Stabilize Your Hollow or Flexing Pool Steps

Learn how concrete leveling may be able to fix your hollow or flexing pool steps.

If you’ve noticed that your pool steps seem hollow and flex when you walk down into the water, you’re likely wondering what it will take to get them back to how they should be. 

While on the surface it may seem like a complicated problem with a very expensive solution, stabilizing pool steps is actually a simple and cost-effective process. In fact, it can usually be done in less than a day.

At A-1 Concrete Leveling, we have over 30 years of experience in repairing pool decks, stabilizing pool steps, and evening out pool equipment pads with concrete leveling. 

In this article, we’ll walk you through why pool steps become hollow or settle in the first place, how concrete leveling can help fix hollow pool steps, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about pool step stabilizing.

Why Do Pool Steps Become Hollow, Flex, or Settle?

When pools are installed, the area around the pool walls and steps is backfilled with soil, gravel, and other materials in order to support the pool, steps, and the concrete pool deck on top.

Over time, the backfill supporting pool steps may erode away or naturally compact, creating gaps underneath the steps. These voids where the steps were previously supported can lead to settling or flexing when the steps are walked on. 

Pool steps can also crack over time, which creates a leak that washes out the soil and other backfill materials under the steps, making them hollow.

How to Fix Hollow Pool Steps

The solution to hollow or flexing pool steps lies in the concrete leveling process. To stabilize pool steps with concrete leveling, technicians pump a stabilizing compound into the voids beneath the pool steps, which replaces the missing backfill.

After the material fills the voids, it hardens and provides the necessary support to bear the weight applied when walking on the steps. This process ensures that your pool steps are solid and safe for use.

It’s important to note that we typically cannot lift settled pool steps, only void-fill and stabilize them, as the fiberglass is not strong enough to withstand being lifted.

Frequently Asked Pool Step Repair Questions

How much does pool step repair cost?

The cost of pool step repair starts at $950, but this will vary depending on the specific requirements of the project. 

Factors such as the extent of the damage, the size of the pool steps, and the complexity of the repair process are considered when determining the final cost.

Do you have to drill holes in the steps or concrete?

In some cases, we may need to drill holes in the steps or the surrounding concrete to access the voids and properly inject the stabilizing compound. Our approach depends on the unique variables of each project.

Can you work with the pool company for fiberglass step repair?

Yes, we often collaborate with pool companies to stabilize steps and pool decks before, during, and after repairs. By working together, we can ensure a comprehensive solution that addresses all aspects of your pool repair needs.

Your Next Steps

If you're experiencing issues with flexing or hollow pool steps, now you know how you can go about fixing them with concrete leveling. 

Concrete leveling is a versatile solution to many different problems, including pool step repair, that can save you time, money, and hassle when all you want to do is enjoy your pool in the hot summer months.

To see what concrete leveling can do for your pool, click the link below to request a free onsite cost estimate with an expert from A-1 Concrete Leveling!

Want to know more about concrete repair and maintenance around pools? Check out some of these related topics from A-1’s online resource library, Concrete Academy:

• All About Concrete Leveling Around Pools
• Maintaining Your Pool Concrete: Caulking Is Key
• Concrete Patio Repair: 5 Ways to Improve Your Patio