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 pool. It is best to use a building level, transit and a measuring stick to determine the
required depth of 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’ wider ( Recommended for the first time installations, even though a
1’ excavation is acceptable) all around than the actual pool dimension, it is important that the
excavator does not dig the 2’ ledge around the hopper too deep. A sturdier pool will result when
the pool rests on undisturbed earth. It is better to have to remove a inch or two by hand then to
have to build up after the excavator had gone too deep. Any voids beneath the wall panels cause
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.
IMPORTANT NOTE: if installing steps with your Metric Inground installation, you
must begin the process at the step site. Wall panels must first be mounted to
the step and wall panel assembly continues from there.
PREPARING FOR WALK-IN STEP
12
