Backfilling Pool In The Ground

by Frank
(Tenn.)

I have a 15x30 above ground pool that I am going to put a patio around. I will backfill it for the first 2.5 feet, put in a retaining wall next to the pool , backfill to 2.5 in. from the bottom of the rail, put sand, then lay 16x16x2 inch patio stepping stones on top of 1/2 in. of sand and put just under the rail of the pool. Will this work? What is the best way to hide the pump?


Hi Frank. It sounds like it will work. If the retaining wall keeps the sand and blocks away from the pool wall you should not have a problem. You should never back fill above the water level of the pool and you should never back fill with something like sand, that will not pack, as cave ins will happen the first time the water gets a little low. The retaining wall should prevent this.

All I can say about pumps is that they should be below water level. Above ground pool pumps are meant to be gravity fed. I have seen them set into a dug out area next to the pool. This pretty much takes care of hiding them the only problem is water drainage if you get a lot of rain. You don't want the pump sitting in water.

The best way to do it would be to use an in ground pool pump. They are meant to draw water uphill and can be set any distance away from the pool you would like. This would make hiding the pool equipment very easy.

I have seen systems put in the garage, in the shed, under decks and behind fences. With the right pump the possibilities are endless.