When things go wrong in your swimming pool it can seem like emptying it is the logical thing to do in order to conduct repairs.
However this is exactly the wrong thing to do!
When a swimming pool is full of water the concrete tank is stable. However, by draining it several things can happen that will de-stabilise the structural integrity of the tank and this can lead to further problems.
Tiles can fracture to leave razor sharp edges, creating a severe health and safety risk
There are several considerations to take into account when you drain your swimming pool:
Cost of water disposal
Draining the pool is costly as the water needs to be disposed of responsibly. It can’t be emptied into the nearest storm drain! Pumping a swimming pool dry is an expensive exercise and can require a permit to dispose of the water.
Weight
Water in the swimming pool has a weight that pushes down on the swimming pool tank. If the surrounding water table is high and the water removed from the pool, you could end up with your swimming pool breaking free to float like a boat. This will result in your pool breaking itself apart.
Drying Out
If a pool is emptied the tiles and grout will dry out. This can result in the tile adhesive shrinking which can lead to the tiles de-bonding.
Temperature
If a pool is drained it will be subject to temperature change. This will affect the tile sizes as they will grow larger when warm and shrink when cold. This can cause the tiles to de-bond.
Loss of revenue
When a swimming pool is drained it cannot earn any revenue. This can result in your customers going elsewhere to swim, and they may not come back. By keeping your pool full of water it can remain in use and you can retain your customer loyalty.
Re-filling
Refilling an empty pool must be done carefully. The re-introduction of water will rehydrate the grout and adhesive, making it expand. This can cause tiles to de-bond. The temperature will initially be cold as the water is put back in. This must be heated slowly to prevent tiles expanding too quickly and becoming de-bonded. The weight of water going back into the pool will put pressure on the tank that may cause movement. This can introduce cracks.
Tiles can de-bond in large numbers if you drain your swimming pool
In summary it is not a good idea to empty your swimming pool as it may introduce further problems.
However, if you do need your swimming pool repaired then Commercial & Specialised Diving can help. Their team of skilled underwater swimming pool repair technicians can do everything from replacing a single mosaic tile, re-grout an entire swimming pool, tile walls and replace grilles.
All of this work can be done without draining your swimming pool and at a time to suit you so you do not have to shut your pool. This ensures minimal disruption to you customers to maintain your customer loyalty.
Commercial& Specialised Diving are swimming pool repair experts. Contact our friendly technicians to find out more: 01202 580007 or info@specialised-diving.co.uk.