How to Level the Ground for an Above-Ground Metal Frame Intex Pool
- 1). Find the flattest spot in your yard. Starting with a relatively level spot will make the job of leveling the ground for a pool a lot easier.
- 2). Look at the box containing the Intex metal frame pool and note the size of the pool. Use your measuring tape to measure a circle about six inches wider than the pool bottom. This will provide extra room if you choose to put a ground cover under the pool. The best way to measure the circle is to place the tape measure in the center and measure outward. Place the tape measure flat on the ground and measure from the center of the spot you have chosen.
If your pool is 36 inches in diameter, you need a circle of approximately 42 inches, so measure 21 inches out from the center, mark the spot, and then measure 21 inches out toward the other side. Place a stake at each spot so you can easily see the size of the circle. When you are done, you should have four stakes in the ground. - 3). Place a tarp or piece of black plastic sheeting on the ground and completely cover the area you have staked out. Secure the tarp to the ground with stakes and allow it to remain in place for at least a few weeks. This will kill the grass and make the area easier to work with. If you are pressed for time, remove the grass using a rototiller and shovel.
- 4). Cut a 2 x 4 to the same size as the circle you created. If your circle is 42 inches in diameter, the 2 x 4 will be 42 inches long. Measure the exact center of that 2 x 4 and drill a 3/8-inch hole in the board. Drive a stake into the ground in the exact middle of your circle. Place the hole in the 2 x 4 over the stake.
- 5). Place a level in the middle of the 2 x 4 and check the level of the ground. If the low end of the circle is more than 2 inches lower than the high side, dig out ground from the high side to make the spot more level.
- 6). Start moving the sand into place. Place more sand in the low end to begin to even it out. Spin the 2 x 4 on the stake after each load of sand is put in place, and check the level as you work. This will make the sand level and uniform. Continue adding sand until the entire circle is perfectly level.
- 7). Wet the sand with a garden hose and pack it down. Rent a lawn roller from your local rental center or hardware store and use it to pack the sand down further. After the sand is packed down, check the level again and make any necessary adjustments.