cutting pool wall from 27' to 24'

by Ken
(Virginia)

Our local zoning is restricting the size of my pool to 24' based on lot size. I just obtained a used 27' pool not knowing the ordinance. The Aqualeader pool seems viable by leaving two segments out, but I would have to shorten the wall by 9'.

The trick would be bending and folding the cut end of the wall into triple thickness to handle the sheer-strength of the bolted seam.

Has this ever been done? Do you think it is doable?

Hi Ken, I have cut down quite a few pools over the years. On the wall joint I simply overlap the wall about 8” and run three rows of nuts and bolts. I start with the top, middle and bottom on the edge that already has holes predrilled and then I just start drilling holes and inserting bolts. I have never had a problem with this method.

When changing the size of a round pool you are also changing the radius. This means your bottom rails should be bent at a slightly different arc. You may get by with the ones you have by taking out a couple but I have always used a new set for the size pool I am trying to make.

The top rails will also fit different. They will be spaced different and will require different holes for putting the screws into. This usually is not a big problem, just some trial and error. Be sure to completely assemble the pool before attempting to install the liner. This way you know that everything works and fits correctly.