Can I Just Put My Above Ground Pool On Grass?

Thinking of plonking your pool straight on the grass? Tempting, we know—but hold that hose! The short answer: yes, but it’s risky without prep. From soggy lawns to wobbly walls, there’s more to it than you’d think. Discover the do’s and don’ts of swimming pools UK families should know.

Why Grass is Not an Ideal Direct Foundation

At first glance, grass seems perfect—soft, level(ish), and ready to go. But don’t be fooled. Underneath, your lawn might be hiding all sorts of mischief.

Instability and Uneven Settling Over Time

Grass-covered soil isn’t exactly known for being rock-solid. After a few days of weight, it starts to sink in odd places.

Picture this: the kids are mid-cannonball when one side of the pool tilts. Water sloshes, walls shift, and now your "quick weekend setup" is a rescue mission.

Damage to the Grass Itself (Dying Off)

Even if things go smoothly, the grass underneath won’t survive. With no sunlight, no airflow, and gallons of weight pressing down, it turns into mush.

Once the pool’s gone, you’re left with a patchy mess—and possibly a call to the turf supplier.

Increased Risk of Liner Punctures from Roots or Debris

Grass means roots. And roots mean trouble. Sharp stones, hidden twigs, or even the odd rogue toy can pierce your pool liner from below.

Think of it like putting a bouncy castle on a bramble bush. It’ll hold—until it doesn’t.

Difficulty in Levelling and Maintaining a Level Pool

Getting a lawn perfectly level is trickier than it sounds. Especially in the UK, where soggy patches and hidden dips are part of the charm.

If one side’s even slightly lower, you’ll see it in the waterline—and your pool will feel more like a wave machine than a relaxing dip.

Recommended Foundations for Above Ground Pools

So, if grass isn’t ideal on its own, what should you do instead? Don’t worry—you don’t need to rip up the whole garden. A bit of prep can go a long way.

Essential Site Preparation Steps

Clearing the Area (Grass, Rocks, Debris)

Start by clearing the space completely. That means lifting turf, removing stones, and saying goodbye to any lurking bits of Lego.

It might feel like overkill—but trust us, future-you (and your pool liner) will thank you.

Ensuring a Perfectly Level Base

Use a long straightedge and a spirit level. Check in multiple directions—not just once and hope for the best.

Even a difference of 2cm across the base can throw the whole pool off-balance.

Addressing Drainage Around the Pool Site

If your garden’s prone to puddles after a drizzle, you’ll need to fix that first.

Poor drainage doesn’t just make your pool sloshy—it can also erode the base, leading to uneven settling or worse, a slow collapse. French drains, raised bases, or just moving to a drier patch can help.

Ideal Foundation Materials

Now we’re into the good stuff—what to actually put under your above ground pool. There’s no one-size-fits-all, but here are the most popular choices for swimming pools UK families love.

Compacted Sand Base (Most Common)

Providing Cushioning and Levelling

Sand is a go-to for many pool owners. It’s affordable, easy to work with, and helps cushion the base.

Spread it evenly and tamp it down firmly with a plate compactor. Loose sand = shifting pool.

Advantages and Disadvantages

On the plus side, sand is soft and gentle on liners. On the downside? It can wash away over time if not properly contained—especially if drainage isn't sorted.

Use a border, pool pad, or groundsheet underneath to hold everything in place.

Concrete Slab (Most Stable, but Higher Cost)

Requirements for Thickness and Reinforcement

A concrete slab is the Fort Knox of pool bases. It doesn’t shift, it doesn’t sink, and it gives you a perfectly flat surface.

But it does take more effort. You’ll want at least 4 inches of reinforced concrete—more for larger pools.

Drainage Considerations for Concrete

Water can pool around the edges if you’re not careful. Slightly slope the slab or install nearby drainage channels to keep everything dry and safe.

Crushed Stone or Paver Base (Good Alternatives)

Benefits for Stability and Drainage

Crushed stone or pavers offer a nice middle ground. They drain well, they’re stable, and they’re less messy than sand in wet weather.

Bonus: they can look quite smart, especially with a neat border.

Need for Proper Compaction

The key is compaction. If you don’t tamp them down properly, you’ll still get shifting—and possibly damage to the pool base.

Use a mechanical compactor or hire one for a day. It’s worth it for the peace of mind.

Have you checked out our other posts?

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