Structural Independence of Water Retaining structures

[tclat]

Hi,

It is generally said that it is advisable to have the structure for a pool/tank independent from the main structure.

I understand the concerns associated with differential settlement and movement which may cause cracking in water retaining structures if they are not independent.

My question is how far would one take this discussion. I am doing a house which has a pool right up against the building. Actually the architect shows that the building and pool share a wall. The buidling is to be constructed on a very dense compacted sandstone an I would'nt imagine too much differential settlement.

Does anyone have special thoughts on whether the structures should be independent or not and if not under what circumstances.

Thanks

 

[msquared48]

I would keep them separate to protect both. Different loading conditions resulting in different soil pressures and localized settlements.

I would not want permanent water in the vicinity of my house foundation either as the bearing pressure for the house foundation could be impacted.

Also, the closer the pool to the house, the deeper the house foundation has to be to avoid loading the sides of the pool.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

[kslee1000]

Outside of earthquake and hurricane zones with water table far below the foundation, which is sitting on stiff ground without settlement problems, I would say it (bind together) is structurally do-able, though not advisable. You should engage a geotech to exame the site to better handle the settlement issues.