Best Sand For Under Pool

Best Sand For Under Pool

There are almost two dozen different types of sand. For example, biogenic sand is composed almost entirely of tiny skeletons like coral and shells, while volcanic sand forms from lava.

However, in construction, there are seven commonly used sand types. From utility sand made of crushed quartz to fine masonry sand, every variety has a unique appearance and uses. What is the best sand for under your pool?

The best sand to put under a pool is mason sand, sometimes called mortar sand. Mason sand is the perfect size and consistency for leveling pools with no impurities or large sharp edges to damage your pool liner. Mason sand is made up of small granules that is less coarse than other sand and packs well to give a smooth surface for your pool.

What Is The Best Sand To Put Under A Pool

An above-ground pool typically costs hundreds or even thousands of dollars, so naturally, you want it to last. Choosing the best sand to put under your pool is essential.

Without a solid, well-draining, level base, your pool is sunk. Unfortunately, it’s easy to get the wrong sand because there are so many different types.

You don’t need fun and decorative sand because no one should see it if the sand is set up correctly. Sand that’s too fine won’t drain the same.

Likewise, too-big sand grains can result in damage to the bottom of your pool, which can cause leaks. Below I’ve included some information about standard under-pool sand options to help you make an informed decision.

Mason Sand For Under Pool

Mason sand is the perfect size and consistency for leveling pools. This fine sand has no impurities and no large sharp edges to damage your pool liner because it is created that way at the quarry.

According to Shoreline Aggregate, this unique sand is made “by crushing granite, gneiss, limestone or trap rock and then running it through screens to remove all larger pieces.”

In addition to its use under pools, masons prefer mason sand because of its even consistency and high quality.

A master mason uses the sand named to create mortar, which fills in gaps between pavers and other building uses. However, it is also extremely smooth and easy to level, which is why you want it under your pool.

Quikrete All-Purpose Sand For Pool Base

Quickrete’s All-Purpose sand belongs under pavers. However, it is not the right choice for placing below your pool. This is an elementary mistake because Quickrete also makes mason sand. Always double-check your labels.

If you plan to use pavers below your pool, however, Quickrete’s All-Purpose sand is fantastic. As with all pool bases, you need flat, level ground before you lay the sand down.

If you’re on a hill, this means first digging down into the hilltop or side to create a level base.

You can grab Quickrete’s All-Purpose Sand from Amazon. These fifty-pound bags of coarse sand are fantastic between pavers to help keep them in place.

Using sand helps distribute weight evenly. Plus, it allows for better drainage than cemented in place pavers can provide.

Sale
Quikrete All Purpose Coarse Sand - 50 lb
  • Product Type :Tools
  • Package Dimensions :13.5" L X3.5" W X21.0" H
  • Country Of Origin :United States
  • Package Weight :49.9Lbs

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Can You Use Paver Sand Under A Pool

Paver sand by itself is the wrong choice for under your pool. However, if you are using pavers, choosing the sand that is meant to go with them makes sense.

In this case, you are filling in the spaces between your pavers rather than setting up a solid sand base. If you use sand under the pavers, I still recommend mason sand instead.

Leveling paver sand is simple. All you need do is spread it out, so it fills up the gaps between your pavers.

However, it would be best if you did not leave extra sand on top of the pavers when you’re done. Instead, sweep away the excess with a broom.

Pool Sand Calculator

The sizes and styles listed below are the most common oval and round above-ground pools. Feel free to bookmark this page for future reference so you can check this chart when you need sand.

It’s best to round up or grab a little extra sand in case of spillage rather than making a second trip because you don’t have enough.

Also, keep in mind that other pool sizes exist, and you’ll need a different amount of sand if your pool has different dimensions.

Common Oval Pool Sizes

Oval Pool SizeTons of SandYards of Sand
18′ x 45′ Oval85
18′ x 33′ Oval64
15′ x 30′ Oval53
15′ x 24′ Oval4.52.5
12′ x 24′ Oval42.5

Common Round Pool Sizes

Round Pool SizeTons of SandYards of Sand
30 Feet7.55
29 Feet75
27 Feet6.54
26 Feet64
24 Feet53
21 Feet4.53
18 Feet42.5
15 Feet32

Helpful Tips To Know About The Best Sand To Put Under A Pool

Putting sand under your pool gives it an even, level surface that drains well. It’s essential to set up the area beneath your pool correctly if you want it to last longer than a single season or less.

Here are more helpful tips to know about the best sand to put under a pool.

  • Always set your pool sand on level ground and inside the track. Otherwise, the sand will wash away over time, which is a waste of money.
  • “Pool Sand,” doesn’t belong under your pool. It may seem like the right choice because of the name but pool sand is made exclusively from very fine-grained silica. These tiny granules are ideal for putting inside a pool filter, but there’s no good reason to use this more expensive sand below your pool.
  • According to Pool Pro, “…sand should be compacted with a plate compactor, and then hand troweled to a smooth finish. If this is not done, the first time you get into the pool, your feet will sink into the sand, creating divots…” unfortunately, divots cause problems with the liner integrity and can impact the lifespan of your pool.

Final Thoughts

Putting the best sand under your pool is crucial for keeping it stable and ensuring you have drainage. Masonry sand is the best choice, but you can still use other options as long as you install the sand correctly.

Packing sand down and leveling it off is also essential. You want your above-ground pool to last for years, so giving it a superb, solid base to sit on is a smart move, and without the sand, you will probably have drainage issues with water that splashes out.

That can lead to mold growth under your pool. Fortunately, with the correct information, it’s not hard to find the sand you need.

Drew Thomas

My name is Drew Thomas and I’m the creator of Fun In the Yard, your one stop site for all your outdoor games, sports, party activities, outdoor gear, and lawn & gardening tips.

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