A Beginner's Guide to Pool Leak Detection

Owning a pool in Colorado comes with its own unique set of challenges. Our intense sun and dry air can cause water to evaporate quickly, while the freeze-thaw cycles can be tough on pool structures and plumbing. This can make it especially tricky to determine if you’re dealing with normal water loss or a genuine leak. That’s why understanding pool leak detection is so critical for local pool owners. A small crack or a broken underground pipe can become a serious issue when combined with our shifting soil conditions. As local experts, we’ll guide you through the best methods for finding leaks in our climate, helping you protect your pool from damage and keep it ready for fun all season long.

Key Takeaways

• Confirm a Leak with Simple Tests: Before making any calls, use the bucket test to rule out evaporation and walk around your pool to check for soggy ground or visible cracks. These basic steps can quickly tell you if you have a real issue.
• Know When to Call a Professional: While DIY methods like dye tests are useful for obvious issues, they can't find hidden leaks in underground pipes. If simple tests don't reveal the source, it's time to bring in an expert with specialized tools.
• Address Leaks Quickly to Prevent Major Damage: Ignoring a leak leads to more than just a high water bill; it can cause costly structural damage to your pool and surrounding property. Acting fast is the best way to protect your investment and avoid larger repair costs later.

What Is Pool Leak Detection (And Why It Matters)

Pool leak detection is simply the process of finding and locating leaks in your swimming pool. Think of it as a crucial health check-up for your backyard oasis. Catching a leak early is about more than just saving water—it’s about protecting your entire pool system. A seemingly small leak can strain your pump and filter, leading to costly equipment repairs and throwing your water chemistry out of balance.

Ignoring a potential leak can cause a cascade of problems, from surprisingly high water bills to serious structural damage to your pool and the surrounding deck. By being proactive and knowing what to look for, you can address issues before they become expensive headaches. It’s one of the most important parts of regular pool maintenance that keeps your investment safe and your pool ready for fun.

Is Your Pool Leaking? Here Are the Telltale Signs

It can be tricky to tell the difference between normal evaporation and a genuine leak, especially during our hot Colorado summers. However, there are a few clear signs that point to a problem. The most obvious indicator is your pool losing water too fast—if you’re having to top it off more than once a week, you might have a leak. Also, take a walk around your pool deck. If you notice any soggy spots in the grass or cracks and sinking areas in the concrete, that water is likely coming from your pool.

The Hidden Costs of Ignoring a Pool Leak

Putting off a leak repair might seem harmless, but it can lead to some serious and expensive consequences down the road. An ongoing leak can cause significant damage to your property, eroding the soil that supports your pool shell and deck. This can eventually lead to structural cracks and the need for major renovations. Beyond that, a constant flow of fresh water will dilute your pool chemicals, forcing you to spend more to keep the water balanced and safe for swimming. In the worst-case scenario, this erosion can even affect your home’s foundation if the pool is close by.

How to Know for Sure if Your Pool Is Leaking

So, you’ve noticed the water level in your pool is dropping faster than usual. It’s easy to jump to conclusions, but before you panic, it’s important to confirm whether you’re dealing with a leak or just normal evaporation. Here in Colorado, our dry air can make water disappear surprisingly fast. The good news is that you don’t need any special equipment to get a clearer picture of what’s going on. A few simple, at-home tests can help you determine if it’s time to call in a professional. These methods are straightforward and can give you the peace of mind you need or confirm that your pool needs attention.

Try the Simple Bucket Test

This is the classic, go-to method for a reason—it’s simple and effective. The bucket test helps you figure out if you're losing more water than what's expected from evaporation alone. Grab a standard 5-gallon bucket and fill it about three-quarters full with pool water. Place the bucket on one of your pool steps, making sure the water level inside the bucket is the same as the pool water level outside of it. Mark both levels with a piece of tape or a waterproof marker. Turn off your pump and let everything sit for 24 to 48 hours. If the pool’s water level has dropped more than the water level in the bucket, you probably have a leak.

How to Visually Inspect Your Pool for Leaks

Sometimes, finding a leak is as simple as taking a careful walk around your pool and its equipment. Put on your detective hat and look for anything out of the ordinary. Check the ground around the pool for soggy spots, erosion, or areas where grass is greener than the rest. Examine the pool shell for any cracks in the plaster or tears in the liner. Pay close attention to your equipment pad. Are there any drips, puddles, or white, crusty mineral deposits on the pipes? These are all tell-tale signs of a leak. If you spot issues around your pump or filter, it might be time to schedule professional equipment repairs and servicing.

Monitor Your Pool's Water Level

Keeping a consistent eye on your water level can tell you a lot. On a typical day, a pool can lose about a quarter-inch of water to evaporation, and maybe more on hot, windy days. To track it, mark the water level at the skimmer with a piece of tape and check it again 24 hours later. If you’re consistently losing more than a quarter-inch per day, a leak is a strong possibility. Another subtle clue is your chemical usage. If you or your pool tech find yourselves adding more chemicals than usual, it could be because a leak is constantly introducing fresh, untreated water. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help spot these trends early.

Effective DIY Methods to Find a Pool Leak

Once you’re pretty sure your pool has a leak, it’s time to play detective. Finding the source can feel daunting, but you can often narrow down the problem area on your own with a few simple tests. These methods are great first steps that help you understand what you’re dealing with. Even if you end up needing a professional, knowing the general location of the leak can make the repair process much smoother. Let’s walk through three reliable DIY tests to start your investigation.

Pinpoint Leaks with the Dye Test

The dye test is a classic for a reason—it’s great for pinpointing leaks around fittings, lights, or visible cracks in your pool’s surface. To do it, turn off your pump and filter so the water is completely still. Then, get close to a suspected leak area and slowly squeeze a few drops of dark food coloring or a special pool leak detection dye into the water. If there’s a leak, you’ll see the dye get pulled into the crack or opening. It’s a simple visual confirmation that helps you zero in on the problem.

Check Your Equipment and Fittings

Often, the leak isn’t in the pool itself but at the equipment pad. Your pump, filter, heater, and connecting pipes are common culprits that are usually easy to spot. Take a slow walk around your pool equipment and look closely for any signs of water—drips, seeps, or puddles on the ground. Pay special attention to the seals on your pump and filter gaskets, as these can wear out over time. Catching these issues early can prevent more significant equipment repairs down the road.

Test Your System with the Pump Off

This test helps you determine if the leak is in your pool’s plumbing by comparing water loss when your pump is running versus when it’s off. First, mark the water level with tape. Run your pump for 24 hours, then mark the new water level. Next, turn the pump off for 24 hours and mark the level again. If the pool loses more water when the pump is on, the leak is likely in the pressure-side plumbing. If it loses more water when the pump is off, the leak is probably on the suction side, like the skimmer lines.

How the Pros Find Pool Leaks

When you’ve tried the bucket test and the dye test with no luck, it’s time to see how the professionals handle it. Pool service experts have a whole toolkit of specialized equipment and proven techniques to locate leaks quickly and accurately, even when they’re hidden underground or inside your pool’s structure. These methods go beyond what you can typically do on your own, saving you from the headache of a drawn-out search and preventing further damage to your pool and property. A tiny, hidden leak can waste thousands of gallons of water, throw off your chemical balance, and lead to costly structural issues if left unchecked. That's why calling in an expert isn't just about convenience; it's about protecting your investment. They can distinguish between a simple fix and a sign of a more serious problem, ensuring the right solution is applied. Using a combination of experience and technology, a professional can systematically investigate every potential source of a leak, from the plumbing and equipment pad to the pool shell itself. This methodical approach ensures nothing is overlooked. Let’s look at some of the go-to strategies our certified technicians use for equipment repairs and servicing to get to the bottom of the problem without turning your backyard into a construction zone.

Using Electronic Leak Detectors

While methods like dye testing are great starting points, professionals often rely on electronic leak detectors to get an exact location. These sophisticated devices can find leaks in a pool’s vinyl liner with incredible precision or listen for the distinct sound of water escaping from underground pipes. Think of it as giving the technician superhuman hearing. This technology allows them to pinpoint a problem without extensive digging or guesswork. By combining electronic detection with other methods, a pro can confirm a leak’s location and develop the most effective repair plan, ensuring the fix is done right the first time.

Pressure Testing Your Plumbing Lines

If a leak is suspected in your pool’s plumbing system—the network of pipes running underground—a pressure test is the industry standard for diagnosis. A professional will isolate different sections of your plumbing, including the skimmer and return lines, and use specialized equipment to pressurize them with air or water. They then carefully monitor the pressure gauge. If the pressure drops, it’s a clear sign that there’s a leak in that specific line. This process systematically rules out different parts of the system, narrowing down the source of the problem. It’s one of the most reliable ways to confirm hidden swimming pool leaks.

Advanced Tools: Thermal Imaging and Hydrophones

For the trickiest leaks, pros bring out the high-tech gear. Thermal imaging cameras can detect subtle temperature variations in the ground surrounding your pool. Water escaping from a pipe will cool the soil, creating a distinct pattern that the camera can see, revealing the leak's path without any digging. Another powerful tool is a hydrophone, which is essentially an underwater microphone. By listening for the specific sound of water being forced out of a crack or faulty fitting, a technician can trace the noise to its source. These non-invasive pieces of pool leak detection equipment are fantastic for finding problems with minimal disruption to your backyard.

Top-Rated Leak Detection Products and Services

When you’re facing a potential pool leak, you have a few paths you can take. You can call in a team of professionals who live and breathe pool care, or you can roll up your sleeves and try to find the source yourself with a DIY kit. Both options have their place, but understanding the top-rated products and services available will help you make the best choice for your situation. The right solution depends on the complexity of the suspected leak, your budget, and how much time you’re willing to invest.

For many pool owners, especially those with hidden or persistent leaks, professional services offer peace of mind and precision that DIY tools can’t match. Experts come equipped with advanced technology and years of experience, allowing them to pinpoint leaks quickly and accurately without causing unnecessary damage to your property. On the other hand, if you suspect a simple issue, like a small tear in the liner near the water's surface, a DIY kit might be a good first step. Let’s look at some of the most trusted names and options in the world of leak detection.

Rocky Mountain Aquacare's Expert Services

When you want to leave your pool’s integrity in the hands of a local expert, turning to a professional service is your best bet. Here in Colorado, our team at Rocky Mountain Aquacare provides expert swimming pool leak detection. Our certified technicians are trained to identify and resolve not just the leak itself, but also any related operational or safety issues that might be lurking. We understand the specific challenges that come with Colorado’s climate, ensuring a thorough and effective approach. Choosing a professional service means you get a definitive answer and a clear path to a solution, saving you from the guesswork and potential frustration of going it alone.

LeakTronics Detection Equipment

You might wonder what gives professionals an edge. Often, it’s their high-tech gear. LeakTronics is a name trusted by pool technicians and plumbers for its specialized detection equipment. They offer a range of kits and tools designed specifically to find leaks in pool plumbing and structures with incredible accuracy. This professional-grade equipment allows technicians to hear leaks underground and pinpoint their exact location, which is something a simple dye test could never accomplish. When you hire a service like Rocky Mountain Aquacare, you’re also getting the benefit of their investment in these powerful tools.

American Leak Detection Technology

Another leader in the industry is American Leak Detection. They specialize in finding leaks in pools, spas, and fountains using advanced, non-invasive methods. Their approach is all about precision without destruction. Instead of digging up your backyard on a hunch, their trained experts use sophisticated tools to locate the problem accurately. This focus on technology protects your property from unnecessary damage and ensures the repair process is as smooth as possible. Their reputation is built on providing reliable results, making them another go-to for complex leak issues across the country.

The Best DIY Leak Detection Kits

If you’re confident you have a minor leak and want to try finding it yourself, a DIY kit can be a good starting point. These kits are generally affordable and user-friendly, often containing special dyes or simple listening devices. They can be effective for finding obvious leaks, like a tear in a vinyl liner or a crack in a skimmer box. However, it’s important to understand their limitations. DIY kits often lack the sensitivity to find subtle leaks in underground plumbing or small cracks in the pool shell. Before you invest, it’s wise to weigh the pros and cons to decide if a DIY approach is right for your situation.

How Much Does Pool Leak Detection Cost?

Figuring out the cost of pool leak detection can feel a bit like asking, "How long is a piece of string?" The final price tag depends on whether you go the DIY route or call in a professional, and several factors can influence the bill. While it’s tempting to focus only on the upfront expense, remember that finding and fixing a leak is an investment. It protects your property from water damage, saves you from shockingly high water bills, and keeps your pool structure sound for years to come.

Let’s break down what you can expect to pay, from simple home kits to comprehensive professional services.

The Cost of DIY Kits

If you want to start with a hands-on approach, a DIY leak detection kit is your most budget-friendly option. You can typically find dye testers or basic kits for under $50 at most pool supply stores. These are great for pinpointing obvious leaks around fittings, skimmers, or lights. The main advantage is the low cost and ease of use. However, it’s important to know their limitations. DIY kits can be inaccurate and limited in scope, meaning they won’t help you find a leak in your underground plumbing or a subtle crack in the pool shell. Think of them as a good first step, not a guaranteed solution.

What to Expect for Professional Service Rates

When a DIY kit doesn’t cut it, it’s time to call in the experts. A professional leak detection service typically costs between $300 and $600 for a comprehensive inspection, though this can vary based on your location and the complexity of your pool. While that might sound steep, you’re paying for advanced technology, expertise, and peace of mind. Companies like American Leak Detection use specialized equipment to find leaks with precision, saving you time and unnecessary digging. When choosing a provider, always check online reviews to ensure you’re hiring a reliable team for your equipment repairs and servicing. An experienced technician can find the exact source of the problem quickly and efficiently.

Factors That Affect the Final Cost

The final invoice for a professional leak detection service isn’t one-size-fits-all. Several key factors will influence the total cost. The size and type of your pool play a big role; a large, free-form gunite pool with an attached spa is more complex to inspect than a small, rectangular vinyl liner pool. The location of the leak also matters. A simple fix in the skimmer is much less intensive than locating and accessing a broken pipe buried under your deck. The methods needed to find the leak—from simple dye tests to acoustic listening devices and pressure testing—will also affect the price. The most important thing is to act fast, as delaying can lead to more damage and higher costs down the line.

What to Look For in a Leak Detection Service or Product

Choosing a leak detection solution, whether it's a DIY kit or a professional service, is a big decision. You want to find the source of the problem quickly and correctly without spending a fortune on trial and error. The quality of leak detection services can vary quite a bit, so it pays to do a little homework before you commit. Think of it as an investment in your pool’s health and your own peace of mind.

When you're weighing your options, focus on a few key areas: how accurate the method is, how easy it is to use, and what kind of support you can expect. A great service will be transparent about its methods and confident in its results. They should be able to explain what they’re doing and why, giving you a clear path to a solution. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a reliable partner to get your pool back in perfect shape.

Accuracy and Reliability

The most important quality in any leak detection method is its ability to find the leak—accurately. An incorrect diagnosis can lead to expensive, unnecessary tear-outs of your pool deck or liner. When vetting a professional service, start by checking online reviews and testimonials. What are other local pool owners saying? A history of positive feedback is a strong indicator of a company’s skill and dependability. A reliable company will use proven techniques to pinpoint the exact location of a leak, ensuring that any equipment repairs and servicing are targeted and effective. Don't be afraid to ask a company about their success rate and the technology they use.

Ease of Use and Key Features

If you’re starting with a DIY approach, you want a product that is straightforward and easy to handle. Simple methods like the dye test are great for beginners because they can help you confirm leaks around fittings, lights, and skimmers without any special equipment. When you’re looking at professional services, consider the range of tools they have at their disposal. A well-equipped technician will have multiple methods, from pressure testing plumbing lines to using sophisticated electronic listeners. This versatility means they can tackle any type of leak, no matter where it’s hiding. A company that offers comprehensive cleaning and maintenance services often has the experience to handle these issues efficiently.

Warranty, Support, and Customer Reviews

A reputable company will always stand behind its work. Before hiring anyone, ask if they offer a warranty on their leak detection services. This shows they are confident in their accuracy and committed to solving your problem. Customer support is just as important. You want a team that is responsive, professional, and willing to answer your questions. Again, customer reviews are your best friend here. They provide real-world insight into the company's honesty and efficiency. Look for feedback that mentions a smooth process from start to finish, as this often points to a company that values its customers and is prepared for complex jobs like full remodels and rehabs.

Common Myths About Pool Leak Detection

When you first suspect a pool leak, it’s easy to fall down a rabbit hole of online advice, DIY solutions, and conflicting information. Sorting through it all can feel overwhelming, and unfortunately, a lot of common "wisdom" about leak detection is outdated or just plain wrong. Following bad advice can lead to wasted time, money, and even more significant damage to your pool and property.

Let's clear the air and tackle some of the most persistent myths head-on. Understanding the truth behind these misconceptions will help you make a smarter, more confident decision about how to find and fix your leak. We’ll look at the real story behind those all-in-one DIY kits, why not all professional methods are the same, and what it really means to hire an expert you can trust. Getting this right from the start saves you a massive headache down the road.

The Truth About DIY Kit Accuracy

You’ve probably seen DIY leak detection kits online or at the pool supply store. They seem like a great deal—an affordable, simple fix in a box. While these kits can be a decent starting point for very obvious leaks, it's a myth that they are a reliable, catch-all solution. The truth is, their accuracy can be limited. A dye syringe might help you confirm a crack near a skimmer, but it’s not going to find a subtle leak in your underground plumbing or a tiny separation in your main drain. Relying solely on a basic kit can give you a false sense of security, leaving the real, more damaging leak to get worse.

Not All Testing Methods Are Created Equal

Another common myth is that any professional leak detection method will get the job done. Some companies might rely on just one or two basic techniques, like a simple dye or pressure test. While these methods have their place, their effectiveness can vary depending on the type and location of the leak. A truly thorough inspection involves a combination of strategies and advanced technology. Professionals use tools like electronic listening devices, thermal cameras, and hydrophones to pinpoint leaks with precision, whether they’re in the plumbing, the shell, or the equipment. The method should fit the problem, not the other way around.

Knowing When You Need a Professional

Perhaps the biggest myth is that any company with "leak detection" in its name offers the same level of service. The reality is that the skill, honesty, and effectiveness of leak detection companies vary widely. It’s crucial to do your homework. Before hiring anyone, check online reviews and ask about the specific equipment and methods they use. A trustworthy company will be transparent about its process. Finding a local team that specializes in equipment repairs and servicing ensures they not only find the leak but also have the expertise to fix it correctly, especially with the unique soil and weather conditions we have here in Colorado.

When to Call a Professional Leak Detector

While DIY methods are a fantastic starting point for troubleshooting, there are times when you need to call in an expert. Think of it this way: you can diagnose a simple cold, but you see a doctor for anything more serious. The same logic applies to your pool. A professional leak detector brings specialized equipment and years of experience that can save you time, money, and a massive headache. Ignoring a persistent or hidden leak can lead to much bigger problems, like damage to your pool’s structure, surrounding deck, or even your home's foundation.

When you’ve tried the bucket and dye tests without success, or if you suspect the leak is in your underground plumbing, it’s time to make the call. Professionals use non-invasive, high-tech methods like acoustic listeners and pressure testing to pinpoint the exact source of the leak without tearing up your backyard. At Rocky Mountain Aquacare, our certified technicians are trained to handle these complex issues efficiently. Our equipment repairs and servicing are designed to find the problem quickly and provide a lasting solution, so you can get back to enjoying your pool instead of worrying about it.

For Complex Leaks That Need an Expert Eye

Some leaks are just plain sneaky. They hide in places you can’t see, like inside the concrete shell of your pool or deep within the underground plumbing lines. Identifying the source of this kind of water intrusion is incredibly challenging without the right training and tools. A professional can spot subtle clues you might miss and has the expertise to diagnose issues that aren't obvious. If you’ve fixed visible issues but your water level is still dropping, an expert can determine if the problem lies with the pool's structure itself. This saves you from a frustrating guessing game and prevents you from making unnecessary—and costly—repairs.

When DIY Tools Aren't Enough

The dye test is great for finding a leak around a fitting or light, but what happens when the dye doesn’t lead you anywhere? DIY methods are effective for simple, visible leaks, but they have their limits. When a leak is in a pressurized pipe or is a slow seep from a tiny crack, basic tools just won't cut it. Professionals use advanced technology, like electronic listening devices that can hear water escaping from pipes underground. This level of precision is something a DIY kit can’t offer. Trusting a professional service ensures a more reliable and accurate diagnosis, getting to the root of the problem the first time.

Handling Colorado's Unique Pool Challenges

Living in Colorado means our pools face unique environmental stressors. The constant freeze-thaw cycles can be tough on pool shells and plumbing, creating cracks and breaks that are specific to our climate. The shifting soil can also put immense pressure on underground pipes. A local professional understands these regional challenges better than anyone. At Rocky Mountain Aquacare, our team has specific expertise in how Colorado’s weather affects pools and spas. We know what to look for and how to provide durable repairs and maintenance that stand up to our demanding environment, ensuring your pool stays in top condition year after year.

Choose the Right Leak Detection Solution for Your Pool

Now that you know the difference between a simple bucket test and a full-scale professional inspection, how do you decide which path to take? The right leak detection solution isn't one-size-fits-all. It depends on your specific pool, the signs you're seeing, and your own comfort level with tackling home repairs. Choosing the wrong method can waste time and money, while the right one gets your pool back to its best shape quickly and efficiently.

Think of it like this: you wouldn't use a sledgehammer to hang a picture frame. Similarly, you don't always need the most advanced technology for a simple, visible leak. On the other hand, a small DIY kit won't be much help for a major underground pipe issue. By considering a few key factors—the type of pool you have, the complexity of the suspected leak, and your budget—you can make an informed decision that saves you headaches down the road. Let's walk through how to pick the perfect approach for your situation.

Consider Your Pool Type and the Leak's Complexity

The first step is to look at your pool itself. Whether you have a vinyl liner, concrete, or fiberglass pool can influence where leaks are most likely to occur and how they're best found. For instance, a dye test is a fantastic and simple method for pinpointing leaks in specific spots, like a small tear in a liner or a crack in the plaster. It’s a versatile first step for many pool owners. However, if you suspect the leak is in your plumbing system or hidden from view, the problem becomes more complex. These kinds of leaks require a more technical approach that goes beyond a simple visual inspection.

Balance Your Budget with Long-Term Value

It’s always tempting to start with the most budget-friendly option, and DIY leak detection kits certainly fit that bill. They are user-friendly and inexpensive, but their biggest drawback is that they can be inaccurate and are often limited in scope. A cheap kit might help you find a very obvious leak, but it could easily miss a more serious one. Think about the long-term value. Investing in professional equipment repairs and servicing can save you a significant amount of money over time by accurately identifying the source of the problem right away, preventing wasted water and further damage to your property.

Match the Method to Your Specific Needs

Ultimately, the best method is the one that fits your unique situation. If you’ve performed a visual inspection and found a small, obvious crack near the skimmer, a simple dye test might be all you need. But if the bucket test confirms you're losing inches of water and you have no idea where it's going, it’s time for a different strategy. Professionals have an entire toolkit of techniques, from pressure testing plumbing lines to isolating different features of your pool to systematically find the source. Assessing your specific needs and being honest about your DIY skills will guide you to the most effective and efficient solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water loss is normal for a pool in Colorado? It’s a great question, especially with our dry climate. You can generally expect to lose about a quarter-inch of water per day to evaporation, maybe a bit more on hot and windy days. If you find yourself needing to add water more than once a week, or if you're consistently losing more than that quarter-inch daily, it’s a strong signal that you might be dealing with a leak rather than just evaporation.

What's the very first thing I should do if I suspect a leak? Before you start searching for cracks or calling for help, your best first move is the bucket test. It’s a simple and reliable way to confirm if your water loss is greater than normal evaporation. This quick test helps you know for sure if you have a problem on your hands, saving you from unnecessary worry or a premature search.

Can a tiny leak really be that big of a deal? Absolutely. It’s easy to dismiss a small leak, but over time it can cause serious issues. That constant trickle of water can erode the soil supporting your pool shell and deck, leading to structural cracks. It also dilutes your chemicals, making it more expensive to keep your water balanced, and puts extra strain on your pump. Addressing it early is always the smartest move.

If I hire a professional, will they have to dig up my yard to find the leak? This is a common fear, but you can relax. Reputable professionals use advanced, non-invasive technology to find leaks with incredible precision. They use tools like underwater microphones and electronic listeners to pinpoint the exact source of the problem, even if it's in a pipe buried deep under your deck. The goal is always to find the leak with minimal disruption to your property.

Is the cost of the repair included in the leak detection service fee? Typically, the initial fee for a professional service covers the investigation itself—the process of using specialized equipment and expertise to locate the source of the leak. Once the technician has found the problem, they will explain what the issue is and provide you with a separate, clear estimate for the cost of the actual repair.