Hydrostatic Pressure Causes Pool Walls to Break in Sunrise, FL

When homeowners notice water slowly leaking out of their inground swimming pool in Sunrise, FL, Swimming Pool Inspection Service investigates.

Sunrise, FL Swimming Pool Inspection

Our inspector visited the property in question. While the homeowner was not present for the inspection, our inspector spoke with the homeowner over the phone, who stated that the pool started slowly leaking water after a storm.

Inspection Observations

During the inspection, our inspector made the following observations:

• The pool was a 24’ circular inground pool, and was approximately 20 – 30 years old.
• The pool was empty of water and the liner and base had been removed.
• The wall plates had shifted.
• The skimmer was broken.
• The bead receptor was broken and was missing valuable components.
• The pump was seized.
• Stair strips used to seal the liner had been removed.
• The pool ladder was missing rungs and bumpers.

Analysis of Damage

After inspecting the pool for damage, our inspector noted that the liner had been removed prior to the inspection. In addition, he made note of the fact that the pool was empty. The ground surrounding an inground pool puts hydrostatic pressure on the pool. The pressure is generally counteracted by the water in the pool. However, when the pool is empty of water, the hydrostatic pressure surrounding the pool increases, which can lead to the pool walls collapsing. After a heavy rainfall, the ground soil can be soaked with water, which can also increase the pressure on the pool walls.

Cause of Damage in Sunrise, FL Swimming Pool

Our inspector determined that the pool walls pushed in because of hydrostatic pressure. It is possible this was related to heavy rainfall absorbed into the ground. The liner was disposed of prior to the inspection, so exact cause of loss cannot be stated. It is possible that the liner was damaged with the motion of the walls. In addition, our inspector noted that the pool was allowed to be partially empty and empty for an unspecified amount of time. This exacerbated the situation and would be classified as neglect. Unfortunately, to repair this pool would require a massive amount of repairs, including repairing the walls and replacing the liner.