How do you set up an above ground pool? - Project Sports
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How do you set up an above ground pool?

6 min read

Asked by: Denise Wagner

How do you prepare the ground for an above ground pool?

How to Prep Ground for an Above-Ground Pool

  1. Choose the best area of your yard to set up your pool. …
  2. Remove all sod and other vegetation from the area. …
  3. Determine the lowest point of the pool area. …
  4. Create a wood level. …
  5. Replace the metal stake with a 2-inch square wooden stake hammered flush with the ground.

What should you put under an above ground pool?

Things You Can Put Under Your Pool

  1. Concrete Pads.
  2. Commercial Pads.
  3. Sand.
  4. Solid Foam.
  5. Carpet Padding.
  6. Flooring Underlayment.


What is the first thing to do for an above ground pool?

It's time to fire it up make sure the system starts and check for any leaks or drips. And make sure the ground wires are properly connected to the pump.

Do you have to prep ground for above ground pool?

To make sure your ground is level you can either:



The entire area should be within 1 inch of being perfectly level. If the ground is not level dig down any high areas (don’t build up low areas) to prevent the pool from settling over time.

Do I need a tarp under my pool?

At the bare minimum, yes you should put a tarp underneath your Intex pool. Inflatable pools, Bestway and Summer Ways pools will also benefit from a tarp. What is this? Although a tarp will help protect your pool there are far better choices such as foam tiles or proper commercial under pool pads.

How many bags of sand do I need for an above ground pool?

How Much Sand Will I Need For Pool Installation?

Amount for Sand Base with SAND COVE
Pool Size Yards of Sand Tons of Sand
12′ Round 1.00 1.40
15′ Round 1.50 2.00
18′ Round 2.00 3.00

How do I level my ground for a pool without digging?

The use of sand is one of the cheapest ways in which to level the ground without digging, and it is far easier to level the sand than it is to level the ground itself. Sand can be poured on the installation area, spread evenly around the region, and compacted down to create the level ground.

How long does it take to install an above ground pool?

The installation of an above ground pool can generally be completed by an experienced pool installation crew in about 4-6 hours.

What kind of foam goes under a pool?

And then laying the table along seams and just ensuring that the seams are tight by squeezing it together and just putting you know those squares.

What’s the best way to level a pool?

  1. STEP 1: Determine your location and remove any large rocks or debris. …
  2. STEP 2: Place 2x4s on the site and place a level on top. …
  3. STEP 3: Add or take away soil until the ground is level. …
  4. STEP 4: Repeat the process until the entire area is flat. …
  5. STEP 5: Rake any remaining rocks or debris and tamp the ground.
  6. How level does the ground need to be for an above ground pool?

    An above ground pool needs to be setup on level ground. Manufactures typically state a pool should be level within an inch, while those who are OCD may try to do even better. An above ground pool that is off level by 3 inches or more is unsafe.

    What happens if you don’t level a pool?

    The water will press with more force on one section of the pool than the others. This uneven weight distribution can buckle, twist or even collapse the pool wall, resulting in property damage and injury to anyone in or around the pool when it fails.

    Should you put sand under a pool?

    Sand is the recommended base material upon which an aboveground pool should sit. Sand is used under an aboveground pool to protect the pool’s vinyl liner from rocks and objects that could tear the liner. Also, sand under an aboveground pool acts as cushioning for its floor, making it more comfortable for feet.

    Is it OK if my Intex pool is not level?

    It’s possible to have your Intex pool unlevel to be two inches off. This won’t cause any structural issues so you can still use your swimming pool. Any more than two inches is unacceptable. Intex pools that are more than two inches off won’t last long and can be too dangerous for you and your family to use.

    Do you have to put pavers under pool legs?

    It is best to put a 1ft-by-1ft concrete block paver under each leg of your above ground pool. These blocks can take the pressure and they don’t get mold, insects, or other forms of deterioration issues. By properly supporting the pool legs, you won’t damage the legs over time and have to dig them out to remove later.

    Can you put an above ground pool on pavers?

    Pavers must sit on solid earth, level and covered up with a solid layer of 3-4 inches of compacted stone dust inside the pool. This will make for a solid base and a professional pool bottom that will last the lifetime of the pool. Pools are heavy when water is in them. Make sure the pavers are on solid earth!

    Why do above ground pools collapse?

    Pool Collapse – An above ground pool collapse is often caused by the results of ice damage, but it can also happen when there is too much snow accumulated on top of the pool and the frame cannot handle the weight.

    How often should you change above ground pool water?

    Generally, pool water needs to be replaced once every five to seven years. This should be done during mild weather so that your pool surface is not at risk from strong sunlight and heat. Your pool maintenance company can recommend when it is time to drain your pool.

    Is an above ground pool worth it?

    An above-ground pool is, by far, the least expensive option for a pool. Kids love them, and built-in fencing and locking gate options make them safe. The main disadvantage of an above-ground pool is that it generally adds no value to your home.

    Can you leave an above ground pool empty during winter?

    It’s possible to leave your above-ground pool up all winter with the water in it, since draining it completely may cause it to collapse.

    Where do you drain the water in an above ground pool?

    Submerge the pool pump’s intake hose under the water, as close to the center of the swimming pool as possible. Choose a space on your property for the pump’s outlet hose to drain. This area should be away from the pool and the ground should be level to avoid flooding.

    How long does a above ground pool liner last?

    6-10 years

    Vinyl pool liners typically come with warranties of 20-30 years, which can be misleading, because this is not the typical lifespan of an average pool liner. In most cases, you can expect inground pool liners to last between 6-12 years, and above ground pool liners to last 6-10 years.