Water pressure acting outward on the walls and downward on the floor. The pressure increases linearly with depth (ρ gh).
When the pool is empty, the soil and groundwater exert pressure on the outside walls. This is often the most critical load case, especially in high water table areas. C. Structural Self-Weight (Dead Load) The weight of the concrete slab and walls themselves. D. Live Loads (Surcharge)
Designed as vertical cantilevers fixed at the base or, in some cases, as a fixed-top-and-bottom structure.
If you want, I can produce a 2–4 page formatted PDF report with sample calculations (wall and slab) using assumed dimensions and load cases — I’ll assume a 10 m × 4 m pool, 1.5 m depth unless you provide dimensions.
Structurally, pools are generally categorized by their interaction with the ground:
The elevation of the water table is the single most critical factor in pool failure.
For detailed design sheets, refer to ACI 350.3-20 – Seismic Design of Liquid-Containing Concrete Structures and the PCA (Portland Cement Association) Swimming Pool Structural Design Workbook .
Design of Concrete Structures - Liquid Retaining and Containment Structures (Europe).
When the pool is empty or partially filled, the surrounding soil exerts lateral pressure inward on the pool walls. Applied when the wall moves slightly away from the soil. At-Rest Earth Pressure ( K0cap K sub 0
There are several types of swimming pools, each with its own unique structural design requirements:
Structural Design of Swimming Pool PDF: A Comprehensive Engineering Guide