You may need a repair if your pool isn’t functioning properly. While it’s tempting to try and fix the problem on your own, it’s better to call in a professional if you don’t have experience with pool repairs.

Signs you need a pool repair St Louis, MO, include cracked tiles, hollow spots, broken lights, and algae growth. These problems need to be addressed as soon as possible before they become worse.

Cracked Tiles

If you notice a lot of cracked tiles in your pool, it could be a sign that the tile is deteriorating. Usually, this is caused by dirt and moisture affecting the material.

The best thing to do is address the crack as soon as possible. Otherwise, it will get worse and may eventually lead to more serious problems down the road.

There are some small and easy ways to fix cracks in your pool’s tile that can save you money. However, if the crack is larger than you can repair, it might be better to call a pro for help.

In addition to cracks, tiles deteriorate more quickly when exposed to water, extreme temperatures, and abrasion. This is why it’s important to install quality tiles.

Hollow Spots

Hollow spots can be a sign that your pool needs some repair work. They can be caused by some things, including crazing, delamination, or the plaster may become loose.

Crazing is a fairly common problem and requires only a minor repair. However, if a large section of your pool plaster is affected by crazing, it must be replaced.

Delamination is another possible problem where the bonding slurry must properly adhere to the concrete shell. This can happen for various reasons and is generally more likely to occur when the concrete has been exposed to harsh elements or where there is an existing grease, oil, or dirt layer on the shell.

If you do have delamination or crack, then it is best to apply a plaster repair kit. Mix the plaster to a slightly wet consistency than damp sand and not so thick that it is difficult to spread. Use a wet grouting sponge to moisten the perimeter of the cracked area lightly. Then, using a trowel and the edge of the trowel, apply the pool plaster to the crack to remove any air bubbles.

Broken Lights

While many pool owners try to do some maintenance themselves, there are some repairs that professional services should only do. Neglecting these essential fixes can cause problems that require extensive repairs and even pose a safety risk to those who use the pool.

Broken lights are a sign that you need a pool repair, as they can make your swimming pool look less attractive and leave it vulnerable to potential accidents. If you see one of these signs, be sure to get the repair completed right away.

If the light leaks, water is likely running through the conduit it runs in. You can find this conduit in the upper back of your light niche on a concrete pool and around the light ring on a vinyl pool.

Drain the pool to fix the light and replace the bulb or fixture. This is a complex job that needs to be done by a qualified electrician or pool repair expert.

Algae

Algae is one of the most common swimming pool problems. The problem typically starts with a lack of chlorine or improper maintenance.

Green algae are the most common and spread quickly, clouding the water. It also causes green slime on the surfaces of your pool.

Mustard algae (or ‘Yellow Algae’) is much harder to eliminate and can appear as specks of yellow pollen on the pool walls or in small crevices. It can also clog up your filter and prevent it from functioning properly.

Most small blooms of pool algae can be easily treated with a dose of granular chlorine or pool algaecide followed by brushing. More serious algae growth over larger areas or suspended in the water will require a strong dose of chlorine shock.