How should I prepare my site for a Plungie pool delivery?
Installing a Plungie pool doesn't mean digging a giant hole and pouring a concrete slab. In fact, you don't need a concrete slab at all. What you do need is a strong, level, and properly compacted base made from the right kind of materials. This foundation is critical—it keeps your pool stable and prevents it from shifting over time.
1. What Does the Pool Sit On?
Your Plungie sits on a compacted layer of gravel—not dirt, not mud, and definitely not your backyard grass. We call this the subbase.
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You’ll need at least 8 inches of compacted gravel.
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It must be very flat and level—within 1/4 inch tolerance across the whole area.
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No roots, grass, or construction junk allowed under there.
This acts like a supportive mattress. If it’s uneven or soft, the pool could settle or tilt.
2. How Strong Does the Ground Need to Be?
Before placing the subbase, the soil underneath (called the subgrade) needs to be strong too.
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It must handle at least 1,500 pounds per square foot.
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If the soil is soft, sandy, or full of clay, your builder may need to remove and replace it, or compact it better.
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A soil test may be required in some locations—this is where a geotechnical engineer can help.
3. Do I Need to Dig a Hole?
Completely depends on how you would like to install your Plungie. It can be in-ground, above ground, or anywhere in between. If you're pool is going any part in ground, Your contractor will excavate just enough to:
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Remove all topsoil, soft dirt, and roots
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Get down to firm, stable soil
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Make space for the 8" compacted subbase
Also, this area must stay dry and avoid undermining any nearby buildings or footings.
4. What About the Space Around the Pool?
Once the pool is in place, the space around it (the backfill area) is filled with stone, not dirt:
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Use AASHTO #57 stone
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Compact it lightly in 12-inch layers
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Don’t over-compact or jam it in too hard—it could press on the pool shell
5. How Do We Keep Water Away From the Pool?
You don’t want water sitting around the shell—it weakens the surrounding ground. Here’s how to protect it:
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Install a drainage system to move water away
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Add an impervious surround, like:
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Clay capping (special waterproof dirt)
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Waterproof membrane
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Concrete apron with a waterproof joint
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6. Do I Call 811? Yes!
Before digging anything, always Call Before You Dig by dialing 811. They’ll come out and mark underground utility lines like gas, electric, water, and internet. Hitting one of those is dangerous and very expensive.
7. What’s My Responsibility as a Homeowner?
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Hire a qualified builder or contractor familiar with site preparation
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Make sure the foundation is built correctly to spec
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Don’t assume dirt = solid. Proper prep is everything.
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Maintain site drainage over time and avoid planting trees too close to the pool
Summary:
You don’t need a slab. But you do need a strong, level, compacted base. Think of it like laying the perfect foundation for a house—the better the prep, the longer and better your pool will perform. And if it's not done right, it could lead to movement, cracking, drainage problems, and warranty issues.
When in doubt, ask us or consult a local professional. We’re here to help make sure your foundation gets done right the first time.