How to Tell If Your Pool Surface Is Damaged (And What to Do About It)
Jackson had always been proud of his backyard pool in Roseville. It was the centerpiece of every summer barbecue and weekend gathering. But last month, as he ran his hand along the wall while vacuuming the bottom, he noticed something rough—a small patch that didn’t feel like the smooth surface he was used to. A week later, he spotted a thin crack along the floor. Suddenly, his crystal-clear oasis didn’t feel so perfect. Was it time to resurface? Or could this be something worse?
What Counts as Surface Damage?
Not every little blemish is cause for alarm. Pools naturally wear over time, especially with constant use and exposure to chemicals and weather. But there are clear signs that your pool surface might be more than just aged—it could be damaged.
Rough Textures That Weren’t There Before
If your pool surface feels like sandpaper instead of silky-smooth plaster, that’s not just normal aging. Rough textures often signal erosion of the finish. For swimmers, this can mean scrapes and snagged swimsuits, but for the pool, it means the protective surface is starting to break down.
Discoloration That Won’t Go Away
A stain here and there from leaves or debris is common. But if you’re seeing large blotches of discoloration or patches that don’t improve with cleaning, you could be dealing with deeper staining or chemical imbalance that has damaged the surface.
Cracks, Chips, or Flaking
Small cracks may seem cosmetic at first, but they can quickly become structural problems. Flaking plaster or chipped tiles are signs that water may be seeping into places it shouldn’t—and that could lead to much bigger problems if ignored.
Water Loss That Isn’t Just Evaporation
Evaporation is expected, especially during hot summers in Northern California. But if you find yourself constantly refilling your pool, or you’re losing more than an inch or two of water per week, surface damage could be part of the problem. Cracks can lead to leaks, even if they aren’t immediately visible.
Increased Maintenance or Chemical Usage
If your pool suddenly becomes harder to keep clean, or if you’re using more chemicals than usual to keep water chemistry balanced, there may be a hidden issue with the surface. Damaged surfaces create hiding spots for algae and bacteria, making maintenance more difficult and water quality more unstable.
What Causes Pool Surface Damage?
Northern California’s fluctuating temperatures and hard water can be hard on pool surfaces. Improper chemical balance, poor water circulation, lack of regular cleaning, and natural wear and tear all play a role. Some pool finishes naturally last longer than others—plaster may need resurfacing every 7-10 years, while high-end pebble finishes can go 15+ years.
What to Do If You See the Signs
Spot something concerning? First, don’t panic. Small cracks or rough patches don’t necessarily mean you need to resurface immediately, but they do mean it’s time for a professional inspection. The sooner you identify whether it’s a minor issue or something more serious, the easier (and cheaper) it will be to fix.
When to Call American Dream Pool and Spa Service
If you live in Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, or nearby areas, American Dream Pool and Spa Service is just a call away. We specialize in inspecting and repairing pool surfaces before small issues turn into costly disasters. Our team will check for cracks, weak spots, and areas of erosion, and we’ll walk you through the best repair or resurfacing options for your pool type and budget.
Protecting Your Pool Investment
Regular cleaning, balanced chemical levels, and seasonal inspections are the best defense against surface damage. But when problems arise, catching them early makes all the difference. Your pool is more than just a water feature—it’s part of your home, your lifestyle, and your happy place. Keep it in top condition by staying aware of what’s going on beneath the surface.
Need help or a second opinion on your pool surface? Contact American Dream Pool and Spa Service for expert repairs, resurfacing, and maintenance throughout Northern California.
American Dream Pool and Spa Service is a trusted provider of pool and spa maintenance, repair, and cleaning services. They serve the areas of Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, and Sheridan, CA, offering comprehensive care for both residential and commercial pools. Their services include everything from routine maintenance to specialized repairs for pool and spa equipment, ensuring that every pool owner enjoys a clean, safe, and well-maintained pool or spa throughout the year. With a focus on customer satisfaction, American Dream Pool and Spa Service strives to keep pools in top condition, regardless of the season.
