Like any part of your home or yard, your pool must be maintained and will almost certainly develop problems over time. One of the potential issues that you should be aware of with your backyard swimming pool is a leak. Here at The Pool Store Inc., the professionals that provide poolside sales and service in Minneapolis, MN, also spend time repairing leaks prompted by a range of causes. Here are 5 of the most common reasons that pools leak. 

Temperature 

Changes in temperature can wreak havoc on your pool as frozen water causes cracks and other damages. These problems won't always be obvious until you start your pool back up as the weather gets warmer. You will need to safely close your pool for the winter, which may require that you drain the water. If you don't feel comfortable doing this yourself, we recommend you bring in a professional to help you close and open your pool and check for winter damage. 

Shifting Ground

Shifting ground can gradually apply pressure to your pool, leading to leaks. Along these lines, tree roots can expand into the foundation of your pool, pushing through and creating a hole. 

Construction 

Accidents happen, and many people have dealt with water loss or a power outage when a piece of construction equipment hits something it shouldn't. This sort of a mistake can also occur with your swimming pool.   

Chemicals

Chemicals are necessary for the safety and cleanliness of your pool, as they protect swimmers from bacteria and other things that might contaminate the water. We know it can be hard to maintain your pool at the right chemical levels, but we can't emphasize enough the importance of a correct balance. An imbalance isn't just dangerous for the people who use your pool; it can damage the foundation and various components of your pool, creating vulnerable spots and leaks. 

Time

Just about everything you own will eventually show signs of aging. Your pool will almost certainly develop problems from wear and tear over time. A leak is one way in which a piece of pool equipment can let you know that it needs to be replaced. 

Regardless of the cause and severity of your pool leak, you'll want to catch and repair it as quickly as possible. Leaks waste your money and often worsen over time, compromising the structure and safety of your pool. We recommend that you watch for any signs of damage and pay attention to your water levels. If you appear to be losing more water than you realistically would from evaporation and splashing, it may be time to get your pool checked out by the professionals.