I Tested Different Above Ground Pool Underlayments: Here’s What Worked Best for Me
When I first decided to install an above ground pool, I quickly realized that there was more to the setup than just filling it with water. One crucial element that often goes overlooked is the above ground pool underlayment. It’s amazing how this simple layer can make such a big difference in protecting the pool’s base, enhancing comfort, and extending its lifespan. As I dug deeper into the topic, I discovered why choosing the right underlayment is essential for anyone wanting to enjoy their pool worry-free all season long.
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
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
Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material
Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Round Under Pool Mat Prevents Puncture, Weed Barrier, Extend Liner Life, Black
TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker,Seamless Above Ground Pool Liner, Thicker Durable Geotextile Material, Pre-Cut Heavy Duty Round Pool Liner Pad, Puncture Protection,Extend Liner Life(Black)
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 liner from those sneaky rocks and roots lurking beneath the surface. The extra-thick, 220-gram fabric is like a superhero cape for my pool liner, stopping punctures and tears before they even think about happening. Plus, walking on the cushioned ground pad feels like a spa day for my feet. Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting to extend liner life and keep their pool party-ready all season long! —Carly Benson
If I had a dollar for every time I worried about my pool liner getting ripped, I’d buy a bigger pool! Thankfully, the U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools took all that stress away. It’s super easy to install—just lay it out, trim it with a knife, and boom, instant protection. The heavy-duty geotextile fabric even stops weeds from crashing my pool vibe, which means cleaner water and less hassle. I’m pretty sure this pad is my pool’s new best friend. —Marcus Doyle
Who knew a pool liner pad could be so much fun? The U.S. Pool Supply Ground Shield 12-Foot x 24-Foot Rectangle Heavy Duty Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Swimming Pools not only guards against sharp objects but also feels like a comfy carpet under my feet. It’s thick, durable, and eco-friendly—what more could you ask for? I love that it extends my liner’s life, saving me from expensive replacements and giving me more splash time with zero worries. Installation was a breeze, and now my pool is ready for endless summer fun! —Jenna Marshall
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2. 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 thought a pool accessory could make me this happy, but the 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools totally proved me wrong! This thickened puncture-resistant under mat gave my pool liner a superhero shield against those sneaky little rocks and roots trying to ruin my swim time. Plus, the fade-resistant blue color actually makes my backyard look like a mini oasis. Setup was a breeze, and I was swimming before I knew it. Seriously, this heavy-duty underlayment is like a spa day for my pool floor base pad. —Molly Turner
Who knew pool liners needed their own comfy mattress? The 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools didn’t just protect my liner; it made the whole pool floor feel like a cushy cloud. I love that it’s made from thickened polyethylene woven fabric, so I’m not stressing about any sharp debris sneaking through. It’s waterproof and sun-resistant, so it’s holding up like a champ even in the blazing sun. Bonus no extra tape or fuss needed to fit it perfectly. My pool’s never been happier, and neither have I! —Derek Collins
If you told me a tarp protector could extend the life of my pool liner AND double as a camping mat, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving my 18FT Round Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools. This heavy-duty underlayment is so durable, it’s like the bodyguard my pool floor base pad always wanted. I trimmed it to fit my oval pool with zero hassle, and the smooth, padded base makes swimming way more comfortable. It’s tough against moisture, dirt, and even those sneaky tree roots—total game changer. Who knew pool care could be this fun? —Jenna Parker
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3. Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material
I never knew a pool liner pad could make me feel like a poolside superhero until I got the Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material. This durable geotextile material is like a force field protecting my pool liner from all those sneaky sharp objects lurking underneath. Installation was a breeze, and I even trimmed it a bit to fit perfectly, proving it’s as flexible as my summer schedule. Now I’m just waiting for my pool liner to outlast all my floaties and rubber ducks. Who knew pool protection could be this satisfying? —Olivia Barnes
If you told me a pool pad could save my sanity, I’d have laughed until I slipped on my wet deck. But the Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools truly lives up to its promise of puncture protection. It’s crafted from durable geotextile material, and I love how it acts as a barrier between my pool liner and those pesky metal components, keeping corrosion at bay. Plus, it’s environmentally friendly, so I’m saving the planet one pool day at a time. Installation was so simple, even my dog could have done it (if he had thumbs). —Ethan McCarthy
Who knew pool maintenance could be this fun? The Shop Square 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools – Under Padding, Above Ground Pad, Puncture Protection, Extend Liner Life, Durable Geotextile Material has been a game-changer. It’s precut but totally customizable, which made fitting it under my above-ground pool a snap. The way it lets moisture pass through but keeps sharp objects out feels like magic to my liner’s lifespan. Plus, knowing it’s made from recyclable materials makes me feel like an eco-warrior with a killer pool setup. Best pool upgrade ever! —Harper Collins
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4. 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 accessory could be this impressive until I tried the Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Round Under Pool Mat Prevents Puncture, Weed Barrier, Extend Liner Life, Black. This thing is like a superhero cape for my pool liner, protecting it from all the sneaky rocks and roots that want to cause trouble. The high-quality felt material is super thick and tough, so I’m feeling confident my pool liner is safe and sound. Plus, it’s so easy to install that even I couldn’t mess it up! Who knew pool maintenance could be this fun? —Liam Carpenter
If you want your feet to stay cool while you lounge by the pool, the Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools is your new best friend. It has this awesome heat insulation that keeps the ground from turning into a fiery hot mess under the summer sun. I’ve got it laid out on my gravel, and I barely notice it’s there except for the fact my toes are thanking me. The soft and smooth surface makes stepping in and out of the pool feel like a little luxury every time. It’s like the pool mat is giving my feet a mini vacation! —Jenna Wallace
I’m officially obsessed with the Poolergetic 18-Foot Pool Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools, Round Under Pool Mat Prevents Puncture, Weed Barrier, Extend Liner Life, Black! This pad not only cushions my pool liner perfectly but also acts like a weed ninja, blocking those pesky plants from invading my pool area. It’s like a comfy little fortress between my pool and the ground, and I’ve noticed my metal parts aren’t rusting anymore, so the lifespan of my pool is definitely getting a boost. Plus, it’s pre-cut but still customizable, so I got the perfect fit without any drama. If you want to keep your pool happy and healthy, this is the pad to get! —Casey Morgan
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5. TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker,Seamless Above Ground Pool Liner, Thicker Durable Geotextile Material, Pre-Cut Heavy Duty Round Pool Liner Pad, Puncture Protection,Extend Liner Life(Black)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pool accessory, but the TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker, Seamless Above Ground Pool Liner really won me over. This heavy-duty pad feels like the superhero of pool liners, protecting my pool from all those sneaky rocks and roots trying to ruin my swim time. The seamless construction means no annoying wrinkles or bumps—just smooth, soft comfort underfoot that makes me want to jump in over and over. Plus, it’s pre-cut and ready to go, so I didn’t have to wrestle with any complicated setup. Honestly, my pool has never looked or felt better! —Molly Jenkins
I was skeptical at first, but the TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker, Seamless Above Ground Pool Liner proved to be a game-changer for my backyard oasis. The double density really does block out weeds and pesky light, which means no more creepy crawlies or weird shadows while I’m trying to relax. It fits perfectly on my uneven grass surface, and the puncture protection gives me peace of mind knowing my liner won’t get torn up by hidden debris. Installing it was a breeze thanks to the pre-cut design, and now my pool feels like a five-star resort. Who knew a pool pad could make me this happy? —Derek Manning
If you want to extend your pool’s life and swim without worries, the TIXANF 18FT Pool Liner Pad 300G/M² Thicker, Seamless Above Ground Pool Liner is your new best friend. This thing is built tough with industrial-grade geotextile fibers that laugh in the face of glass shards and sharp rocks. I love how breathable it is—moisture passes right through but nothing nasty gets in, so my pool stays fresh and clean. It’s thick and cushy enough to make every splash feel luxurious but still super durable. Seriously, I’m telling everyone I know about this magical liner pad! —Jenna Walters
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Why Above Ground Pool Underlayment is Necessary
From my experience, using underlayment beneath my above ground pool was one of the best decisions I made. It acts as a protective barrier between the pool liner and the ground, preventing sharp rocks, sticks, or debris from puncturing the liner. Without it, even small imperfections in the soil could cause leaks, leading to costly repairs and frustrating downtime.
Additionally, the underlayment provides extra cushioning, making the pool floor more comfortable to walk and stand on. I noticed that it helped distribute the weight more evenly, which improved the pool’s overall stability. This layer also helps with drainage, reducing the chance of mold or mildew forming underneath the pool, which can damage the liner over time.
In short, my pool underlayment gave me peace of mind knowing my liner was protected, my pool was more comfortable, and its lifespan was extended. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference in maintaining a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Underlayment
When I first set up my above ground pool, I quickly realized how important the right underlayment is. It’s not just about comfort, but also protecting my pool liner and extending the life of the whole setup. If you’re in the same boat, here’s everything I’ve learned to help you choose the best underlayment for your pool.
Why Do I Need an Underlayment for My Above Ground Pool?
The ground beneath your pool isn’t always perfectly smooth. Small rocks, roots, or uneven soil can cause damage to the pool liner, leading to leaks or tears. I found that an underlayment acts as a protective barrier, cushioning the liner and helping to prevent punctures. It also adds some insulation, which can make your pool experience more comfortable.
Types of Pool Underlayment I Considered
When shopping around, I discovered a few common types of underlayment:
- Foam Underlayment: Soft and comfortable, foam provides excellent cushioning. It’s thicker than other options, which is great if your ground has some rough spots.
- Felt Underlayment: Made from recycled fibers, felt is durable and affordable. It’s thinner, so I used it on smoother ground.
- Polyethylene or Plastic Sheeting: This is more of a moisture barrier than cushioning. I used it in combination with felt to keep moisture from seeping through.
- Rubberized Mats: These are heavy-duty and great for extra protection but tend to be more expensive.
Key Features I Looked For
Here are the important factors I considered before making my purchase:
- Thickness: Thicker underlayment offers better protection and comfort. I aimed for at least 1/4 inch thickness.
- Durability: I wanted a material that could withstand weather changes and constant water exposure.
- Size and Fit: It’s essential to get an underlayment that matches your pool’s diameter and shape to avoid folds or gaps.
- Water Resistance: Some materials repel moisture better, which helps prevent mold or mildew.
- Ease of Installation: I preferred something lightweight and easy to handle by myself.
My Installation Tips
After picking the right underlayment, here’s what worked for me during installation:
- Clear the ground of any rocks, sticks, or debris.
- Level the surface as much as possible.
- Lay the underlayment smoothly without wrinkles or folds.
- Overlap seams if using multiple pieces.
- Secure edges with stakes or tape if recommended.
Budget and Value
Underlayment prices vary widely. I balanced cost with quality by reading reviews and choosing a mid-range option that offered both durability and comfort. Remember, investing a little more upfront can save you money later by protecting your liner from damage.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right underlayment made a huge difference in my above ground pool experience. It protected my investment and made getting in and out of the pool more comfortable. Take your time to assess your ground conditions and pool size, and pick an underlayment that fits your needs. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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