What Austin Homeowners Need to Know About Concrete Cancer
Imagine building your dream pool, only to watch it crack and crumble—sometimes just months after completion. That’s the harsh reality many Austin homeowners have faced due to a hidden threat lurking in the concrete: “concrete cancer.” But here’s the good news—this issue is isolated, and not all pool builders are affected. In fact, some, like Texas Pools and Patios, have built a reputation on avoiding these exact problems.
Understanding Concrete Cancer: The Silent Pool Destroyer
Concrete cancer, or Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR), is a chemical reaction that occurs when the alkaline cement in concrete reacts with reactive silica in certain aggregates, especially in the presence of moisture. This reaction produces a gel that expands, causing internal pressure and leading to cracking and deterioration of the concrete. citeturn0search12
In Central Texas, this issue has plagued pools built between 2017 and 2023, with many homeowners facing costly repairs or complete rebuilds.
The Culprits Behind the Crisis
Investigations have pinpointed the problem to defective concrete mixes supplied by a few distributors. These companies provided materials lacking in essential components like fly ash, which helps mitigate ASR. As a result, numerous pools constructed with these materials have suffered from premature cracking and structural failures.
Why Texas Pools and Patios Stands Apart
Amidst this turmoil, Texas Pools and Patios has remained a beacon of quality and reliability. Their secret? TruGunite—a proprietary pool shell construction method that offers unparalleled strength and durability.
Unlike traditional shotcrete or wetcrete methods, which involve pre-mixing water with cement and aggregates (leading to higher water content and potential weaknesses), TruGunite involves a dry mix of sand and cement that’s pneumatically applied. Water is added only at the nozzle, ensuring a consistent and controlled mix with just 17% water content.
In addition, for homeowners still concerned about ASR, we offer an engineered ASR-Certified concrete mixture. This advanced formula is specifically designed to resist the chemical reactions that cause concrete cancer. Pools built with this certified mix come with a significantly stronger warranty, so if ASR is ever detected in the future, you’re covered.
Key Advantages of TruGunite:
- Superior Strength: TruGunite boasts a compressive strength exceeding 5,000 PSI, compared to 2,000–3,000 PSI for traditional methods.
- Reduced Shrinkage: Lower water content means minimal shrinkage and fewer cracks.
- Enhanced Durability: The dense, impermeable structure resists chemical attacks and water penetration.
- Watertight Integrity: Ensures a leak-free pool, providing peace of mind for homeowners.
By choosing Texas Pools and Patios, homeowners in Austin and San Antonio can rest assured that their pools are built to last, free from the threats posed by concrete cancer.
Real Stories, Real Assurance
While many pool owners in Central Texas grapple with the consequences of ASR, clients of Texas Pools and Patios enjoy their backyard retreats without worry. The company’s commitment to quality materials and construction practices has shielded their customers from the widespread issues affecting the region.
“Texas Pools and Patios was recommended to me by a close friend in the pool business. I did a ton of research prior to choosing them to install my pool. They do amazing work and they make you feel like you are their only client by how responsive they are. The teams they have working for them, from excavation to plaster to electricians are wonderful. Big thank you to Kevin and Bailey who went out of their way to make sure I was 100% satisfied. Highly recommend.”
Casey S. – 5 Star Google Review
Conclusion: Building with Confidence
The recent concrete cancer crisis has highlighted the importance of choosing a reputable and quality-focused pool builder. Texas Pools and Patios’ innovative TruGunite technology offers homeowners in the Austin area a reliable solution, ensuring their backyard investments remain safe and enjoyable for years to come.
Don’t let concrete cancer dampen your dreams. Trust Texas Pools and Patios to build your perfect backyard oasis.
About Texas Pools and Patios
With decades of experience serving Central Texas, Texas Pools and Patios is dedicated to crafting high-quality, custom pools that stand the test of time. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every project, ensuring homeowners receive the backyard paradise they’ve always envisioned.