Esther Williams Pool Wall

by Patty Kanak
(Westchester ,il)

I have a carousel Esther Williams pool that is at least 30 years old. I just noticed several small holes on the outside of pool where I can see the liner through the holes. I am afraid the pool may burst.

This has been a GREAT pool and I would like to know if there is something I can "patch" this with? Will anything work or hold? I was thinking of Flex-steel, but the info I've read...sounds like a scam. How can I save this pool????? Any info would be GREATLY appreciated!!!!

Hi Patty

Wow, thirty years out of an above ground pool and still up and running. That's great.

Rust holes can cause pool failure, but the can also be repaired.

Keep in mind the lower the hole, the more pressure is put on them and the more dangerous they are.

I do not no of any way to repair the wall from outside of the pool. My recommended way of wall repair is to tape a piece of flat metal to the inside of the wall. For most small holes a 12" x 12" piece works fine.

If you are not ready to replace the liner you should not drain the pool all the way, that could ruin the liner due to shrinkage.

You would just need to drain the water below the lowest hole, pull the liner back, tape the plates to the wall and refill.

If that is done correctly you should be able to enjoy the pool for another 5 - 10 years. Best of luck with it.