How Often Do Above-Ground Pools Collapse?

For homeowners and pool enthusiasts alike, understanding the risks associated with these popular swimming pools is crucial. Above-ground pools offer a convenient and affordable option for enjoying a refreshing dip in the comfort of our backyard. Their structural pattern can be a cause for concern. While they may provide hours of fun and relaxation, the possibility of collapse raises important safety considerations.

So how often do above-ground pools collapse? The frequency of above-ground pool collapses depends on various factors. Such as the quality of construction, and maintenance, and external influences such as extreme weather conditions. In this article, we will explore the causes behind above-ground pool collapses, discuss common warning signs to watch out for, and provide valuable tips to prevent such disasters. Through this discussion, we will be able to handle such a situation and get better results out of our above-ground pool usage for years.

Key Takeaways

• The above-ground pools collapse because of several reasons and that determines how often they might collapse.
• Ensuring the proper installation of the above-ground pool is important so that the pool does not collapse on itself.
• Understanding the reasons for the collapse, knowing the methods of protection, and following some easy tips can help prevent your above-ground pool from collapsing.

Frequency At Which The Above-Ground Collapse

The above-ground pools collapse after a certain period of time because of aging, they usually collapse because of the lack of care and maintenance, they may also collapse if the selection of the materials was not right, they may collapse from natural calamities, and if there was excess chlorine on the pool. They tend to oxidize from these causes and they are going to collapse sooner than their life expectancy. If there is an uneven ground level of the pool because the soil is absorbing too much water from the pool, it will collapse immediately. If a heavy object or severe wind storm is happening, the pool will lose its ground and it will collapse.

Especially in winter when there is heavy snowing, snow will form into ice and icicles which are heavy objects, even if there is a cover over the pool, these heavy objects will destroy the structure of the pool and the pool will collapse in no time. If we are installing our pool in summer, we might have to lose it in winter because of natural consequences. If there is a tear in the liner, the constant watering of the pool will not help, the pool ground will have unnecessary excess water, and metal plates may get displaced, in this case, the pool will collapse soon. if there is an electric pole nearby, the fallen electric pole will electrocute the pool and this will cause damage to the pool, in that situation, the pool will collapse, too. The same goes for a large tree too, a fallen large tree will destroy the structure of the pool.

The above-ground pools usually stay for 10-20 years. The collapse of the above-ground pool varies by installation, material quality, maintenance, etc. Although, these qualities also do not qualify a longer lifespan of this pool, because they are very prone to rusting. If maintenance is done properly, it can last for 40 years and above, but if maintenance is done poorly, it seems to last not more than 5 years.

Some people also prefer steel above-ground pools which are less expensive, although their liner may need replacements very often. If the installation is not done properly, they tend to break down. They may also break down from oxidization or rust. Sometimes they also need servicing for different parts of the pool, if this servicing is not done properly, they will break down easily. This kind of servicing usually takes place within 2 to 6 years.

Proper Installation of the Above-Ground Pool To Not Collapse

A good installation of the above-ground pool will determine the lifespan of the pool. The above-ground pools require less preparation work than the in-ground pool. The kits for the installation of the above-ground pools can be bought online or from the big store. Usually, this kit has installation instructions that help in building the pool.

1. First and foremost, we need to know how big of a pool we want and we should avoid any kind of overhead or underground power lines, trees, or poles around it. Before installing it, we may require permission from local authorities.
2. The above-ground pools may require electricity, so before installing them, an electrician should make sure the ground has sufficient electricity.
3. Before installing the pool, it is necessary to mark the ground with proper measurements, it can be done with chalk or by rope and gauge meters.
4. After that, it is necessary to clean the pool-measured area. Leveling off the ground is a vital part of this installation, or else, the pool will collapse. Later, we will install a bottom ring that will go around the circumference and hold the walls. For the longevity of the pool, it is required to install a patio block under each plate, then we have to put sand inside the bottom ring.
5. Attaching pool walls is a crucial part as they come in metal sheets and we have to place them inside the metal tracks, one has to hold one end of the sheet and the other person will place the walls.
6. Once the walls are secured, we will need to seam down the two ends with duct tape. Installing the wall supports is needed for the stability of the pool.
7. Before the installation of the liner, the leveling of the sand is needed which can be done either by using a rake. Before the installation of the liners, we have to make sure, all of the measurements are in the right place. We have to spread the liner in the middle of the pool, letting go of any bubbles and wrinkles and not letting them tear the liner. We may need another helping hand in this installation.
8. Once the liner is installed, we can fill the pool with water. Before installing the filter and pump, it is better to stick with the instructions from the manufacturers, as they require special space which is called the filter and pump bed.
9. We can install a ladder by the top rail and support wall. The final step is checking for any leakage, if nothing is wrong, then we can add chemicals to the pool and start using it.

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Major Reasons Why Above-Ground Pools Collapse

While they are able to last a long time, there are several reasons why the above-ground pools collapse. So let’s take a closer look at what are some of the major reasons for them.

• Rust: If the pools are exposed to rust oxidation or minor damages, it is better to replace them as soon as possible.
• Inactivity and aging: If we not using the pool for a longer time, it is better that we disassemble it and restore it, otherwise, it will collapse due to inactivity and other natural causes. After a certain period, the above-ground pool will collapse because of aging.
• Overfilling: Overfilling the pool may cause a tear in the liner, so it is recommended to know the water capacity of the pool or fill it halfway through the pool.
• Uneven ground: When installing the pool, we should make sure the ground is even because an uneven surface will put uneven pressure on the pool and then the pool will be susceptible to breaking easily.
• Wrinkles or bubbles: While doing the installation, we have to make sure there are no wrinkles or bubbles in the liner, because a sudden tear in the liner may ruin the installation.
• Improper assembly of metal: During installation, we have to make sure that the metals are assembled securely. Otherwise, you will face an above-ground that will collapse on itself.
• Exposure to the environment: The above-ground pools are exposed to external materials as a result they face frame corrosion, thinning of liners, etc.
• Winter season: During the winter season or rainy season, the pool might get frozen or overfilled which may cause collapsing of the pool.

Protection From The Collapse Of The Above-Ground Pool

Now that we have seen why an above-ground pool can collapse, it is equally important to make sure that we take the necessary steps to prevent that from happening! So let’s take a look at some of the methods to protect the above-ground pool from collapse:

• Careful material choice: When choosing materials for the pool, we should find the finest materials for our pool, as there are five kinds of materials available in the market for the frames, such as steel frame, resin frame, hybrid frame, aluminum frame, optimum frame, they differ in quality and in prices.
• Pool covers: During winter or rainy seasons, we should use sturdy or jet covers for the pool. This can also help in making sure there is no unsupervised use of the pool by children, animals, or neighbors that could possibly weaken the pool structure.
• Correct water level: We should not overfill the pool, the water level keeps the structure of the pool intact, and overfilling it may damage the structure.
• Active use: We should use the pool regularly, because due to inactivity the pool may become slippery which may cause uncalled accidents.
• Regular inspection and maintenance: We should regularly do servicing of the pools, so that, no part of the pool faces any damage.
• Proper chemical usage: We should use the right chemicals to inhibit the growth of algae. This makes sure that the lining of the pool remains in good condition. For the chlorination of the pool, we should choose the right chemicals.

5 Collapse Prevention Tips For Above-Ground Pool

Here are some common tips to prevent the collapse of the above-ground pool:

1. Checking for maintenance regularly will prevent any damage to the parts of the pool which will ensure the longer longevity of the pool.
2. Keeping it covered may prevent any growth of insects such as mosquitos, etc. It will also help to minimize the pollution of the water.
3. When it is needed, we should call a professional to check for unevenness in the bottom part of the pool which will prevent it from collapsing.
4. By not putting heavy materials on the top rails or on the cover, we will be able to prevent further damage.
5. We can put fences around the pool to prevent any accidents.

With these tips, you can make sure that your above-ground has less chance of collapsing!

FAQs

1. Are above-ground pools strong?

The pools of steel frame are strong. The structure of the frame holds the durability of the walls and also the bottom part of the pool.

2. Will an above-ground pool collapse if not level?

If leveling is not done properly, the pool will buckle causing damage to the liners and walls. This will cause property damage, and after that, the pool will collapse.

3. Are above-ground pools safe?

The above-ground pools have more shallow ground than in-ground pools, people and children may get hurt while jumping into the pool, so, its safety is still a concern for many people.

4. Is the above-ground pool permanent?

The above-ground pools are not permanent, they are usually made for fun and relaxation while the in-ground pools are permanent, as a result, they add value to the property.

Final Thoughts

From the above discussion, it is certain that, the above-ground pools need special care from collapsing. Any structural damage may also damage its surroundings, so, we should always check for any disassembled part to repair it immediately. When doing any reinstallation, we should always keep the manufacturer’s guide in our hands and if it is not possible for us to reassemble it by ourselves, we should hire professionals. So, it can be concluded by saying that, proper maintenance can increase the lifespan of an above-ground pool.

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