When we think about pool activities, our minds often wander to the patio, outdoor kitchen, or simple pool games like ring toss. However, even if your pool isn’t large or deep enough for a diving board, you might still be able to install a slide. In this article, we’ll discuss how to install a pool slide and the best ways to plan for it. You might be surprised by what’s possible when considering a slide for your backyard swimming pool.
How Does a Pool Slide Impact Homeowner Insurance?
The first thing to consider when installing a pool slide is its impact on your homeowner’s insurance. Many insurance providers may require you to pay extra if you have a slide on your pool. Slides can be misused and pose various risks, such as teenagers jumping off the top into the pool or overweight individuals falling through the slide. Due to these risks, the insurance industry needs to account for potential accidents.
How to Install a Pool Slide Safely?
All slides you consider should be certified by two organizations: the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Safety Standard for Swimming Pool Slides (16 CFR 1207). While compliance with safety standards is crucial, it doesn’t guarantee safety. Human error is often the cause of injuries, so it’s essential to stress safety around your pool, especially with slides.
What to Know Before Installing a Pool Slide?
Before installing a pool slide, consider the pool’s size, shape, and depth. Check local swimming pool codes and find out what regulations your municipality, county, and state have adopted. Basic code requirements may or may not mention slides, but compliance is just the beginning. Each pool slide also has specific design criteria.
First, familiarize yourself with some basic terminology. The ‘flume’ is the surface you slide on. Manufacturers will outline the minimum open water dimensions at the end of the flume, including surface water dimensions (length and width) and depth dimensions. Once you confirm these dimensions, you can proceed to the next steps.
Next, consider water demand. Some slides require a dedicated pump, while others need only a small trickle of water. This information is available in the slide’s installation manual. After determining the water requirements and how you’ll provide it, consider the footing or base installation.
How to Install a Pool Slide Correctly?
When considering how to install a pool slide, people often start by thinking about pouring the slide footings or a slab to attach the slide to. It’s better to begin with the required clearances. Eventually, you’ll need to understand how to install the footings that hold the slide in place.
Many slides can be attached to an existing poured concrete deck, but most will require specific footings to support the slide structure. This is where it’s advisable to bring in an insured professional to complete the installation.
The exact requirements for each slide vary. For instance, installing a large custom slide from Dolphin will differ from installing a Cyclone slide from SR Smith. Regardless of the type, it’s best to entrust the installation to a licensed and insured pool professional. As a homeowner, emphasize your desire for safety and legal compliance to ensure the slide is installed correctly.
Summary
Installing a pool slide can significantly enhance your pool experience. However, it may increase your homeowner’s insurance. Confirm slide clearances before proceeding too far, and use a licensed and insured pool professional for the installation to ensure safety and compliance.
