With your own hands | №4 (32) "2011

What private home owner doesn’t dream of having their own pool in the garden? But for many, the implementation of the plan seems too complicated and expensive. However, with the help of a construction and installation system kit, you can build a pool yourself.

In the warm season, your own pool in the garden can give a lot of joy, freshness, health and pleasure from swimming to the whole family. Why not build it yourself?

Basic kit

This is quite possible if you have the desire and basic skills, as well as a special set of materials and equipment supplied by swimming pool manufacturers. The required set includes wall materials for the construction of a swimming bowl, waterproofing, facing film, embedded parts, fittings, flange assemblies, underwater nozzles, a skimmer, a pump, a filter and a ladder for descent. The basic kit can be supplemented with various accessories: underwater lights, a counterflow device, a protective coating, and a tool for cleaning the bottom and walls of the bowl.

Quick installation

In the examples discussed below, all three pools are capital in-ground structures, however, their shape, size and weight of the wall elements imply simple and quick installation.

The components for swimming pools are very convenient for manipulation, be it lightweight large-sized polystyrene blocks, heavier and smaller concrete blocks, or a steel strip rolled into a compact roll and easily fixed with special profiles. The facing film has a roll width that is optimal for cutting and installation, and in some cases it is already welded into a ready-made “bag” according to the size of the bowl.

Before constructing a reservoir, it is important to determine in advance its location, size, shape, as well as the material of the walls for the pool. Consulting specialists can be of great help in this regard. It is also worth assessing your capabilities in advance and understanding which part of the work you can do yourself, and for which it is better to use the services of a professional.

Pool walls made of polystyrene foam blocks

Even the walls of residential buildings are successfully erected from expanded polystyrene blocks, so building a pool bowl from them will not be difficult. It is from these large-format blocks (XXL size) that the pool bowl measuring 8 x 4 x 1.5 m is built. The impressive dimensions and light weight of the blocks make it quick and easy to lay out the walls. The concrete mixture is used only after the completion of laying the walls: it fills the cavities of the blocks, concreting the wall to its entire height. The construction and installation system kit includes fastening and reinforcing elements, embedded parts, a facing film and a protective non-woven fabric, a ladder for going into the water, a sand filter, a pump, a skimmer, two nozzles, fittings and pipes.

The special shape of the pool is due to the presence of so-called Roman steps for descending into the water. Expanded polystyrene serves not only as a structural material, but also as a heat-insulating material.

Photo 1. The foundation for the pool is ready. The package contains a custom-made Roman staircase.
Photo 2. The blocks are large in size, light weight and tongue-and-groove fastening, which simplifies the construction of the pool walls.
Photo 3. You can cut blocks to size and cut technological holes in them using a hand saw.
Photo 4. Reinforcement bars are inserted into the voids of the blocks and tied together for subsequent concreting.
Photo 5. Top view: the fittings and the pipe passing through the wall for connecting the nozzle are visible.
Photo 6. At the point where the pipe exits, the joint between it and the pool wall is sealed with sealed self-hardening foam.
Photo 7. At the top of the wall there is a built-in element for placing a skimmer, and fittings are laid on top.
Photo 8. A “Roman” ladder made of fiberglass reinforced polyester is installed in the prepared recess.
Photo 9. Then they begin concreting the walls, filling the cavities of the blocks with concrete mixture using a pump.
Photo 10. The walls and bottom of the bowl are lined with a facing film and the pool is filled with water. Decorative slabs are laid around the perimeter.

Pool walls made of steel sheet

The pool bowl can have different shapes: round, oval or figure eight. The base of the reservoir is a concrete monolithic slab or well-compacted soil. In the latter case, before laying the facing film over the base, it is necessary to lay a protective non-woven fabric. The structural and formative basis of the structure is a wide strip of sheet steel, which is supplied in rolls and unrolled immediately before installation on the construction site. To fasten the tape into a ring, a special steel profile is used, with the help of which a strong and stable bowl structure is mounted. The pool liner comes in a large “bag”, which makes the job much easier. Along the perimeter of the bowl, the film is fixed using a ring fastening profile. Installation of technical equipment is carried out after finishing the lining and filling the pool with water, tightly pressing the film to the bottom and walls.

The Fun model has the following dimensions: diameter - up to 6, depth - up to 1.5 m. The bowl can be either completely buried in the ground or rise above it up to half the height - the strength of the steel structure allows this.

Photo 1. The base of the pool in the form of compacted soil or a monolithic concrete slab should have a height of 20 cm, which is taken into account when preparing the pit.
Photo 2. The concrete or soil surface is lined with non-woven fabric to protect the facing film from mechanical damage.
Photo 3. The lower fastening profile is placed on the base and connected into a ring. Then they unfold the steel tape-wall and fix it in it.
Photo 4. After installing the top ring profile and vertical end fasteners, the steel strip forms a round bowl.
Photo 5. The film lining is inserted into the bowl, pressed against the walls, straightening the folds, and fixed on top with a ring fastening profile.
Photo 6. To remove wrinkles at the bottom, pour water into the pool in a layer of about 2 cm and smooth the film in the direction from the center to the walls of the bowl.

Pool walls made of concrete blocks

Standard 24 cm thick concrete blocks are quite suitable for constructing a rectangular swimming pool with bowl dimensions of 8 x 3.5 x 1.5 m. Blocks may or may not be included in the delivery if the customer decides to use locally produced materials. In the latter case, the system manufacturer supplies only a facing film, sealant, sand filter, skimmer, circulation pump, piping parts, nozzles, a ladder for getting into the water and a water vacuum cleaner to clean the bottom of dirt.

The pool adorns the small elongated garden adjacent to the house, where previously there was only a narrow lawn.

Photo 1. The walls of the pool are made of standard concrete blocks. For greater strength, every third row of masonry is reinforced around the perimeter.
Photo 2. An alternative to a stepladder is a factory-made staircase, mounted into the wall at the stage of masonry work.
Photo 3. The inner surface of the walls made of blocks along the entire perimeter of the bowl is covered with insulating material, after which...
Photo 4....lay the facing film, unwinding it from the roll and fixing it on the upper edge of the bowl using improvised objects.
Photo 5. Individual strips of film are overlapped into a continuous coating using special glue (so-called cold welding). From the outside, the joints are additionally sealed.