Roughhousing: A Recipe For Inground Pool Leaks?

Rough housing in an inground pool can cause leaks due to several reasons. Firstly, the impact of bodies against the pool walls and floor can create cracks in the pool's shell, especially in concrete pools, which are prone to structural leaks. Secondly, loose fittings on accessories like railings, tiles, and skimmers can come undone during rough play, leading to leaks. Additionally, underground pipes may be affected by the force of bodies entering the pool with force, causing shifts in the ground and potential pipe damage. While some leaks are easy to identify and patch, others may require professional help to prevent further damage to the pool and its surrounding areas.

Roughhousing can cause structural damage to the pool

Roughhousing in an inground pool can cause leaks, and leaks can lead to structural damage. While pools are built to withstand a lot of pressure, the force of several people jumping around in the water can cause damage to the pool's structure.

The weight of the water in a pool is what gives it most of its strength. When people roughhouse in the pool, they can put extra strain on the walls and floor of the pool, causing them to shift or crack. This is especially true if they are kicking or hitting the walls. This kind of damage can lead to leaks, as water will escape through any cracks or gaps.

Leaking pools can cause a lot of problems. As well as wasting water, leaks can cause the pump motor to overheat. Leaks under the equipment pad or pool deck can cause concrete slabs to shift and crack, and low water levels can put extra strain on the pump. Underground leaks can also cause corrosion to steel pool walls and supports.

If you suspect that your pool may be leaking, there are a few things you can do to check. Firstly, look for wet areas or standing water around the outside of the pool or near the equipment pad. You can also try the bucket test: fill a bucket with water to the same level as the pool, and check back after a couple of days. If the water level in the bucket is higher, then your pool is leaking.

If you do find a leak, it's important to fix it as soon as possible. Most pool leaks are easy to fix once found, and simple repairs usually involve pool putty, waterproof silicone, a vinyl patch, or a plaster patch. However, if you're not sure how to fix the leak, it's best to call a professional.

Plumbing and fitting leaks can occur from roughhousing

Plumbing and Fitting Leaks from Roughhousing

Roughhousing in an inground pool can cause leaks in the plumbing and fittings. Plumbing and fitting leaks are among the most common types of pool leaks, and they can occur for several reasons. Here are some factors that can contribute to plumbing and fitting leaks when people are roughhousing in the pool:

• Loose or broken fittings: Rough play in the pool can cause fittings on railings, tiles, and other accessories to become loose or break, leading to leaks.
• Structural damage: Enthusiastic play can result in people accidentally hitting the pool walls or floor, causing structural damage such as cracks or fissures in the pool shell. These cracks can lead to leaks, especially if they occur around fittings like lights and jets.
• Underground plumbing: While underground plumbing leaks are rare, they can occur due to corrosion or ground movement. Roughhousing in the pool can exacerbate these issues, causing pipes to shift or crack, resulting in leaks.
• Pool skimmer issues: The pool skimmer is a common source of leaks in vinyl liner pools. Roughhousing can dislodge the skimmer or damage the pipes connected to it, leading to water loss.
• Plumbing connections: The day-to-day interaction with pool equipment can loosen plumbing connections, causing leaks. Roughhousing can accelerate this process, especially if people grab onto railings or other fittings.
• Pool pump problems: The pool pump is another component that can be susceptible to leaks if it is not properly maintained. Roughhousing can increase the strain on the pump, leading to seal or gasket failures, resulting in water escaping.

To prevent leaks caused by roughhousing, it is important to encourage safe and responsible use of the pool. Regular maintenance and inspection of the pool's plumbing, fittings, and equipment are also crucial to identify and address potential issues before they lead to leaks.

Pool leaks can cause a high water bill

Pool leaks can be a major contributor to high water bills. A leak can cause a household to waste 180 gallons of water per week, which amounts to almost 9,500 gallons of water per year. This can lead to a significant increase in water bills, especially if the leak is not addressed promptly.

There are several signs that may indicate a pool leak and a potential increase in your water bill. One of the most obvious signs is a noticeable drop in the water level of your pool. If you find yourself adding more than a quarter inch of water per day or more than two inches of water per week, it is likely that you have a leak.

Other signs of a pool leak include wet spots in your yard, unusually high water bills, cracks in your pool surface or pool deck, loose or shifting pool tiles, and algae growth in the pool. If you suspect a leak, it is important to contact a professional leak detection company to identify and repair the issue as soon as possible.

Pool leaks can occur due to various issues such as loose or broken fittings, structural damage, underground leaks, broken pipes, or issues with the main drain. It is important to regularly inspect your pool for any signs of damage and to address any leaks promptly to prevent water waste and reduce the impact on your water bill.

By identifying and repairing pool leaks in a timely manner, you can help maintain the structural integrity of your pool and minimize the impact on your water bill.

Underground leaks can be difficult to find

While rough housing in an inground pool may not directly cause a leak, it could potentially exacerbate an existing one. Regular wear and tear, as well as extreme weather conditions, can cause leaks in your pool over time. Therefore, it is important to be vigilant and address any leaks as soon as they are identified.

Underground leaks can be challenging to locate and often require expert assistance. They can be caused by corrosion or movements in the ground, which can damage underground plumbing or even puncture the pool floor. Here are some steps to help you identify and address underground leaks:

• Initial Assessment: Before assuming that you have an underground leak, it is important to conduct a thorough inspection of your pool and its equipment. Check for any obvious leaks, wet spots, or puddles around the pool, including the equipment pad and the ground above the pool plumbing. Don't forget to also check the water level in your pool to identify any unusual drops.
• Rule Out Evaporation: It is crucial to determine whether the water loss is due to evaporation or a potential leak. You can do this by performing the bucket test or the ink test. The bucket test involves placing a bucket of water in your pool, marking the water levels, and comparing the levels after 24 hours. If the pool water level has decreased more than the bucket level, you likely have a leak.
• Dye Test: Once you've confirmed a leak, you can use a leak detection dye to pinpoint its exact location. Turn off the pump and any water features to keep the water as still as possible. Apply the dye near the suspected leak area, and if there is a leak, you will see the dye move towards the exact location.
• Advanced Leak Detection: If you are unable to locate the leak or need further assistance, it is best to contact a professional leak detection company. They have specialized equipment, such as sonar devices, to accurately identify underground leaks.
• Repair and Restoration: After locating the leak, it is important to repair it promptly. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to consult a professional for guidance on the best repair options. They can also help restore your pool to its original condition, ensuring that your pool is safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Pool leaks can cause damage to the surrounding area

• Soil Erosion and Structural Damage: Leaking water can erode the soil around the pool, creating soft, muddy patches and causing structural damage to the pool's foundation and decking. This can lead to a dangerous situation, such as a sinkhole, if left unaddressed.
• Damage to Surrounding Structures: Water escaping from the pool can accumulate and damage nearby structures, including the pool owner's home or a neighbour's property. This can result in costly repairs and even compromise the stability of nearby buildings.
• Increased Water Bills: Pool leaks can lead to significant water loss, resulting in higher water bills for the pool owner. This is especially true for auto-filling pools, where the leak may not be immediately noticeable as the water level remains constant.
• Chlorine Damage: Chlorinated water leaking from the pool can kill grass and other vegetation in the surrounding area, leaving brown patches and affecting the overall aesthetics of the yard.
• Underground Plumbing Issues: Leaks can occur in underground plumbing lines, which can be challenging to locate and repair. Broken pipes or corrosion in these lines can saturate the ground and cause water to seep into the pool or surrounding areas.
• Mechanical and Electrical Problems: Pool leaks can lead to mechanical and electrical issues, such as pump damage or increased energy consumption. This, in turn, can result in higher maintenance costs and potential safety hazards.
• Algae Growth: Treated water escaping from the pool can lead to algae growth, both within the pool and in the surrounding area. This can be unsightly and require additional maintenance to address.
• Foundation Issues: In severe cases, pool leaks can affect the foundation of the pool owner's home or nearby structures. This can lead to costly repairs and even compromise the safety of the building.
• Concrete Damage: For concrete pools, leaks can cause the concrete to become saturated, stripping away the cement and leaving only sand and gravel. This reduces the strength of the concrete and can lead to structural failures.
• Vinyl Liner Pools: Leaks in vinyl liner pools can cause the liner to pull away from the wall, requiring prompt repair to prevent further damage.

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