To ensure your Shark Tank Pool is properly supported and stays level, you’ll need to prepare a solid, compacted base before your installation date.
We recommend removing all grass or vegetation and creating a decomposed or crushed granite pad that extends at least 1 foot wider than the diameter of your pool. A 3” thick pad works best in most cases, though 1.5” to 2” may be sufficient if your ground is very hard and the area does not retain water.
– Do not use sand or pea gravel as a base, as they can shift and cause the pool to settle unevenly.
– Your gravel base must be compacted thoroughly (with a hand tamper or plate compactor) and completely level in all directions.
– Do not include a slope for drainage.
– The pad should be firm enough that your foot does not sink more than 1/4” when walking on it.
If you’re unsure whether your area is truly level, you can check by placing a long (pool-diameter length), straight 2x4 on the ground where you want your pool and setting a level on the narrow side. Even if the space appears flat, you may find bumps or dips that need to be corrected.
**If your base is not level on install day, we’ll either install the pool on the unlevel surface (not ideal) or reschedule your installation for a $250 fee. Please note that rescheduled installs may be placed at the back of our calendar, which could mean a wait of several weeks.
If you plan to place your tank on a deck, please check your deck’s weight capacity. When filled, a stock tank can weigh 6000-9000+ lbs. You’ll need to ensure that the location can support all that weight. A wooden deck may or may not be able to support it.