When it comes to installing an above ground swimming pool, the excitement of backyard fun is often the focus—but one of the most crucial decisions happens before the pool ever goes up: choosing the right base material. Homeowners in Laurel County, KY, including London and East Bernstadt, frequently ask us, “Which is better for my above ground pool base—gravel, sand, or concrete?”

At Laurel County Farm and Home Site Solutions, we’ve prepped countless backyards across the region with professional above ground pool base installation in Laurel County KY. In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of the most common base materials so you can make an informed choice for your property, your soil, and your summer plans.

Whether you’re a DIYer looking to get it right or searching for a pool pad installer near me in Laurel County KY, this guide is for you.

Why Your Pool Base Material Matters

Before we dig into materials, it’s worth understanding what your pool base actually does:

• Supports the pool’s structure and keeps it level

• Prevents liner damage from rocks, roots, or shifting soil

• Improves drainage to avoid water pooling around or under your pool

• Extends the life of your investment

Choosing the wrong base material—or installing it incorrectly—can lead to problems like liner tears, pool collapse, or uneven water levels.

Let’s explore your options.

Option 1: Gravel Base for Above Ground Pool (Most Popular in Laurel County)

Gravel is one of the most durable, cost-effective, and reliable materials for base pads in our area. It’s particularly suited to the clay-rich soil found throughout Laurel County KY, which expands and contracts with moisture changes.

✔️ Pros:

• Excellent drainage

• Highly compactable and stable

• Minimizes shifting and settling

• Withstands freeze/thaw cycles

❌ Cons:

• Must be properly compacted

• Edging is needed to contain the gravel

• Requires machinery for best results

Best Use Case:

For homeowners in East Bernstadt KY or London KY who want a reliable, long-term foundation that resists settling and won’t wash away, gravel is the go-to solution.

Many of our customers search for gravel base for above ground pool East Bernstadt KY, and it’s easy to see why—it simply works better in our local soil conditions.

Option 2: Sand Base (Common, but Risky in Kentucky)

Sand is often recommended in DIY tutorials due to its soft texture and affordability. However, in Laurel County’s wet clay terrain, it’s not always the best choice.

✔️ Pros:

• Easy to level

• Soft underfoot

• Inexpensive and widely available

❌ Cons:

• Easily shifts under pressure

• Can erode or wash out with rain

• Provides poor drainage in clay-heavy areas

Best Use Case:

In dry climates or where soil is naturally well-drained. In Laurel County KY, where heavy spring rains are common, sand is a gamble.

We often receive calls from customers searching for pool base leveling service East Bernstadt KY because a sand base has shifted and caused uneven water levels or even liner damage.

Option 3: Concrete Slab (Strong but Costly)

Concrete is the most permanent of all options. While it’s extremely durable, it comes with a much higher price tag and may not be necessary for most homeowners in London KY or rural Laurel County.

✔️ Pros:

• Permanently level and stable

• Great for semi-inground installs

• Low maintenance once installed

❌ Cons:

• Expensive to install

• Not forgiving—can tear liners if not covered with a pad

• Hard to remove or modify

Best Use Case:

If you’re building a semi-inground pool or want a base that doubles as a patio or deck foundation, concrete might be the right choice. However, for most above ground swimming pool pad installs in London KY, it’s often more than necessary.

Comparison Table: Gravel vs. Sand vs. Concrete

Our Local Recommendation for Laurel County Homeowners

After hundreds of installations across Laurel County, London, and East Bernstadt, we overwhelmingly recommend a gravel base for above ground pool installs.

Here’s why it works best in our region:

• Handles Kentucky’s freeze-thaw cycles with ease

• Compacts tightly to form a strong base

• Provides superior drainage on clay-heavy soil

• Compatible with pool liner pads to prevent punctures

That’s why we’ve become the go-to professional pool pad installation team in Laurel County KY.

Why DIY Isn’t Always the Best Route

Installing a pool base might seem simple, but doing it right requires more than a shovel and a spirit level. Here’s why homeowners turn to us:

Precision Leveling

Our 10-ton excavator with laser-guided grading ensures a perfect, level base—something that’s nearly impossible to achieve with hand tools.

Soil Expertise

We tailor each installation to your unique ground conditions, adjusting base depth and drainage approach for long-term performance.

Time & Effort Savings

Many customers who searched for above ground pool dirt pad contractor KY told us they wished they’d skipped the DIY route and called us from the start.

Our Installation Process: What to Expect

If you’re ready to move forward, here’s how our excavation for pool base Laurel County KY service works:

1. Site Visit & Quote – We assess your property and provide a transparent estimate.

2. Excavation & Grading – We remove sod, level the ground, and grade for drainage.

3. Base Build – We lay and compact high-quality gravel, crusher run, or a combo tailored to your site.

4. Protective Pad Install – We finish with a protective liner pad to extend the life of your pool.

We handle everything so you can relax and focus on enjoying your pool.

Real Results in Your Backyard

From rural farms in East Bernstadt KY to suburban lots in London KY, we’ve built pool pads that last for years. Don’t just take our word for it—see the results and customer testimonials at LaurelKYDirt.com.

Still Not Sure? Let’s Chat

Choosing the right base for your above ground pool is a big decision. We’re here to make it easier. Whether you want gravel, are curious about concrete, or need to correct a DIY sand mistake, we’ve got you covered.

Contact Laurel County Farm and Home Site Solutions today for your free quote or consultation.

📍 Proudly serving London KY, East Bernstadt KY, and all of Laurel County.