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Pool Kits – Tips for Installing Above Ground Pool Kits

Pool kits are a great way to save money but still get a great swimming pool.  If you have decided that a swimming pool kit is the way you want to go, then the first step is the installation process.  In this article we will take you through a few tips for installing an inground swimming pool kit and and above ground swimming pool kit – which we would hope that you read before you actually decide the purchase the pool so you have an idea of the work involved.

Above Ground Pool Kits Installation

Pool Kits

The first thing you need to do is to determine which shape of pool you are going to purchase.  If you are not the best handyman in the world but still plan on installing your own kit, then you should consider  purchasing a round pool kit, as they are easier to install than oval and other shaped above ground pools.   After you decide which type you are going to purchase, then you need to find 3 – 4 friends who are willing to help you out – don’t try to install the pool yourself or you are going to have issues.

Their are three main steps involved with installing above ground pool kits:

1. Flattening and leveling the ground surface
2. Putting up the walls
3. Getting the liner set in properly

Leveling the Ground Surface:

This is simply manual labor, but it’s also tedious since you really need to come within one inch of being level.  One of the hardest parts is finding a way to make sure the ground is level, and one way you can do this is by laying a long 2×4 on the area with a level on top.  You will have to move the 2×4 to different areas to make sure the ground is level everywhere, but this should do the trick.  In addition, the ground needs to be packed in well enough so it does not settle while you are putting up the pool kit walls.

Putting Up The Above Ground Pool Kit Walls

This can be the most tricky part, especially if it is windy (so don’t do this on a windy day).  Before you get to the actual wall however, you will need to put up the wall track.  Then you can move onto the wall.  The pool kits walls come rolled up in once piece – and that piece is heavy (usually weighs more than 200 pounds).  You will need to unroll the wall and install it in the track, which can be tricky – you have to get it right, and they are heavy…so make sure those 3-4 people are nice and strong.  Also, be patient, and again don’t do this in the wind. 

Getting the Pool Kits Liner Set In Properly

This is the least difficult part of the set-up, simply because you can adjust the liner a little bit even after you fill up the pool.  However, you do need to make sure there is no air underneath and behind it.  You an remedy this by simply taking a shop vac and sucking out that air.  In addition, you should have one of your friends (or you) jump in the pool (shoes off) while you fill it up so they can work on smoothing out the liner – you don’t want creases and you will want the liner to be as smooth as possible.

Of course, you still will need to install the pool kit pump and heater, but as for the inital set up this is about it.  Make sure you give yourself a good 3 days (weekend works great usually) for the process, as it will take a few days of good work to finish the job properly.  Also, make sure you follow all the instructions that come with your pool – these installation tips for above ground pools are generic and may vary according to the model you purchase.