Concrete pools are a fantastic choice for homeowners looking for a durable, long-lasting, and fully customizable swimming pool. Unlike fibreglass or vinyl pools, pools made with concrete can be built in any shape or size, making them ideal for unique backyard designs. They also stand up well to wear and tear, lasting for 40 to 50 years with proper care.

However, while concrete pools are strong, they’re not without challenges. Over time, they can develop issues like cracks, rough surfaces, stains, leaks, and algae growth—all of which can affect their appearance, functionality, and maintenance costs. Some of these problems are minor and easy to fix, while others may require professional attention.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common problems with concrete pools, explain why they happen, and provide practical solutions to keep your pool in top shape. Whether you’re a current pool owner or are considering installing a concrete pool, this guide will help you avoid costly repairs and enjoy a trouble-free swimming experience for years to come. Let’s dive in!

1. Cracking: Hairline Fractures vs. Structural Damage

Concrete pools are built to be strong, but over time, cracks can develop. Some are purely cosmetic, while others can lead to serious structural issues. Understanding the difference between minor hairline fractures and deep structural cracks is key to preventing bigger problems down the road.

Why It Happens

Several factors can contribute to cracks in a concrete pool:

Natural Ground Movement: Soil shifts over time, especially in areas with expansive clay or unstable ground, putting pressure on the pool shell.
Poor Construction or Improper Curing: Concrete that wasn’t properly mixed, reinforced, or allowed to cure correctly may be more prone to cracking.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles (Colder Climates): In colder regions, water can seep into tiny cracks, freeze, expand, and cause the cracks to widen over time.

Signs to Watch For

Hairline Cracks: These are thin, surface-level cracks that don’t penetrate deep into the structure. They’re often caused by normal wear and tear or minor ground movement. While they may not affect the pool’s function, they can lead to rough surfaces or allow algae to grow if left untreated.
Structural Cracks: These are deeper, more serious cracks that can cause leaks and compromise the integrity of the pool. They often extend through the entire thickness of the concrete and may lead to water loss or damage to the surrounding area.

How to Fix It

Minor Cracks: Hairline fractures can usually be sealed using epoxy or polyurethane sealants. These materials bond well with concrete and prevent water from seeping in and making the crack worse.
Structural Cracks: If cracks are deep or causing leaks, a professional assessment is necessary. Repairs may include injecting high-strength epoxy, adding new reinforcements, or even resurfacing parts of the pool.

Prevention Tips

Proper Soil Preparation: Before building a concrete pool, a thorough site analysis should be done to assess soil stability. In some cases, compacting the Soil or adding a reinforced foundation can help prevent shifting.
Regular Inspections: Check for small cracks regularly and address them early before they grow into bigger problems.
Maintain Proper Water Chemistry: Keeping the right pH and calcium levels in the water helps protect the concrete from premature wear and erosion.

Cracks are among the most common concrete pool problems. However, with early detection and proper maintenance, you can prevent them from turning into costly repairs.

2. Rough Pool Surface: Erosion and Discomfort

A concrete pool is meant to provide a smooth, enjoyable swimming experience. Still, over time, the surface can become rough and abrasive. If left unchecked, this can lead to uncomfortable swimming conditions, increased algae buildup, and even damage to swimsuits or pool equipment.

Why It Happens

Several factors contribute to a rough pool surface:

Natural Wear Over Time: Concrete pools, especially those with plaster finishes, will naturally wear down over the years due to water movement, use, and ageing materials.
Harsh Chemicals: Overuse of chemicals like chlorine or improper pH balance can weaken the plaster, making it rough and more prone to erosion.
Poor Plaster Application: If the pool’s interior wasn’t properly troweled or finished during installation, it might start rougher than normal or deteriorate more quickly.

Effects on Swimmers

A rough pool surface isn’t just an eyesore—it can also be a safety and comfort issue:

Skin Irritation and Scrapes: Swimmers may experience scratched feet, hands, or knees from the rough surface.
Algae Growth: A rough surface provides more crevices for algae to cling to, making it harder to keep the pool clean.
Increased Maintenance Needs: More frequent brushing and chemical adjustments are required to prevent algae and mineral buildup.

Solutions

Light Sanding or Acid Washing: If the roughness is mild, light sanding or an acid wash can help smooth out the surface and remove buildup. Acid washing should be done sparingly, as it removes a thin layer of plaster each time.
Resurfacing with a Smoother Finish: For severe roughness, resurfacing the pool with new plaster, tile, or a pebble finish is the best long-term solution. This will restore the pool’s smooth feel and extend its lifespan.
Maintain Balanced Water Chemistry: Prevent further erosion by keeping pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels balanced. Proper chemistry helps preserve the integrity of the plaster and reduces premature wear.

A rough concrete pool surface can be a nuisance. Still, with regular maintenance and the right repair approach, you can keep your pool feeling smooth and comfortable for years to come.

3. High Maintenance and Chemical Absorption

Concrete pools are known for their durability, but they also require more maintenance than other pool types. One of the biggest reasons is that concrete is naturally porous, meaning it absorbs water and chemicals more readily than fibreglass or vinyl pools. This leads to more frequent chemical balancing, higher chlorine demand, and overall increased upkeep.

Why It Happens

Concrete Is Porous: Unlike fibreglass or vinyl, concrete allows water and chemicals to seep into its surface, making it harder to maintain stable water chemistry.
Frequent Chemical Adjustments: Because the pool constantly absorbs and releases chemicals, pH levels fluctuate more often, requiring more frequent monitoring and balancing.
Higher Chlorine Demand: Since algae can cling to the rough surface of concrete, more chlorine is needed to keep the water clean and clear.

Common Issues

pH Levels Fluctuate More Often: Concrete naturally leaches alkaline materials into the water, which can cause the On average, every 10–15 years, it depends on water chemistry, usage, and maintenance. more frequently than in other pool types.
Increased Chlorine Consumption: Because concrete pools provide more surface area for algae and bacteria to grow, they often require higher chlorine levels to stay properly sanitized.

How to Manage It

Regularly Monitor and Adjust Water Chemistry: Test and adjust pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels at least once or twice a week to prevent imbalances. Keeping your pool chemistry in check will reduce wear on the plaster and extend the life of your pool finish.
Use a Pool Sealer: Applying a high-quality sealer to the pool’s surface can reduce porosity, helping the concrete absorb fewer chemicals and require less frequent adjustments.
Consider Alternative Sanitization Methods:
- Saltwater Systems – Generate chlorine more consistently and require less manual adjustment.
- Ozone or UV Systems – Help reduce chlorine demand by killing bacteria and algae more effectively.
- Mineral-Based Systems – Use elements like copper and silver to reduce bacteria and algae growth naturally.

While concrete pools require more effort to maintain, staying on top of water chemistry and using the right treatments can make upkeep much easier. With the right approach, you can keep your concrete pool in perfect condition while reducing maintenance time and costs.

4. Algae Growth: A Persistent Problem

Algae can be a headache for any pool owner, but concrete pools are especially prone to it. Because concrete has a rough, porous surface, it provides the perfect environment for algae to cling and grow. If not addressed, algae buildup can make the pool unsightly, slippery, and even unsafe for swimming.

Why It Happens

Porous Surface: Unlike fibreglass or vinyl pools, concrete pools have a textured surface with tiny pores where algae spores can settle and multiply.
Inconsistent Chemical Balance: If chlorine levels drop or pH and alkalinity are off, algae can quickly take hold and spread.
Poor Filtration & Circulation: Stagnant water, clogged filters, or dead spots in the pool (areas with little water movement) allow algae to thrive.

Prevention & Treatment

✅ Regular Brushing & Vacuuming

Brush the pool walls and floor at least twice a week to remove algae spores before they take hold.
Use a stiff-bristle brush for plaster pools and a softer brush for smoother finishes like tile or pebble.
Vacuum the pool to remove loosened algae and debris.

✅ Shocking the Pool When Needed

Shock treatments (super-chlorination) help kill algae spores before they spread.
Regularly shock the pool after heavy use, rain, or when chlorine levels drop to prevent outbreaks.

✅ Keeping Chlorine Levels Optimal

Maintain chlorine levels between 1–3 ppm (parts per million) to keep algae at bay.
Use algaecide as a preventive measure, especially in warmer months when algae growth is more common.
Ensure the filtration system runs at least 8–12 hours a day to keep the water circulating and prevent stagnant areas.

5. Scaling and Calcium Buildup

Calcium buildup, also known as scaling, is a common issue in concrete pools, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, white, chalky deposits can form on the pool’s walls and floor, making the surface rough and unappealing. If left untreated, scaling can lead to clogged filters, reduced water circulation, and long-term surface damage.

Why It Happens

High Calcium Hardness in Water: If your pool water has excess calcium, it can settle on the pool’s surface and equipment.
pH and Alkalinity Imbalances: When pH and alkalinity are too high, calcium particles come out of the water and stick to the pool walls.
Warm Water & Evaporation: In warmer climates, water evaporates quickly, leaving behind mineral deposits that contribute to scaling.

Signs to Look For

White, Chalky Deposits: A white or greyish film on the waterline, steps, or pool walls is a common sign of calcium buildup.
Rough or Crusty Surface Texture: If your pool surface feels rough or has crust-like patches, scaling is likely the cause.

How to Fix It

✅ Scrubbing with a Pumice Stone or Brush

For mild calcium buildup, a pumice stone or stiff-bristle brush can help remove deposits from plaster or tile surfaces.

Never use abrasive tools on fibreglass or delicate finishes—opt for a softer scrubbing pad instead.

✅ Using Specialized Calcium Removers

Acid-based calcium removers or vinegar solutions can dissolve stubborn deposits.

If the buildup is severe, professional cleaning with a mild acid wash may be required.

✅ Adjusting Water Chemistry

To prevent calcium from solidifying on surfaces, maintain proper pH (7.2–7.6) and alkalinity (80–120 ppm).

If calcium levels are too high (above 400 ppm), consider partially draining and refilling your pool with softer water.

Use a sequestering agent to bind excess calcium and prevent it from forming deposits.

6. Stains and Discoloration

A concrete pool should always look clean and inviting, but stains and discolouration can make it appear dirty or aged. Staining can come from organic materials, metals, or chemical imbalances, each requiring a different approach for removal and prevention.

Causes of Stains

Organic Stains: Leaves, algae, and debris can leave behind green, brown, or yellow stains on the pool surface.
Metal Stains: Iron, copper, and manganese in the water can cause rust-like stains, often appearing orange, red, or blue-green.
Chemical Imbalance: High or low pH, alkalinity, or calcium hardness can lead to plaster discolouration, making the pool look dull or blotchy.

Solutions

✅ Regular Brushing & Stain Removal Products

Brush the pool walls weekly to prevent stains from setting in.
Use a stain eraser or pool stain remover for tough spots.

✅ Testing & Adjusting Chemical Levels

Maintain proper pH (7.2–7.6) and chlorine levels (1–3 ppm) to prevent discolouration.
Shock the pool as needed to break down organic stains.

✅ Using Metal Sequestrants for Metal Stains

If stains are caused by iron or copper, a metal sequestrant can help bind metals and prevent staining.
If the issue persists, check for corroding pool equipment or high metal content in your water source.

7. Pool Leaks: Detecting and Fixing Water Loss

A leaking pool can be a serious issue, leading to higher water bills, structural damage, and soil erosion. While all pools lose some water due to evaporation, excessive water loss is a sign of a bigger problem.

Why It Happens

Structural Cracks: Deep cracks in the pool shell can lead to leaks.
Plumbing Issues: Underground plumbing leaks can cause water loss without visible cracks.
Poor Initial Construction: Improper waterproofing or weak structural integrity may lead to slow leaks over time.

Signs of a Leak

Significant Water Loss: If water levels drop by more than ¼ to ½ inch per day, you may have a leak.
Wet Spots or Erosion Around the Pool: Unexplained puddles, soft Soil, or sinking areas near the pool could indicate an underground leak.

How to Fix It

✅ Perform a Bucket Test to Confirm a Leak

Place a bucket of water on the pool steps and mark the water levels inside and outside the bucket.
If the pool water drops faster than the bucket’s water level, a leak is likely.

✅ Use Leak Sealants for Minor Issues

Small leaks in plumbing fittings or minor cracks can often be repaired with pool leak sealers.

✅ Hire a Professional for Major Structural Repairs

If the leak is coming from a crack in the pool shell or underground pipes, a pool repair expert is needed for long-term solutions.

8. High Cost of Upkeep

Concrete pools are built to last, but they require more maintenance and long-term investment compared to fibreglass or vinyl pools. From resurfacing to higher chemical costs, expenses can add up over time.

Why It Happens

Frequent Resurfacing: Concrete pools need resurfacing every 10–15 years, which can be costly.
Higher Chemical & Energy Costs: More chemicals are needed to balance water chemistry, and concrete’s rough texture requires stronger filtration to prevent algae.
Pump, Filter & Heater Maintenance: Pool equipment needs regular servicing to keep everything running efficiently.

Ways to Reduce Costs

✅ Invest in Energy-Efficient Pumps & Filtration Systems

A variable-speed pump can reduce electricity use by up to 70%.
Upgrading to a high-efficiency filter lowers maintenance needs and energy consumption.

✅ Keep Water Chemistry Balanced

Prevent costly plaster damage and scaling by maintaining proper pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
Regular water care reduces the need for extra chemicals and repairs.

✅ Use a Pool Cover to Reduce Evaporation & Chemical Use

A solar cover helps retain heat and reduce chemical evaporation.
Pool covers also minimize algae growth, reducing chlorine demand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I resurface my concrete pool?

On average, every 10–15 years, it depends on water chemistry, usage, and maintenance.

Can I drain my concrete pool completely?

It’s risky. Draining can cause structural damage if not done correctly. Always consult a professional.

Why does my concrete pool feel rough even after brushing?

This could be due to plaster erosion, calcium buildup, or poor resurfacing. You may need sanding or resurfacing.

What’s the best way to prevent algae in a concrete pool?

Use a strong circulation system, brush the walls frequently, and keep chlorine levels stable.

Conclusion

Concrete pools are a durable and customizable choice, but they come with their own set of challenges. Cracking, rough surfaces, algae growth, scaling, and high maintenance can all impact your pool’s lifespan and enjoyment. The good news? Most issues are preventable or fixable with proper care.

By monitoring water chemistry, regularly cleaning, and making timely repairs, you can extend the life of your concrete pool and keep it looking great for decades. Investing in energy-efficient equipment and preventive maintenance will also help reduce long-term costs.

If you’re dealing with persistent problems, don’t hesitate to consult a professional—addressing small issues early can save you from bigger, costlier repairs down the road. With the right upkeep, your concrete pool will remain a beautiful, refreshing retreat for years to come!