For new pool owners who are interested in DIY projects, installing a pool yourself can lead to a lot of satisfaction – especially once you’ve completed the job and are swimming in the pool! With the proper tools, some DIY skills and a few helping hands it’s possible to install a pool yourself. So, how are above ground pools installed? Read on for the basics.
Sod Removal and Levelling
You’ll have to remove any grass that covers the area where you want to install your pool. You’ll also need to remove some extra grass from around the future perimeter of the pool. Once you’ve dug up the sod, you’ll need to level the ground by digging out any high spots. It’s very difficult to add soil to build up low spots as they’ll eventually be compacted by the weight of the water, so it’s best to always dig down to the lower levels.
Patio Stone Laying
You’ll need to countersink a number of patio stones into the ground. These provide the bases for the pool frame posts. The sides of the patio stones need to be flush with the ground and level with all the other patio stones to within 15 millimeters from one block to the next. Getting this measurement correct is a very important step, so it’s best to take your time to ensure it’s done exactly right. If you’re as little as 30 millimeters off level your pool walls could collapse.
Bottom Track, Posts, and Walls
Making sure your bottom track is perfectly leveled and round is another very important step in the installation process. Make sure to continually measure as each piece is laid. Your posts will need to be perfectly straight as well. Cutting corners at this stage could result in a collapsed pool. Take your time and get your measurements right.
Beveled Cove
A beveled cove is a six to eight-inch high layer of sand that is angled at 45 degrees along the inside edge of the pool. It will protect your pool liner from any metal pieces. It must be uniform around the entire perimeter or it may affect your liner installation. It’s also possible to use precut styrofoam to make this job somewhat easier.
Pool Liner
Try to plan your pool liner installation for a warm day. Allowing the liner to warm up in the sun will make it easier to install. Do not wear shoes when installing the linter. Socks or bare feet only! Although the installed liner will always have some wrinkles, you should try and keep the liner as wrinkle and fold free as possible.
Frame Completion
Complete the pool frame according to the pool manufacturer’s instructions. Keep checking to make sure everything is straight and level before loosely tightening the nuts and bolts. Pay extra attention that the top plates are level and once you’re sure everything is in place, completely tighten the bolts.
If you would rather not install your above ground pool yourself, just ask us instead. To learn more about our pools, download a brochure.