A crack in your pool is never something to ignore. Even a small hairline fracture can slowly grow into a serious leak, costing you water, money, and time. Crack repair is one of the most important services for any Gilbert homeowner who wants to protect their pool investment.
Arizona’s intense heat and shifting soil put unique stress on pool surfaces. Because of this, cracks appear more frequently in the East Valley than in cooler climates. The good news is that catching them early makes the repair process much simpler and more affordable.
At Valley Pool Service, our technicians inspect pools across Gilbert and the surrounding East Valley every week. We know what to look for, and we act fast to prevent small cracks from turning into major structural problems.
Why Pool Cracks Happen in Gilbert, Arizona
Gilbert experiences some of the hottest summers in the country. That extreme heat causes pool materials to expand and contract repeatedly throughout the year. Over time, this constant movement weakens the shell of your pool.
Additionally, Arizona’s soil — particularly in areas like Queen Creek and San Tan Valley — can shift and settle after heavy monsoon rains. When the ground moves beneath your pool, the structure absorbs that stress. As a result, cracks can develop along the walls, floor, or waterline tile.
Common Causes of Pool Cracks
Understanding the cause helps your technician recommend the right repair method. Here are the most frequent reasons Gilbert pools develop cracks:
- Soil movement and settling — Common after monsoon season or drought cycles
- Thermal expansion — Repeated heating and cooling of pool surfaces in Arizona summers
- Age and surface wear — Older plaster and gunite surfaces become brittle over time
- Poor initial construction — Inadequate curing or low-quality materials can lead to early cracking
- Tree root intrusion — Roots from nearby landscaping can push against the pool shell
- Improper water chemistry — Highly acidic water slowly erodes plaster and grout
However, not every crack signals a catastrophic problem. Some surface cracks are cosmetic, while others indicate deeper structural issues. A professional inspection is always the best way to know for sure.
Types of Pool Cracks: What You Might Be Dealing With
Not all cracks are created equal. Therefore, the repair approach depends heavily on the type and location of the crack. Knowing the difference can help you have a more informed conversation with your pool technician.
Surface or Cosmetic Cracks
These are shallow cracks that appear in the plaster or finish layer. They do not penetrate the structural shell of the pool. While they may look alarming, they are often the easiest and least expensive to repair.
Surface cracks are very common in older Gilbert pools. Furthermore, they can worsen quickly if left untreated, especially during the hot summer months when the surface dries and contracts.
Structural Cracks
Structural cracks go deeper — through the plaster and into the gunite or concrete shell beneath. These are more serious and require more involved repair work. Moreover, structural cracks almost always cause water loss.
If you notice your pool losing water faster than normal evaporation would explain, a structural crack is a likely culprit. In that case, do not delay — contact a pool professional right away.
Settling Cracks
Settling cracks occur when the ground beneath your pool shifts unevenly. These are common in newer developments across the East Valley, including parts of Chandler and Gilbert, where soil compaction can vary from lot to lot.
Settling cracks often appear as diagonal lines running across the pool floor or steps. They may indicate ongoing ground movement, which is why a thorough inspection matters before repair begins.
How Pool Crack Repair Works
The repair process varies depending on the crack type, depth, and location. However, most professional crack repairs follow a similar general process. Here is what you can typically expect.
Step 1 — Inspection and Assessment
First, a technician will carefully examine the crack. They will check its length, depth, width, and location. This step is critical because it determines the right repair method and materials.
At Valley Pool Service, we take the time to fully explain what we find. We will walk you through the condition of your pool and outline your options clearly before any work begins.
Step 2 — Draining and Preparation
Next, the pool may need to be partially or fully drained. The crack area is then cleaned and prepared for repair. Loose or damaged material is carefully removed to create a clean bonding surface.
In Gilbert’s heat, this step requires careful timing. Additionally, a drained pool should never be left empty for too long, as the shell can pop or shift without water pressure holding it in place.
Step 3 — Crack Repair and Patching
The repair material is then applied to fill and seal the crack. For surface cracks, a plaster or epoxy compound is typically used. For structural cracks, a hydraulic cement or polyurethane injection may be necessary.
The goal is to create a watertight seal that matches the surrounding surface as closely as possible. Furthermore, the repair must be durable enough to handle Arizona’s extreme temperature swings year after year.
Step 4 — Refilling and Balancing
Finally, the pool is refilled and the water chemistry is carefully balanced. Proper chemistry after a repair protects the new material and helps it cure correctly. Our team will check your water before we wrap up.
We service pools throughout Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, and the surrounding East Valley. No matter where you are, we make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Signs Your Gilbert Pool May Need Crack Repair
Many homeowners do not notice a crack until the damage has already progressed. Therefore, knowing the warning signs can help you act before the situation gets worse.
- Unexplained water loss — Losing more than a quarter inch of water per day (beyond normal evaporation) may indicate a leak
- Visible lines or fractures — Any crack you can see with the naked eye deserves attention
- Wet spots around the pool — Soggy ground or grass near the pool deck can signal a leak below the surface
- Rising chemical consumption — If you are using more chemicals than usual, water loss may be diluting your pool
- Staining or discoloration — Cracks can allow minerals and algae to penetrate the surface, causing stubborn stains
- Rough or uneven texture — Spalling plaster around a crack is a sign the surface is deteriorating
If you spot any of these warning signs, reach out to a pool professional promptly. Early action almost always means a simpler and less costly repair.
Our team is ready to help. Contact Valley Pool today to schedule a thorough inspection of your pool.
Preventing Future Pool Cracks
Once your pool is repaired, the next goal is keeping it crack-free as long as possible. Fortunately, there are several steps Gilbert pool owners can take to protect their investment.
Maintain Proper Water Chemistry
Balanced water chemistry is one of the best defenses against surface damage. Water that is too acidic will slowly eat away at your plaster. On the other hand, water that is too basic can lead to calcium buildup and scaling.
Testing your water regularly — at least weekly during the summer — helps you catch imbalances before they cause damage. Moreover, our team can set up a regular maintenance schedule to handle this for you.
Keep Your Pool Full
An empty or low pool is more vulnerable to cracking. The water inside provides pressure that helps stabilize the shell. Therefore, always keep your pool at the proper fill level, especially during the dry Arizona summer.
Schedule Regular Professional Inspections
Annual or semi-annual inspections allow a trained technician to catch small issues before they grow. We can spot early-stage cracking, surface wear, and equipment problems that a homeowner might overlook.
Regular service also extends the life of your pool equipment and surface. It is one of the smartest investments a Gilbert pool owner can make.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Crack Repair
How do I know if my pool crack is serious?
Any crack that goes deeper than the plaster layer or causes water loss is considered serious. If you notice wet ground around your pool or unexplained water drops, call a professional right away. A quick inspection will give you a clear answer.
Can I repair a pool crack myself?
DIY patch kits exist, but they are typically a temporary fix. They rarely address the underlying cause of the crack. For a lasting repair that protects your pool long-term, professional service is always the better choice.
How long does pool crack repair take?
The timeline depends on the severity of the crack. Minor surface repairs can often be completed in a single visit. Structural repairs may require draining, curing time, and a follow-up visit. Your technician will give you a clear timeline upfront.
Will my pool need to be drained for crack repair?
Not always. Some surface cracks can be repaired with underwater epoxy or patching compounds. However, deeper structural repairs typically do require draining at least part of the pool. Your technician will assess what is needed before starting.
How often should I inspect my pool for cracks?
We recommend a visual inspection every few months and a professional inspection at least once a year. In Gilbert’s climate, the monsoon season and summer heat are the most stressful periods for pool surfaces. Inspecting before and after those seasons is a smart habit.
Trust Valley Pool Service for Pool Crack Repair in Gilbert
At Valley Pool Service, we know Arizona pools. Our technicians have hands-on experience with the unique conditions that Gilbert and East Valley homeowners face — from intense summer heat to shifting monsoon soils.
We treat every pool like it belongs to our own family. When you call us, we will listen carefully, inspect thoroughly, and explain every option available to you. There are no surprises and no pressure — just honest, professional service you can count on.
Whether you need a simple surface patch or a more involved structural repair, our team is ready to help. We also serve homeowners in Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, and surrounding East Valley communities.
Do not let a small crack become a costly problem. Reach out to the Valley Pool team today and let us get your pool back to its best. Request a free quote and take the first step toward a safe, beautiful pool all season long.
