Learn How to Repair Cracks in Concrete Pool Deck

Tampa Bay is Florida’s crown jewel. We have lots of sunny days, sandy beaches, a vibrant culture, and stunning backyards to come home to, complete with sparkling pools. But after years of use and abuse from the Gasparilla invasion and after-party events after cheering the Bolts on, even your sturdy concrete pool deck will eventually cry and crack. But it’s not all your fault. Given our sandy soil, hot summers, and the few-in-between winter chills, it’s not really uncommon to see poolside cracks.

Now if you are here to learn what causes cracks and how you can repair them, or are finding tips to prevent future damage, you are on the right page.

Our summers are staggeringly hot. Annually, we see average highs reaching a whopping 90°F (32°C). This heat, plus high humidity, equals damaged pool deck. Simply put, as the temperature rises, concrete expands. When it cools, it contracts. This constant movement causes internal stress on the concrete, leading to cracks in the long run. With high humidity, it makes it harder for concrete to release trapped heat, adding to the already present stress from daily temperature changes.

But that's not all. Although not common, Tampa sporadically has to contend with freeze-thaw cycles in winter. The last time Tampa experienced a temperature below zero (-1) was in December 2022. During these times, the freezing temperatures cause water that’s trapped within cracks to expand. When this happens, cracks widen further. 

Don’t forget Tampa's sandy soil. Yes, they are beautiful for our world-famous beaches. But can’t say the same thing for pool decks. When there is settling and shifting, expect there to be cracks.

Meanwhile, if you live in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater, salt spray is another concern for your pool deck. When saltwater seeps into the pool deck surface, it can cause numerous problems. For one, it causes spalling or flaking. Don’t think that your deck looking ugly is the end of it. More than that, spalling exposes more concrete to salt and elements, causing further damage. Moreover, when cracks appear and saltwater seeps in, it corrodes the steel reinforcement rods inside the concrete. This then compromises the structural integrity of the deck.

Now that you know what’s the culprit, let's discuss how to repair a cracked pool deck in your home. There are two main approaches to consider: DIY solutions and professional service.

For small pool deck cracks (less than ¼ inch wide), some Tampa homeowners choose the do-it-yourself route. Patching materials like epoxy fillers are readily available, and the process seems straightforward. However, there's a catch-22: improper application can worsen the crack and lead to future problems.

If you are unsure how to patch or fill cracks, you can find suggestions from an online forum dedicated to DIYers. They can recommend repair kits and answer general questions about repair products. They may even give you the exact steps on how to repair concrete cracks.

When DIY is no longer an option, calling in professionals is the smart thing to do. When dealing with larger cracks or uneven slabs, there is no shame in asking for expert help. Pro concrete contractors in Tampa can provide a long-term solution, saving you time and money on repairs:

• Polyurethane Injection: This process involves drilling tiny holes into the concrete and injecting high-density foam into them. When the foam expands, it lifts the sunken slabs. Once it hardens, it stabilizes the slab.
  
  
• Resurfacing: For this method, you first need to clean and level the surface. When it is ready, a thin layer of durable mix is applied and bonded to the old concrete. To add texture or color to the surface, you can use different finishes like stamps and stains.
  
  
• Crack Stitching: This technique uses U-shaped steel bars to reinforce and close large cracks.

As true Tampanians know, we have a strong sense of community and a love for all things outdoors. Our backyards are extensions of our living spaces, and our pool decks are the heart of summer fun. When it comes to repairs, consider these local factors:

• Quick Fix vs. Long-Term Solution: Some Tampa Bay residents might prioritize a speedy fix to get back to swimming pool gatherings. Others might value a long-term solution that prevents future headaches (and potential costs).
  
  
• Cost vs. Value: Patching cracks DIY-style is cheap. But, if you need to repair the the same pool deck area again and again, that isn’t cheap at all! Meanwhile, though professional solutions are more expensive upfront, the long-term effect is more cost-efficient.

Now that you're armed with knowledge about repairs let's talk about keeping those cracks at bay in the first place. Here are some preventative measures to consider:

• Drainage Solutions: Adequate drainage is important. We don’t want water to accumulate under the decking because it causes the concrete pool deck to crack. To divert groundwater from pooling, you can use French drains.
  
  
• Expansion Joint Maintenance: All concrete expands and contracts slightly when temperature changes. Expansion joints, thin spaces between slabs, prevent cracks from developing due to expansion and contraction. With it, concrete can breathe without cracking. Just remember to check these joints from time to time and replace the sealant when needed.

• Drainage Solutions are Your Ally: Cracks appear when there is no proper drainage. But there area steps you can take to mitigate this problem. One is to create a slight slope that directs water away from the foundation and towards a drainage system. Second, use French drains. Perforated pipes are placed within underground trenches to channel groundwater away from concrete pool decks. This method stops water from accumulating under the the structure that causes stress on concrete - hence no cracks!
  
  
• Expansion Joint TLC: Concrete naturally expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations. Expansion joints, those thin spaces between concrete slabs, are designed to accommodate this movement and prevent cracking. Here's a local tip: Regularly inspect these joints for signs of wear or deterioration. If they appear cracked, spalled (flaking concrete), or filled with debris, have them resealed by a professional using a high-quality seal specifically formulated for Florida's climate.
  
  
• Mind Your Landscape: The plants and trees adorning your Tampa Bay backyard are beautiful, but their root systems can wreak havoc on your pool deck if left unchecked. Overgrown tree roots can exert pressure on the structure, causing cracks. Maintain a safe distance between trees and your pool deck. Make sure to trim roots that encroach on the pool deck.
  
  
• Weight Distribution Matters: While pool decks are built to be sturdy, avoid placing excessively heavy objects on them for extended periods. Distribute weight evenly across furniture sets, and avoid using grills or fire pits directly on the concrete.