Ideal step dimensions for 4' shallow end with bench

[NEBackYard]

If you have a 4' shallow end and steps:

• How many steps do you have, and what is the height of each step?
• What is the depth from your pool deck to the waterline?
• Is the 2nd step comfortable to use a bench?
• Can you comfortably reach for drinks on the pool deck from the 2nd step?

We are having a pool installed next month, and I would like to have a 4' deep end, but I'm struggling with how exactly that would implement the steps. Additionally, my pool builder has said that he "needs to keep the depth at 3.5' so the risers are uniform." If respond that the code says different, I would like to propose a design instead of just being a difficult client for him.

• I don't know what the planned distance is from the top of the pool deck to the waterline is (I assume 6")
• Current planned shallow end water depth of 3.5'
• Current plan is to have the 2nd step extend into a bench for the shallow end
• I think a 4' shallow end depth would be nicer (I think people comfortably stand in 4' above ground pools, but crouch in 3.5' IG shallow ends)
• My state/town follows the international pool spa code,
  • the first and last steps may be different heights as long as they are less than 12",
  • all other steps must be uniform in height and less than 12"

The best thing I can come up with is as follows:

• Step 1: 9" Deck to first step (6" of air + 3" of water)
• Step 2: 12" Bench (15" water depth, 21" seatback height)
• Step 3: 12"
• Step 4: 12"
• Step 5: 9" Stairs to pool bottom

 

[kimkats]

Let me call in someone who might have a good idea on this one @AQUA~HOLICS any input on this one?

 

[AQUA~HOLICS]

I provided a picture of a typical first step Baja shelf with 7” of water on top of the shelf.
Your calculations as I understand them for the firs step would have the plaster directly at the bottom of the tile line (3” of deck thickness , 6” of vertical tile then the step) am I understanding your calculations correctly?

 

[NEBackYard]

Its a Vinyl pool, so I don't think there won't be waterline tile

 

[AQUA~HOLICS]

Sorry, I have no experience with vinyl liner pools.

 

[NEBackYard]

@AQUA~HOLICS do you have a recommended step dimensions for a 4' pool?