Learn how to install an AWS Formal Grotto system.
This video covers the full installation of an AWS Formal Grotto Corner system on a renovation pool, with the structure set directly on the existing concrete deck. The Grotto walls consist of four panels — two large corner panels and two smaller side panels — that are bolted together using supplied stainless steel bolts; all components except the Grotto Top are light enough for two installers to carry. Plumbing and electrical conduit are routed through the hollow panel interiors before installation; bonding wire is attached to each panel's bonding lugs and tied to the pool's bonding loop to meet code. The Grotto Top, weighing approximately 600 to 800 pounds, is lifted into place by four to six workers, by machine, or by the AWS lifting system, then bolted down; Bluestone caps and shear descent waterfalls complete the installation.
What You'll Learn
- All Grotto components arrive palletized and are manufactured at the AWS shop, guaranteed to fit precisely; each veneer piece is numbered for placement.
- Layout lines are struck on the concrete deck with a level before any panels are set; industrial-grade water stop is installed along the bottom perimeter before the first panel goes down.
- Corner panels are set first and bolted together; side panels follow and are bolted to the structure using supplied stainless steel bolts through predrilled holes.
- Plumbing and electrical conduit must be run prior to panel installation; lines route through the hollow panel centers and terminate at a single central location.
- A bonding wire is attached to the bonding lug on each panel and connected to the pool or equipment bonding loop to ensure code compliance.
- The Grotto Top (600–800 lbs) requires four to six installers, a skid steer, lull, or the AWS lifting system; it is aligned and bolted through predrilled holes; rear Bluestone caps and shear descent testing complete the job.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an AWS Formal Grotto be installed on an existing pool without major demolition?
Yes. The video demonstrates a Corner Grotto installed directly on top of an existing concrete deck during a pool renovation, without removing the deck.
How are plumbing and electrical lines handled inside a Formal Grotto?
Plumbing and electrical conduit are run before panels are set. Lines route through the hollow centers of the Grotto panels and terminate at a single central location inside the structure. All final connections are made internally.
What is required to install bonding on an AWS Grotto system?
Each panel includes a bonding lug. A bonding wire is attached to each lug, then connected to the bonding loop at either the pool or the equipment pad to ensure the system is properly bonded to code.
How is the Grotto Top lifted and secured?
The Grotto Top weighs approximately 600 to 800 pounds. It can be lifted by four to six installers, by a machine such as a skid steer or lull, or using the AWS installation lifting system. Removable eye hooks at the lifting points are used for rigging. Once positioned, the top is bolted to the wall panels through predrilled holes using stainless steel bolts.
When are the Bluestone caps installed on a Formal Grotto?
The Grotto ships partially capped; rear cap sections are left off during installation to allow access for plumbing and electrical work. The remaining caps are installed using supplied adhesive after all interior connections are complete.
Video transcript
Welcome to the AWS Formal Grotto training video. All Grotto systems arrive palletized and delivered directly to your job site. Every component is manufactured at our shop and guaranteed to fit precisely. This installation demonstrates a Corner Grotto system being installed on a renovation pool. Because this is a renovation, the system is installed directly on top of the existing concrete deck.
All components are light enough for two installers to carry with the exception of the Grotto top. The Grotto walls consist of four panels, two large corner panels, and two smaller side panels. Begin by staging materials near the installation area using a cart or two by fours to maneuver pieces safely. Always place protective material underneath the panels to prevent damage. Before setting panels, install the industrial grade water stop along the bottom.
Use a level to strike layout lines on the concrete deck to ensure precise placement. Set the two large corner panels first, aligning them carefully at the corner. Each panel includes predrilled alignment holes and bolt holes. Use the supplied stainless steel bolts to connect the panels together. After securing the corner panels, set the two side panels in place, then bolt each side panel to the structure.
Plumbing lines and electrical conduits should be ran prior to the installation. Lines should be routed through the hollow center of the Grotto panels and brought up to the single central location. Install the bonding wire by attaching it to the bonding lugs on each panel. Attach the bonding wire to the bonding loop either at the pool or equipment to ensure the system is properly bonded according to code. Once all four panels are installed and bolted together, install the numbered veneer pieces.
Each veneer panel is labeled to ensure a perfect fit. Apply adhesive and install each piece in place one by one. Once the veneer is installed, anchor the structure to the concrete deck. Drill anchors into the concrete and secure each panel by bolting down the included plates. Install the shear to set waterfalls on the side panels.
All waterfalls should be caulked before setting them in place. If the shears are lighted, connect all electrical and plumbing lines prior to final placement. Now prepare to install the Grotto Top. The Grotto Top weighs approximately 600 to 800 pounds. It can be lifted by four to six installers or by using a machine such as a skid steer or a lull.
Another option is using the AWS installation system as seen here. The Grotto top has lifting points with removable eye hooks. Attach to the lifting points and bring the Grotto top into position. Lift it carefully and set it onto the Grotto walls. Align it precisely and bolt the top securely to the wall panels using the included stainless steel bolts and the predrilled holes.
Tie in the plumbing and electrical lines. All plumbing and electrical lines are installed internally within the structure. Next, install the Bluestone caps. The Grotto comes partially capped, but the rear sections are left off for access during installation. Once plumbing and electrical are installed, install the remaining caps using the supplied adhesive.
Final step, connect the electrical supply, turn on the water, and test all sheer descents and lighting. Your Formal Grotto installation is now complete. Thank you for your interest in Advanced Waterfall Systems. Give us a call if you have any questions.