Installing a round above‑ground swimming pool can be a smooth, efficient project when you’re prepared. Below is a clear, organized walkthrough — plus helpful tips and a video — to guide you from start to finish.

🧰 ORGANIZE YOUR TOOLS & MATERIALS

Having the right tools on hand makes the entire installation faster and easier. Separate your hardware, tools, and pool components so everything is easy to access.

Tools You Will Need

• Shovel
• Rake
• Tape Measure
• Phillips Head Screwdriver or Screw Gun
• Duct Tape
• Carpenter’s Level and/or Transit (optional)
• Landscape Stakes & C‑Clamps (optional)
• Patio Blocks 2″x8″x16″ (1 per bottom plate)
• Box Cutter
• Wrenches (commonly 5/16 and ¼)

You’ll also need very fine sand for the pool base and cove, plus one patio block per post.

After organizing your materials, choose a large, level area in your yard. Check for underground utilities and ensure your installation complies with all local and state codes.

🔍 ANALYZE THE AREA

Quick Tip: Renting a transit from a local equipment store provides precise leveling. A long board with a level also works well.

📏 MEASURE YOUR POOL SITE

To find the center point, measure off an existing object (like a fence or wall) and mark where the pool wall will sit. Then:

1. Measure ½ the pool’s width.
2. Stake your tape measure at the center.
3. Pull the tape to the radius + 1 extra foot for working room.
4. Walk the tape in a circle to trace your perimeter.

🌱 CLEAR THE AREA

Remove sod, roots, rocks, and debris to ensure a smooth pool floor.

Quick Tip: A sod cutter dramatically speeds up grass removal. Most large hardware stores rent them.

🪵 LEVEL THE GROUND

Clearing the area may expose uneven ground. Always dig down the high spots — never build up low areas. This prevents settling and long‑term damage.

Once the area is within 1 inch of level, you’re ready to build.

🔗 CONNECT THE BOTTOM RAILS

Attach each bottom rail to its bottom plate. Whether metal or resin, the process is similar. Measure the diameter in several spots to ensure the ring is perfectly round, then stake it in place.

Quick Tip: Lay out all rails and plates around the perimeter before connecting them.

🧱 BLOCK THE BOTTOM PLATES

Place a patio block under each bottom plate for added support. Dig each block into the ground so the track remains level.

Quick Tip: Ensure all blocks — and all bottom plates — are level within ½".

🏖️ ADD THE POOL BASE

Remove one bottom rail and mark the plate locations. Spread sand evenly throughout the pool area, then replace the rail.

Quick Tip: Trace the bottom plate onto the block with chalk so you can reposition it perfectly.

🧱 INSTALL THE WALL

Pool walls can be heavy and awkward. Place the wall into the bottom track and adjust as needed. Use landscaping stakes to support the wall as you work.

Quick Tip: Confirm the skimmer cutout is at the top before securing the wall.

🔩 WALL BARS & BOLTS

• Attach wall bolts using hand tools
• Fill every hole with a bolt
• Wall bars must not touch each other
• Cover bolt heads inside the pool with three layers of duct tape

🏔️ CREATE THE COVE

Build a 6–8 inch high cove around the inside perimeter.

Quick Tip: A 45‑degree slope made from sand or a pool cove liner works best.

🏗️ MOUNT THE UPRIGHTS

Install uprights into each bottom plate. These support the pool wall.

For resin uprights: Slide the upright into the resin cuff until it snaps in — no hardware needed.

Quick Tip: Ensure all tabs are fully engaged at the bottom.

🔨 TAMP THE POOL BASE

Tamp the sand to create a smooth, solid base. Sweep away any lines afterward.

Quick Tip: Lightly wetting the sand helps it pack more firmly.

🟦 INSTALL THE LINER

Lay the liner in the sun to soften it, then roll it up for easier placement. Remove shoes before stepping inside the pool.

Liner Types

Overlap Liner

• Hangs over the pool wall

Beaded Liner

• Snaps into a bead track installed on top of the wall

Unibead Liner

• Hooks onto the wall
• Offers more pattern options
• Reduces excess material

🧩 ATTACH STABILIZER RAILS & TOP PLATES

Work out wrinkles from the liner, then install stabilizer rails around the top of the wall. Secure top plates to each upright.

Quick Tip: Use a level to ensure uprights are perfectly vertical.

🛠️ ATTACH THE TOP RAIL

Place all top rails before tightening screws. This ensures proper alignment.

💧 SLOWLY FILL THE POOL

Add water gradually. When there’s about 1 inch of water, smooth out wrinkles in the liner. Fill halfway, then install the skimmer and return fittings. After connecting the filter and pump, finish filling the pool.

Quick Tip: Adjusting the liner early gives you a cleaner, tighter finish.

🚨 SAFETY FIRST

Your pool includes safety labels — apply them in the designated areas. Always follow local safety codes and supervise swimmers at all times.