You are very welcome CliffTex, hope those kids enjoy the pool. I know mine always have.

We really are on the same page Matt. We both agree the ground prep is the most important part of the job. Build the pool on firm solid ground and whatever method of leveling you choose, do it good. The rest will go fairly easy.

As for the one inch rule. When building your pool forget it. Set everything perfect. Take the time to make it perfect by whatever means you have available. The one inch rule applies after the pool is full.

It is not uncommon for the ground to settle due to many factors. When you measure from the top rail to the water level all the way around the pool it should be within an inch.

If it is not, that's when the questions arise. Is it safe? Should I drain it ASAP and redo? That's when I say let's take a look at your particular situation and see what would be best. No hard fast rules here, just some good pool sense.

Have a good one, Dennis