What goes wrong with pool decks?
When a pool is built, soil is dug out for the shell and later pushed back around it. That backfill is hard to pack well. Over time it settles, and the deck on top of it drops.
- A gap opens between the deck and the pool coping.
- The deck tilts toward the house instead of away from it.
- Water sits in low spots and leaves stains.
- Cracks run through the cool-deck surface.
Leaks in pool plumbing or nearby irrigation make it worse, because running water carries soil away.
How does foam lifting work around pool plumbing?
Before drilling, the crew finds the pool lines and plans the holes away from them. They drill small 5/8-inch holes, inject foam under the low part of the deck, and lift it in small steps. The foam fills the empty space and does not need to touch the pipes. Then they patch the holes.
If a pool line is leaking, fix it first. Otherwise the soil keeps washing out. A pool leak detection company can check the lines before the lift.
How do I get ready, and when can I use the pool?
- Move furniture, pots and toys off the deck.
- Share any pool plans or notes on where the lines run.
- Keep pets inside during the work.
Most pool decks take 2 to 3 hours. The foam cures in about 15 minutes, and then you can walk on the deck again. Ask the contractor about any wait for the hole patches to set.
How much does pool deck leveling cost?
A pool deck surround of 150 to 300 square feet usually costs $1,200 to $2,600. That is inside the rate of $6 to $12 per square foot, with a $650 minimum. Access through a side gate and working around pool lines can move a job toward the higher end. See the cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Will foam lifting crack my cool-deck coating?
Lifting moves the slab slowly, a little at a time, to keep stress low. Existing cracks may stay visible after the lift, and cool-deck is a thin coating that can show hairline cracks. Many owners recoat the deck after leveling for an even, fresh look.
Can foam fix the gap between my deck and the pool coping?
If the gap formed because the deck dropped, lifting the deck often closes much of it. The joint between deck and coping should still be sealed with a flexible joint sealant after the lift. That keeps water from getting under the deck and starting the problem again.
Is it safe to lift a deck near my pool equipment?
Yes, with care. The crew plans holes away from pool lines and equipment pads. They lift in small steps and watch the deck as it moves. Tell the contractor about any recent pool repairs or known leaks, so they can plan around them.