by CFBIBlog | Nov 27, 2023 | CFBI Blog
The U.S. Fire Administration estimates that there were 116,500 non-residential building fires in the U.S. in 2021. They resulted in $3.7 billion in direct property damage. These staggering figures are proof that fire is one of the most devastating forces that can affect a commercial building.
What’s even more unfortunate is that many fires can be prevented and mitigated. It only takes regular inspections to identify potential fire hazards. These are any conditions or materials that cause a fire or make it spread faster.
With that in mind, this brief safety guide aims to help you identify potential hazards in your building and protect your investment. We’ll explore what inspectors look for and highlight tips for addressing any issues so the occupants are safe. Keep reading to learn more.
Flammable Materials
One of the most obvious sources of fire hazards is the presence of flammable and combustible materials. These include paper, cardboard, wood, fabrics, plastics, oils, paints, solvents, and gases. Such materials can easily ignite and spread flames if stored improperly.
Reducing the risk from flammable materials starts with proper storage. Design an area for this that’s far from sources of heat and electricals. Use the right containers and labels for easy identification. Ensure that you dispose of any hazardous materials regularly as well.
Obstructed Emergency Access
Firefighters need quick access to water connections in an emergency. However, things like landscaping, dumpsters, and business equipment get in the way. They block the very fire department connections (FDCs) and valves needed to fight a fire.
This seemingly small oversight is a violation with serious consequences. For starters, blocked access slows down emergency response. The extra minutes allow fires to rage out of control. There is also an increased risk of injury as firefighters work to move heavy obstacles.
Ensure that outdoor areas near FDCs and valves are always clear. The interior valves, sprinkler system controls, and extinguishers should also be easy to access. Schedule a regular property inspection to catch and solve any issues that may hinder access.
Electrical Hazards
Faulty electrical systems are among the leading causes of fire. They are also among the most common dangers found during building inspections. Even the smallest issues can be incredibly dangerous if overlooked.
Inspectors look for specific dangers like damaged insulation, overloaded circuits, and loose wires. They also check for water leaks near electronics and too many extension cords. Any signs of overheating, like melted plastic or sparks, further raise red flags.
You’ll need a professional electrician to fix any issues. Regular inspections also play a vital role in preventing electrical hazards and keeping your property safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late - stay on top of electrical safety to protect your property and people.
Improper Fire Protection
Having fire extinguishers, alarms, and suppression systems is not enough. They only provide a false sense of security if they aren’t maintained properly, hence why many property owners fail inspections. Outdated extinguishers, deactivated alarms, and blocked sprinkler systems are useless.
Fire extinguishers must be recharged annually, and gauge pressures must be in optimal ranges. Smoke detectors should be clean and in working order rather than disabled with dust or grease residue. Alarms must have adequate volume to notify everyone in the building in case of a fire.
As for the suppression systems, they should have the last inspection tags. Also, ensure that the valves are open and caps intact. The sprinkler heads need to have ample clearance underneath them. This ensures that water flows freely to put out any fires that occur.
Blocked Exits
Having clearly marked exits that are easily accessible is a vital aspect of fire safety. It allows people to safely exit the building in case of a fire. However, inspectors often find blocked exits, missing exit signs, and faulty doors.
All these violations put the lives of everyone in your building at risk. Ensure that all the paths to the outside are always clear of debris and other blockages. Even the smallest things in the way can cause problems if people need to get out quickly during an emergency.
Place visible signs and lights above the exits. Ensure that the lights work even if the power goes out. Doors should open with ease, and egress paths are always clear.
The idea is to make it as easy as possible for people to get to safety during an emergency. As such, ignoring these basic safety measures endangers all within a building if a crisis strikes.
Faulty Equipment
It may not seem like it, but faulty equipment often becomes ignition points if not repaired. Motors that don’t work right, wires that are falling apart, gas pipes that leak, and parts that are worn out can all create avoidable dangers.
For example, take the case of a commercial freezer with a door that doesn’t seal properly. Ice builds up over time, causing the unit to work extra hard to maintain the temperature. This can overheat the motors and wires, sparking a fire.
A small gas leak near an oven poses an obvious risk of explosion. Yet, these minor repair issues often go unnoticed during the day-to-day operations.
Inspectors specifically target high-risk equipment. This includes ovens, machines near flammable items, pumps, HVAC systems, and generators.
They smell for gas leaks, listen for odd noises signaling issues, and use thermal cameras scanning for hotspots suggesting imminent failure.
Mitigating the risk posed by faulty equipment requires investing in regular maintenance. Staying on top of your commercial inspections also helps identify minor issues, giving you a chance to fix them promptly.
Don’t Gamble With Fire Hazards - Schedule Your Commercial Inspection Today!
Fire hazards are a serious threat to your commercial property and the people who work or visit there. By identifying and eliminating them, you can reduce the risk of fire and ensure the safety of everyone on your premises.
This is where Central Florida Building Inspectors Inc. comes in.
We specialize in evaluating commercial buildings for any hazards. Our team takes a comprehensive approach when assessing your property. We even provide a detailed report of our findings and recommendations so you know how to best protect your investment and peace of mind.
Schedule an appointment today to experience the CFBI difference - we can’t wait to hear from you!
by CFBIBlog | Sep 28, 2023 | CFBI Blog
“Don’t pee in the pool, or the water will turn purple!” your friends used to tell you back in the day while swimming during summer vacation. Sadly, chlorine in the water doesn’t turn purple when exposed to urine. Instead, it becomes less effective at tackling bacteria and viruses, turning the water into a cesspool for disease.
That’s only the beginning of the silent problems a pool could be hiding. A pool can look perfectly functional on the surface, yet have major issues that remain unseen. You’d never know about them unless you hired swimming pool inspection services.
Is it worth the effort to pay someone to do a pool inspection? Here are seven reasons why you should.
1. Inspecting Your Pool Reveals Leaks
Obviously, your swimming pool uses a lot of water. The average pool contains around 5,000 gallons when completely full. Imagine how much your water bill will be when draining and refilling it!
Now, imagine what happens when your pool has a leak. You would never notice, because the pool might be set to fill itself up automatically. Even a small leak could easily drain several dozen gallons of water per day.
Of course, these leaks can be very hard to find. All it takes is a small crack in the concrete for water to seep through into the ground.
If you notice an above-average water bill, or a water level that is lower than usual, schedule an inspection. This can help identify these leaks long before they gouge your water bill.
2. It Detects Mold Growth
Mold loves warm, humid places to grow. It just so happens that your pool is an excellent location for mold spores to bed down and germinate.
Mold can spread throughout your pool in unsuspecting ways. It may grow out of view within the skimmer door, spreading silently into the pipes. Your kids could be swimming alongside a mold infestation and never realize it!
Mold can be resilient, even in the presence of chlorine. Many people fall into the false sense of security that chlorine kills any and all unwanted infestations.
Mold is, of course, terrible for your respiratory system. It can cause lung infections and inflammation when inhaled.
Identifying and exterminating a mold outbreak before it gets really bad is essential. A pool inspection is the best way. Plus, the inspector may be able to figure out why mold keeps growing back after repeated removals.
3. It Identifies Safety Hazards
Next on your inspection checklist is ensuring the pool is safe to use. Safety hazards can come in the form of pool damage you otherwise overlook.
For example, broken tiles could cut the feet of children walking over them. They start off with a small crack that widens over time. Eventually, someone steps on it and the tile sticks out, and by then it’s too late.
Pools break and wear down like anything else in your home. As they do, they present risks to the health and safety of occupants. If you don’t have a regular inspection, someone could hurt themselves and require a hospital visit.
4. It Ensures the Filtration System Works
The backbone of every pool is an effective, well-running filtration system. Like HVAC, your filtration system keeps your pool clean, germ-free, and looking good. And like HVAC, it requires regular maintenance.
An inspection may reveal that you are in need of more pool maintenance. The filters could be in dire need of a swap, or you might have a loose rubber washer on the pump’s connectors.
The longer you go without maintaining these things, the worse your pool performs-and the costlier your utility bill gets. Spending the money to tune things up sooner rather than later is, at the end of the day, the most economical option.
5. It Keeps Chlorine Levels in Check
Chlorine is amazingly efficient at removing unwanted contaminants from your pool. Unfortunately, though, it’s also the basis for toxic gas. Although your pool isn’t going to present a serious threat to your kids’ safety, it can cause short-term health effects.
Having too much chlorine can cause skin rashes, red eyes, or provoke respiratory symptoms. Likewise, having too little chlorine reduces the effective pH needed to keep the pool clean-and makes it even tougher to tackle urine. You may never realize your chlorine levels are off without an inspection.
Maintaining healthy chlorine levels is tricky. It requires you to be something of a chemist, measuring the pH and adjusting the pellets and the dispersal. There’s no better time than during a pool inspection to ask questions about how to better maintain your chlorine levels.
6. It Lets You Know if You Need an Upgrade
For all you know, your pool could be underperforming. A simple upgrade, such as buying a better pump, could make it run much better than it does. You’d never know about this without having a regular inspection.
A pool inspector can identify the areas where you can make your pool look, feel, and perform better.
Inspections also present an excellent source of knowledge. Have a question about how to better clean your pool? Your technician can give suggestions and recommend tools for you to buy.
7. It Keeps Everything Up to Code
Every state has firm regulations on pools. Restrictions on how big they can be, how they drain off, and so on. For all you know, your pool may not be up to regulation standards.
For example, you may have an electrical issue with the wire grounding. This not only violates the law, it could very well be a risk to your own well-being. Hire swimming pool inspection services to make sure your pool is up to snuff with local red tape.
Get Swimming Pool Inspection Services With CFBI
Swimming pool inspection services help you identify current and future issues with your pool that you wouldn’t notice otherwise. Inspecting your pool can identify mold growth, pool safety hazards, and deficiencies in needed pool maintenance. You never know what secrets your pool could be hiding, so it’s important to schedule an inspection regardless of the pool’s condition.
CFBI provides a wide variety of home and commercial solutions in the Orlando and Tampa area. Reach us here to schedule an appointment.
by CFBIBlog | Aug 29, 2023 | CFBI Blog
Have you ever walked into a building and wondered about its structural soundness? Have you considered buying or leasing a commercial space?
Regular inspections are essential for safety and compliance. That is especially true if you own or manage commercial buildings in Central Florida.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what commercial building inspections entail. Keeping up-to-date with inspection processes can make a difference in your investment decisions. Read on to uncover the five things you need to know!
1. The Importance of Commercial Building Inspections
The safety and integrity of commercial buildings don’t only happen. Before any commercial space becomes operational, it must undergo a thorough inspection. These inspections ensure several important elements.
Safety
A building’s safety is the bedrock of its operations. Inspections act as a shield, guarding occupants against unforeseen hazards. Those hazards may include:
- Electrical faults
- Structural weaknesses
- Potential fire threats
Compliance
It’s not only about building standards. It’s about maintaining a reputation.
Ensuring the building aligns with local, state, and national building codes is vital. Non-compliance can result in hefty penalties and tarnish businesses’ image.
Longevity
Think of inspections as a health check-up for buildings. Businesses can avoid expensive repair costs by identifying potential issues early on.
Commercial building inspections are the unsung heroes. They ensure that commercial edifices are operational and optimal.
They not only guarantee safety and compliance. But they also offer peace of mind to stakeholders. They can rest easy knowing their establishment stands on solid ground.
2. The Difference Between Residential and Commercial Building Inspection
Residential and commercial building inspections serve the same core purpose. They both aim to ensure safety and compliance. But there are vital distinctions.
Size & Complexity
The most evident difference lies in the scale. Commercial buildings are larger than homes. Their architecture has these notable distinctions:
- Many floors or units
- Expansive spaces
- Varied purposes within a single structure
This scale and intricacy need a deeper, more extensive inspection process.
Equipment & Systems
Picture a typical house and a high-rise office building. The latter is bound to house advanced, large-scale systems essential for operation.
Such large-scale systems are anything from elevators to vast HVAC systems. Inspecting these ensure they work and meet specific safety standards.
Regulations
Building codes have intricate guidelines that properties must adhere to. But, these regulations tend to be even more rigorous with commercial buildings.
The reason for this is the sheer number of occupants. There’s an elevated risk with more people. So, the standards are set higher to ensure their safety and well-being. Recognizing these differences is paramount for property owners, investors, and inspectors.
3. The Inspection Process: What Does It Involve?
Understanding the building inspection process is pivotal when involved in commercial real estate. The process has multiple steps.
Exterior Inspection
This process covers the building’s facade, parking, landscaping, and drainage. It’s essential to spot issues like cracks or water pooling that are a red flag.
Interior Inspection
Commercial building inspectors look at the condition of walls, floors, and ceilings. There are other internal structures that inspectors may check. This inspection can reveal issues like mold, leaks, or structural problems.
System Evaluation: This involves checking the functionality of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
Documentation: Inspectors provide a comprehensive report detailing their findings and recommendations once completed.
After receiving the report, the building owner should address the noted issues. The most serious problems should be a priority. Regular inspections ensure safety and maintain the building’s value and function.
4. When to Schedule Commercial Building Inspections
Regular inspections ensure the continued safety and functionality of commercial buildings. There are some critical times you should schedule these.
Before Buy or Lease
Venturing into commercial real estate can be a significant investment. Before finalizing any buy or lease agreement, it’s wise to have a detailed inspection. This ensures you are stepping into a sound space without hidden problems.
After Renovations
New parameters come into play when a commercial space undergoes modifications. You must ensure that any changes to the structure follow building codes. An inspection post-renovation offers this assurance.
Periodic Maintenance Checks
As one would get a routine health check-up, commercial buildings need regular assessments. Scheduled inspections help spot minor issues before they turn into major problems.
This proactive approach safeguards the building’s longevity. It also leads to significant savings from costly future repairs.
The timing of commercial building inspections is as crucial as the inspection itself. Being proactive can make a marked difference in the life of a commercial property.
5. Choose the Right Inspector for the Job
Central Florida has a vast pool of commercial building inspectors. But choosing the right one is crucial. These are the factors to consider:
Credentials and Experience
The foundation of a competent inspector lies in their credentials. Certification assures that they’ve undergone the necessary training to check commercial properties. Beyond this, experience is critical.
An inspector with a track record of assessing commercial buildings has much knowledge. They can spot issues that a less seasoned eye might miss.
Specialization
The world of commercial real estate is diverse. That’s anything from sprawling malls to compact office spaces. It’s important to know that each property type also has unique challenges.
Some inspectors might specialize in specific commercial properties. Selecting someone whose specialization aligns with your property type is helpful. Doing this ensures a more nuanced inspection.
Recommendations
The proof of the pudding is in the eating, as they say. When choosing an inspector, past client experiences can offer valuable insights.
Before finalizing your choice, ask for references or look at reviews. Hearing about an inspector’s reliability and thoroughness lets you know what to expect.
Central Florida offers many options for commercial building inspectors. But a discerning approach will ensure you secure the best professional for the job.
Your Building’s Health Is Worth It!
The bustling landscape of Central Florida is where commercial spaces dot the horizon. Commercial building inspections aren’t a regulatory formality. They ensure these edifices’ safety, functionality, and longevity.
Are you considering purchasing, leasing, or renovating a commercial space in Central Florida? Trust only the best.
Contact Central Florida Building Inspectors today. They will ensure your building stands tall and safe for years.
by CFBIBlog | Aug 4, 2023 | CFBI Blog
Did you know that some Americans are budgeting up to three weeks of income toward summer vacations? If you run a hotel, that means you need to prepare for a surge in bookings. And that also means you need to make sure you’re operating a safe building where guests can feel comfortable.
Plan on committing to regular building inspections from certified experts. And keep reading to learn about the nine benefits of having your hotel’s balcony railings inspected!
1. Ensure a Safe Building for Guests
The main reason to get a balcony inspection is to make sure you’re providing a safe environment for your guests. When people book a stay at your hotel, they have expectations that their safety is top of mind.
Summer storms can wreak havoc on building materials. This is particularly true in areas prone to hot and humid summers. If you operate a hotel in an area with volatile weather, you’ll need to be especially committed to routine hotel inspections.
2. Discover Safety Issues
A balcony inspector is trained to spot problems that conflict with balcony code requirements. Their job is to offer an objective account of your building’s condition. Further, they will provide recommendations for improvements and, in some instances, estimated costs.
Even if you think you are good at spotting issues like rot or loose screws, you won’t have the expertise of someone trained as an inspector. For the most thorough evaluation, you need to hire a professional to look at your balcony and building.
They will understand how problems like rusted metal or poor drainage can contribute to bigger problems down the road. They also can look at things like support beams and other areas of vulnerability.
3. Gain Access to the Best Inspection Methods
Quality building inspectors will have sophisticated ways to inspect your building. You’ll learn much more about the state of your structure than you would by just making quick visual assessments. Beyond just the railings, inspectors can give you a detailed report regarding all aspects of your building.
Drones can provide footage of your roof and other portions of the property that are difficult to see. Inspectors will use moisture meters to assess the integrity of your structure’s walls. They also will know when to wear protective gear, like safety goggles or harnesses.
4. Avoid Liability
The last thing you want to see happen is a guest sustaining an injury at your hotel. If a guest falls or hurts themself on account of a faulty balcony railing, you will be liable for the problem.
You may need to cover the costs of medical bills. And your hotel’s reputation will sink if people know that the structure is unsafe. You can prevent these scenarios by getting regular inspections and heeding the suggestions.
5. Help Determine Your Maintenance Budget
Investing in regular hotel inspections may sound like a hassle. But doing so can help you plot an annual budget and account for upcoming expenses more easily.
For example, if you own a waterside hotel, corrosion is a realistic expectation. High salinity levels in the air can break down balcony materials more quickly.
An annual inspection can help you understand the state of your fasteners, railing, and decking. And you’ll be able to anticipate a timeline for future repairs.
6. Comply With Regulations
Do you know the regulations regarding inspections in your state? As a business owner, you should check. You may need to have hotel inspections at particular intervals to operate legally.
Turn to a state-licensed inspector for these evaluations. You can trust that these individuals will have the experience and trained eye to spot problems.
For instance, they will know if the type of railings you have are compliant with current requirements. And they will assess things like the condition of your railing, the spacing of the slats, and the level of rust.
7. Steer Clear of Bigger Expenses
Think of balcony railing inspections as a preventative effort. In other words, you can avoid much more costly repairs to your property later if you address smaller issues first.
Your balcony inspector might suggest trimming nearby trees to avoid the buildup of debris. They may suggest replacing parts that are warped, water damaged, or rusted.
These smaller efforts are worth your time. Maintain a balcony repair checklist after meeting with an inspector so you can prevent larger structural repairs later.
8. Maintain a More Attractive Property
A balcony inspection can keep your property looking its best. While safety is the top goal, the curb appeal of your property matters, as well. An inspection can alert you to structural issues, many of which also show up in the appearance of balcony railings.
Waterproofing a railing or replacing one as needed will enhance the appearance of your hotel. And your guests will notice. A well-kept hotel reflects well on you, and it might just earn you better ratings.
9. Improve Your Property’s Value
Lastly, you should pursue an inspection because it can boost your hotel’s value. An attractive hotel with strong structural integrity could command a higher asking price. Should you ever seek to sell your property, you’ll have an advantage.
Gradually maintain and improve your property over time. Then you won’t have to spend a lot on last-minute improvements. You also will be less likely to face unpleasant surprises when a potential buyer has the property inspected.
Get Balcony Railings Inspected
You want to feel confident that the balcony railings in your hotel are sturdy when guests lean over them. Make sure you’re having regular balcony and hotel inspections. Professional inspectors can help you spot structural issues before they become major problems.
When you need hotel inspections to keep your property safe, contact us for help!
by CFBIBlog | Jul 8, 2023 | CFBI Blog
There are about 10.4 million residential pools in the US.
A pool is a great addition to any home. It provides a place to relax and have fun during the summer and also helps increase the value of a property. There can, however, be certain issues that arise with them.
One of the most common problems is pool leaks. Before you go online and start searching for “Pool leak detection near me”, you may want to get an idea of what goes into pool leak detection and how much it will cost.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know. Keep reading for more.
Pool Leak Detection Cost Factors
Like with many home services, there can be pool features that affect the exact cost of pool leak detection. This is because there are a range of factors that can have an impact on the price.
Pool Inspections
If you think you might have a pool leak, the first thing you need to do is have it inspected. This will often cost somewhere between $125 and $250.
A pool inspector will look at the lining, railings, gaskets, skimmers, and other accessories. These should all be properly intact. They’ll also make sure there are no issues with the mechanical elements, electrical hookups, and chemical levels.
The inspector will then provide you with information on how you can fix any leaks or prevent them in the future. They might recommend additional work if you have any extensive areas, such as underground pool plumbing.
Type of Pool
The type of pool is another important factor as it determines how difficult the inspection is. For above-ground pools, leak detection can cost between $200 and $500.
With inground pools, the inspection takes more work, and there’s likely to be more complex plumbing. Leak detection will typically cost somewhere between $350 and $600.
Type of Liner
There are three main materials used for pool liners: concrete, vinyl, and fiberglass. These can have a huge impact on the cost of repairing a leak.
For concrete liners, the repair is usually about $75 per linear foot. Fiberglass liner repair and recoating typically costs about $300-$400. If you need to repair or replace a vinyl liner, it can cost anywhere from $350 to $3,600.
Leak Type and Location
After an inspection, you’ll have a better idea of where a leak is located and how severe it is. Naturally, some leaks require a lot more work to fix than others.
Tile repairs, for example, are fairly inexpensive, costing about $20-$30 per linear foot. Main drain repair is one of the more expensive fixes and is often about $400-$700.
Leak Size
In almost all cases, the smaller a leak is, the less it will cost to fix. In some situations, a waterproof patch may be enough (at least as a temporary solution). These typically cost about $20-$30.
In extreme cases, however, you might have to excavate a part of your lawn so that the leak is accessible. This could easily cost from $50-$200 per cubic yard.
Labor
This is often the most expensive part of pool leak detection. It’s also arguably the most important.
You want to ensure your pool is inspected by a qualified professional to be sure they can find the leak and determine the best solution. Bear in mind that they’ll also have all of the equipment required, which the average person won’t have access to.
Additional Costs
Water often causes damage beyond the original issues. A leak in a home can lead to mold, for example.
If you have a leak in your pool and it takes you a while to notice it, there could be damage to the pool structure and the surrounding lawn area. There may be other costs if there’s any other work you need to do as a result of a pool leak.
Pool Coping
Coping that sits behind your pool wall can sometimes be damaged. Repairing this typically costs from $30-$50 per linear foot.
Beam Repair
An inground pool will have structural beams to keep it stable. If you need to replace these, it will usually cost about $75 per linear foot.
Erosion Repair
A significant pool leak can cause erosion, so you may need land leveling, regrading, and landscaping services to deal with this. Soil removal should cost around $8-$25 per cubic yard, and then you’ll likely pay $1-$12 per cubic yard of grading.
Chemical Refresh
A leak can cause an imbalance of pool chemicals, so you should check this before you start using your pool again. You can get a home test kit for about $15. If you want to hire a professional to rebalance your pool chemicals, you can expect to pay somewhere between $50 and $100 an hour.
Can You Detect a Leak Yourself?
DIY pool leak detection is possible, though it’s not always the best idea. You may be able to find it simply by using a pair of goggles and inspecting your pool yourself. Repairing a leak, however, is usually a lot more challenging.
If the leak is very small, waterproof tape or other patching supplies should only cost you about $30-$45. Bear in mind that there’s a good chance your repair won’t be sufficient, and it will continue to get worse with time. For the best results, you should always hire a professional to do such work.
Pool Leak Detection Near Me
Before you go online and search for “Pool leak detection near me”, it’s best to consider your exact needs. You want to make sure you hire a local company that’s reliable and experienced so you can be confident things will be done right.
CFBI is the leading residential and commercial building inspection company in Florida. We can perform pool inspections and pool leak detection services along with a range of other services too. Take a look at our swimming pool inspection page to find out more about how we can help you.
by CFBIBlog | May 24, 2023 | CFBI Blog
It costs an average of up to $1,000 to fix a pool leak if you don’t catch it in time.
The expense only goes up the longer you wait. Detecting the warning signs of a leak avoids costly damages and keeps your pool healthier for longer.
Don’t fret if you’re looking for pool leak detection near me and you’re stumped. We’ll teach you everything you need to know, so don’t go anywhere.
Signs of a Leaking Pool
When looking for leaks, the most obvious sign is water loss.
A significant drop in the water level of a pool is a clear sign that it’s leaking. On average, an outdoor pool should only lose a quarter of an inch of water per day to evaporation. Any more and a leak is likely.
Other signs of leakage include:
- Visible cracks
- Wet spots
- Algae growth
- Unexplained water bills
The Importance of Professional Pool Leak Detection
Some leaks are easy to identify.
As the pool owner, you and your family, loved ones, or customers are regularly in and around your pool. Often, you’re the first to notice the signs of water damage.
Yet some pool leaks are insidious, hard to spot, and will cause trouble if left unattended. Professional pool leak detection services are a necessity, and for several reasons:
- Detection accuracy
- Early pool leak detection
- Safety
- Efficiency
- Preventing further damage
- Saving costs
Professionals have the tools and the skills necessary to accurately diagnose pool leaks. They will identify preventative steps and repair methods necessary to save time and money - and reduce downtime for maintenance.
On top of this, pool leaks are hard to find.
A pool is a large body of liquid and finding the one spot it’s leaking from is time-consuming and labor-intensive. Whether it’s you, your family, or your employees who are looking for it, a pool leak costs you effort, energy, and money for every moment it continues.
Professional detection services will identify the source of a leak quickly, allowing for faster repairs and minimal safety concerns.
Benefits of Hiring a Leak Detection Service
It’s far easier—and less stressful—to hire a professional pool leak detection service. That’s because professionals have the expertise to diagnose and deal with leaks and provide a comprehensive service package to fix any issue.
They’ll not only find the leak but assess the extent of any damage and recommend the best course of action. This ensures the leak is repaired and can prevent further pool damage in the future.
It may initially seem expensive to hire a professional detection service, but in the long run, it will save you money. Accurate leak detection will prevent damage to your pool, waste water expenses, and more expensive repairs later on.
Professional Pool Inspections
What should you expect during a professional leak inspection?
During a pool inspection, a professional inspector will thoroughly examine the pool and its associated equipment for any signs of damage, wear, or potential leaks. This can help identify issues before they become significant problems and ensure the pool is functioning correctly and safely.
Most inspections cover three aspects of your pool: your pool’s structure, its plumbing system, and its filtration equipment.
The inspector may also perform pressure or dye tests to identify hidden leaks.
What to Do When You Notice a Leaky Pool
The repair method for a pool leak will depend on its location and severity.
For small leaks in the lining, patch repairs can be an effective (if temporary) solution. Epoxy injections are commonly used to fix cracks in the concrete and involve injecting epoxy directly into the cracks.
Leaks in the plumbing system may require replacement pipes or the services of a plumbing technician.
If a pool’s plaster is showing extensive signs of damage, it may be necessary to replaster from scratch.
How to Find a Local Pool Leak Detection Company
Once you find a pool leak, you need to find somebody to fix it. With the internet at your fingertips, you’ll find that you’re inundated with potential, so it’s important to narrow your search down.
A quick online search can net you a list of local companies to turn to. Their websites will contain information on their service packages and years of experience. Ensure the service provider you choose is fully licensed and insured to perform the repair work and hunt around for referrals or online reviews to check that their money is where their mouth is.
Remember to ask for upfront repair quotes. Requesting quotes from several pool leak specialists will allow you to compare their prices and services, and opt for the company that provides the best value.
Finally, remember to read your repair contract thoroughly before signing.
Pool Leak Prevention Tips
Adequate pool leak prevention can help reduce the likelihood of future leaks, extending the life of your pool. Preventing leaks is a three-step process that involves regular pool inspections, water management, and regular maintenance.
Visual inspections will identify leaks while maintaining proper water chemistry and cleaning the pool to prevent the buildup of algae and damage to the pool’s structure.
Keep water filters free of debris and pumps lubricated.
When inspecting your pool for signs of a leak, check for peeling paint cracks. Other signs of wear and tear might also give you a heads-up before the leak gets expensive.
Finally, check your pool’s water levels at least once per week. Unusual drops in water level are a sure sign that you’ve sprung a leak somewhere.
Pool Leak Detection Near Me
Pool leaks are frustrating, costly problems for pool owners.
But with the help of a professional, these issues can be identified and repaired with ease. Regular inspections and maintenance help prevent leaks from occurring and extend the life of your pool to save you money on your bottom line.
If you’re a pool owner in central Florida and you’re looking for pool leak detection near me, look no further. At CFBI, we’ve been in the industry since 1988 and we’ve improved our services year on year ever since. Click here to find out more about our pool inspection packages.
