A pool needs to have a strong base. A pool with a poor base is more likely to tip over and spill vast amounts of water, which can lead to expensive damage. Whether you are building an in-ground or above ground swimming pool, it is important to choose the right base for your pool.

A sand base is the most common type of pool base, but you can also use a concrete slab or foam form. Each material offers a different set of advantages, so it is important to choose the one that works best for your pool and your needs.

The sand layer provides a foundation for the pool and acts as a protective barrier between the base and the liner of the pool. Sand is also useful for catching small rocks or other debris that might otherwise fall into the pool, which can cause damage to the liner.

To get started, remove any sod or other vegetation from the area where the pool will be placed. If you have a large area to cover, you may want to hire a sod removal service from your local home improvement store.

Once you have cleared the area of all vegetation, start to level the ground around the pool. This will ensure that the pool will be level with the lowest point of the yard. To make the leveling process quicker, purchase a wood plank and a 2-inch wooden stake.

Place the plank midway along a narrow, 1-inch length of the wood stake, and duct tape a carpenter’s level to the plank in a position that is slightly above the pool’s center.

Next, pour enough crushed limestone into the hole to create a 1-inch to 2-inch base. Hold the level against the base of the pool to determine if it is level. If not, repeat the process with more crushed limestone until it is.

Once the limestone base is level, remove the wood plank and wood stake. Fill the stake’s hole with dirt and the crushed limestone to create a level, solid foundation for the pool. You can then replace the wood stake with a metal stake that has been driven into the ground, or you can use a string and spray paint to mark the perimeter of the area.

Before starting construction, consult with your local utility company to ensure there are no buried utility lines. It is especially important to have these lines surveyed and marked if the pool will be located near a buried telephone or electrical line.

The pool should be located on level ground and away from low-lying areas or windy areas, as these can accelerate the evaporation of the pool’s water. These locations are also more likely to attract mosquitoes and other insects, which can spread diseases such as malaria or dengue fever.

If your location is windy, consider erecting a fence to block the breeze. This will help reduce the evaporation of the pool’s liquid, which will allow you to maintain the proper level without constantly adding water.