Removing Wedding Cake Pool Stairs: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding cake pool stairs are a type of step that can be added to above-ground pools to improve accessibility. While they can be beneficial for those with limited mobility, they are notorious for their poor circulation, which can lead to algae buildup. This has prompted some pool owners to remove and clean their wedding cake pool stairs, and even switch to alternative stairs with better circulation. In this article, we will explore the process of removing wedding cake pool stairs, the benefits of doing so, and provide suggestions for alternative stairs that can improve pool access without compromising water quality.

Removing wedding cake stairs to clean them

Wedding cake stairs are a great way to provide easy access to your pool for children and those with mobility issues. However, their poor circulation makes them an ideal breeding ground for algae. If you want to remove and clean your wedding cake stairs, here are the steps you can follow:

• Remove the handrails from the stairs if they are attached to your pool deck.
• Take out the weights or sandbags used to weigh down the stairs.
• Carefully lift and remove the wedding cake stairs from your pool.
• Place the stairs in a safe area where you can clean them thoroughly.
• Scrub the stairs with a suitable cleaning solution or pool cleaner to remove any algae or dirt buildup. You may also use a brush or a pressure washer for effective cleaning.
• Once the stairs are clean, you can decide whether to put them back in the pool or store them away.

If you choose to put the stairs back, make sure to weigh them down securely and consider improving the circulation around them to prevent future algae growth. You can do this by drilling additional holes in the stairs or installing a second return with a hose behind the stairs to improve water flow.

If you decide to store the stairs, ensure they are dried thoroughly and kept in a safe place until you need to use them again.

Remember to maintain proper water chemistry and regularly clean your pool to prevent algae growth and keep your pool in good condition.

Weighing down the stairs to prevent floating

Weighing down wedding cake pool stairs is essential to prevent floating and ensure the safety of those entering and exiting the pool. Here are some methods to achieve this:

Use Sandbags

Sandbags are an effective way to weigh down pool stairs. Place them strategically around the base of the stairs to add stability and prevent movement. Ensure that the bags are waterproof and securely tied to the steps with nylon rope or a bungee cord. Position the weights close to the stairs, being careful not to obstruct swimmers or create a trip hazard.

Fill the Steps with Sand

Some pool steps are designed with compartments that can be filled with sand to weigh them down. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the amount and weight of sand required. Use a funnel to fill the compartments, shaking the steps occasionally to settle the sand. Once filled, place the steps back into the pool to ensure they stay submerged.

Use Water-Filled Containers

Another option is to use containers filled with water to weigh down the stairs. For example, you could use a collapsible water jug or a bucket with drainage holes, filled with water and sealed tightly to prevent any leakage. Place these containers in or around the steps to add weight and stability.

Concrete-Filled PVC Pipes

You can also create your own weights by filling PVC pipes with concrete and capping off the ends securely. These can be hung from the sides of the steps or placed inside, providing an effective and removable weight.

Attach Additional Weights

If your pool steps have railings or braces, you can attach additional weights to them. For example, you could use zip ties to secure a bucket filled with rocks to the brace of the stairs. Ensure that any weights are securely attached and do not pose a hazard to swimmers.

Remember, it is important to regularly clean and maintain your pool stairs to prevent the growth of algae, especially in areas with poor circulation. Weighing down the stairs will help improve safety and stability, but it is also crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take appropriate measures to secure the stairs properly.

Drilling holes in the stairs to improve circulation

Drilling holes in the stairs is a common method to improve circulation in wedding cake pool stairs. This is because the wedding cake design is known for its poor circulation, which makes it a breeding ground for algae and bacteria.

To improve circulation, you can drill additional holes in the stairs using a drill motor and a 2" hole saw. The size of the drill bit is important, as you don't want to risk anyone getting their hand caught in the holes. It is recommended to use a 1 1/2" spade/paddle bit for safety. There can also be too many holes, so be sure not to go overboard.

Drilling holes in the stairs will allow water to circulate through the steps, preventing stagnant water, which can lead to algae and bacteria growth. It is important to ensure that the holes are not blocked, as this will defeat the purpose of improving circulation.

In addition to drilling holes, you can also improve circulation by manually cleaning dead areas behind the pool steps, using a robotic cleaner, or ensuring that water levels are at least halfway up the skimmer, ideally at the two-thirds level. Maintaining proper water levels ensures that the pump is not running dry, which can damage it.

Using a cover for the stairs during winter

If you're looking to keep your wedding cake pool stairs in the pool during winter, you'll need to take some steps to protect them and your pool. Wedding cake stairs are notorious for poor circulation, which can lead to a build-up of algae, so it's important to take preventative measures.

First, remove the handrails from the stairs if possible. This will ensure that they don't stick through your pool cover, which could cause damage. You can store the handrails indoors until spring. Next, you'll want to invest in a good-quality cover that's specifically designed for pool stairs. Look for something durable and waterproof, like a black patio furniture cover. You may also need bungee cords or zip ties to secure the cover tightly over the stairs.

Before covering the stairs, it's a good idea to give them a thorough cleaning to remove any dirt, debris, or algae. You may also want to tip the stairs onto their side and move them to the middle of the pool, especially if you live in an area with freezing temperatures and ice. This will help prevent damage to the stairs and your pool liner.

Additionally, consider using removable weights to secure the stairs instead of filling them with sand. This will make it easier to remove the weights and take out the stairs in the future if needed. Removable weights can include bleach bottles or PVC pipes filled with sand, gravel, or concrete. By using a combination of these strategies, you can effectively protect your wedding cake pool stairs during the winter months.

Cleaning the stairs after removing them

Once you have removed your wedding cake pool stairs, you will need to give the area a thorough clean. Wedding cake stairs are notorious for their poor circulation, which makes them an ideal breeding ground for algae.

First, scrub the area where the stairs were vigorously with a pool brush. You may also want to use a turkey baster to shoot some chlorine water into the step cavities. If you have access to one, a robot cleaner can be very helpful for giving the pool a deep clean.

Next, you will need to deal with the weights that were holding down the stairs. If you were using sand, you will need to vacuum the residue away. If you used rocks, you will need to scrub them and ensure they are free of algae before replacing them.

If you want to avoid the issue of algae-ridden weights, you could consider switching to a different type of weight. Some alternatives include:

• Filling empty bleach and milk jugs with concrete
• Filling 3-4 inch PVC pipes with driveway rock
• Using 50lb bags of filter sand
• Using a collapsible water jug filled with sand
• Filling 3" PVC pipes with cement and attaching eyebolts
• Using a small bucket with drainage holes and filling it with rocks

Frequently asked questions