Lack of space in the UK and demand for modern lifestyles make it imperative that many people across the country opt for basement renovations. It is common to see many London residents, for example, turn their basements into rooms with other uses such as swimming pools, game rooms, offices etc. We’re going to be looking at what’s involved in turning your basement into a swimming pool.
You can design any type of basement pool of your choice. If you have the resources, you can make it delightful and extravagant, even potentially including an underground grotto and waterfall spa beside your pool.
However, you should know that building a basement swimming pool requires many things. It cannot really be something to do yourself as a weekend job. Moreover, not just any contractor can be outsourced for the job. You need a contractor who has the experience and is fully certified for that type of underground construction. A certified contractor would likely understand all the building regulations in your area and would be able to advise you according to the plan allowed in your area.
Apart from selecting a qualified contractor, other specialist areas must be addressed before you can build a swimming pool of your choice. For example, you must obviously pay adequate attention to the issue of basement waterproofing and select the best waterproofing materials to ensure everything is watertight. (Learn more about the various types of basement waterproofing systems that are available).
The next important factor you have to consider is the depth of your basement. If your basement has enough height, it may be good enough for a swimming pool. If, on the other hand, the ceiling is not high enough, you will have to dig down to achieve the desired depth for the swimming pool.
Moreover, there could be a need to install external doorways or ladders at the side of your basement, which could serve as the access point into the swimming pool. This requirement may be necessary as it is likely to be recommended by the city’s building code. (It is obviously important that your swimming pool construction complies with this regulation and any other relevant building regulations).
Further, the property above the basement may need to be strongly supported to avert collapse and cracking of the building. You can do this by supporting the existing walls or installing steelwork and extra joists. You also can consider other reinforcements to the structure to ensure that it has adequate support. This is a very important factor if you need to dig further to achieve the desired depth of your swimming pool.
The basement will need to be adequately ventilated and well insulated. Also, there would usually have to be a fire escape route to comply with building regulations. These building regulations are not the same across the country so it is recommended that you have a prior discussion with the council before you start to take a basement renovation decision.
Sometimes the basement may be big enough that it can be used for multiple purposes apart from just a swimming pool – e.g. many people combine a pool with a gym. In this case, you have to plan the layout in a way that both the swimming pool and the other activity areas have adequate room around them, so you can enjoy your basement swimming pool as much as possible.
If you would like to discuss any of these issues with one of our waterproofing experts then simply give us a call on 0808 273 2138 or complete our waterproofing survey form and a waterproofing specialist will visit your property.
