Can You Build A Pool On A Sloped Yard?
Published January 30, 2024
If you’ve been putting off building your dream pool because of your sloped backyard, then you can put your worries to rest. It might be more challenging than building on flat terrain, but you can construct a pool on a sloped yard.
There are several ways to do it. With a healthy bit of creativity and hiring the right people to do the job, you can have a stunning swimming pool in your sloping backyard in no time.
If you still have doubts, here’s a practical guide on how to build a pool on a sloped yard.
Ways To Build A Swimming Pool On Sloping Terrain
The first and most important thing you must consider when building a pool on a sloped yard is how steep the slope is. From there, you’ll know if you can grade the land or put up terraces or retaining walls.
Grading
If your yard has minimal sloping, it might be more practical to grade it.
Land grading is leveling the land to make it even and removing any lumps, bumps, and slopes. It’s usually done to prepare the ground for landscaping, construction or to correct a drainage problem.
Leveling your yard is generally the best option if it’s not that steep. The most straightforward way to do this is to scrape off the existing topsoil. Level the ground, then spread the topsoil back evenly. You can also scrape some of the higher ground and use the dirt to fill the low spots until the ground is even.
However, since you’re constructing a pool, you may need to compact the soil. You’ll also need to make allowances for the drainage system.
The project won’t come cheap. Heavy machinery, like backhoes and excavators, are essential for the task.
Retaining Walls
A retaining wall is constructed on a sloping area to hold back the soil and keep it from collapsing. But you can also use it to add elements or create gorgeous accent spaces to your pool such as a deck jet or waterfall. A pool with retaining wall can also add a sense of privacy to your pool area.
Retaining walls come in many types. Builders use various materials like poured concrete, stacking stones, or cinder blocks. Choosing the best type of retaining wall for pool on slope depends on how steep your yard’s slope is.
The steeper the slope, the bigger the lateral pressure your wall has to withstand. As such, the bigger and more durable it should be.
Terracing
If retaining walls are too dull for your tastes, do an upgrade by turning them into terraces.
Terracing a slope involves building a series of retaining walls into the hillside, with the top of each wall leveled off. The result should look like a set of stairs.
Installing terraces instead of retaining walls is ideal if your backyard has a gentle slope. Aside from preventing soil erosion, you can use it as an access stair to your pool or a terraced garden.
Swimming Pool Ideas For Sloped Backyards
After deciding the ideal way to build a pool on your sloped yard, here are some pool ideas for your ascending topographies:
Infinity Edge
Remember those infinity pools we’ve all lusted after on Instagram and Pinterest? Though it’s often installed on rooftops, it would also make a scenic addition to your sloping backyard.
This type of pool has no swim current. Depending on the design, one or several sides of its walls are slightly shorter than the others. So, the water flows through them and into a catch basin right underneath the pool. The design creates an illusion of an edgeless pool. The water flows infinitely, hence the name.
Multi-Level Terraces
The life simulator game “The Sims” has made multi-level swimming pools popular. Aside from making the most out of gentle slopes, it also adds an air of grandeur to your space. Why settle for one swimming pool when you can have multiple pools stacked on top of each other?
But the best thing about multi-level terraced pools is their flexibility. Besides having multiple swimming spaces, the terraces can function as decks and lounges. Some people with long-sloped yards even have slides installed. Your imagination is your limit.
Frequently Asked Questions About A Pool On A Sloped Yard
1. Can you construct an inground pool on a hill?
Yes. You can use construction techniques such as grading, terracing, or constructing retaining walls. This is true even if your property is on a steep hill. Boca Raton pool builders can help you decide which technique is best for your property. They’ll consider safety, aesthetics, and functionality.
2. How to fully utilize the sloped area for a pool?
One option is to construct walls on the shallower side of the pool. This would allow you to install a spa bath or playground for children. Meanwhile, the deeper side can serve as the regular pool for adults and teens.
3. Is it more costly to build a pool on a slope?
The construction of pools on sloped yards can be more costly because you need to level the ground for the pool to go into. Generally, it requires a retaining wall around pool and necessary drainage to protect it. As a result, the extra materials and equipment for constructing a retaining wall or terrace will add to the cost. Remember, the steeper the yard is sloped, the more expensive the pool installation will be due to this incline.
4. What kind of pool is suitable for a yard with a sloping terrain?
The pool choices for a sloped yard are flexible. You can choose between vinyl, concrete, or fiberglass. There are various shapes and liner styles for customization.
Crafting Your Dream Pool On A Sloped Canvas
Building a pool on a sloped yard has challenges, but with careful planning and expertise, it offers unique possibilities. A pool in a sloped backyard can be made real through grading, retaining walls, or terracing. The design options are limitless. They’re fueled by your imagination. You can choose from stunning infinity edges to multi-level terraces.
Ready to transform your sloped yard into a poolside sanctuary? Seek guidance from experienced pool builders who can ensure safety, aesthetics, and functionality. Don’t let the slope deter you—let your dream pool become the centerpiece of your tiered landscape.
Hire Boca’s Favorite Pool Builders
Excel Pool and Patio Solutions is your trustworthy provider of pool services in Boca Raton. We are experts in pool and patio remodeling and can handle your resurfacing needs as well. Our technicians are vetted and trained for your guaranteed satisfaction. Get to know us by browsing our website or reaching out to us with any questions.
Contact our team today to request a free estimate for pool construction, maintenance, repairs and more.
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About The Author
I am Tracy Gorman, a seasoned writer from the Philippines. I possess the research and writing skills to delve into any niche. Get to know me!
