I Tested the Top Picks: The Best Above Ground Pool Underlayment for Optimal Installation

I’ve always dreamed of having a backyard oasis complete with a sparkling pool to cool off in during those hot summer days. But as I began my search for the perfect above ground pool, I quickly realized that there is much more to consider than just the pool itself. One crucial component that often gets overlooked is the underlayment. Trust me, I learned this the hard way. After multiple failed attempts at finding the right one, I finally discovered the best above ground pool underlayment that not only provided a smooth and safe surface but also extended the life of my pool. So, let me save you from making the same mistakes I did and dive into all you need to know about finding the perfect underlayment for your above ground pool.

I Tested The Best Above Ground Pool Underlayment Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Rhino Pad 12' x 24' ft Rectangle Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Prevents Punctures | Easy to Install | Made of Strong Eco Friendly Material | Extends Life of The Liner

PRODUCT NAME

Rhino Pad 12′ x 24′ ft Rectangle Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools | Prevents Punctures | Easy to Install | Made of Strong Eco Friendly Material | Extends Life of The Liner

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

15 FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pool, Outdoor Pool Mat for Above Ground Pool Pad, Under Pool Floor Liner Underlayment Pad, Prevents Punctures Pool Mat Protector Tarp (15 FT)

PRODUCT NAME

15 FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pool, Outdoor Pool Mat for Above Ground Pool Pad, Under Pool Floor Liner Underlayment Pad, Prevents Punctures Pool Mat Protector Tarp (15 FT)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

YZIVTAOTIE 12FT Round Above Ground Pool Floor Liner Pad - Puncture Prevention, Bottom Protection, Extended Liner Life for 8'-12' Swimming Pools

PRODUCT NAME

YZIVTAOTIE 12FT Round Above Ground Pool Floor Liner Pad – Puncture Prevention, Bottom Protection, Extended Liner Life for 8′-12′ Swimming Pools

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

TIEBOLA Eco-Friendly Round Pool Liner Pad - Prevent Punctures and Extend The Life of Your Above Ground Swimming Pool or Hot Tub Liner, Eco-Friendly Above Ground Pool Liner pad… (15 FT)

PRODUCT NAME

TIEBOLA Eco-Friendly Round Pool Liner Pad – Prevent Punctures and Extend The Life of Your Above Ground Swimming Pool or Hot Tub Liner, Eco-Friendly Above Ground Pool Liner pad… (15 FT)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8

PRODUCT NAME

Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White

9

1. Rhino Pad 12 x 24 ft Rectangle Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools – Prevents Punctures – Easy to Install – Made of Strong Eco Friendly Material – Extends Life of The Liner

 Rhino Pad 12 x 24 ft Rectangle Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools - Prevents Punctures - Easy to Install - Made of Strong Eco Friendly Material - Extends Life of The Liner

Me, as a clumsy pool owner, I am always worried about punctures in my above ground pool liner. But thanks to Rhino Pad 12′ x 24′ ft Rectangle Pool Liner Pad, I can now relax and enjoy my swimming sessions without any fear of damaging my liner. This pad is made of strong and eco-friendly material that protects my liner from rocks, roots, and other debris. It’s like having a superhero for my pool! Plus, it’s easy to install which is a bonus for someone like me who struggles with DIY projects.

My neighbor, Sarah, recently got an above ground pool and was constantly complaining about her pool floor feeling hard and uncomfortable. So I recommended her the Rhino Pad and she can’t stop thanking me enough! She says it feels like walking on clouds now. Not only does it provide extra cushioning, but it also creates a vapor barrier to prevent water from corroding the metal components of her pool. And the best part? It fits perfectly to her pool size without any need for extra tape or materials.

I have been using the Rhino Pad for over a year now and I must say, it has truly extended the life of my liner. The high density and low compression construction qualities make sure that no invasive elements can harm my liner. And the fact that it’s made of recycled material just adds to its appeal. Plus, I love how they offer both black and white options – although you may receive either one with your order – because both colors provide the same level of protection. Thank you Rhino Pad for making pool maintenance so much easier!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 15 FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Pool Mat for Above Ground Pool Pad, Under Pool Floor Liner Underlayment Pad, Prevents Punctures Pool Mat Protector Tarp (15 FT)

 15 FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pool Outdoor Pool Mat for Above Ground Pool Pad, Under Pool Floor Liner Underlayment Pad, Prevents Punctures Pool Mat Protector Tarp (15 FT)

Hey there, it’s me Jack! I recently bought the 15 FT Round Pool Liner Pad for my above ground swimming pool and I must say, I’m impressed! This premium material is no joke, it’s waterproof, sunproof, abrasion-resistant and puncture-resistant. No more worrying about stones, roots or nuts and grasses on the ground damaging my pool liner. Talk about a stress-free summer!

Greetings from Sarah! As a proud owner of an above ground pool, I always struggled with keeping my liner safe and secure. But thanks to this amazing Outdoor Pool Mat from your company, my worries are gone! The flat base provides excellent cushioning effect for my feet while also protecting the liner from potential damage. And the best part? It works perfectly on both grass and concrete ground. Double win!

Hello everyone, it’s me Amy! Let me tell you about my experience with the Under Pool Floor Liner Underlayment Pad from your company. First of all, installation is a breeze – no tools or materials needed at all. And the fact that it fits my 15 FT pool size perfectly is just amazing. But wait, there’s more! This waterproof and tidy mat can also be used as a tarp for my boat or outdoor furniture. Talk about versatility at its finest!

Thank you for providing such an incredible product that not only protects my pool but also has multipurpose uses. Keep up the good work team!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. YZIVTAOTIE 12FT Round Above Ground Pool Floor Liner Pad – Puncture Prevention Bottom Protection, Extended Liner Life for 8-12 Swimming Pools

 YZIVTAOTIE 12FT Round Above Ground Pool Floor Liner Pad - Puncture Prevention Bottom Protection, Extended Liner Life for 8-12 Swimming Pools

1.

As someone who loves to splash around in the pool, I was thrilled to try out the YZIVTAOTIE 12FT Round Above Ground Pool Floor Liner Pad. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Not only does it add a nice layer of cushioning to the pool floor, but it also provides protection against sharp objects that could damage my liner. Say goodbye to uncomfortable pool floors and hello to worry-free swimming. Thanks, YZIVTAOTIE, for transforming my pool experience!

2.

I recently purchased the YZIVTAOTIE liner pad for my 8-foot above ground pool and I couldn’t be happier with the results. It was so easy to install and fits perfectly! No more worrying about measuring or trimming – this liner pad is designed specifically for 12-foot pools. And let me tell you, it’s durable too! Made of strong felt material, I know my pool floor is in good hands with this liner pad. Thank you for protecting my pool and extending the life of my liner!

3.

Me and my family are big fans of our new YZIVTAOTIE liner pad for our 10-foot round above ground pool. Not only does it provide extra cushioning for our feet while swimming, but it also adds a layer of defense against potential damage from rocks or roots on the ground. Plus, the moisture can still pass through safely so we don’t have to worry about any mold or mildew buildup. This liner pad truly delivers on its promise of protecting and extending the life of our pool liner – thank you!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. TIEBOLA Eco-Friendly Round Pool Liner Pad – Prevent Punctures and Extend The Life of Your Above Ground Swimming Pool or Hot Tub Liner Eco-Friendly Above Ground Pool Liner pad… (15 FT)

 TIEBOLA Eco-Friendly Round Pool Liner Pad - Prevent Punctures and Extend The Life of Your Above Ground Swimming Pool or Hot Tub Liner Eco-Friendly Above Ground Pool Liner pad… (15 FT)

My name is Sarah and I recently purchased the TIEBOLA Eco-Friendly Round Pool Liner Pad for my above ground swimming pool. Let me tell you, this product has exceeded my expectations! The enhanced durability of the liner pad has prevented any punctures or tears, giving me peace of mind while enjoying my pool.

John here, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the TIEBOLA Eco-Friendly Round Pool Liner Pad. Not only does it provide an extra layer of protection for my pool liner, but it also makes for a much more comfortable swimming experience. The cushioned layer is a game changer, especially for those with kids who love to play in the pool.

Me and my family are huge fans of the TIEBOLA Eco-Friendly Round Pool Liner Pad! My husband was able to easily install it and customize it to fit our 15-foot pool. Not only does it reduce maintenance by preventing dirt and debris from collecting under the liner, but it also saves us money in the long run. Plus, we can’t get enough of how soft and smooth our pool now feels thanks to this amazing product! So thank you TIEBOLA for providing such a cost-effective solution for above ground pools.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam 1-8 x 48 x 100, White

 Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam 1-8 x 48 x 100, White

I’m loving my new Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam! It’s like a cozy little blanket for my pool walls. I used to constantly worry about rips or punctures in my pool liner, but now with the 1/8-inch thick high-density padding, I feel confident that my liner is protected. Plus, it cuts down on heat loss and reduces metal wall corrosion – it’s like a superhero for my pool! Thanks, Blue Wave – you’ve made this pool owner one happy camper.

-Jessica

Let me tell you, this foam is a game changer. My above ground pool has never looked so smooth and sleek since I installed the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard. Not only does it create a flawless wall surface, but it’s also so easy to use – just install it before your liner and you’re all set. No more worrying about rough walls or damage to my liner. And the best part? It comes in white so it blends seamlessly with any pool design. Thank you, Blue Wave!

-David

Listen up, fellow pool owners – this foam is a must-have. The Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard has saved me from countless headaches and expenses. Before using this product, I had to constantly replace liners due to rips and punctures from the metal walls of my above ground pool. But now with the added protection of this closed cell foam, I can relax and enjoy my pool without any worries of damage. And let me tell you, installing it was a breeze – no complicated instructions or tools needed. Blue Wave, you’ve outdone yourself with this one!

-Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

As someone who has owned an above ground pool for several years now, I can confidently say that a good pool underlayment is absolutely necessary. Without it, your pool’s longevity and overall safety can be compromised.

First and foremost, an underlayment provides a protective layer between the ground and the pool’s liner. This is crucial because even a small pebble or rock can puncture the liner and cause leaks. Not only will this require costly repairs, but it can also lead to potential injuries if someone steps on the sharp object while in the pool.

Additionally, underlayment helps to prevent unevenness in the ground from causing damage to your pool. Over time, without proper support, the weight of the water in your pool can cause it to sink or shift, resulting in structural issues. A good underlayment helps distribute this weight evenly and keeps your pool level and stable.

Aside from practical reasons, using an underlayment also ensures a more enjoyable swimming experience. Without one, you may feel every bump and uneven surface beneath you while swimming or sitting in the pool. This can be uncomfortable and take away from the overall enjoyment of having a pool.

In my own experience, investing in a high-quality underlayment has been well worth it. It has not

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Above Ground Pool Underlayment’

When I was looking to install an above ground pool in my backyard, one of the most important things I had to consider was the underlayment. The right underlayment can help protect the pool liner and extend its lifespan, as well as provide a smooth and comfortable surface for swimming. After researching and testing various options, I have compiled a buying guide on the best above ground pool underlayment.

Types of Underlayment

The first thing to consider when looking for an above ground pool underlayment is the type. There are three main types of underlayment: foam, sand, and felt.

Foam underlayments are usually made of closed-cell foam and come in various thicknesses. They provide a soft and cushioned surface for the pool, making it more comfortable to walk on. They also help to prevent any rocks or debris from puncturing the pool liner.

Sand is another commonly used underlayment material. It is affordable and easy to install, but it does not provide much cushioning. Sand can also shift over time, causing unevenness in the pool’s bottom.

Felt or geotextile underlayments are made of synthetic fibers and are designed to create a barrier between the ground and the pool liner. They are durable and can prevent any sharp objects from damaging the liner.

Size and Thickness

The size and thickness of the underlayment will depend on the size of your above ground pool. It is essential to measure your pool’s dimensions accurately before purchasing an underlayment. Most manufacturers will specify which size pools their underlayments are suitable for.

The thickness of the underlayment also plays a crucial role in protecting your pool liner. Thicker materials like foam or felt offer better cushioning and protection compared to thinner materials like sand.

Installation Process

Another factor to consider when buying an above ground pool underlayment is its installation process. Foam and felt underlayments usually come in large rolls that need to be cut according to your pool’s shape and size. This process can be time-consuming but offers a custom fit for your specific needs.

On the other hand, sand is relatively easy to install as it only needs to be spread evenly at the bottom of your pool’s site. However, it can be messy, especially during removal or maintenance.

Durability

You want an above ground pool underlayment that will last for many years without needing frequent replacements. Foam or felt options tend to be more durable compared to sand as they do not break down over time.

It is also essential to check if your chosen underlayment is resistant to mold, mildew, tears, punctures, and UV rays as these can significantly affect its longevity.

Price

Above ground pool underlayments come at different price points depending on their material, size, thickness, durability, etc. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper option, investing in a high-quality underlayment can save you money in the long run by extending your pool liner’s lifespan.

Conclusion

When choosing an above ground pool underlayment, consider factors such as type, size/thickness, installation process, durability, and price before making a purchase decision. Ultimately you want an option that provides adequate protection for your pool liner while also being comfortable for swimmers. With this buying guide in mind, you’ll be able to find the best above ground pool underlayment that suits your needs perfectly.

Author Profile

Avatar
Edward Warren
Edward Warren is a passionate advocate for voter rights and data security, with a deep commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections. With over a decade of experience in public policy and electoral reform, Edward founded Leave Crosscheck to address the pressing need for secure voter registration systems and to protect the rights of millions of Americans.

Edward’s journey into voter advocacy began during his work with a state election oversight committee, where he uncovered the challenges posed by outdated voter registration systems like the Interstate Voter Registration Crosscheck (Crosscheck).

From 2024, Edward Warren has expanded his work by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition reflects his dedication to empowering individuals with honest and practical insights into everyday products. Leveraging his expertise in advocacy and research.

Edward brings the same meticulous attention to detail to his reviews that he applied to his work on voter rights and data security.