The short answer
How a Leak Can Hollow Out the Ground
A swimming pool holds a large volume of water, and even a slow leak releases thousands of gallons over weeks or months. That water follows the path of least resistance, often seeping into the soil below and around the pool. As it moves, it can carry away fine sand, silt, and clay, leaving larger gravel and stones behind.
This process creates underground cavities, much like water carving a cave. The soil above the cavity loses support, and the ground can gradually settle or suddenly collapse. The result may be a depression in your lawn, a cracked driveway, or in severe cases, a true sinkhole that swallows patio furniture or part of the yard.
Signs Your Pool May Be Leaking
You might notice a drop in your pool's water level that is not from evaporation, especially if the loss is consistent and more than a quarter inch per day. Other clues include wet spots in the yard, unusually green or lush grass near the pool, or a musty smell in a basement or crawl space. Cracks in the pool shell or around the deck can also point to a leak.
If you suspect a leak, act quickly. Turn off the pool pump and mark the water level to confirm the loss. You can also perform a simple bucket test by placing a bucket on a step and comparing the water loss inside the bucket to the pool's loss. A professional leak detection service can pinpoint the exact leak location without digging up your entire yard.
- Constant water level drop beyond normal evaporation
- Wet or soggy areas in the yard, even days after rain
- Cracks in the pool deck or in the pool's interior surface
- Unusually vigorous plant growth near the pool
- A sudden dip or soft spot in the lawn
- Foundation cracks or settling in nearby structures
What to Do If You Suspect a Leak
First, stop using the pool and turn off the circulation system to reduce further water loss. Then, contact a local water damage pro to inspect the area. They can use moisture mapping and leak detection equipment to find the source without unnecessary excavation. This is especially important if you have clay soil, which can swell and shrink, making the problem worse.
Can a Sinkhole Be Repaired?
Yes, but the repair method depends on the size and cause of the sinkhole. For a small depression, a pro may fill it with compacted soil and gravel, then top it with fresh sod. For larger voids, they might use a process called grouting, where a cement-like slurry is injected into the cavity to stabilize the ground.
After the sinkhole is filled, you still need to fix the pool leak to prevent the problem from recurring. A water damage pro can handle both the structural drying and the leak repair. They will also check for any water damage to nearby structures, such as your home's foundation or a patio, and recommend the right steps to restore the area.
When to Call a Professional
If you see a depression growing in your yard, hear gurgling sounds near the pool, or notice cracks in your home's foundation, call a water damage pro immediately. These signs suggest that erosion is already happening, and the situation can worsen quickly. A professional can assess the extent of the damage and recommend a plan to stop the leak and stabilize the soil.
Do not attempt to dig into a sinkhole yourself, as the ground can collapse further. Instead, keep people and pets away from the area. A pro will have the right equipment to handle the job safely. Your insurance company may be involved if you have coverage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Visible depression or hole in the yard
- Cracks in your home's foundation or walls
- Pool water level dropping faster than normal
- Wet spots or puddles in the yard with no recent rain
- Doors or windows that start sticking, indicating settling
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Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for a pool leak to cause a sinkhole?
There is no set timeline. It depends on the leak size, soil type, and how long the water has been flowing. In sandy or loose soil, erosion can happen in months. In clay-heavy soil, it may take years. If you suspect a leak, do not wait to have it checked.
Will my homeowner's insurance cover sinkhole damage from a pool leak?
Coverage varies widely. Some policies cover sudden and accidental damage, while others exclude gradual issues like long-term leaks. Review your policy or talk to your insurance company to understand what is included. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Can a pool leak cause damage to my home's foundation?
Yes. As water erodes the soil under the pool, it can also wash away soil beneath your home's foundation. This can lead to settling, cracks, and uneven floors. If you notice any of these signs, contact a water damage pro to inspect the area and recommend next steps.