Swimming Pool Waterproofing

A permanent, 5-year-warranted solution to water loss and leaks in swimming pools, using crystalline coatings and flexible membranes. A specialist team with 15+ years of experience in Istanbul and Izmir.

Quick Answer

Swimming pool waterproofing is the specialist coating application that renders the pool tank, overflow channel and plant room watertight against constant hydrostatic pressure and chemical attack. The pool is drained and the cracks in the concrete surface are repaired; then, depending on the situation, a crystalline coating or a fully bonded membrane waterproofing system is applied. The materials used are safe for contact with drinking water. The pool is handed back after a fill test and comes with a 5-year written warranty.

What Is Swimming Pool Waterproofing?

Swimming pool waterproofing is the technical sealing system applied to the internal and external faces of the reinforced concrete elements that form the pool structure, to prevent the passage of water. Because pools are permanently subjected to the hydrostatic pressure of many tonnes of water, the watertightness of standard concrete is not sufficient. A permanent water barrier is formed over the pool surfaces with crystalline coatings or flexible membrane systems, preventing water loss and structural damage.

With more than 15 years of site experience and its own Dryvatec materials, İMG Yapı Yalıtım Mühendislik A.Ş. is one of Türkiye's leading applicators of swimming pool waterproofing. From private residential pools to Olympic facilities, and from hotel pools to municipal swimming pools, we deliver professional solutions at every scale.

Swimming pool waterproofing team at work — crystalline coating
The Problem

Why Do Pools Lose Water and Leak?

Swimming pools are structures permanently subjected to the hydrostatic pressure of many tonnes of water. Micro-pores formed during the concrete pour, shrinkage cracks, cold joints and pipework penetrations gradually turn into escape routes for the water. In particular, waterproofing that was inadequate or poorly executed during the original construction shows itself as water loss from the very first season the pool is in use.

Seasonal temperature changes cause the pool concrete to expand and contract. These thermal movements widen existing cracks and create new micro-cracks. The freeze-thaw cycle in winter amplifies this effect further. Meanwhile, chlorine and pH imbalances in the pool water chemically erode the concrete surface, gradually increasing its permeability.

In areas with a high water table, external water pressure can act on an empty pool, causing the pool floor to heave or crack. Pool waterproofing must therefore be designed not only against water passing from inside to outside, but also against water pushing in from outside. Where there is a risk of two-way water pressure, a comprehensive waterproofing scheme supported by a drainage system should be prepared.

According to industry data, pools with missing or damaged waterproofing can lose 500-2,000 litres of water a day. On an annual basis this means serious water waste, high bills and structural damage to the surrounding ground. In pools left untreated, the concrete reinforcement corrodes and the pool structure suffers damage that is difficult to reverse.

Swimming pool water loss — condition before the application

Water Loss

The pool water level dropping faster than evaporation alone, the need for constant topping up and rising water bills

Ground Settlement

Garden subsidence, shifting paving and foundation settlement caused by escaping water softening the surrounding ground

Rebar Corrosion

The steel reinforcement in the pool concrete rusting rapidly on contact with chlorinated water, reducing its load-bearing capacity

Environmental Pollution

Chlorinated, chemical-laden pool water seeping into the soil and harming vegetation and the groundwater

Symptoms

Signs of a Pool Waterproofing Problem

If you have noticed one or more of the following signs, your pool has a waterproofing problem. Early intervention minimises structural damage and cost.

Abnormal Drop in Water Level

The pool water level dropping by more than 3 mm a day — water loss far above the evaporation rate. This is the clearest and most common sign of a leak. Having to top up more and more often is its herald.

Wet Ground Around the Pool

Persistently wet, soft or muddy areas of ground around or near the pool. A clear indicator that escaping water is spreading below ground and affecting the surrounding area.

Visible Cracks

Cracks visible to the eye in the pool walls or floor, opened tile joints. They point directly to the water's escape route and require urgent attention.

White Salt Deposits

White salt crystals (efflorescence) on the pool's external walls or in the surrounding area. Conclusive proof that water is passing through the concrete and carrying dissolved minerals with it.

Ground Subsidence

Visible subsidence and displacement in the garden, paving and terrace areas around or near the pool. It shows that long-term leakage has been eroding the ground.

Chemical Imbalance

The pool's chemical balance upset by constant topping up, rising chlorine consumption and cloudy water. An indirect but important indicator of a leak.

Choosing a Method

Method Comparison: Crystalline Coating vs Membrane System

There are two fundamental approaches to swimming pool waterproofing. The right method for each pool is determined through an on-site survey.

CriterionCrystalline CoatingMembrane System
Working PrinciplePenetrates the concrete pores and forms a crystalline structureForms a flexible water barrier layer on the surface
Crack BridgingLimited (up to 0.4 mm)High (flexible bridging up to 2 mm)
DurabilityPermanent — becomes part of the concreteHigh — but sensitive to mechanical impact
Chemical ResistanceResistant to chlorine and pool chemicalsChlorine- and UV-resistant formulations available
MaintenanceMaintenance-freePeriodic inspection recommended
Ideal UseNew pools, small cracks, good-quality concreteOld pools, larger cracks, structures subject to movement
Application TimeShorter (4-5 days including curing)Medium (5-7 days including coat curing)

At İMG Yapı Yalıtım Mühendislik A.Ş.we carry out both methods. During the on-site survey we determine the most suitable method for your pool's condition, its concrete quality and the extent of the damage, and deliver a solution backed by a 5-year warranty. Where required, we also apply the two methods in combination.

Application Process

The Application Process: Step by Step

A systematic pool waterproofing process developed over more than 15 years of site experience.

1

Survey & Water Loss Detection

Our specialist team inspects the pool thoroughly, assessing cracks, opened joints, pipework penetrations and the condition of the concrete surface in detail. The rate of water loss is established with precise measurement techniques and the leak points are located. Taking into account the pool’s age, the concrete quality, the surrounding ground conditions and the groundwater level, the most suitable waterproofing method is selected. Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of a permanent solution — a superficial assessment leads to an incomplete or faulty application.

2

Draining the Pool

The pool water is drained in a controlled manner. During drainage, the capacity of the surrounding drainage system is checked and the water is led away safely. Once the pool is completely empty, the floor and wall surfaces are dried. In areas with a high water table, the hydrostatic uplift acting on the pool floor is monitored during drainage and the necessary precautions are taken. The drainage rate is staged so as not to damage the concrete structure.

3

Surface Preparation

The existing tiles, mosaic, paint, old waterproofing or damaged render layers are completely removed. The surface is mechanically cleaned; dust, loose particles, algae residues and organic deposits are removed. Cracks and joints are opened up and filled with structural repair mortar. Sharp corners are chamfered, and the wall-floor junctions are rounded with a cove fillet. Purpose-made sealing details are prepared around pipe penetrations, the main drain, skimmers and light niches. The structural concrete surface is brought to a condition in which the waterproofing material can achieve full adhesion.

4

Waterproofing Application

Depending on the pool’s condition and the survey report, either a crystalline coating or a flexible membrane waterproofing system is applied. In the crystalline method, Dryvatec crystalline material is applied to all internal pool surfaces in at least two coats, forming a permanent crystalline structure within the concrete pores; the material becomes part of the concrete and provides lasting watertightness. In the membrane method, primer, reinforcement mesh and flexible membrane coats are applied in sequence; its elastic structure accommodates micro-movements. Corner junctions, pipe penetrations, main drain points, skimmer housings and overflow channel connections are strengthened with purpose-made details. Every critical point is backed up with reinforcing tape and sealing collars.

5

Fill Test

Once the curing period is complete, the pool is refilled in a controlled manner. The water level is marked to the millimetre and the pool is covered to prevent evaporation. The water level is monitored at regular intervals for 48-72 hours and the net water loss is measured. If no drop in the water level is detected, the application is deemed successful. If water loss is observed at any point, the area concerned is treated again and the test is repeated. The pool is never handed back without passing the fill test.

6

Warranty Certificate

Once the fill test has been passed, the pool is handed back ready for use and a 5-year written warranty certificate is issued. The warranty covers all application-related leakage and water loss. If any issue is reported during the warranty period, our team attends site as quickly as possible and intervenes at no charge. Photographs of the application area, the fill test results and the project report are archived and kept on record.

Technical Detail

Technical Requirements for Pool Waterproofing

For pool waterproofing to be successful and long-lasting, the following technical requirements must be met in full.

  • The pool must be completely empty and dry: There must be no standing water, damp or wet areas on the application surface. For a crystalline application the surface may be damp, but for a membrane it must be completely dry.
  • The structural concrete must be exposed: Tiles, paint, old waterproofing and damaged render layers must be completely removed. The new application goes directly onto clean concrete.
  • Structural repairs must be complete: Cracks, joints, segregation zones and damaged concrete areas must be reinstated with structural repair mortar before the application.
  • Corner details must be formed: Wall-floor junctions, internal corners and external corners must be prepared with a cove fillet or chamfer. Sharp corners create air pockets under a membrane and weaken adhesion.
  • Pipe penetrations need special detailing: Sealing collars and additional reinforcement layers must be applied around the main drain, skimmer, jet, light and return pipe penetrations.
  • Ambient temperature: The ambient temperature during application must be between +5°C and +35°C. In direct sunlight, care must be taken that the surface temperature does not exceed +40°C.
  • Curing time: A crystalline application requires at least 72 hours of damp curing; a membrane application requires at least 24 hours between coats.
  • The fill test is mandatory: After the application, the pool must be filled and a water loss test of at least 48 hours carried out. The pool is not handed back until the test is passed.
  • Chemical compatibility: The waterproofing materials used must be resistant to pool chemicals (chlorine, pH adjusters, algaecides) and UV radiation.
  • Drainage system: In areas with a high water table, a drainage system may need to be installed beneath the pool; otherwise, external water pressure on an empty pool can damage the structure.
Our Real Projects

Application Photographs

Real application stages from our swimming pool waterproofing projects. Click the photographs to enlarge them.

The Materials We Use in Pools: Dryvatec

In our swimming pool waterproofing work we use the crystalline coating, flexible membrane and injection materials of our own brand, Dryvatec. Because we manufacture the materials ourselves, quality control rests with us from start to finish. We work directly as the manufacturer, with no middleman margin.

Dryvatec products are resistant to pool chemicals, safe for contact with drinking water and manufactured in compliance with TSE EN standards. While many companies on the market buy materials from various brands, we use products made to our own formulation, giving us full control over material quality and the success of the application.

Crystalline WaterproofingFlexible MembraneInjection Material
Crystalline Product Details →Injection Details →
Video

Our Swimming Pool Waterproofing Work

Watch real site footage and application details on our YouTube channel.

Pool Types

Which Types of Pool Do We Work On?

We provide professional waterproofing for swimming pools of every size and kind.

Villa and Residential Pools

Permanent waterproofing of garden pools, villa pools and communal estate pools using the crystalline or membrane method. We offer pre-season maintenance and refurbishment. Residential pools are typically 25-80 m², so the application time can be kept short.

Hotel and Resort Pools

Professional waterproofing of hotel, holiday village and thermal facility pools with minimal downtime. Off-season scheduling avoids loss of business. On large projects, staged application can keep part of the pool complex in use.

Olympic and Semi-Olympic Pools

Large-scale pool waterproofing projects for municipal swimming pools, sports complexes and educational facilities. A comprehensive engineering solution for high-volume pools, including pressure calculations and drainage design.

Spa and Whirlpool Pools

Waterproofing solutions for spa centres, hammam pools and whirlpools, resistant to high temperatures and intensive chemical use. Small-scale applications that demand high precision.

Children's and Shallow Pools

Waterproofing of children's pools, shallow ornamental pools and water play areas with safe, health-compliant materials. Child safety comes first, with Dryvatec products certified for drinking water contact.

Overflow (Infinity) Pools

Complete waterproofing of deck-level and infinity pools, including the overflow channel, balance tank and return system. Overflow channel junction details demand particular care and expertise.

Why İMG Yapı Yalıtım Mühendislik?

Why Does Choosing the Right Contractor for Pool Waterproofing Matter?

The wrong material or a poor application can make the problem worse instead of solving it. In pools, choosing the right contractor is critical.

5-Year Warranty

We issue a 5-year written warranty certificate for every pool waterproofing application. Verified by a fill test — any issue covered by the warranty is resolved at no charge.

Our Own Brand: Dryvatec

We manufacture the waterproofing materials we use ourselves. No middleman margin, and quality control rests entirely with us. Direct manufacturer assurance.

Fill Test

We carry out a 48-72 hour fill test on every pool application. The pool is not handed back until the test is passed. The success of the application is proven measurably.

15+ Years of Experience

Since 2009 we have completed pool waterproofing projects at every scale, from residential pools to Olympic facilities. We have delivered solutions in every condition.

Istanbul & Izmir

Rapid response to every district from our Maltepe (Istanbul) and Konak (Izmir) offices. Local teams and material depots in both major cities.

Technical Survey

Rather than covering the problem superficially, we trace it to its root. Water loss measurement and a detailed survey lay the foundation of a permanent solution.

Service Areas

Swimming Pool Waterproofing in Istanbul and Izmir

From our two offices we provide swimming pool waterproofing across every district of Istanbul and Izmir.

Swimming pool waterproofing service in Istanbul
Istanbul

From our Maltepe office we provide swimming pool waterproofing to every district of Istanbul. On-site surveys and applications on both the European and Asian sides.

KadıköyMaltepeÜsküdarBeşiktaşŞişliBeylikdüzüPendikBakırköyAtaşehirKartal
Aydınevler Mah. Kırçiçeği Cad. No:25/F, Maltepe / Istanbul
Swimming pool waterproofing service in Izmir
Izmir

From our Konak office we provide swimming pool waterproofing to every district of Izmir. A wide service network across the Aegean region.

KonakBornovaKarşıyakaBayraklıBucaKarabağlarÇiğliGaziemirUrlaTorbalı
Mersinli, 1202. Sk. No:174/B, 35170 Konak / Izmir
Frequently Asked Questions

Swimming Pool Waterproofing — Your Questions Answered

We have compiled the questions our clients ask most often, together with our technical answers.

Related Services

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Make the concrete itself watertight with a crystalline admixture in new pours. The ideal solution for pool concrete.

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Resin Injection Waterproofing

Stop active water leaks in cracks and joints within minutes using acrylate gel and polyurethane resin injection.

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Let Our Specialists Assess Your Pool

For water loss or a leak in your swimming pool, fill in the survey request form or give us a call. Our technical team will get back to you as soon as possible to arrange an on-site assessment and survey.

Monday-Saturday 08:00-18:00