3 Signs It Is Time To Replace Your Old Fiberglass In-Ground Swimming Pool

If you currently have an old fiberglass in-ground swimming pool in your backyard, you may start to wonder whether or not you should have a new one installed. If so, look for the following signs that it may be time to have your old swimming pool replaced with a new one.

Cracks in the Walls or Floor

While durable, fiberglass is a thinner material than concrete or the plaster materials from which other swimming pools are made. Over time, the constant pressure from the water inside of the pool and the ground surrounding it can become too much for the material.

As the fiberglass ages, cracks can start to develop in the walls or floor. While they start out being tiny cracks resembling spider webs, they can eventually widen into gaps through which water can escape and soil can contaminate the water in your pool. Eventually, the sides or floor could shatter, creating a veritable flood in your yard.

If you have noticed one or two cracks in your pool, you may be able to get away with having a contractor patch them. However, if there are multiple small cracks, or the cracks have turned into gaps, you may want to discuss the possibility of replacing your pool.

Bulges in the Walls

Even if you do not see any cracks in the walls and floor of your pool, look carefully for any areas where the fiberglass is bulging in the walls. As the walls become weaker with age, they may not have the rigidity required to hold back the soil on the outside of your in-ground pool.

As the walls weaken and the soil around your pool becomes and stays saturated with water, the heavier soil will push in on the exterior. Eventually, the fiberglass will bow, causing bulges to appear.

As the pressure increases, these bulges will eventually cause a break in the fiberglass, causing the water to rush out of the pool and the soil to enter. The presence of the bulges should be an indicator that you need to replace your swimming pool before the damage becomes too great.

Leaks or Pools of Water Around the Pool's Exterior

Another sign that your fiberglass swimming pool needs replacing is the presence of leaks or pools of water around the pool's exterior. If you do not see any signs of cracking or bulging, these leaks may be caused by the settling and separation of the pool's pipes.

As your pool is used, water splashes on the ground around it, softening the soil. As the soil softens, the pool can start to shift and settle, making the attached plumbing shift as well. 

After years of shifting and settling, the pipes can become dislodged either from the pool, each other, or the water pump. If the pipes shift extensively along with the pool, it may become difficult to realign them without major renovations of the pool and surrounding area. It may actually be easier to replace not only the pool but also the pipes, which may have become broken.

However, while you may suspect that your leaking pool is caused by shifted plumbing, there could be other causes. If you are unable to determine the source yourself, have a swimming pool contractor inspect the pool to find the exact source of the leaking water.

If you notice any of the above signs in and around your old fiberglass swimming pool, it may be time to have it replaced. Contact a contractor at a company like Crystal Blue Pools to have them inspect your pool and discuss your options for replacing either part or all of your swimming pool.