Whether you’re a first-time pool owner or have been managing an inground pool for years, having an unlevel pool can be extremely frustrating. Fortunately, fixing this issue is simpler than you may think!
In this blog post, we will discuss the steps on how to fix an unlevel inground pool so that it can once again provide enjoyable experiences for friends and family alike. So if your in-ground swimming pool suddenly looks lopsided or has developed a tilt, read on to learn how easy it is to get things back up to par.
Can You Do It Yourself?
This is a job that you can certainly tackle on your own, but it may be wise to seek professional help if you are unsure of the steps involved. There are tools and techniques that need to be used correctly in order to ensure an even surface and level a pool, so having someone with experience will give you peace of mind.
But with proper guidance, you can do it yourself. Doing it yourself may save you some money and give you a sense of satisfaction.
What Will You Need?
You will need a few materials and tools to properly level your in-ground pool. These include:
- A shovel (or power trencher) to move the ground around
- Sand or soil to fill in any depressions
- A level to measure the pool’s surface
- A long wooden board (or other straight edges) is placed across the shallow and deep ends of the pool to check for dips or humps.
- Landscape fabric,
- Sand or paver base material, and
- A spirit level. You may also want to purchase
- Leveling blocks if the pool is not even all around.
Make sure to have a bucket of water (or some other source) on hand to help you keep track of the pool’s moisture levels during the leveling process. This will allow for more accurate measurements and reduce the chances of making mistakes.
10 Steps on How to Fix an Unlevel Inground Pool?
Step 1: Take Measurement
Measure and record the pool’s surface with a level to identify any high or low spots. Right measurement is key to repairing the pool. So, remember to be precise when taking the measurements.
Step 2: Identify Problem Areas
Once you have identified the high and low spots of your inground pool, you can start to determine what needs to be done in order to level it out. Look for dips or humps that need fixing. Identified problem areas need to be addressed. It will help you to fix the problem easily.
Step 3: Excavate Problem Areas
Using a shovel or power trencher, begin removing the soil from the low spots and filling in the high spots. Be sure not to dig too deep, or you may end up with an even bigger problem. Keep in mind that the goal is to create an even surface for your pool. Try to avoid digging in the same spot too much, as it may cause an uneven finish.
Step 4: Fill Problem Areas
Once the problem areas have been excavated, you can begin filling them in with sand or soil. Make sure to tamp down and level each area before moving on to the next one. This will help ensure that your pool remains as level as possible once everything is complete.
Step 5: Place Landscape Fabric
Once all the problem areas are filled, place landscape fabric over the entire surface of your pool. This will help keep the sand or soil in place and prevent it from shifting while you are leveling your pool.
Step 6: Fill In Pavers or Sand
Once the landscape fabric is in place, fill in the entire pool area with pavers or sand. Make sure to level each layer as you go along, and use a spirit level to check for evenness. It is an important step to make your pool as level as possible.
Step 7: Place Leveling Blocks
If the pool is not even all around, you may want to consider placing leveling blocks around its perimeter. This will help ensure that each side of your pool has an even surface. Placing the leveling block may take some time, so remember to be patient.
Step 8: Re-check Levelness
Once all the steps are completed, you will want to re-check your work with a spirit level. Make sure that the surface is as even and level as possible before moving on. Re-checking will help you to avoid costly mistakes.
Step 9: Refill with Water
Once the pool is level, refill it with water and let it sit for 24 hours. This will give the ground underneath time to settle and ensure that your pool is leveled properly. Wait for two days before getting back into the pool.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Congratulations! You have now successfully leveled your in-ground pool. Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. So grab a towel, jump in, and bask in the feeling of satisfaction that comes from achieving your goal.
10 Safety Measures to Follow
- Make sure to wear protective clothing, including a face mask, gloves, and safety glasses. The protective wear will protect you from potential hazards.
- Make sure to inspect the pool for any loose equipment or unstable surfaces before beginning the job. Inspection is essential in order to identify any potential risks and areas of concern.
- Have a professional inspect the pool beforehand. A trained expert will be able to assess the situation better than you could and provide advice on how best to proceed with the job safely.
- Ensure that all tools are in working condition before using them. Damaged or faulty tools can increase the risk of injury.
- Make sure that you have all the necessary equipment and materials before beginning work. This includes a level, sand, soil, and other necessary supplies.
- Don’t stand on or near any unstable structures while working in the pool area. Unstable structures can collapse without warning and may result in serious injury.
- Have a spotter nearby to help you while working on the pool area. This will reduce the risk of accidents, such as falling into the pool or dropping equipment into it.
- Make sure that all power tools are unplugged and stored away safely when not in use. It is an important precaution to reduce the risk of electrocution.
- Don’t work alone when adjusting or repairing the pool area. Working with a partner can help you complete the job more efficiently and safely.
- Always take regular breaks from working on the pool area to ensure that you remain alert and focused while doing so.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Will It Cost to Fix an Unlevel Inground Pool?
The cost of fixing an unlevel inground pool will depend on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the job, the materials used, and any additional services required. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It’s best to consult with a professional for an accurate estimate.
What Are Some Common Causes of an Unlevel Inground Pool?
Common causes of an unlevel inground pool include ground movement due to shifting soil, tree roots, or other obstructions in the ground, water loss due to leaks or evaporation, and incorrect installation. It’s important to inspect the area for these potential problems before attempting to adjust the pool on your own.
How Can I Tell If My Pool Is Unlevel?
To tell if your pool is unlevel, place a level along the edge of the pool and look for any low or high spots. You can also use a tape measure to check out the depths at multiple points around the perimeter of your pool. If the depths are inconsistent, then the pool is likely unlevel.
Additionally, if you notice any areas of standing water or pools collecting around the edge, this could also be a sign of an unlevel surface.
How Long Does It Take to Fix an Unlevel Inground Pool?
The amount of time it takes to fix an unlevel inground pool will depend on the size and complexity of the job. On average, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days or even weeks, depending on how much work needs to be done. If you’re unsure about the process, it’s best to contact a professional for an accurate estimate.
Conclusion
There are many factors that can cause an inground pool to become unlevel, but fortunately, there are just as many ways to fix the problem. It will take some time and effort, but by following the steps on how to fix an unlevel inground pool, you can have a level and safe pool in no time.
Be sure to use the right tools and materials, as well as take safety precautions when working near or around water. And if you’re ever unsure about how to correctly adjust an inground pool, always consult with a professional for help.
With a little investigation and elbow grease, you should be able to get your pool back into tip-top shape in no time. Do you have any other tips for fixing an unlevel inground pool? Share them with us in the comments below!
