Sink Hole At Pool Edge

by T
(Toms River N.J.)

We have a 21' round above ground pool. I noticed an 8" x 6" sink hole along the side of the pool wall. It is about 2" deep.

Should I try to push the sand back in or will that cause it to cave in. What should I do without having to drain the pool?




Hi T. A sink hole in the pool cove area is something to really keep an eye on. Something has to have been the cause of the sink hole and it is usually a hole in the liner. You should be checking for wet spots around the outside of the pool, checking the pool water level and examining the area with goggles.

If you do find a hole it should be patched. This can be done underwater.

It is also possible that the cove washed out under the bottom rail. If this is the case make sure the outside of the pool is well packed with dirt, or other landscaping, to prevent further wash out.

As far as the sink hole itself goes, make sure the liner is not resting on the pool frame. It should not be in contact with the bottom rails or footplates. If it is I would drain the pool ASAP. A tear in the liner at this area of the pool causes major blowouts.

If the sink hole does not have a hole in it, and is not resting on the pool frame, you may want to just keep a close eye on it. If it does not get any worse it's probably OK left as it is. It is very difficult to try to force sand or dirt up into the cove from the outside of the pool, and this could easily further the damage.

If repairs need to be made, be careful not to drain to much water out of the pool. An empty liner will shrink very quickly. Leave a few inches in the bottom to hold the liner in place and keep it from shrinking. It is also a goo idea to drain, repair and refill all in the same day.