Bulletproof Backyard Oasis: Why Our Pool Shell Outperforms the Competition
You are investing in more than just a pool—you are investing in a permanent, high-value addition to your home. When it comes to pool construction, the industry often cuts costs on the things you can’t see: the pool shell's structural integrity.
We don't. Our construction methods exceed industry standards, ensuring your pool lasts for decades with minimal risk of structural issues, leaks, and cracking. Here is a look at the key areas where our pools are fundamentally stronger, safer, and a better long-term investment.
The Backbone: A Superior Steel Reinforcement Cage
The steel framework (rebar) is the structural backbone of your pool shell, resisting the massive forces exerted by the soil and the water. We boost this critical element in two ways:
Higher-Strength Rebar (Grade 60 vs. Grade 40): The industry standard often uses Grade 40 (40 ksi) rebar. We use Grade 60 (60 ksi) rebar throughout your entire pool shell. This means the steel we use is 50% stronger than the standard material. This extra strength provides superior resistance to large ground movements, ensuring your pool holds its shape under pressure.
Tighter Rebar Spacing (9" O.C. vs. 10–12" O.C.): The closer the reinforcing bars are, the more support the concrete has. Unless otherwise specified by a structural engineer, we space our rebar at a maximum of 9 inches on center (O.C.), while many competitors space theirs at 10 to 12 inches. This tighter grid means more steel is used, creating a denser, more rigid structure that minimizes stress and deflection in the concrete.
The Mix: Engineered for Durability and Longevity
The concrete itself is where long-term problems often begin. We take proactive steps to eliminate the two biggest risks: cracking and chemical degradation.
Integrated Fiber Mesh for Crack Control: Micro-cracks, known as plastic shrinkage cracks, are common in freshly applied concrete and can eventually lead to water penetration. We mix fiber mesh directly into the pool shell material. This network of fibers acts as a microscopic safety net, controlling these tiny cracks and ensuring a tighter, more durable, and less permeable shell surface from the start.
Reactive Aggregate Testing (ASR Prevention): A major failure point in concrete is the Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR), where reactive minerals in the aggregate swell and crack the concrete from the inside out. We require certification from our suppliers that the aggregate has been tested using the rigorous ASTM C1260 method. This ensures the stone used in your pool shell is non-reactive, greatly reducing the risk of ASR-related structural degradation years down the line.
The Seal: Advanced Waterproofing Protection
Finally, we add an extra layer of protection that most competitors skip entirely: Colloidal Silicate Waterproofing.
Creating a Permanent Internal Seal: After the pool shell cures, we apply a colloidal silicate treatment. This material penetrates the concrete and reacts with the naturally occurring lime, forming a permanent, insoluble gel within the concrete's pores and capillaries.
This internal seal significantly reduces the concrete’s permeability, dramatically lowering the risk of water seepage and protecting the steel rebar from corrosion, extending the life of your pool shell.
The True Cost of Cutting Corners
A pool built to minimum standards might save you a few thousand dollars upfront, but what is the cost of potential failure? A pool that cracks, leaks, or suffers from ASR damage can require extensive, costly repairs that involve draining the pool and potentially resurfacing the interior.
Texas Tiny Pools will never participate in the “race to the bottom” by cutting corners on these important structural elements. By investing slightly more in a Texas Tiny Pool, you are buying:
Peace of Mind: Confidence that your pool shell is built to last.
Lower Maintenance: Reduced risk of leaks and crack-related repairs.
True Value: A structurally sound asset that maintains its value over decades.
Choose the pool that is built for life. Choose a Texas Tiny Pool!
