TonyK

The cracking in my case is not due to a structural problem. It is the result of blistering of the fiberglass due to hydrolysis. It is more common in fiberglass boat hulls, but also occurs in any fiberglass that is continually submerged in water (for example, my fiberglass pool steps). Over time, the fiberglass actually absorbs water due to some complex chemical reaction and forms blisters that eventually crack. That's exactly what I have - the blisters and cracking are only present below the water level. Here is a brief explanation from a material's website: The first requirement for hydrolysis is water absorption. A dry sailed boat or an intermittently used tank will probably not fail by hydrolysis. A swimming pool that is always filled, a yacht that is always afloat, or a tank that is usually filled are candidates for eventual failure. Because elevated temperatures accelerate the hydrolysis reaction, both delamination and blistering are more widespread in southern climes. A tank holding warm water is especially at risk. I don't know what their definition of "warm" is, but we do live in the South and sometimes have trouble keeping the water cool enough on hot days in late summer. I prefer to get some new steps not made of fiberglass. I saw the Quaker steps online, but have not been able to find any other brand, or general information on steps. Does anyone know of some dealers that sell 4'x8' steps that could replace what I currently have? Thanks.

I purchased a 20'x40' steel wall, vinyl liner pool kit about 15 years ago and installed it myself. It is a MAJOR do-it-yourself project that requires numerous skills, especially electrical. If you don't properly bond the components (not the same as grounding!) and get the electrical done right, you can create a dangerous situation. But in general, it was a fun and successful project that saved alot of money and was very satisfying. I had an excavator dig the hole per the drawing that came with the kit. I installed the steel wall panels, steps, bracing, poured the concrete collar around the perimeter, installed the fittings and piping, underwater light, accessories, and backfilling. I then paid a skilled person to trowel in the bottom in order to get a good, smooth finish. In the meantime I built a pump house and connected the pump, filter, Polaris, and heater. After installing the liner and filling the pool in November, I continued backfilling around the deck area for about six months to eliminate settling before pouring the concrete deck in May. After installing the deck forms, diving board foundation, and collars for the ladder and handrail, I paid a couple of guys to pour and finish the concrete deck since that is so visible and I'm not skilled at finishing concrete. I really didn't have any problems, but I spent some time reading about how to do it, and did a good bit of planning. Again, if you are a good DIY, it can be a very rewarding project. Good luck!

I need to replace my 4'x8' fiberglass pool steps due to cracking. Has anyone replaced steps that can offer some advice? Besides removing a portion of the concrete decking and backfill (which doesn't sound too bad), what about the concrete collar? I don't want to chip that out if at all possible. I installed this pool myself, so I know how it was put in. I'm just not sure what pitfalls I might encounter trying to get a new step unit to fit in the existing hole, or even where to purchase new steps. When I installed this pool 16 years ago, I didn't plan on ever replacing the steps. Is it time to just buy a new home and start over?

My fiberglass steps have blisters below the water line. Other than replacement, what repair options are available?