Can I Fix Swimming Pool Cracks in a Cement Pool?

Most homeowners opt for a preformed swimming pool when they’re installing a new pool – and with good reason. They have many added benefits which stack up and tip the balance of practicality when compared with a concrete pool. However, if you already have a concrete or cement pool, which is starting to show its age a little, swimming pool cracks are likely to appear.

How Serious is it?

Not all pool cracks are going to result in re-mortgaging your house to fix them though. Let’s take a look:

Check Cracks

If you’ve done any renovations on your pool or recently emptied/refilled it and you see cracks resembling a roadmap, you’re probably looking at check cracks. Also known as closed shrinkage cracks, these are commonplace in cement pools are become noticeable when the water in the swimming pool is absorbed into these tiny crevices. For the most part, these are nothing to worry about and will settle after 24 hours.

Open Shrinkage Cracks

Open shrinkage cracks look much the same as check cracks but persist 24 hours after the pool has been refilled. These are deeper and permanent and will result in leakage or long-term damage to your pool.

Structural Cracks

Yep, this one is more of a problem and more likely to be present in an older cement pool. Ground movement, tree roots, incorrect design or installation, or underground water can all contribute to structural or tensile cracks. The reason for the crack will determine the remedy. For example, removing the problem tree will prevent further cracking. However, if improper installation is the problem then you may be looking at a bigger fix.

It can be a tough call as to whether to fix, replace or fill in a swimming pool when cracks occur. We’d like to recommend that you chat with one of our skilled pool specialists for advice on the best option on assessing and fixing your swimming pool cracks.