Existing area.
Asked on May 25, 2018
Is it possible to build a patio using an old above ground pool base?
by
Joseph
+3
I bought a house last year which had an old above-ground pool that needed a liner. I had the pool removed and left was a big sand pit where weeds are starting to grow. I've done some reading, but it seems like most people are only using this area for a pea gravel patio of some sort. However, I want to build a patio using mostly pavers.
Attached is a picture of the pool area. I will not be using the whole area. The pool was approx. 24' x 16'. I will be using the center 13' x 12'. I plan to take the surrounding sand and add it to the patio area and then compact it down using a machine rented from home depot.
My question is: Will the old pool base be adequate for the type of patio I want to build? Are there any additional steps I need to take to prepare it (besides removing the weeds)?
Thanks in advance!
Future patio.
There is probably plenty of sand there to get started. However, you will want to raked this area clean, define the area where the patio will be placed and follow the usual directions on laying a patio. You may have to either dig out some sand or add some sand to make it ground level.
However, make sure your area is pliable so you can level as you work! You do not want hard packed sand!
Drown the area with vinegar to get rid of the weeds. Here is how to lay a paver patio.
https://www.homedepot.com/c/how_to_install_a_paver_patio_HT_PG_OD
https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/patios-and-decks/build-a-patio-with-pavers
https://www.landscapingnetwork.com/pavers/how-to-install.html
This has some great info on the prep and installing of a paver patio, usually there's more than just sand underneath but your area and current sand look liek they'll work in fine and would love to see photos when you're done! https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/masonry-and-tiling/how-to-install-concrete-pavers
I wish I could help you more, but in my case, I left the walls up (on my 24' round pool, with a deck and walk around area)....and I'm going to make a sunken den out of it...lol...with lawn chairs in there, as well as twinkle lights, plants and a BBQ pit!! When life gives you lemons, make a beach out of it!!...:) Taking mine down wasn't an option for me (too expensive and it would involve extending the existing fencing, etc)....but I think your idea of using pavers to make a patio should work out well for you!! Good luck!!
I use to have an 18 foot above ground pool. Once my kids moved out I was stuck with a 22 foot diameter area on a hill that was terraced with railroad ties. I extended the area a little on one side so I could plant a flower garden, planted hydrangeas around the rest of perimeter, built a fire pit in the center, planted some grass, and my son put in a circular path with pavers (mother’s day gift). It’s very pretty and looks like it was designed especially for this area
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Your about one third there. Get rid of the weeds, level and compact the sand. Usually landscape fabric is under the sand to prevent weeds, but if you sweep polymeric sand into the paver joints once laid you shouldn't have a problem.