Can a Cracked Gunite Pool Be Repaired?

You’re walking past the pool one afternoon and notice something that wasn’t there before: a thin line running across the pool wall or along the floor. Cracks in gunite pools can catch your eye quickly, and for many homeowners, that moment leads straight to worry. Is the pool leaking? Is the structure damaged?

It’s a common question we hear: Can a cracked gunite pool be repaired? The good news is that in many cases, the answer is yes. Gunite pools are incredibly durable, and many types of cracks can be repaired with the right approach. The key is understanding what kind of crack you’re dealing with.

Some cracks are small surface issues, while others can involve the pool shell or structure. In this guide, we’ll walk through why cracks happen, how the repair process works, and when a professional renovation may be the best path forward.

Key Takeaways

• Most gunite pool cracks can be repaired.

• Early evaluation helps prevent bigger issues.

• Renovation can extend the life of an older pool.

What Is a Gunite Pool?

Before talking about repairs, it helps to understand how a gunite pool is built.

Gunite is a form of concrete that’s applied using high-pressure spraying over a framework of steel rebar. This steel framework forms the pool structure, and the gunite mixture is sprayed onto it to create a strong, durable pool shell. Once the shell cures, a plaster coat or plaster finish is applied to create the smooth interior surface you see underwater.

This construction method is one reason gunite pools are so popular for custom backyard designs. The material is extremely durable, flexible in shape, and capable of supporting everything from simple rectangular pools to complex designs with spas, tanning ledges, and custom tile details.

At Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living, we build and renovate custom gunite pools using this same construction approach. When properly designed, installed, and maintained, a gunite pool structure can last for decades.

That said, like any concrete structure, small cracks can occasionally appear over time. Some are minor surface issues in the plaster finish, while others may involve the pool shell itself.

Understanding the difference is the first step toward choosing the right repair approach.

Why Gunite Pools Crack

Ground movement

One of the most common causes of gunite pool cracks starts beneath the surface. Pools are built on soil, and over time, the ground can shift. This soil movement may occur gradually as the surrounding soil settles, or more dramatically during seasonal changes.

Freeze/thaw cycles can play a role. When water in the ground freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pool shell. When it thaws, the soil contracts again. Over many seasons, that movement can lead to small cracks forming in the concrete structure.

Structural stress

Age can also be a factor. Even well-constructed pools experience wear over time. Older pools may develop stress points along the bond beam, near the main drain, or around areas where materials meet, such as tiles or coping.

In some cases, issues trace back to how the pool was constructed in the first place. If the shell wasn’t properly reinforced or if the soil base wasn’t prepared correctly, stress may eventually show up as cracks.

This doesn’t always mean major structural failure. Often, the extent of the issue determines whether the solution is a straightforward pool repair or a larger renovation project.

Surface vs. structural cracks

Not all cracks are the same.

Many pools develop hairline cracks or tiny cracks in the pool plaster or plaster finish. These surface cracks typically don’t affect the pool structure itself. In most cases, they’re cosmetic and can be addressed during resurfacing or routine maintenance.

Structural cracks are different. These extend through the gunite shell and can sometimes lead to water loss or changes in the water level. When that happens, professional inspection and proper repairs are important.

Seeing a crack doesn’t automatically mean the entire structure is compromised. For the most part, many cracks are manageable when identified early and addressed with the right repair approach.

Can a Cracked Gunite Pool Be Repaired?

The short answer is usually yes. Many gunite pool cracks can be repaired successfully, especially when the issue is identified early and addressed by an experienced contractor.

The right repair method depends on the type of crack, its location, and the extent of the damage to the pool shell.

Epoxy or polyurethane injection

For structural cracks, one of the most common repair techniques is epoxy injection. During this repair process, professionals inject epoxy or similar materials directly into the crack. The epoxy fills the gap and bonds with the surrounding concrete, helping seal the structure and restore strength.

This approach can also help stop water loss by sealing pathways where water may be escaping through the shell.

Staple repair method

Another option used for larger or structural cracks is the staple repair method. In this process, steel staples are installed across the crack after the area is carefully opened and prepared. The staples reinforce the concrete and help stabilize the structure before the area is filled and sealed with cement-based material.

This technique helps restore structural stability and prevent the crack from expanding.

Resurfacing the pool

If the cracks are mostly cosmetic, the solution may be pool resurfacing. During resurfacing, the old plaster finish is removed and a new interior surface, such as plaster, pebble, or quartz, is applied.

This process addresses hairline cracks, surface wear, and aging finishes, restoring the look and feel of the pool.

Resurfacing is often part of a larger renovation plan and can give an older pool a completely refreshed appearance.

Why professional evaluation matters

While small cracks may look like something that could be handled with a quick patch or temporary fix, those approaches rarely solve the underlying issue. Proper repairs require the right equipment, testing, and understanding of the pool structure.

A professional pool contractor can evaluate the crack, determine the cause, and suggest the best repair plan.

In many cases, addressing the issue early helps prevent larger repairs down the road and keeps the pool performing the way it should for years to come.

Signs Your Pool Needs Professional Repair

Some cracks are minor, but others signal that it’s time to call a professional. Knowing what to look for can help you catch issues early before they turn into larger repairs.

Water level keeps dropping

If you notice the water level falling faster than normal, it may indicate a pool leak. While some evaporation is expected during the summer, frequent refilling can be a sign that water is escaping through a crack in the shell.

When refilling becomes routine, it’s a good idea to have the pool inspected.

The crack is getting bigger

A crack that widens over time is another sign the issue may go deeper than the surface. Small cracks can remain stable for years, but if you notice the crack spreading, deepening, or changing shape, it’s worth having a contractor take a closer look. A quick fix or temporary repair rarely solves the underlying cause.

Tiles are separating

Loose or shifting pool tiles can sometimes signal movement in the structure behind them. This often appears along the waterline or near the bond beam where different materials meet.

When tiles start separating, it’s usually the first thing homeowners notice before realizing a structural issue may be developing.

The pool deck is shifting

Movement in the surrounding deck can also point to soil shifting underneath the pool. If sections of the deck begin to stand unevenly, pull away from the pool, or show signs of cracking, the pool structure may be experiencing stress as well.

When to call a pool professional

If you see any of these signs, the first thing to do is have the pool evaluated by a professional. A qualified contractor can inspect the structure, test for leaks, and determine the extent of the issue.

Early evaluation often means simpler repairs and helps ensure the problem is properly covered before it becomes a larger renovation project.

When Repair May Not Be Enough

In many cases, cracks in a gunite pool can be repaired successfully. But there are situations where repairs alone may not fully solve the problem.

Severe structural damage

If the pool shell has significant structural damage, simple crack repairs may only address the symptoms rather than the underlying issue. Large structural cracks can affect the stability of the entire pool structure, making a more comprehensive solution necessary.

In these cases, a contractor may recommend more extensive work to restore the integrity of the pool.

Poor original construction

Sometimes the issue traces back to how the pool was built in the first place. If the shell wasn’t properly reinforced or the foundation wasn’t prepared correctly, cracks can continue to appear even after repairs.

When this happens, a renovation or structural correction may be the best long-term solution.

Multiple large cracks

If there are multiple large cracks across the pool, repairing each one individually may not address the bigger structural picture. Widespread cracking can indicate movement in the surrounding soil or stress throughout the shell.

When renovation is the better option

In situations like these, a pool renovation or partial rebuild may be recommended. This can involve structural repairs, resurfacing, or rebuilding sections of the pool shell to ensure the structure is stable for the long term.

While renovation sounds like a big step, it can often extend the life of a gunite pool for many years and restore both its appearance and performance.

How Pool Renovation Can Restore an Older Gunite Pool

When a gunite pool begins showing signs of age, renovation can often bring it back to life. Instead of replacing the entire pool, targeted upgrades and structural improvements can restore both performance and appearance.

At Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living, renovation projects often focus on strengthening the structure while giving the pool a refreshed look that fits the rest of the backyard.

Structural repair

The first step is addressing any structural concerns. If cracks have developed in the pool shell, proper structural repair can stabilize the pool and prevent future movement.

This process may involve repairing cracks, reinforcing sections of the shell, and correcting underlying issues that may have caused the damage in the first place.

New interior finish

Once the structure is sound, the interior surface can be renewed with a new plaster, quartz, or pebble finish. A new finish improves durability, enhances color, and gives the pool a smooth, refreshed feel underwater.

Resurfacing also addresses cosmetic cracks and wear that naturally occur over time.

Updated tile and coping

Renovation is also a great opportunity to upgrade waterline tile and coping. Modern materials can dramatically change the appearance of a pool while improving durability around the edge where the pool meets the deck.

These details can transform the look of the pool without changing its original footprint.

Modernizing the backyard space

Many homeowners use a renovation as a chance to rethink the entire outdoor space. Adding features like spas, tanning ledges, updated lighting, or new decking can completely refresh how the backyard functions.

With thoughtful planning, an older gunite pool can become the centerpiece of a fully modern outdoor living area.

Work With Experts Who Understand Gunite Pools

At Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living, gunite pools have been at the heart of what we do for decades. Since 1966, we’ve been designing, building, and renovating custom pools across New England, helping homeowners create outdoor spaces that last.

We specialize in custom gunite pools, which means we understand the structure, materials, and craftsmanship required to build them properly—and to repair them when needed. Whether a pool needs structural repairs, resurfacing, or a full renovation, our team approaches every project with the same attention to detail.

Over the years, we’ve helped homeowners restore aging pools, upgrade finishes, and transform backyards with modern outdoor living features. Our goal is to make sure your pool continues to perform and look great for years to come.

If you’ve noticed cracks in your pool or simply want a professional opinion, we’re always happy to help. Reach out to our team to schedule a consultation, and we’ll walk you through the options for repairing or renovating your gunite pool.

Conclusion

Seeing a crack in your pool can be concerning, but in many cases, it’s something that can be repaired. The key is identifying the type of crack and addressing it properly. With the right repairs and sometimes a thoughtful renovation, a gunite pool can continue to perform beautifully for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cracked gunite pool be repaired?

Yes, in many cases a cracked gunite pool can be repaired. Small surface cracks can often be fixed during resurfacing, while structural cracks may require epoxy injection or structural reinforcement. The right solution depends on the location and severity of the crack.

Are hairline cracks in a gunite pool normal?

Hairline cracks in the plaster surface are fairly common over time. These cracks typically affect the plaster finish rather than the pool shell itself. While they may not impact the structure, they can often be addressed during routine pool resurfacing.

How can I tell if a pool crack is structural?

Structural cracks often extend through the pool shell and may lead to water loss or a dropping water level. You may also notice widening cracks, shifting tiles, or movement around the pool deck. A professional inspection is the best way to determine the extent of the issue.

When should a cracked pool be repaired?

It’s best to address pool cracks as soon as you notice them. Early evaluation allows a contractor to identify the cause and recommend proper repairs before the issue grows into a larger structural problem.