Tampa, FL – Following the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene, manyTampa Bay area homeowners are dealing with the aftermath, especially concerning their swimming pools. Contaminated by salt water, sand, and other debris, pools across the region require immediate attention and professional intervention to prevent further damage to the finish. Robert Foster, owner of Hive Outdoor Living and a licensed pool contractor with over 30 years of experience, is urging homeowners not to attempt draining and cleaning their pools themselves.“As pool contractors with decades of experience, we know the dangers that come with improper drainage. Draining a pool without controlling the groundwater below can lead to catastrophic damage, even causing the pool to pop out of the ground. This type of damage can result in the complete demolition and costly replacement of the pool,” said Foster. Why Homeowners Should Never Drain Pools Themselves ? When a pool is compromised by contaminated water, the instinct may be to drain it immediately. However, this process must be handled by licensed professionals to avoid disastrous consequences. Improperly draining a pool without addressing the groundwater underneath can cause structural damage, resulting in thousands of dollars in repairs or the need for a completely new pool.“There’s a specific process that must be followed to ensure the safety and stability of the pool,” Foster emphasized. “Before any water is removed, the groundwater around the pool must be controlled.” The Correct Process for Pool Restoration1. Groundwater Management: First ensure the groundwater beneath the pool isunder control before starting the drainage process.2. Safe Drainage and Cleaning: The pool is then carefully drained and cleaned ofcontaminants to prevent further issues.3. Refilling and Equipment Check: After the pool is cleaned, it is refilled withclean water as quickly as possible. A thorough equipment check is performed toensure the pool pump and other systems are functioning correctly. If any damage is detected, the pool equipment will need to be replaced.Professional, Licensed, and Insured Services Homeowners are strongly advised to only work with licensed contractors who understand the risks involved in draining and restoring hurricane-damaged pools. Contractors also need to carry pool pop insurance. “Our goal is to help homeowners avoid further damage to their property and ensure their pools are safely restored.”, said Foster. For more information or to schedule a consultation with Hive Outdoor Living, please visitwww.HiveOutdoor.com or call 813-579-2444. About Hive Outdoor Living As a reputable second generation pool contractor with more than 30 years ofexperience in Florida, Hive Outdoor Living, led by owner Robert Foster, has been atrusted name in pool construction and repair for over three decades. Serving the Tampa Bay area, Hive Outdoor Living specializes in designing and building pools for homeowners across the region. License # CPC1458419.
