A pool is said to be leaking if it loses more water than regular evaporation. If you suspect or are sure that your pool is leaking, the next step is to identify the source of the leak. While losing pool water may not seem like a big deal, it can dramatically affect water efficiency in your home. Also, if the leak is located around the pool's foundation, it can cause the soil to shift. The swimming pool may settle as a result, and this will lead to costly repairs. Thus, check out the following leading causes of pool leaks and how to fix them.

Cracks on the Pool Floor

Cracks on the pool floor may occur due to poor construction of the structure. Poor quality materials and failure to reinforce the concrete floor can lead to cracks, which allow water to seep from the pool into the ground. Cracks can also occur due to earthquakes. Luckily, pool cracks are easy to fix. However, if the soil on which the structure sits has settled, you may need to reinforce the entire foundation. 

Invasive Tree Roots

Tree roots can grow vertically into your swimming pool and disturb the structure. As they push against it, they can cause cracks that begin to leak over time. If you have any large trees around your swimming pool, they may be the main cause of the leak. In addition to fixing the cracks, you have to eliminate the invasive roots to prevent future damage. Don't just cut the roots as they will grow back and become a problem. Instead, install a barrier between them and your pool.

Old and Worn Pool Pump Components

Pool pumps facilitate the flow of water in the pool and enable the circulation of chemicals. As a pool pump ages or suffers wear, it can develop vulnerabilities that encourage leaks. For example, the O-ring and shaft seals that are meant to prevent leaks may wear, and this allows water to seep through. Pool pump leaks may start as just a drip, but they can get worse over time. Fix this problem by replacing the worn pump and pump components.

Improper Winterization

Proper winterization is key to maintaining a swimming pool. It prevents water from freezing inside the pool and pool plumbing. Without proper winterization, the water freezes and expands, and causes damage to pool components. If you have plumbing pipes installed inside the walls of the pool, they can burst due to the pressure from frozen water as well. Unfortunately, you won't notice leaks until after the winter season. Thus, follow proper winterization procedures to prevent leaks.

Never attempt repairs on your own as you could cause further damage to equipment. Contact a pool contractor like those at All-American Pools for professional repairs and maintenance!