Preventing Cracks in Pool Coping: Tips & Tricks

Pool coping is considered the crowning touch on swimming areas. Similar to a crown, the coping sits around the top edge of the pool, where it protects the underlying materials. When you hang your arms over the edge of a pool to take a rest from swimming or stand on the side to jump in, you’re using the coping. When pool coping is professionally installed, it should last for a long time without sustaining damage. But it can crack when placed under stress or due to general aging. Knowing why pool coping cracks helps you provide proper care and know when to call your pool installation crew for repairs.

Start with Proper Installation

A concrete pool builder uses materials that include tile and concrete to make the pool coping. Similar to having a driveway poured, using poor installation techniques can lead to cracking and separation between the different sections of the coping. If cracks exist from the beginning, they’re more likely to grow with exposure to water and chemicals over time. Always work with reputable pool installers and let them know if you notice signs of an issue as soon as possible.

Maintain Good Pool Chemistry

For a new pool owner, water chemistry suddenly becomes a topic of great study. While it’s tempting to take a DIY approach to maintaining the water, it can backfire if the chemicals aren’t balanced. When pool coping is repeatedly exposed to high levels of chemicals from the water, it can dry out and develop issues such as cracks and pitting. Making sure the water chemicals are in the proper range goes a long way toward protecting the coping, and balanced water is healthier for everyone.

Inspect for Damage from Outdoor Elements

The grout, caulk, and concrete around the pool are all constantly exposed to UV rays from the sun along with precipitation. Over time, you might notice these components beginning to show signs of wear and tear. As you might see in your home’s bathroom, damaged grout and caulking can allow water to seep behind the outer layer of the pool coping and cause tiles and bricks to fall off. If you catch signs of cracked or chipped grout, make sure to repair or replace these areas right away to halt serious damage in its tracks.

Avoid Heavy Blows

Cracks in the pool coping are often caused by contact with heavy objects that place too much force on the delicate materials. Keep tree branches trimmed away from the decking to prevent them from landing on brick or tile that can easily crack under a heavy blow. If you enjoy exercising poolside, stick to light workouts such as yoga. Dropping heavy weights on the pool coping could cause major damage. 

Finally, enjoy the pool, and remember general maintenance goes a long way toward not having to replace the coping. Make sure to inspect the area during every pool start-up and closing to catch minor problems early when they’re easier to fix.

When they’re looking for the best professionals for every aspect of their in-ground pool installation, San Diego residents should reach out to the team at San Diego Pools. We’ve been designing and building pools for almost half a century, and we pride ourselves on our innovation and outstanding craftsmanship. If you need coping for an existing pool or you’re ready to get started building your brand-new pool, give us a call today.