For most above ground pools, manufacturers commonly recommend a 2-inch sand base inside the pool, under the liner.
This helps protect the liner and provides a softer pool floor for walking. Masonry sand is widely available for delivery from earthwork and landscaping centers.
Pool Base Sand Chart
Use the chart below to estimate how much sand you need for common above ground pool sizes. For more guidance on preparing the base, see our guide on what to put under an above ground pool.
The cove is the wedge that fills the angle where the pool wall meets the floor. Which columns you use depends on what your cove is made of:
-
Sand cove: the cove is built from sand, so it adds to the amount you need to order. Use the Sand Cove columns.
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Foam cove or earth cove: the cove is made from foam or shaped from earth rather than sand. Use the Foam or Earth Cove columns.
If you are not sure which cove your installation uses, check your pool's installation manual or ask your installer before ordering.
| Pool Size | Sand Cove: Yards | Sand Cove: Tons | Foam or Earth Cove: Yards | Foam or Earth Cove: Tons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12' Round | 1 | 1.4 | 0.75 | 1 |
| 15' Round | 1.5 | 2 | 1 | 1.5 |
| 18' Round | 2 | 3 | 1.5 | 2 |
| 21' Round | 2.5 | 3.5 | 2 | 2.5 |
| 24' Round | 3 | 5 | 2.5 | 3.5 |
| 27' Round | 3.5 | 5.5 | 3 | 4 |
| 30' Round | 4 | 7.75 | 4 | 5.75 |
| 33' Round | 5.5 | 10 | 5.25 | 7.5 |
| 12' x 20' Oval | 1.75 | 2.5 | 1.25 | 1.75 |
| 12' x 24' Oval | 2 | 3 | 1.5 | 2 |
| 15' x 25' Oval | 2.75 | 3.75 | 2 | 2.75 |
| 15' x 26' Oval | 2.75 | 4 | 2 | 2.75 |
| 15' x 30' Oval | 3.5 | 5 | 2.5 | 3.5 |
| 18' x 33' Oval | 4.5 | 6.5 | 3.5 | 4.5 |
| 18' x 40' Oval | 5.5 | 7.75 | 4.5 | 6 |
| 21' x 41' Oval | 6.75 | 9 | 5.25 | 6.5 |
Note: These are general estimates. The amount of sand needed may vary depending on the excavation, liner type, and cove style used during installation. Confirm quantities with your installer or sand supplier before ordering.
What Kind of Sand Should I Use for My Pool Base?
Use masonry sand for your pool base. Masonry sand is recommended because it is washed and should be free of rocks and debris that could damage the liner.
Avoid sand that contains sharp stones, large particles, or construction debris. A smoother sand base helps protect the liner and creates a more comfortable pool floor.
How the Pool Base Should Be Layered
From the top down, a finished above ground pool base is arranged like this:
- Pool wall
- Cove
- Pool liner
- Pool pad, if used
- 2-inch sand base
- Undisturbed earth
This shows how the finished base is arranged, not the order you build it in. For the installation sequence, see Step 10 of the installation guide on building your pool's foundation.
Example of an above ground pool base with the pool wall, cove, liner, pool pad, 2-inch sand base, and undisturbed earth.
Foam cove and pool bottom pads are both available in our above ground pool liner accessories.
For additional installation guidance, view our guide on the 17 steps to installing your Round Above Ground Pool.
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