The skimmer located on the wall of the pool or spa is engineered to remove debris from the surface of the pool by drawing in the top 1/8" of water from the structure. Any debris that lands on the surface is drawn towards the skimmer and then sucked into the skimmer basket preventing it from becoming water logged and sinking to the bottom (thus making the pool look dirty). The skimmer, a plastic fitting embedded in poured concrete, becomes brittle with age. If the surrounding concrete moves or the skimmer sinks due to improper installation, the plastic will typically crack, causing leaks and reducing the performance of the circulation system.
Unbeknown to many home owners, skimmers can be replaced. It is a relatively straight forward process involving concrete cutting, setting and restoration processes. If you feel your swimming pool or spa may require attention in this area please contact West Coast Pool Service. We can provide you with a proposal to replace your skimmer as well as any restorative deck or coping repairs to restore the ascetics and circulation system of the pool and / or spa.