Using Sand Under An Above Ground Pool
Sand Base For Above Ground Pools
What to put under an above ground pool during installation is a very common question, and it seems what people ask about the most is sand. So we are going to discuss using sand as a base for your above ground pool, as well as other options.
Why Use Sand?
The reason you here most about sand for a pool base is likely because it is readily available most anywhere in the country. It is very common and can be found at home improvement stores and landscape supply depots. Sand is relatively cheap and if applied correctly can make for a very nice pool foundation. It isn't always the best material but it sure can work wonders.
When To Use Sand
The first thing that needs to be done is to determine the desired location for your pool. Start by removing grass, tree roots, glass, large rocks etc. from this area, working to create a flat spot for the pool to set on. If the earth here is soft and free of debris, using the natural earth is often best. Picking out small rocks and twigs may be all that is needed. Remember, if you don't need sand don't use it. Adding sand is not always a good idea when building an above ground swimming pool. Sand tends to be "foot printy" and very soft due to a lack of clay. This washed sand makes for an uneven pool floor making it hard to vacuum and uncomfortable to walk on. If you have determined that sand is needed due to excessive debris, use as little as possible. A good rule of thumb is to try to keep the thickness of the sand down to 2"-3" max if possible. Once the sand is in place, water it in with a garden hose to ensure that it settles and packs. This will make the bottom firmer and flatter.
When Not To Use Sand
As you can see, sand can help out tremendously if the ground is in bad shape. It will make a much nicer pool bottom in many cases, but it does have limitation. If you are installing an above ground swimming pool on a hard concrete surface avoid using sand. Rains will wash the sand out from under the pool liner when used on concrete or asphalt, allowing the liner to come in contact with the corners and sharp edges of the pool frame. When building on a surface like concrete, use Armor Shield and pool cove under the liner. You must use something or liner failure is sure to follow. I have covered this to a better extent on another blog. Just click here for details. Thanks for reading.
