Converting Vinyl Pool Deep end to Shallow

[JMiller3711]

Hi everyone!

We have an older vinyl liner pool with a history of issues — specifically, water getting behind the liner. The liner was just removed, and it looks like water was likely entering through the gap between the pool wall and the surrounding concrete decking.

Here’s what we’re planning to do:​

• Cut out the surrounding decking
• Build up the pool walls
• Install new coping and a new liner track
• Convert the deep end to a sport pool — roughly 5 feet deep across the whole pool

To achieve the new depth, the contractor plans to fill the deep end with clean gravel, then cap it with pool krete to form the new bottom.

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My questions:​

• Are we missing any important steps?
• Should the clean gravel be compacted before pouring the new bottom?
• Should we remove the existing pool bottom (old vermiculite/pool krete) before filling with gravel?
• Any long-term concerns or lessons learned from similar projects?

Appreciate any advice or stories you’re willing to share. Thanks in advance!

 

[ajw22]

Depends on the gravel being used - Gravel Around Pools - Further Reading

I am skeptical that raising the pool walls will solve the water getting behind your liner.

You need to install drains and sump pits to capture any water getting behind the liner and carry it away.

https://intheswim.com/blog/inground-pool-construction-and-groundwater-issues.html