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Most experts recommend a quarter-inch layer of compost for best results, and you will need about .77 cubic yards of material per 1,000 square feet. To measure how much compost to use, take the square footage of your yard and multiply it by .77, then divide that number by 1,000.

Sand is a common sublayer for hardscape features like driveways, paver patios, and more. Most projects that involve sand require a 1-inch layer to promote evenness, drainage, and weight distribution. For further drainage, most projects have a 6-inch minimum layer of gravel beneath the sand. 

The most important part of preparing the ground for an above ground pool is leveling. Your above ground pool must rest on a completely level surface or it can collapse. Make sure you also remove grass and debris that could puncture the liner. This includes things like vegetation, rocks, twigs, and roots.

The ideal amount of mulch is the square footage of your desired depth in inches divided by 324. Aim to keep your old and/or new mulch at a depth of no more than three or four inches.