How to Level Poolside Cement

Calculate the amount of slope by multiplying the width of the concrete pad by 1/4-inch. For a 8-foot wide pad the slope is 2 inches.

Dig down six inches, plus the thickness of the concrete pad, around the entire sub-grade. Fill the bottom six inches with gravel. This provides a solid base for the concrete to rest on.

Hammer a wood stake into the ground directly next to the pool. Hammer a second stake into the ground at a distance a little further than the width of the concrete pad.

Tie a string to the first stake about 3/4 from the top. Run the string to the second stake and loosely tie it so that you can adjust its height.

Place the level on top of the string and move the string up and down on the second stake until the bubble on the level is centered. Repeat this process around the entire pool's circumference.

Mark the position of the string on the second stake. Measure the distance calculated for the slope in Step 1 and mark that measurement below the first on the second stake. Move the string on the second stake down to the new marked location.

Fasten the form boards to the stakes using the string as a guide for the height. The top of the board should be an even distance from the string on both sides. Repeat this process to install the form boards around the pool with the same slope.

Pour concrete into the form boards until it is the required depth. Trowel the concrete until smooth and allow to dry for several hours. Trowel one more time to give the pad a smooth surface.