Swimming pool ownership in St. Augustine is definitely a great way to enjoy the warm weather in Florida. However, it also comes with a certain level of responsibility – particularly when leaks or drips come up. Pool leaks are a source of discomfort, and if kept for a long time, they are capable of causing higher water bills, structural damage, and turning into very expensive repairs. Any pool owner must be aware of the causes of leaks, the way they get recognized, and the moment when it is necessary to call a professional.
This guide on St. Augustine pool repair acts as your workbook on how to keep the pool in good shape all the time and still save your money.
Why Pool Leaks Are Common in St. Augustine
The peculiar environment of St. Augustine is one of the main reasons that causes the wear and tear of pools. The sandy soil, the changing levels of groundwater, the heavy rain, and the humidity can all harm the pool structure gradually. The shifting of the soil under the pool may cause the pool shell or the decking to crack, while the constant moisture may lead to the faster aging of the plumbing components.
Besides that, most of the pools around the area are exposed to intense sunshine for the greater part of the year. UV exposure can cause the lifter, the seals, and the fittings to get weak, thus increasing the chances that leaks occur. Knowing these local factors helps pool owners to understand that leaks are not rare and hence, the repair has to be done without delay.
Common Signs Your Pool May Be Leaking
Some pool leaks are very obvious, while others develop slowly and are not noticed for weeks. One of the most common warning signs is a significant and unexpected water level drop beyond normal evaporation. Although evaporation is always expected in the Florida climate, if it is losing over a quarter-inch of water per day, that most probably indicates that the pool has a problem.
Moreover, there are some symptoms that are always there, such as refilling pool hoses constantly, air bubbles that come from return jets, cracks that appear in the pool shell or deck, soggy spots in the yard, or even loose tiles. An increase in water bills may also be an indicator of an underground leak. It is better, and it is less costly to fix the leaks, which are found on time, because of the delay in addressing the signs.
DIY Detection vs. Professional Leak Detection
Several pool owners, before contacting a professional, attempt some basic DIY leak detection methods, for instance, the bucket test, in order to verify whether water loss is due to evaporation or leakage. Such tests are helpful in the first step; however, they are seldom able to tell the exact source of the problem.
On the other hand, professional pool technicians employ a wide variety of testing methods, such as pressure testing, dye testing, and electronic leak detection instruments, to pinpoint the leak location accurately.
Why Professional Repair Matters
If someone tries to repair a pool leak by himself without the proper knowledge and skills, it may result in incomplete repair or even additional damage to the pool. Professionals who specialize in St. Augustine pool companies have good knowledge of not only the local soil conditions but also the building codes and frequent problems of the region. Their local expertise equips them with the ability to offer you the right solutions that will last long.
Moreover, skilled personnel, through the thoroughness of the inspection, can also find the presence of other issues, thus helping to avoid future leaks in a way that they just can’t figure out. By choosing a trusted provider such as Haven Pools LLC, you can be sure that your pool and the whole property will be safe because the repair work will be done correctly the very first time.
The Cost of Ignoring Pool Leaks
A pool leak that is being ignored will gradually turn out to be very costly. A water loss will elevate utility bills, and at the same time, if the leak is not stopped, it will eat away the soil which is underneath the pool, thus, shifting, cracking, or even partial collapse may follow. The damage to the structure can go as far as the patios, decks, and landscaping that are close to the pool.
In the worst scenarios, leaking can cause damage to underground utilities, or there may be the formation of sinkholes, thus the repair cost will rise considerably. Choosing the safe and less expensive option of acting quickly is always the best decision.
Final Thoughts
It is true that leaking in pools is an issue that frequently happens to people who live in St. Augustine and have a pool at home; nevertheless, the problems do not have to be too hard for you to cope with. Through the signs of early warnings, through the knowledge of types of leaks, and with the help of professionals dealing with that, you will be able to save your pool and take pleasure in it for years. With the correct methods and the expert’s helping hand, even the most infuriating leaks can be completed in a timely manner, and thus, your pool will be kept safe, nice, and waiting for relaxation.
