What to Know about Swimming Pool Waterproofing? Old and New

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

Swimming pool waterproofing is applying water-impervious membranes on the swimming pool surface. A waterproof swimming pool can stop crack forming, reinforcement corrosion, paint peeling, tile loosening, and joint loosening in the pool. If you do not waterproof a swimming pool, groundwater seeps into the swimming pool during the rainy season, and pool water leaks to the ground in the dry seasons. This can cause many health and maintenance problems. 

You can use cementitious waterproofing, liquid membranes, elastomeric coating, installing sheet membranes, and crystalline waterproofing on the swimming pools. Before you start swimming pool waterproofing, you should consider the ASTM standards for the pools. You should waterproof a swimming pool twice during the construction, such as after the concrete shell is cured and before tiling during the pool construction, for the higher performance of the waterproofing layer of the pool.

When you waterproof swimming pools, you should waterproof the swimming pool facilities such as locker rooms, bathrooms, pool decks, lounge areas, diving platforms, slides, spas, and pool equipment room in order to prevent water damage from the pool water. 

You should always maintain the recommended pH level, chlorine level and temperature in the pool for higher durability of the waterproofing layer in the pool. You should waterproof all types of swimming pools which are made of permiable material. You should apply a waterproof coating or sealant to protect swim pools that are made of water-impermeable layers.

A waterproofed concrete pool can last about 10 - 15 years and a well-maintained modered swim pool can last more than 25 years. You can waterproof your old or new small swimming pool by yourself. But for the bigger project you should hire an expert service all over the USA. 

The negative impact of swimming pool waterproofing layer damages are pH level changes, chlorine level changes in the pool, harmful additives and bacteria can be included in the pool water, algae can be grown, and pool water can be decolouration. You can waterproof the swimming pool using the steps mentioned below. You should waterproof both cinder block and concrete block swimming pools.

What is Swimming Pool Waterproofing?

Swimming pool waterproofing is applying water-impervious membranes on the swimming pool surface. The main aim of swimming pool waterproofing is to protect the concrete layer from the chlorine water in the pool and prevent water seepage, leaking, and erosion. You can use waterproof cement (cementitious waterproofing), waterproof mortar, waterproof grout, waterproof paint, and waterproof plaster for swimming pool waterproofing.

You should water-protect swimming pools made of permeable materials like concrete, brick, and stone. You should not waterproof swimming pools that are made of waterproof materials like fibreglass, vinyl, and metals. 

Can Ground Water Leak into the Swimming Pool?

Groundwater can be leaked into the swimming pool and mixed with the pool water. Groundwater can seep through the cracks, joints, and seams and overflow through the pool edge. The negative impact of the groundwater leaking into the swimming pool is changing the pH level and chlorine level and decoloration the swimming pool water, including harmful contaminants and bacteria. These negative impacts decrease the health condition of the user and increase the cost of pool maintenance and repairs.

Groundwater is considered to be the water beneath the floor level. Groundwater levels can rise during the rain and snow season. A higher water table build a higher ground water pressure. Due to the higher groundwater pressure, it tends to seep more from the outside. Therefore you should waterproof outside of the swimming pool in the higher water table areas. But you should waterproof inside the swimming pools everywhere.

What are the Water Damages of the Swimming Pools?

The swimming pool water damage are negative impact on the pool structure due to inside and outside water. A swimming pool can be damaged due to water, dissolved chemicals in the pool water, bad weather conditions, changing the thermal temperature of the water and outside water table. 

Due to the water damage of the swimming pools we can observe these 8 problems in the swimming pools.

1. Cracks and leaks through the swimming pool structure
2. Corrosion of the pool concrete reinforcements
3. Increase algae growth in the pool
4. pH imbalance in the pool water
5. Include harmful contaminants in the pool water
6. Stains marks on the pool walls and decolorations of the swimming pool water
7. Erosion around the pool
8. Odor smell in the pool water

You can prevent these problems and damages by applying a suitable waterproofing membrane on the swimming pool.

What Waterproofing Methods and Standards Can Be Used for Swimming Pools?

The waterproofing method is the process of installing a waterproof membrane on the pool surface. The swimming pool waterproofing method varies with the pool material, environmental condition, water table level, durability of the pool, ground stability, and chemical condition of the swimming pool. The most used swimming pool waterproofing methods are cementitious waterproofing, applying liquid membranes, applying an elastomeric coating, installing sheet membranes, and crystalline waterproofing on the swimming pools. 

Before you conduct a waterproofing method on the swimming pool, you should consider the below recommended ASTM standards for swimming pool waterproofing.

• ASTM F1346-23 - Standard Performance Specification for Safety Covers and Labeling Requirements for All Covers for Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot Tubs.
• ASTM C988-22 - Standard Specification for Precast Concrete Wall Panels for Swimming Pools
• ASTM F2477-10(2016) - Standard Specification for Flow Measurement Test Methods for Swimming Pool and Spa Pumps.
• ASTM C33 - Aggregates used in pool construction
• ASTM C478 - Precast concrete septic tanks 

When Should You Waterproof Swiming Pool During Construction?

You should waterproof a swimming pool during construction 2 times, such as after the concrete shell is cured and before tiling during the pool construction. 

Waterproof a swimming pool after the concrete shell is cured

You should waterproof the swimming pool once the concrete has been poured, smoothed, and allowed to cure properly. You should apply a cementitious waterproofing membrane on the interior surface of the pool. 

Waterproofing a swimming pool before tiling

You should apply the second layer of waterproofing in the swimming pool after the initial waterproofing layer is applied and properly dried. This second layer can be a liquid membrane, elastomeric coating, or other material suited for pool environments and compatible with your chosen tiles.

What Swimming Pool Facilities You Should Waterproof?

You should waterproof swimming pool facilities such as locker rooms, bathrooms, pool decks, lounge areas, diving platforms, slides, spas, and pool equipment room in order to prevent water damage from the pool water. In order to protect these facilities from the swimming pool water, you should use a suitable waterproof coating, sealant, or paint. If the water impact is high, you should install a waterproof membrane and rianage system on the area. 

Pool water pH level and chlorine level can have a destructive impact on these facilities over time. When these areas are exposed to water, chemical treatment, and humidity can lead to corrosion, rot, mold, and general deterioration over time. Pool water easily damages the areas areas such as locker rooms, bathrooms, showers, saunas, and the pool deck, where there is almost constant exposure to water and humidity. 

What are the Recommendations for Waterproof Swimming Pools?

The most important recommendations for waterproof swimming pools are maintain pool temperature between 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (25 to 28 degrees Celsius), an ideal pH level between 7.2 and 7.6, and a chlorine level between 1.0 and 3.0 parts per million (ppm). When these parameters exceed the recommended level, it can damage the waterproofing layer in the pool.

Recommended Temperature for Waterproof Swimming Pools

The recommended temperature of the waterproof swimming pool is between 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (25 to 28 degrees Celsius). Swimming pool temperature should not increase or decrease too much over time because pool temperature fluctuation can damage the swimming pool waterproofing layer by wearing and tearing.

When the swimming pool temperature is increased, it can expand the pool structure and waterproofing layer. When the temperature fluctuates over time swimming pool's waterproof layer can be damaged.

If a pool is not heated and the temperature goes below the freezing point, it might cause substantial damage. Water expands when it freezes and this expansion can lead to cracks in the pool waterproofing layer.

Recommended pH level for Waterproof Swimming Pools

The ideal pH level for a swimming pool is between 7.2 and 7.6. When the pH level is too low it is considered as acidic. Acidic water can damage the waterproof materials by deterioration over time. Hence swimming pool pH level should be kept under control for structure, waterproofing layer, and user safety.

PH range should be controlled to prevent problems such as eye and skin irritation. If the pH level of a swimming pool is too low (below 7.2), it is considered as acidic, and if it is too high (above 7.6), it is considered as alkaline. To maintain the proper pH level, pool owners can use pH increasers or pH decreasers to adjust the water's acidity or alkalinity.

Recommended Chlorine Level for Waterproof Swimming Pools

Higher levels of chlorine in the pool water can damage the waterproofing layer, pool structure, and rebars in the pool structure because chlorine can cause corrosion in metal components or degrade some types of stone and concrete. In order to prevent this you should maintain the ideal chlorine level for a swimming pool between 1.0 and 3.0 parts per million (ppm). 

What Types of Swimming Pools Need Waterproofing?

You should waterproof all the pool types mentioned below. 

1. In-ground pools
2. Above ground pools
3. Fiberglass pools
4. Infinity pools
5. Lap pools
6. Plunge pools
7. Saltwater pools
8. Hot tubs/spas
9. Indoor pools
10. Outdoor pools
11. Kiddie pools

But natural pools and vinyl-lined pools do not need a waterproofing membrane.

How Long Can a Swimpool Waterproofing Last?

A well-waterproofed concrete pool might not need re-waterproofing for 10 to 15 years, or even longer. Some modern waterproofing systems also come with warranties that may range from 10 to 25 years. The lifespan of swimming pool waterproofing can depend on several factors, including the quality of the materials used, the quality of the workmanship, the type of pool, and how well the pool is maintained. 

Fibreglass pools tend to have longer-lasting waterproofing because the fibreglass itself is naturally impervious to water. They generally only need to be re-coated or polished rather than re-waterproofing.

What are the Best Swimming Pool Waterproofing Services in the USA?

These are the best swimming pool services in the USA. You can connect with these services by using the contact number mentioned below.

American Leak Detection 

• Available Location - All over the USA
• Contact: 866-701-5306
• American Leak Detection company specializes in pool leak detection and repair. Their waterproofing techniques help to extend the lifespan of swimming pools by preventing water loss.

Aquamatic Cover Systems 

• Available Location - 200 Mayock Rd, Gilroy, CA 95020, USA
• Contact: 408-846-9274
• They offer excellent pool waterproofing services along with cover systems that provide an extra layer of protection and safety for your pool. 

LATICRETE International, Inc. - Connecticut

• Available Location - Bethany, Connecticut
• Contact: 1-800-243-4788
• LATICRETE is a world-wide leader company specializing in the manufacture of globally proven waterproofing solutions for swimming pools. 

Pool Seal LLC 

• Available Location - Hoover State Office Building, 1305 E. Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50319
• Contact - 609-857-5435
• Pool Seal LLC specializes in expansion joint sealant and crack prevention services. They provide a range of waterproofing services to extend the life of your pool.

Blue Haven Pools & Spas 

• Available Location - Available on most of US states
• Contact - 205-834-2144
• Blue Haven Pools & Spas provides a range of pool services, including waterproofing, renovation, and maintenance.

What Can be Used for Swimming Pool Waterproofing?

You can use waterproof cement, waterproof paint, waterproof pool plaster and waterproof mortar for the swimming pool waterproofing.

Waterproof Cement for Swimming Pool Waterproofing

Waterproofing cement can be used for pool waterproofing. Waterproof cement acts as a filling in the pores and gaps in the pool concrete layer. The additives in the cement react with the water to form crystals. Crystals can grow and fill in these spaces, effectively blocking any water from passing through the pool walls and floor.

5 Advantages of Waterproof cement for swimming pools

1. Durable waterproofing solution for swimming pools
2. Cost-effective waterproofing solution for swimming pools
3. Waterproof cement is easy to apply on swimming pools
4. Waterproof cement can be used for old and new swimming pools
5. Waterproof cement is resistant to water in swimming pools

Waterproof Paint for Swimming Pool Waterproofing

Waterproof paint can be used for swimming pool waterproofing. Waterproof paint is a special type of coating designed to resist water and provide a protective barrier. Waterproof paint can be used for sealing any cracks and pores in the pool structure.

5 Advantages of waterproof paint for swimming pools:

1. Waterproof paint provides a water-resistant barrier on the pool structure
2. Protects the pool surface from damage
3. Can withstand exposure to pool chemicals
4. Enhances the aesthetic appeal of the pool
5. Extends the lifespan of the swimming pool.

Waterproof Pool Plaster for Swimming Pool Waterproofing

Waterproof pool plaster is typically made from a mixture of white cement, marble dust, and water. Pool plaster acts as a waterproofing agent by filling in the porous concrete surface, preventing water from seeping through. It provides a smooth, hard surface that is resistant to the chemicals used in pool water and can withstand constant exposure to water.

4 Advantages of Waterproof Pool Plaster

1. Swimming pool plaster provides a smooth and attractive finish on the swimming pool
2. Pool plaster prevents water seepage
3. Pool plaster is chemical resistant and withstands chlorine and acidic water in the pool
4. Pool plaster enhances the longevity of the pool.

Waterproof Motar for Swimming Pool Waterproofing

Waterproof mortar is a type of mortar that is specifically designed to resist water penetration in swimming pools. Waterproof motor is typically made from a mixture of cement, sand, and a specific type of additive that gives it its waterproof properties. It forms a crystalline structure that blocks the pores in the mortar, preventing water from seeping through pool concrete layer.

3 Advantages of Waterproof Mortar

1. Waterproof motor prevents water leaking to pool structure.
2. Waterproof motor increases the service life of the swimming pool
3. Waterproof mortar can be used for both interior and exterior pool applications.

Are Cinder Blocks Waterproof?

Cinder blocks are the standard size (8 in.x8 in.x16 in) rectangular building blocks used in building construction. Cinder blocks are neither waterproof or water resistant. They are more permeable to water than poured concrete. You should waterproof cinder block walls when you use them for water-related constructions.

When the cinder blocks open to the pool water, its internal bonding can be reduced due to the chlorine and acid levels of the pool water. As a result of this, cinder block wall strength can be reduced, and materials can deteriorate overtime. 

What if a Swimming Pool is not Waterproof?

If a swimming pool is not waterproof, we can see severe damage on the pool structure, such as crack forming, reinforcement corrosion, paint peeling, tile loosening, and joint loosening. 

As a result of these damages, groundwater can seep into the pool during the wet season and pool water can seep into the ground during the dry season through the cracks, joints, and loosening connections.

The negative impact of not waterproofing a pool

1. pH level of pool water can be changed 
2. The chlorine level of the pool water can be changed 
3. Harmful additives can dissolve in the pool water
4. Harmful bacteria can be included in the pool water
5. Algae can be grown in the swimming pool
6. Swimming pool water can decolouration.

How to Waterproof an Old Swimming Pool?

Old swimming pool waterproof layer can be damaged due to structural stability fluctuation, and temperature variation, material deterioration, seams and joints loosening, material decaying, blistering, wearing, tearing and peeling. In order to fix these problems how to waterproof an old swimming pool? You can use the below steps to waterproof the old pool surface.

8 Steps to Waterproof an Old Swimming Pool

1. Observe for swimming pool leaks
2. Drain the pool water
3. Clean the swimming pool
4. Wash the surface using a heavy-duty cleaner
5. Fill the cracks using epoxy filler
6. Sanding the pool surface
7. Wash the pool surface using acidic water
8. Apply a waterproofing layer

What are the 5 Steps to Waterproof a New Swimming Pool?

New swimming pool has a fresh concrete surface. It can react with the chlorine and acidic condition of the pool water. Therefore you should waterproof newly constructed swimming pool using the below 5 steps.

5 Steps to Waterproof New Swimming Pool

1. Clean the swimming pool surface using a pressure washer.
2. Install the vapour barrier on the pool surface
3. Apply the primer in the pool surface
4. Install the waterproofing membrane on the pool surface
5. Install the top coat on the swimming pool surface