If something has gone wrong with your pool, you might think that it’s the end of the world. But truthfully, something’s bound to go wrong with your pool at some point or another and it’s not usually anything to be that concerned about. If something major goes wrong with your pool, you will probably have to call in a professional. But there are also many smaller repairs that often need to be done, and that can be done by the pool owner. But, before you get to work on any of these repairs, you first need to know what type of pool you have, and what tools you’re going to need for the job.
The most common problems associated with concrete and gunite pools are problems with their plaster, which is known for popping up in some areas, chipping, cracking, and wearing to the point where the stone underneath the plaster shows through. These types of problems aren’t only common, but they’re very easy to fix on your own and there are even many plaster pool repair kits that will give you everything you need, along with how-to instructions.
Fiberglass pools are also known for cracking, but they tend to blister and bubble too. These repairs are also very easy, with many DIY kits available however, these do have a disadvantage. That is the fact that it’s nearly impossible to ever match the color of the fiberglass exactly, and so the area of repair will always be evident. This is avoidable, if you hire a professional or if you resurface your entire pool. That’s extremely costly and time-consuming however, and most pool owners that repair their own fiberglass pools aren’t bothered by it enough to go to the expense.
Vinyl pools and those with a vinyl liner are the easiest to fix on your own. The most common repair that’s required with these pools is fixing a crack or a leak. There are many different types of DIY kits available to make these repairs and some you can even fix under water, meaning you don’t have to drain the pool before making the repair. However, most professionals will tell you that while it’s fine to do this repair yourself, it’s also best to drain the pool at least to the point below the repair, so that the patch can dry completely, and properly.
These are the most common minor repairs that are known to be needed for pools. In order to avoid bigger, more costly repairs, always make sure that you maintain your pool regularly and that you take care of it properly. While it may seem like a chore and a minor cost at the time, you’ll certainly be saving yourself in the long run!
Of course, the alternative to do it yourself fixes is to bring in a reputable swimming pool professional to make sure the job is done properly. Professionals are called in often at all stages of a repair, either before, or sometimes during a do it yourself repair that was too big for a homeowner to handle. Of course there are also the calls after the fact to redo work that may have been handled by a professional in the first place. Evaluate your options, and when in doubt, consult with your local pool professional. They can help offer guidance in the right direction for you.