When the steel is fabricated and installed the pool really starts to take shape. Any water features or other high end elements you have chosen will be framed at this stage, along with any plumbing fixtures. The skimmer and main drains are also put in at this stage. This is also when the choice of surface for your pool gets decided – you may choose to have it covered with tile, Diamond Bright, gunite or plaster.
One common issue is high water pressure in the filtration system. Often this is caused by a dirty filter or a clogged pump.
During the summer, pool filters can get filled with suntan oil, bits of palm frond and plain old dirt. These can clog the filter, causing it to slow down or stop working altogether. The good news is that a little TLC during the fall and winter can prevent this from happening.
Finishing
Inspect the Filter Cartridge
A dirty or damaged filter can significantly reduce the amount of water that your pool can hold. A good way to tell if your filter is wearing out is by inspecting the pressure gauge. The ideal pool filter pressure is 3-5 PSI, but the exact number can vary depending on the type of filter.
In commercial pools, a shell construction method is common which includes the use of shuttered walls with a poured floor in between; both thickness and reinforcing being dictated by design. In the domestic market, a more affordable alternative uses cavity block walls with a poured floor in between; again both thickness and reinforcing being dictated for by design.
Clean the Laterals
Once the backwash cycle is complete, make sure you drain the tank, refill and test your water. This is also a great time to change out your filter sand. Most sand filters last about 5-7 years before they wear out, and changing the sand helps to ensure that your system will continue to work properly.
Most of the cost associated with a pool repair project comes from labor costs. Your local professional can provide you with an estimate and a timeline for the repair. The type of repair and the extent of the damage are key factors that impact the total price.
If the pool pump is loud, but there is no air in the system, then it’s probably an electrical problem with the motor. This is a serious and potentially dangerous problem that requires a professional to resolve.
Once the hole has been dug, stakes are driven to mark transition points between the shallow and deep ends of your pool. This will enable the team to “string” the bottom of your pool later for final dimensions. Note that the excavated depth is always 2" deeper than the manufacturer's layout specifications.
Luckily, most laterals unscrew, making them easy to remove from the tank for cleaning and inspection. After removing them, soak them in a mixture of water and muriatic acid to clean out any dirt impacted inside them. They are then ready to be re-installed.
If you notice a lot of sand blowing out of the bottom of your filter after a backwash, there may be a broken lateral or diffuser in the unit. These plastic parts, which have small slits to keep out the sand grains, are located at the bottom of the unit and can leak sand into the pool if cracked.
Gunite or shotcrete is a process that uses a high-pressure hose to spray concrete in place. It is a fascinating and labor intensive process that produces a strong and durable concrete shell. It is a similar process to that used when constructing pools using formworks, but it allows for the construction of the whole shell in one piece with no gap between walls and floors.
One of the most common problems that can occur with a swimming pool is air infiltration. This occurs when the suction system pulls air instead of water. This can happen at the skimmer, pump or unions (the connections between the hoses). Air is most often pulled into the system at the skimmer, but it can also enter the system at the sand or cartridge filters.
Once the gunite or concrete has been poured, many local governments will perform an inspection at this point. This will ensure that the steel and plumbing has been properly installed and is in good working order. After the pool is inspected it is time to fill it! You can either choose to do this yourself with a hose connected to your water spout or we can handle it for you. Either way, you will want to ensure that your pool is fully refilled and double checked that everything works as it should be.
Many homeowners try to do their own pool repairs, but the reality is that it’s generally best left to the professionals. Not only can a professional help reduce repair costs, they will also ensure the work is done correctly to prevent further damage.
Why Pool Repair Is Best Left to the Professionals
A leaking union can lead to water loss and a variety of other problems. You’ll also want to check your tank for a belly band leak, which is another source of air in the system and can be very difficult to find and repair.
Inground pool costs differ depending on the pool's material as well as its shape and size. The total cost of an inground pool ranges from $28,000 to $55,000, or about $50 to $125 per square foot. That's an average cost of $35,000.
It's recommended having a depth fewer than six feet to meet most pool needs. For a family of six to eight people, an 18 foot by 36-foot pool is recommended. This should be sufficient to avoid crowding and allow for the playing of games. Rectangle shaped pools look best for this size.
Pebble finishes, combined with modified cement, last 15+ years. This is the most durable cement based pool finish. Polished marble finishes are an upgrade to standard marble finishes since the reactive cream layer is polished off the pool finish.
Rectangular pools with perfect 90-degree corners have been around for decades. They are ideal for swimming laps or engaging in other types of water exercise. The familiar shape conveys a sense of formality, as well as a sleek, modern feel. For greater design options, rectangles can be modified.
The annual cost to own a pool is $3,000 to $5,000, which includes maintenance, repairs, electricity, and water. The cost to open or close a pool ranges from $300 to $500 on average. Maintenance pricing depends on the size and type of pool you have, and if you upkeep regular maintenance.