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NPQS

A3-20 Pool Finishes

National Productivity and Quality Specifications (NPQS)

A3-20 Pool Finishes

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CONTENTS Page

1.0 GENERAL 3
1.1 Scope 3
1.2 Related Sections 3
1.3 Standards 3
1.4 Trade Preambles 4

2.0 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS 6


2.1 Contractors Proposals 6

3.0 MATERIALS AND COMPONENTS 7


3.1 Pool Finishes Systems 7
3.2 Waterproofing 7
3.3 Tiles 7
3.4 Minimum Joint Widths for Tiles 8
3.5 Tile Beds 8
3.6 Rendering 9
3.7 Gratings to Level Deck Pool 9
3.8 Accessories 9

4.0 WORKMANSHIP 10
4.1 Preparation Works 10
4.2 Surface Properties 10
4.3 Substrate Curing 10
4.4 Rendering 10
4.5 Tile Laying 10
4.6 Separate Un-bonded Screed 12

5.0 VERIFICATION AND SUBMISSIONS 14


5.1 Submissions 14
5.2 Samples and Mock-ups 15
5.3 Tests 15

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1.0 GENERAL
Read with the General Requirements section, and all other contract documents.

1.1 Scope
This section covers the specifications for application of finishes onto reinforced
concrete pools including mainly swimming pools. It can also be applied for water
features with similar finishes. The boundary of pools is considered up to apron drains
and joints separating apron drains from apron finishes.

1.2 Related Sections


Read this work section in conjunction with the relevant requirements of the other
work sections as follows:
A1-80-1 External Render
A4-40 Internal Tiling
A4-100 Internal Waterproofing
A3-40 External Metalwork

1.3 Standards
Unless otherwise agreed by the SO, ensure all of the Works comply with the relevant
requirements of the Standards and Codes listed below or referenced in the body of
the Specification. Alternative Standards and Codes may be submitted to the SO,
provided it can be demonstrated that the alternative Standards and Codes comply
with the requirements of the standards specified. All Standards and Codes quoted
are the current version, unless specific year references are noted.
Singapore Standards
SS 26 Ordinary Portland cement
SS 31 Aggregates from natural sources for concrete
SS 483 Ceramic tiles Definitions, classifications, characteristics and
marking
SS CP 68 Code of practice for ceramic wall and floor tiling
Other Standards
ISO 10545 Ceramic tiles
BS EN 1322 Adhesives for tiles definitions and terminology
BS 6398 Specification for bitumen damp-proof courses for masonry
BS 8000: Pt 4 Code of practice for waterproofing
ANSI A118.3 Specification for chemical resistant, water cleanable tile setting and
grouting epoxy water cleanable, tile setting epoxy adhesive
ASTM D 412 Standard Test Methods for Vulcanised Rubber and Thermoplastic
Elastomers
ASTM D 471 Standard Test Method for Rubber Property

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ASTM D 2240 Standard Test Method for Rubber Property


ASTM E96 Standard Test Method for Water Vapour Transmission of Materials

1.4 Trade Preambles

1.4.1 Contractors Submissions


The design intent for the pool finishes for the project is indicated in the drawings and
schedules. Based on the information available, engage qualified and experienced
personnel to carry out and submit the following items to the SO:

1.4.1.1 Name the product, supplier and manufacturers for the materials specified

1.4.1.2 Submit suitable waterproofing system and suitable bonding compound/


agent

1.4.1.3 Develop and complete all necessary details for the construction of the
pool finishes, including location and type of joints, pipe and services
penetration interface, waterproofing etc

1.4.1.4 Submit suitable grouting compound

1.4.1.5 Submit suitable construction methods including procedures to maintain


construction quality particularly that of waterproofing works.

1.4.1.6 Name sub-contractor(s) if any

1.4.1.7 Submit construction program including times for lead-up shop drawings,
tests, supply, fabrication and installation of the works

1.4.2 Shop Drawings


Prepare shop drawings for approval, including sections, joint and tile details, and
interfaces details with services and structural elements demonstrating conformance
with design intent as shown.

1.4.3 Co-ordination with Other Works


Co-ordinate the pool finishes works particularly the interfacing with the following
trades:
a. Concrete works: walls, base and ramps
b. Waterproofing of the general area
c. Mechanical services installations and fixtures such as pool lights
d. Other miscellaneous elements (e.g. play equipment)

1.4.4 Spare Materials


Deliver to site in strong protective packages marked for identification, and store
where directed, components and materials for future replacement and repair. Refer
to PSD for list.

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1.4.5 Warranty
Provide warranty in accordance with contract conditions for the performance of the
following items:
a. Two-Year warranty for the bonding of tiles.
b. Ten-Year indemnity for the waterproofing and watertightness of the pools.

1.4.6 Maintenance Manual


Prepare and submit a maintenance / replacement manual covering all components
and accessories. Refer to the General Requirements section, clause 1.4.8 for details.

1.4.7 Quality Control Plan


Prepare and submit a Quality Control Plan to the SO.

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2.0 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Contractors Proposals


Account for the following design input requirements when carrying out the
contractors design proposals in clause 1.4.1.

2.1.1 Structural Movement and Movement Between Works by Others


Take into account, any movements, settlement, deflection, expansion or contraction
that may affect the performance, appearance and proper functioning of the Works.
Form joints between the Works and adjacent work to account for possible structural
deflections or movement in that adjacent element, without distortion to the Works, or
disintegration of joints between works.

2.1.2 Construction Accuracy by Others


Take into account, the construction accuracy of work by others to which the Works
are attached.

2.1.3 Environmental Conditions


Take into account that the Works are able to resist exposure to weather and
moisture, consistent with the incomplete state of the construction at the time of
erection and take all necessary precautions to protect the Works under such
conditions.

2.1.4 Structural
Take into account and verify that the weight of the finishes material and accessories
are consistent with the design values assumed in the structural design of the pool.
Design all fittings and accessories to resist the loads and any incidental load imposed
in the course of usage, inspection and maintenance of the pool.
Take into account, all works remain rigid and free from measurable permanent
deformation caused by its self-weight or the normal use to which it will be subjected.

2.1.5 Functionality

2.1.5.1 Compatibility of Material


Take into account, suitability of tiling system with waterproofing system applied.

2.1.5.2 Maintenance
Develop suitable details such that the works can be easily maintainable and replaced
by the building owners.

2.1.5.3 Safety
Pool tiles shall be level, free from cracks or protrusions and will not compromise
safety or cause injury.

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3.0 MATERIALS AND COMPONENTS

3.1 Pool Finishes Systems


Refer to the PSD for the types and specific requirement of each component of the
finishes system for the project.
Ensure all materials and components in the tiling system are in accordance with
manufacturers recommendations and specifications.

3.2 Waterproofing
Use only proprietary membrane type waterproofing system to receive pool tile
finishes. Thickness to manufacturers recommendations and the membranes shall
have the following performance characteristics:
Cured Film Properties Rallable / Vertical Test Method
Horizontal
Elongation 700% 650% ASTM D412-80
Ultimate Tensile Strength 1.4 MPa 1.4 MPa ASTM D412-80
Recovery from 350% 95% 90% ASTM D412-80
Elongation
Tensile at 300% Elongation 17% 18% ASTM D412-80
Adhesion Strength (7 days 11.5kg/cm/width 11.5kg/cm/ width ASTM D412
water immersion to concrete
treated concrete primer)
Peel Strength on Concrete 20P.L.I.
Water Absorption weight 2.5% 3% ASTM D471-77
gained after 6 months
immersion
Shore A Hardness 40 40 ASTM D2240-80
Water Vapour Permeability 0.017 perms 0.017 perms ASTM E96-66
at 60 mils Procedure E
Low Temperature Ageing >500% >500% ASTM D412-80
14 days at 82C
Tensile Strength at 500% No Effect No Effect ASTM D412-80
Strain at 29C
Resistance to Chemicals Excellent Excellent SS-S-200C
and Fungus 24 hours 24 hours 75% F/50% RH

3.3 Tiles
The required types of tiles finishing are indicated in the drawings and clause 3.1 of
the PSD. For general requirements of the different types of tiles refer to section A1-
80-2 External Wall Tiling, clause 3.2.
Submit suitable product and suppliers of the tiles based on the following criteria:
Glazed Unglazed Minimum Water Resistance Abrasion Special

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Tiles - Tiles Slip Absorption to Staining Resistance Requirement


Minimum Required Resistance (WA%)
Abrasion Resistance
Resistance to Wear
(Class)
IV Heavy/ Conform to 3% Class 3 Maximum Minimum 9mm
Medium ISO 10545 (for glazed 275 thick colour fast
tiles only) within water and
chemical
environment of
swimming pool

Tiles shall be supplied with the following further requirements:


a. Dimensional and geometric tolerance not to exceed +/- 0.3% measured on any
side
b. Edge straightness not to exceed +/- 0.3%
c. Rectangularity to be within range of +0.5% to -0.3%
d. Surface flatness: centre curvature computed based on diagonal measurement not
to exceed +0.65 mm to -0.13 mm
e. Edge curvature computed from the work sides not to exceed +0.65 mm to -0.13
mm
f. Warpage computed based on diagonal measurement on work side not to exceed
+/- 0.5 mm
g. Modulus of Rupture shall be minimum 15 N/mm
h. Scratch harness of surface (Mohs) shall be minimum 3
i. Comply with SS 483

3.4 Minimum Joint Widths for Tiles


Comply with the following criteria for different types of tiles used:
Tile Type Minimum Tile Joint Width
Dust pressed* wall tiles 1.5mm
Extruded wall** tiles 6mm
Dust pressed floor tiles 3mm
Extruded floor tiles 6-10mm

3.5 Tile Beds


Take account of the suitability of Tile Beds for different substrates as follows:
Tile Bed Type Cement: Sand Mortar Adhesives Chemically
Resistant Resins
& Mortars
Bases Bonded Unbonded

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New concrete Unsuitable Suitable Unsuitable Unsuitable


<6 weeks) or
screed (<3
weeks)
Mature concrete Suitable Suitable Suitable Suitable
or screed
Screed over Unsuitable Suitable To confirm suitability To confirm
suspended floor with manufacturer suitability with
manufacturer
Tiling system to be able to achieve strength of 0.28N/mm2

3.6 Rendering
For material requirements refer to section A1-80-1 External Render, clause 3.0.

3.7 Gratings to Level Deck Pool


Provide gratings for the level deck pool.
Grating material shall be of ABS plastic and colourfast and shall have a carrying
capacity of 100kg/bar when centre point loaded. Grating shall be of solid bar
construction, anti-slip, heat resisting and easy to clean.
Supply gratings with terminals together with internal and external angle pieces.
Width of grating shall be as shown on the tender issue drawings.

3.8 Accessories
For accessories such as railings, ladders etc. refer to section A3-40 External
Metalwork, clause 3.0.

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4.0 WORKMANSHIP

4.1 Preparation Works


Ensure the swimming pools concrete walls and floors are fully cured for a minimum
one (1) month.
Position test and protect all pipe works, supply and outlet accessories, underwater
lighting etc. prior to commencement of tiling works.

4.2 Surface Properties


Take into account, the following are done before commencing tiling:
a. Mechanical key on structural walls.
b. No unevenness in the rendering of floors, walls, etc.
c. No efflorescence.
d. No recognizable tension and settlement cracks.
e. No oiled surfaces (eg from shuttering).
f. No presence of gypsum.
g. No strong suction effect for structural walls and floors.
Ensure all walls and floors, which are too dry, are thoroughly wet and free from dust,
dirt, efflorescence, etc. before applying bonding/receiving slurry course. Smooth
surfaces must be keyed and the concrete substrate must be fully cured before
commencement of any tiling work.

4.3 Substrate Curing


Before tiling, allow not less than the following times to elapse for initial drying out and
shrinkage to take place in these substrates:
a. Concrete walls & slabs: 24 days
b. Toppings on slabs or rendering on concrete walls: A further 21 days
Allow for movement joints in the tiling as instructed by pool tile manufacturer and
after confirmation with the SO.

4.4 Rendering
Supply and install rendering on waterproofing membrane as per requirement in
section A1-80-1 External Render, clause 4.0.

4.5 Tile Laying

4.5.1 Sequence for Laying of Pool Tiles


Lay pool tiles according to the following sequence:
a. Tile to overflow channel
b. Tile pool border surfaces

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c. Tile wall surfaces. (Fixing shall start from bottom of pool, preferably 2 to 3 Nos. at
one time to all sides of pool in order to avoid displacement of the mortar bed and
tiles)
d. Tile floor surfaces.
e. Tile pool curbs, footpath, pool deck and others.

4.5.2 Position of Tiles and Accessories


Plot tile layout onto the rendering/screed at two tiles interval in both direction to guide
accurate tile setting out. Take particular care to maintain the correct relationship of all
joints to architectural features.
Use only whole tiles at margins where practicable, otherwise set out to give equal
margins of cut tile unless otherwise specified or shown.
Co-ordinate final positions of accessories, fixtures and services outlets with tile layout
and in accordance with approved shop drawings.

4.5.3 Fixing Pool Tiles with Bedding/Setting Mortars


Substructure and substrate to be cured. During curing period, concrete surfaces to
be kept moist.
Limit the number of rows of tiles to be fixed in one operation for walls to 2-3 rows, so
that the lower rows in the process of setting are not loaded by the weight of the upper
rows.
No tile to be displaced while bonding agent/adhesive compound is in process of
setting.
Ensure tiles are to be fixed straight and level, and with agreed joint width, minimum
10 mm width.
All right-angles plan joints shall be mitred joints and turning or edged joint tile shall be
round edge.
Protect all tiles, which have been fixed, from the intense heat of the sun to avoid
rapid setting.

4.5.4 Grouting and Pointing


Grout and point tiles with un-sanded grout filler recommended by manufacturers.
Submit colours to the SO prior to the Works.
Pack all joints full and free of all voids by using the appropriate rubber trowel and
allow for initial cure until joints are firm.

4.5.5 Cleaning
Clean using nylon-buffing pads and or tile cleaning agent if grout residue remains
after 24 hours. No acid cleaners allowed.
Remove surplus mortar and adhering cement. Do not clean before the joint mortar
has properly set.

4.5.6 Upon Completion of Tiles Laying and Pointing


No traffic or loading allowed on completed tiles for 4 days.

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Temporary weather protection shall be installed before, during and after completion
of tile installation. No removal of temporary weather protection until tile installation
has completed curing.
Fill pool with water only after a minimum of one (1) month.

4.5.7 Expansion/Contraction Joints in Finishes


Provide contraction/expansion joints on the pool deck, pool wall and floor finishes as
recommended by manufacturers and as shown on approved shop drawings or as
directed.
Provide expansion/contraction joints through the finishes (at tile joints) to coincide
with contraction, construction or expansion joints in the pool slab and wall etc. as
indicated on the tender issue drawings or as recommended by manufacturers and
approved by the SO.
Unless otherwise approved joints shall comprise 10mm wide x 10mm deep one part
moisture curing polyurethane non sag permanently flexible sealant of approved
colour used in accordance with manufacturers recommendations and supported on
10mm wide x approximately 23mm deep self expanding cork joint filler.
Unless otherwise approved use polyethylene filler for forming all expansion/
contraction joints prior to sealant application.

4.6 Separate Un-bonded Screed


Where indicated on tender issue drawings, lay granolithic screed to previously laid
concrete slab.
Use approved galvanised mesh, shot fire to the concrete slab, or equal and approved
(to reduce surface cracking/concrete curling).
The granolithic shall be 75 mm thick, and laid in panels to reflect any structural
movement joints formed in the structural slab.
Form and point movement joints in the full depth of screed with a 2-part sealant
(Thioflex 600 or equal and approved).

4.6.1 Hardener
Apply 2 coats of proprietary concrete hardener to prevent concrete abrasion and
dusting on completion of the Works, and after the concrete slab or screed has dried.

4.6.2 Mixing
Do not use admixtures containing calcium chloride.
Water content of mixes shall be the minimum necessary to achieve full compaction,
low enough to prevent excessive water being brought to the surface during
compaction.
Mix materials thoroughly to a uniform consistence. Mixes other than no-fines must be
mixed in a suitable forced action mechanical mixer: do not use a free fall type (drum)
mixer.
Use while sufficiently plastic for full compaction.

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4.6.3 Finish

4.6.3.1 Wood Floated Finish


Use a wood float to give an even slightly coarse texture with no ridges or steps.

4.6.3.2 Trowel Finish


Trowel finish to receive applied floor finishes.
Float to an even surface with no ridges or steps.
Hand or power trowel to give a uniform smooth but not polished surface free from
trowel marks and other blemishes and suitable to receive the specified flooring
material.
Adequately protect the surface from construction traffic.

4.6.4 Curing
Unless otherwise specified:
a. Protect surface from rain, wind, draughts and strong sunlight immediately after
laying.
b. Closely cover with polythene sheeting and keep in position for not less than 7
days as soon as screed/topping has set.
c. Do not heat screeds/toppings or the building artificially during first 4 to 6 weeks
after laying, thereafter raise temperature slowly.

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5.0 VERIFICATION AND SUBMISSIONS

5.1 Submissions

5.1.1 Submissions
Refer to the General Requirements section, clause 5.0.

5.1.2 Materials
Submit the following documentation relating to all tiles, accessories and components
related to the tiling system inspection and approval:
a. Trade brochure
b. Technical documentation from manufacturer
c. Test Certificates from accredited testing authority
d. Documentation testifying suitability of agreed fixtures and fittings to be used with
pool structure and tiling system.

5.1.3 Contractors Documents


Comply with General Requirements for installation strategy drawings and shop
drawings.

5.1.3.1 Concept Drawings


Prepare concept drawings to demonstrate the Design Development in Principle,
prior to the preparation of shop drawings.

5.1.3.2 Shop Drawings


Prepare shop drawings showing clear and complete details of each assembly,
component and connection together with detailed information relative to their
fabrication, material, surface treatment and erection.
Prepare shop drawings in a professional manner experienced personnel. Mark-ups
and Over Notes on the tender issue drawings will not be accepted as shop
drawings.
The shop drawings shall include but not limited to details as follows:
a. Setting out plans
b. Sectional details of typical and non-typical elements and associated elements.
c. Sectional details of all interfaces with adjoining structures and disciplines.
d. Dimensions of overall assembly
e. Procedures and sequence to produce distortion-free components and
assemblies.
f. Identification of type and extent of protective coatings to be applied.
Do not commence fabrication until the shop drawings have been reviewed.

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5.1.3.3 Method of Installation


a. Type and location of attachments to be built in to the structure.
b. Junctions and trim to adjoining surfaces.
c. Methods of meeting performance requirements for fire resistance, sound
transmission and the like.

5.1.4 Maintenance Manual


Submit maintenance manual as required in the companion volume, including
technical information, inspection forms, material certificates and endorsement by
specialists if called for.

5.1.5 Warranty
Submit waterproofing warranty at least one month before completion, and the others
upon completion of the works.

5.1.6 Quality Control Plan Submission


Prepare and submit the quality control plan to the SO prior to starting work.

5.2 Samples and Mock-ups

5.2.1 Samples
Submit control tile samples including tile accessories, adhesion components/bonding
agents, grouting compounds, waterproofing proposal for entire tiling system including
agreed fixtures. Sample panels will not form part of the Works and shall include
installation of selected tiles, patterns, tile accessories, floor grilles and movement
joints and any other equipment relating to the pool as directed by the SO.

5.2.2 Mock-ups
Carry out mock-ups of tiling system at agreed locations, incorporating:
a. All types of joints to be used for the pool in particular expansion joints
b. Typical fixing detail for fixtures to be installed with the pool
Provide photographs of each stage successfully completed for verification.
Refer to PSD for format and quantity of photographs to be submitted.

5.3 Tests

5.3.1 Schedule of Tests


Refer to the PSD for the schedule of tests required for the project.

5.3.2 Water Test


Carry out water test after completion of the structure and water proofing system but
before installation of pool finishes.

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Fill pool to overflow. Allow water to stand for 24 hours to allow for absorption of
water. Thereafter top up water to overflow level and leave undisturbed. Leave for 7
days. Drop in water level to be less than 10 mm after accounting for evaporation.
Provide evaporation control measure at site, monitor and report to SOs satisfaction.
If directed by SO, conduct water test for another 7 days after completion of finishes.
Provide all necessary water supply as required and dispose of water upon
completion of test. Retest and re-coat overlaid areas until such retreated areas pass
the water test. Replace damaged or wet materials damaged in the course of removal
for correction and re-coating due to leaks in membrane. Install protection layer
immediately after the acceptance of the water test.

5.3.3 Shear Test


Carry out shear test if required.

5.3.4 Reverse Staining Test


Carry out reverse staining test if required as indicated:
a. 5 complete tiles randomly selected based on colour consistency from different
pallets
b. Tiles to be dried in ventilated oven at 105 deg C for 48 hours
c. Invert tile with exposed surface facing downwards pond back of tile with portable
water to a minimum diameter of 50 mm
d. Inspect tile surface after 30 minutes in outdoor daylight for noticeable darkening
of tile surface
e. Repeat test on another 5 tiles selected on similar basis using 2% methylene blue
solution in lieu of portable water. Check for noticeable darkening.

5.3.5 Pull-out Test


Conduct tensile pull-out test within 21 to 28 days after tile installation:
a. Random tile location for every 50 square meter of tiled surface
b. Average test result shall not be less than 0.3 N/mm2
c. Locations selected for tensile test to be re installed.
d. Test(s) to be carried out by approved testing authorities / laboratories

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