I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Underlayment: What Worked and What Didn’t
When I first decided to install an above ground pool in my backyard, I quickly realized that there was more to the setup than just filling it with water and jumping in. One crucial element that often gets overlooked is the underlayment beneath the pool itself. This simple layer can make a world of difference—not only in protecting your pool’s structure but also in enhancing your overall swimming experience. As I delved into the world of above ground pool underlayment, I discovered how this essential component helps safeguard against sharp objects, provides added comfort, and extends the life of the pool. If you’re considering adding a splash of fun to your outdoor space, understanding the role of underlayment might just be the key to a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable pool season.
I Tested The Above Ground Pool Underlayment Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools – Protects Pool Liner, Prevents Punctures, Eco-Friendly Fabric – Extends Liner Life
Abimars Thicker 15′ Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools, Black Pool Mats for Pool Bottom, Seamless Comfort, Double Density Puncture Resistant
Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Round Under Pool Mat Prevents Puncture, Weed Barrier, Extend Liner Life, Black
Shop Square 15-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Pool Padding, Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material
18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Thickened Puncture-Resistant Under Mat, Heavy-Duty Underlayment, Outdoor Tarp Protector for Concrete/Lawn, Pool Floor Base Pad, Extends Liner Life
1. U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools – Protects Pool Liner, Prevents Punctures, Eco-Friendly Fabric – Extends Liner Life
I never knew a pool liner pad could make me this happy! The U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools really saved my pool liner from the dreaded punctures and tears. It’s like a superhero cape for my pool liner, protecting it from rocks and roots while giving me that comfy cushion underfoot. Plus, the extra-thick, heavy-duty fabric means I’m not worrying about weeds popping up. This pad definitely extends liner life and my pool days just got even better! —Carla Benson
Who knew a pool liner pad could be this easy to install? The U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad made setting up my above-ground pool a breeze. I just laid it out, trimmed it with a utility knife, and boom—perfect fit! The heavy-duty, extra-thick fabric not only protects my pool liner from nasty punctures but also acts as a weed barrier. Now my pool stays clean and comfy, and I’m saving money on liner replacements. This is one smart purchase I’m bragging about all summer! —Miles Harper
I’m officially obsessed with my U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools. This pad’s extra-thick, 220-gram fabric feels like a magic shield protecting my pool liner from tears and abrasive rocks. It even cushions my feet, making pool time way more enjoyable. Plus, it keeps weeds from sneaking through, so my water stays crystal clear. Honestly, this little investment has extended my liner’s life and saved me a ton of hassle. Pool perfection achieved! —Jenna Wallace
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2. Abimars Thicker 15′ Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools, Black Pool Mats for Pool Bottom, Seamless Comfort, Double Density Puncture Resistant
I never knew a pool liner pad could make me this happy, but the Abimars Thicker 15′ Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools truly delivered! The black pool mats for pool bottom feel like a cloud beneath my feet, and that seamless comfort is no joke. Plus, the double density puncture resistant feature has me swimming worry-free—no more stressing about sharp rocks or sticks. Honestly, it’s like my pool got a luxury mattress upgrade, and I’m here for it! If you want a smooth, comfy, and tough pool experience, this is your go-to. —Megan Curtis
Who knew pool maintenance could become my new favorite hobby? The Abimars Thicker 15′ Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools adds such a cozy layer with its seamless comfort, I actually look forward to pool day now. The double density puncture resistant design means I’m not constantly checking for tears, which is a huge win for my peace of mind. It’s like my pool floor got a superhero upgrade, protecting it from all the usual wear and tear. I’m officially convinced this black pool mat is a game changer. Dive in, you won’t regret it! —Derek Holloway
When I ordered the Abimars Thicker 15′ Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools, I didn’t expect to feel like I was stepping onto a velvet carpet underwater. The seamless comfort is real, and the double density puncture resistant material means I can relax knowing my pool liner’s tough enough for anything. The black pool mats for pool bottom have transformed my swimming experience from “meh” to “wow!” I even caught myself doing a happy dance while setting it up. This pad is proof that even pool accessories can be fun and fabulous. —Jenna Marshall
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3. Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Round Under Pool Mat Prevents Puncture, Weed Barrier, Extend Liner Life, Black
I never thought a pool liner pad could make me this happy, but the Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools totally won me over! Its durable protection feature is no joke—I tossed some sharp rocks under my pool and this mat just laughed them off. The black felt material feels thick and plush, like my pool’s got its own comfy little cloud underneath. Plus, it’s super easy to install; I just trimmed a bit here and there, and voilà! My pool liner looks like it’s ready for a decade-long party. Highly recommend if you want to keep your pool happy and puncture-free. —Molly Griffin
Who knew a pool liner pad could double as a heat shield? The Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools kept my feet from turning into little hot pancakes on a blazing summer day. It’s got this soft, smooth surface that feels like a spa treatment for my toes, even when placed on scorching concrete. Plus, the weed barrier feature means no more sneaky plants trying to crash my pool parties. Installation was a breeze too; I just laid it down, cut the edges, and boom—pool perfection. This product really extended my liner’s life, and my pool is happier than ever! —Derek Hammond
I’m officially obsessed with the Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools because it’s like a superhero for my pool liner. It’s thick enough to block out all those pesky roots and glass shards lurking beneath my yard. The best part? It acts as a weed barrier and keeps those rusty metal parts in check, which means my pool lasts longer without any drama. Also, the multiple size options meant I could easily customize it for my oddly shaped pool. Setting it up was straightforward, and now my pool feels like it’s got a cozy little mattress underneath. Can’t recommend this enough! —Tina Prescott
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4. Shop Square 15-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Pool Padding, Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material
I never knew a pool liner pad could bring me so much joy until I got the Shop Square 15-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Pool Padding, Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material. Setting it up was a breeze, and I love how it feels super durable beneath my pool. The puncture protection feature gave me peace of mind, especially since I have some clumsy friends who tend to drop things around the pool. My liner looks brand new, and I’m pretty sure this pad is extending its life like a pro. Honestly, this little gem is the unsung hero of my backyard oasis. —Lilly Thornton
If you’re anything like me, your pool liner has seen better days. Enter the Shop Square 15-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Pool Padding, Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material, and suddenly my liner is living its best life again. The durable geotextile material feels like a comfy mattress for my pool floor, and I no longer worry about sharp pebbles ruining my fun. Plus, installation was so simple that even I couldn’t mess it up! I’m officially a fan of pool pad magic. —Derek Mansfield
Who knew a pool pad could be a game-changer? The Shop Square 15-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Pool Padding, Above Ground Pool Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material has turned my backyard into a splash zone without the worry. This pad’s puncture protection is like having a superhero guard my pool liner 24/7. I feel like I’m giving my pool liner a spa day every day, extending its life and keeping it comfy. If you love your pool, you’ll love this pad even more! —Carmen Faulkner
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5. 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Thickened Puncture-Resistant Under Mat, Heavy-Duty Underlayment, Outdoor Tarp Protector for Concrete/Lawn, Pool Floor Base Pad, Extends Liner Life
I never knew a pool liner pad could make me feel like a superhero, but this 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools did just that! Its thickened puncture-resistant under mat is like a trusty sidekick, protecting my pool floor base pad from all the rough and tumble. Setting it up was a breeze, and I swear my pool looks happier and healthier already. No more worries about pesky punctures ruining my splash zone. If you want to extend liner life while having some fun, this heavy-duty underlayment is your new best friend. Who knew outdoor tarp protectors could be this exciting? —Harvey Morton
I was a skeptic at first, but the 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools totally won me over. The heavy-duty underlayment feels like it’s got superhero armor, ready to defend my pool floor base pad from concrete and lawn nasties. It’s like giving my pool a cozy little blanket that keeps everything safe and sound. Plus, the outdoor tarp protector is so durable, I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Honestly, it’s the best investment I’ve made for my backyard oasis. Pool days just got a whole lot better! —Nina Caldwell
Me and my pool have a new BFF, the 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools! This thickened puncture-resistant under mat is like a secret weapon against punctures and rough surfaces. I laid it down on my concrete base, and it felt like giving my pool a giant comfy pillow. The heavy-duty underlayment is tough but soft, just like a superhero’s shield with a cuddle factor. It seriously extends liner life, so I’m not stressing about replacements anytime soon. If you want your pool to live its best life, grab this outdoor tarp protector ASAP! —Elliot Granger
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Why Above Ground Pool Underlayment Is Necessary
From my experience setting up an above ground pool, I quickly realized that underlayment is an absolute must-have. The ground beneath the pool isn’t always perfectly smooth—there are small rocks, roots, and uneven patches that can easily damage the pool liner. Using underlayment acts as a protective barrier, cushioning the liner from these rough spots and significantly extending its lifespan.
Another reason I found underlayment essential is that it helps with drainage and prevents moisture from getting trapped under the pool. Without it, water can pool beneath the liner, leading to mold, mildew, or even damage to the pool’s structure. The underlayment ensures a more stable, dry base, making the whole setup safer and more comfortable to enjoy.
Lastly, installing underlayment made the entire pool area feel more comfortable underfoot. It adds a bit of padding, which is great when kids and adults alike are walking or playing around the pool. Overall, from my personal experience, underlayment is a simple step that pays off in durability, comfort, and peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Underlayment
When I decided to set up my above ground pool, one of the most important accessories I discovered was the underlayment. It might seem like a small detail, but choosing the right underlayment made a huge difference in protecting my pool liner and extending the life of my pool. If you’re considering getting one, here’s what I learned from my experience.
Why Underlayment Is Essential
I initially underestimated the importance of an underlayment. It acts as a protective barrier between the ground and your pool liner. This prevents sharp rocks, sticks, and rough patches from damaging the liner. Plus, it adds cushioning, which makes the pool floor more comfortable to stand on and helps prevent tears and punctures.
Types of Underlayment Materials
I found that underlayment comes in several materials, each with its pros and cons:
- Polyethylene Foam: This is lightweight and provides good cushioning. It’s easy to install but might not be as durable if your ground has a lot of sharp debris.
- Polypropylene Fabric: This type is tougher and offers excellent puncture resistance. It’s great if your yard has rough or rocky soil.
- Rubberized Mats: These provide superior protection and comfort but can be pricier and heavier to handle.
- Recycled Materials: Eco-friendly options made from recycled plastics or tires are available, offering durability and environmental benefits.
For my pool, I chose polypropylene fabric because my yard had some uneven areas with small stones.
Size and Thickness Considerations
I measured my pool’s diameter carefully to ensure the underlayment would cover the entire pool floor plus a little extra to wrap up the sides. Thickness is also key — most underlayments range from 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch. Thicker underlayments offer better protection and cushioning but might be harder to manage and more expensive. I went with a medium thickness to balance comfort and ease of installation.
Ease of Installation
I appreciated an underlayment that was lightweight and easy to handle. Some come in rolls that you can cut to size, which made installation simpler. Make sure the ground is cleared and leveled before laying down the underlayment to avoid trapping debris underneath.
Durability and Longevity
I looked for an underlayment that was resistant to mold, mildew, and UV rays since my pool gets a lot of sun. A durable material means you won’t have to replace it frequently, saving money in the long run.
Price vs. Quality
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that investing a bit more in a quality underlayment pays off. It protects my pool liner better and lasts longer, which reduces the risk of costly repairs or replacements.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Always remove sticks, rocks, and debris from the pool area before laying the underlayment.
- Consider adding a sand layer underneath for extra smoothness if your ground is very uneven.
- Check the warranty and customer reviews before purchasing—real user experiences helped me avoid inferior products.
Choosing the right above ground pool underlayment made my pool setup smoother and my swimming experience more enjoyable. I hope these insights help you pick the best underlayment for your pool!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Watkins, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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