How To Disassemble An Above Ground Pool – A Step-By-Step Guide
Removing a large backyard fixture can feel like a massive undertaking, especially when thousands of gallons of water are involved. Whether you are moving to a new homestead, upgrading your outdoor space, or simply clearing room for a garden, the process requires a methodical approach. We understand that your time and safety are valuable, and doing this job correctly prevents damage to your property and your equipment.
In this guide, we will walk you through every stage of the teardown process, from initial drainage to final hardware storage. You will learn the professional tricks that make the job faster and much less stressful. By following these steps, you can ensure that your yard remains in great shape and your pool components stay ready for their next destination.
Learning how to disassemble an above ground pool is a fundamental skill for any self-reliant homeowner or outdoor enthusiast. This article provides the clear, actionable instructions you need to tackle this project with total confidence. Let’s gather your tools and prepare your workspace for a successful afternoon of productive labor.
Essential Tools and Preparation for the Job
Before you begin, you must have the right gear on hand to avoid unnecessary delays. Most pools are held together by a combination of stainless steel bolts and heavy-duty plastic clips. Having a dedicated workspace for your tools will keep the project organized and prevent you from losing small, essential parts in the grass.
You will definitely need a high-quality submersible pump and a long discharge hose to move the water away from your foundation. For the structure itself, keep a cordless drill with various bits, a set of wrenches, and a flathead screwdriver nearby. A pair of heavy-duty work gloves is also vital to protect your hands from sharp metal edges on the pool wall.
Don’t forget the importance of lubrication when dealing with older pools that may have weathered several seasons. A can of penetrating oil can be a lifesaver for rusted bolts that refuse to budge. Additionally, keep several labeled freezer bags or small containers ready to organize the hardware as it comes off the frame.
Safety First: Electrical and Water Hazards
Safety is the most critical part of any outdoor project involving water and electricity. Always disconnect the power supply to the pump and filter system before you touch a single drop of water. Use a circuit tester to verify that no current is running to the pool equipment area.
Wear rubber-soled boots to maintain traction on wet surfaces and prevent slips. If you are working in high heat, stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shade. It is also wise to have a partner assist you, especially when handling the heavy steel wall during the final stages of the teardown.
how to disassemble an above ground pool
The first active step in how to disassemble an above ground pool involves removing every drop of water from the vessel. A standard pool contains thousands of gallons, and you cannot simply “pop” the side to let it out. Doing so would cause a flash flood that could erode your landscape or flood a neighbor’s yard.
Drop your submersible pump into the deepest part of the pool and run the hose to a legal drainage area. Check your local municipal codes to see if you are allowed to drain treated water into the storm sewer. Once the water level is below the return jets and skimmer, you can begin removing the external plumbing lines.
As the water drains, use a soft brush to scrub the waterline and remove any algae or debris. This makes the liner much easier to handle and fold once it is dry. If you plan on disposing of the liner, you can use a utility knife to cut it into manageable sections as the water recedes.
Managing the Skimmer and Return Fittings
Once the water level drops below the openings in the pool wall, it is time to remove the skimmer box. Carefully unscrew the faceplate from the inside of the pool while a partner holds the outer box. Be careful not to lose the gaskets, as these are specific to your pool model.
Repeat this process for the return jet fitting, ensuring you keep all the plastic nuts and directional eyeballs together. If the gaskets are dry or cracked, plan on replacing them before the pool is reassembled elsewhere. Store these plumbing components in a dedicated “wet parts” bin to keep them separate from the metal hardware.
Dismantling the Top Rails and Uprights
With the water gone and the plumbing removed, the structure will start to lose its internal tension. Begin by removing the top caps, which are the decorative plastic covers that sit over the vertical posts. These usually snap off or are held by one or two small screws at the base.
Next, move around the perimeter and unscrew the top rails one by one. These are the horizontal beams that form the “ledge” of the pool. It is best to work in a circle, removing all the screws first and then lifting the rails off the frame. If a rail feels stuck, a light tap with a rubber mallet can often break the seal.
Once the rails are removed, you will see the uprights, which are the vertical pillars supporting the wall. These are typically bolted to bottom plates buried slightly in the ground. Remove the top screws first, then clear away any dirt or mulch at the base to access the bottom hardware.
Handling the Metal Rim and Coping
Underneath the top rails, you will find plastic or metal coping strips that hold the liner over the wall. Carefully pry these up, being mindful not to bend them if you intend to reuse them. These strips are often brittle if they have been exposed to years of direct sunlight and UV rays.
If you are saving the vinyl liner, avoid dragging it across the top of the metal wall. The edge of the wall can be surprisingly sharp and will slice through vinyl like a razor. Have a helper help you lift the liner over the wall and lay it on a clean, grassy area to dry completely before folding.
Rolling Up the Steel Wall Safely
The most difficult part of how to disassemble an above ground pool is managing the heavy steel wall. This component is essentially one long, continuous sheet of metal that is coiled into a circle. Once you remove the vertical bolted seam, the wall will want to uncoil or collapse under its own weight.
Start by removing the screws or bolts that join the two ends of the wall together. You may need a socket wrench on one side and pliers on the other to break these loose. Once the seam is open, slowly begin rolling the wall inward, like a giant roll of carpet, as you move along the bottom track.
Use bungee cords or heavy twine to secure the roll every few feet to prevent it from springing open. This part of the job absolutely requires two people to maintain control and prevent the wall from kinking. A kinked wall is structurally compromised and may not be safe to set up again in the future.
Cleaning the Bottom Track and Plates
The final pieces of the frame are the bottom tracks and base plates that sat under the uprights. These are often buried in sand or dirt and may have accumulated a significant amount of debris. Use a small garden trowel to dig them out carefully so you don’t bend the thin metal channels.
Scrub these parts with a stiff brush and plain water to remove any corrosive minerals or soil. Inspect the tracks for signs of “pitting” or heavy rust, especially near the joints. If the metal is thinning due to rust, it may be time to order replacement track sections before your next installation.
Managing the Pump and Filtration System
Your sand filter or cartridge system needs special attention during the disassembly process. If you have a sand filter, it will be extremely heavy and difficult to move while full. Use the drain plug at the bottom of the tank to let the water escape over several hours.
For those moving the pool, you might consider emptying the filter sand entirely to make transport easier. If you choose to keep the sand, ensure the tank is moved in an upright position to avoid damaging the internal “laterals.” These small plastic fingers are fragile and essential for proper water filtration.
Disconnect all flexible hoses and check them for cracks or stiffening. It is often cheaper and safer to buy new hoses for a re-installation than to risk a leak with old ones. Store the pump motor in a dry, indoor environment to prevent moisture from damaging the internal electrical windings.
Winterizing Components for Long-Term Storage
If you are storing the pool for a season, you must ensure every component is bone-dry. Mold and mildew can ruin a vinyl liner in a matter of weeks if it is folded while damp. Lay the liner out in the sun until all moisture has evaporated from the folds and seams.
Apply a thin coat of silicone spray to any metal bolts or small hardware to prevent oxidation during storage. This small step makes the eventual re-installation much smoother. Place all small parts in a heavy-duty plastic tote with a locking lid to keep out pests and moisture.
Restoring the Ground for Future Use
Once the pool is gone, you will be left with a large circle of leveled sand or a “dead zone” in your lawn. For homesteaders, this is actually a perfect starting point for a raised bed garden or a leveled patio area. The ground is already compacted and flat, saving you hours of excavation work.
If you want to grow grass again, you will need to remove the excess sand and replace it with nutrient-rich topsoil. Use a garden rake to break up the compacted earth underneath the sand layer. This aeration helps new roots penetrate the soil and allows for better water drainage in your yard.
Understanding how to disassemble an above ground pool also means knowing how to leave the land better than you found it. Consider adding a layer of compost to the area to jumpstart the biological life in the soil. Within a few months, your yard can transition from a swimming area to a thriving green space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Disassembly
Can I disassemble a pool by myself?
While small “easy-set” pools can be handled alone, a permanent above ground pool requires at least two people. The steel wall is heavy and awkward, making it dangerous to handle without assistance. Having a partner ensures that the wall doesn’t collapse or blow over in the wind during the process.
How long does it take to take down a pool?
For a standard 24-foot round pool, expect the process to take 4 to 8 hours of active work. This does not include the time required for the water to drain, which can take overnight depending on your pump’s flow rate. Planning for a full weekend allows you to clean and organize parts without rushing.
Should I keep the old liner?
If the liner is more than 3-5 years old, it is usually best to replace it. Vinyl becomes brittle over time due to chemical exposure and sunlight. Once a liner is removed and allowed to dry out, it often shrinks and may not fit correctly or seal properly if you try to reinstall it.
How do I store the pool wall to prevent damage?
The best way to store the wall is to roll it tightly and stand it upright on a piece of plywood or a pallet. Never lay the roll on its side, as the weight can cause the bottom edges to crimp or deform. Wrap the entire roll in a heavy-duty tarp to protect it from the elements and physical scratches.
Final Thoughts on a Successful Teardown
Taking the time to learn how to disassemble an above ground pool correctly pays dividends in the long run. By being organized and following a logical sequence, you protect your investment and your property. Whether you are selling the pool, moving it, or making way for a new adventure, a clean disassembly is the mark of a true outdoor expert.
Remember to stay patient during the process, especially when dealing with stubborn hardware or heavy components. Use the right tools, prioritize your safety, and don’t be afraid to ask for a helping hand. With the pool removed, you now have a blank canvas to create the next great feature of your outdoor living space.
Stay safe and stay productive!
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