My Intex Metal Frame Pool Step By Step Installation!

May 15, 2023

I’ve had a lot of people ask me about my INTEX Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool, and below are pictures of how we installed it step by step.

BUT FIRST, I have to back up a couple of years and show you my mishaps with my 16 X 48 ft. round Summer Waves Pool that I got on sale at Walmart. I  brought it home and put it on a huge concrete slab in my backyard.

I was so proud of myself, and I thought it looked fabulous until I realized that putting a pool on concrete without a pad underneath was my first mishap; second, it wasn’t level.

Needless to say, I looked a little silly with my goggles on trying to repair the holes in the bottom of my pool with Waterproof Flex Tape.

So, here’s take two, and how I saved this pool for use the rest of the summer!

First, I added a pool pad underneath the liner and placed bricks under the pool legs on the side that had a slight slope.  Second, I put an overlap pool liner inside the pool, with snap clamps to hold it in place.  It worked like a charm, and it was float worthy the rest of the season.

The following year I decided to get a larger pool and ended up buying the INTEX Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above-Ground, Swimming Pool. The 18ft x 9ft x 52 in high pool dimensions were a perfect fit, and it also came with a sand filter.   First up:  Make the space level and padded!

I had read about people layering roof shingles to level their pools.  So, we built the shingles up higher on one side and leveled it off with interlocking foam floor tiles.

Next up, we put a pre-cut rectangular pool liner over the shingles.

We hooked up pool hoses, the sand filter, and a saltwater chlorinator.  (Not included)

We are going into our 3rd season with this Intex pool, and have made some upgrades, including a larger sand filter, ladder, and accessories.

I have created a Pool Life List on my Amazon Storefront, and encourage you to see what items are available to create your own backyard oasis.

If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below!  Here’s to a fun summer, and hopefully you will have a splash!

Some of these links are affiliate links.  So, if you decide to buy, I might get a small commission fee.  Thank you for your support!

Top 10 Space Saving Gardening Planters To Try!

Mar 2, 2023

If you live in a cramped apartment or have limited outdoor space, you know the struggle of wanting to cultivate your green thumb. But just because you don’t have a sprawling backyard doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful garden. All you need are the right tools, and that’s where planters come in.

**As an Amazon Influencer I earn from qualifying purchases.  Thank you!!

Planters are an excellent way to grow plants in a small space. They allow you to control the soil, the water, and the amount of sunlight your plants get. Plus, they add a touch of style to any room or outdoor area. So, here are the top ten small space gardening planters to try.

Hanging Basket Planter

A hanging planter is designed to hang from a support, such as a hook or a bracket. It’s a great way to grow herbs, strawberries, peppers, and cherry tomatoes to name a few.

 Vertical Stacking Planter     

If you’re short on floor space, consider a vertical stacking planter. These are perfect for growing strawberries, tomatoes, peppers, herbs, greens, beans, and more.  Plus, it will elevate your greenery outdoor decor.

Tiered Planter

This 6 ft. tiered planter would look fabulous on a balcony or patio.  I would alternate each tier with beautiful flowers and herbs.  

Grow  Bags

Grow bags are an alternative to traditional pots and containers and have become increasingly popular among gardeners.                          I love the different sizes you can choose from, you can move them easily, and fold them up at the end of the season.   

Raised Garden Bed                       

If you have a small outdoor space, a raised garden bed planter is a great option. It allows you to grow various vegetables without taking up too much space.  I have a metal frame one, and it’s held up really well.

Hanging Wall Planter


This type of hanging wall planter comes in a variety of sizes, and it’s perfect for small herbs or succulents. 

Hanging Bucket Planter

This type of bucket planter is a great choice for windows, balconies, walls, fences, railings, and porches.  They have pre-drilled holes for draining, and you simply add some potting soil and plant your favorite herbs or flowers.

Planter Box With Trellis

This planter box is a great option for any climbing plant that seems some support.

15 Pods Hydroponics Growing System

This Hydroponics growing system has a timed, height-adjustable LED grow light system.  It also has a circulating water pump system that beeps when you need to add more water.  Pretty smart huh?

4 Tier Mini Greenhouse With Castor Wheels

This mini greenhouse on wheels can go inside or out.  It will help you start your plants earlier in the season, and continue to grow crops into fall & winter.

So, there you have it, the top ten small space gardening planters to try. Whether you have a small balcony or a tiny patio, these planters will help you cultivate your green thumb and add some life to your space.  And remember, even though your space may be small, your gardening possibilities are endless!