Having a swimming pool in your backyard is a great way to enjoy hot summer days. However, an unlevel pool can cause many problems if left untreated. If you have an unlevel pool, you may be wondering how to level it without draining the water. In this article, we will discuss the causes of unlevel pools and different ways to level your pool without draining it.
Why Is Your Pool Unlevel?
Ground Shifting
One common cause of an unlevel swimming pool is ground shifting. This can occur when the soil underneath the pool settles or shifts due to changes in moisture levels or other environmental factors. The areas where the ground is shifting can cause the pool to become unlevel.
Liner Shifting
In some cases, an unlevel pool can also be caused by the liner shifting. Liner shifting can occur when the weight of the water in the pool causes the liner to move, resulting in an unlevel pool. If your pool is old, it may be time to replace the liner if shifting is a recurring problem.
Uneven Water Level
Another cause of an unlevel pool is an uneven water level. If the water level is higher on one side of the pool compared to the other, this can cause an unlevel pool. Make sure to measure the water level on both sides of the pool to ensure it is even.
What Happens If You Don’t Fix an Unlevel Pool?
Structural Damage
Leaving an unlevel pool untreated can result in structural damage to your swimming pool and deck area. This is especially true when it comes to an above-ground pool. The weight of the water in the pool can cause the pool walls to buckle or even collapse, resulting in significant damage to your property.
Equipment Issues
Another issue that can arise from an unlevel pool is equipment problems. Your pool pump and filter will not work efficiently if the pool is unlevel. This can cause long-term problems and can result in the need for costly repairs.
Poor Aesthetics
An unlevel pool can also be an eyesore in your backyard. It can make the pool look uneven and unattractive, making it less appealing to swim in. Fixing your pool will not only solve its functional issues but also make it visually appealing.
How to Level an Above-Ground Pool?
Measure the Unlevel Areas
The first step in leveling an above-ground pool is to measure the unlevel areas. Use a bubble level to determine how much the pool is off level so you can pinpoint the areas that need attention.
Add Sand to the Low Areas
After identifying the areas that are unlevel, add enough sand to the low areas to level them out. Start with a small amount of sand and work your way up, making sure to compact it as you go. Keep adding sand until the pool is perfectly level.
Use Pavers to Create a Level Surface
Another way to level your above-ground pool is by using pavers to create a level surface. Place the pavers under the pool legs on the low side of the pool until the pool is level. These pavers will keep the pool from shifting and help maintain its levelness over time.
How to Level an Intex Pool?
Drain the Pool
The first step in leveling an Intex pool is to drain the water out of it. This process can take a while depending on how much water is in the pool, so be patient. You may also want to consult the pool’s owner manual for specific draining instructions.
Remove and Re-Level the Ground
Once the water has been drained, remove the pool from the ground and begin to level the area where the pool previously sat. This may require adding soil or sand to level out any uneven ground. Use a bubble level to ensure that the area is level before reinstalling the pool.
Reinstall the Pool
After the ground has been leveled, reinstall the pool and refill it with water. Make sure to measure the water level on both sides of the pool to ensure it is even.
How to Level a Pool Without Draining It?
Use Water Tubes
You can level a pool without draining it by using water tubes. Fill the tubes with water and place them on the low side of the pool. The weight of the water in the tubes will help level the pool.
Add Sand to the Low Areas
If there are low areas on the ground around the pool, add sand to them to level it out. Start with a small amount of sand and then work your way up, making sure to compact it as you go. This method is great for fixing small areas that are only a couple of inches off level.
Adjust the Pool Walls
If the pool walls are not level, adjust them until they are. This can be done by loosening the bolts on the top rail and shifting the wall until it is level. Once it is level, retighten the bolts to hold it in place.
Conclusion
An unlevel pool can cause serious damage if left untreated. By identifying the cause of the unlevelness and using the appropriate method, you can level your pool without draining it and prevent any further problems. Remember to keep an eye on your pool and take care of any issues as soon as they arise to ensure your pool stays in great condition for years to come.
Q: How do you fix an unlevel pool without draining it?
A: Leveling an above ground pool without draining it can be a daunting task, but it is possible with the right tools and steps. Here are some tips to level your above ground pool without draining it.
Q: What are the things I need to consider before I try to level my pool with water?
A: First and foremost, ensure that the pool is not only filled with water but has been regularly maintained. Additionally, the pool liner should be in excellent condition and not be more than two inches larger than the walls of the pool.
Q: What are the tools I need to level my pool with water?
A: You’ll need a set of six adjustable jack stands, a level, a carpenters level or a straight board, a measuring tape, a shovel, and a hose.
Q: How do I start leveling my pool with water?
A: Begin by measuring the depth of the pool’s water level on all sides—the measurements should be similar, or the pool is uneven. Cut out the sod around the pool and dig the ground to level the pool. You may lift the pool first with a jack stand or let it stay on the ground with water.
Q: How do I know if my pool is level?
A: To ensure the pool is leveled, measure the water level again on all four sides. The water level to the pool wall distance on all sides should be the same or within an inch.
Q: What’s the process of leveling an above-ground pool with water?
A: You can add soil on the pool’s perimeter and pack it tightly until it’s level within an inch. Put the level on top of the pool to ensure it stays level as you work on the perimeter. Keep checking to see that the pool stays level and make adjustments when necessary.
Q: My pool is filled with gallons of water, and I think it is not level; what should I do?
A: You can level your pool with water by taking it out and refilling it, a complicated task. The best solution is to level your ground pool without draining it.
Q: I have an easy set pool, can I level it without draining?
A: Yes, you can level easy set pools without draining them. However, you should not fill your pool above 80% capacity to prevent tipping over and injuries.
Q: I have a round above ground pool that is not level, how can I fix it?
A: You can level your round above ground pool without draining by using the same steps used for above ground pools to level them with water. Ensure you have all the necessary tools for the job.
Q: How long will it take to level an above ground pool?
A: Depending on the size of your pool, the process may take a couple of hours or several days. The most crucial thing to remember is to take your time, as rushing may lead to a poorly leveled pool that may cause injury, collapse, or damage to your pool structure.
