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.
by CFBIBlog | May 2, 2023 | CFBI Blog
Swimming pools are a great way to enjoy the summer heat and cool down, but they also create a lot of water waste. Using a pool cover can stop up to 95% of pool water evaporation. But ensuring you have the best pool hardware and looking for pool cracks is also essential for preserving water.
Most homeowners and real estate agents write a pool inspection checklist so they are prepared and won’t need to pay unexpected costs for multiple repairs like pool leaks. This way, you stay on top of your maintenance to-do list and avoid running into issues when you book a pool inspection.
Whether you’re inspecting a pool in your backyard or on a larger property, pool safety is vital when young children or visitors are swimming in the water.
This article will give you an overview of everything you need to know about your next pool inspection.
What Is a Pool Inspection?
When you see pictures of clear, blue swimming pools online, it’s easy to think that all you need is the space and water. But, the truth is you need to look after your property with regular cleaning. And professional inspections for them to look picture-perfect.
Pool inspectors examine all aspects of your swimming pool, from the surrounding area to the internal cleaning systems. Depending on the property, there are several official guidelines for hygiene and safety. So, a professional pool inspection checks that you have all the necessary features of a safe swimming pool.
For new homeowners, it’s vital that you hire a pool inspector to ensure that the swimming pool is functional. Sometimes, it’s possible to ask to see previous pool inspections from real estate agents. This way, new buyers can assess the quality of the pool and if they need to invest in a renovation.
A pool inspection cost will vary from place to place, as it includes the property’s size and the swimming pool’s condition. The best way to determine the cost is to ask a professional company for an estimate. Or, book a consultation and receive a quote before the inspection.
It’s recommended that swimming pools are inspected every few years, so it’s a good idea to find a reliable company. They can keep a record of all your inspections, and this makes it easier to keep track of costs.
Follow This Pool Inspection Checklist
There are some improvements that homeowners can make before inspections, such as a deep clean of the tiles and removing hazards from the nearby ground. But every swimming pool has different features, which means it’s easy to overlook an important part of the inspection.
So, to help you keep an overview of the basic requirements that allow you to pass an inspection, here are the fundamental components to consider:
- Research pool safety in your area
- Pick suitable tiles for the swimming pool
- Install a pool heater
- Explore light options for better efficiency
- Check the pool accessories are safe
- Clean the water filters
For safety requirements, you need to think about your property and the type of visitors you have in the swimming pool. Placing fences around the water prevents pets like dogs from dragging dirt from the yard. Keeping swimming floats and other safety items nearby is great for children who want to learn to swim.
Any swimmer in the pool needs to be able to touch the bottom with their feet or use a float. These are important safety instructions if the pool is in a family home.
Research your region’s local swimming pool guidelines, which will state the length of fences and water quality. Your inspector will alert you to problems during the appointment, but it’s good to be educated before they arrive. This saves time and money investing in safety upgrades.
Benefits of a Pool Inspection
Buying a property with a swimming pool is exciting, and many people put this feature at the top of their priorities when scouting for a home. But, if you move to a new place with an old swimming pool, it can be expensive to make repairs. Especially if it’s a large swimming pool that takes up most of the outdoor space.
Hiring a pool inspector allows you to assess the current structure and evaluate if it’s worth investing in renovations. A professional can advise you on the safety requirements so you build a new swimming pool up to the government’s standards.
Another reason to book a pool inspection is to keep people safe in the water. Even though most pool inspections don’t include water testing, they prevent other issues like cracked titles and blocked filters. This limits the risk of accidents near the swimming pool and gives you more peace of mind.
The internet gives us endless information on fixing electricity problems, but when there’s water involved, you need to be extra cautious. It’s better to hire a qualified pool inspector to come and identify issues in the swimming pool. This saves money on buying equipment that doesn’t work or worsens a problem with a lack of experience.
Your pool inspector knows where to look at the pumps and light features, so you don’t need to put yourself in an unsafe situation.
Without the correct guidelines, homeowners can face high fines for not getting their swimming pool inspected and ignoring this swimming pool inspection checklist. Don’t waste money on avoidable issues; let us inspect your property.
Book a Pool Inspection for Your Home
All you need to do is follow this pool inspection checklist, and you won’t need to worry about breaking regulations. It’s important that your inspector has experience and qualifications, as this is essential for getting official approval.
Our pool inspections are quick and efficient so that they won’t interfere with your other tasks. And you can make the most of the beautiful weather with a cooling swimming pool!
We also offer a leak detection service that reduces the amount of water waste and protects the tiles from damage. So, you can save time by looking up a pool leak detection near me online.
Pick a date and book your next pool inspection with our team here.
by CFBIBlog | Mar 25, 2023 | CFBI Blog
Your collection of financial investments sits in a pretty, pristine, and polished portfolio. At the core of your investment portfolio are stock investments, bonds, and cash. However, it also contains a wide range of assets in more tangible forms like art or real estate properties. What you can’t see can hurt you; this is why you should put a premium on rental property inspection.
Keep your investment portfolio immaculate with an inspection before you purchase a property. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Steer Clear of Unwanted Surprises
Properties are physical entities, and thus, they are subject to wear and tear. Some of these mishaps might be accidentally overlooked in a landlord inspection.
The building might have leaky roofs, utility issues, or faulty wiring. There could be mold or pests lurking in the deep recesses of the building. It would be a shame and a hazard if you found rusted support beams too late.
Buildings come with baggage. You might find that you’re okay with some issues and find remedies for them. The important thing is that you know about the property’s internal and external issues.
2. Get a Proper Estimate
Let’s say you’re eyeing a spruced-up home in the best location in town. The asking price is a pretty penny. What you don’t see is the myriad of hidden issues mentioned above.
Inspectors are like detectives. They know what they’re looking for and how to find the answers. If you’re paying a premium price on a premium house, you want to be sure things aren’t too good to be true.
If they find something wrong with the property in the rental property inspection, you might even score yourself a discount!
3. Ensure the Property Complies with Local Regulations
State and local property laws govern home renovations. You want a property that complies with the guidelines of city inspections. Skipping home inspections leaves much to chance.
Rented housing is a business of living spaces, a human right. Did you know that tenants have the power to sue landlords on the grounds of uninhabitable living conditions? Know what you’re getting into before you’re knee-deep in lawsuits.
4. Knowing Your Next Move
To know where you’re heading, you have to know your starting point. Are you investing to upgrade the building and resell in the future? Are you going to rent out the building?
The possibilities are endless.
Get the full picture not just for now but for the future. An investment like that needs thorough checking before pushing through. Grow your wealth by investing in rental properties with a seal of approval from quality property inspectors.
Book a Rental Property Inspection Today
Investing is like dating; you want to see the red flags so you can make informed decisions on commitment. A good rental property inspection digs up all the skeletons in the closet, whether literal or figurative. Rental property investments go on the record, so keep your portfolio clean.
Thank you for reading our article! Safety is our specialty. If you’re interested in building inspectors in Central Florida, book us today!
by CFBIBlog | Feb 28, 2023 | CFBI Blog
America has faced an ongoing housing shortage for a while now. Chalk it up to a big falloff in new construction following the 2008 financial crisis. The big home-buying frenzy of the last few years only made it worse.
So, it’s not hard to understand why Americans started building approximately 1.55 million homes in 2022. Of course, building a home is a different animal than buying an existing home.
For one thing, you don’t normally worry about things like a drywall inspection before installation. Yet, a pre-drywall inspection can offer you some real benefits. Keep reading to learn more.
1. Blueprint Consistency
Nobody likes to imagine that their contractor would cut corners to save a buck. Yet, with building material prices in a constant state of flux, contractors might look for ways they can keep costs down without necessarily mentioning it.
A pre-drywall inspection helps ensure that the building you get actually conforms with the building in the blueprints.
2. Plumbing Evaluation
The last thing a new homeowner wants in their brand-new house is a plumbing issue. After all, there’s a reason you hired professionals to build the thing for you.
Getting an inspector in before installing drywall lets them take a good, long look at the plumbing. If there’s an issue, it’s much easier to fix before the drywall goes up.
3. Electrical Evaluation
Another area where you don’t want to discover problems after you move in is the electrical system. Given how many people now work remotely, having unreliable power can become a serious problem for some people’s careers.
Having someone in for the pre-drywall inspection lets them take the same kind of long look at the electrical that they’ll take at the plumbing. If there are wiring problems, repairs will prove much simpler before the drywall installation.
4. Structural Integrity
While similar to checking for blueprint conformity, checking the structural integrity is a little different. The blueprint check is making sure the building follows the design pattern set out in the blueprint.
The structural integrity check ensures that the actual materials the contractor used will hold up to the rigors of daily use.
5. Code Compliance
Ironically, the construction of a building can prove safe and functional without meeting the local or national code requirements. The pre-drywall inspection makes sure that the contractor built your new home within the national and local codes, which can spare you a lot of headaches down the road.
Pre-installation Drywall Inspection and You
Granted, a pre-installation drywall inspection isn’t a requirement, but it’s almost always beneficial. It lets you know that the home you get will, barring something very odd, provide you with safe, functional plumbing and electrical service.
You also find out whether the home conforms with the plans set out in the blueprints without major deviations. You get a second opinion on structural integrity. Plus, you ensure that your home meets with the applicable local and national codes.
Central Florida Building Inspectors, Inc. offers pre-drywall inspections. For more information or to book an inspection, contact CFBI today.
by CFBIBlog | Jan 27, 2023 | CFBI Blog
The average age of a home in the state of Florida is 34 years old.
Whether you are selling or buying a home or renewing your home insurance on an older home, chances are you will need a 4-point inspection in the near future. In some cases, an upcoming 4-point inspection may be stressful, so it’s important to be prepared.
One way you can do this is by being aware of common reasons that 4-point inspections fail and how to spot the issues. This information will help you avoid unpleasant and expensive surprises.
Keep reading to find out about the most common reasons 4-point inspections fail.
What Is a 4-Point Inspection?
A 4-point inspection examines 4 major home systems: plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and roof. The purpose of the inspection is to give details about the condition of a building for insurance purposes.
4-point inspections are a highly effective way for insurance companies to mitigate risk, they don’t take long to conduct, and they don’t cost much. You should get regular inspections on your home to catch problems before they cause major damage.
Full inspections are even more comprehensive and will include doors and windows, drainage, and exterior conditions, among other things. For most insurance purposes, a 4-point inspection is enough.
Common Reasons 4-Point Inspections Fail
Most 4-point home inspection failures come from a handful of problems. Here are some of the most common ones.
An Aging or Leaking Roof
Roof problems develop over time, so they often are a reason for a 4-point inspection failure on older homes.
Inspectors will be looking for leaks and water spots, and missing or broken tiles or shingles. The age of the roof, the roofing material and the life expectancy of the current roof will all factor in.
Electrical and Wiring Problems
There is a range of things inspectors will look for when inspecting your home’s electrical system. Some of these include:
- Defective electrical boxes (Federal Pacific, Zinsco, Sylvania, among others)
- Double-tapped breakers
- Live knob-and-tube wiring
- Open electrical splices or unprotected cables
- Amperage too low for electrical loads
- Screw-in type fuses
- Newer electric receptacles connected to old wires
Poor or Non-Existent HVAC
HVACs are important to maintain air quality, ventilation, and the right temperatures throughout the home. Inspectors will be looking at the type of installed HVAC system and if it is functioning properly.
Window air conditioning units and space heaters are not considered installed units.
Old or Leaking Water Heater
Plumbing problems, when left untreated, can lead to big home repairs. In a 4-point inspection, various water sources will be checked. Among these are:
- Aging Water Heater
- Plumbing leaks
- Mold undetected by the homeowner
- Plumbing that is corroded or damaged
- Galvanized steel or polybutylene plumbing
- Washing machine drain hose that is damaged, deteriorated, or unsecured
4-Point Inspections
4-point inspections are an effective way of giving your insurance company a complete picture of the condition of your home. Inspection failures often come from plumbing, electrical, roof, and HVAC problems, so it’s important to be aware of the common issues.
Our team of certified and experienced home inspectors at Central Florida Building Inspectors offers commercial and residential inspection services. We provide you with accurate and trustworthy service, working with you to uncover all of your property issues. Contact us to schedule an inspection today!
