An uneven above ground pool deck is more than just an eyesore; it is a safety hazard that compromises the structural integrity of your investment. Over time, the ground beneath your pool can settle unevenly due to soil erosion, frost heave, or poor initial installation. This misalignment creates excessive pressure on the walls and frame, leading to cracks, leaks, and even collapse if left unaddressed. Releveling your pool is a critical maintenance task that restores balance, extends the lifespan of the structure, and ensures a safe environment for swimming and recreation.
Assessing the Severity of the Misalignment
Before you grab tools, you must accurately diagnose the problem. Not all unevenness requires major intervention; sometimes, minor adjustments to the water level or coping stones can suffice. However, significant deviations demand a full relevel. To assess the situation, place a long straightedge or level across the top rails of the pool walls. Observe the gap between the straightedge and the deck to determine the slope. You should also inspect the walls for any new cracks or bulges, as these indicate that the structure is under stress and needs immediate attention.
The Dangers of Ignoring an Uneven Pool
- Structural Failure: Uneven weight distribution can cause walls to bow or snap.
- Water Leakage: Gaps between the liner and wall panels create constant leaks.
- Safety Risks: A slippery, uneven deck increases the likelihood of falls.
- Equipment Damage: Pumps and filters work harder when the skimmer is out of the water.
The Complete Releveling Process
Releveling an above ground pool involves excavating the soil beneath the low side, lowering the structure, and supporting it with a stable base. This process requires patience and precision to avoid damaging the liner or frame. You will need to drain the pool below the lowest wall clip, which allows the structure to move freely. Always check local regulations regarding draining water, as some municipalities require it to be directed into the storm sewer rather than the street or yard.
Step-by-Step Execution
Begin by removing the coping stones to access the top rail. Next, install vertical support posts, known as shores, against the low wall section. Using a heavy-duty jack, gently lift the wall to the correct height while monitoring with the level. Once the pool is even, pack compacted gravel or sand into the excavated area to create a solid cradle. Finally, carefully lower the wall back into place, ensuring the tracking system aligns perfectly before replacing the coping and filling the pool.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Professional results require professional equipment. While a basic relevel can be done with a rented jack and strong helpers, the right tools make the job safer and faster. You will need heavy-duty lumber for bracing, a high-capacity floor jack, and a variety of levels. Having extra base material like crushed stone or compactable sand on hand is essential for creating a durable foundation that prevents future sinking.
| Tool | Purpose | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Floor Jack | Lifts the wall vertically | Multiple bottle jacks |
| Spirit Level | Checks horizontal and vertical alignment | Line level |
| Shovel | Excavates soil | Garden trowel (for small adjustments) |
| Crowbar | Removes old coping and stakes | Standard pry bar |
When to Call a Professional
There are scenarios where a DIY project crosses the line into a danger zone. If your pool exhibits severe wall failure, significant rust penetration on the frame, or involves a large above ground model over twenty feet in diameter, hiring a specialist is the safest option. Experts have the industrial shoring equipment and engineering knowledge to relevel a pool without causing catastrophic damage to the structure. The cost of a professional job is often offset by the prevention of a total rebuild.
Maintaining Level Stability
Once the pool is back in its proper position, ongoing maintenance is the only way to ensure it stays that way. Check the grade of the deck annually, especially after heavy rains or freeze-thaw cycles. If you notice the ground settling, add shims under the tracks or inject gravel into the voids immediately. Consistent monitoring of water levels and wall plumbness allows you to catch minor shifts before they become major structural issues requiring another full relevel.
