Tile Trouble to Filter Fails: A Guide to Common Pool Repairs

Maintaining a swimming pool isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s essential to the longevity, functionality, and safety of your backyard oasis. As a top-rated pool builder in Knoxville, we understand the most frequent repair challenges homeowners face, and we’re here to provide detailed insights into how to tackle them effectively.

Cracked or Broken Pool Tiles: Causes and Fixes

Why It Happens

Cracked or missing tiles are a common issue in both concrete and gunite pools. These problems often stem from:

Freeze-thaw cycles
Shifting ground beneath the pool
Poor initial tile installation
Aging grout or degraded adhesives

Expert Repair Process

Inspection and identification of damaged tiles.
Precise removal using a hammer and chisel without disturbing adjacent tiles.
Cleaning the area thoroughly to ensure proper bonding.
Reapplying waterproof tile adhesive and inserting new tiles.
Regrouting with weatherproof materials.

Tip: For Knoxville’s climate, we recommend epoxy-based grout for its superior durability.

Pool Surface Delamination and Cracks

Symptoms of Structural Pool Damage

Bubbling or peeling of plaster or vinyl
Hairline cracks across the floor or walls
Discoloration or surface flaking

Professional Remediation

Plaster pools: We sandblast the damaged area, apply bonding coats, and reapply new plaster with a polished finish.
Vinyl pools: Replacement of the liner and re-inspection of the underlying wall panels.
Concrete pools: Pressure inject high-grade epoxy into cracks, followed by waterproof sealant application.

Malfunctioning Pool Filters and Pumps

Diagnosing Filter System Issues

A malfunctioning pool filter leads to cloudy water, algae growth, and chemical imbalance. The root causes often include:

Clogged filter media (sand, DE, or cartridge)
Broken impellers or O-rings
Air leaks in the suction line

Step-by-Step Resolution

Shutdown and inspect the pump and filter unit.
Clean or replace the filter medium.
Lubricate or replace O-rings as needed.
Check for air leaks using pressure gauges and smoke tests.

Skimmer and Drain Leaks

Signs to Look For

Unexplained water level drop
Damp soil near pool perimeter
Visible cracks around skimmer throat

Repair Protocol

Use dye testing to locate precise leak points.
Excavate and replace damaged PVC or ABS piping.
Apply hydraulic cement and silicone sealants around skimmers.
Test for vacuum integrity post-repair.

Heater Problems: No Heat or Inconsistent Heating

Common Faults in Pool Heaters

Calcium scale buildup
Faulty pressure switches
Pilot light ignition failure

Technical Fixes

Descale heating elements using chemical cleaning solutions.
Replace faulty sensors and switches.
Ensure proper gas supply or electrical continuity.

Pool Lights Flickering or Not Working

Underwater Lighting Hazards and Fixes

Water infiltration into light housing
Corroded fixtures
Damaged transformer or wiring

Safety-First Approach

Power off system at the breaker.
Remove and inspect the niche and gasket.
Replace waterproof LED fixtures with long-term warranties.

Deck Settling and Coping Separation

Deck Damage Can Lead to Structural Failures

Poor drainage and shifting soil can cause your deck to pull away from the pool shell, compromising both aesthetics and function.

Professional Repair Tactics

Mudjacking or polyurethane foam lifting for sunken concrete.
Expansion joint reinstallation between coping and deck.
Use of non-shrink grout for long-lasting realignment.

Plumbing Leaks Beneath the Pool Shell

Identifying Subsurface Issues

Continuous drop in water level
Soggy soil with no visible leaks
Air in the return jets

Non-Destructive Testing and Repair

Pressure testing each pool line
Acoustic leak detection
Trenchless pipe relining using epoxy sleeves

Maintaining a Leak-Free Pool: Preventive Maintenance Plan

As a seasoned pool builder in Knoxville, we implement strategic maintenance to eliminate recurring repair needs. This includes:

Annual pressure testing of pipes
Tile and grout inspections before winter
Quarterly filter and pump audits
Professional water chemistry balancing to preserve surface integrity

Cost Overview of Common Repairs

Repair Type	Average Cost Range (USD)
Tile Replacement	$300 – $1,000
Pump/Filter Repair	$200 – $800
Crack Injection	$500 – $2,500
Skimmer Leak Repair	$400 – $1,200
Pool Resurfacing (Plaster)	$4,000 – $10,000
Light Fixture Replacement	$150 – $700

Why Choose Our Expertise as Your Pool Builder in Knoxville

Over 15 years of hands-on repair experience
Licensed and insured for all pool system types
State-of-the-art tools for leak detection and resurfacing
Local knowledge of Knoxville soil and climate impact on pools

Schedule a Repair Consultation Today

If you’re dealing with any of the issues above, don’t wait for the damage to escalate. Our expert team is ready to evaluate, repair, and restore your pool to pristine condition. As the go-to pool builder in Knoxville, we’re committed to excellence and long-term durability.