By Darren Merlob
When structural cracks happen in solid concrete applications, Torque Lock staples are a great solution for the repair.
Whether it’s a basement crack, swimming pool crack, or slab foundation crack, each Torque Lock staple will apply torque compression to stabilize the crack, preventing it from developing any further.
What makes the Torque Lock structural staples unique is the patented Cam Lock system. When installed, each Torque Lock staple creates 2,300 pounds of torque compression, resulting in strength and stability. Torque Lock staples set the standard for structural crack repair.
Applying only epoxy to a crack is not the way to fix a pool. While it may stop water from seeping through the crack, it does nothing to stop the crack from worsening. Epoxy is like a band-aid; it is temporary. As it hardens, it has the potential to break apart, and its ability to penetrate a pool wall is extremely minimized by simple gravity.
When injecting epoxy into a crack, it flows to the bottom of the crack and does nothing to fully penetrate a wall crack and remain behind the outside of the pool shell. Its ability to remain adhered to the inner lining of the crack is virtually nil, and as the crack widens, the epoxy separates and water starts to flow out of the crack again. Epoxy doesn’t stop the crack from getting worse.
When installing a Torque Lock structural staple, a controlled compression is applied to the crack. When aligned with the crack, and installed every 12 inches down the length of the crack, the applied pressure resists the concrete’s ability to spread. With up to 5,000 pounds of applied and torqued pressure, the crack cannot widen.
By penetrating the crack with hydraulic cement, it adheres to the inside of the crack, fully penetrates the shell, and literally rebuilds the area of the shell where the concrete has separated. Because the crack cannot spread or widen due to the application of Torque Lock staples, it is permanently repaired, and the lifespan of the structure is given back, creating a long, solid pool shell, the way it was intended to be when it was originally formed.
Structural cracks don’t always appear on a flat surface, so Torque Lock has come out with staples for corners. These come in two types: one for radius areas and one for 90-degree corners. These staples are larger than the flat staples, but perform the same with the same Torque compression as the flat staples.
Installing Torque Lock Staples
Using the templates provided with the staple kit and a wax pencil, mark where the staples will be inserted, marking both around the template, as well as for the two pinholes. Then drill two holes for the pinholes. Next, using a 4-inch diamond saw, make the rectangular cut where the template indicates on the pool surface. Chip out and remove the debris for installation of the staple.
Install the staples in 12-inch intervals down the length of the crack, staggering a six-inch staple with a three-inch staple.
Align the off-set cam into the staple, and then torque the cam to the predetermined pressure, and the staple is installed. Re-cover the surface with hydraulic cement and where applicable, water-proofing material may be used as an added measure to seal over the area of repair.
Darren Merlob is the owner and founder of LeakTronics, a manufacturer and distributor of leak detection equipment in Agoura Hills, CA. He has worked professionally in the industry for more than 30 years and has experience in pool renovation as well as leak detection and repair services. He can be reached via e-mail at info@leaktronics.com or by telephone at 818-436-2953.
