Simple Hacks To Level Your Above Ground Pool
Before attempting any leveling hacks, it's crucial to thoroughly check the current level of your above ground pool. This allows you to identify any problem areas that may need adjustment. Here are a few tips for assessing the level:
Use a pool level tool such as a digital level or pool level to check for any tilting or uneven spots around the pool's perimeter. Mark any low or uneven areas with spray paint or colored stakes so you know which spots need levelling. Check both the inside and outside of the pool walls to get a complete picture.
Check All Sides and Corners
Be sure to check all four sides of the pool, as well as all corners. One or more sides may appear level while others are sloped or tilted. The corners are especially prone to settling and will need extra attention.
Look for Bowing or Bulges
Examine the pool walls for any inward or outward bowing, which indicates areas of excessive pressure and improper support. Mark these spots to level out.
Use Multiple Levels for Accuracy
Use several types of levels - try a 4-foot level, 2-foot level, and torpedo level to check different parts of the pool. The combination provides a very accurate assessment.
Check Level Frequently During Assembly
Re-check the level after each top ledge piece is attached during pool assembly. Doing frequent spot checks lets you catch and correct any errors early.
Prepare the Area Around Your Above Ground Pool
Proper preparation of the area around your above ground pool provides a flat, stable base for leveling. Here are some tips to prep the space:
Clear a Wide Space Around the Perimeter
Remove any grass, plants, or debris from a 12-18 inch space all around where the pool will sit. This creates a clean working area.
Compact and Smooth the Soil
Use a tamper tool like a jumping jack to flatten and harden the soil for a solid base. Fill any holes or ruts with extra soil.
Cover with Sand or Gravel
For really soft or uneven soil, put down a 1-2 inch layer of sand or gravel to create a flat, stable surface.
Use Sand to Level Out Low Areas
One easy pool leveling hack is using sand to fill in any low spots or depressions under your above ground pool. Here's how:
Pour Sand and Compact by Hand
Slowly pour dry sand into low areas, using a board to spread it evenly. Use your hands or a hand tamper to compact.
Add Sand Gradually
Only add a little sand at a time, re-checking the level often. Too much will over-lift the area.
Use Pool Level to Confirm
Place the pool level tool on the compacted sand to ensure the area is now level before adding the pool.
Try Adjustable Pool Leveling Blocks
Using adjustable leveling blocks under the uprights is a quick hack for lifting settled areas of your above ground pool. Here's how they work:
Lift Straight Sections More Easily
Leveling blocks are ideal for adjusting the straight side panels. Wedge shims work better for rounded corners.
Stack Blocks for Extra Height
Most blocks allow 1-2 inches of adjustment. Stack blocks to increase height in extra low spots.
Re-Check Level Frequently
Adjust block height gradually, checking with the level tool often to avoid over-lifting sections.
Use Shims for Precise Leveling Adjustments
Shims inserted under pool uprights are an easy, inexpensive method for tweaking the level in problem spots. Here are some tips:
Start with Thickest Shims
Use the thickest shims that will fit first. Switch to thinner shims for smaller adjustments.
Stack Multiple Shims If Needed
Layer 2-3 shims on top of each other to get the right amount of lift in extra low areas.
Combine with Blocks for Best Results
Use leveling blocks to lift the majority, shims just to fine-tune tricky rounded corners.
Adjust the Pool Wall Bolts
If other methods aren't providing enough lift, loosening and retightening the pool wall bolts is an effective hack. Here's the process:
Loosen All Bolts Slightly
Use a ratchet to back every bolt out about 1/4 turn around the pool's bottom ledge.
Tighten Bolts in Lower Sections
Now selectively tighten bolts around areas that need lifting to force that section upward.
Retighten All Bolts Once Level
With all sections level, finish by tightening every bolt completely to lock the pool in place.
Check the Pool Level Frequently
Maintaining proper water level in your above ground pool is crucial. Be sure to:
Monitor Water Level After Fill Up
Check for any settling or sloping after the initial complete pool fill up.
Refill Periodically as Needed
Add a bit more water if you notice some sections becoming lower than others.
Re-Level Next Season if Required
Do a fresh leveling check before refilling each season to keep pool flat.
Maintain the Proper Water Level
Careful monitoring and topping up your above ground pool's water level helps avoid sloping issues. Follow these tips:
Mark the Ideal Water Height
Use a permanent marker to note proper fill height on the inside pool wall.
Check and Top Up Regularly
Refill to your mark frequently to replace water lost to splashing, evaporation, etc.
Adjust for any Minor Settling
If any areas drop slightly over time, top up a bit higher to compensate.
Keep the Pool Surroundings Level
Maintaining the proper slope and compaction of soil around your above ground pool also helps prevent settling issues:
Fill Any Edge Depressions
Use added soil or sand to level out any hollows around the pool perimeter.
Re-Compact Periodically
Use a hand tamper to re-flatten and harden the area every few months.
Ensure Proper Drainage Slope
Grade soil to slope away from pool to prevent rain runoff pooling against wall.
Enjoy a Smooth Pool Surface All Season
Taking the time to properly level your above ground pool provides many benefits, including:
Allows Even Water Distribution
Level pool means same depth everywhere, preventing dry spots or flooding.
Ideal For Pool Toys and Games
A flat bottom is best for floating loungers, water basketball hoops, etc.
Uniform water flow prevents pump strain. Skimmer works best in level water.
While leveling an above ground pool takes effort, it's crucial for safety, proper water circulation, and full enjoyment of the space. Using these simple DIY hacks, you can get your pool flat and smooth in no time!