Acrylic Pool Wall Thickness

Acrylic pools have gained a lot of popularity in the past years. We can build them to make the backyard of your residential or commercial property look luxurious and visually appealing. However, to enhance the durability and safety of the pool, we must choose the right acrylic pool wall thickness. 

Let us give you a sneak peek into the factors affecting acrylic wall thickness and how our engineers and designers calculate the proper size. Find out the importance of choosing the ultimate thickness and hiring an experienced team to insert the acrylic pool wall.

Acrylic Pool Wall Thickness

One of the most requested projects we get from clients about their backyards is an acrylic or glass wall pool. When designing the pool, we pay attention to many details to ensure you will use it safely for a long time. The most important characteristic is the acrylic wall thickness.

In the world of acrylic pool panels, many available models differ according to their features, including their thickness. But how thick are swimming pool walls on average?

Most of the pools we build have an average acrylic sheet thickness between 4 and 6 inches. More often than not, the 4-inch thick acrylic pool walls are considered the standard thickness for this type of pool. However, the thickness of acrylic pool sheets can generally vary between 0.8 to 11.8 inches.

So why are there different options for acrylic pool wall thickness? Each acrylic pool has a unique design. Hence, different material thicknesses are available on the market to cater to the pool’s requirements. We ensure the overall pool’s strength and structural integrity by choosing the correct thickness.

How to Calculate Acrylic Pool Wall Thickness

We can utilize many methods to calculate the thickness of the acrylic pool walls we should use. We always let our experienced designers and engineers do the calculations. They use computer programs and formulas to determine the panels we should install in your pool.

We consider different static and dynamic loads, such as water pressure, load distribution, and wind force. The hydrostatic pressure is calculated using the universal formula:

P = rho * g * d

In the formula, rho is the density of the water, g is gravity, and d represents the depth or height of the pool. Depending on the load, we get the following metrics:

• Minimum thickness recommended in inches
• The stress of minimum thickness recommendation in PSI
• Deflection of minimum thickness recommendation in inches

In addition, we always ensure the acrylic pool wall thickness follows the local building codes and regulations. Ultimately, we evaluate the different types of acrylic materials to pick the right type with properties that will add to the pool’s quality and durability.

Factors Affecting Acrylic Pool Wall Thickness

We use the best design and engineering practices for building acrylic pool walls. For the thickness of the acrylic walls alone, we consider several factors.

Pool’s size

The pool’s size is the first factor that affects the panel thickness. Each pool has a unique hydrostatic pressure, which depends on the water’s density and the pool’s depth. There are two types of water pressure in pools: one is from the inside, and the other is called buoyant force, which is from the outside of the pool.

As a rule of thumb, we use thicker acrylic walls when building larger pools because they tend to have increased water pressure. Thicker acrylic walls prevent deformation of the acrylic material and other structural issues that the water pressure can cause. On the other hand, thinner pool walls can be installed on smaller pools.

However, you shouldn’t worry if you want a big pool with acrylic walls. An acrylic panel has no size limitations because it is easy to fabricate.

Pool type

One of the benefits of acrylic pool walls is that they can be used for both in-ground and above-the-ground pools. Generally, above-the-ground pools require thicker acrylic pool panels compared to in-ground pools.

Design and pressure points

The pool’s design and topography are also factors of significant importance. We will determine if there will be specific pressure spots where thicker walls must be required based on the design of the pool and the features of the location where the pool will be built.

Also, we must address the weather conditions, soil stability and seismic activity. If the area where you want to have the pool is in a region prone to extreme weather and seismic activities, we will have to install thicker pool walls for added resilience.

Moreover, if the pool has a complex design with curves, it will likely require thicker walls. If you want a pool with an intricate shape, we will assess the thickness of the plexiglass or acrylic based on the unique shape and features to ensure quality.

Importance of Choosing the Right Thickness of the Pool Wall

So, how does acrylic pool wall thickness affect durability? The thickness of the acrylic is not just a technical measurement we, as builders, consider. In fact, it is a significantly important detail that can greatly influence the pool’s durability, safety and overall performance.

When designing pools with our clients, we dedicate a lot of time to calculating the ideal thickness of the acrylic walls. We focus on quality, so you don’t have to worry about distortion over time.

The right thickness of the acrylic sheet enhances the pool’s resistance to impact. Hence, the acrylic panel might withstand accidental collisions and harsh weather conditions. Thicker acrylic pool walls are always recommended for challenging circumstances.

Most importantly, using the correct acrylic wall thickness might extend the pool’s lifespan. The pool might require less frequent maintenance and repairs if built correctly and with the right materials. For you, as a poor owner, that means you might cut down the long-term maintenance costs.

Other Important Considerations for Acrylic Pool Walls

Building acrylic pool walls isn’t an easy job. It requires a lot of experience and deep knowledge of the material’s characteristics. As a customer, your top priority should be finding a reliable pool-building company. If you hire us, you can be sure that the most common pool construction mistakes will be avoided.

First, we use high-quality materials for the pool containers, including acrylic pool walls and concrete. That, combined with our expertise, will minimize the risks of cracks, leaks and other damages to the pool that might cost you money.

Next, the acrylic walls of the swimming pools must be properly installed on the floor without compromising structural integrity. The acrylic panes must be properly sealed and secured. Also, when designing and building the acrylic pool, all safety measurements should be applied, starting with withstanding the water pressure and weight.

Lastly, if we take care of the building process, it will be your job to dedicate time and effort to pool maintenance. To contribute to the longevity of the acrylic pool, you should:

• Clean dirt and debris regularly from the acrylic wall
• Avoid using harsh cleaning solutions
• Treat any cracks or scratches immediately
• Ensure the pool has good circulation
• Pay attention to the pool’s chemistry

Reasons to Consider Acrylic Pool Walls

Acrylic pool walls offer many benefits for both residential and business properties. If you are still having doubts about building a pool design with acrylic pool walls, here are some reasons that might help you decide:

• The acrylic pool walls have high impact resistance.
• The material is flexible and can be used for different pool shapes.
• It is lightweight and can be easily installed, but it is durable.
• It has good thermal insulation.
• Acrylic pool walls transmit light up to 92%.
• The walls are non-abrasive and smooth to the touch.
• Resistant to chemical corrosion.
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor pools.
• Give the pool a luxurious and minimalist appearance.

Conclusion

Acrylic pool panels have revolutionized the world of aquatic architecture. And we use them to blend elegance and functionality. However, determining the acrylic pool wall thickness is one of the fundamental aspects of constructing a safe, high-quality and long-lasting acrylic pool.

So, by hiring us from Titan Aquatic Exhibits, you can rest assured your pool will be in experienced hands. Our pool designers and engineers will use their expertise to make detailed structural analyses for your pool requirements and cater to the acrylic sheet thickness.