The thing to put under an above ground pool is typically sand or pea gravel. It’s best to use a non-toxic, fine-grained material that won’t pose a risk when the pool liner could potentially experience a tear or puncture.
It is important to make sure that the material used is at least two inches thick so it is able to support the weight of the pool liner, especially as it will become significantly heavier when it is filled with water.
In addition to providing a flat, even surface area to help support the pool, it also provides extra protection against any potential tears or punctures in the liner. When accustomed correctly, this layer of protection can help prevent leakage.
The sand or pea gravel can be laid out across the area the pool will be situated and then tamped down, or compacted, with a plate compactor.
Why should you not use sand under pool?
It is not recommended to use sand as a base under your pool or as a material to fill it up with. It is better to use a crushed stone base when installing an above ground pool. This is because sand does not provide an adequate amount of support for the wall of the pool, and it can cause the pool to sink over time.
Additionally, sand can create pockets that hold pockets of water, and these pockets increase the chances of algae growth in the sand. When this algae is disturbed, it can contaminate the pool and make it potentially unsafe for humans.
Sand can also create an uneven surface and can increase the wear and tear on the pool’s liner. Lastly, sand can cause more frequent pool maintenance as it can plug the pool’s filter, which then requires cleaning out more often.
Since the costs of replacing a pool liner can be high, it is better not to risk it in the first place and use crushed stone as the base and to fill your pool with.
Should I put sand under my Intex pool?
Yes, it’s important to put sand underneath your Intex pool. Sand provides a level base for the pool and a cushion to help protect it from elements like rocks or roots that could puncture the pool’s walls.
Additionally, the sand keeps the pool more stable and less prone to shifting due to pressure from outside forces. Sand also helps to keep the pool liner from becoming exposed to the ground, minimizing wear and tear on the liner and helping it last longer.
Ultimately, putting sand underneath your Intex pool is best for the pool itself and can help it last longer.
How many 50lb bags of sand do I need for a 18 foot pool?
To calculate how many 50lb bags of sand you need for a 18 foot pool, you need to know the surface area of the pool. The surface area of a 18 foot pool is around 528 ft2. Depending on the product you are using and the uniformity of thickness you want, you will need to calculate the volume.
A recommended 1/2 inch thick layer of sand would require 5.33 cubic feet of material. Since 1 cubic foot of sand is approximately 125lb, you will need 667 lb of sand, or approximately 13.3 50lb bags of sand.
You may need to buy a few extra, because it is best to have a bit of extra sand on hand for any unevenness or for topping up around the edges.
What kind of sand do you use for an Intex pool?
The type of sand used for an Intex pool depends on the Intex pool model. Intex pools require larger grain sizes of #20 silica sand, rather than the traditional #20 silica sand used in regular sand filters.
The larger grain reduces the chance of the sand entering and clogging the pump. For most Intex pools, the recommended type of sand is a #20 silica grade, with a size range of 0.45 to 0.55 mm. For Intex Easy Set pools, #20 silica sand with a size range of 0.45 to 0.
55 mm should be used. For Intex Frame Set pools, a larger grain #20 silica sand with a size range of 0.55 to 0.85 mm is recommended. Additionally, a sand filter cleaner such as Intex Krystal Clear Sand Filter Cleaner should be used approximately once a month to ensure maximum efficiency of the sand filter.
The amount of sand needed for Intex pool filters is determined by the size of the pool. For an 18” filter, approximately 100 pounds of sand is recommended, while a 24” filter will require 200 pounds of sand.
Here is a table indicating the amount of sand needed for Intex filters:
Filter Model Sand Required
Intex 18″ 100 lbs
Intex 24″ 200 lbs
Intex 28″ 300 lbs
Intex 32″ 400 lbs
Intex 36″ 450 lbs
Intex 42″ 600 lbs
How level does the ground have to be for an Intex pool?
The ground needs to be as level as possible for an Intex pool. This can be determined by using a 4 foot level. Evaluate the ground around the circumference of the pool and make any necessary adjustments.
If the ground is not already level, you can use sand, sandbags or pavers to create a level surface for your pool. Be sure any fill material for adjusting the level of your pool is free of rocks or other debris.
Additionally, the pool should not be filled farther than 80% of its capacity if the ground is not level. Overall, it is important to ensure the ground is level to ensure the pool’s integrity and avoid any potential damage.
What should above ground pool sit on?
Above ground pools should sit on a flat, solid surface that can support the weight of the full pool. This could include grass, concrete, wood decks, or pavers. It is important to use a surface that can effectively drain off water, as water will collect underneath the pool.
If the surface area is not properly prepped with a hard surface, then a Polyethylene foam padding should be used beneath the pool’s liner. Special pool base or sand can also be used as a safe, cushioning layer beneath the pool structure.
The cushioning prevents any bruising or cracking of the pool’s lining, and also provides a level foundation for the pool walls. When preparing the area for an above ground pool, it is essential to level the ground to ensure proper installation.
When forgo prepping the ground properly and follow instructions for the pool’s installation, you risk the risk of pool damage.
What can you put under a pool besides sand?
There are a variety of options that can be put under a swimming pool besides sand. Generally, the best option is to use crushed rock or gravel, which will provide a solid, level foundation for the pool.
Before laying any crushed rock or gravel, it’s important to lay down a weed barrier that will prevent weeds from growing around the pool. In addition, stones such as paver stones, flagstones, and bricked pavers can be used to create a more decorative effect.
There are also different types of padding options, from foam padding, to rolled rubber mats, to foam-filled plastic covers that can be used to provide an extra level of protection from sharp edges or other hazards.
Finally, there are various types of pool liners that can be used to cover the pool and give it a more aesthetic look.
Can you put an above ground pool on pavers?
Yes, you can put an above ground pool on pavers. The process is actually fairly easy, though there are a few steps you need to take for it to be done successfully. First, you want to make sure the ground where your pool will be sitting is even and solid.
You’ll need to level the area and use a plate compactor to make sure the ground is packed down properly. Next, you’ll need to lay down a strong layer of gravel or crushed stone to ensure the paver stones stay in place.
Once that is taken care of, it’s time to start laying the pavers. Depending on the size of your pool and the type of pavers you’re using, you may need to stack the pavers. When it comes time to placing the pool, you should use a 4-wheeler or a garden cart to place it in the center of the pavers and move it into position.
Once the pool is in place, you can add sand to the area according to the instructions in your pool’s manual. With the sand in place, you can fill your pool up and begin enjoying your new above ground pool!.
Do I need to put a tarp under my pool?
While it is not required, it is highly recommended to place a tarp under your pool. The tarp can act as additional protection against any punctures or tears that may occur in the pool walls. It can also help reduce the amount of dirt and debris that can accumulate in the pool, which can lead to staining or discoloration.
In addition, the tarp can help provide insulation and keep the water temperature more consistent. It is important to make sure that the tarp fits snugly underneath the pool, allowing no gaps in between the pool wall and the tarp.
This can help provide additional protection for the pool for years to come.
How long before you can swim in a new above ground pool?
Typically, you should wait at least 24 to 48 hours after filling and adjusting the chemicals in your new above ground pool before swimming in the pool. This is to ensure that the water is clean and safe for you to swim in.
To ensure the pool is filled and adjusted properly, you will want to follow manufacturer instructions and test the pool water with a few different kits to measure pool chemicals, as well as gauge pH, alkalinity, and other parameters that can affect pool water quality.
Additionally, make sure to filter and backwash your pool before swimming. Once you have waited the recommended time and adjusted the proper chemical levels for your pool, you will be able to swim in your new above ground pool.
How do I calculate how much sand I need?
Calculating how much sand you need can depend on the size of the area you are going to be using the sand in, as well as what kind of application the sand will be used for. To determine how much sand to purchase, you will need to first determine the size of the area you are working with.
Calculate the length and width of the area in feet and then multiply them together to obtain the total square footage.
Once you have the total square footage, you need to decide what kind of sand you are going to need. Generally speaking, most projects require either a coarse sand (block sand) or a finer sand such as play sand or silica sand.
For coarse sand, you will typically need about 3 to 4 bags for every 100 square feet of area. For finer sand, you will need about 1 to 2 bags for every 100 square feet of area.
You will also need to determine the depth of the sand you need. If you are using the sand for a patio or other flat area, then a depth of 1 to 2 inches should suffice. However, if you are using the sand for a playground or other heavily trafficked area, then you might need a greater depth of 4 to 6 inches.
Once you have determined the size of the area, the type of sand, and the desired depth, you can multiply those three figures together to obtain the total volume of sand required in cubic feet. Then divide this figure by how many cubic feet a single sandbag holds, which is typically between 0.5 and 1.
0, depending on the type of sand, to determine how many sandbags are necessary.