We have a pool that the sides go up as we fill with water. We are putting it in a new location this year. We need to know how much sand is needed for a 16 x 16 foot area. But, since sand is expensive, is there a cheaper method to provide a soft, protective barrier for the pool base?
We did one of the intex pools also. We made a BIG sandbox with 2x4s and filled it with mansonry sand as recommended by the pool store. It is 19x19 and the cost was $100 for 4 tons of sand, hauling it ourselves. It was pretty steep but I figure when the pool comes down at the end of the season I will cover the sand box for winter and not have to buy any more sand (or very little) ever again. If you can find a masonry sand pit (like we did) it definately sells cheaper buy the ton than bagged at the store.
If you have time and extra hands, take an old screen and sift dirt thru the fine mesh. You can then mix that with sand and get by for less money than all sand. If you are lucky enough to live in or near a sandy area where you can get sand free, you can sift regular sand to get all the big hunks out and get it free. River beds are great for this.
WE put down a layer of thin styrofoam sheets under our above ground (24 foot round) pool. It not only feels lovely and soft under the liner,but it keeps any stones from poking through. Our liner has lasted now for 18 years, and that is quite an exceptional life span!
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