Installing a handrail around a pool can be a challenging job. The space is usually limited, and there are several obstructions that you could run into. This post will give you step-by-step guidance on how to install a swimming pool handrail and make the process much easier. Keep reading for more information.
Table of Contents
Clear A Path
The first thing you need to do is clear a path for the truck to pull in. This means removing everything in its way, so that it can get in the space comfortably. You can start by moving the garden furniture and other items on the decking. A few of those slippery plastic chairs, for instance, can become dangerous projectiles if you have too many of them lying around the pool area. You can also move the table and chairs inside the house, so that the truck can have more room to maneuver. If there’s no room inside, then you can also move the pool itself to create some space. If you plan to install a swim-up bar, then you’ll need to make sure that there’s enough room for the bar to go up and down for the occasional fish belly or two-footed dive.
Detour Around The Pool
Once you’ve backed the truck into the space, you can start working on the handrail. It’s preferable to park the vehicle in the center of the pool so that you can move it laterally to the desired position. You’ll need to use several vehicles if you have a large pool, as it will be a tight squeeze for one truck. If you can’t park in the center, then you can position it next to the pool and parallel to the shoreline for the best viewing angle. Make sure that you’ve blocked off any driving space so that you don’t run into obstacles while working. You can also ask a friend or family member to help you move the truck laterally or to get in and out of the space more easily. The goal is to create the maximum amount of space while keeping the areas around the pool clear.
Assemble The Materials
To begin with, you’ll need materials to build the handrail. These include wood, barbed wire, metal posts, and connectors. You can use wooden pallets to create an aesthetic platform around the pool or use plastic to protect the ground near the pool from erosion. Once you’ve got all the necessary materials, it’s time to begin assembling them. Make sure that you keep the ends of the wire on the outside of the pool area to avoid any accidents from electrical shocks. Before you start construction, consult with your local building code official or an electrician for assistance. They can tell you the proper size and type of electric wiring required for your specific situation.
Install The First Post
The first step is to install a vertical post at each corner of the pool. Make sure that you’ve got enough material to construct a stable base for the post. The size of the base depends on the size of your pool, but you’ll need at least six to eight feet of material. You can use wooden pallets for this purpose, as they’re generally available and already have a flat surface. Alternatively, you can use bricks or metal sheeting to provide a stable foundation for the post.
Once you’ve got your four vertical posts in place, it’s time to install the horizontal one. This is done by connecting the posts with a metal connector that’s several inches in diameter. Make sure that you’ve got the correct size for this pipe so that it can pass through the posts easily. You can also use a helper if this is a challenging task. One person can hold the pipe above the ground while the other digs it in firmly behind the post. This step is essential for a stable connection. Without it, the handrail will become very wobbly and likely to collapse under its own weight when stepped on. It’s also advisable to use waterproofing on the pool area to prevent any accidents from leaky pipes or broken pumps. You can use a material like concrete or mortar to protect the surrounding area from the effects of water intrusion.
Build The Platform
The next step is to build a platform for the handrail. This can be done using wooden planks or metal sheeting. The goal is to create a flat, even surface that can support the handrail while providing a stable base for the pool table or other outdoor furniture. You can also use concrete block or pavers for this purpose.
Install The Handrail
The last step is to install the handrail itself. This is simply a matter of connecting the two opposite ends of the platform with an overhead brace using metal connectors or eyebolts. The height of the handrail depends on the size of your pool. You can install it directly on the platform above the waterline or below it. Make sure that the ends of the handrail are completely concealed by plants or flowers to avoid any accidents from tripping or falling over the rail. If you plan to install the handrail above the waterline, then you can use an aerial ladder to reach the desired position. This is also the preferred option if you have limited access to the area above the waterline due to safety or privacy concerns.
To prevent accidents due to electrical shock, ensure that the ends of the handrail are not connected to any electrical wiring inside or outside the pool area. This means removing all electrical cords and plugs from the area and disconnecting them from the wall. You’ll also need to check for any wet spots or areas behind furniture or near pipes that could cause an electric short circuit if stepped on or squished by a sudden foot or elbow thrust. It would be advisable to waterproof these areas as well, just in case.
Overall, constructing the handrail is a challenging task that takes a lot of patience and careful planning. It’s important to ensure that you follow all the proper safety procedures and measurements so that you don’t end up with an incomplete or unstable handrail. If you keep all these tips in mind and adhere to them thoroughly, then you’ll have an excellent chance of completing the project successfully.