Are cracks in your pool dangerous? Depending on the situation, they very well can be. As summer approaches, many pool owners are preparing to open up their pools for the season. That said, the elements can wreak havoc on pools that weren’t properly prepared at the end of the previous season. If you remove your pool cover and discover cracks in the stone, there is a question of safety that needs to be addressed.
Read on to learn more. In today’s post, we will discuss the seriousness of pool cracks and provide some basic guidance on repairing them. Additionally, we’ll help you to determine when it’s time to call a professional.
Causes of Cracks in Your Pool
Pool structures can develop cracks over time due to various factors. Natural wear and tear from years of use, as well as exposure to different weather conditions, can contribute to crack formation. Additionally, ground shifting or accidental damage can lead to cracks in the pool.
As we mentioned above, weather plays a major role in your pool’s integrity. Extreme temperature fluctuations, and even earthquakes, can cause the concrete to expand or contract, resulting in cracks in your pool. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of potential conditions that may impact the stability of your pool.
Believe it or not, problems can even begin during the initial pool installation. During the installation process, make sure that your land is level. Otherwise, the uneven ground can result in irreparable damage to the pool. When hiring a contractor to install a pool, be sure to check and double-check their reviews and credentials. After all, besides drowning danger, a leaky or damaged pool can cause massive damage to your wallet as well.
That’s a Lot of Damage!
Depending on the construction, cracks in your pool can occur in multiple spots. These can include the gel coating, plaster, or even the tiles. The severity of the cracks varies from minor web-like cracks or more extensive cracks that necessitate pool draining and plaster restoration.
Regardless of the crack’s size, it is crucial to address it promptly. Swiftness is definitely essential when it comes to preventing further damage. Waiting too long can result in significant structural issues and even impact the surrounding areas.
Repairing Cracks in Your Pool: DIY or Call in the Pros?
For small cracks, you can often make the repairs yourself. First, make sure the crack is free from debris. Next, fill the damaged area with clear outdoor silicone or pool patch. Once filled, smooth out any excess material. An advantage of using pool patch is that it can be applied while the pool is still full, saving you the hassle of draining it.
This video by a pool owner helps to demonstrate the basics of pool crack repair:
Moderate cracks typically require pool draining. For these repairs, pool plaster is recommended, and it can be purchased at most hardware stores. After filling the crack, you can refill the pool since the plaster can still cure the area underwater.
For serious cracks in your pool, it is time to hire a professional. Additionally, the pool will need to be fully drained. Contacting a concrete company with expertise in pool repairs is crucial. You want to make sure that it is properly repaired. As mentioned above, serious cracks can be dangerous for swimmers as well as your property.
