How to Install Concrete Pool Skimmers

Locate a spot 6 to 8 inches from the rim of your concrete pool where you want to install the skimmer. Ensure any water in the pool falls several inches below the selected point.

Hold the template that comes with the skimmer kit against the desired spot on the wall and trace its outline. Also trace the locations of its screw holes on the wall. If the skimmer kit does not include a template, simply hold the unit against the wall and trace its outline.

Cut through the pool liner and concrete wall along the outlines, using a concrete saw and diamond cutting bit. Wear safety glasses when cutting the hole to prevent injury. Maintain steady pressure when cutting through the concrete wall.

Use a 4-pound sledgehammer in the center of the scored outline to break the concrete. Continue this process to pound the wall, working slowly along the edges to prevent cracks in the surrounding wall. Clear the edges of the outline using a chisel and hammer.

Bore pilot holes through the marked screw holes on the wall, using a drill and masonry bit.

Push temporary screws into the holes to anchor the liner and hold in place. These screws are provided with pool skimmer kits.

Set the skimmer’s rubber seal over the pool wall, ensuring its holes match up against the pilot holes. This rubber seal keeps water from seeping through into the hole. Place the skimmer on the seal, with its holes matching the corresponding holes through the seal and wall.

Unscrew each temporary screw and replace with the skimmer installation screws provided with the skimmer. Ensure you insert each screw through the pool’s inner edge. All must pass through the liner, wall and the skimmer.

Set the faceplate on the skimmer and insert screws through to secure it to the wall. Apply a bead of epoxy to seal the gap between the skimmer and faceplate. Allow the epoxy to cure according to the time specified on the directions before adding water into the pool.