How To Keep An Above Ground Pool From Collapsing?
Ever seen a “collapsible swimming pool” collapse for real? It’s not pretty—unless you're into muddy waterfalls, panicked dads, and ruined barbecues.
Short answer? Make sure your pool sits on level ground, is built properly, and gets regular TLC.
Want to avoid a summer disaster and keep your pool standing tall? Let’s dive into the common causes of collapse—and what you can do to prevent them.
Understanding the Causes of Pool Collapse
Improper Ground Preparation (uneven, unstable base)
This one’s a biggie.
Set your pool on soft or uneven ground, and it’s like building a house on jelly. Over time, one side sinks more than the other, putting uneven stress on the walls. That’s when the buckling starts—and soon enough, your “relaxing swim” turns into a mop-up job.
Before you even think about filling the pool, check that the area is level and compact. No shortcuts.
Structural Integrity Issues (damaged walls, rusty components)
If your pool walls are rusting or starting to bend, they’re waving a red flag.
Rust eats away at metal, making it brittle. Bent or sagging parts can collapse under pressure—especially when the pool’s full.
Keep an eye out for bulges, dents, or any parts that don’t look “right”. A quick repair now can save you from a major mess later.
Water Pressure and Overfilling
Pools aren’t designed to be bursting at the seams.
Too much water and the walls can give way. Too little, and the liner might wrinkle or collapse inward because the water isn’t holding it in place.
Think of it like a balloon—it needs just the right amount of air. Same goes for your pool. Check your water level regularly, especially after heavy rain.
External Forces (impacts, strong winds, frost heave)
Windy weather? Rogue footballs? Frost creeping into the ground during winter?
All these things can mess with your pool’s structure. A sudden gust or a bump from garden tools might seem harmless—but it can knock parts loose or weaken joints.
And in winter, frost heave (where frozen ground pushes up) can lift and shift your pool base. That’s why prep and protection matter year-round.
Essential Steps for a Stable Installation
Meticulous Site Preparation
Levelling the Ground Accurately
Get a long spirit level, a tape measure, and a bit of patience.
Walk the area. Check it from all sides. If there’s a slope, sort it—don’t assume “it’ll do”.
A slightly wonky base might not seem like a big deal at first. But once you add thousands of litres of water? That lean becomes a collapse waiting to happen.
Ensuring a Firm and Compacted Base (sand, gravel, concrete pad)
No soft, squishy ground.
Lay down a solid, compacted base—think sand, gravel, or even a concrete slab. Make sure it’s flat and sturdy before anything goes on top.
Picture your pool like a cake. If the base crumbles, the whole thing falls apart.
Removing Sharp Objects and Debris
Rocks, sticks, roots… get rid of them.
Anything sharp can tear your liner. Even small lumps under the pool can create pressure points that damage the structure over time.
A quick rake or inspection now saves you a liner replacement later.
Correct Assembly and Structural Reinforcement
Following Manufacturer's Instructions Precisely
Tempted to skip a few steps? Don’t.
The instructions might be long-winded, but they’re there for a reason. Every bolt, bracket, and connector plays a part in keeping the pool upright.
If it says “tighten” or “double-check”, do exactly that. It's not IKEA furniture—you want it safe, not just standing.
Proper Installation of Wall Connectors and Uprights
Think of these as your pool’s skeleton.
If connectors or uprights are wobbly or misaligned, the whole frame’s at risk. Use a rubber mallet or gentle tap where needed—but make sure everything’s snug and secure.
Don’t rush. Take the time to get it right.
Using Stabiliser Bars and Top Rails Correctly
Stabiliser bars and top rails don’t just look neat—they hold the pool together.
They spread the pressure evenly, especially when water levels shift with use. If they’re not installed properly, your pool loses structural strength.
Fit them well. Double-check alignment. Your future self will thank you.
Ongoing Maintenance for Long-Term Stability
Regular Inspections
Checking for Rust, Corrosion, or Damage to Walls and Frame
Do a lap around your pool every few days.
Look for rust spots, dents, or anything that seems “off”. If you spot a dodgy patch early, you’ve got time to sort it before it becomes a disaster.
Rust can spread fast—especially after a rainy spell. Don’t ignore it.
Inspecting Liner for Tears or Bulges
A bulging liner isn’t a pool flex—it’s a warning.
It might mean water is getting where it shouldn’t, or the liner’s shifted. Tiny tears can turn into gaping holes if left too long.
Catch them early. Patch kits are cheap. Replacing a liner? Not so much.
Water Management
Maintaining Correct Water Level (avoiding overfilling or draining too much)
Your pool has a sweet spot.
Too high, and you’re straining the walls. Too low, and there’s not enough support from the water.
Keep an eye after heavy rain or if the kids have been splashing like maniacs. Top up or drain as needed.
Ensuring Proper Drainage Around the Pool
Standing water near your pool’s base is a silent saboteur.
It softens the ground, encourages erosion, and can unbalance the structure. Make sure your garden drains well and direct run-off away from the pool.
A bit of landscaping can go a long way here.
Winterisation and Environmental Protection
Correctly Winterising the Pool (avoiding ice damage)
When the cold hits, don’t just throw a cover over and hope for the best.
Lower the water to a safe level. Clean everything thoroughly. Remove pumps and filters if needed.
Ice expands. If it pushes against full walls or blocked pipes, something’s going to crack.
Protecting from Extreme Weather (wind, heavy snow)
Winter storms and snow aren’t pool-friendly.
Use a solid, tight-fitting winter cover—and check it after storms. Clear snow buildup before it gets too heavy.
And in windy areas, make sure everything’s anchored down. No one wants to find their pool cover halfway across the lawn.
Final Thought:
An above ground pool is a brilliant way to enjoy summer with your family. But it’s not a “set and forget” setup. Take the time to install it properly, inspect it often, and treat it like the investment it is.
That way, your pool stays safe, stable, and splash-ready for years to come.
Have you checked out our other posts?
Are Above Ground Pools Hard To Maintain?
Are Above Ground Pools Dangerous?
Do Above Ground Pools Break Easily?
What Are The Risks Of Above Ground Pools?
What Not To Do With An Above Ground Pool?
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