Why Is the Concrete Around My Pool Sinking?

Discover why the concrete around your swimming pool is sinking.

When you notice the concrete around your pool beginning to sink, it can be a cause for concern. This issue not only detracts from the appearance of your outdoor space but also poses safety risks and potential damage to your pool’s structural integrity.

The reasons behind a sinking pool deck are diverse, often involving a combination of environmental and structural factors. Understanding these underlying causes is crucial for effectively addressing the problem.

To comprehend why your pool’s concrete is sinking, consider the site’s preparation, maintenance, and environmental conditions since installation. Factors such as geological changes, poor initial construction practices, and the relentless impact of seasonal weather changes can all contribute to this unwelcome development.

PS: We specialize in raising and leveling concrete (mudjacking) for driveways, walkways, pool decks, concrete floors, and warehouse concrete floors, restoring stability in NJ and PA cities. We do not coat or seal concrete, perform residential crack repair, or use polyurethane for leveling.

Notable Causes of a Sinking Concrete Pool Deck

Poor soil compaction beneath the pool deck

One primary cause of a sinking pool deck is the poor compaction of soil beneath the surface. When the soil is not compacted properly during the initial construction, it may settle unevenly over time.

This process leads to a lack of support for the concrete slabs, causing them to sink or crack. When laying a pool deck, the soil must be firmly compacted to ensure a stable base to effectively support the weight of the concrete.

Improper soil compaction is often the result of rushed construction or oversight during the preparation phase. Builders might not allow enough time for the soil to settle naturally or fail to use the necessary compaction equipment. As a result, the integrity of the pool deck is compromised, leading to potential sinking and the need for repairs.

Erosion of soil due to water drainage issues

Another significant contributor to a sinking pool deck is soil erosion caused by inadequate water drainage. Poor drainage can lead to water accumulating around the pool area, which gradually washes away the soil supporting the concrete and may cause leaks.

This erosion weakens the ground beneath, leading to uneven settling, trip hazards, and eventual sinking of the pool deck. Proper drainage solutions must be integrated during the pool’s construction and maintained regularly to prevent such problems.

Drains should be strategically placed to direct water away from the pool deck efficiently. Moreover, correctly positioned gutters and downspouts can help manage runoff and protect your property’s soil from erosion.

Neglecting these drainage concerns often results in substantial damage, necessitating costly repairs or, in some cases, complete deck replacement. Proactive measures and regular inspections can help mitigate these risks considerably.

Soil shrinkage from extended dry periods

Soil shrinkage due to prolonged dry periods is another factor that can lead to a sinking pool deck. During extended drought conditions, the moisture within the soil evaporates, causing the soil to shrink and lose volume. This shrinkage results in voids underneath the concrete, reducing its support and leading to uneven settling or sinking.

The impact of soil shrinkage is most pronounced in clay soils, which are prone to significant expansion and contraction with fluctuations in moisture levels. When the soil retracts, it can leave substantial gaps beneath the pool deck, weakening the base that holds the concrete firmly in place.

To counteract this issue, homeowners can employ methods such as consistently watering the landscaping around the pool to maintain soil moisture. Additionally, certain types of soil stabilizers can help retain moisture levels and reduce shrinkage.

Regular monitoring and maintenance are key to ensuring that the soil’s moisture content remains stable, thereby protecting the pool deck’s structural integrity.

Tree roots growing under the concrete.

Tree roots beneath your pool deck can pose a substantial threat to its stability. As trees grow, their roots expand, searching for nutrients and water. This expansion can lift sections of the pool deck or cause the concrete to crack and destabilize. The pressure exerted by rapidly growing roots can displace soil, undermining the deck’s support structure and leading to uneven surfaces.

This issue often arises when trees are planted too close to the pool or when their rooting systems extend unexpectedly over time. Certain tree species have particularly aggressive root systems that can extend far beyond the tree’s canopy, making them a risk to nearby structures.

Preventative measures include thoughtful landscaping planning, such as planting trees at a safe distance from concrete installations. For existing problems, homeowners might consider root barriers to prevent further encroachment.

If the damage is extensive, consulting a professional arborist or landscaping service could be necessary to address root management effectively.

Heavy loads on the pool deck are causing settling

Heavy loads placed on the pool deck can also cause the concrete to settle unevenly. When a pool deck is used for entertaining, with large gatherings or heavy equipment, the added weight can exceed the soil’s load-bearing capacity beneath the concrete.

This excessive pressure leads to compression and a subsequent downward movement or settling of the deck.

Spas, large outdoor furniture, and storage structures often strain your pool deck. The foundational soil dictates how much load it can effectively manage without shifting. When this capacity is surpassed, the concrete may start to dip or crack.

To mitigate these issues, consider assessing the load capacity during the initial construction. It’s also beneficial to distribute heavy items more evenly across the deck and limit their presence. For ongoing use, periodic checking of the deck for signs of stress or movement can help identify potential problems early.

Deterioration of the concrete due to age and wear

As concrete ages, natural wear and tear can diminish its structural integrity, leading to a sinking pool deck. Over time, exposure to the elements—such as sunlight, rain, and temperature fluctuations—can cause small cracks to form in the concrete. These minor imperfections gradually worsen, allowing water to seep underneath, eroding the base material and creating voids that lead to sinking.

Moreover, repeated freeze-thaw cycles in colder climates can exacerbate the deterioration. Water entering small cracks can freeze and expand, widening the cracks each winter and further weakening the concrete.

Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your pool deck. This includes sealing the concrete to protect against moisture penetration and addressing visible cracks promptly to prevent further damage. Additionally, routine inspections for signs of wear can facilitate early interventions, safeguarding both your investment and the safety of those using the pool area.

Recognizing the Signs Sinking Swimming Pool Deck

Cracks and Uneven Surfaces

Cracks and uneven surfaces are typically the first visible signs of a sinking pool deck and warrant immediate attention. These issues not only detract from the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor area but also indicate underlying structural problems. Cracks often form due to shifting soil, settling, or the natural wear of the concrete, acting as a clear warning sign of potential instability.

Uneven surfaces are not just an eyesore; they pose serious safety risks. They can lead to trips and falls, especially around a pool, where water can obscure these imperfections. Furthermore, when sections of the deck start to tilt or dip, it can cause drainage issues, leading to water pooling in unwanted areas and accelerating the erosion process.

Addressing these signs early can prevent more extensive damage. Depending on the severity, solutions may range from simple crack repairs and leveling to more comprehensive interventions like mudjacking or underpinning.

Pool Decks Sloping

A sloping pool deck is another common indicator of sinking that should not be ignored. When the deck tilts or slopes away from its original level position, it often points to uneven settling due to one or more of the factors mentioned earlier, such as soil erosion, poor compaction, or weight overload.

The consequences of a sloping deck can extend beyond aesthetics, affecting the pool’s functionality and safety. A slanted surface can disrupt proper drainage, causing water to pool, which may lead to further erosion and increased safety hazards. Additionally, this water accumulation can become a breeding ground for algae and mold, which, if unchecked, can further deteriorate the concrete.

Corrective measures like mudjacking or concrete leveling can help restore the surface to its original alignment. This not only improves the aesthetic of your outdoor space but also addresses the root causes to prevent recurrent issues.

Structural Instability Indicators

Indicators of structural instability around your pool deck can manifest in various subtle yet telling ways. Besides visible cracks and sloping, you might notice unusual gaps forming between the deck and adjoining structures, such as the pool coping or the house foundation. These gaps suggest that the concrete is moving away from its original position, which signifies underlying support issues.

Another indicator is the presence of small puddles or persistent wet spots that remain after rainfall or water usage. Such issues often highlight underlying drainage concerns or depressions in the decking that promote water collection, exacerbating erosion and foundational degradation.

Creaking or unusual noises when walking on the deck may also signal instability. While these sounds might not seem significant initially, they can indicate loosening or weakening joints and connections within the concrete structure.

To address these concerns, conduct regular assessments and engage professionals if changes become apparent. Early detection allows for more straightforward, less invasive repair options like concrete stabilization or soil reinforcement.

Effective Repair Solutions for Sinking Concrete around the Pool

Concrete Underpinning Techniques

Concrete underpinning techniques offer effective solutions for addressing sinking pool decks by reinforcing the existing structure’s stability. Underpinning involves strengthening and stabilizing the foundation, often required when the original base is unable to support the load due to shifting soil or other factors.

One popular method is installing helical piers or piles, which involves driving screw-like anchors into more stable soil layers below the surface. This technique provides additional support, effectively lifting and securing the pool deck.

Another technique is pier and beam underpinning, which adds supplementary columns or supports underneath the deck. This method redistributes the weight, reducing stress on any weakened areas that could lead to further sinking.

Engaging professionals skilled in underpinning is crucial, as they can assess specific needs and determine the most appropriate approach. These techniques not only halt further sinking but restore the deck’s original grade, ensuring safety and longevity.

Mudjacking

Mudjacking, also known as slab jacking or pressure grouting, is a cost-effective technique for raising and stabilizing sinking concrete pool decks. This method involves injecting a slurry mixture comprised of water, cement, and sometimes additional additives beneath the sunken concrete.

The pressure from the injection lifts the concrete back to its original level. To learn more about this effective technique, you can schedule an appointment through our website.

One of the primary benefits of mudjacking is its minimal disruption. It doesn’t require extensive excavation, meaning the surrounding landscape and structures remain largely undisturbed.

The process is relatively quick, often completed in just a few hours, and the material used is durable and sustainable. When choosing mudjacking services, it’s important to understand the data about the site conditions to ensure the best results.

However, mudjacking may not be suitable for decks experiencing significant structural issues or where the underlying soil conditions are severely compromised. In such cases, alternative methods like underpinning may be recommended. Despite these limitations, mudjacking provides an efficient solution for many homeowners dealing with moderately sunken or uneven pool decks.

Concrete Replacement Options

When a pool deck shows extensive damage or repeated sinking, complete concrete replacement might be the best solution. This option involves removing the existing concrete, addressing underlying issues such as soil instability or poor drainage, and installing new concrete for a fresh and stable surface.

Advantages of replacement include the opportunity to upgrade materials or design, integrating new features like decorative finishes or slip-resistant surfaces. It also offers a chance to correct any underlying foundational problems with modern construction techniques, ensuring a long-lasting fix.

However, concrete replacement is more time-consuming and expensive than other repair methods. It involves demolition, excavation, and potentially lengthy curing times for the new concrete. Consequently, it might temporarily disrupt the use of the pool area.

This approach is best suited for pool decks beyond repair, with extensive cracking or structural problems that other methods cannot appropriately address.

Hire Our Concrete Pool Deck Raising Services in NJ & PA Areas

If you’re facing challenges with a sinking pool deck, seeking professional assistance can safeguard your investment and restore your outdoor space’s safety and appeal.

Our concrete pool deck raising services in the NJ and PA areas specialize in addressing various issues, including soil erosion, structural instability, and other common causes of sinking.

With a team of experienced professionals, we offer tailored solutions such as underpinning, mud jacking, and comprehensive concrete replacement. These options are designed to meet your property’s unique needs, ensuring effective and lasting results.

We understand the importance of a secure and attractive pool area, which is why we use advanced techniques and high-quality materials to achieve optimal outcomes.

Whether you need minor adjustments or a complete transformation, our experts will guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to discuss your needs and benefit from our reliable, professional services that will leave your pool deck sturdy and beautiful for years to come.