Concrete pools are some of the most durable and long-lasting pool options on the market, and if you have installed one of these or are considering a concrete pool for your house, you can rest assured all of your needs as a family will be met. However, concrete pools require regular maintenance.
As with any type of pool, you will need to adhere to a light maintenance schedule in order to keep your pool water fresh, your pool surfaces clean, and the area healthy for swimming and family fun. Here is a simple but effective guide on how to clean and maintain your concrete pool.
The tools you’ll need
In order to successfully keep your concrete pool clean and maximize its lifespan, you will need a short selection of regular pool maintenance tools. You will need a pool skimmer, plastic-bristle pool brush, a pool vacuum, some algaecide, pool chlorine or an automated chlorinator, and a pool test kit. A pool cover is optional, however it is a sound investment. Although the list might seem extensive, the maintenance process is actually straightforward and brief.
Cleaning the surface and the sides
Firstly, you want to use the pool skimmer to remove any debris that might have fallen to the surface overnight. You can do this when you notice debris starting to accumulate, or at least every two days if you prefer sticking to a schedule.
Next, you want to use the plastic-bristle brush to scrub the sides of the pool clean. Be sure to use a circular motion for maximum effect and slowly work your way around the entire pool, making sure you reach every nook and crevice.
Removing debris from the base
After you have scrubbed the sides, wait 10 to 15 minutes for any debris, dirt, or small particles to settle on the bottom, and then proceed to vacuum the pool thoroughly. The benefit of a modern concrete pool is that, regardless of the option you choose (as natural or infinity, for instance), you don’t have to worry about damaging the surface with these cleaning methods.
Modern pools are built to last, with durable coatings protecting the surface area from outside elements, foot traffic, and maintenance. Move the vacuum slowly across the bottom of the pool in straight lines, paying special attention not to stir up any debris in the process. Be sure to clean the pool every week.
Treat the water properly
The next step in the maintenance process is regular water treatment. First, add the correct amount of algaecide to the water as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Alternatively, you can add 3oz. of algaecide per 10000 gallons of water as a general rule.
Next, you want to sanitize the water and make it safe for swimming by adding chlorine once every two weeks. You can find pool chlorine in the form of tablets or liquid, however, the manufacturer’s instructions should specify the best chlorination method.
You can also opt for an automatic chlorinator and forget about the chore altogether. Be sure to wait at least two hours after chlorination before jumping in. Use the pool test kit once a month to assess the pH and alkaline levels of the water. The chlorine level should remain around 3 parts per million and the pH level should be between 7.2 and 7.6.
Maintain the filtration system
Finally, you want to make sure the filtration system is working properly year-round in order to keep the pool water safe and healthy for swimming. Therefore, clean out any filtration traps around the pool at least once a week and let the filtration system run for at least 8 hours every day for proper water circulation and filtration.
Concrete pools are extremely popular with homeowners around the world due to their long lifespan, quality and durability, and easy maintenance. No matter if you have one or are considering introducing a concrete pool into your backyard, be sure to use this maintenance guide to make your pool area clean, safe, and fun to use.