Cancer Concrete: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How Emerald Custom Pools Does It Differently

When it comes to inground pool construction, homeowners often focus on aesthetics, tile selections, and water features—but there’s one silent enemy beneath the surface that can ruin your investment: cancer concrete. At Emerald Custom Pools, we’ve built a reputation not only for creating stunning outdoor spaces but also for using superior construction techniques that protect your pool’s structural integrity for years to come.

In fact, out of over 1,000 pools built, Emerald Custom Pools has never experienced a single structural failure. That’s not luck—that’s the result of detailed planning, expert craftsmanship, and construction standards that go far beyond what most builders provide.

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What Causes Cancer Concrete in Pools?

Cancer concrete is a term used in the pool industry to describe deteriorating concrete that is breaking down prematurely, often from the inside out. Just like a disease, it starts small—unnoticeable to the average eye—but over time, it spreads, weakening your pool’s shell and surrounding structures.

It’s not a technical term used in engineering textbooks, but among experienced pool professionals, it’s a serious red flag that indicates improper construction practices or poor material choices during the original build.

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How Emerald Custom Pools Builds Better to Prevent Cancer Concrete

At Emerald Custom Pools, we don’t just build beautiful pools—we build long-lasting, structurally sound pools with construction practices that exceed industry standards. Our approach is the reason why we’ve completed over 1,000 custom pools with zero structural failures.

Here’s how we make that happen:

✅ In-House Construction Crews

Unlike many builders who subcontract nearly every phase, we use in-house teams for excavation, steel, plumbing, and masonry. This gives us control over quality, scheduling, and accountability. Our crews know our standards—and they meet them every time.

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✅ Proper Steel Reinforcement with Rust Prevention

We follow strict guidelines for rebar placement and clearance. We use non-corrosive chairs to elevate rebar and ensure it’s not too close to the surface, where it can rust and expand. For special cases, we even use epoxy-coated rebar or additional protective measures.

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✅ Superior Gunite Application

Our gunite crews apply material at the correct pressure, thickness, and hydration levels to ensure a dense, strong pool shell. We inspect shell thickness at all critical points and make corrections on-site if needed—no shortcuts.

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✅ Strategic Waterproofing

We apply waterproofing systems to all vulnerable structural elements, including raised beams, water features, and retaining walls. This is one of the most overlooked steps in the industry—and one of the most critical.

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✅ Proper Soil Preparation & Drainage Planning

Before the first shovel hits the ground, our team performs site evaluations to determine soil conditions and drainage flow. We make sure our pools are built on solid, properly compacted foundations—never over unstable or expansive soil without engineering.

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✅ Use of Quality Materials

From high-grade concrete mixtures to top-tier plumbing fittings and waterproofing membranes, we refuse to cut corners on materials. Every material used is sourced with long-term durability in mind.

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Why This Matters for Homeowners

Cancer concrete isn’t just an eyesore—it’s a costly problem that stems from poor construction practices. But when you work with Emerald Custom Pools, you’re choosing a builder with a proven record: over 1,000 pools built, and zero structural failures. That peace of mind is what sets us apart from builder-grade competition.

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Have a Pool That’s Showing Signs of Concrete Failure?

If you’re already seeing cracking, flaking, or rust spots in your pool structure, it may not be too late. Our Emerald Pool Care division specializes in pool remodeling and structural repairs, including diagnosing and correcting cancer concrete issues.

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Bottom Line: You Deserve Better Than “Builder Grade”

Cancer concrete is a preventable problem—but only if your builder knows what to look for and refuses to cut corners. At Emerald Custom Pools, we’ve built over 1,000 pools without a single structural failure. That’s the difference craftsmanship, consistency, and commitment make.

📞 Contact us today for a design consultation or structural evaluation.
📍 Serving Dallas-Fort Worth and surrounding areas