Above Ground Pool Installation

Step 2

Certain grass types are known to penetrate pool liners, so make sure the foundation is set properly. To be safe, remove sod from underneath the pool and around the pool wall. Some areas have codes in regard to how much sod is removed from around the pool, so be sure to be on top of this.

Step 3

Next step is to level the ground. High ground needs to be dug out to match the lower ground. Using a level or a transit. It is not recommended to build up low ground due to the immense weight of water above ground pools hold. When ground is not leveled, there is potential for serious damage to the pool and injury to those in or near it. Such as a wall that collapses. 

Step 4

The pool is a new structure in the normal flow of drainage water. Due to this, water may gather in the yard. When possible try not to disturb the natural flow of drainage. But when this is unavoidable, remember you might not have a busted liner on your hands. Only the blocking of a natural water flow.

Step 5

Lay a foundation for the pool. Clean sand is the traditional base material for above ground pools. Sand is a natural barrier between ground and liner. This barrier is additional protection from rocks, roots or other hard objects. It also provides cushioning for the floor of the pool, making it more comfortable underfoot. Note, a uniform, 2-inch layer of sand is standard (check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pool).

Step 6

Next set the foundation for the pool frame, typically either patio stones or blocks sunk til flush with the ground. Place these blocks underneath the pool posts and buttresses for additional support. Level the blocks in all directions i.e. side to side & front to back. Make blocks are less than 1/16” different in height block to block. Unlevel supports lead to buckled walls. Follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions for placement of stones or blocks.

Step 7

Assemble the pool. Follow the Installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. Typical partis include: bottom rails, bottom plates, uprights, pool wall, top rails, caps for uprights, coping, pool liner, and hardware. 

Step 8

Once the pool frame and walls are up, you should create a cove. This is a 6 – 8 inch wedge of sand built all the way around the inside edge of the pool wall. Creating the cove is mandatory for above ground pools. The cove will keep the liner from slipping under the pool wall and provide a protective layer between the liner and the metal frame of the pool. Bevel the sand to form a 45 degree wedge along the entire inner circumference of the pool wall. The sand should be uniform all the way around and tamped down.  Any sand on the pool wall above the cove should be removed to prevent it from rubbing against the liner and possibly causing pinholes to form. An alternative exists, pre-manufactured pool cove is available in two forms, Peel & Stick which has adhesive backing, and Clip & Stick

Step 9

Installing the liner. This is the most delicate part of the pool, so inspect it first. Open the box containing your liner very carefully – do not use a sharp object. Unfold the liner and spread it out, making sure the ground is clear of anything that could puncture it. If everything checks out, phew, that’s a huge relief. occasionally, these liners take damage in transit when the shipping company isn’t paying attention to detail.

Step 10

After your liner passes inspection, spread it out in the sun. The sun’s heat will warm up the vinyl, making it more pliable and easier to work with. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions regarding preparing the liner. Remember, above ground pool liners are not meant to bear any of the weight of the water so they must rest on the ground in all areas. Properly installed, there should be no air space between the liner and the ground, and no downward pressure on the liner.  

Step 11

Since there is extra material to compensate for any shrinkage of the liner, wrinkles in the liner material is normal and unavoidable. To smooth out the floor of the liner, gently push it toward the wall. To avoid damage, do not pull, drag or stretch the liner. Air between the liner and the above ground pool wall can contribute to wrinkles.

To decrease this, you can use a vacuum hose, inserting it through the skimmer hole in the pool wall behind the liner. Use masking tape and cardboard to seal any gaps around the skimmer hole and vacuum hose. Turn on the vacuum and gently adjust the liner while the vacuum is running. You can turn the vacuum off periodically if you reach any areas where the liner becomes difficult to adjust. The vacuum can continue to run as you fill the pool but be sure to keep the hose above water level at all times. You can fill above ground pools with a common garden hose, or hire a water truck which is much faster.

Step 12

Now that the pool is filled with water, connect your pump and filter system, heater, lights and any other pool equipment you may have. Follow the installation instructions.

Step 13

 The pool and accessories are installed. lastly, following instructions in regard to chemicals. Remember  an Above Ground Pool Installation is a DIY project for someone that has some general project management skills and some friends. For everyone else, contact your pool professionals.

This is a brief overview of steps that go into Above Ground Pool Installation. Also consult a professional and follow the instruction manuals provided by the manufacturer. Check out our above ground pool line.