The Different Types of Swimming Pool Cracks and What They Mean
Swimming pools are a great addition to any home, but they can also be a source of stress if cracks begin to form. While not all cracks cause alarm, knowing the difference between surface and structural cracks and what each type of crack means for your pool is crucial.
Take a deep dive with us as we examine different types of pool cracks and what they might indicate.
Hairline Cracks:
One of the most common types of cracks is known as a hairline crack. These cracks are usually very fine and barely visible to the naked eye.
While they may not be particularly problematic from a structural standpoint, they can still allow water to seep into the pool, which can lead to other problems down the road.
Spider Cracks:
Pool spider cracks are another common type of crack that can occur in both gunite and fiberglass pools.
They get their name from their spider-like appearance, as they typically consist of a small group of radial cracks radiating out from a central point and are usually caused by improper curing of the concrete or plaster.
These cracks are typically caused by ground movement or poor construction and can be challenging to repair.
Leakage Cracks:
These cracks allow water to leak out of the pool and can be a severe problem. Leakage cracks can be caused by age, wear and tear, or damage from an earthquake or other disaster.
Structural cracks:
These cracks run deep and can cause serious problems if they are not repaired properly.
Structural cracks can be caused by settling, poor construction, or damage from an earthquake or other disaster.
If you see any cracks in your pool, it's vital to have them inspected by a professional to pinpoint the cause and the best way to repair them.
Cracks can be improved with patching materials, epoxy, or other methods, depending on the type and severity of the crack.
Conclusion
A swimming pool crack can be a surface or structural issue. If the crack is on the surface, it is most likely due to age and weathering.
If the crack is structural, there is a problem with the underlying support structure. A professional should fix a structural crack as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If a pool is not correctly designed and engineered, it can develop cracks. These cracks can be caused by several factors, including poor construction, ground movement, and extreme weather conditions.
While some cracks are purely cosmetic and pose no threat to the pool's structural integrity, others can indicate more severe problems that need to be addressed.
