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Soils Engineer Can Inspect Deck, Suggest Best Solution For Cracking

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By PAUL ROTH The Orlando Sentinel

Published: November 24, 2007

Updated: 11/23/2007 06:34 pm

We are redoing our pool's interior and would also like to take care of cracking in the perimeter deck.

Most of the cracking is random, spider cracks in the colored concrete; however, in several spots, the cracks are more severe and cross the deck perpendicularly to the pool edge.

One of the workmen doing the interior finish said that he has a side business that would inject concrete under the severe cracks to take care of any washout. Is this kind of injection a worthwhile solution, and if so, are there specialists who are bonded who do this?

Concrete injection, also known as pressure grouting, is a specialized field. It is used most often when the pool deck or pool shell is collapsing because of unstable shifting and possible erosion of the compacted soil underground.

We suggest you contact a licensed, trained and insured soils engineer to inspect your pool area.

If you filled in one spot with concrete, are there other cracks that would occur later?

A written report from a trained professional could discover a more serious problem or find that it is minor and a concrete injection is not the solution.

Give your pool deck area a thorough checkup, and evaluate the expert's opinion before proceeding.

Before you talk to anyone about pressure grouting (if this is the recommended remedy) under your deck, we suggest you get a written estimate. Then check on the company's licensing, insurance and training. Ask for references, and follow up by calling them.

See what a bond would cover. Make sure you understand all parts of the written contract and any payment schedule before signing the contract.

Questions are answered by Paul Roth, a member of the Florida Swimming Pool Association, Central Florida Chapter, an industry trade group. Address questions to In the Swim, Orlando Sentinel, MP-240, 633 N. Orange Ave., Orlando FL 32801, or send e-mail to twinefordner@

orlandosentinel.com. For a list of FSPA member companies, call 1-800-416-6774.

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