Best Above Ground Pool Pad in 2022 – Reviewed
Although everyone should install their above-ground pool on a flat surface free from sharp objects as much debris as possible, it can be easier said than done. Sometimes the odd stone can be a pain, not only as you walk in the pool but for the lifespan of the liner. A small tear can spell disaster which is why a lot of people look to protect theirs as much as possible.
The easiest method is to use an above ground pool pad. Not only do they make it more comfortable for everyone using it but there is a peace of mind that comes with a padded layer under the floor of the pool. Not all products are as reliable as one might hope them to be, which is why we have created a list of the best above ground pool pads.
Quick Summary of Best Above Ground Pool Pad
Reviews
Editor’s Choice: Liner Life GP18R Pre-Cut Liner Pad for 18′ Round groundcloth, White
- Pre-cut
- Heavy felt material gives plenty of protection
- Stops footprints from emerging in the sand underneath
- Makes the pool more comfortable
Best For Comfort: Horizon Ventures HV/LA-18 Round 1 Piece Underpad Above Ground Pool
- Synthetic polyester felt
- Makes the pool more comfortable to walk on
- Thickness ensures it will last a long time
- Perfect for round or oval pools
Best For Different Sizes: Blue Wave 18-Feet Round Liner Pad for Above Ground Pools
- Plenty of size options
- Cushions the pool
- Durable material
- Stronger than foam
- On the thin side
Best For Smaller Pools: Intex Pool Ground Cloth for 8ft to 15ft Round Above Ground Pools
- Easy to use
- Durable material
- Water-resistant
- Not as padded as other products
Best For Large Pools: Bestway 58102 Ground Cloth, 175-Inch by 100-Inch
Made with big pools in mind, this is an excellent option for anyone who has a permanent above ground pool that covers a lot of ground. Essentially, that is exactly what this product does and the 175 x 100-inch ground cloth helps to make sure that any sharp objects don’t dig in, causing damage to the liner, and hurting anyone’s feet.One of the most durable products on our list, it is strong from corner to corner. Although there could be more padding, this tarp-like material won’t tear, it just won’t give as much comfort under the foot as some of the foam or fabric style pool pads. Still, it is easy to use and install, folds out quickly and will stop stones from causing irreparable damage.
- Strong liner
- Large 175 x 100-inch ground cloth
- Easy to use
- Not as padded as other options
Best Tarp: Summer Waves 15′ Ground Cloth for Above Ground Pools
- Large 15 ft liner
- Tarp quality, good for adding another layer
- Helps to prevent tears
- Not as soft
Above Ground Pool Pad Guide
To protect your pool from the soil underneath, you need a layer that separates the two. This is where a quality above ground pool pad comes in handy. There are usually pretty inexpensive so you won’t have to invest a lot to extend the lifespan of the pool for much longer than it would last without one.
Still, you need to know what makes the quality products so good or you will end up with an ineffective pool pad. To help make this purchase easier, we have created the. following above ground pool pad guide.
What To Look For In An Above Ground Pool Pad?
Durability
The design of the above ground pool pad is vital as some are too flimsy to be effective. With this in mind, you must go for a product made of tough materials to ensure it can last many summers.
The most common materials used are the geotextile variety. This is one of the most durable and resistant to tears. It can withstand impacts against sharp objects so any rocks that find their way underneath are not a problem.
You can also find some good pool pads made out of polyester geotextile. These are another good option although it is slightly more lightweight and not quite as durable.
Because a pool pad is going to come up against a fair amount of pressure, it needs to be able to hold firm and keep everything in place.
Leak Protection
Any leak in the pool can be devastating to its performance. The cheaper the pool, the more susceptible it is to breaking and even dry grass can harm the bottom of the pool. Stones and pebbles and even glass can go unnoticed when you place the pool in your chosen spot in the backyard.
This is where a tough material that is known for its leak protection is important. Usually, the main material used is combined with thicker materials to make them more durable.
Cushioning
Because it can be difficult to lay an above ground pool on a flat surface, there can be all sorts of bumps underneath your foot, even the odd pebble. This is where a pool pad can come in handy.
The cushioning you get can make the pool more comfortable to walk on.
Water Resistance
This might seem obvious, but it is something to look out for in an above ground pool pad. Not all pads give such good resistance which can mean it is less effective at keeping your pool safe and leak-free.
Sometimes referred to as the vapor barrier, a pool pad will stop any water from escaping and impact the iron frame. This will cause rust and degradation over time so you can see why it is so important.
Size
Another important thing to make sure you get right is the size of the pool pad. Some can be customized so you get the exact measurement fo your pool but unlike a pool cover, you can get away with purchasing a product that is too big and cut it to size if necessary.
The box your pool came in should have the measurements or the find the manual so you know exactly what you need before you guess based on the shape of the pool.
Easy To Install
Most pool pads are pretty simple in how you use them but remember to put one down before you put the pool together. Some products are easier to fold out than others and whilst they aren;t heavy, it can be useful to have a second pair of hands around to straighten the pad out.
Heat Loss Prevention
Although this is not as effective as with pool covers, some products can help to maintain the heat in the pool by adding another layer between the pool and the ground. This should be secondary to the amount of protection it provides but it might make the pool more enjoyable when the temperature starts to drop.
Why Do You Need An Above Ground Pool Pad?
Even in ground pools have layers of protection you cannot see but this is arguably more important in an above ground pool. A pool pad provides an added layer of protection between the liner of your pool and the ground.
It keeps the liner safe from sharp objects underneath and provides a layer of comfort under your foot so you’re not treating on the firm ground or any pebbles.
A quality above ground pool pad can ensure that the pool itself lasts longer than it would without one as it is more resistant to tears and punctures.
What Is A Gorilla Pool Pad?
This is a type of pool pad that features a pre-cut material that is often regarded as one of the best types. Because it is made a little different from the foam type layers that are common in a lot of products, it has better resistance to sharp objects.
A lot of people say it is tough enough to withstand just about any sharp object.
Will A Pool Pad Leave Footprints?
Some pool pads are guilty of leaving indents after you have stepped but not all. This is where the foam is not as responsive so it does not relax back into shape.
When you buy a quality product, this is less likely to happen and although it is not a massive hindrance, it is still the sign of a lower quality product.
Can You Use Tarp Under A Pool?
When combined with sand, you can use a tarp under your pool but it does not give you such reliable or strong amount of protection against sharp objects.
Although it is easy to cut to size, and affordable, it is not the best way to protect your pool as there is little tear resistance or comfort compared to a true pool pad.
This is why we recommend making an investment in your pool and spending a little on a quality pool pad.
