Learn how to install an AWS Formal system.
This video walks through the complete installation of a two-tier formal AWS waterfall system on a renovated concrete pool where pool coping was removed to make way for the feature. The system is only ten inches wide, allowing it to sit directly in the coping area without disturbing the surrounding concrete deck. Installation steps include pool surface prep, water-stop application, panel positioning and bolting, plumbing connection, shear descent placement, numbered veneer installation, and capping. The entire system can typically be completed in a single day by two installers.
What You'll Learn
- The AWS Formal system is ten inches wide and designed to replace pool coping in a renovation, leaving the existing concrete deck intact.
- This specific eight-piece system includes two large center panels, two smaller side panels, and four caps; it features three sheer descent waterfalls.
- An industrial-strength water stop is applied above the tile line on the pool beam before any panels are set to create a waterproof barrier.
- AWS provides a detailed plumbing plan; stub-up pipes are pre-positioned between panels and trimmed to approximately twelve inches above grade before panels are set.
- Panels are bolted together left to right and mechanically anchored to the pool shelf using included metal anchor plates with predrilled holes.
- Veneer pieces are numbered or lettered for exact placement; caps are set with adhesive applied at four perimeter points on each panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will installing an AWS Formal system damage an existing concrete pool deck?
No. The system is ten inches wide and installs directly in the area where the coping was removed. It does not require cutting or altering the surrounding concrete deck.
Does AWS provide plumbing guidance for the Formal system?
Yes. AWS supplies a detailed plumbing plan that specifies the correct stub-up positions between each panel. In this example, three plumbing lines were pre-installed for the three sheer descent waterfalls.
How are the panels secured during a Formal system installation?
Panels are first shimmed level, then bolted together panel-to-panel from left to right. Each panel is then mechanically anchored to the pool shelf using predrilled metal anchor plates included with the system.
How are the veneer and caps installed on the AWS Formal system?
Each veneer piece is numbered or lettered for precise placement. Adhesive is applied and the veneer is secured to both the front and back of the structure. Caps are set with adhesive applied at four spots around the perimeter of each panel.
How long does a Formal AWS system installation take?
According to the video, the entire system can typically be installed in one day.
Video transcript
Welcome to the AWS formal training video. In this video, we will walk you through the complete installation process of a two tier formal AWS system on a renovated concrete pool. This project involves a concrete pool renovation where the coping was removed in the area designated for the waterfall. Because the AWS system is only 10 inches wide, it fits directly in place of the coping without impacting the existing concrete deck. This specific system consists of eight total pieces, two large center panels, two smaller side panels, and four caps.
The waterfall features three sheer descent water falls. All components are delivered and carried in by hand. Two installers can safely lift each piece. A hand truck is typically used to transport the panels from the staging area to the installation area. The first step is preparing the pool.
Thoroughly clean the surface and remove all debris. Next, apply an industrial strength water stop above the tile line on the beam to create a waterproof barrier. The plumbing should be prepared in the installation area ahead of time. We provide a detailed plumbing plan to ensure the stub ups are positioned correctly between the panels. In this case, three plumbing lines were installed for the three waterfalls.
Before setting the panels, cut the plumbing pipes down approximately 12 inches above grade to allow proper alignment and connection inside the system. Installation begins with the center panels. Measure and locate the center of the feature. Position the first center panel and shim the back as needed to ensure it is perfectly level. Next, position the side panels on each end.
Confirm alignment and spacing. Shim as necessary. Once all the panels are positioned, bolt the panels together from left to right to create a unified structure. The system must be mechanically fastened panel to panel. Each panel includes metal anchor plates with predrilled holes.
Each panel must be securely anchored to the shelf. Install anchors and then secure the panels by bolting down the plate. Repeat this process for each panel ensuring proper alignment. With the structure secured, connect the plumbing lines inside the system and install the three shear descends, one in the upper tier and two in the side sections. Then install the veneer pieces.
Each piece is numbered or lettered for precise placement. Apply adhesive and secure the veneer to both the front and back of the system. Apply the provided adhesive in four spots around the perimeter of each panel and set each cap into place, ensuring proper alignment. Once all caps are installed and connections are verified, the installation is complete. The entire system can typically be installed in one day.
Thank you for your interest in Advanced Waterfall Systems. Give us a call if you have any questions.