Removing an above ground pool often leaves behind a landscape that looks more like a construction site than a finished yard. The sunken base, uneven soil, and compacted ground create a stark reminder of the project you just completed. Restoring the land to its former glory, or even improving it, is a manageable project with the right approach and a little patience.
Assessing the Damage and Planning Your Recovery
The first step is to take a critical look at the area the pool occupied. You are likely dealing with a combination of issues: the base is often several inches lower than the surrounding soil, the ground underneath the base is heavily compacted, and the perimeter may be littered with sand or filter media. You also need to consider the condition of the topsoil; was it shaded and compacted beneath the pool, killing the grass, or was it preserved underneath a protective tarp? Understanding the full scope of the damage will dictate whether you need to level the entire area or just reseed it.
Removing the Last of the Equipment
Before you can begin any restoration, you must completely remove the pool liner and the support beams. Carefully inspect the perimeter walls for any nails or brackets that have worked loose. Remove any sand or filter media that was used for winterizing or that spilled around the base during setup. This debris can create an uneven surface and should be cleared away to give you a clean canvas to work with before you address the landscape.
Leveling the Low Spot
The most common issue after pool removal is the sunken crater left by the base. Simply adding topsoil to this hole is not the answer, as the weight of the soil will compact over time, leaving you with a permanent dip. The most effective method is to cut the sides of the hole straight down with a flat shovel to create a vertical wall. Then, fill the void with clean fill dirt, compacting it in thin layers with a hand tamper or plate compactor until it reaches the correct level. Only then should you add a fresh layer of quality topsoil mixed with compost on top of the fill dirt.
| Material | Purpose | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Clean Fill Dirt | To raise the level and fill the void | For the bulk of the fill below the frost line |
| Topsoil Compost Mix | To provide nutrients for grass or plants | For the top 4-6 inches where growth occurs |
Addressing Soil Compaction
The area beneath the pool and its supports was likely compacted to the point of being impermeable to grass roots. Even if you removed the grass to reinstall it, it may struggle to survive in such hard ground. To fix this, you need to aerate the surrounding soil. Use a core aerator to pull plugs of soil out of the ground, which allows air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deep into the compacted layers. This process is essential for re-establishing a healthy root system.
Revegetating the Repaired Area
Once the ground is level and aerated, you can move on to planting. If you were lucky enough to keep the topsoil covered and viable, you can simply rake it smooth and reseed the same grass variety. If the original soil was damaged, you will need to lay new sod or plant new seeds. When seeding, ensure you rake the area thoroughly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, which is critical for germination. For sod, water it immediately and consistently for the first few weeks to ensure it bonds with the soil beneath.
It is also a good opportunity to address any drainage issues that the pool may have caused. If water pooled in the area or drained toward your foundation, you can reshape the soil during this process to encourage proper runoff. Grading the slope away from structures not only fixes current problems but prevents future water damage.
Final Touches and Long-Term Care
After the new grass has established, give the entire area a light top dressing of compost to add organic matter and smooth out any slight imperfections. Be patient with the recovery; the soil microbiome has been disrupted, and it may take a full season for the area to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your yard. Regular watering and mowing will help the new growth strengthen and fill in any sparse patches.
With a little effort and planning, the space where your above ground pool once stood can become one of the most attractive and functional areas of your property. By focusing on soil quality and proper compaction, you ensure that the fix is permanent, leaving you with a yard that is flat, beautiful, and ready for whatever comes next.
