FAIRVIEW PARK, Ohio - Less than a decade after its opening, the Gemini Center's natatorium roof is leaking with the city planning an estimated $1.5 million fix to begin this spring.

"We have some warm air condensing on the wall cavities that caused some leaking of the pool roof," Fairview Park Mayor Eileen Patton said. "Air pressure, airflow and cold weather climates were factors in our decision to study the roof issue in 2016 by enlisting the expertise of Construction Resources as natatorium roof issues can be caused by different factors."

The Mayor said the city spent $5,900 for the Construction Resources study, which when completed earlier this year recommended replacing the nine-year-old roof that spans the natatorium, as well as a portion of the fitness area.

"What happens when it's cold outside and warm heat gets into those space is it condensates and turns to water," Fairview Park Director of Public Service and Development Shawn Leininger said. "It's coming back into the building, and also sitting up on the roof, which could deteriorate the wood deck."

In terms of paying for roof replacement, Fairview Park Finance Director Greg Cingle said the city's options include using general fund money, as well as taking out short-term notes or general obligation bonds.

"We're still in the early stages right now," Cingle said. "That will be determined once we get further down the road."

Once approved by Fairview Park City Council, Leininger said the project would go out to bid in early spring and be completed over the summer.

"From what we know, the pool can remain open during construction," Leininger said. "We're not going to take the entire roof off. The wood deck, we believe, is intact and will remain in place."

Patton said what's troubling is the age of the Gemini Center in relation to its natatorium roof.

"Research states that a natatorium roof should have a longer life span that a decade," Patton said. "Two other West Shore pool centers had roofing problems as well before reaching the 20-year mark.

"One was a similar problem to the Gemini Center pool. Another was due to an improperly designed vapor barrier. Currently we are reviewing the design, construction and drawings details to determine what would cause leaks. We have consulted with Vickers Law Group of Westlake to review this material."