Installing steel (also called "rebar") is one of the most important structural phases of your pool. We always use half-inch diameter rebar (most companies use three-eighths diameter). Half-inch rebar has much more structure strength; this strength is a vital component to keep your pool from cracking.
The rebar is installed on ten inch centers, with an additional bar layed in the break and curves of the pool to create a "ten on five" center. This also helps with the stress point in the pool. The beam of the pool has a continuous 4 bar bond beam, establishing the upper lip of the pool. This lip holds the weight of the pool and water much like the top lip of a trash can. The 4 bar bond beam even extends up and around the spa with the use of "Z" bars, so the pool strength is not compromised by the spa placed on it's beam.