Thursday, May 29, 2025 / by Chala Strimple
Pool “Cancer” in Central Texas Pools – What You Really Need to Know (Without the Overwhelm!)
Hi, it’s Tanya. Let’s break this down in a clear, no-nonsense way.
So… what’s this “pool cancer” everyone’s talking about? Is it a big deal? Yep. But don’t freak out – I’ll break it down for you. If you’re buying a home in Georgetown or anywhere in Central Texas, or you already have a pool, this is something you wanna know about.
Let’s dive in (but not into a leaky pool, okay? ??).
[LINK TO OUR IG VIDEO HERE]
What Is “Pool Cancer”? (aka ASR)
“Pool cancer” is just a nickname for a big concrete problem called Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR). Think of it like your pool’s concrete having a sneaky chemical fight inside it. When the cement in the concrete mixes with certain sands and water, it makes a gel that swells up. This swelling causes cracks.
The cracks can look like:
? Spiderwebs
? Weird white goop oozing out
? Tiles popping off
? Water leaking out of the pool
It’s called “concrete cancer” because the cracks spread kind of like how a disease spreads. And it’s tough to fix once it starts.
Why Is This Happening in Central Texas Pools?
Between 2018 and 2022, a lot of pools were built fast in Central Texas – in places like Georgetown, Austin, and Round Rock. But a few things went wrong:
?? Some builders used the wrong kind of concrete mix – they left out something called fly ash that helps prevent this reaction.
?? The sand used in the concrete may have come from places where it reacts more with the cement (like near Bastrop).
?? Everyone was rushing to build pools during the pandemic, and some skipped quality checks.
?? Texas doesn’t require a pool builder’s license or special concrete tests – so things slipped through the cracks (literally).
How Do You Know If a Pool Has “Concrete Cancer”?
Here are the big clues:
?? Spiderweb cracks that spread
?? White goo or crust coming out of the cracks
?? Tiles popping off, especially near the spa or hot tub
?? Water leaking or pipes breaking
?? Cracks that get worse over time
If you see any of this in a pool built between 2018 and 2022, pay attention! It’s not always easy to spot, though. Sometimes the cracks start inside the concrete where you can’t see them.
Inspections – Why They Matter & How I Can Help
Here’s the deal: when you’re thinking of buying a home with a pool (especially one built between 2018–2022), getting the pool inspected is a must. Regular home inspectors might not spot “pool cancer” because it often hides inside the concrete.
That’s why you need:
?? A
pool-specific inspection – done by a pool expert who knows what to look for (cracks, white goo, tile issues). There are even companies that specialize in
leak detection and identifying early signs of ASR
??Core sampling – the only surefire way to confirm ASR is by taking a concrete sample from the pool shell and having it tested. But this is invasive and expensive, so it’s usually a last resort.
?? Ask me! As your trusted Realtor, I can connect you with the right pool pros who know the signs. I’ll make sure you get an inspection that’s worth your time and money.
?? Peace of mind – a good inspection can tell you if it’s a safe buy or if you should walk away. It can also give you the upper hand when negotiating the price.
Don’t skip this step – it could save you from a major headache later.
Can You Fix “Pool Cancer”?
Well… it’s expensive. ?? Often, the only real fix is to tear out the old concrete and rebuild the pool. That can cost $100,000 or more. Some people decide to just fill the pool in instead.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
Because it’s happening a lot around here! People didn’t know it was a thing, and now there are lawsuits, bankrupt pool builders, and homeowners stuck with pools they can’t use.
If you’re buying a home with a pool, it’s super important to check it out first. Don’t assume it’s fine just because it looks pretty.
Bottom Line: Don’t Panic – Just Be Smart
Here’s what you need to remember:
?? Pools built from 2018–2022 in Central Texas could have this problem.
?? Look for cracks, white goo, and popped tiles.
?? Ask the right questions and get the pool checked by an expert.
?? It’s better to spend a little time and money now than deal with a huge headache later.
Remember – you’ve got this. And if you’re ever unsure, I’m here to help guide you through it. ????
Want a quick checklist you can print out for pool inspections? Comment ASR and I send it to you.
?? TL;DR
“Pool cancer” (ASR) is a concrete defect causing cracks, leaks, and costly damage in many Central Texas pools built 2018–2022. Look for signs like spiderweb cracks, white residue, and popping tiles. Inspections are key. I (Tanya) can help connect you with trusted pool pros so you don’t get stuck with a bad pool. Be smart, not sorry.
?? FAQs
Q: What is “pool cancer” or ASR?
A: A chemical reaction inside concrete that causes cracks and damage in pools.
Q: Why is it a problem in Central Texas?
A: Builders used bad mixes and reactive sand during the 2018–2022 pool boom, and inspections were skipped.
Q: How can I tell if a pool has ASR?
A: Look for spiderweb cracks, white goo, loose tiles, leaks, or signs of repairs.
Q: Can I fix it?
A: Usually, the only real fix is a total rebuild of the pool shell – and it’s expensive.
Q: How do I protect myself when buying?
A: Get a pool-specific inspection and ask your Realtor (me!) to help.
