Swimming Pool Renovation & Leak Detection
A swimming pool is not just a luxury; it’s an investment that enhances the value and enjoyment of your home. However, pools can experience wear and tear due to weather, usage and age. Whether it's due to outdated tiles, cracked surfaces or leaks, a swimming pool renovation can give your pool a new lease on life. Renovation combined with leak detection ensures your pool is functional, safe and visually appealing.
Swimming Pool Renovation: The Key to Longevity
Why Renovate Your Pool?
Pools, like any feature in your home, need regular maintenance to retain their aesthetic and functional qualities. Renovation can address cosmetic and structural issues, restoring the pool to its former glory or upgrading it to a modern, stylish oasis. Whether you have an old concrete pool, a fibreglass pool or a vinyl-lined pool, a renovation can breathe new life into your pool area. The cost to renovate is often much more cost-effective than building a new pool. Having an existing pool is an excellent starting point – the cost of an average entry swimming pool built with a safety cover in 2024 is around 100-140k. Renovating an existing pool can often cost less than 30-50k and you can usually achieve the same look.
1. Resurfacing and Tile Replacement
A common reason to renovate a pool is to fix the worn-out surface. Over time, the plaster, Marbline, or other materials used in pool finishes can degrade. Resurfacing is an effective way to improve the look and functionality of the pool. If your pool has cracked or discoloured tiles, replacing them can help achieve a fresh look. Choose from glass tiles, mosaic tiles or natural stones to give your pool a high-end aesthetic.
2. Upgrading Pool Equipment
An essential part of renovation is replacing old, inefficient equipment with more modern, energy-efficient models. Consider upgrading your pool equipment by switching to a variable-speed pump, using Active Filtration Media (AFM) in your filter, replacing oil and gas boilers with inverter air source heat pumps, and upgrading lighting systems to energy-efficient LED bulbs. Energy-efficient models reduce overall energy costs, improve water circulation and enhance your pool’s performance. For your convenience, we can install smart pool technology, including remote-controlled systems, automated cleaning devices, and dosing systems.

3. Landscaping and Poolside Amenities
While the pool is the focal point, don’t overlook the surrounding landscape. Landscaping adds beauty and relaxation to the pool area. Consider adding elegant pool decking, stylish lighting, outdoor furniture or water features like fountains or waterfalls. These upgrades can elevate the poolside experience and make your swimming pool feel like a luxury retreat. Consider your environment carefully - focus on longevity and seamless integration, not fleeting trends. After all, we live in the Home Counties, not Las Vegas!
Leak Detection: Protecting Your Pool and Property
A pool leak is more than an inconvenience, it can lead to costly damage if not addressed promptly. If your pool is losing water at an abnormal rate, it’s crucial to find the source of the leak quickly.
How much is abnormal?
More than 1” per week! But don’t worry, many leaks can be resolved within 1-3 hours, so if in doubt, book a leak detection survey now.
How to Detect a Pool Leak?
There are several ways to detect a pool leak, but it's best left to Thames Pool Care to perform accurate diagnostics. One common technique is the "bucket test." By filling a bucket with water and placing it on the pool step while marking the water levels inside and outside the bucket, you can determine if the loss is due to evaporation or a leak. This works great for indoor pools.
1. Pressure Testing
Thames Pool Care use pressure testing to find leaks in the flow and return system. This involves temporarily sealing the pipes and using a gauge to check for any pressure loss, which can indicate a potential leak in the system. We follow the guidelines as set out by SPATA.
2. Dye Testing
Dye testing is an option for pools with visible cracks or suspect spots. Thames Pool Care inject a special dye into the water near potential leak sites. If there is a leak, the dye will be drawn into the crack or hole, confirming the location of the issue.
3. Concrete vs. Vinyl Pool Leaks
The type of pool you have influences how the leak will be found. Concrete pools may develop cracks in the surface or plumbing, while vinyl-lined pools can experience tears or punctures. Fibreglass pools often develop leaks around the edges. Each type of pool requires a tailored approach to detect and repair the leak. Thames Pool Care upon initial investigation will help you navigate the process.

What Happens if You Don’t Address a Pool Leak?
If left undetected, a swimming pool leak can cause structural damage to your pool’s foundation and surrounding landscape. The loss of water can also lead to costly increases in water bills, not to mention an increased risk of pool equipment failure. For example, when the water level drops too low, it can cause the pool pump to run dry, damaging the motor. Additionally, continuous leaks can impact the integrity of the surrounding concrete or decking. So don’t ignore the issue.
The Resolve
A swimming pool renovation paired with effective leak detection ensures that your pool remains a source of fun and relaxation for many years. Renovating your pool will enhance its appearance and boost its functionality, energy efficiency and overall longevity. Leak detection, on the other hand, helps preserve the integrity of your pool and prevents unnecessary costs and damage. Whether you’re refreshing an old pool or upgrading it with the latest technology, investing in renovation and proper leak detection will ensure that your pool and overall assets remain the safe, beautiful and enjoyable oasis it should be.
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