Concrete pools are tough, long-lasting, and can be shaped into almost any design your imagination can conjure. For curious homeowners deciding whether or not to spend tens of thousands of dollars on a concrete pool, it is worth looking past the glossy brochures and getting down to brass tacks: how they are built, why they are so long-lasting, and how much upkeep they need once they are in the ground.
This manual breaks down the lifespan, benefits, and upkeep of concrete pools in easily digestible terms. It is similar to trade advice you would get from a buddy who went from start to finish with the pool-building process, mistakes, maintenance problems, and the whole shebang.
Why Concrete Pools Still Hold Their Ground
Fibreglass and vinyl pools arrived and made waves in the past four decades, but concrete pools are the undisputed heavyweight champion. They are unbeatable in terms of durability and can be built to any size or depth. Want a guitar pool? That’s possible. Oftentimes, just families simply appreciate that a concrete pool can be built into tight backyard spaces where the pre-fabricated shell won’t.
The Design Process: More Than Just a Hole in the Ground
Building a concrete pool isn’t like dropping in a fibreglass mould. It’s a proper construction project. The process usually runs through a few clear steps:
- Planning and permits – Councils often have specific rules on setbacks, fencing, and even tree protection. Homeowners may face stricter heritage requirements compared to newer estates.
- Excavation – This is where the big machines come in. Depending on soil type, rock may need blasting or heavy drilling. Anyone living near sandstone (hello, North Shore) knows the pain.
- Steel and plumbing framework – Before concrete is sprayed, a cage of steel rebar gets tied together, with pipes threaded in for filtration. This is the skeleton of the pool.
- Concrete application – Shotcrete or gunite is sprayed under pressure, giving the pool its form. It is like sculpting, but with machinery.
- Finishes – Tiling, pebblecrete, or rendered surfaces go on last, giving that polished, swim-ready look.
Every stage requires trade expertise. It’s not something a handy DIYer can patch together on weekends – unless they own a cement truck, excavation gear, and a team of labourers.
Durability: Built Like a Tank
The biggest advantage of concrete pools is their lifespan. With proper care, they can last 40 to 50 years. Compare that with fibreglass, which often needs resurfacing or replacement in 20–25 years, and concrete starts looking like the tortoise in the backyard race: slower to build, but it outlasts the others.
Maintenance: The Honest Truth
Here’s where concrete demands respect. A concrete pool will last decades, but it won’t clean or seal itself. Owners need to stay on top of:
- Regular brushing – Algae clings to rougher concrete surfaces more than smooth fibreglass. Weekly brushing keeps it under control.
- Chemical balancing – pH, chlorine, and calcium hardness all need monitoring. Too much imbalance, and the surface can etch or stain.
- Resurfacing – Every 10–15 years, concrete pools often need resurfacing to repair wear and restore their looks.
- Cleaning gear – Robotic cleaners save time, but the old-fashioned pool net still gets a workout.
Maintenance is where many first-time owners underestimate the commitment. Think of it like owning a classic car. You get longevity and style, but upkeep is part of the deal.
Costs and Value: The Long-Term View
Concrete pools aren’t cheap. Installation usually costs more and takes longer than other pool types. But longevity often justifies the investment. A concrete pool can add serious value to a property, especially in suburbs where outdoor living is prized.
Turnbull Pools, a well-known name in the industry, points out that while upfront expenses are steeper, the long lifespan often offsets this. In other words, it’s a “buy once, cry once” kind of investment.
Tips for Homeowners Considering Concrete
If you’re weighing up whether to commit to a concrete pool, here are some practical tips:
- Budget for the long game – Installation plus future resurfacing.
- Think about space early – Pools eat up more yard than most people realise. Leave room for entertaining areas.
- Plan for access – Excavation equipment needs a path in. Narrow driveways or tight laneways can complicate things.
- Talk to neighbours – Noise, dust, and big machinery can ruffle feathers. A quick heads-up goes a long way.
- Don’t skimp on finishes – A good surface not only looks better but lasts longer.
A pre-formed pool shell doesn’t always suit a sloped or uneven yard, but concrete can be poured and shaped to match the lay of the land. That’s one reason many homeowners researching concrete pools in Sydney still lean toward them over other types.
Overall,
Concrete pool owners should maintain their pools by regularly skimming, brushing, and vacuuming. They can ensure proper water chemistry (testing pH, alkalinity, and chlorine), diligently care for the filtration system, and take steps to prevent issues through strategic landscaping. A concrete pool can last for 50 years or more, with the expectation of resurfacing the pool every 10 years and promptly addressing any cracks or leaks to prevent costly problems.
