Cracks in a concrete pool are always a concern. Not all cracks are the same, and depending on the nature of the crack, it could mean any number of problems. You want to know the differences in each type of crack, understand their signs and know when you have to get repairs. Here are the basics of dealing with cracks in your concrete pool.
Different Types of Cracks
Concrete pool cracks come in two main types. Knowing the differences between the two will make it easier to understand how to address them.
First, there are surface cracks. These tend to refer to cracks that are in your swimming pool’s shell, and they don’t usually penetrate more deeply than your plaster finish. As a result, they don’t usually cause leaks, and they tend to mainly only be concerning for cosmetic purposes.
Then, we have structural cracks. These are more serious because they go deeper than surface cracks. This means leaks can happen as a result of structural cracks.
What Causes Structural Cracks?
There are a few reasons a structural crack can appear. Sometimes, the pool isn’t built the right way, whether it was installed improperly or made from insufficient materials. Shifting soil is another concern that can cause settling and cracking for your concrete pool. If the ground beneath your pool moves, the movement it causes for your pool can result in cracks forming as well. Lastly, freezing and thawing cycles can be an issue because they cause water to expand and compact. The constant shifting from expansion to compaction can result in pool leaks.
Signs That Your Concrete Pool Has Structural Cracks
These are the signs that will indicate your concrete pool has structural cracks in it.
- Your pool loses water
- You have pool leak tests that show up as positive
- The pool looks deeper than normal
In addition to these signs, you might have a surface crack if your plaster is flaking off, but your concrete remains intact.
Admiral Pools is Your Complete Swimming Pool Resource
Admiral Pools LLC is a multi-faceted company involved in the construction and renovation of all types of in-ground swimming pools, serving Baltimore, Harford, and Cecil Counties of Maryland and Southern Pennsylvania. Admiral Pools does the vast majority of our work with in-house personnel, and we pride ourselves on being a turnkey operation that provides retaining walls, hardscaping, fencing, and outdoor lighting. Customers can visit our retail location and showroom in Abingdon, MD, to purchase pool chemicals, as well as above-ground pools, spas, parts, maintenance equipment, pool games, and toys. Admiral Pools of Maryland is dedicated to providing our customers with the highest quality swimming pools, the best service, and a complete selection of parts and chemicals the retail industry has to offer. Contact Admiral Pool’s representative through our website today to receive your free quote, or call us at 1-866-297-POOL (7665). Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Pinterest for all of the latest updates and news in the recreational water industry.