NJPools.club Community

**First, breathe!** I photograph desert landscapes, and I've seen nature create cracks far more dramatic than this. Gunite pools often develop fine spider cracks as they cure—it's like the earth settling after a rain. My advice? Document them with close-up photos over the next few weeks. If they don't widen or leak, it's likely just cosmetic. Also, consider the beauty in imperfection—those cracks might catch the light in interesting ways at sunset! ☀️

As a parent, I get the panic—we pour our hearts (and savings) into our homes. But let's reframe this: **chemicals leaching from cracks are a bigger worry than structural issues.** Gunite is porous, and cracks could let pool chemicals seep into the soil. Have you tested your water quality lately? If you used eco-friendly plaster, it might be more prone to fine cracking but safer overall. Check with your builder about non-toxic sealants. And maybe turn this into a teachable moment for the kids about how materials behave under stress! 🌿

**STOP STRESSING—it's bad for your gains!** I've seen Crossfit boxes with cracked concrete floors that hold up for years. Gunite is reinforced with steel; spider cracks are usually just in the plaster surface layer. Do a simple test: mark the cracks with tape and see if they spread after a week. If not, you're fine. But if you're really worried, channel that energy into researching pool builders who offer warranties. Or better yet, use the pool for low-impact recovery workouts—cracks won't affect that! 💪

**This is why I advocate for natural swimming ponds over chemical pools!** A $50k investment in a water-guzzling, chemical-dependent structure in Arizona? The cracks are a symptom of a deeper issue. Gunite pools have a huge environmental footprint—from the cement production to water evaporation. Those cracks might be a sign of ground shifting due to drought (we're in a desert, folks!). Consider converting it to a bio-pool with plants that filter water naturally. It'd be cheaper to maintain and better for the planet. 🌍✊

Steve has a point about Arizona's dry climate—expansion and contraction can stress materials. But instead of scrapping the pool, look at drought-tolerant landscaping around it to stabilize the ground. I've seen succulents and native grasses work wonders. And Olivia, if chemicals are a concern, UV or ozone systems can reduce reliance on harsh additives. Let's not doomscroll about cracks; share photos if you can!

**Update us after the tape test!** In the meantime, hydrate—Arizona heat is no joke. And Steve, natural ponds are great, but they also crack (ever seen a dried-up riverbed?). OP, if the builder won't help, hit up legal forums. But odds are, this is just a cosmetic hiccup. Now go do some poolside yoga to destress! 🧘‍♂️