Above-Ground Pool Installation and Materials

Pool Installation Basics

• The foundation of an above-ground pool is perhaps the most important thing to consider in its installation. The pool needs a solid, level surface on which to rest for the comfort and safety of those who use it. It is wise to think about preventing future plant growth underneath the pool, such as grasses and weeds. Additionally, the support framing needed to withstand the weight and pressure of the water is another critical part of an above-ground pool installation. This is where the construction materials come into play.

Pool Foundation

• The first step in creating the foundation for an above-ground pool is to remove all of the sod where the pool will be sitting, including up to 6 feet of additional soil around the exterior of the pool. Next, the grade of the soil must be equalized to its lowest grade level. You may need to add construction materials, such as crushed stone or sand, to the soil to provide stability and drainage. Then this soil base must be tamped down evenly to further ensure a foundation that will support the pool water and stay level at the same time.

Pool Framing

• In terms of the pool framing, all of the necessary construction materials, such as support posts and bases, walls, railing and railing caps, are generally provided by the manufacturer. Paving stones or blocks are also useful under framing support posts to stabilize and straighten the pool. It is highly recommended that a cove, consisting of a wedge between 6 and 8 inches wide, should be placed where the framing wall meets the interior soil base. Construction materials for the cove range from sand to pre-made Styrofoam products that are available from pool supply companies. Lastly, the pool liner must be installed carefully and patiently, according to the manufacturer's instructions, to ensure that large folds in the liner material do not occur although small wrinkles are allowable and generally inevitable.

Additional Considerations

• The pool industry is very concerned with safety and strives to prevent accidents and near-drowning incidents in residential pools. As a result, it is critical that you contact your local building code agencies for up-to-date information about pool installation as well as any security fencing, alarms and electrical wiring that must be included with your above-ground pool. Warning signs, ladder enclosures and access from the home to the pool are additional factors to research before starting your above-ground pool installation.