Keep pool-side dreams from getting short-circuited by being aware of pool electrical installation costs and how they can affect your overall budget.
How to Level the Ground for a Pool Without Digging
Dive into an easier method for leveling the surface for an above ground pool
Get quotes from pool builders and installers near you
No obligation · 100% free
Get quotes from pool builders and installers near you
No obligation · 100% free
SKILL LEVEL
Simple
COMPLETION TIME
3 hours
COST
$500–$1,000
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Tape measure
- Level
- Drill
- Hammer
SUPPLIES
- Two 2-by-4 boards
- Spray paint
- Duct tape
- Metal rebar
- Sand
Before you can splash the days away in your above ground pool, you’ll need to ensure the ground is level. Learning how to level ground for a pool without digging is possible without heavy machinery. Not only is an uneven water level an annoyance when you’re trying to cool off, but uneven pools are at risk of collapsing, damaging property, and putting your family at risk of injuries. This guide will walk you through the steps to level ground for your new pool.
Prepping to Level Ground for a Pool
Before you can smooth out the ground, set up the pool, and get to floating, there are a few tasks to check off first. You may need to secure permits before setting up the pool, and you’ll need to choose a location for the pool. You’ll also need to clear the area before you can start leveling the ground.
Check Zoning and Permits
While setting up an above ground pool in your yard is common, it may require applying for permits to build the pool, level the ground, or install electrical elements like pumps and heaters. Make sure to check with your municipality for regulations about how far the pool must be from structures or property lines, and inquire about any building permit costs.
Clear Grass and Plants
You’ll need to select a location away from the house and garage as well as other structures, like sheds. You may also want to keep the pool away from large trees and shrubs to minimize the risk of damage to the pool. Once you’ve selected the area, you’ll need to remove grass, rocks, twigs, plants, and other obstructions before you can start leveling the area.
Mark the Pool Location
You’ve already cleared the general area for the pool, but to properly level the surface, be sure to measure the specific location and mark it with spray paint. You’ll be working within this marked area to inspect for high and low spots, which you’ll need to level out before installing an above ground pool.
Check for Highs and Lows
Photo: narvikk / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty ImagesUsing at least two two-by-fours attached at the ends to make one long board—or using an 8-foot-long board—place the boards along the radius of the marked pool area with one end at the center point. Using a level on top of the first board by the perimeter of the pool area (opposite the center), ensure the first board is level on the ground.
Lift the other end of the board until it’s level, and use the measuring tape to determine the distance between the bottom side of this board and the ground. This will determine the lowest spot.
Secure the Boards
Turn the board on its side and drill a 3/8-inch hole through the center of the end sitting at the center point of the pool area. Align the hole with the center of the pool area so you can secure the end of the board. Use a hammer to drive the metal rebar through the hole and continue driving the metal rebar until the board is secure.
Pour Sand Into the Area
Pour sand around the pool area, and make sure to use more sand in the low points. You’ll need more sand in these spots to help level them out with the higher ground.
Construct a Large Level
You’ve already started making the level in step three. At this point, you’ll just need to attach a level, like one from your toolbox, to the center of the attached boards (or one longer board) using duct tape. Wrap the duct tape around the boards and level, ensuring the board is level before securing it.
Install a metal screw ring at the end of the board, the side near the perimeter of the pool area. Tie the rope around this metal screw ring, leaving enough slack to grab it and comfortably walk around the pool area while pulling the board around with you.
Compact the Sand
Wet the sand with some water, then use a tamper to start compacting it until it’s firm. Once the area is filled with sand and compacted, you can easily use your handmade leveling device to smooth the surface.
Rake and Circle Until Level
Photo: KaraGrubis / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty ImagesGrab the rope at the end of the boards and start pulling it and walking around the perimeter of the pool. Continue until the high and low points have leveled out. If there are still low points, you’ll need to add more sand, compact it, and go around with the boards again until the ground is level.
DIY Ground Leveling vs. Hiring a Pro
Learning how to level a yard for a pool is simple for most DIYers. The biggest cost is trucking in the sand, which costs about $300 to $700 or around $15 to $40 per cubic yard. Professional leveling services for a pool cost about $200 to $850 or $50 per hour. Either way, leveling the ground is a substantial portion of the cost of installing an above ground pool.
If you’re planning to install an inground pool, you need to hire a pool service near you to get the job done. Prepping the ground for an inground pool requires heavy machinery to excavate and level the ground before building and installing the pool. These tasks require the expertise of licensed and insured contractors.
Of course, if you’re having any trouble with leveling the ground for your type of above ground pool, hiring a professional pool service is also a smart idea. If the ground isn’t level, you’re at risk of the pool breaking or tearing, sending hundreds or thousands of gallons of water all over your property, and possibly damaging the neighbors’ homes and yards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pool constructions and installations reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
5.0★ avg. • 1 total reviews
- Sarah E.
Joseph did a great job with the staircase and trim. Timely and efficient, clear communication about the work, very fair pricing. For the stairs in particular, done very skillfully in an old house (1893) in a tight spiral, and very creative with how to do the handrail. Did a nice job with...
Vouis Trim Carpentry L.L.C. - Jena P.
This company does it right. Firstly, I want to say that Landan was a joy to work with. He was so kind, transparent, and had everything under control. His entire team showed up ready to work and they were all very respectful of the fact that we were in an office space. A little backstory – we...
Krumlauf Floors - Sam M.
Professional Team, smooth to communication chain and schedule flexibility. Follows proper construction procedure and completes task on time.
Pegasus Concrete - Jeanann S.
Very professional, knowledgeable and helpful! Completed the install on time and as expected.
Ward's Services - Adam E.
Cole has been handling plumbing and general contracting for our four properties over the past three years, and he’s always done a great job. Most recently, he installed a sink and countertop in our retail store where none existed before, and it turned out exactly how we needed. He’s...
ANB Renovations LLC - Grace G.
Excellent, Prompt, Courteous Service!!! They were super friendly and quite personable. I felt very comfortable with the gentlemen that did the installation. They installed it exactly where I asked them to and they did an excellent job!! I loved their service so much.
Tether House - Brenda C.
Great experience from start to finish. The installation team was very respectful, clean and professional. Ilia kept in touch throughout the long waiting period (due to pandemic) so we were always appraised of what was happening. The windows look great! Would definitely recommend.
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Mary O.
The guys did an outstanding job and we had a great experience with CarifaTile. I appreciated that Joe reviewed the quotes with me and set expectations prior to the install. The crews showed up as scheduled and always left the areas clean upon leaving the house. We will definitely use...
CarifaTile - Jake H.
Did an amazing job transforming my yard. Also installed sod in places, would recommend to everyone.
Cardinal Landscaping & Construction LLC - Archie D.
Always been satisfied with the service work and how they have taken care of my pool.
The homeowners guide to pool constructions and installations
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Leveling your yard can help with drainage and prevent damage to your home. Learn the cost to level a yard and what factors can affect the price.
Dreaming of summertime swimming? Find out aboveground pool costs, including prices for materials, fun extras, and professional installation.
You can build an above ground pool on uneven ground if you take the time to level it. This guide will show you how to level ground for a pool in a few easy steps.
A perfectly level ground is crucial for a safe and enjoyable pool experience. Learn who to hire to level the ground and prepare your backyard oasis.
Above ground pools are more affordable than inground pools, so can you put an above ground pool in the ground to save money? Learn when it’s safe to do so.