How to Level the Ground for Swimming Pool Installation
Leveling the ground for a swimming pool is primarily necessary when installing an aboveground pool. Since these types of pools sit on top of the ground, an even surface is required to adequately support the pool's weight. Also, a pool on ground that is not flat will settle unevenly and its lower side may eventually collapse, making the pool unusable. Level the area correctly before installation to avoid facing these problems. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Spray paint
- Stake
- Spade
- Shovel
- Rake
- Straightedge board
- Carpenter's level
Instructions
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1
Saturate the ground with a water hose where you plan to place the pool a few days before you remove any grass or soil. Water it until wet, but not soggy. The moist soil will be easier to remove than dry soil.
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2
Mark the area where you plan to place your pool with spray paint or another marking tool. Identify the middle of the pool area by setting a stake in the ground.
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3
Remove any rocks, sticks or other debris from the site before leveling. Avoid areas with tree roots as they could start to grow into the pool liner or frame.
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4
Look for the lowest spot in that area. Only remove the grass or soil from the high areas to make them equal to the low area. Do not add dirt to the low areas to level the ground. If filled just before installation, these spots will settle more, making for an uneven orientation of the pool when you fill it with water. Dig out the grass or soil with a spade or shovel. Remove only a little bit of the grass or soil at a time until the higher area appears visually level with the lower area.
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5
Cut any sod pieces from the higher area into one-foot-wide parallel strips with a spade. Cut the strips one foot long. Lift up an end of the sod by placing the spade underneath it. Cut through any grass roots to remove the sod piece. Roll up the pieces as you work. Dispose of the sod or install it in another area of your yard.
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6
Rake the area after removing the grass, sod or soil, if necessary, to even out the soil.
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7
Place a long straightedge board from the stake to the edge of the pool area once you believe you have the area level. Set a carpenter's level on top of the board to check if the site is level. Work around the area, moving the board and level, to check if all areas are even.
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8
Rake the soil or remove more grass or sod until the area is level, as verified by the carpenter's level.
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