Galvanized steel pools can last a very long time when properly maintained. The lifespan of a galvanized steel pool depends on several factors like the quality of the original galvanized coating, the pool’s location and exposure to elements, how well the water chemistry is maintained, and the frequency of cleaning and upkeep. With optimal conditions, a galvanized steel pool can last 20-30 years or more.
Page Contents
- 1 What is a Galvanized Steel Pool?
- 2 Factors that Determine Lifespan
- 3 Expected Lifespan
- 4 Signs of Aging
- 5 Improving Lifespan
- 6 When to Consider Resurfacing or Replace
- 6.1 Galvanized Coating Replacement
- 6.2 inserts a table comparing galvanized coating replacement to other resurfacing options –> Resurfacing Option Process Cost Range Expected Lifespan Galvanized Coating Replacement Sandblast old finish, hot-dip galvanize with new zinc layer $15,000 – $25,000 15-25 years Paint Sandblast, prime and paint with epoxy system $5,000 – $10,000 5-10 years New Vinyl Liner Remove old liner, install new 45-55 mil reinforced vinyl $5,000 – $8,000 5-10 years Complete Replacement
- 7 Conclusion
What is a Galvanized Steel Pool?
Galvanized steel pools are made out of steel panels that have been hot-dip galvanized. This means the panels are submerged in a bath of molten zinc to coat them with a thick, protective layer. The zinc bonds very strongly to the steel and provides a tough barrier against corrosion and rust.
Galvanized steel pools are often more affordable than other pool construction materials like concrete, fiberglass or vinyl liners. The galvanized coating allows manufacturers to use lightweight steel that can still withstand outdoor exposure. These pools are very durable but require some periodic maintenance to maximize lifespan.
Factors that Determine Lifespan
There are several key factors that impact how long a galvanized steel pool will last before needing major repairs or replacement:
Quality of Galvanized Coating
The thickness and quality of the original galvanized coating greatly affects longevity. Thicker coatings provide more zinc to protect the underlying steel. High quality galvanizing baths also ensure more uniform and complete coverage. A thicker zinc layer of 3-5 mils will last substantially longer than a thinner 1-3 mil coating.
Pool Location and Exposure
How exposed the pool is to sunlight, water, chemicals and weather will determine deterioration rates. Pools in hot, humid climates or under trees and foliage will age faster. Areas with greater temperature swings, salty coastal humidity, pollution and regular freezing/thawing cycles also accelerate wear. Proper winterization is very important in colder zones.
Water Chemistry Maintenance
Keeping pH, alkalinity, chlorine and mineral balances in the proper range greatly extends the life of the pool’s galvanized coating. Letting levels fluctuate widely or become too far out of spec can damage the coating much faster through etching, corrosion and staining.
Regular Cleaning and Care
Frequent skimming, brushing, vacuuming and filter cleaning keeps the water clear and prevents scale buildup. Periodic use of stain removers keeps the zinc layer looking fresh. Off-season steps like draining, covering and checking for leaks also preserve the pool.
Expected Lifespan
With optimal conditions and care, a galvanized steel pool can easily last 20-30 years or longer. Well-made pools with thick galvanized coatings, minimally exposed installation sites, and consistent water chemistry maintenance could even exceed 30 years before major restoration work is needed.
However, lifespan can be far less – 10 years or under – with poor quality construction, maximal sun and water exposure, and inconsistent or improper chemical maintenance.
Here are some general lifespan estimates based on conditions:
20-30 Years Plus
– High quality, thick 3-5 mil galvanized coating
– Installation in low sun, low humidity environment
– Consistent, careful water chemistry maintenance
– Regular cleaning, seasonal steps taken
15-20 Years
– Moderate 2-3 mil galvanized coating
– Some sun and humidity exposure
– Occasional water chemistry lapses
– Intermittent cleaning and winterization
10-15 Years
– Thin 1-2 mil galvanized coating
– High sun and/or saltwater exposure
– Irregular water chemistry maintenance
– Minimal cleaning and winter prep
5-10 Years
– Very thin galvanized layer, less than 1 mil
– Maximal sun and water exposure, high humidity
– Little or no water chemistry management
– No consistent maintenance or winterization
Signs of Aging
There are visible signs to watch out for as a galvanized steel pool ages:
– Rust spots and corrosion around bolts, seams and corners
– White staining or large flaky patches on pool floor and walls
– Visible wear, holes and thinning in underwater surfaces
– Pitting, cracks, swelling or delamination of panels
– Galvanized coating appears dull and rough
Once breakdown of the galvanized layer is visible, deterioration can accelerate as unprotected steel is exposed to water. At this point, major restoration work is likely needed to bring the pool back up to peak condition.
Improving Lifespan
Here are tips to maximize the years of service from a galvanized steel pool:
Annual Reconditioning
Having a maintenance professional recondition the pool at least once a year will greatly extend its life. Reconditioning includes:
– Checking and repairing leaks
– Patching minor corrosion spots
– Smoothing rough areas in the coating
– Applying new galvanized coating to worn surfaces
– Removing stains and discoloration
Keep the Water Balanced
Test and adjust chlorine, pH and total alkalinity at least weekly. Calcium hardness and cyanuric acid should also be monitored. Use an automatic chemical feeder for consistent sanitizer levels.
Clean Frequently
Skim the surface daily and vacuum at least weekly to control debris buildup. Brush walls and floor regularly to prevent scale formation. Backwash filters when pressure rises.
Control Water Level
Avoid overflows and topping off with fresh water too often. Only add enough make-up water to replace losses from splashing, backwashing and evaporation. Too much dilution drops chemical levels.
Use a Pool Cover
A tight-fitting cover prevents overnight evaporation, heat loss and debris contamination. It also reduces chemical demand and can cut winterization costs. Remove standing water after rains.
Winterize Properly
In cold zones, drain all water from the pool, pipes and equipment or maintain circulation with the proper antifreeze solution. Install winter plugs. Check for leaks, cracks and other damage at spring opening.
Monitor Condition
Inspect surfaces at least monthly for corrosion spots, damage, staining or buildup issues. Catch small problems before they multiply. Know when to call in a pro for repairs.
When to Consider Resurfacing or Replace
Even with great care, there comes a time when an aging galvanized steel pool requires major renewal work to restore its structure, function and appearance. Typical signs it may be time for resurfacing or replacement include:
– Through-wall leaks or cracks unable to patch
– Widespread corrosion and perforations
– Deep pitting that collects debris and dirt
– Significant loss of original galvanized coating
– Crumbling steps, benches or attachments
– Pool no longer maintains proper water levels
– Visible damage that is aesthetically unappealing
Galvanized Coating Replacement
For pools with sound overall structure and moderate surface wear, having a professional re-galvanize the steel is often the most cost-effective option. This involves:
– Sandblasting old galvanized finish
– Repairing leaks and applying steel reinforcements
– Hot-dip galvanizing tanks to coat with fresh zinc layer
Cost for regalvanizing a medium-sized pool can range from $15,000-25,000. Lifespan of the new coating is 15-25 years with proper care.