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Establish the Benchmark of the pool. The finished height of the pool includes the wall height, coping and
the decking (pavers, wood deck etc.). The Benchmark will determine the depth of the excavation where
the panels will rest. With the shape of the pool excavation marked out, its height relative to the ground
must be determined. The pool should be set at a height so that rain and splash will drain away, rather
than towards the pools. It is best to use a building level, transit and a measuring stick to determine the
required depth of the excavation. It is best to set up the transit in a location so that you can leave it in the
same place for the entire pool excavation. It is best to keep the top of the pool 2-6” above the ground at
the highest point so that you are able to place your deck on undisturbed soil.
Since the excavation will be 2 feet wider than the actual pool dimension, it is important that the excavator
does not dig the 2 ft ledge around the hopper too deep. (
NOTE: A 2 ft excavation is recommended for the
first time installations, after that, a 1 ft excavation is acceptable
) A sturdier pool will result when the pool rests
on undisturbed earth. It is better to have to remove an inch or two by hand than to have to build up after
the excavator has gone too deep. Any voids beneath the wall panels caused by large rock removal, etc.,
must be filled and properly compacted.
INGROUND: LEVELING THE EXCAVATION
TRANSIT
2" - 6" ABOVE HIGHEST GROUND
OUTLINE OF POOL
MEASURING STICK
FLOOR OF EXCAVATION
SIDE VIEW OF EXCAVATION SITE
CORRECT
INCORRECT
UNDISTURBED EARTH
CUT AWAY
FILL IN
POOL WALL
POOL WALL
If steps are going to be installed, excavate a 6 foot by 10 foot area where they are to be located on the pool.
Please see the dig specifications for locations of steps.
PREPARING FOR WALK-IN STEP
