Owning a custom pool is one of the best ways to enhance outdoor living and enjoy your home to the fullest — but when winter arrives, proper pool maintenance becomes essential to protect your investment. Whether you’ve worked with professional pool builders or inground pool contractors, seasonal care keeps your system efficient and your surfaces damage-free all year.

Below are professional tips from BGI Pools, trusted custom pool builders and concrete pool contractors near Myrtle Beach, to maintain your pool’s beauty and performance even through cooler months.

Step 1: Balance Water Chemistry Before Closing

Even when temperatures drop, your pool’s chemistry matters. Before shutting down your system, test and balance pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels.

• Use a winterizing chemical kit to prevent algae growth.
• Keep chlorine levels stable (between 1–3 ppm).
• If your area sees freezing weather, add algaecide and cover the pool to reduce debris buildup.

Balanced water prevents corrosion and scaling — saving money on resurfacing or repairs later.

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Step 2: Protect Pool Equipment and Plumbing

For inground pools, especially those built by top concrete pool builders near you, safeguarding mechanical equipment is crucial.

• Drain all pumps, filters, and heaters to prevent freeze damage.
• Disconnect and store removable components like skimmer baskets, ladders, and vacuums.
• Cover exposed plumbing with insulation or foam to prevent cracking.

Routine equipment checks by a pool construction company in South Carolina ensure efficiency before reopening in spring.

Step 3: Clean the Pool Area & Cover Properly

Debris like leaves and dirt can damage pool surfaces and filtration systems. Before covering your pool:

• Vacuum and brush walls, steps, and pool decks.
• Inspect for cracks, loose tiles, or worn coping.
• Ensure the pool cover fits tightly and is securely anchored.

For concrete or gunite pools, cleaning is especially important — dirt and organic matter can stain plaster surfaces or clog drains.

Step 4: Maintain Outdoor Living Features During Off-Season

Winter is the perfect time to inspect and maintain your outdoor living and pool deck areas.

• Seal concrete pavers or hardscape surfaces to prevent moisture damage.
• Clean and cover outdoor kitchens, seating, and entertainment zones.
• Add lighting or heating upgrades to create usable winter spaces.

A well-maintained pool design and construction layout keeps your backyard functional and beautiful even when the water’s too cold to swim.

Step 5: Schedule a Winter Pool Inspection

Partner with professionals for a mid-winter checkup. Regular visits from inground pool contractors can identify hidden issues like plumbing leaks, structural wear, or filter damage before they become costlier in spring.

This proactive step keeps water systems running smoothly and extends the life of your residential inground swimming pool.

Keep Your Pool Ready for Next Season

When properly maintained, concrete and gunite pools last a lifetime. By investing time in winter maintenance, you’ll prevent costly repairs and ensure your swimming pool installation is always ready for the warm weather ahead.

For expert help preparing your pool for winter or planning off-season upgrades, contact BGI Pools — the leading custom pool builders serving South Carolina’s Grand Strand region.