Fiberglass pools are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners due to their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. However, one concern that may come to mind is whether or not a fiberglass pool can pop out of the ground. Pool popping, or hydrostatic pressure, can occur in any type of pool.
You read that right: yes, fiberglass pools can pop out of the ground, but it can happen with any pool type. In fact fiberglass are less susceptible to this than concrete pools or any other type of pool.
The actual likelihood of a fiberglass pool popping out of the ground is low as its not very common, but indicators of the issue will show themselves which is why it’s best to be aware of them. As long as the pool is properly installed and maintained, there should be no cause for concern. That’s why it’s so important to hire a professional pool company so you know your pool is built to last.
What Causes Pools to Pop Out of the Ground?
Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure is the force exerted by water against the walls and floor of the pool. It’s also the main reason why pools pop out of the ground. If the water level in the ground surrounding the pool rises too high, it can create a pressure imbalance that causes the pool to pop out of the ground. This is related to ground water and is more likely to happen in areas with high water tables or heavy rainfall. To avoid this you’ll need to keep ground water low and possibly install a de-watering system or an anchoring system. It’s more likely to happen to concrete pools but if you’re wondering what the difference between the two is read our post about fiberglass vs gunite pools.
Improper Installation
If a fiberglass pool is not installed properly, it can be more susceptible to popping out of the ground. For example, if the pool is not level or if the soil is not compacted properly before installation, it can shift or settle over time and cause the pool to pop out of the ground.
Drainage Issues
Poor drainage can also contribute to a fiberglass pool popping out of the ground. Going back to ground water buildup – if water is not able to drain away from the pool properly, it can build up around the pool and create a pressure imbalance that causes the pool to pop out of the ground. Sometimes it can be necessary to install a custom drain system.
Signs That Your Fiberglass Pool May Be Popping Out of the Ground (Check These)
1. Visible Bulges or Bumps
There might be bumps in the pools surface. This is due to the hydrostatic pressure being exerted on the outside of the pool in the ground by the ground water. If the pressure on the pool itself is too much, it can bugle, pop out of the ground, or crack.
2. Cracks in the Pool
There might be visible cracks in the pools surface or the deck surrounding the pool. These cracks form due to the movement your pool makes as the pressure on it rises. If there are more cracks, there may be more pressure than it can handle (and it might be close to breaking). You should get cracks inspected right away, especially if there are multiple or are forming quickly.
3. Water Level Changes
If you see the water level fluctuate in your pool, it can be another sign that your fiberglass pool might pop out soon. If the pool rises out of the ground (even a little bit) it can cause water level changes enough for you to notice.
4. Uneven Pool Deck
If you notice that your pool deck is uneven or its level has shifted, your pool might be rising out of the ground already. This is an exaggerated case but is an actual possibility if your pool is having pressure issues. You’ll want to get the issue resolved before it causes more problems in your backyard.
How to Prevent Your Pool from Popping Out of the Ground
Talk to a pool professional about adding a drainage system to keep ground water from rising up too much. Not all pools are affected the same by hydrostatic pressure so your pool might be unaffected. That’s why we recommend talking to a fiberglass pool company. You don’t want to do any unnecessary work on your pool that might cause complex issues down the line.
Some options you can take are installing a drainage system, keeping your pool full of water, maintaining the water level (not too low or high), and monitoring the soil around your pool. These are the best ways to keep your fiberglass pool from popping out.
What to Do If Your Fiberglass Pool Has Popped Out of the Ground
Not to worry if your pool HAS popped out of the ground. Call your pool repair, pool service, or emergency service pool company to come out and take a look at it. You’ll want to get help as soon as possible. The next thing your pool company will do is drain the pool, lift it, and begin repairs. This can include repairing the ground, repairing cracks in the pool, reinstalling the pool, and refilling the pool once more. You WILL have to hire a professional pool company for these steps since you won’t be able to lift the pool on your own without the proper equipment.
In most cases, you’ll want to have fiberglass pool remodeling or fiberglass pool resurfacing done on the pool/pool shell since it may be damaged. Your pool professionals can help you come up with the best plan of action.
Conclusion
So, it is possible for a fiberglass pool to pop out of the ground, it is not a common thing for fiberglass pools or pools in general (typically it just presents as cracks or bulges). Proper installation, maintenance, and monitoring water levels of your pool will greatly reduce the risk of your pool popping out of the ground. From our expert experience of 20+ years, any type of pool (vinyl, concrete, fiberglass) can pop out of the ground if not properly installed or maintained. The buildup of drainage water or seasonal high water in the ground underneath the pool that’s been improperly installed is often the main culprit of this rare phenomenon. A correctly installed fiberglass pool will never pop up after being installed.
That’s why if you’re a Texas pool owner and you suspect that your pool might be having drainage issues or may be coming out of the ground, call us today at 972-241-6608 or contact us today to get a free quote on pool repair.
