Pools and Expansive Soil

As a pool builder, dealing with expansive clay soil is a challenge you can’t ignore. This soil’s tendency to swell with moisture and shrink during dry spells can lead to serious structural issues for pools if not addressed properly. In this blog, we’ll explore how expansive soil impacts pool installations and what you can do to ensure long-lasting, stable results for your clients.

The Impact of Expansive Clay Soil on Pools

When building a pool in an area with expansive clay soil, the constant swelling and shrinking of the soil can cause:

• Cracks in the pool shell: As the ground moves, it exerts pressure on the pool’s structure, leading to cracking.

• Unlevel pool decks: Shifting soil can cause the surrounding pool deck to become uneven and crack.

• Plumbing issues: Movement in the ground can also impact underground plumbing, leading to leaks and costly repairs.

These issues can arise long after the pool is installed if the soil beneath is not properly stabilized.

Solutions for Pool Builders Working with Expansive Soils

To ensure the success of your pool projects in areas with expansive clay soil, here are some key strategies:

1. Clay Soil Stabilization

Before installing a pool, it’s crucial to stabilize the soil. Chemical soil stabilization using United Soil Solutions is a highly effective way to reduce the soil’s ability to swell. By stabilizing the soil, you create a more secure foundation for the pool, reducing the risk of future movement.

2. Excavation and Backfill

Another option is to over-excavate the pool area and replace the expansive soil with more stable backfill material. This option is more expensive but, creates a solid base for the pool, minimizing the risk of soil movement. When choosing backfill materials, consider those that have good drainage properties to prevent water from accumulating and causing soil swelling.

3. Flexible Pool Designs

For pool builders working in areas prone to soil swelling, consider using flexible pool designs. Certain pool construction materials, like fiberglass, can flex slightly as the ground moves, making them less susceptible to cracking compared to rigid concrete pools.

4. Install Proper Drainage Systems

Managing water flow around the pool is critical in areas with expansive soil. Installing a proper drainage system around the pool deck can help prevent water from pooling around the structure, reducing the amount of moisture that can enter the soil. This helps keep the soil stable and minimizes the risk of swelling.

5. Monitor and Maintain

After installing a pool in expansive clay soil, it’s important to maintain and monitor the area for signs of soil movement. Regular checks for cracking in the pool shell, leaks, or unlevel decks can catch issues early, preventing costly repairs later on.

Conclusion

Building a pool in expansive clay soil can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can ensure a stable and long-lasting installation. Soil stabilization, proper excavation, flexible designs, and effective drainage systems are essential strategies for managing the risks associated with expansive soil. By addressing these issues upfront, you can deliver quality pools that stand the test of time, even in the most challenging soil conditions.

By understanding the unique challenges posed by expansive clay soils, you can better serve your clients and ensure their pool investments are protected for years to come.