How to Properly Measure Your Pool's Wall Height

As a pool owner, there are many invaluable skills, and one of them is definitely learning how to measure your pool correctly. Luckily, it's not too tricky to get right, and all you need is a standard tape measure.

Above Ground Pool Wall Measurement

Above ground pools are relatively uniform, which makes your job much easier when it comes to measuring the wall height. The most common above ground pools have a height of 48", 52", or 54", but yours may be a little different.

To accurately measure the height of your pool, measure from the outside edge of the pool. This means that if you have any landscaping, such as rocks or gravel, around the base of your pool, you'll need to remove it to get an accurate reading.

Measure from the very top of the pool wall, under the top rail, to the very bottom of the pool, where it slips into the bottom track.

Inground Pool Wall Measurement

Inground pools can have many unique shapes and sizes, but you still don't have to fret about measuring the pool's height! You need to pay attention to the details, but it's nothing to worry about.

Although it's easier to measure an empty pool rather than a full one, it's understandable if you don't want to sacrifice the swimming time that comes with draining and refilling a pool. By using a plumb line, you can accurately measure your pool without draining it at all.

What you will need:

• String
• A small weight
• Skimmer or vacuum pole
• Someone to help (or two)

Instructions:

1. Cut a length of string that's several feet longer than the deep end of your pool.
2. Tie the weight to one end of the string, and tie the other end of the string to the pole.
3. Hold the pole over the area you wish to measure and drop the weight into the water. Then, have a partner verify that the weight has sunk to the pool floor.
4. Have your partner exit the pool, so there's nothing in the pool except the plumb line.
5. Pick the string up out of the water, and note where it's wet from being submerged in the water.
6. Measure the distance between the top of the wet portion of the string and the bottom of the weight.
7. This is the height of your pool (in that area!)

Remember that some pools have a dished middle, or a shallow end and a deep end, and therefore you need to measure at multiple points. For an in-depth guide on measuring various pool types, see our Pool Measuring Guide.

Tips

• Don't assume that your pool is just a "standard" size. Ensure that you measure all necessary dimensions and double-check them before purchasing a suitable liner.
• Make a note of all dimensions! Once you've measured your pool, you're not going to want to do it again. Note down all your pool dimensions, including all the slopes, slants, and hoppers of your particular pool.
• Recruit a friend to help you with measuring your pool - it can be more accurate when you have 2-4 people working on it.
• Always measure on a flat surface.
• Take your time, an extra couple of seconds now to organize your thoughts and measurements.