Expandable Pool Liner Pad

What kind of pad is best to use for an expandable liner of a above ground pool?


Hi. I don't recommend any type of pool pads for expandable liners. There is nothing on the market that I know of that will lie flat, without bunching up, in a deep area. I have seen people cut and tape until the pad is flat, but this can be very time consuming.

I shape the deep end and water it until it is moist. I then spread mortar sand on it. I smooth the sand once and then water it until very damp. I then finish the smoothing with a combination of a couple of brooms.

Just before I install the liner I dampen the area again. All my liners are stretched into place so footprints are not a problem.

Keep in mind when working with a pool pad that they are very thin. Anything underneath the pad will show through once you have water in the pool. If you use sand under the pad you will create footprints as you install it. These footprints will show up big time once you install the liner.

The only time I recommend pool pads is for a pool being installed on concrete. Or one being installed indoors on tile. In those situations the pool pad work perfect.