Installing a kids’ pool in your backyard can bring endless hours of fun and summer joy for the children in your life. However, before you can plunge into the excitement of water play, it’s crucial to properly prepare the ground beneath the pool. A level surface ensures safety, stability, and longevity for the pool structure, avoiding mishaps such as water imbalance, structural strain, or a tilted installation. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of leveling the ground for a kids’ pool, offering professional tips, tools needed, and key safety considerations.
Why Leveling the Ground Is Important for Kids Pools
Setting up a kids’ pool on uneven ground may seem like a minor issue, but the consequences can be significant. Here’s why taking the time to level the ground is essential:
- Prevents water spillage: Uneven surfaces can lead to water pooling on one side of the inflatable or rigid pool, increasing the risk of overflow or instability.
- Reduces stress on the pool material: Uneven pressure can cause premature wear and tear on vinyl or plastic materials, especially in inflatable pools.
- Enhances safety: A skewed or tilting pool can create tripping hazards or difficulties in exiting the pool safely.
- Improves the user experience: A balanced pool offers children a better and more enjoyable play experience without the frustration of sliding or water imbalance.
Now that we understand the importance of leveling the ground under a kids’ pool, let’s dive into the step-by-step process.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
To successfully level the ground for a kids’ pool, you’ll want to gather the following items before getting started:
| Tool/Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Measuring tape | To check dimensions and distances. |
| Shovel or rake | Excavate soil or level dirt and sand. |
| A spade or garden hoe | Clear away tough roots or compacted earth. |
| A wooden or plastic level tool | Measure surface flatness precisely. |
| A carpenters’ bubble level or laser level | To check grade and angle of slope. |
| A garden roller or compactor | Ensure firmness and evenness. |
| Sand or soil mix (play sand is best) | Fill low spots and cushion the pool’s bottom surface. |
| Plastic sheet or pool underlayment | Protect the pool from sharp objects beneath. |
| Gloves and protective gear | Ensure personal safety while preparing the site. |
| Gardening trowel for precision tasks | Handle smaller areas near borders. |
Step-by-Step Process to Level the Ground for a Kids Pool
Preparation is key to ensuring your kids’ pool installation goes smoothly and safely. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Step 1: Choose the Ideal Location
The first step is selecting a safe, well-drained, and accessible spot in your yard to place the pool. Consider the following when choosing:
- Shade and sunlight: A partially shaded area keeps the water cooler and protects children from long sun exposure.
- Away from trees: Avoid overhanging trees to minimize falling leaves and potential staining on pool walls.
- Flat terrain: Start with a naturally flatter part of your yard to reduce effort.
- Proximity to a water source: Make sure it’s easy to fill and drain when necessary.
Step 2: Mark and Clear the Area
Once the location is chosen, measure the dimensions of the pool using a measuring tape and mark the area with stakes, chalk, or garden paint.
Next, clear debris, rocks, sticks, and vegetation from the site. Use a rake or garden hoe to remove loose materials. If the ground has grass or weeds, you may either remove it manually (using a shovel or sod cutter) or lay down sheets to smother it with a tarp (if time allows). For best results, clear an area that extends a few inches beyond the pool’s perimeter on all sides for easier future maintenance.
Step 3: Assess the Ground Surface
Now that the site is clear, inspect the base surface for unevenness or soft spots. Leveling tools like a bubble level, smartphone leveling app, or even a long plank with a level on top can help you visualize how flat the area is.
To test, place the level or straight board on the ground and observe any tilt or slope. Mark high spots (areas causing the tilt) and any low depressions that could compromise the installation. For more accuracy, run multiple checks across different axes including diagonals.
Step 4: Excavate High Spots
If part of the area is significantly higher than others, you’ll need to dig or shave these high points. Use a shovel or spade to remove soil or rocks from raised areas, leveling them with the surrounding terrain. In cases where the ground is rocky, break off or extract the offending obstacles.
If the elevation difference is minor, you can use a rake or hoe to tamp and redistribute the dirt, blending it with the surrounding flat ground. Don’t forget to check the site again with your leveling tool to ensure consistency.
Step 5: Fill Low Spots with Sand or Soil
For sunken or uneven surfaces, filling in the depressions is essential. Use fine play sand or sifted soil to top off and blend into the lower areas until the surface feels smooth and level.
The advantage of using sand is that it compacts better and leaves a smoother, gentler surface for the pool base. When filling, do so gradually, and press down gently to avoid creating more unevenness. Again, use your level tool to confirm evenness.
Step 6: Firm the Surface with a Compactor or Tamping Tool
After smoothing and filling, compacting the surface is key to maintaining stability over time. A garden compactor, handheld tamper tool, or even a water roller can be used to press down the soil or sand evenly.
Compacting prevents settling over time and provides a more secure base for the pool. It also discourages the surface from shifting or deforming with continued water weight and children’s activity.
Step 7: Double Check Levelness
Before placing the pool, conduct one final inspection. Lay a flat board across the area and place your leveling device on top. Check in multiple directions—north-south, east-west, and diagonally—to confirm flatness.
Pay special attention to corners and edges, which may sink or protrude slightly even if the center is level. For greater accuracy, place a shallow tray of water on the ground. If water drains to one side, there’s still a slope to correct.
Step 8: Lay Down Protective Underlayment
Once the surface is level, protect the pool by placing a plastic ground sheet or special pool underlayment fabric over the leveled ground. This layer acts as a barrier against small stones, roots, or sharp objects and prevents punctures to inflatable pool materials.
Ensure the underlayment is cut in a shape slightly larger than the pool itself, so there’s some give for adjustments. It also helps reduce wrinkling of the pool bottom caused by minor imperfections in the surface.
Choosing the Right Sand and Soil for Ground Leveling
Selecting the appropriate filling material is crucial for creating a safe and long-lasting environment for your kids’ pool.
Why Play Sand Works Best
Play sand or clean concrete sand is ideal for filling uneven spots because:
- It’s fine, soft, and sifted to remove debris and sharp grains.
- It compacts well to provide a smooth, stable surface.
- It minimizes potential damage to inflatable vinyl or plastic pools.
Avoid using playground sand that may have additives or dyes; instead, stick with clean white or beige construction-grade play sand, often available near building supply stores or big box retailers.
How to Apply Sand Correctly
When applying sand:
- Excavate or flatten uneven areas with soil to roughly level them.
- Add a thin layer of sand in depressions, avoiding overfilling.
- Use a trowel to spread the sand evenly and gently press into low spots.
- Compact with a handheld tamper or smooth with the back of a spade before final leveling checks.
Maintain a uniform thickness—about 1–2 inches is typically sufficient unless the original surface had severe dips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Leveling Ground for Kids Pools
Even with the best intentions, backyard pool installers can run into issues if they make the following common mistakes.
Mistake 1: Rushing the Site Preparation
Trying to save time by skipping leveling steps often leads to future problems. Uneven surfaces may settle further after just a few days of use, especially during heavy usage by energetic kids.
Mistake 2: Forgetting to Account for Weather and Drainage
A low area that puddles after rain or irrigation can sink or warp over time. Ensure the chosen location has good drainage or slightly slope the ground away from the pool’s center to redirect runoff water.
Mistake 3: Underestimating Surface Firmness
Soft or muddy ground can compress under the weight of a filled pool. Compaction and sand infill help, but if possible, choose firm soil that doesn’t get excessively wet.
Mistake 4: Using Gravel or Rough Materials as Base Fill
Some homeowners attempt to “soften” the ground with gravel, which may actually cause unevenness and potentially puncture pool liners. Stick with sand or sifted soil for best results.
Leveling Ground for Inflatable vs. Rigid Pools
It’s also important to distinguish between leveling ground for inflatable outdoor pools and rigid or hard-sided pools. The expectations and methods might differ just slightly.
Inflatable Pools
These are more sensitive to bumps and sharp rocks because the vinyl lining is thinner. When installing an inflatable pool:
- Go the extra mile ensuring no small rocks or roots remain.
- Use underlayment with more cushioning like foam or heavy-duty plastic sheet.
- Check levelness in the pool itself once it’s partially filled with water.
- Adjust slightly sloping areas by manually redistributing water from one side to the other.
Rigid Pools
Most hard-sided pools, especially those meant for semi-permanent backyard installations, can sometimes manage over slightly uneven surfaces due to their structure. Still, leveling the ground beneath the pool is ideal:
- Start with a concrete patio or paver base for maximum stability.
- If installing on soil, use packed sand or gravel to help stabilize the edges.
- Tamper well as rigid pools tend to settle into the soil base if not compacted sufficiently.
- Use a framing beam to check slope on larger pools or during initial setup.
Maintaining a Level Pool Base Over Time
After installing and leveling the pool, periodic checks are necessary to maintain its even surface. Settle into the routine of:
- Inspecting the base area monthly for shifts.
- Repacking any soft or sunken spots with fresh sand.
- Cleaning and removing plant roots or weeds that might sprout under the underlayment.
- Draining the pool and re-leveling the base if you notice unevenness or tilting.
If you plan to leave the pool up for the rest of the season, keeping it properly drained and stored during severe weather could also prolong its stability and functionality.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Properly leveling the ground before installing a kids’ pool is a critical yet simple task that pays off in safety, satisfaction, and long-term enjoyment. While it requires some physical effort and planning, the payoff is worth it when you see your children enjoying hours of fun in a sturdy, balanced pool setup.
In short steps:
- Choose a naturally flat, safe location in your backyard.
- Clear all debris, rocks, vegetation, and obstacles.
- Excavate high spots and fill low areas with play sand or sifted soil.
- Compact and firmly press the leveling material into place.
- Test for flatness using tools like a long board with a bubble level.
- Protect the base with underlayment or foam pad as a final layer.
With your ground now properly leveled, it’s time to inflate or install your kids’ pool and enjoy the summer! By following these expert steps, you won’t just set up a pool—you’ll create a safe and balanced environment for kids to create summer memories that last a lifetime.
What tools and materials are needed to level the ground for a kids pool?
To properly level the ground for a kids pool, you’ll need a few essential tools and materials. These include a measuring tape, stakes and string or a line level, a flat-headed rake, a shovel, a tamper or plate compactor, a garden hose or sprinkler, and a spirit level or transit level. If the ground is particularly soft or uneven, you may also need sand or gravel to help build a stable base.
Having the right tools ensures a smoother and more accurate leveling process. The measuring tape helps determine the size of the area needed for the pool, while stakes and string create a visual guide. A spirit level or transit level allows you to confirm the flatness of the surface. The rake and shovel are used to adjust the soil, and a tamper helps compact it to prevent future settling. Sand or gravel can be used to fill in low spots and provide drainage, especially in areas with poor soil quality.
How do I choose the right location for the pool in my backyard?
Choosing the right location for your kids’ pool involves considering several key factors. First, look for a flat, open area with good drainage that’s away from trees, shrubs, or structures that could drop debris or roots into the pool. The site should receive a balance of sun and shade to keep the water from overheating and to provide comfort for the children. Additionally, ensure the spot is within reach of a power source if your pool requires any electrical equipment.
Accessibility and visibility are also important when selecting a location. The site should be easily accessible for both children and adults, ideally close to a patio or outdoor seating area for supervision. Keep the pool at a safe distance from driveways, gates, or main walkways to avoid tripping hazards and make maintenance easier. If your space allows, position the pool where it can be seen from the house to ensure safety while children are playing.
How can I check if the ground is level before setting up the pool?
To check if the ground is level, start by using stakes and string around the perimeter of the area where the pool will be placed. Stretch the string tightly at ground level and ensure all points are at the same height using a line level. Then, place a spirit level on the ground along various directions—if the bubble is centered every time, the surface is level. Alternatively, a transit level and rod can be used for more precise measurements.
For a simpler approach, lay a garden hose filled with water around the perimeter of the area. Wait for the water to settle, and then mark the water level at various points. If the water reaches the same height on stakes at different locations, the area is level. This method works best for circular or oval areas. If large discrepancies are found, it may be necessary to re-grade the area carefully using a rake, shovel, and tamper to adjust soil levels and firmness.
How do I deal with grass or vegetation when leveling the ground for a pool?
Removing grass or vegetation is important when leveling the ground for a kids’ pool. Begin by marking the area needed for the pool. You can either cut and roll back the sod for reuse elsewhere or remove it completely using a shovel or sod cutter. Be sure to take off the top layer of roots to prevent future growth beneath the pool, which can lead to uneven surfaces and potential damage.
After removing the grass or vegetation, smooth the surface using a rake and inspect for any remaining roots or debris. Compact the soil with a tamper to stabilize the base. If you intend to reuse the sod later, store it in a shaded, moist area to keep it viable. If you removed the sod entirely, you may need to bring in sand or topsoil to fine-tune the level and create a stable, even foundation for the pool to sit on.
Can I level the ground on my own, or should I get help?
Many ground leveling tasks for a kids’ pool can be done as a DIY project, especially if the area isn’t too large or heavily sloped. If the terrain is relatively flat with minimal adjustments, a single parent can complete the work using basic tools like a rake, shovel, tamper, and a level. However, physical effort and time are required, so consider your own strength and schedule when deciding.
If the area is significantly uneven or if you’re working with heavy tools like a plate compactor or sod cutter, getting help from a partner or neighbor can be beneficial. An extra pair of hands makes it easier to carry materials, double-check measurements, and speed up the process. It’s also a good idea to have someone assist when laying out the stakes and string lines or using more advanced leveling tools like a transit level to ensure accuracy and efficiency.
How long does it typically take to level the ground for a kids pool?
The time required to level ground for a kids’ pool depends on several factors including the size of the pool, the condition of the soil, and the amount of grading needed. In general, for a small to medium-sized pool on flat terrain, preparation may take just a couple of hours. If the area has vegetation to remove or significant slope adjustments to make, the job could take an entire afternoon or require additional time for drying or settling.
It’s important to plan ahead and allow time for soil to settle, especially after watering. Rushing the process could lead to unevening once the pool is in place, requiring rework later. If using sand or gravel as a base, you’ll need additional time to lay and compact these materials properly. Always factor in unexpected delays such as weather changes or tool malfunctions to avoid frustration and ensure a stable setup for the pool.
What are the risks of setting up a pool on uneven ground?
Setting up a kids’ pool on uneven ground can lead to several potential issues. Most notably, the pool may tilt or become unstable, increasing the risk of water leakage or structural damage due to stress on the seams or walls. Inflatable pools are especially prone to this, as they can shift or pop under pressure from uneven surfaces. Uneven ground can also cause uneven water depth, creating potential safety hazards for children.
Additionally, pools set on unlevel ground may be uncomfortable or awkward for children to play in, as one side might be too shallow or too deep. The uneven water distribution may also place extra strain on pumps or filtration systems if the pool relies on them. Long-term use on an unstable base could shorten the lifespan of the pool, so taking the time to properly level the area is a smart investment for safety, enjoyment, and durability.