Camp Na-Wa-Kwa (Girl Scouts) | Poland, IN

Wave Divider

Project Outline

In 2008, Mid-America Pool Renovation completed a full restoration of the large outdoor swimming pool at Camp Na-Wa-Kwa, a Girl Scouts facility in Poland, Indiana. The pool had previously been shot-creted and plastered, then later retrofitted with a PVC liner as a corrective solution.

After years of use, the PVC liner deteriorated, developing folds, discoloration, pinholes, and tears that led to water loss. Moisture trapped beneath the liner was repeatedly exposed to freeze-thaw cycles, causing significant hidden damage to the underlying plaster and concrete.

Project Specifications:

Challenges Solved

  • Subsurface Structural Decay:  Yearly freeze/thaw cycles trapped water under the liner, which expanded and literally tore apart chunks of the pool's concrete foundation.
  • Biological Contamination:  The removal process uncovered a disintegrating and mold-filled felt backing that had become a breeding ground for contaminants beneath the scouts' feet.
  • Undetected Shell Fractures:  Once the liner was cleared, the team identified and addressed deep structural cracks in the shell that had been contributing to steady water loss.
  • Surface Disintegration:  Chunks of broken concrete had to be manually removed, and the surface stabilized before a new finish could be applied.

Special Considerations

  • Active Water Management:  To combat hydrostatic pressure during the build, a diaphragm pumping system was deployed to keep the shell dry and stable for the repair phase.
  • Permanent Joint Sealing:  All structural cracks were reinforced with InterSteel and a high-grade epoxy sealant to ensure the shell would remain watertight.
  • Safety Upgrades:  The renovation included the addition of a frost-proof tiled depth transition line, providing a clear and durable safety marker for swimmers.
  • High-Pressure Prep:  The team used water pressure exceeding 5,000 psi to blast away remaining debris and ensure the new composite system achieved an unbreakable bond.

From Our Team

“Damage and corrosion beneath an unbonded sheet lining can proceed unnoticed for several years.”

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