Understanding When and Why Your Fiberglass Pool Might Need Repair or Renovation

If you're considering the installation of a fiberglass pool or already have one, it's crucial to understand that, like concrete pools, these too require maintenance, repairs, and eventual renovation. Contrary to popular belief, fiberglass pools aren't a set-and-forget option. They may need resurfacing, which isn't a task you can tackle alone.

Choosing between a fiberglass or concrete pool isn't a straightforward decision. You'll need to weigh your priorities and consider factors such as cost, maintenance, and the desired lifespan of your pool. Plus, remember while the person who installed your concrete pool might offer retile and plaster services, the one who installed your fiberglass pool might not provide gelcoating services or structural crack repair.

Signs of Fiberglass Pool Damage

When it comes to the preservation of your pool, early detection of damage can make the difference between an easy, cost-effective fix and a costly, time-consuming renovation. As the owner of a fiberglass pool, you ought to be vigilant on any signs of damage. 

Cracks in the Fiberglass Shell

Keep a close eye on the fiberglass shell of your pool. If you notice any cracks or chips, take note – even minor damage can eventually become a big problem. Particularly, hairline cracks are a common issue. These occur when the gel coat of your pool deteriorates, leading your pool's shell to lose its ability to flex under pressure.

Pressure imbalances can cause visible damage like cracks and bulges that will force you to drain your pool to repair them. Big cracks and bulges, in particular, will need professional attention.

Remember, patching is not a lasting solution for cracks and bulges. This is where a professional steps in after cutting out the bulge, fills it with polyurethane foam, and finishes it with a coating of fiberglass.

Fading or Discolouration of the Surface

Another sign of potential damage is fading or discoloration of the pool surface. This usually suggests that the gel coat is wearing thin, making the pool more susceptible to cracks or leaks.

Sometimes, you might choose options like a fiberglass pool resurfacing for the added protection it offers. This process serves as a general upgrade to your pool, extending its lifespan by at least a decade.

Leaks in the Pool Structure

Last but certainly not least, leaks are a very telltale sign of fiberglass pool damage. Of course, identifying leaks in a pool can be challenging without professional knowledge and equipment. But, a sudden spike in your water bills or the need to constantly top up the pool water could hint at a possible leak.

When you spot any of these signs, it’s time to take action. Whether you opt for the DIY route or seek professional help, proper maintenance and early intervention will help you prevent serious damage to your fiberglass pool, saving time, money and the lifespan of your pool in the long run.

Common Causes of Fiberglass Pool Damage

Earlier, we established the importance of early detection of damage in fiberglass pools. Still wondering why your well-constructed fiberglass pool might need repair or renovation? Let's explore common causes to arm you with the knowledge for timely intervention.

Improper Installation

Even the best quality fiberglass pools aren't immune to faulty installation. It's one of the major reasons for the degradation of the pool over time. Here's what can happen:

• Fissures in the gel-coat surface: These can be caused by improper handling during installation and, if not addressed instantly, may spread and lead to leaks.
• Pressure imbalances: These can lead to significant cracks or bulges, forcing the pool to be drained for repair.

Use of Harsh Chemicals

Maintaining the ideal chemistry of your pool water is crucial. Mismanagement or the use of harsh chemicals can have a considerable impact - mainly, it can lead to the wearing down of the gel coat.

• Dealing with the gel coat wear: If the gel coat wears down, the pool will need to be refinished. Harsh chemicals not intended for fiberglass pools can expedite this process.

Natural Wear and Tear

No matter how well built or professionally curated your fiberglass pool may be, it will eventually require repair or renovation. Natural wear and tear lead to damage over time. Simple and resolvable issues can also lead to severe damage if ignored. In the case of fiberglass pools, some simple issues that need your attention are:

• Surface Fade and Discolouration: Though only a cosmetic concern, surface fade can indicate general wearing down of your fiberglass pool.
• Development of Spider Cracks: Over time, your pool can develop spider cracks, hard to spot with the pool filled, but undeniably damaging. These hairline cracks tend to occur on the gel coat surface layer and are primarily caused by pressure exceeding the gel coat's flexibility.

Unfortunately, even the best maintained, high-quality fiberglass pools are not exempt from these issues. 

Repairing Fiberglass Pools

Patching Fiberglass Cracks

A common myth is that fiberglass pools don't crack - but they can, just like any other pool. The severity of the crack might not force you to drain the water but fixing it early enough curbs worsening. Attempting to patch significant cracks and bulges can be a futile endeavour, as this isn't a long-term solution. Patching is a quick fix involving placing plywood material in the damaged area and filling the bulge with polyurethane foam before coating it with fiberglass. This repair method is not known for its durability and can fall apart before long. So as a rule of thumb, if the crack is significant, hire a professional.

Resurfacing the Fiberglass Shell

Have you noticed chips or cracks on the surface of your fiberglass pool? No worries, your pool might need resurfacing and it's not as daunting as it sounds. Fiberglass pool resurfacing involves addressing these faults in the fiberglass coating that shelter the concrete shell of your pool. When high-quality materials are used in the original pool setup, you don’t need full resurfacing for several decades. Nonetheless, it's worth acknowledging that not every fiberglass pool accomplishes this level of quality, especially if lower-grade materials were used.

Fixing Leaks in the Pool Structure

Like pressure imbalances, tiny leaks might seem negligible but can inflict severe damage to your pool if unaddressed. Over time, these leaks can lead to cracks and bulges which will push you to drain the pool to help effective repair. With the help of a professional, you can locate and patch these leaks, ensuring the longevity of your pool. But, recurring faults might indicate a deeper issue that patching cannot resolve. In such a case, a full refurbishment of the pool might be in order.

Renovating a Fiberglass Pool

There are instances when your much-loved fiberglass pool begins to reveal signs of aging, manifesting in various forms such as fading surfaces, spider cracks, or other technical glitches. While proactive maintenance can forestall these issues to an extent, periodic renovations become a necessity to extend the pool's lifespan. Understanding when and why might a fiberglass pool need repair or renovation can consistently save you time, money, and stress.

Upgrading Pool Equipment

Keeping up with the latest advancements in pool technology not only leads to more effective, energy-efficient usage but also minimizes the recurrence of frequent repair needs. Be it automated cleaners that save manual effort or energy-efficient heaters that reduce your power bills, integrating advanced equipment into your pool system can elevate the swimming experience while also increasing the pool's longevity.

Also, contemporary filtration systems are designed to perform optimally even at lower speeds, thereby ensuring a clean pool with significantly reduced electricity consumption. With LED pool lights, the overall look of your pool can be enhanced while consuming less energy than traditional lighting methods.

But, upgrading pool equipment needs to be executed by professionals for a seamless integration into your existing system. The potential cost savings and enhanced performance that advanced pool equipment offers make this a worthwhile renovation.

Enhancing Aesthetics with New Finishes

Sometimes, the motivation for renovations isn't exclusively about structural integrity or functionality, but about upgrading the aesthetic appeal of your pool. Over time, wear and tear on the pool surface can lead to a dull, unattractive look. A fresh gel coat application not only revamps the appearance but also contributes to the pool's durability.

For instance, high-quality top gel coats are employed by renovation specialists after repairing any osmosis cracks or other issues. They not only breathe new life into your aging pool but also significantly bolster the pool's lifespan – usually up to 7-13 years.

Also, fiberglass pool resurfacing can be tailored to fit individual design preferences. A new gel coat finish could come in a variety of hues from traditional blues to mood-inspired shades like moss green, adding an element of personalisation to your backyard oasis.

Done correctly, resurfacing a fiberglass pool adds style, provides protection for at least a decade, and delivers an enhanced swimming experience. Though materials for this renovation are readily available, it's suggested you seek professional help unless proficient in the task to avoid material wastage or repetition of the entire process.

Enhance and Protect Your Pool with Professional Care from People for Pools

If you've noticed that your aging fiberglass pool could use some updates, there are a variety of issues to address, from faded surfaces to spider cracks, which could reduce the longevity of your pool if ignored. Updating your pool equipment with the latest technology enhances not only modernity but also efficiency and cost savings. Moreover, a fresh gel coat finish can revitalize your pool's appearance and increase its durability. Remember, resurfacing is not a task for DIY; professional work is crucial for a successful outcome and long-term enjoyment. People for Pools can install, repair, and service pools in the Greater Toronto area, ensuring that minor issues don't escalate into major problems. Keep your pool in top condition by seeking professional assistance.