The type of pool you describe is beyond the scope of the “standard plan” type of pool discussed above. This one has been specially engineered and built for the specific set of conditions, evidently somehow embedded in a parking structure. The walls must be designed to be freestanding, since there is no soil or anything else you’re holding back; you are instead holding the water in.

Why do you ask? Are there some sort of structural issues with the pool?

And by the way, you don’t need to call me “sir.” No one else does.

Would you have a description of pools that pertain to condominiums on pool decks in where the floor and walls are not surrounded by soil or any other materials?
It simply has nothing holding it together other than the walls and floor that is the ceiling of a parking garage.

I would appreciate any feedback as I have read your pages and have attained great information.

Thank you very much for your time.

Respectfully;

Carlos Kopecny

Since most standard pool walls are around eight inches thick, the rebar is usually near the center or only slightly towards the soil as you stated. Pools are typically constructed with a “bond beam” near the top where the gunnite is thicker and typically there is more rebar (two layers). The bond beam helps to resist expansive soil forces you described as well as distributing soil forces more evenly along the pool walls.

While it is not the intention of your post, it is always good to remember that the same swimming pool designed and constructed to hold the water in will keep the water out if it is drained; thereby, floating like a boat. If the pool is constructed in an area with suspected high ground water potential a hydrostatic valve is mandatory to allow water into a drained pool to maintain equilibrium. I have never seen a pool that has floated personally, but it is my understanding (and it makes engineering sense) that they “pop” up a few feet suddenly without warning and creating a significant amount of damage.