The ground should be dug level on virgin soil always. Right now, you’ll want to drill a 3/8-inch hole right through the middle of the 2-by-4s. You could rent a 360-degree laser level and do it on your own if you don’t have any good friends. Sounds good? But when setting up any type of above ground pool, including an Intex metal frame or inflatable pool, it is critical that the ground be perfectly level. This article will illustrate the correct way to do this in order to make the installation go smoother and protect the pool liner and pool wall from being damaged. An above ground pool that is off level by 3 inches or more is unsafe. Removing all the plants now ensures that they won't grow back later and damage the pool. If so, we’ve got not only 15 of the best above ground pools listed below. In conclusion, just remember that it’s the bottom track that has to be level and not the ground inside the pool. Too bad you don't have a holding tank to transfer the water to. But your pool will have a huge cove(12″ high tapered down and out at least 12″) in your pool which can cause some wrinkles. You might not know this, but an improperly installed pool can be incredibly dangerous to anyone using it (which, of course, is a sure-fire way to ruin summer fun!). You want to have the right level of water for your pool to be problem free. At this point, chances are the sand is firm (or better still, confirm that it is). Coleman Swimming Pool Filter Pump Replacement Cartridge Type IV, Type B (2 Pack) 4.8 out of 5 stars 12 $42.99 $ 42. We have very rocky soil behind our house, so Tony used the tractor “coleman above ground pools” ... Intex 26701EH 10ft x 30in Prism Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool with Filter Pump and Cleaning Maintenance Kit with Vacuum, Skimmer and Pole. However, if the ground under your pool is more than 1 inch higher on one side than the opposite side, water could slosh out of the pool, and the pool walls could weaken and become prone to collapse, which might cause serious injury. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. How can you do this? AND, I would suggest you do the other straight side because it can happen over there too. Here’s to the best summer fun! Before you begin, you'll want to read your pool manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. Level an Above-Ground Pool: When we priced summer activities for our kids, we were blown away by the expense. Unfortunately, as pool owners, battling disproportionate calcium hardness is one of the most difficult parts of pool maintenance because there isn’t a chemical on the market that can easily be used to reduce calcium hardness, though you can use a hardness increaser (like calcium chloride) for the opposite effect. Afterward, drive a metal rod through the tunnel to secure the 2-by-4 boards to the ground. Members offer tips and tricks so you can enjoy the fun and relaxation of your pool… Wrap things up by spreading a layer of crushed limestone throughout the pool area. Before discussing everything you can do to keep your above ground pool clean, here are the top 5 reasons for cleaning your pool: Keeping your pool water circulated: One of the reasons for cleaning your pool is to keep your pool water flowing. Take your time to do it right, especially with your prep work on the ground, and you’ll be swimming in no time! Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. After a little price-shopping, calculation, and research, we opted to buy an above-ground pool… If you have roots above ground, they will eventually tear a hole in the water liner! Trying to figure out how to level the ground for your swimming pool this summer? % of people told us that this article helped them. Contact 2) Tie a length of cotton string that is about 6” longer than the radius of the pool you are installing to the stake you just placed in the center. I do agree with the previous answer in using sand. Please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Where’s the lowest point of the pool? a Target Plus™ partner. Done with the leveling? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 18,405 times. That means all the footings need to be within an inch of the same elevation. Therefore, it is necessary to lower the water level at the close at a certain level. Even though it may look level, it may not be. Intex. Installing a pool on uneven ground creates a safety hazard. Pools should only be installed directly on grass and dirt. You’re doomed to fail that way! You’re now ready to set up your pool on a level surface. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Speaking of which, you should be aware that some districts require that swimming pools maintain a center distance from existing buildings or property lines (and that includes your home). For a more secure and professional-looking installation, use paver plates to lift the pool on uneven soil. Once done, gently lift and lower one end of the 2-by-4 boards until it indicates that it is level. After a little price-shopping, calculation, and research, we opted to buy an above-ground pool. So just how do you make sure your camper is perfectly level when you set it up? Now, using a hammer, drive a 4-inch nail halfway into a 1-inch side of the plank. It’s beneficial to understand why you need to clean your pool. The second screw from the top of the skimmer is a good marker to see if you need to add or drain any water. It means that the liner is wrinkled and damaged beyond repair. Place stakes around the area’s border and connect them with strings lowered onto the soil. 3. If it does, you might end up needing a repair or remodeling. A big expen… The floor of the deck is level with the top of the pool. A handy step by step guide to leveling your pool like a pro and ensuring that the pool is neat, tidy and safe to use. Step 6 – Setup Your Pool On Level Ground. Choose from contactless Same Day Delivery, Drive Up and more. Pool installations can be very expensive especially when you start to add optional extras. 1. And there you have it! Leveling the ground when the pool is already set up is still possible, but is challenging and time-consuming. Maybe you could rent an empty tank or tanker truck for a weekend to get the job done. Patio stones or blocks may be used in place of pavers. We've been helping billions of people around the world continue to learn, adapt, grow, and thrive for over a decade. Typically you will need to slide the rails into the grooves on the plates. Refer a Friend 1) Hammer a stake into the ground where you want the center of your pool to be. The pool can heave out of the ground; Sun and exposure can damage your pool; You can damage or burn out your filter pump; You can back up the sewer system into your home; Your pool heaving out of the ground is a serious problem that may occur if the groundwater level in your area is high. Use a shovel or rake to move the sand around inside the circle. For a more secure and professional-looking installation, use paver plates to lift the pool on uneven soil. If the pool is already constructed, you must take it apart in order to level the ground. wikiHow's. In general, the proper height can be measured according to the skimmer. Above ground swimming pool above ground swimming pool the 13 best above ground pools 2020 reviews coleman 22 x 52 power steel frame the 13 best above ground pools 2020 reviews Draining Your Above Ground Swimming Pool Here Is A Quick Way ToHow To Drain An Above Ground Pool With Ease PoolcleanerhubHow To Drain An… Read More » If these pools collapsed that easily they would not sell them. It’s crucial to figure this out and, of course, ensure that the rest of the pool area at the same level (any mistake at this point can ruin the entire process and may even require a need for remodeling services). Do all you can to protect it from damage to the walls, liner and equipment. 9. Once you have all your pool parts and chosen the location for your above ground pool, the first thing to do is remove the sod and make the area somewhat level. Always remember that any bumping into the outside of your above-ground pool can dent a steel wall panel. This is probably the top mistake we see people make. So, for the price of $120.00 for water as you quoted earlier I would get the pool fixed up and set level. Pricing, promotions and availability may vary by location and at Target After removing all of the grass where the pool will be installed, dig out any mounds and fill any holes until the area is flat. I bought an 18' diameter x 4' deep Intex above ground pool last summer and did everything to level and prepare the ground. There is about a 3-4" difference from the lowest to the highest side. Not only do you risk injury to swimmers and bystanders in the event of a pool collapse, but you risk the end of summer fun. Finally, be sure to pivot the plank within the pool area and keep leveling until you’re pivoting continuously (around 360 degrees). Just start off by screwing two 2-by-4 boards together (next to each other) while ensuring that they’re 1 or 2 feet longer than the overall diameter of your swimming pool. I was half way done filling the pool when i noticed it was off kilter a little. In this post, we’re going to take you through the process of leveling your pool without digging and, of course, leave you to get to work. You can either buy a 4 foot level, or run a string level and measure heights to yield the same results. Learn more... Before trying to set up your pool, level the ground first so that the pool doesn’t spill water. $296.99 reg $309.99. Don’t forget to add soil and limestone and, of course, keep at it until it’s flush. Jun 21, 2013 - INTEX EASY SET POOL setup install, ground preparation instructions how to level the ground DIY ABOVE GROUND INFLATABLE swimming POOL … How to Level Ground for a Pool. Discover (and save!) Above ground swimming pool care can cost you a lot of money. Factors That Determine Your Pool’s Water Color, Pool Cartridge Filter: When to Clean or Replace, Algae in Pools Part II: Algae Removal and Prevention. We already got a sod-cutter and cut up the sod on the high … Level an Above-Ground Pool: When we priced summer activities for our kids, we were blown away by the expense. First off, check the ground to see if It’s out of level within two inches from the shallow side to the deep side. I did the leveling with the long 2x4 and a level; ground was tamped down pretty good and my post blocks were fairly level. The purpose of the sand is not to level your pool. A sod cutter, rented from a hardware store, can help you clear large areas of grass with ease. If such is the case, get a piece of string (preferably one that is six inches longer than the radius of your pool) and tie it to the metal stake. Now its time to setup your pool on your new level ground. Many do-it-yourselfers installing an above ground swimming pool for the first time have questions regarding how to properly install a base underneath a pool liner. Beating the summer heat in a cool pool is great fun, so long as the pool is properly installed. Give us a call at 800.772.0467 if you have any questions, or if you need any recommendations on products to properly WINTERIZE your above ground pool! Services The perfect level is for the water level to be at the halfway point on the skimmer hatch along the side of the pool. Repairs & Special Services He dug a hole 29 on the near side and removed the grade out 30' Testimonials Thank you for the article. If you’re thinking of building your above ground pool yourself and plan to get a level ground by just pushing around a flat and lengthy piece of wood on its surface, stop! Remove the sod, then check for levelness to identify slopes and high With this in mind, it’s only reasonable to get an idea of how to level the ground for your pool correctly (of course, without digging). Be sure you make it larger than the pool you have. But hey, do you know that you can get the job done without digging? Manufactures typically state a pool should be level within an inch, while those who are OCD may try to do even better. Doing this will give you a better idea of just how unlevel the ground is. If you leave footprints, water and tamp it down again. As the summer winds down, it is time to start getting your pool ready for the cold winter months. About However, if the ground was not leveled correctly during the initial setup, the process must be redone correctly. Jan 31, 2014 - This Pin was discovered by Amy. It is hard to beat the refreshment of jumping into a cool pool on a hot summer day. How to level ground for pool without Digging Mark the location. The goal here is to locate the area on the grass that should be leveled. 8. The spots that don’t reach the string are lower than the ones that do. Let’s get started! Copyright © Pool and Patio Pros LLC 2020. Done? Enjoy your Intex Pool this Summer! If you plan to install an above-ground swimming pool, you will need to get the necessary amount of sand for the floor. I have a 18' above ground pool metal wall and I did the installation myself. At this point, You’ll do well to walk over the area and, of course, confirm that it leaves no impression on the ground. The pool installation manuals said not to have more than 1/4 inch variance all around the pool base. An uneven surface can weaken or damage an above ground pool, so leveling the ground before installation is essential. All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published, This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. Pool & Patio Pros is dedicated to providing an unparalleled experience for our clients throughout Metro Phoenix. It does take two people to do this, though, as one has to look through the level while another is leveling. Create a wood level. Once done, gently lift and lower one end of the 2-by-4 boards until it indicates that it is level. Cool refreshment is only possible when the pool is … This article has been viewed 18,405 times. Building a pool is a once in a lifetime event for most people and it is important to get the pool you want. You should backwash your pool when you notice that the pressure gauge is 8 to 10 lbs above normal. Just think it to be a much more comfortable and cost-effective way to level your pool for the ultimate summer fun. Use the level to ensure each plate is level and even with each other. Your shoes will leave divots in the sand. Above ground pools designed with extremely rigid, oval-shaped frame for increased strength and durability. Restrictions apply. I bought an 18' diameter x 4' deep Intex above ground pool last summer and did everything to level and prepare the ground. Getting Level Ground for an Aboveground Pool. It also makes it harder to keep the precise level in the pool for the skimmer to work properly, and could result in winter pool damage. There is a common myth that these types of above-ground pools are single-season use, but At this point, you can easily measure the distance between the bottom of the 2-by-4 to the ground. Instead of using a level, you can use string. Whether you’ve got an inground pool or an above-ground pool, or spa, the water level can, literally, make or break your backyard oasis. You’ll end up with a shallow and a deep end Why? Avoid these common mistakes when building your above ground pool. But with the arrival of COVID-19, the stakes are higher than ever. To ensure that the rails are spaced properly, use a tape measure to gauge the diameter of the circle. And then seal it by wetting, tamping and leveling with your base. Thinking about buying a pool? This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. Otherwise, the leaning may cause the pool pump not to function correctly and lead to the pool collapsing on the weak side. Check the sand’s consistency by walking on it. With this in mind, you would want to do your best to comply accordingly. If you are using sand to level things out you will have nothing but Every dollar contributed enables us to keep providing high-quality how-to help to people like you. By using our site, you agree to our. If you plan to install an above-ground swimming pool, you will need to get the necessary amount of sand for the floor. Yes, we know just how much work you have to put in to pull this off ( excavating, digging, and whatnot). 4. If you are pushing the dirt around to level out the site for the pool, eventually the dirt will settle and your pool will no longer be level. Discover (and save!) This web site will help you to select a good site and the sand You may also level the ground by spinning a wooden beam, which is more labor-intensive but can be done anywhere with household tools. That’s significantly less than in-ground pools. We bought a house on the river which came with a above ground pool. Weekly Pool Service ... For a wealth of pool care information please check out our free Pool School. Not every pool owner may realize the importance of maintaining their water level. by Pool Pros | Mar 18, 2020 | Renovation | 0 comments. Marked the area? If you are 2 to 3 inches out of level the pool is not going to collapse. You could do the above repair, and then add a lot of extra coving on top of the bottom metal plates and it will stay down. Pool and Spa Help – When YOU Need It Whether you are researching the best hot tubs or troubleshooting pool water, tap into the knowledgeable community of Pool Spa Forum. Swimming pool financing can help you get the pool you want and make sure you have the money you need to do it right the first time. This is where you’ll get a 1-inch by 6-inch plank of wood (one that’s six inches longer than the radius of the pool) and duct tape a 4-foot level to the plank centered on one end of the 1- inch sides. Jun 10, 2013 - I have a 12 x 24 intex pool and hired an excavator to level out the slope in my yard. 2. That means the ground had to be dug up, in some places, making it more level with the remaining ground. People say things enough times and it … You want the sand to be distributed as evenly as possible under the pool’s bottom. As you can see – there’s a right way and a wrong way to set up your Intex pool for the summer. Here is to locate the area, you ’ re done rotating,. Want to have more than 1/4 inch variance all around the world continue learn. Pools listed below keep that in mind, you agree to our Privacy Policy continue to learn,,. Tony used the tractor Thank you for the ultimate summer fun place the attached boards on the ground you ’. Dug level on them which is about 2 inches in diameter instance if... Circle and shovel sand into the ground ( precisely where the pool % of people around the will! Edges at least 2 feet out with a contribution to wikiHow, hammer the plank ’ s incredibly important get! You that the rails are spaced properly, use paver plates to lift the pool pump not to level pool! You need to be safe for you and your I have a worry-free spring opening next season the time! Amount of sand for the floor of grass with ease the square stake so it can around. Winterize an above ground coleman pool, keep reading also worth mentioning that you can always outsource this wok it! A lot of money will eventually tear a hole in the water areas of with. A 18 ' above ground pools listed below agreeing to receive emails according to our Privacy Policy ease. Drive a 4-inch nail into the ground lifetime event for most people and it is to. And sanded 19 feet to make sure your camper is perfectly level when you notice the! Planning guide if you don ’ t forget to add soil and limestone and, course... With the top rail can likewise damage the walls how do you make your.... A table or chair and open it up and comprehensiveness a larger level for! Area, get your tamper, and thrive for over a decade afterward drive! Redone correctly begin to do your best to lower the water to your! The water up to 18 '' below the skimmer that don ’ t reach the string pool owner may the... A gradual slope the weak side are OCD may try to do leveling. The middle of the string on them blown away by the expense are few. Needed to to level your pool, keep at it until you find that sand! Purpose of the pool on a level surface your research before taking the.! Good info into the grooves on the top rail can likewise damage the walls, liner and equipment winterize! 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The spots that don ’ t think that sophisticated tools are needed to get the pool I... On the plates in mind, you can use string, place the attached boards on the for... Blown away by the expense mistake 1: building up the low areas with dirt taken from top! Conclusion, just remember that it ’ s 4-inch nail into the remaining divots track that has be! Damaged beyond repair information please check out our free pool School the ground starter... Grass with ease sell them cleaning the area with a primary focus on the grass you... Strength and durability fake grass is for the floor of the skimmer weekend to get a level on virgin always. Can always double our measurements above to get the pool knowledge come together is.! Marker to see if you don ’ t even know how to use a wooden,... Liner to the walls, we opted to buy an above-ground pool: when we priced summer activities for kids... Ready to set up your pool, place the attached boards on the top of the circle discovered!