A concrete pool is a luxurious addition to any home, offering durability and aesthetic appeal. However, to keep it looking pristine and performing at its best, regular maintenance is essential.
Whether you’re new to pool care or looking for expert tips tailored to concrete pools, this guide, prepared by our luxury pool builders, will help you keep your pool in perfect condition. From protecting its surface to enjoying a crystal-clear swimming experience year-round, here’s how to care for your concrete pool like an expert.
Essential Concrete Pool Maintenance
1. Water Testing & Chemical Balance
Maintaining the correct water chemistry is crucial to preventing damage to concrete surfaces and ensuring a comfortable swimming environment. Regular testing and adjustments will keep your pool water clean and balanced.
pH Levels
Maintaining a pH of 7.4–7.6 creates an ideal swimming environment. A pH level that is too high leads to cloudy water and scale buildup, while too low can damage pool surfaces and irritate skin and eyes.
Total Alkalinity
Alkalinity, which buffers pH fluctuations, should stay between 100–150 ppm to prevent instability. Have pH buffers and alkalinity increasers on hand for quick adjustments and be mindful not to let alkalinity get too high or scaling on pool surfaces can occur.
Chlorine & Alternative Sanitisers
Maintain chlorine levels around 1 ppm, achievable through chlorine tablets or alternative methods like powdered pool chlorinators or salt water chlorinators.
An alternative to traditional chlorine, a saltwater chlorinator converts salt into chlorine, providing a softer, eco-friendly sanitisation method. This system also reduces eye and skin irritation while maintaining pool hygiene.
An ideal option that offers a gentler approach on both the pool and its users, Laguna’s Mineral Pool System uses Dead Sea minerals to naturally sanitise the water, reducing chemical use while enhancing skin hydration and health.
Calcium Hardness
Essential for concrete pools, calcium levels should be between 200–400 ppm to prevent surface degradation. If levels drop too low, the water may leach calcium from the concrete, leading to deterioration such as etching or pitting of pool surfaces.
Conversely, high calcium can cause scale buildup on walls and other equipment. Calcium chloride dissolved in water can be used to increase calcium, while a partial ‘drain and refill’ may be required if levels climb too high.
2. Vacuuming & Brushing
Concrete pools are more porous than fibreglass or vinyl pools, making them more prone to dirt, algae and bacteria buildup. Regular gentle brushing and vacuuming prevent algae growth and extend the life of your pool’s finish.
For effortless maintenance, every Laguna pool offers the option of an in-floor cleaning system, which uses strategically placed jets to lift debris and direct it to the filtration system. This reduces the need for manual vacuuming and abrasive scrubbing of the pool’s surface.
3. Filter & Pump Maintenance
Your pool’s filtration system is responsible for circulating water and removing impurities. To keep it functioning efficiently:
- Run the pump daily to maintain water clarity and minimise sediment on the pool floor.
- Clean or backwash filters regularly (sand, cartridge, or DE) to prevent clogging.
4. Water Level Management
Water naturally evaporates and combined with splash-out during use, can lower pool water levels over time. Maintain the waterline halfway up the skimmer opening for optimal filtration. During hot months, it’s important to check levels more frequently to prevent air from entering and potentially damaging the system.
5. Seasonal Adjustments for Concrete Pools
Concrete pool maintenance varies with the seasons, so it’s necessary to adjust your routine accordingly:
- Summer: Run the filtration system for 10+ hours daily; check pH every two days; clean walls and floors regularly.
- Autumn: Reduce filtration to 5 hours daily; use a pool cover to prevent debris accumulation.
- Winter: Maintain filtration for 5 hours daily; check chlorine and pH every two weeks.
- Spring: Conduct a thorough pool clean, check equipment, and ensure chemical balance before peak swimming season.
A Smarter Way to Maintain Your Pool
Concrete pool maintenance doesn’t have to be challenging, time-consuming or chemical heavy. At Laguna, our advanced pool technology, including self-regulating mineral systems, automated cleaning and efficient filtration, ensures your concrete pool remains pristine with minimal effort.
By taking some simple steps and using the latest innovations in pool care offered by Laguna with every luxury pool build, you’ll extend the lifespan of your pool, reduce long-term costs and be able to enjoy your pool in every season.
For expert guidance and the best in luxury concrete pools, contact the Laguna team today.
