Cantilever Pool Forms Enable Flexible Pool Construction

Using Cantilever Forms for Pool Construction

Constructing a new swimming pool in your backyard can be an exciting endeavor. One of the most important steps is building the actual structure and shell for the pool using concrete forms. Cantilever pool forms have become an increasingly popular option for pool contractors and homeowners to consider.

What Are Cantilever Forms?

Cantilever forming systems are pre-engineered forming systems that hold the weight of freshly poured concrete on one side using angled steel braces. They eliminate the need for supporting posts and framing underneath traditional forming systems.

The forms hold the shape of the pool while the concrete cures. They feature sturdy steel and aluminum construction with adjustable components and wedging systems to create a secure pool shell form.

Benefits of Cantilever Pool Forms

There are several notable benefits that make cantilever forming systems advantageous for pool projects:

• They do not require extensive support framing underneath, which saves on materials and labor.
• The forms can be adjusted and leveled on site for precision.
• They allow complete access underneath the pool structure during pouring and curing.
• The unique design resists concrete pressure better than traditional forms.
• Components can be paired with other forming systems if needed.

Eliminating framing and posts with a cantilever system also provides more flexibility in excavating and working around obstructions in the dig area. This can make the installation process more efficient overall.

Pool Types for Cantilever Forms

These adjustable forming systems are well-suited for constructing concrete pools of all shapes and sizes. Some examples of pools that work very well with cantilever forms include:

• Kidney bean-shaped pools - The curved sections and unique geometry match up perfectly with the flexibility of cantilever forms.
• Freeform custom pools - Any unique or irregular shaped pool can benefit from these adjustable forms.
• Infinity edge pools - The unsupported edge is easy to form up without framing underneath.
• Raised wall hot tubs - Hot tubs and spas often feature taller concrete walls that exert additional pressure.

The modular nature of the system allows it to conform nicely to rounded pools, pools with attached spas, sun shelves, or custom stair units. For the best results, work closely with your pool contractor when designing your pool to maximize the effectiveness of the cantilever forming system.

Pouring Concrete into Cantilever Pool Forms

Once the adjustable forms are secured properly, trusted processes should be used when pouring the concrete shell. Guidelines to follow include:

• Reinforcing steel bars should be installed prior for strength.
• Use proper concrete mix for pool construction and finish quality.
• Allow concrete to cure fully before removing any forms.
• Water added to concrete mix should be closely monitored.
• Appropriate concrete vibration techniques should be used to prevent air pockets.
• Cold joints between pours should be avoided.

Experienced pool contractors are very familiar with these techniques. Close coordination between forming crew and finishing crew is also essential. Proper curing time before exposing finished shell to water is approximately 28 days depending on concrete mixture.

Removing Cantilever Pool Forms

The beauty of cantilever forming systems is that removal is quick and efficient compared to traditional post and framing forming. Once concrete has cured adequately, procedure to remove forms includes:

• Safely accessing both sides of pool structure.
• Removing adjustable wedges and braces.
• Taking out securing hardware and pins.
• Lifting forms off cured concrete with equipment.
• Filling small holes left behind with patching material.

Pool is then ready for final interior finish work and getting filled with water. Sections should be removed slowly and carefully to prevent cracking or damage to fresh concrete. Weights of forms and concrete pressure loads have shifted fully to pool shell.

Improved Pool Construction with Cantilever Forms

The unique cantilever design for pool structural forming has made the construction process markedly faster and more efficient. Contractors are able to create intricate pools by leveraging these adjustable and modular forming systems.

They reduce the need for extensive framing while providing flexibility unmatched by traditional forming methods. This allows more customization options for homeowners looking to build their dream backyard pool area.

FAQs

What sizes and shapes of pools can use cantilever forms?

These adjustable pool forms work for nearly any shape or size of pool, including kidney bean shaped, freeform custom pools, raised wall spas, and more. Their flexibility suits intricate pool shapes with ease.

How long do you need to wait to remove the forms?

It's crucial to allow full concrete curing before removing forms, usually a minimum of 28 days. This ensures the pool shell is solidified completely to hold its shape when bracing is taken off.

Is special equipment needed to install and remove the forms?

Proper equipment like cranes, telehandlers, or small excavators will be required for handling and adjusting the steel forms during placement/removal. Most pool contractors will have this on hand.

Do I need any special permit or codes for this type of pool construction?

Always check local permit and building codes when constructing a new pool. Cantilever forming systems are commonly used across North America but regulations can vary by region.