A new pool can appear finished until a damp patch forms beside the shell, a step corner opens, or the water level drops without a clear explanation.
The coating is not always the starting point of the problem. Dust, cement laitance, curing residue, weak concrete, and small voids can prevent a membrane from bonding to sound material.
Before applying a pool waterproofing system, inspect the complete shell. Include steps, corners, drains, lights, pipe penetrations, construction joints, and fittings. A surface that looks smooth may still be contaminated or structurally weak.