how much to fill a pool with dirt

2 min read 05-02-2025

How Much Dirt to Fill a Pool? A Guide to Backfilling

Meta Description: Planning to fill your old pool with dirt? This comprehensive guide helps you calculate the amount of dirt needed, covering factors like pool size, fill method, and compaction. Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and ensure a safe, efficient backfill.

Title: How Much Dirt to Fill a Pool? A Complete Guide

Understanding Your Pool's Dimensions

Before you even think about ordering a truckload of dirt, you need to know the exact dimensions of your pool. This isn't just about the surface area; the depth plays a crucial role. Grab your measuring tape and carefully measure the following:

Length: Measure the longest side of your pool.
Width: Measure the shortest side of your pool.
Average Depth: This is trickier. If your pool has a consistent depth, it's easy. If it's a variable depth pool (common for inground pools), measure the depth at several points and calculate an average.

Accurate measurements are essential for an accurate dirt calculation. Inaccurate measurements could lead to ordering too much or too little dirt, costing you time and money.

Calculating the Cubic Footage

Now, let's calculate the volume of your pool. The basic formula for the volume of a rectangular prism (which most pools approximate) is:

Volume (cubic feet) = Length x Width x Average Depth

Example: A pool measuring 20 feet long, 10 feet wide, and 5 feet deep would have a volume of 1000 cubic feet (20 x 10 x 5 = 1000).

Accounting for Compaction

Dirt compacts significantly once it's been moved and settled. You'll need to add extra dirt to account for this. A general rule of thumb is to add 20-30% to your initial volume calculation.

Example (continuing from above): Adding 25% to our 1000 cubic feet gives us 1250 cubic feet (1000 x 1.25 = 1250). This accounts for the settling and compaction of the dirt.

Different Pool Shapes

The above calculation works for rectangular pools. For other shapes like round or kidney-shaped pools, the calculation gets more complex. You can try approximating the shape as a rectangle, but for more accuracy, you might consider using online calculators specifically designed for irregular shapes or contacting a professional landscaper for help with estimation.

Choosing Your Fill Method

How you fill your pool impacts the amount of dirt needed. Here are two common methods:

Dumping from a Truck: This is the fastest method, but it can lead to uneven settling. You might need extra dirt to fill in low spots after the initial fill.
Manual Filling: This allows for greater control over the fill process and minimizes the risk of uneven settling. However, it's far more labor-intensive.

Remember to account for settling with either method, but especially when dumping directly from a truck.

Additional Considerations

Existing Fill Material: If there's already some fill material in the pool, subtract its volume from your total calculation.
Soil Type: The type of soil also affects compaction. Clay soils compact more than sandy soils.
Professional Help: For large pools or complex shapes, consider getting help from a professional landscaper or excavation company. They have the experience and equipment to handle the project efficiently and accurately.

Conclusion

Filling an old pool with dirt may seem straightforward, but precise calculations save you time, money, and potential headaches. By carefully measuring your pool, accounting for compaction, and choosing the appropriate fill method, you can ensure a smooth and successful backfilling project. Remember to always prioritize safety and consider professional help if needed for larger or more complex projects.