Pool Deck Repair & Leveling: Causes, Solutions, and What Homeowners Should Know

A sinking, cracked, or uneven pool deck is more than an eyesore—it can be a safety hazard and a sign of underlying soil or foundation issues. In the Lowcountry, high moisture levels, sandy soils, and heavy rainfall make pool decks especially vulnerable to settlement over time.

At Lowcountry Foundation Repair, we help homeowners restore safety and stability to their pool decks using proven, long-lasting repair solutions. This guide answers the most common homeowner questions about why pool decks fail, how they can be repaired, and when professional repair is the right choice.

Why Do Pool Decks Sink or Crack?

Pool decks rarely fail because of bad concrete alone. In most cases, the problem starts beneath the slab.

Common causes of pool deck damage include:

• Soil erosion: Rainwater, pool splash-out, or poor drainage can wash away supporting soil.

• Soil settlement: Loose or poorly compacted soil naturally compresses over time.

• Expansive or sandy soils: Common in coastal regions, these soils shift with moisture changes.

• Plumbing or pool leaks: Undetected leaks soften soil and accelerate settlement.

When the soil can no longer support the weight of the concrete, the pool deck begins to sink, tilt, or separate from the pool coping.

 

Signs Your Pool Deck Needs Repair

Early warning signs often appear before major damage occurs. Addressing issues early can reduce repair costs and improve safety.

Watch for these common symptoms:

• Uneven or sunken concrete slabs

• Cracks that are widening or spreading

• Gaps between the pool deck and pool coping

• Standing water in low areas

• Trip hazards around the pool

These are typically structural issues—not cosmetic—and should be evaluated by a professional.

What Is the Best Way to Repair a Sinking Pool Deck?

In many cases, removing and replacing concrete is unnecessary. Concrete lifting and leveling is often the most effective and least disruptive solution.

Polyurethane Concrete Lifting (PolyLevel®)

Polyurethane foam injection is a modern repair method used to lift, level, and stabilize sinking pool decks.

How the process works:

1. Small, discreet holes are drilled into the affected slab

2. High-density polyurethane foam is injected beneath the concrete

3. The foam expands, filling voids and lifting the slab

4. The material cures quickly—often allowing same-day use

 

Benefits of polyurethane pool deck leveling:

• Precise, controlled lifting

• Lightweight material that won’t overload weak soils

• Moisture-resistant and long-lasting

• Minimal disruption to landscaping and pool areas

• More cost-effective than slab replacement

Is Pool Deck Repair Safe Around Pools?

Yes. Polyurethane concrete lifting is commonly used around swimming pools because it does not require heavy equipment or large excavations. The process is clean, controlled, and designed to protect nearby structures.

Proper pool deck repair also helps prevent ongoing water intrusion, which can protect the pool shell, surrounding concrete, and even nearby foundations.

 

Pool Deck Repair in the Lowcountry

Repairing a pool deck is about more than appearance—it’s about safety, longevity, and protecting your investment. With modern solutions like polyurethane concrete lifting, homeowners can restore their pool decks without the cost or disruption of full replacement.

At Lowcountry Foundation Repair, we specialize in pool deck leveling, concrete lifting, foundation repair, crawl space repair, and waterproofing solutions designed for coastal conditions. Our inspections focus on identifying the cause of settlement—not just the symptoms.

If your pool deck is sinking, cracking, or becoming unsafe, scheduling a free inspection is the first step toward a lasting repair.