Over time, a Holly Springs homeowner began noticing sections of their stone patio slowly sinking and separating around the edges of the pool. Although the pool had only been installed a few years earlier, the gradual settling became increasingly noticeable and raised concerns about the stability of the patio. When they contacted us to investigate, the visible movement immediately suggested that improper backfilling methods may have been used during the original pool construction.
Investigating the Cause of the Settling Patio
Once excavation began as part of the pool deck repair process, the root of the problem became clear. The area surrounding the pool had not been properly backfilled. Instead of using engineered stone and proper compaction methods, the original contractor relied solely on native soil.
Over time, moisture saturation and natural settling caused that soil to shift significantly beneath the patio. The result was widespread sinking around nearly the entire pool perimeter. In some areas, there was as much as a two-inch gap beneath the pool coping, the poured concrete cap that frames the pool’s edge.
The issue continued to worsen as the pavers began to split and separate. These gaps allowed rainwater to penetrate deep below the surface, accelerating erosion and enlarging the voids underneath.
Discovering and Repairing a Hidden Leak
During the pool deck repair process, we uncovered another critical issue contributing to the problem. A leak behind one of the underwater light fixtures was allowing water to escape into the surrounding soil.
This ongoing leak had been increasing soil saturation, further weakening the base and accelerating the settling. Identifying and repairing the leak was an essential step in preventing continued structural damage and ensuring the long-term success of the repair.
A Long-Term Pool Deck Repair Solution
Rather than simply resetting the pavers, we focused on rebuilding the foundation the right way. Approximately eighteen inches of saturated, unstable soil was removed and replaced with a properly engineered base system designed for long-term performance.
We installed layers of geosynthetic soil stabilization fabric to reinforce the subgrade, followed by #57 washed stone to improve drainage and create a stable, compactable base. Once the foundation was rebuilt, the pavers were carefully reinstalled, with nearly seventy percent of the patio replaced.
Why Proper Base Preparation Matters
Pool decks are constantly exposed to water, temperature fluctuations, and soil movement. Without proper drainage, compaction, and support beneath the surface, failure is only a matter of time.
One of the most common causes of structural issues is improper backfilling with native soil alone. Soil shifts, especially when exposed to moisture, and without proper compaction, even newer patios can begin to settle quickly.
Local Pool Deck Repair in Holly Springs
We focus on doing pool deck repair the right way—starting below the surface, where long-term durability is built.
If your patio is sinking, shifting, or pulling apart, it’s usually a sign of deeper underlying issues. Catching the problem early can make a major difference in both cost and long-term performance.
Contact us today to schedule a professional evaluation and restore the safety, function, and beauty of your outdoor space.