This topic includes information related to design and construction of below-grade swimming pools.  Below-grade swimming pools are fabricated containers that hold water for the purpose of swimming and recreation.  Below-grade swimming pools are typically installed in residential and recreational applications.  They are field assembled from raw materials or pre-engineered components.

This topic includes information related to design and construction of on-grade swimming pools.  On-grade swimming pools are fabricated containers that hold water for the purpose of swimming and recreation.  On-grade swimming pools are typically installed in residential applications.  They are field assembled from pre-engineered components.

This topic includes information related to design and construction of fountains.  Fountains are architectural water features that project or pour water for functional reasons, dramatic effect and/or decoration.  They are commonly found in residential gardens, public locations and near commercial buildings.

This topic includes information related to design and construction of aquariums.  Aquariums are containers that inhabit freshwater and saltwater animals and plants.  Aquariums have transparent glass or plastic surfaces that allow individuals to view the contained aquatic animals and plants.  Sizes range from small bowls for one or two fish to large exhibition tanks that contain entire ecosystems.

This topic includes information related to design and construction of hot tubs.  Hot tubs are manufactured appliances that are used for therapeutic reasons or general relaxation.  Water is heated by energy; electric, gas, wood or solar.  Hot tubs are commonly located in the outdoor environment near residential or recreational facilities.

This topic includes information related to design and construction of therapeutic pools.  Therapeutic pools are used by physical therapy, recreational and medical facilities for individuals with unique symptoms that can be rehabilitated or comforted via aquatic therapy.  Therapeutic pools are field assembled from raw materials or pre-engineered components.

This topic includes information related to design and construction of ice rinks.  Ice rinks are indoor or outdoor frozen water surfaces that enable individuals to ice skate or participate in winter sport activities.  Equipment, piping, floor systems, and surrounding enclosures are essential components of ice rinks to ensure an adequately controlled environment and ice surface.

This topic includes information related to design and construction of kennels and animal shelters.  Kennels and animal shelters house and provide medical care to animals.  Kennels and shelters are manufactured assemblies for indoor and outdoor use.

Swimming pools range in size from small inflatable pools to large Olympic size pools, and the even larger pools now used at water parks. Pools can be classified as either above-ground or in-ground; however, there are variations of these classifications which are designed and constructed to fit the circumstances. Above-ground pools are generally constructed of vinyl and metal or wood; they are easy to build and less costly to construct than in-ground pools, but are less durable. In-ground pools can be constructed of a number of different products, including fiberglass, steel and concrete. Pools constructed inside buildings require appropriately designed equipment to ensure appropriate humidity levels and the required ventilation.

According to the Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components, which was prepared in 2007 by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the average life expectancy of a whirlpool tub is 20-50 years (number based on the fixture itself, not the circulation system). The life expectancy of the circulation system (the pump, fittings, and piping) will vary depending on the amount of use. A whirlpool tub should be maintained like any other bathtub or shower, with one exception: what you don't see. A whirlpool tub's circulation system isn't readily visible, providing a perfect environment for the growth of bacteria.