Get matched with top rototilling pros in Turtle Lake, WI

It depends on the model of your pool. You’ll always have to level the topsoil, but most vinyl-lined pools require an additional 1- to 2-inch layer of sand to protect the liner. This way, when a foot kicks down to the bottom of your pool, it’s not scraping the liner against the hard ground. If your pool isn’t vinyl-lined, you can skip this step or add a layer of another base material, like decomposed granite. Always check your manufacturer’s instructions before you begin.

Yes, you can rent a rototiller for around $60 per day and do the work yourself, but it’s not recommended. Tilling is more of an art than a science, as tilling too deep can be detrimental to your soil structure and the organic matter that is beneficial to plants and shrubs, and tilling too shallow won’t properly introduce fertilizer or break up the soil for rooting plants. Additionally, tillers are powerful machines with sharp blades to cut through small roots and soil, so they are inherently dangerous to use. It’s usually worth it to hire a professional rototiller.

When leveling the ground for a pool. If the ground is mostly level, you may be able to simply lay down pavers or pool pads to support the pool. However, you’ll still need to level the ground with sand as a base before adding other materials on top, like crushed gravel.

The largest issue with xeriscaping is the up front cost and the amount of work required to amend your old lawn. Xeriscaping costs $3,000 to $24,000 on average, but the long-term payoff, both financially and environmentally, includes saving water, time, and money on lawn maintenance.