Repair of skimmer

[Larry F]

To start a little information, I have a 38 year old 8100 gal pool (small). I bought the house almost 4 years ago and it was in somewhat bad shape, rust coming through, very old looking, and in desperate need for a major update. We did the resurfacing and had the deck paved over installed new ladders, the works. about 2 years later I noticed a leak and looked for it for weeks. Couldn't find it and had a company come in and located it in 10 minutes. There was a seam in the skimmer that had a small leak. I was told that the useful life of a skimmer is around 15 - 20 years. Being that mine was 38 years I was upset that the pool contractor didn't recommend I replace it when we did all the work. now to replace it around $1200.00. Well the leak put put epoxy all around and said it would work at least a few months and maybe more. I can't afford $1200.00 now and was wondering if anyone had any experience with Flex Seal? I was thinking of lowering the water level below the skimmer, plug the one pipe from the main floor drain, and drain the skimmer. Then paint a coat or two of Flex Seal from above the water line to at least 5 or 6 inches below the seam that has the small leak. Has anyone tried this or have any information that I can use about this.
Thanks in advance

 

[woodyp]

Cheap enough to try and find out for sure. I'd also think a good marine epoxy like Marine Tex from a boat dealer would last a loooooong time.

 

[Larry F]

Thanks Woodyp, I was hoping to get some information on the flex seal. Also hoping that someone has tried it. The ad use to say bonds to all surfaces but now says bonds to most surfaces. To me that's a big change. I was also curious about how the chemicals would affect it? Does the Marine Tex have to applied to the dry and empty skimmer or can it be applied in water? Thanks again.

 

[pooldv]

Dont know about flex seal. But, i would use AB putty or pool putty on that leak, it cures underwater.