Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to backfill an above ground pool. Many homeowners find this process intimidating, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be an easy DIY project. Backfilling is the process of filling the area around the pool after it has been installed, providing stability and support to the structure. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, from choosing the right location for your pool to adding the finishing touches.
Before starting the process, it’s important to note that every installation is unique. The type of soil, weather conditions, and the type of pool you have will all play a role in determining the backfill process. However, by following our step-by-step guide, you’ll have a solid understanding of how to backfill an above ground pool properly.
So, if you’re ready to learn how to backfill an above ground pool, let’s dive in!
Ready to get started? Let’s take the first step to backfilling your above ground pool properly by picking the right location.
Table of Contents
Pick the Right Location for the Pool
When it comes to backfilling an above ground pool, one of the most important factors to consider is its location. The first step is to identify an area that is relatively flat and free from any obstructions such as trees or rocks. Additionally, ensure that the location is accessible to a power source and is not too far from your home.
Another essential aspect to consider when picking the right location is the amount of sunlight that the area receives. Ideally, the area should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. This will help keep the pool water warm and free from algae growth.
It is also crucial to ensure that the area you pick for the pool is not prone to flooding. A flooded pool can not only damage the pool but also create a dangerous situation for anyone who uses it. Therefore, it is important to choose a location that is not in a low-lying area or prone to flooding.
One crucial point to keep in mind is to call 811 before digging. It is a free service that will locate underground utility lines to prevent any potential accidents.
Finally, it is important to check with your local authorities if there are any specific requirements or permits that need to be obtained before installing an above ground pool in your area.
Pick the Right Location for the Pool
Choose a Flat and Stable Area
Level ground: Start by choosing a flat and level location for your above ground pool. A level base will ensure that the water is evenly distributed and prevent the pool from shifting or sagging over time.
Stable ground: Look for a location that has stable soil, free from rocks, tree roots, or any other debris that could damage the pool liner. It is also important to avoid areas with excessive moisture, such as wetlands or areas prone to flooding.
Clearance: Ensure that there is enough clearance around the pool to accommodate any pool accessories or equipment, such as ladders or a filter system. Also, make sure that the pool is at least 6 feet away from any trees, fences, or other structures.
Accessibility: Consider accessibility when choosing a location. It should be a spot that is easily accessible from your home and provides enough space for people to walk around the pool. Additionally, if you plan to install a deck, ensure that the location is suitable for deck construction.
Choosing the right location for your above ground pool is crucial to ensure that it lasts for years to come. A flat, stable, and well-cleared location with proper accessibility will provide a great foundation for your pool.
Choose the Backfill Material
After picking the right location, you need to choose the appropriate backfill material. The material will provide a sturdy foundation for your pool, so it is essential to choose the right one.
The most common backfill materials are sand, gravel, and a mixture of soil and stone. Sand is perfect for pools with soft soil, while gravel is better for pools with rocky soil. A mixture of soil and stone is suitable for all types of soil but may need more compaction.
If you decide to use sand or soil, it’s crucial to use a geotextile fabric. This fabric is placed between the soil and pool liner to prevent rocks or roots from puncturing the liner.
If you’re unsure of what backfill material to use, consult a professional pool builder or contractor. They can help you choose the best material that suits your pool’s needs and the soil type in your area.
Consider Different Backfill Materials Available
Gravel: This is the most popular backfill material. It allows for proper drainage and supports the pool’s structure. It’s also easy to level.
Sand: This material is commonly used for above ground pools because it’s cheap and easy to find. It’s also easy to level and provides a soft cushion for the pool’s bottom.
Crushed Stone: This material is good for areas with poor drainage. It provides a strong base for the pool, but it’s difficult to level and can be expensive.
Dirt: This is the cheapest backfill material. However, it’s not recommended because it doesn’t provide proper drainage and can lead to instability in the pool’s structure.
To choose the best backfill material, consider factors such as the soil condition, climate, and budget. Consult with a professional if you’re unsure about the appropriate backfill material for your pool.
Decide on the Type of Backfill Material to Use
Gravel: Gravel is a popular choice for backfilling as it allows for good drainage and compaction. It is recommended for areas with high water tables or in areas with high rainfall.
Sand: Sand is another popular choice for backfilling as it is easy to work with and provides good drainage. However, it is not recommended for areas with high water tables or in areas with high rainfall as it can wash away easily.
Crushed Stone: Crushed stone is a durable and long-lasting backfill material that provides excellent drainage. It is recommended for areas with high traffic or heavy loads.
Soil: If you are on a tight budget, using soil as a backfill material is a cost-effective option. However, it is not recommended for areas with high water tables or in areas with high rainfall as it does not provide good drainage.
Prepare the Ground for Backfilling
Clear the Area: The first step to prepare the ground for backfilling is to clear the area where you will install the pool. Remove any debris, rocks, or roots from the area to ensure a smooth surface for the pool base.
Level the Ground: Once the area is cleared, use a shovel or a rake to level the ground. This is crucial for ensuring the pool is level and stable once it’s installed.
Compact the Soil: After leveling, compact the soil using a tamper or plate compactor. This will help prevent settling and unevenness once the pool is installed.
Install a Ground Cloth: To prevent weeds and grass from growing under your pool, install a ground cloth. This will also provide a smooth surface for the pool base.
Remove Any Vegetation and Debris
Clear the area: Use a shovel or a sod cutter to remove all grass, plants, and other vegetation. Make sure to also remove any rocks, sticks, or other debris that may be in the way.
Level the ground: Use a rake to smooth out the soil and ensure that the ground is level. This will prevent any unevenness under the pool.
Inspect for underground utilities: Contact your local utility companies to identify and mark any underground utilities, such as gas or electric lines, that may be in the area.
Consider using a barrier: To prevent weeds or grass from growing up through the backfill material, consider laying down a barrier material, such as landscaping fabric or a layer of sand.
Removing any vegetation and debris is an important step to ensure that the ground is prepared for backfilling. By taking the time to clear the area and level the ground, you can create a smooth and stable surface for your above ground pool.
Mark the Pool’s Location and Dig a Trench
Step 1: Start by marking the location where the above ground pool will be installed. Using spray paint or stakes and string, mark a circle that is slightly larger than the pool’s diameter. This will ensure that there is enough space for the pool and the backfill material.
Step 2: Next, dig a trench along the circumference of the circle. The trench should be about 2-3 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the pool’s bottom rail. Use a level to ensure that the trench is level all the way around.
Step 3: If the area where the pool will be installed is not level, it may be necessary to excavate deeper in some areas to create a level surface. Use a level to check the depth and make adjustments as necessary.
Step 4: Once the trench is dug and the area is level, you can start to lay the pool’s bottom track. This will be the first piece of the pool’s frame that you will assemble.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the above ground pool is installed properly and will provide you with many years of enjoyment. Keep reading to learn more about the backfilling process and how to finish the installation of your pool.
Ensure the Ground is Firm and Level
Before you start backfilling, make sure the ground is firm and level. Use a level and a straightedge to check the ground’s levelness, and make sure that the ground is firm enough to support the weight of the pool and the backfill material.
If you notice any low spots or areas that need to be built up, use a shovel or a rake to even out the ground. If the ground is too soft or unstable, you may need to add more soil and pack it down to create a solid foundation.
It’s important to take the time to properly prepare the ground, as this will help ensure that your pool remains level and stable for years to come. A poorly prepared foundation can lead to settling and shifting, which can cause structural problems with the pool and make it difficult to maintain.
Once you have ensured that the ground is firm and level, you can proceed with the backfilling process.
Level the Backfill Material Evenly
Step 1: Once the backfill material is in place, use a rake to level it evenly. Make sure to fill any gaps or low spots to ensure a uniform base.
Step 2: Compact the backfill material as you go. A plate compactor or tamper can be used to ensure the backfill is firmly packed and level.
Step 3: Check the level of the backfill material with a straight board or level tool. Ensure that the backfill is level from one side to another and front to back.
Step 4: Continue to fill and level the backfill until the level of the backfill material is even with the surrounding area.
Step 5: After leveling the backfill, water the area to help settle the soil. Allow the area to settle for a few days before moving on to the next step.
Spread the Backfill Material Evenly Around the Pool
Begin by spreading a layer of backfill material around the perimeter of the pool, creating a level surface for the rest of the backfill to be added to.
Using a rake, evenly spread the backfill material in 6-inch layers. Compact each layer with a tamper before adding the next layer to ensure a solid and level base.
Pay special attention to the area around the pool walls and steps, making sure that the backfill is evenly distributed and firmly packed to prevent settling or shifting in the future.
Continue adding layers of backfill material until the area around the pool is level with the surrounding ground. Use a level to check that the surface is even and adjust as necessary.
Once the backfill is level and firm, you can begin installing the pool’s decking or other features to complete your backyard oasis.
Compact the Backfill Material Appropriately
Step 1: Use a plate compactor or a hand tamper to compact the backfill material in layers of 2-3 inches.
Step 2: Pay close attention to the areas around the pool walls and steps, as these areas require extra compaction.
Step 3: Repeat the process of adding more backfill material and compacting until the area is level with the top of the pool walls.
Compacting the backfill material is critical to ensure the pool has a solid foundation and doesn’t shift or settle over time.
Compact the Bottom of the Trench
Step 1: Use a compactor machine to compact the soil at the bottom of the trench in small sections. This will ensure a strong foundation for the pool.
Step 2: Repeat the process until the entire bottom of the trench is compacted. Make sure there are no soft spots or areas where the soil has not been properly compacted.
Step 3: Add a layer of sand to the bottom of the trench to create a smooth and level surface for the pool to rest on. The sand layer should be at least 2 inches thick.
Step 4: Use a rake to spread the sand evenly and make sure there are no high or low spots. Then use a compactor machine to compact the sand layer as well, using the same process as before.
Compact the Backfill Material in Layers
Determine the Appropriate Compaction Equipment: The type of equipment you use for compacting the backfill material depends on the size and depth of the pool. A plate compactor is suitable for small to medium-sized pools, while a roller or a vibrating drum compactor is more appropriate for larger pools.
Begin with a Thin Layer of Material: Add a layer of backfill material to the pool’s base and compact it using the appropriate equipment. The first layer should be no more than 6 inches thick.
Continue Adding Layers: Continue adding layers of backfill material, each no more than 6 inches thick. Compact each layer thoroughly before adding the next layer. This process will ensure that the backfill material is evenly distributed and compacted.
Pay Attention to the Edges: Pay special attention to the edges of the pool when compacting the backfill material. This is important to prevent the pool from shifting or settling over time.
Use Water to Compact the Backfill Material
Watering the backfill material is essential to compact it properly. You can use a garden hose or a sprinkler system to wet the area. The water should saturate the soil but not make it too muddy or create puddles.
Compaction Equipment such as a plate compactor or a jumping jack tamper is usually used to compact the soil. However, water is sometimes the only equipment necessary to compact the backfill material correctly.
Add Water Gradually to the soil to avoid over-saturation or flooding. The water should be added in small amounts and the soil should be allowed to absorb it before more is added.
Check the Compaction regularly to ensure that the backfill material is compacted evenly. You can use a handheld compaction meter or a heavy roller to check the compaction level. The goal is to achieve a compaction level of 95% or higher to ensure proper support for the pool.
Add Finishing Touches to Your Above Ground Pool
Clean the pool: Before using your new above ground pool, make sure to clean it thoroughly. Remove any debris, leaves, or dirt that may have accumulated during installation. Use a pool vacuum or skimmer to remove any unwanted objects or debris from the water.
Install pool accessories: Install any pool accessories that you may need or want, such as a pool ladder, a pool cover, or a pool heater. These will help enhance the functionality of your above ground pool and make it more comfortable to use.
Add landscaping: Add some landscaping around your pool area to create an attractive and welcoming outdoor space. You can add plants, flowers, or even a small patio area to make your pool area a relaxing and enjoyable spot to spend time with family and friends.
Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your above ground pool in good condition. Make sure to clean it regularly, balance the pool chemicals, and check the pool pump and filter system. A well-maintained pool will last longer and be more enjoyable to use in the long run.
Smooth the Backfill Material Surface
After compacting the backfill material, use a rake or a shovel to smooth out the surface. Make sure there are no large bumps or uneven areas that could cause problems later on.
Use a hand tamper to gently tap down any remaining high spots, and fill in any low areas with additional backfill material. Repeat this process until the surface is smooth and level.
Once the surface is smooth, lay down a layer of landscaping fabric to prevent weeds from growing up through the backfill material. This will help keep the area around your above ground pool looking neat and tidy.
Finally, add a layer of decorative mulch or rocks around the pool’s perimeter to give it a finished look. This will also help prevent erosion and protect the backfill material from the elements.
Add Landscaping Around the Pool Area
One way to make your above ground pool look more appealing is to add some landscaping around the pool area. Plants and flowers can add color and beauty to the space, while also providing privacy and shade.
When choosing plants, it’s important to consider their size and growth habits. Bushes and shrubs can provide a natural fence around the pool area, while trees can offer shade and privacy.
Another option is to add some decorative elements, such as stones or pavers. These can be used to create a walkway around the pool area or to define a seating area.
Whatever landscaping elements you choose, make sure they are placed a safe distance away from the pool itself to avoid any potential hazards. With some thoughtful planning and design, you can create a beautiful outdoor oasis that complements your above ground pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is backfilling in the context of an above ground pool?
Backfilling is the process of filling the space around an above ground pool with soil or gravel, to provide support to the pool walls and keep them in place.
What are the steps involved in backfilling an above ground pool?
The steps involved in backfilling an above ground pool include preparing the area, leveling the ground, installing the pool walls and supports, adding the backfill material, compacting the material, and finishing the surface.
What is the recommended type of backfill material to use for an above ground pool?
The recommended backfill material for an above ground pool is a combination of gravel and soil, which provides good drainage and stability. It is important to avoid using clay or organic soil, which can lead to shifting and settling over time.
How do you ensure the backfill material is evenly distributed around the pool?
To ensure the backfill material is evenly distributed around the pool, it should be added in layers and compacted as it is added. A hand tamper or plate compactor can be used to achieve a level and even surface.
What are the finishing touches that should be added to an above ground pool after backfilling?
After backfilling, the finishing touches that can be added to an above ground pool include landscaping around the pool area, installing a deck or patio, and adding a pool cover or fence for safety.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when backfilling an above ground pool?
Some common mistakes to avoid when backfilling an above ground pool include using improper backfill material, not compacting the material enough, and not ensuring a level surface. It is also important to avoid overfilling the pool, as this can put pressure on the walls and cause damage.