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How to Fix an Above Ground Pool Buckling Due to Excess Snow

The initial goal when an above ground pool starts to buckle from the pressure of excess snow is to protect the pool from further damage. Pool covers are not made to withstand an unsupported load of snow. The cover should float on the water so the pressure is equalized. When a pool is properly covered, the cover is supported by the water underneath and no downward pressure is exerted on the frame. But when the cover experiences an overload of pressure, the pool walls can start to buckle. Winter is not always the best time to address repairs immediately. But the stress on the cover must be reduced until you can repair it.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic shovel or pool brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Shovel the loose snow from the cover gently with a plastic shovel or pool brush. Attempting to removing all snow from the cover is not usually not advised because the shovel or brush can damage the cover. Moving around any pieces of ice may also cause the ice to poke through the cover. To prevent further damage, however, it's best to remove the snow buildup. Once most of the snow is removed, use a cover pump to remove any melted water.

    • 2

      Leave the water in the pool. Keeping water in the pool supports the structure. Draining the water may cause the pool walls to collapse further.

    • 3

      Drain the water once the temperature is consistently above 32 degrees Fahrenheit and all ice in the pool has melted.

    • 4

      Replace the pool walls and liner. Once the pool starts to buckle, there is no other way to fix it except to replace the affected parts. Replacement instructions vary with each model. Contact your dealer for replacement parts and assistance.