Skimmer question

[Mikeb37]

I’m installing s new skimmer
Should I backfill around skimmer with dirt and then pour new deck with concrete or should I backfill with all concrete around the skimmer.
I have concrete walls if that makes a difference
pic is old skimmer

 

[blakeusa]

Dirt or sand preferably (soft on pipes) up until the bottom of the skimmer then frame a wooden box 2x4 and plywood around the skimmer about 10 inches would be good. This is just to contain the concrete and
to make a sturdy mount for the skimmer.

Before pouring the concrete, place 4 - 2 ft long pieces of rebar into 2 inch deep holes that you drilled into the back side of the pool walls, 2 holes on each side of the skimmer.

The steel rebar adds strength to the mass of concrete, and it also helps keep it attached to the pool wall. Adding a few vertical pieces of steel rebar, tied to the horizontal, will also increase the strength of your skimmer installation.

 

[PoolguyinCT]

I see no need to cage & mud it to the wall.
Faceplates will keep it in place.. & thick wall does a better job that the supports that come with package pools.

Anyway, let’s see the damage to skimmer? Why are you changing the skimmer?

 

[lamerem]

Well think of it this way, if you ever have to change that skimmer again you'll have to break all that concrete out if you back fill with concrete.