How to Disassemble a Pool

Assembly of an aboveground pool goes from the ground up, so to disassemble one, we must think in reverse. Ladders, stairs, pool alarm systems, hanging lights and any other pool accessory that is attached to or comes in contact with the top ledge of the pool must be removed prior to pool disassembly. The specific names of individual parts vary by manufacturer, but their generic function is universal and applies to all pools.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Duct tape
• Plastic holders or bags

Instructions

1. Drain the pool of all water.

2. Unscrew the skimmer faceplate and remove the skimmer.

3. Loosen the return port's hand-tightened outer ring to free the return port for removal.

4. Remove the pool's top-caps either by unscrewing their fastening screws or, if snapped together, unsnapping the plastic sections.

5. Remove all screws and cage nuts from the top ledges to free each section for removal.

6. Unscrew all screws from an individual top plate and remove the plate, which will allow the next section of top rail removal as well. Remove the entire top rail and all top plates in an alternating pattern.

7. Slide off all coping strips holding the pool liner in place.

8. Remove the pool liner from the top of the pool wall by letting it drop inside of the pool wall.

9. Unscrew all uprights or posts from the bottom plates and remove the uprights.

10. Unbolt the pool wall and remove it from the bottom rail track.

11. Gather all bottom rails and bottom plates.

12. Roll the pool wall up into a compact roll and secure the roll with duct tape or cord.

Tips & Warnings

• Rolling up the pool goes more quickly when you have helpers. Place all hardware in labeled plastic bags or holders for easy identification.

References

• Pool assembly instructions