There are few better exercises than swimming and few better ways to relax than spending time in a pool. Over time, you might notice cracks form along the surface or deck. Sometimes these cracks are easily fixed. In other cases, a building contractor should be contacted for repairs. If you’ve noticed cracks in your pool, consult the guide below for assistance.

Common Concerns of Pool Maintenance 

What Are The Types of Pool Cracks?

There are two types of pool cracks: surface and structural. Surface cracks are hairline and shallow. While pool surfaces can last for decades, wear and tear may eventually cause these small, shrinkage cracks to appear. Their damage is usually cosmetic, and rarely mean the pool is leaking.

Structural cracks are much thicker, and usually, indicate that the pool is leaking. When construction shortcuts are taken around the concrete deck and retaining walls, pools are likely to develop deep structural cracks. Simple mistakes, such as using too much or too little water in the concrete mixture can contribute to leaking.

If a pool is built around clay-heavy soil, it is more likely to develop structural cracks over time. The clay absorbs moisture and expands, eventually creating enough pressure to damage the foundational shell of a pool.

Can They Be Repaired?

Repairing surface cracks are often more about aesthetics than practicality. Building contractors usually aren’t needed to repair hairline plaster cracks. Sealants like pool putty, caulk, or plaster repair mixtures can be applied to the crack to close it. In older models, you may want to consider resurfacing the pool, which covers cracks and discolorations that have occurred over time. Resurfacing can be a more complicated procedure, so most people prefer hiring building contractors rather than do it themselves. 

Structural cracks indicate advanced damage. Building contractors are needed to determine what caused the cracks and how to repair it so that it doesn’t happen again. Resurfacing will cover structural cracks, but not repair the leaks.

If your pool is cracked and in need of remodeling, contact Curtis Law Construction. They are building contractors with nearly 50 years of commercial and residential experience. They’ve taken on projects from homebuilding to full exterior facade remodels of churches and emergency duct work for large buildings. Outside of their high-quality work, Curtis Law Construction is deeply passionate and involved in the Kauai community, serving on the Board of Directors of Haleopio, which has provided education and treatment programs for over 10,000 troubled youth. Begin your next project by calling them at (808) 246-0676. To view some of their completed projects, visit their website.