what to put under a pool on grass

3 min read 25-12-2024

Protecting your lawn and ensuring a stable base for your pool are crucial steps in pool installation. This guide explores the best options for what to put under a pool on grass, weighing the pros and cons of each. Choosing the right base prevents future issues like sinking, unevenness, and damage to your yard.

Assessing Your Needs: Factors to Consider

Before deciding on the best underlayment for your pool, consider these key factors:

Pool Type: Above-ground pools have different requirements than in-ground pools. Above-ground pools generally need less extensive base preparation.
Soil Type: Clay soil compacts easily, requiring a more robust base. Sandy soil drains well but might need extra stabilization.
Budget: Options range from inexpensive to quite costly.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: A professional installer will likely recommend a specific solution tailored to your site.

Top Options for Pool Underlayment on Grass

Here's a breakdown of popular choices, detailing their advantages and disadvantages:

1. Gravel Base

Pros: Cost-effective, excellent drainage, provides a stable and level foundation.
Cons: Can be labor-intensive to install, requires significant depth (usually several inches), may shift over time unless compacted properly.
How to Install: Remove sod, level the ground, then lay down a compacted layer of gravel, followed by a layer of sand for leveling.
Best for: Above-ground pools and in-ground pools in well-draining soil.

2. Compacted Gravel and Sand

Pros: Combines the drainage of gravel with the leveling properties of sand, creates a solid and stable base.
Cons: More labor-intensive than gravel alone, requires careful compaction to prevent settling.
How to Install: Remove sod, level, compact gravel, then add a layer of sand for final leveling. This combination offers superior stability compared to just gravel.
Best for: In-ground pools in areas with poor drainage or unstable soil.

3. Pea Gravel

Pros: Excellent drainage, aesthetically pleasing (if visible), less likely to compact than larger gravel.
Cons: Can be more expensive than standard gravel, may require more depth to achieve stability.
How to Install: Similar to standard gravel, ensuring proper compaction.
Best for: Above-ground pools or in-ground pools where aesthetics are a concern.

4. Fabric Weed Barrier

Pros: Prevents weed growth, protects the gravel base, and simplifies future maintenance.
Cons: Adds to the overall cost, not a structural support on its own.
How to Install: Placed over the compacted gravel and sand base, before the pool installation.
Best for: Used in conjunction with a gravel or sand base to enhance weed control and improve longevity.

5. Engineered Geotextile Fabric

Pros: High-strength material, excellent separation and filtration properties, prevents soil from mixing with the gravel base.
Cons: More expensive than weed barrier fabric, needs to be properly installed to ensure effectiveness.
How to Install: Laid over the compacted sub-base before the gravel.
Best for: In-ground pools in areas with unstable or poor drainage soils. Provides superior stabilization and longevity.

6. Concrete Slab

Pros: Extremely durable and stable foundation, ideal for in-ground pools, minimizes settling.
Cons: Most expensive option, requires specialized equipment and professional installation, not ideal for DIY projects.
How to Install: Requires professional excavation and pouring of concrete.
Best for: In-ground pools where ultimate stability and longevity are paramount.

Step-by-Step Guide: Preparing the Ground for Your Pool

Regardless of your chosen underlayment, these steps are essential for a successful installation:

Clear the Area: Remove all grass, weeds, and debris.
Level the Ground: Use a level to ensure a perfectly flat surface. This is crucial for pool stability.
Compact the Soil: Thoroughly compact the soil to prevent future settling. This is especially important for clay soils.
Install Underlayment: Follow the specific installation instructions for your chosen material.
Level the Underlayment: Ensure a consistently level surface before proceeding with the pool installation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right underlayment for your pool is a critical step. The best option depends on your specific needs, budget, and the conditions of your yard. By carefully considering the factors outlined above and following the installation steps, you'll create a stable and long-lasting base for your pool, ensuring years of enjoyment. Remember to consult with a professional if you have any doubts or uncertainties.