Description
Build a sturdy and well-insulated foundation for your swimming pool with these high-density polystyrene pool blocks. The 125 x 25 x 30 cm blocks combine a low weight with a hard outer layer and a practical stacking system. This allows you to build the pool walls quickly and systematically, while the polystyrene helps reduce heat loss through the walls.
Whether you do the work yourself or collaborate with a pool builder, this construction system provides a practical foundation for a custom-made pool. During construction, the blocks are fitted with steel reinforcement and then filled with concrete. This creates a reinforced concrete structure with a permanent, insulating formwork.
Easy to stack and quick to build
The construction system uses stackable blocks made of expanded polystyrene, also known as EPS or Tempex. The principle is similar to building blocks: you place the blocks layer by layer to build the desired pool wall. Thanks to the 125 cm length, you can make quick progress. For a wall height of 1.50 meters, five layers of 30 cm are required.
The low weight makes the blocks easy to move and handle. This is convenient when setting out and building the walls and makes the system attractive to DIY builders. A level foundation, accurate measurements, and correct placement form the basis for a good result.
High density for a sturdy wall surface
These high-density pool blocks have a PS60/30 construction. The core consists of polystyrene with a density of 30 kg/m³ and is fitted with a hard outer layer with a density of 60 kg/m³. This outer layer makes the surface more resistant to dents, scratches, and deformation during processing.
Thus, the block combines the ease of use of lightweight polystyrene with a sturdy surface. The hard outer layer helps keep the wall neat during construction and preparation for the final pool lining.
Concrete and reinforcement provide structural strength
The polystyrene blocks form the formwork for the pool wall. During construction, the required steel reinforcement is installed, after which the hollow spaces are filled with concrete. The blocks remain in place after filling and form an insulating layer around the concrete core.
The final strength is determined by the entire structure: the subsoil, floor slab, reinforcement, and concrete fill must be coordinated. The dimensions of the pool and any stairs or tanning ledges also play a role. The walls are filled according to the system's processing instructions.
Insulating properties for heat retention
Polystyrene helps reduce heat transfer between the pool water and the surrounding soil. As a result, the blocks help retain heat. In a heated pool, this can reduce the energy required to keep the water at the desired temperature.
The total energy savings depend on the entire pool construction and its use. In addition to wall insulation, the pool floor insulation, a good pool cover, the outdoor temperature, and the desired water temperature also have an impact. These pool blocks thus provide a practical foundation for a well-insulated pool.
Flexible in shape and layout
With the blocks and suitable accessories, you can realize various pool designs. In addition to straight walls, entry stairs and tanning ledges are also possible, provided they are properly designed structurally. This allows you to tailor the pool to the available space and your preferences for comfort and use.
When designing, also take into account the placement of lighting, return jets, and other wall penetrations. These built-in components are installed during the construction phase so that they are incorporated into the pool wall in the correct position.
Step-by-step installation
Construction begins with excavating and preparing the construction pit. The floor reinforcement is then installed, and the concrete floor slab is poured and finished to the desired height. This floor slab forms the foundation for the pool walls.
The first row of blocks is accurately placed on the prepared floor slab, as prescribed, in a mortar bed. The remaining layers, steel reinforcement, and built-in components follow. The blocks are connected or bonded according to the system's instructions.
Once the walls are fully built and inspected, they are filled with concrete. This is followed by preparation for a suitable waterproof pool lining. The blocks and the concrete core form the wall structure; the pool lining provides the waterproof finish.
How many blocks and how much concrete do you need?
The required quantity depends on the pool dimensions, wall height, corner joints, and any additional elements. For an 8 x 4 x 1.50-meter pool, according to the provided calculation method, you will need approximately 100 blocks and about 4.3 m³ of concrete for the walls.
This calculation assumes five layers and a calculated perimeter of 25 meters, including a 1-meter allowance. The indicative concrete consumption is 115 liters per square meter of pool wall. Concrete for the floor slab and additional material for stairs or tanning ledges are not included.
Order at least 1 to 2 extra blocks for limited cutting waste or potential damage. For a design with many corners or custom dimensions, a larger reserve may be required.