difficulty leveling ground

by Glen
(Oklahoma )

Dennis, I have viewed many of your responses but here is my question anyway. I have purchased an 18x38 Doughboy AG. I want it sunk in the ground about 18" mainly due to the slope in my yard. But I live here in Oklahoma and the ground is rock hard dirt.

I have a tractor with front end loader & box blade and have dug out my area 3' over the total size of pool. OK, here is the question, can I build a 3"-4" crusher run / screenings base all the way around the perimeter for the post to set on? It would be easier to compact that than to level this ground. Then put the sand in to level the inside out? The ground is now within 3" of level.

Thanks, Glen


Hi Glen.

Crusher run makes and excellent base to work on. It packs well and is a lot easier to level than rock hard dirt. Be sure to extend this pad way beyond the pool area. It would not hurt at all to coat the entire area with crusher run. It would be so much easier to get a really smooth base before you add your sand. The sand should be an even two inches or so but not used to level rough ground.

Be sure to get the entire area down to within 1 inch, or better, before any construction is started. Sounds like you are off to a great start, good luck.

If you have not already be sure to check out my installation pages.

Above Ground Swimming Pool Installation

Above Ground Pool Liner Installation