Do I Really Need to Add All the Sand to the Bottom of My Above Ground Pool?

Pool Liners

• Above-ground pool liners are fragile. In most cases, the liners are made out of nothing more than thin vinyl. This means that any rocks, wood pieces or roots can penetrate the liner. Even more surprising, according to some manufacturer’s certain grasses, such as nut grass, can grow up through the liner, causing leaks. The fact is that liners are flimsy, so the liners need a soft surface, like sand, to insulate it from such damage.

Layers Under the Liner

• According to most pool manufacturers, there is more to preparing a proper substrate than simply using sand. The first step is removing any vegetation from under the pool’s area. This means cutting out sod. Next, manufacturers recommend tamping down an inch of ground limestone. The limestone is sturdy, yet slightly flexible, and offers the liner some shock absorption. Finally, on top of the limestone, you install brick sand. Brick sand is a fine sand that packs down firmly.

Cove

• Along with the sand at the bottom of the pool, you must also install a curved cove along the bottom edge of the pool’s walls. This cove takes the pressure off of the bottom corners of the frame and pushes it to the middle of the pool. When building the cove, you also use brick sand and firmly pack it into place.

Alternative

• Some companies offer a thick rubber pad that can be used instead of sand on the limestone surface. This pad offers the same protection and durability that sand offers, but without the mess. However, installing the rubber pad is not a substitute for building the cove. So, no matter what, you’ll be working with some sand during your pool installation.