Arizona sunshine is relentless, and while it’s perfect for year-round swimming, it can take a toll on your backyard pool. One morning, you may spot a thin, ominous line stretching across the plaster. A few days later, the water level drops faster than usual. That’s when panic sets in.
Pool cracks can feel like a nightmare for any homeowner – but they don’t have to be. Left alone, a small crack becomes a big problem. But with the right information and the right professionals, your swimming pool can be restored to its original condition, or even better.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cracked pools and pool repairs in the Phoenix area.
Spotting Damage: Identifying Pool Cracks Efficiently
Some cracks look scary, but are only surface-level. Others may not seem urgent, yet lead to structural failure over time. Understanding the difference is crucial.
Hairline cracks are the most common. These superficial fissures are usually caused by shrinkage during curing or long-term exposure to the sun and chemicals. While they might not leak initially, they’re often the first sign that something deeper is wrong.
Structural cracks, on the other hand, penetrate the concrete shell and can lead to serious water loss, equipment damage, or even soil erosion around the pool. These usually form due to shifting ground, poor initial construction, or years of wear and tear.
Keep an eye out for these signs:
- Pool water loss of more than a quarter-inch per day
- Cracks that widen over time or branch off in multiple directions
- Uneven pool decks or bulging tiles
When in doubt, schedule a leak detection inspection to assess the full extent of the issue.
Immediate Risks: Why Acting Fast Matters
It might be tempting to “wait and see” if the crack worsens, but delay can be costly. Water is persistent. Once it finds a weak spot, it seeps through concrete, rusts steel rebar, and weakens the pool’s foundation.
Here’s what can happen if cracks go unchecked:
- Water Loss: A small leak adds up to hundreds of gallons per week, inflating your utility bills.
- Equipment Strain: Your pool pump and filtration system work overtime to maintain water levels, reducing lifespan.
- Landscaping Damage: Water escaping underground can erode the soil, causing damage to nearby structures, pavers, and garden areas.
In Phoenix, where pools often run year-round, the timeline between a small issue and a major repair can be short. Acting fast can save both money and headaches.
DIY Triage Steps Before Professional Help
If you spot a new crack, there are a few steps you can take before scheduling repairs:
- Document the Damage: Take clear, date-stamped photos from multiple angles. This helps contractors assess progression.
- Monitor Water Levels: Mark the waterline with a piece of tape and track daily loss to confirm a leak.
- Use a Temporary Pool Patch: Epoxy or underwater sealants can serve as a short-term fix, especially for small surface cracks.
However, these are only temporary measures. If the crack goes below the plaster layer or affects the pool’s structure, it’s time to call in the pros.
Professional Pool Repair Methods Explained
Phoenix pool owners have access to advanced pool repair solutions that not only fix cracks but also improve the pool’s overall look and durability.
Resurfacing and Chip-Out Process
This is often the go-to method when cracks are widespread or the plaster is failing. The existing surface is chipped away, exposing the underlying concrete. After preparing the shell, a new surface – plaster, pebble, or quartz – is applied.
This process:
- Seals existing cracks
- Enhances surface durability
- Refreshes the pool’s appearance
Structural Crack Reinforcement
Deep cracks may require more than resurfacing. Techniques like epoxy injections or installing staple reinforcements can bind the pool shell and prevent further movement.
Tile and Step Repair
Cracks along tile lines or steps often need removal and replacement of affected areas. Unique Companies also offers custom tile and step enhancements to modernize the look, all while fixing damage.
Upgrades During Repair
If you’re already draining the pool, it’s smart to consider upgrades like:
- Pool light replacement
- Pump or heater repair
- Water feature additions
These improvements add value without extra construction later.
Hidden Enhancements: What to Consider During Pool Repair
Many clients choose to turn a repair into a refresh. Once the pool is drained and work begins, there’s an ideal window to make functional and aesthetic improvements.
Options include:
- Installing a Baja step for lounging
- Upgrading to waterline tile that resists UV and scale buildup
- Adding LED lighting or a spa spillover for ambiance
Unique Companies is known for integrating pool repair with full outdoor renovations, offering a true one-stop shop for Phoenix homeowners.
Choosing the Right Phoenix Pool Pro
Don’t trust your pool to just anyone. Pool repair is a precision job that demands experience, licensing, and the right materials.
Unique Companies is one of the few fully licensed pool builders in Arizona that also provides repair, restoration, and remodel services under one roof. With a 20+ year reputation for quality, the company is led by a former NFL player turned Civil Engineer, ensuring every detail is professionally managed.
Questions to Ask a Potential Pool Contractor
- Are you licensed for pool repair in Arizona?
- Do you provide written warranties?
- Can you assist with tile, lighting, or deck upgrades, too?
If they hesitate to answer, move on.
Timeline Overview: From Crack to Crystal Clear
Getting a pool back in shape doesn’t happen overnight, but the process is straightforward when handled by the right team.
Step-by-step flow:
- Inspection & Estimate: Includes leak detection and project scope.
- Drain & Prep: Pool is emptied, and damaged areas are exposed.
- Repair Work: Structural fixes, resurfacing, and accessory upgrades.
- Refill & Test: Water is balanced, equipment is tested, and the finish is polished.
Typical repair timelines range from 5 to 14 days, depending on factors such as availability, weather, and complexity.
Post‑Repair Care: Ensuring Longevity
Once your pool is repaired, it’s critical to maintain it properly to prevent future issues.
Regular Tasks & Duties
- Check for new surface cracks
- Keep pH between 7.2 and 7.6
- Run your pump daily, especially during summer
- Schedule quarterly service visits
Unique Companies also offers ongoing maintenance packages to keep your pool healthy and protected year-round.
Preventive Measures: Avoid Future Cracks
Prevention always beats repair. Smart pool ownership can add years to your pool’s life.
Top prevention tips:
- Install a variable-speed pump to reduce pressure surges
- Avoid draining the pool without professional guidance
- Keep landscaping roots and irrigation lines away from pool walls
- Use a pool cover during extreme heat waves
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell if a crack is structural or just cosmetic?
Structural cracks penetrate deep into the pool shell and usually lead to water loss or visible shifting. Cosmetic cracks are surface-level and don’t impact functionality, but may worsen over time.
Can I repair hairline cracks myself with sealant?
You can apply a temporary patch using waterproof epoxy, but this is only a band-aid solution. It’s best to have a professional inspect the crack to ensure no deeper issues exist.
What causes rapid resurfacing failures in Phoenix?
High heat, improper chemical balance, and poor initial prep work are common causes. Always hire experienced pros with a track record of successful resurfacing in desert climates.
Will pool repair include updating equipment or tile?
Pool repair can include updating equipment or tile. In fact, it’s the perfect time to add new tiles, upgrade lighting, or install a more efficient pump. Many homeowners choose to bundle repairs with upgrades.
How long before I can swim again after resurfacing?
Most pools are ready within 7–14 days, depending on the materials used and the curing time. Your pool pro will give you the exact timeline.
Contact Us Today For Pool Repair
A cracked pool may look like trouble, but it’s also a wake-up call – and an opportunity. Whether you need a simple patch or a full restoration, the key is acting quickly and choosing professionals who see beyond the crack to the full potential of your outdoor space.
Unique Companies combines engineering precision with luxury outdoor design, offering Phoenix homeowners trusted pool repair and transformation services under one roof.
Ready to restore your pool and reimagine your backyard? Contact us today for a custom consultation!
