Pool plaster deterioration happens gradually, even in pools receiving regular maintenance. Recognizing early warning indicators helps reveal additional underlying concerns your pool may have. Detecting problems sooner makes repairs more manageable and may prevent expensive future damage.
Detecting problems sooner makes repairs more manageable and may prevent expensive future damage. A small patch job can cost as little as $100–$300, while full replastering runs $6,000–$15,000. Early detection saves thousands.
Delamination
Plaster separates from the pool shell due to poor application or air pockets. Often requires full replastering of affected areas. Severity: High — repair cost: $1,500–$8,000+ depending on area size.
Hairline Cracks
Minor surface fractures caused by normal soil settling. Usually harmless but can harbor algae if left unpatched. Severity: Low — repair cost: $100–$300 per patch.
Discoloration
Staining from chemical imbalances, metals, or algae buildup. Often treatable with acid washing before replastering is needed. Severity: Medium — treatment cost: $300–$700 (acid wash).
Large Cracks
Deep structural fractures extending past the plaster layer. Indicates ground shifting, storm damage, or aged deterioration. Severity: Critical — repair cost: $500–$3,000+ or full replaster.
Pool Plaster Delamination
This damage type typically results from inadequate plastering work or air pockets forming during application rather than owner negligence. Over time, small cracks permit water into air spaces beneath the plaster layer because the material didn’t properly adhere to the pool’s foundation.
Air trapped under the plaster pushes outward, creating raised areas that feel soft or spongy when pressed.
Water seeping behind the plaster causes uneven coloring — often appearing as darker or lighter spots compared to surrounding areas.
Miniature volcano-like bumps form where calcium deposits push through weakened plaster. These feel rough underfoot.
Chunks or flakes separating from the wall are a clear sign that the bond between plaster and shell has failed.
Pockmarks left behind after nodules break away. These craters expose the underlayer and accelerate further deterioration.
Re-plastering represents the only effective remedy. Significant deterioration may take considerable time before creating rough surfaces or major color changes.
Hairline Cracks
These minor fractures rank among the most frequently observed damage forms. While typically harmless individually, monitoring their progression proves important to ensure they’re not expanding. Such cracks usually signal soil settling around the pool, which is normal. However, they create ideal environments for algae development. Patching these cracks helps maintain cleaner water conditions.
Discoloration Issues
Color changes sometimes begin subtly before becoming noticeable. Various factors cause discoloration — from chemical imbalances to algae growth. Observing plaster color shifts carefully matters significantly.
Chemical imbalances frequently cause discoloration. Excessive or insufficient chemical quantities result in water staining plaster surfaces. Regular pool chemistry testing ensures proper balance while improving water safety.
Tiny spots typically indicate algae or mineral scale accumulation. Using pool cleaners can address these issues. Certain algae types require shock treatments beyond standard cleaning products. Copper or iron-colored stains suggest metal buildup from body products (sunscreen, cosmetics, hair treatments), yard chemicals, or trace metals in municipal water supplies. Shock treatments help prevent worsening, though removing established stains proves challenging.
Larger Cracks
Deep cracks extending beyond surface plaster layers signal serious structural problems. These indicate severe damage resulting from installation defects, extreme ground shifting, storm debris impact, or aged plaster deterioration.
Examine whether cracks penetrate deeper than the plaster layer. Monitor water levels for leakage signs. While absence of leaks suggests less urgency, expanding cracks eventually cause leaks and severe algae issues. Temporary repair kits provide short-term solutions, though full re-plastering typically becomes necessary as surrounding material weakens, generating additional fractures.
Concerned About Your Pool Plaster?
Don't wait for small damage to become a costly replastering job. Koko Head Pool Service provides professional pool inspections and maintenance throughout East Honolulu — catching problems early so you save money.
Schedule an InspectionContact Koko Head Pool Service for professional maintenance assistance to preserve water clarity and cleanliness.