Pool backfilling & filling in old pools in Corfu

Two jobs, both done in layers

Backfilling a new pool means filling the gap between the finished shell and the sides of the pit. Done badly, it leaves voids that settle, cracks the paving and pushes on the shell. Done well, it uses the right material, placed and compacted in layers, and follows the pool builder's instructions, often with water in the pool to balance the pressure.

We use the mini excavator to place and level the material and compact it as we go, with the tractor and trailer bringing gravel or fill where lorries cannot reach. Clean granular material such as crushed stone or gravel drains and stays firm, so we prefer it near the shell, see gravel and soil spreading.

Filling in an old pool is a different job. We break holes in the pool floor so water can drain (otherwise the pool acts like a bathtub in the ground), break down the top edges, and fill in layers with clean, inert material, compacting as we go, then finish with topsoil. It is the safe way to recover the space for a garden or building, and it has to be done properly so the ground does not sink later.

What's included

• Backfilling around new pool shells with the specified material
• Placing and compacting in layers to avoid voids and settlement
• Filling of pipe trenches and equipment pits
• Filling in of old pools: drainage holes, edges removed, layered fill
• Fill and gravel delivered to places lorries cannot reach
• Final levelling and topsoil for gardens, or a base for paving

How the job works

1. Builder's instructions

   For a new pool we follow your pool builder's instructions on the material and the order of works, including the water level.

2. Place in layers

   We place the backfill in layers, compacting each one and keeping levels even all around.

3. Old pool preparation

   For an old pool we make drainage holes in the floor and break down the top edges before filling.

4. Finish

   We finish level for paving or garden, spreading topsoil where you want to plant.