New build of spa and pool with negative edge on sloping land

Swimmer · Aug 6, 2019

We are building a new spa and pool with a 29' negative edge and are looking for confirmation on all points, but especially the number and location of structural items (piers, etc.). I've attached the proposal and drawing. In addition to what's listed, I'm trying to decide whether to go salt or traditional chlorine. I've had one of each but the PBs are telling me go back to the latter. From this forum, I think I'' go salt!
Thanks in advance for your comments and input!

jimmythegreek · Aug 6, 2019

Theres no engineering on the shell just a hand drawn layout? Cant advise without it. Also see no permit required in your quote. Is that correct? Who is engineering this pool the PB himself? I wouldnt dream of building this pool without a set of plans stamped by a licensed PE.

jimbethesda · Aug 6, 2019

Get IntelliCenter instead of Easytouch. It’s the latest from Pentair and should be the same price.

MyAZPool · Aug 6, 2019

Hi Swimmer
Welcome to TFP :wave:

++1 What jimbethesda says.

Here are just a few of the features of the new IntelliCenter and some comparisons with the EasyTouch.

1. Newer technology and the capacity for further enhancements in the future.

2. Web Based (no need for configurator type utilities and programs).

3. Internet connectivity built in. No need for ScreenLogic.

4. Automatic software and firmware update “pushes” versus the “flash-upgrade” style updates that requires an expensive Pentair Automation Flash Programming Kit or a service tech call normally.

5. Future expandability, flexibility and upgradeability (i.e. future RS-485 support for IntelliValve and possibly IntellipH as well).

6. USB port which allows for saving the latest system configuration file as well as uploading files.

7. No real cost difference from other similar systems.

9. Built-in integration support for the new Pentair IntelliValve (two come bundled with the personality kits).

10. Larger Capacitive type screen which is touch sensitive, and which allow better access to ALL functionality at the equipment pad (when preferred or required).

11. 32 “Feature Circuits” capability vs 8 with EasyTouch.

12. 16 “Circuit Groups” (“macros”) capability. No macros capability with EasyTouch.

13. 100 available "Schedules" vs 12 with EasyTouch .

Pentair IntelliCenter i8PS Kit - Pool and Spa with Load Center

Let me know if you have any specific questions on the IntelliCenter and I or some of the other IntelliCenter users will be happy to see if we can answer them for you.
Wishing you all the best in your new project.
r.

Swimmer · Aug 7, 2019

jimmythegreek said:
Theres no engineering on the shell just a hand drawn layout? Cant advise without it. Also see no permit required in your quote. Is that correct? Who is engineering this pool the PB himself? I wouldnt dream of building this pool without a set of plans stamped by a licensed PE.

Thanks, Jimmy. Both reputable PBs that I’ve contacted will do it without engineering. My impression is that they are over compensating with the number of piers. If this forum thinks otherwise, I can add to the engineering firm doing the house foundation.

No permits necessary because I’m outside the city limits in East Texas. The pool is part of a bigger project including 350’ road/driveway, all utilities and a new house. I paid $25 for a county development permit. ...not necessarily a good thing that permits aren’t required but....

Great tip on the IntelliCenter!

jimmythegreek · Aug 7, 2019

My feeling being in construction is permits keep people honest. I see corners cut all the time and hack jobs even with inspections. Being in TX I'm assuming you have the soil that likes to swell and shrink with the rain and seasons. Geo technical work is al experience and local conditions. I'm sure these PB deal with it all the time but what happens if you have an issue down the road? I've seen pools built with underground sprinklers to keep the soil consistently wet and stable. Having an edge pool built is alot more complicated than a standard pool and requires detailed work and precision. I'd make sure whoever you choose has a few under his belt and can explain where his piers are gonna go and why hes doing things a certain way. Without a stamp drawing or permits the faith is in PB alone and so is the shell. If he goes under and you have an issue there is nobody to go after. If you have good soil in your part of TX this may not be a concern. Where im from you need a stamped drawing for a simple retaining wall over 3ft high and for any inground pool even fiberglass or a steel wall liner pool. I would at the least have it looked over my a pro.
The other thing is you are having an engineering firm do the foundation for the house. Why doesn't the excavator or Mason just do it as usual without engineering? The pool is the same scope of work and even more complex. Just saying. And btw I like the design and layout will be a beautiful pool when done

Swimmer · Aug 7, 2019

MyAZPool said:
Hi Swimmer
Welcome to TFP

++1 What jimbethesda says.

Here are just a few of the features of the new IntelliCenter and some comparisons with the EasyTouch.

1. Newer technology and the capacity for further enhancements in the future.
2. Web Based (no need for configurator type utilities and programs).
3. Internet connectivity built in. No need for ScreenLogic.
4. Automatic software and firmware update “pushes” versus the “flash-upgrade” style updates that requires an expensive Pentair Automation Flash Programming Kit or a service tech call normally.
5. Future expandability, flexibility and upgradeability (i.e. future RS-485 support for IntelliValve and possibly IntellipH as well).
6. USB port which allows for saving the latest system configuration file as well as uploading files.
7. No real cost difference from other similar systems.
9. Built-in integration support for the new Pentair IntelliValve (two come bundled with the personality kits).
10. Larger Capacitive type screen which is touch sensitive, and which allow better access to ALL functionality at the equipment pad (when preferred or required).
11. 32 “Feature Circuits” capability vs 8 with EasyTouch.
12. 16 “Circuit Groups” (“macros”) capability. No macros capability with EasyTouch.
13. 100 available "Schedules" vs 12 with EasyTouch .

Let me know if you have any specific questions on the IntelliCenter and I or some of the other IntelliCenter users will be happy to see if we can answer them for you.
Wishing you all the best in your new project.
r.

Wow, lots of info AND a link.

Swimmer · Aug 7, 2019

I'm adding a photo of the land where the pool will be and sketches of the pool. Note that the sunset photo was taken in the winter; summer sunset is more to the right but still just as beautiful!

MyAZPool · Aug 7, 2019

Hi Swimmer
Your proposed pool looks outstanding!
I really like the negative edge and fire/water bowls. Jeep in mind that you can't (shouldn't) run the negative edge and spillover spa continuously (maybe just a couple of hours a day or so). Same with the water bowls of course. All of that aeration will really mess with your pH. You will consume more muriatic acid (MA).

With respect to that, you may consider the use of a Pentair IntellipH in concert with your Pentair IntelliChlor/IntelliCenter. The IntellipH is an automatic muriatic acid dosing device. You still have to do regular testing and make adjustments to the dosing percentage at the control panel, but it sure makes pH management and adding MA to your pool much easier. I have been using one for nearly a year now and I am completely satisfied with it's operation. I have had zero problems with it to date. In fact, besides my IntelliCenter, it is my favorite piece of pool equipment. Don't get it confused with the IntelliChem. I would not recommend the IntelliChem to you. It's much more expensive, complicated and it's technology is just not where it needs to be in my honest opinion.

Pentair IntellipH pH Controller

Full disclosure. I have provided some links to PolyTec Pools for you. I have absolutely no affiliation with them and no financial benefit from recommending them. I just really like the fact that their prices are usually the lowest, outstanding customer service, super fast free shipping and no taxes.

All the best...
r..

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