Installing a new backyard pool is one of the most exciting upgrades a homeowner can make. But when excavation equipment moves out, it often leaves behind a chaotic landscape, such as steep elevation gaps between home entry points, torn-up turf, and destroyed underground watering lines.
An Andover couple faced this exact scenario after installing a new pool. The top edge of their new pool sat 18 inches higher than the surrounding lawn grade, leaving a tricky gap between their upper house deck and lower walk-out basement. To make matters worse, heavy pool excavation machinery had completely severed their original underground sprinkler system.
They ultimately turned to Rock Solid Services to bring order to the chaos, bridge the elevation gaps, and restore their lawn.
Key Takeaways
- THE CHALLENGEConnecting two home entrance levels to a new pool decking system required solving an 18-inch grade difference and repairing torn-up watering lines.
- THE SYSTEMOur crew built a concrete paver pool surround supported by a retaining wall and installed a new irrigation mainline with full zone coverage.
- THE RESULTThe home gained secure pool access from both levels, compliant safety fencing, and balanced water distribution for the new turf.
The homeowners needed direct access to their new pool deck from both the upper house deck and the lower walk-out basement. Here's how we moved forward with developing a multi-level layout that resolved site elevation changes, satisfied local code requirements, and restored full lawn watering capabilities.
Project Summary
| Client Profile: | Andover Homeowners |
| Project Location: | Andover, MN |
| Primary Objective: | Establish structural access between home entry points and a new pool through professional paver pool decking installation. |
| System Installed: | Concrete pavers, targeted retaining wall support, perimeter fencing, and a complete lawn sprinkler installation overhaul. |
| Key Outcome: | Safe multi-tier pool deck access, code-compliant fencing, and 100% turf irrigation coverage across the entire backyard. |
Bridging the Gap: Retaining Walls & Paver Hardscapes
During our initial site evaluation in Andover, the structural challenge was clear. Half of the pool surround called for structural composite decking, while the remaining portion required a durable concrete paver patio extending from the lower walk-out basement.
Because the pool structure sat 18 inches above the surrounding yard, building directly on the existing soil would lead to erosion and uneven pavers. Our hardscape team engineered a structural solution:
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Retaining Wall Stabilization: We constructed a heavy-duty retaining wall along the paver perimeter to elevate the grade by 18 inches, providing a rock-solid foundation that prevents slope settlement.
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Multi-Level Flow: We placed concrete pavers to create a walking surface that seamlessly connects the walk-out basement exit, the elevated paver patio, and the upper deck.
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Code-Compliant Safety: We integrated perimeter safety fencing directly into the design to meet local Andover building codes and keep the pool area secure.
Total Irrigation Overhaul: Bringing the Lawn Back to Life
Pool excavation had left the home's original underground watering lines completely destroyed. Patching the old, broken pipes simply wasn't going to cut it for a pristine new backyard.
"We basically renovated the entire irrigation system in this backyard to navigate our way through the elevation issues." - (Jeff Davis, Rock Solid Services)
Our irrigation specialists designed and installed a brand-new mainline around the entire house perimeter. We strategically configured feeder zones to deliver 100% balanced water coverage for the fresh sod and landscaping without wasting water.
The Result: A Unified Backyard Oasis in 3 Weeks
In just three weeks, Rock Solid Services transformed a torn-up construction zone into a functional, multi-tier outdoor living space. The homeowners gained direct, easy access to their pool from both levels of their house, secure safety fencing, and a smart irrigation system that keeps their new lawn green and thriving.
During our final walkthrough, our team reviewed plant watering schedules and sprinkler controls with the homeowners, ensuring they felt completely confident in operating their new system.
Work With Rock Solid Services, Your Andover Landscaping Experts!
Since 2007, Rock Solid Services has been the solid choice for custom deck builds, paver patios, retaining walls, and smart irrigation throughout Andover and the Twin Cities North Metro. We bring experienced crews, clear communication, and itemized estimates to every project.
Do you need help with a similar landscaping project in Andover? Call our team or request an online estimate today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you handle irrigation repairs during pool installation in Andover?
Heavy excavation often destroys existing sprinkler lines. We run a new main supply pipe around the pool perimeter and reconfigure feeder zones to ensure complete water coverage for all repaired lawn areas.
Why is a retaining wall needed for a pool paver surround?
When pool deck elevations sit above the natural lawn grade, a retaining wall holds the base material firmly in place. This prevents paver shifting, edge collapse, and soil erosion over time.
How long does a pool surround and landscaping project take?
Most pool surround projects require two to three weeks, depending on site grading, paver square footage, retaining wall height, and irrigation repairs.