Top 5 Powerful Pros and Cons of Concrete Pools in 2024
If you’re exploring pool options, a concrete pool can be an excellent choice for your backyard oasis. Concrete pools offer unparalleled customization, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Here’s a quick snapshot:
- Customizable: Any size, shape, or feature
- Durable: Long lifespan, resistant to damage
- Aesthetic Appeal: Classic look, versatile finish options
As a significant home investment, a concrete pool can improve your outdoor living space and add value to your property. For homeowners in Eastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire, where hot summers and mild winters prevail, having a custom gunite swimming pool or spa from Creative Edge Pools can turn your backyard into a paradise.
My name is David Brabant, owner of Creative Edge Pools. With over thirty years in the swimming pool and site development business, I bring a wealth of hands-on experience to ensure your concrete pool project is a success. Together, we can create a pool that reflects your vision and improves your home.
What is a Concrete Pool?
A concrete pool is a type of swimming pool made from a mix of water, cement, sand, and coarse aggregate like stone or gravel. This mixture forms a solid, durable structure that can be customized to nearly any shape or size.
Cement vs. Concrete
Cement and concrete are not the same. Cement is a component of concrete. Concrete is the complete mixture that includes cement, water, sand, and aggregate.
Gunite vs. Shotcrete
Concrete pools are built using two main methods: gunite and shotcrete. Both methods involve spraying concrete to form the pool shell, but they differ in how the concrete is mixed and applied.
- Gunite: This is a dry mix where water is added at the nozzle during spraying.
- Shotcrete: This is a wet mix that is pre-mixed with water before spraying.
Both methods yield similar results if done correctly, but gunite is often preferred for its flexibility during application.
Components
The key components of a concrete pool include:
- Concrete Mix: The basic structure formed by mixing water, cement, sand, and aggregate.
- Steel Rebar: A web of steel reinforcement is added to the concrete mix to improve its strength. Concrete has high compressive strength but low tensile strength, meaning it can withstand a lot of pressure but is prone to cracking when bent or pulled. The steel rebar compensates for this weakness, creating a solid and flexible structure.
Steel Rebar
The steel rebar is crucial for the pool’s structural integrity. It forms a web inside the concrete, allowing the pool to withstand the forces of water, earth, and gravity without cracking.
Curing Process
Once the concrete is sprayed, it undergoes a curing process. This process takes about 28 days and is essential for the concrete to reach its full strength and durability. The concrete doesn’t just dry; it hardens and strengthens over time.
Understanding these basics will help you appreciate the complexity and durability of a concrete pool. Next, let’s dive into the pros and cons of owning one.
Pros of Concrete Pools
Concrete pools offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for many homeowners. Let’s explore the key benefits:
Customizable
One of the biggest perks of a concrete pool is its high level of customization. You can design your pool in virtually any shape or size. Want a pool shaped like a car? It’s possible, though expensive. Concrete pools give you the flexibility to add unique features like waterfalls, tanning ledges, and custom lighting. This level of customization allows you to create a pool that fits your needs and aesthetic preferences perfectly.
Durable
Concrete pools are extremely durable. Unlike vinyl liners, which can be punctured by sharp objects, concrete can withstand rough use. This makes it an excellent choice if you have pets that enjoy swimming or if your pool will see a lot of activity. The steel framework combined with the concrete shell ensures that the pool can handle the forces of water, earth, and gravity without cracking.
While the concrete structure is durable, keep in mind that the plaster finish inside the pool will need refinishing over time. However, this is a small trade-off for the overall longevity and durability of the pool.
Aesthetic Appeal
Concrete pools have a classic look that many people find appealing. They offer a smooth, plaster-coated shell that holds water well and provides a stable structure. You can also opt for high-end finishes like tile or aggregate, which add a luxurious touch to your pool.
Unlike vinyl liners, which can wrinkle or tear, concrete pools maintain their appearance over time. This makes them an excellent choice if you’re looking for a pool that will stay beautiful for years to come.
In summary, concrete pools offer unparalleled customization, durability, and aesthetic appeal. These advantages make them a solid investment for anyone looking to add a long-lasting, beautiful pool to their backyard.
Next, let’s take a look at some of the cons of owning a concrete pool.
Cons of Concrete Pools
High Maintenance
Concrete pools require a lot of hands-on maintenance. The porous nature of concrete makes it a perfect breeding ground for algae. Once algae embed into the surface, it’s tough to remove. To combat this, you’ll need to brush the entire pool with a steel brush at least once a week.
Additionally, concrete pools require more chemicals to manage water chemistry. The surface’s alkalinity constantly increases the pool’s pH, so you’ll need to test the water and add acid regularly to keep it balanced. This means more time and money spent on maintenance compared to fiberglass or vinyl liner pools.
Long Installation Process
The installation process for a concrete pool is long and drawn-out. Unlike fiberglass and vinyl liner pools, which can be completed in several weeks, concrete pools typically take 3-6 months to install.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the process:
- Excavation: Removing the earth can take several hours to two days.
- Steel Placement: Tying together a cage of steel bars (rebar) takes 1-2 days.
- Shell Placement: This involves spraying gunite or shotcrete to form the pool’s shape.
- Curing: The concrete needs about 28 days to cure properly.
This extended timeline can be a significant drawback if you’re looking to enjoy your pool sooner rather than later.
Rough Surface
The interior of a concrete pool is durable but rough. This texture can scrape your skin, especially for kids. Even with regular refinishing, there’s not much you can do to smooth out the texture completely.
The rough surface also contributes to the pool’s high maintenance needs, as it makes it easier for algae to cling to the walls.
Frequent Refinishing
Concrete pools require frequent refinishing. The plaster coating inside the pool needs to be redone every 10-15 years. This is because concrete is incompatible with salt, and dissolved salt in the pool water can shorten the life expectancy of the plaster.
Moreover, you’ll need to hire professionals for this job, adding to the long-term costs. In addition to refinishing, professional acid washing is recommended every 3-5 years to keep the pool looking its best.
In summary, while concrete pools offer many benefits, they come with their fair share of drawbacks, including high maintenance, a lengthy installation process, a rough surface, and frequent refinishing needs.
Next, let’s explore the construction process of a concrete pool.
Concrete Pool Construction Process
Constructing a concrete pool is a detailed and multi-step process. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Excavation
The first step involves removing earth to shape the pool. This step is crucial for site preparation. Heavy machinery is used to dig out the area where the pool will be installed. The depth and shape are carefully measured to match your design.
Steel Placement
Next, steel rebar is placed to form the pool’s skeleton. This steel framework provides structural integrity. The rebar is carefully arranged and tied together, creating a strong cage that will support the concrete shell.
Plumbing
Plumbing is essential for water circulation and filtration. Pipes are installed to manage water flow, including inlets, drains, and skimmers. Pressure testing is done to ensure there are no leaks. This step is critical for the pool’s functionality.
Shell Placement
The concrete shell is then placed using either the gunite or shotcrete method. Concrete is sprayed onto the steel framework and shaped using trowels. This step brings the pool to life, forming the walls, floor, and any built-in features like steps or benches.
Curing
Curing is vital for the concrete to reach its full strength. This process takes 28 days and involves keeping the concrete hydrated. Proper curing ensures the pool will be durable and long-lasting.
Waterproofing
After curing, the pool shell may be waterproofed. Any rough areas are smoothed, and a waterproofing material is applied to the surface. This step helps prevent water from seeping through the concrete.
Tile and Coping
Tile is installed along the waterline to prevent stains and add aesthetic appeal. Coping, which is the border around the pool, is also added at this stage. These elements can be customized with various materials like stone or concrete.
Patio Installation
The area around the pool is prepared for the patio. A base of compacted stone is laid down, and the patio material—whether stone, concrete, or another option—is installed. This step can take 1-2 weeks.
Plaster
The interior finish of the pool is applied next. Typically, plaster is used, which consists of cement, sand, marble dust, and pigment. This layer is pumped through a hose, sprayed onto the shell, and troweled smooth. This usually takes 1 day.
Start-Up
Finally, the pool is filled with water, and the start-up process begins. Water chemistry must be balanced, and the pool should be brushed twice daily for at least the first 10 days to remove plaster dust. Heaters should not be used until all plaster dust is gone, and chlorine should not be added for the first 48 hours.
This comprehensive process ensures that your concrete pool is not only beautiful but also durable and functional. Now, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions about concrete pools.
Frequently Asked Questions about Concrete Pools
Are concrete pools worth it?
Concrete pools are a significant investment, but they offer unique benefits that can make them worth it for many homeowners.
Maintenance: Concrete pools require more maintenance compared to other types. You’ll need to regularly brush the pool to prevent algae growth and balance the water chemistry to avoid roughness and pitting.
Lifespan: With proper care, a concrete pool can last 50 to 75 years. Regular maintenance and occasional resurfacing are key to achieving this longevity.
Cost: While concrete pools are more expensive upfront, costing more than fiberglass or vinyl pools, their durability and customizability can justify the higher price tag.
How long do concrete pools last?
A well-built and well-maintained concrete pool can last anywhere from 50 to 75 years. This long lifespan is one of the main advantages of choosing a concrete pool. However, to reach this lifespan, you will need to:
- Resurface the pool every few years to maintain its integrity and appearance.
- Winterize the pool properly to prevent cracks from forming due to freezing water.
- Regularly maintain the pool, including brushing, balancing water chemistry, and checking for any repairs.
Do concrete pools crack in the winter?
Concrete pools are prone to cracking, especially in colder climates. However, proper winterization can minimize this risk.
Winterization: To protect your pool during winter, follow these steps:
– Use proper chemicals to prevent water from freezing and expanding in cracks.
– Do not completely drain the pool, as the water helps to balance the pressure against the pool walls.
– Cover the pool to keep out debris and reduce the risk of damage from freezing temperatures.
By following these steps, you can keep your concrete pool in good condition through the winter months and extend its lifespan.
Next, let’s wrap up with a summary of why a concrete pool might be the perfect addition to your home.
Conclusion
Concrete pools offer a blend of durability, customization, and aesthetic appeal that is hard to beat. They are built to last and can be custom to fit any backyard vision. However, they do require a bit more maintenance and a longer installation process compared to other types of pools.
At Creative Edge Pools, we specialize in designing and installing custom gunite swimming pools that transform your backyard into a personal paradise. Our comprehensive services cover everything from initial design and planning to the final touches like patios and outdoor kitchens.
With over a hundred years of combined experience, we ensure that every project is completed to the highest standards. Whether you’re looking to install a new pool or renovate an existing one, our team is here to bring your vision to life.
Don’t wait to transform your backyard into a stunning retreat. Visit our website or request an estimate to get started on your dream pool project.
