Pool Cracks: Normal or Bad?

With proper maintenance, swimming pools are immensely strong and can last for several years. Pool cracks can usually be found on the surface of the pool in the plaster and generally do not run through the entire pool. These cracks can be normal or unusual, but can you tell if the pool itself is in danger of leaking? Keep reading to learn how to manage pool cracks. 

Shrinkage cracks are normal and shallow, typically found on the surface. They usually develop after the curing process and can be easily repaired. Structural cracks, however, run through the entire pool and can be a sign that the pool is leaking or will soon leak. 

There are three main reasons for pool cracks. They include: 

Faulty Design or Structure
Structural cracks are serious and should not be overlooked. They are usually evident in uneven pools, which directly result from improper engineering. If a pool is incorrectly created, the likelihood of a crack increases tenfold. Retaining walls, water weight, concrete or tile areas, and more are all susceptible to failure if the engineering is not up to par. 

Soil Testing
One of the first flaws of pool engineering coincides with structural issues such as loose soil, soil movement, earthquakes, clay, and more. Testing the soil for soil-bearing capacity and stability prior to pool installation is imperative to avoid future cracks. 

Poor Craftsmanship
Following a blueprint is essential; otherwise, a pool will inevitably crack. Adding too much water, failing to tie rebar correctly, dry concrete, taking shortcuts, etc., can all cause immense cracking and bigger issues down the road. 

Pool owners concerned about any type of crack within the structure should consider scheduling an inspection with a qualified pool contractor. If further work is needed, a pool inspector can refer a civil engineer, a structural engineer, or a geotechnical engineer. 

Generally, pools hold up well through the years. The cause of many cracks can be mysterious to homeowners, but pool specialists can identify the culprit before suggesting a solution. While some cracks are normal, pool owners should check with a maintenance specialist to ensure the cracks do not cause permanent damage. 

Are you in need of a pool renovation? Contact Pound Pool Plastering today to learn more about our pool resurfacing options. 

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/

Correctly Draining Pool Water

 

Swimming pools are typically enjoyed by families across the country during the summer season. Pool owners are fully aware of the maintenance required to upkeep these tiny bodies of water, such as adding chemicals, more water, or draining the pool. 

Most municipal cities do not allow pool water to be drained into the city’s stormwater system. This includes streets, curbs, catch basins, ditches, gutters, channels, and storm drains. The purpose of the storm drains is to protect against flooding by swiftly clearing torrential rainwater from the street. 

Pool water, on the other hand, is nothing like rainwater. It contains elevated levels of chemicals such as chlorine, salt, chloramines, and other pollutants that can potentially ruin the local water quality. If pool water gets into the stormwater system, it can pose an environmental and public safety threat.

When it is time to drain your pool, you have several options: 

·         Backyard: If you choose to drain your pool in your yard, be mindful of your neighbors’ property and proximity to storm drains. Do some research and learn which plants can’t survive pool water being released in their environment. To avoid flooding, drain your pool in small intervals.

·         Sewer: you can drain your pool water into your home’s main sanitary sewer.

·         Contractor: pool water that has notable contaminants such as algae or other issues should be pumped by a licensed contractor rather than released into the environment.

To find your sewer line cleanout, look for a small circular cap on a pipe with a raised square or mushroom-shaped cone. This line should be either sticking out of your house or from the ground, covering the cleanout. You can also scan the premises for a concrete or metal cover marked “SEWER,” “C.O.,” or “S.” The cleanouts are usually located under these covers.

If you live in a city or municipality, it is usually a good idea to contact them and see what their policy is on pool drainage. Some will require specific rules about when, how, and where to drain your pool. Sometimes, cities require pool water to be chlorine neutral before draining.

Once you properly dispose of your pool water, you can rest assured you have helped preserve the wildlife and water quality in the area.  

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

 

Best Inground Pool Heaters of 2022

As the weather cools and you want to extend the use of your pool, a heater to warm the water is a must. There are a few factors to consider when purchasing an inground pool heater: the size, the environment you live in, how quickly you expect it to heat, and your preference for energy use.

 

You can heat your pool in many ways, from electric, solar, and natural gas. Depending on where you live and how assessable your utilities may be will further determine which option is best for you. For example, if you live in a northern region with cold winters, you’ll likely want to bypass the solar heater and choose gas or electric, which will heat faster and works better in frigid weather. Those in warmer, sunnier climates would benefit by using solar heaters.

 

Whichever you decide, we list the pros and cons for each type of heater and name a couple of the best-selling products under each category.  

 

Gas Powered

Gas-powered pool heaters are powerful and can heat your water up to 20 to 30 degrees relatively quickly. The cost is usually lower compared to solar and electric heaters. Gas heaters require a bit more maintenance and cleaning, which can be costly in terms of time spent cleaning instead of enjoying the pool itself. Also, gas is the most expensive, so over time, any money you save up front will be long gone.

 

-Hayward W3H150FDN Universal H-Series 150,000 BTU Natural Gas Pool and Spa Heater

-Pentair MasterTemp 125 Low NOx Pool Heater

 

 

Solar Powered

Solar-powered pool heaters are often considered one of the best options because they do not require electricity and are cleaner to run. They tend to be more expensive upfront but will save in utilities cost down the line. A solar heater would be more sufficient in temperate regions, as they require more time to heat up.

 

-Smart Pool S601 Inground Pool Solar Heating System

-Fafco 10028 Universal 24ft x 3.75in Solar Panel Heating Kit

 

Electric Pool Heaters 

Electric heaters are versatile and the most affordable. They are cheaper than gas because it runs on electricity rather than fuel, which is less expensive. Electric heaters are easier to install because they don’t depend on gas lines. There are two types of electric pool heaters, immersion and circulation heaters. Immersion heaters are installed in the pool water and are typically used for smaller, more shallow pools. The circulation heater, best for larger pools, uses a fan to circulate water through the heating element, which is based outside of the pool.  

 

- FibroPool FH055 Swimming Pool Heater Pump

- Ecosmart US SMART POOL Tankless Pool Heater

- Hayward W3HP50HA2 HeatPro Heat Pump

 

 

Pound Pool Plastering is fully licensed and insured, call today for small or large pool renovations!

 

 

 

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/