Above Ground Pool Wall Has Buckled

by Bryan Smith
(Schaghticoke)

I have a pool that was winterized the same way we have in the past, and the pool is only 4 years old.

Drained below the return line, put a big air pillow in the middle, and covered with a pool cover.

The outside of the pool: we have the ground sloping away from the liner, with river stone covering about 2 feet outside the diameter of the pool.

This year, moments ago, I have notice that the pool cover is ripped, due to excessive snow covered I guess, and the sides of the pool are buckled almost all the way around .

In some places the wall has pulled out of the u track along the top rail.

Looking into the pool, I see the water has frozen solid, ( Schaghticoke, NY), however the ice has shrunk in, such that it is at least 4-5 inches away from the sides.

1. what do I do? and how? if anything.
2. what caused this?

thank you,

Bryan Smith



Hi Bryan. I am getting a lot of reports about wall damage due to the harsh winter. I would need to see pictures in order to know how bad the damage is and exactly what caused it.

Once the ground and the water have thawed, and the pool filled, there is a good chance the pool will push back into shape. The crease may not come completely out but the pool might be OK. Taking out the crease might mean lowering the water level, pulling the liner back, and working on it with a hammer and a piece of 2x4.