Pool Wall Bulged

by Gary
(Smithfield,RI)

My 21' steel wall above ground pool's wall has bulged out and blew out the liner due to ice in the pool. The bulge is out about 1", about 1" from bottom edge in a U shape around the whole pool.

Which would be better to do, just put in a new liner, try to flatten out the bulge all around the pool or simply invert the wall leaving the weak portion at the top where there is less pressure?



Hi Gary. You do not want to invert the sidewall, this puts the skimmer area at the bottom and that's not a good idea.

I would hammer the wall flat and reinforce the inside with some aluminum, or steel, flashing. Some 12" or 16" wide coil stock, like can be bought at most hardware stores can be used. If you insert it into the bottom track inside the pool wall it will stay in place pretty well. The top edge can then be Duct taped to cover any sharp edges.

This method of wall repair also works well for rust damage.

Pool wall damage like this can be fixed, it just takes a little time and patience. In a worst case scenario the wall could be completely removed, laid out on concrete, and hammered flat. It could then be re-installed and be good as new. Well, almost good as new. You may need to sand and paint to prevent rust in the future. You may also need to reinforce the inside with flashing. But using good judgement you can expect many more years out of your pool.