Pool Structure

Pool Structure

In-ground pools should be designed to withstand the soil pressure on the sides and bottoms. They may be built of cast-in-place concrete, concrete sprayed onto a steel, reinforcing frame (gunite), vinyl liner on a structural frame, or fiberglass shell. sand or earth bottoms are generally not acceptable. Hairline cracks in concrete or fiberglass and small tears in vinyl may be repaired in most cases. Lowering the water level below the crack or tear is usually necessary. Large cracks may be serious, indicating soil movement or inadequate drainage. Professional advice should be sought.

Concrete pools should be painted every 3-5 years and re-plastered (Marcite) at 10-15 year intervals. Fiberglass may be patched, recoated, or covered with epoxy paint.