Concrete Cancer: What It Is, How to Spot It, and Why Our Fiberglass Pools are the Better Option
The last thing any concrete pool owner wants to hear is the dreaded phrase, “concrete cancer.” This term refers to the chemical reaction that happens when the steel used to reinforce concrete starts to rust, corrode, and expand. While it can affect any structure with steel reinforcement, it’s especially common in concrete pools. In this post, we’ll dive into what concrete cancer is, how to spot it, and how you can prevent it.
What Is Concrete Cancer?
Concrete cancer happens when moisture constantly comes into contact with the steel walls and beams used to reinforce concrete. Concrete is porous, meaning it has little pores that can absorb moisture from the air and water. Even small cracks, like hairline ones, let moisture seep into the concrete and reach the steel reinforcement. Over time, exposure to moisture and air causes the steel to rust, corrode, and expand. This expansion forces the concrete to crack and shift. Since this reaction spreads quickly, it’s often called “concrete cancer.” Left unchecked, concrete cancer can severely compromise the integrity of your pool structure.
Why Do Concrete Pools Get Concrete Cancer?
Concrete isn’t naturally waterproof. The only thing that keeps the pool water in and not in the ground is a thin waterproof coating. However, this coating wears down over time due to age, poor maintenance, and natural wear and tear.
Concrete pools also cracks. Older concrete pools, pools that haven’t been properly cared for, and pools that were poorly installed are especially prone to cracks.
How to Prevent Concrete Cancer
The first step in prevention is knowing how to spot it. Look for rust on the outer walls of your pool. Eggshell-like cracks and sections of the pool caving in are also strong signs that concrete cancer has started to develop. While these signs sound alarming, don’t panic. With regular maintenance and timely retouching of your waterproof coating, you can prevent concrete cancer.
If your pool is already “infected”, you’ll need to hire a professional to repair it. While repairs are usually possible, they can be costly and time-consuming.
Concrete Pools Aren’t Necessarily the Easy Option
Some people might think that concrete pools are the easier choice, but this view overlooks the significant amount of maintenance they require. While all pools need maintenance, searching for shortcuts often leads to bigger issues down the road. Concrete pools are likely to be more challenging and expensive to maintain than many people anticipate.
At Pettit Pools, we use the same resin gelcoat that’s found on boats. If you visit any marina, you’ll see boats that have been made with this same durable material for over 50 years. Many pool owners find that fiberglass pools don’t have the rough surface that can cut up feet or act as a breeding ground for algae and bacteria, which are common issues with concrete pools. If you choose a concrete pool, you might find yourself scrubbing it weekly and dealing with the added hassle of high maintenance.
Conclusion: Consider Our Fiberglass Pools for a Low-Maintenance Option
Our fiberglass pools tend to offer less maintenance overall, with a smooth, long-lasting surface that holds up well over time. If you’re in the market for a pool, you might want to consider fiberglass as an alternative for a potentially hassle-free experience.
Citations:
“What Is Concrete Cancer & What Causes It?” Latham Pool, 22 Oct. 2024.