Need Advice: Backyard Soil is Sandy with Clay Underneath What Do I Do for Above Ground Pool?

[buddy732]

I’m getting ready to set up an above ground pool in my backyard, but I’m not sure how to prep the ground properly. The top layer is soft, loose sand and underneath that is a firmer orangish clay-like material.





What’s the best way to build a stable base in this kind of soil? I want to make sure the pool doesn’t shift or sink over time. Appreciate any advice from people who’ve dealt with similar ground conditions.

https://imgur.com/a/kwXtpHJ

 

[ajw22]

Welcome to TFP.

Dig down to undisturbed solid ground.

How to level above ground pool - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

 

[buddy732]

Welcome to TFP.

Dig down to undisturbed solid ground.

How to level above ground pool - Further Reading

www.troublefreepool.com

Thanks for the reply I’m also in NJ south jersey. I dug down about a ft already and it’s still soft, how far should I go?

Someone told me dig down 4-7 inches and backfill with stone dust then compact. Is that true?

 

[ajw22]

Nope, you cannot compact fill sufficiently to withstand settling of the water weight.

If you are on a lot that was graded and filled by a builder you will have difficulty finding undisturbed soil that will not settle.

 

[buddy732]

Nope, you cannot compact fill sufficiently to withstand settling of the water weight.

If you are on a lot that was graded and filled by a builder you will have difficulty finding undisturbed soil that will not settle.

Gotcha, so what should I do?

 

[ajw22]

Gotcha, so what should I do?

Do the best you can with the setup and not be surprised if the pool settles and you need to break it down and level it every year or two.

You may not have good land for a stable pool.