Things to Consider Before Putting in A Pool Slide

A slide can up the fun factor of your pool, who doesn’t get excited when they see a pool slide? From the youngest adventure seekers to the youngest at heart.  ​

Before you get too excited and start dreaming about a new pool slide, there are some things to consider before adding a slide to your home pool. If you are considering a slide for your pool you may want to consider the follow things before you pick one out.  

Size of Your Pool 
To start your slide addition process you want to first consider the size and type of pool you have. A slide in a long and narrow lap pool for example would defeat the main purpose of the pool and may not pass building regulations. This is where the help of an experienced pool contractor can help immensely to determine if your pool is the right size/depth/style for the slide you wish to get.  

Good Questions to Ask About Your Pool’s Size 

• Is the pool deck large enough to accommodate the size of slide you want? 
  
• Is the type of slide within building restrictions/recommendations for you pool?  
  

• Will the slide look monstrous next to the pool even if it does work?  
  

Where is the Slide Going to Go 
Most slides take up an area about 8 feet by 15 feet and vary with the type. You want to put the slide in an area that has plenty of room so that you and anyone else using the slide has ample room to get around the slide and up the ladder. You also want to consider where the ladder is going to end up. You don’t want to stick it in the center of a patio that is typically used for seating and hanging out or next to a fence so people have to walk under it to get around.  

Safety Requirements for Pool Slides 
Safety codes can and do vary from area to area. These are the basic safety requirements for pool slides. Make sure to look up the local codes specific to your area.  

• The higher the slide, the deeper the pool needs to be.  
  
• Ladders, steps, ramps, or stairs need to have treads instead of rungs if they are at an angle of incline 15 degrees or larger.  
  
• A slider’s center of gravity must be fully balanced on each step or ladder rung during use. The angle of the steps or ladder must allow for this. 
  

• Slide steps need to meet dimension, tread, curvature, slip resistance, and performance requirements. This is a great one to check local regulations for.  
  
• Fasteners must be sturdy and not susceptible to cracking, coming loose, or breakage. 
  
• Minimum dimensions apply to ladder platforms with a slip-resistant surface at the top of the slide including the handrails. 
  
• Must have a load capacity of at least 300 pounds without sustaining damage.  
  
• Hand rails need to meet positioning, extension, height, design, and length requirements. 
  

• Bolts should be rust free. 
  
• Slides should be kept wet for safe sliding. 
  

Maintenance 
Periodically the slide should be tested by shaking to determine if there are any loose bolts or fasteners. With time a slide can discolor in the sun, use a glaze or polish kit to bring your slide back to life.  

The best way to enjoy your pool is to ensure it is safe and the water is properly balanced. For routine pool care in Lake Havasu City contact EverClear Pool Service.  

---