5 Signs Your Pool Deck Needs Immediate Concrete Repair

When people think about pool maintenance, they often focus on cleaning and filtration rather than their pool decks. But pool decks are crucial areas. They’re used for walking and lounging, and they also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the property.

While pool decks can be made from many types of material, they’re primarily made from concrete. Concrete is a porous material, so when it’s constantly being exposed to moisture, it can deteriorate over time. Most pool decks require repair or resurfacing every 10 to 15 years, but the precise duration depends on the pool deck’s material, the overall quality of maintenance, and how frequently the pool is used.

If you’re not sure if or when your pool deck was last repaired, perform a visual inspection and check for the following signs:

1: Cracks

One of the most obvious signs is visible cracks. These cracks can form due to various factors, including temperature fluctuations, ground and soil settling, or even poor initial concrete placement.

If cracks aren’t immediately addressed, they’re only likely to worsen over time. For instance, water can seep into cracks during cold-weather months and then freeze, causing the water to expand as it thaws. This expansion then causes the cracks to widen and deepen.

Some cracks may be cosmetic, while others may indicate structural issues. As soon as you notice cracks forming on the pool deck, be sure to have them professionally inspected.

2: Settling or Sinking Sections

Sinking or settling sections of a concrete pool deck are usually caused by issues with the underlying soil, including poor compaction, soil erosion, or voids. Sinking sections of the pool deck are more than just unsightly; they can also cause drainage issues and compromise the deck’s structural integrity. Sinking or settling sections of the pool deck are best repaired via concrete lifting.

3: Spalling

Spalling occurs when the surface layer of a pool deck starts to chip, flake, or peel away. It can create a rough, uneven surface that’s unattractive and a safety hazard. It can also lead to more severe issues with your pool deck, including deeper cracks and structural problems.

In Michigan and throughout the Midwest, spalling is typically caused by moisture intrusion and the freeze-thaw cycle. Exposure to pool chemicals can also lead to or accelerate the process of spalling.

The good news is that spalling can be corrected, usually via sanding or refinishing.

4: Delamination

Delamination occurs when the pool deck surface separates or peels away from the underlying concrete. It’s often caused by a failure of the bond that’s designed to connect the two layers of the surface. As the bond fails, voids and air pockets form that weaken the structure.

Delamination is not aesthetically pleasing and can also damage the pool’s structure or components. In some cases, parts of the surface can flow into the pool water, contaminating it.

To repair delamination, a professional will:

• Identify the extent of the damage and remove all loose material.
• Thoroughly clean the surface.
• Apply a new bonding agent to any part of the exposed surface.
• Patch the areas with a concrete patching mix.
• Smooth out and allow the patch to cure in the areas of application.

In some cases, it may also be necessary to resurface the entire deck to improve aesthetics and durability.

5: Staining

Stained or discolored pool decks are often the result of sun damage and/or repeated exposure to pool chemicals and biological growth. Pool deck discoloration can be fixed with a thorough cleaning, sealing, and resurfacing. Minor stains can often be repaired with a thorough pressure washing, while major discoloration issues or staining typically require resurfacing.

Address Pool Deck Damage Sooner Rather Than Later

Whether you’ve noticed stains, cracks, or significant structural issues, it’s crucial that you contact a professional like Detroit Concrete Leveling as soon as possible.

Detroit Concrete Leveling specializes in restoring concrete surfaces, including pool decks. We offer concrete leveling, joint sealing, and other repair services to homeowners throughout the metro Detroit area, and can help you resolve cracks, delamination, and significant structural issues with your pool deck. Detroit Concrete Leveling currently does not offer services for repairing staining or spalling issues. Visit our website to view some of our past projects, or contact us today to request a free, no-obligation quote.