Plastic Under Pool Liner

by Paul
(Monmouth NJ)

I'm having a pool installer come to put up a new 18x33 above ground pool. It is replacing an 18x24 that was removed. Sand roots are now in the area . I live in central NJ.

What is the best bottom for new pool. Sand only, plastic under sand, or vermiculite and sand?



Hi Paul. I prefer sand only on my installs. I feel I can get a smoother bottom using sand than I could with vermiculite. I prefer not to use plastic as I feel if your pool ever leaks the water needs to be able to soak into the ground. Otherwise it sits between the liner and the plastic and grows algae and mold.

I do use plastic when I feel the surrounding vegetation warrants it. Nearby plants and trees will shoot roots towards a pool area very quickly and the plastic can keep them down and out of site longer than without the plastic.

I would consult with your installers and see what they prefer and why. Everyone has a preference, just check out the reasons behind it.

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