Pool Acrylic Panels and Windows

Almost all first-class pools incorporate see-through walls or windows. In fact, most contestants of the Million Dollar Pool Design Challenge submitted pools that incorporated these spectacular features. Co-owner of Red Rock Pools & Spas, Rick Chafey, says, “Viewing windows and see-through pool walls offer remarkable aesthetics; that’s why everyone wants to include them in their pools.” Nonetheless, installing see-through windows in pools is not as simple as most people think. The fact that you have to combine pool acrylic with concrete or glass while leaving no room for leaks makes these projects challenging. In this article, we take a look at some of the tips for installing see-through windows successfully.

Pool acrylic or glass?

In most scenarios, pool builders prefer working with glass to acrylic. Glass is more versatile, and it stays clear despite its thickness. On the other hand, President of San Diego-based Watershape Consulting, David Peterson, says that acrylics can end up causing microscopic cracks due to deflection. Additionally, acrylic panels are very long. Ultimately, contractors choose glass over acrylics.

Installation of acrylic pool windows and panels

In most pool projects, see-through pool walls get installed by expert manufacturers or special installers. Very few pool contractors know how to install viewing windows or see-through walls. During construction, they will rely on dependable installers to perform this job for them.

During installation, the installers should ensure the wall is held firmly to the ground to prevent rotation. They can do this by placing the walls at a deeper section of the pool floor (the depth should be more than three times the pool acrylic thickness). Then, they should use a non-shrink grout to pack it. Doing this makes the panel or the wall look like part of the concrete. Installers should do the same for viewing windows. However, the area around the window’s opening should be big enough to accommodate backer rods, sealant, and blocks.

Designers should also ensure that the pool shell is thicker than the glass or acrylic. Normally, installers prefer positioning the window so that there will be a recession on the wall, called a rebate. The rebate often supports the panel. Peterson states, “The backside of the window should have a concrete structure to help the window stay in place.”

Factors to consider before designing the pool

Before installing window or glass panels in the pool, there are several practices to incorporate. They include:

Consult a pool engineer:

Always consult an engineer before you install a panel window. This way, you’ll prevent leaks. A principal engineer working from Sacramento, Rob Holmer, says,'” The pool should be engineered to help the panel stay in place. Remember, the force of the water will get to the panel. So, the concrete around the panel should be able to withstand such pressure.” Typically, engineers will use high-strength concrete and steel to construct the pool.

The type of pool finish:

Make sure you choose the right finish material for the edge of the panel. Peterson recommends using a tile border that extends at about 3 to 6 inches. Doing this helps you keep the area as neat as possible. This prevents other pool finish material used for the rest of the pool interior from reaching the panel.

Flexibility of acrylic vs concrete:

Note that acrylic tends to contract and expand. Therefore, pool acrylic see-through walls can sometimes expand when the temperatures are high or contract when the temperatures are low. Also, note that acrylic panels expand and contract more than concrete. Pool designers should, therefore, use the most suitable waterproofing agents or flexible grouts. Even so, ensure you observe all the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions when using waterproofing products.

Window/panel positioning:

Although pool acrylic see-through windows and panels create a spectacular illusional layer in the pool, this does not happen all the time. It depends on where you place the acrylic windows. Therefore, when installing these features, be creative and strategic on where you place them. Fortunately, a 3D pool design can help you see how the window will look from your preferred position. Consequently, pool designers are the ones to advise you on the best location for the acrylic windows.

Keeping it clean:

You have to ensure that the window is crystal-clear. Generally, you should be able to see all the activities going on inside the pool. Therefore, commercial pool owners should thoroughly filter their pools using more advanced equipment like modern cartridges. Commercial pools have large bather loads. Therefore, you should do your best to keep the pools clean at all times. Pool experts also say that it is best to avoid positioning the panel where people can already see the pool interior easily. Please make the most out of the panel by placing it where swimmers/divers will view the outside environs, and people lounging by the poolside will see the inside of the pool even when there are not close by.

Ultimately, pool acrylic see-through windows and panels are great add-ons to swimming pools. However, installation should be done carefully to prevent any long-term problems with the pool.