I intended to follow this video, then I found a more economical option that worked well for me. I still utilized what you video showed me. Thank you for your effort to share with us. I just put up my small pool over Memorial Day weekend 2024. For about $65 Lowe’s had a 4’x50’ length of 1/4” insulation foam. It was folded into 2’x4’x1.5’ product on the shelf, which made it easier to transport. I prepped the ground moderately well, then I put down a 1/4” layer, with another 1/4 layer with perpendicular seems over the top. I used shipping tape because in the past duct tape was thick enough that dirt deposits formed on the liner above duct tape seems. I also ran a length of tape across the folded seems (every 2’) on the top layer to try and consolidate 6 tiny creases into a slight depression. The 1/4 foam was easy to trim once the pool was full. It isn't squishy, but I don't feel any rocks or even seems when I am in the pool. I didn't put down a tarp. My priority was eliminating seems and I am willing to pay $65 a summer to not have to spend 90% of my pool cleaning effort on tarp & tape seems that collect sediment like the ridges on a gold pan. Kingspan Insulation R-1, 0.25-in x 4-ft x 50-ft GreenGuard Faced Polystyrene Board Model #100000050460
This is an amazing idea ! I have been tossing and turning deciding what to put under my Intex once it arrives, No I have found it ! Thank you , this must work fantastic and feel great under foot ! Can't wait to do this !! Thanks ! Looks awesome !
just put out pool up today I did ground cloth , foam 3/4 inch then another tarp over the foam then pool Thanks again, seems this is going to work out !
I did this last year. The guy at home depot suggested i use the foam board. We Leveled the sand put the foam board on top. I hate I didn't tape it down. So now that im about to change the liner. I'll be sure to tape it this time.
I have a 14 foot round by 42in tall pool and used solid top plastic pallets. 40x48x8 dug down 4 inches and leveled the ground. Installed a weed barrier and Bolted the plastic pallets together with all thread in a 5x5 square. Drilled holes in the pallets and drove rebar through holes into the ground hold foundation in place. Foundation was (200in x 240in) Most local companies have many pallets and give them away for free, just to get rid of them. I also made steps. Stays level and makes a great foundation with no chance of anything cutting the bottom of the liner. $38 all in. Will be posting a video very soon. Just sharing what worked great for me since you’re swapping out your liner.
I did this a few years ago. It helps with the water temp and protection, but it feels amazing on the feet. Plus if you do spring a leak you don't get sand washout.
Did the foam insulation get crushed down under the weight of the pool? I’ve had a Intex pool for years, the 22’ one. It finally had it and I found this best way one really good price. It’s 2’ smaller. Well it just finished filling and it’s off on one side by 3”. I’m thinking the old one that was leaking softened up the ground and this is why. Was thinking about putting foam sheets under the half of the pool that is lower to raise it up. Was wondering if it will get crushed back down with the weight of pool and be uneven again?!
@@therealbeedubbs35 Surprisingly no. I used the blue foam insulation, 1" and no crush. When I take the pool down in the fall you can see the pock marks from the pea gravel but just small indentations.
@@quiptown8976 awesome thanks for replying. I was waiting to c. Ticks me off I have the pool so perfectly flat but one side is 3” lower. Gonna have to drain it. But thinking about buying the 2” for the low side and maybe get the .5” for the rest just so it’s all smooth on bottom. I’ll throw some more sand under it first to bring it up a tad on the low side!
@@therealbeedubbs35 As long as your base sand is contained it's not a problem. I actually didn't dig down, I made a raised box from 2x4s and filled it with pea gravel, leveled and put the foam board on top.
I used a bunch of moving blankets about 2 layers deep but the pool stood on concrete it made the ground softer than just a tarp. It rotted away at the exposed sections but the unexposed sides were dry but still soft. Had a bunch of those blankets laying around from when we moved.
This was a great idea. Allows me to use river rocks under the Rigid Foam to level , then in the winter the rocked area will be our fire-pit area. This was our first pool and didn't want to spend too much time digging into grass, then rocks to level. Now to build a 5-gallon bucket sand filter and a solar water heater
I was so excited to try this I went to Home Depot 2 days ago when I first saw this video and it's not really ideal being that the only phone board that I seen were like $20 a piece and they weren't much cheaper online
@@MrMedinaj I'm on my third year of using foam insulation. I taped my joints using duct tape. Zero weeds grow through. I also used a pea gravel sub base instead of sand but I don't think that makes a difference in the end result.
We used interlocking foam pads taped together, our neighbors love our pool. I would imagine the foam may break/crack over time. Our interlocking foam has lasted three years and no degradation. It also fold up into a pie piece during the winter.
Did the foam insulation get crushed down under the weight of the pool? I’ve had a Intex pool for years, the 22’ one. It finally had it and I found this best way one really good price. It’s 2’ smaller. Well it just finished filling and it’s off on one side by 3”. I’m thinking the old one that was leaking softened up the ground and this is why. Was thinking about putting foam sheets under the half of the pool that is lower to raise it up. Was wondering if it will get crushed back down with the weight of pool and be uneven again?!?
I wonder if I can pick your brain? I'm preparing for a 15' x 48" intex pool. I've already dug down in put pavers in and I'm leveling them to each other and the center of the area. I'm gonna fill in the area with sand to make everything even with the pavers. I've got lawn edging tracked down to prevent sand washout in addition to it being dug down. Then I'm gonna put 1in foam board on top of all of and tape it down with that packing tape that's got the strings on it. I have no intention of taking this down for the winter. My question is can I put the pool on top of the foam over the pavers ice already put down? They're 12" x 12." Or do I need to put 7" x 4" pavers on top of the foam over the pavers underneath the legs?
Foam compresses under highly focused loads, like the foot of a support post. It would be best to spread that load out with a 2x6 block of wood or a paver.
@rowerwet My question as well I'm going to try and follow what you did. I may get a different brand insalation foam Due to the price because I'm on a budget and we upgraded to an 18 by 48. And I do not plan on taking it down I live in ohio. Do you take yours down ? Also I'm doing this by myself with my nephew 16. Where do I put the paper stones? How to get them level? I'm kind of using the 2 by 4 method going around in the circle. But at this point i'm kind of just winging it also
Pool arrives in 5 days. Even though winter is right around the corner. ( August 15th) I really hope thos works. I am very excited.! And scared at the same time.
What size pool? We have a 16x48 I think lol we are doing this next month to ours. Our yard is very sloped so we had to dig out one side quite a bit and it handled the slope rather well. Only off about 2 inches after it settled and then when all the rain came and storm it shifted some. We are also using block to hold our rock in place.
Hi I just had to replace my pool liner and I'm thinking of using foam as a base for it next year (to late in the year to do it now) I like what you have done. Do you have a follow-up video showing what it looks like full of water?
This is an excellent idea.bi actually had the same exact idea and found your video searching if anyone else did this. This foam does not absorb water and will feel nice on the feet. I have finally leveled the ground for my 18ft pool. I didn't want to haul all that sand to the backyard. I am probably going to go pickup these boards tonight.
@@promisedlanders It turned out great. I purchased I think 13 sheets at 14.00 each. I duct taped them really well together. It's very soft. I used 1/2 inch. My neighbor put their pool directly on dirt. Something has punctured the bottom and there are hard spots in random places. They are doing this same idea.
The manufacturer specifically said not to use sand underneath because it is dangerous if the pool springs a leak. The sand will wash away and make the hole larger, potentially sucking a swimmer under the water against the hole
lay out all your foam and tape it together but don't cut anything yet. you can then put together just the top ring/pipes of the pool and lay it on top of foam and mark out where your legs will be and cut accordingly to whatever board or paver stone you will use for your leg supports and it sits flush with foam
@@rowerwet Awesome! Thanks for the update and response. So cool to see peoples ideas and be able to track them over time to see if they held up. I am about to buy my first pool and was wondering about cheap and efficient ways to underlay, seems like you are on to something great!
It's doing fine, I make sure there are plenty of bricks holding it down while the pool is stored for the winter. I expect a third season will be no different
Thank you for the video. We have to place our pool on bricks. I this this idea is great but over time does the foam give in from being under the pool? We usually use carpet but I saw your video and think it will work?
This foam is used under and around house foundations, it doesn't break down much at all. I actually build kayaks out of it, and expect them to outlast me
So I'm planning on putting up a 12ft pool I caught this video my question is I do not plan on digging up grass just raking over the area as good as possible should I put tarp down then foam boards are opposite? Also since I'm not digging up the grass should I use sand as a base along with foam boards and of course tarp any help is appreciated
Did you make those curved cuts with that utility knife? I ruined a few pieces just jagged cutting it with a box cutter when I couldn't get it in the car from lowes. Then it didn't fit flush
I'm definitely going to do this when I set my pool up for 1st time in another month. Best idea I've seen yet! Can you tell my what thickness you used? I have an 18' round, thinking maybe 12 sheets if I've figured correctly 🤔
I bought a 15ft x 48inch swimming pool from Amazon but I need foam boards just like u to set my pool on, so how many do I need to get for my pool. Mine looks the same is yours.
15 foot circle covers 177 square feet. The 4x8 sheets are 32 square feet. You will need at least 6 sheets. Maybe buy one or two extras if u make mistakes.
Just pulled sod out. I actually dug it 4-6" deeper in the middle and tried to level the outer edge all the way around, it's still 3 inches lower on one side
Yes it comes in 4x8 sheets. Nothing grew underneath the foam, so it might work against weeds. I think this helped the pool warm up and stay warm a little faster
The pink is Owen's Corning and is sold at home depot. Blue green foam is Kingspan and is sold at Lowe's. Either one works just as well, the trade designation is XPS foam.
@@rowerwet thanks what was thickness in cm or mm im looking at this instead of sand thinking this is better idea seem sand is cheaper but i heard people say they had so much issues with sand washing away
How did this work out for the entire season? We live in AZ, LOTS of rocks in the ground. We will definitely level, remove rocks, and tamp the ground but we want some insurance against possible liner punctures when we setup this season.
So I have done this same thing for my first pool. What I would change and what I did wrong is don't have foam under the leg areas. I did put wood down on top of the foam but it broke thru the wood and the foam on the legs. So I would change it and just have the foam under the liner only. Also I added to much water before I could get all the wrinkles out of the bottom pool liner... So I would make sure to have the liner ground flat first before adding any water. Not much I can change about these issues now.
Thanks for this great video. Question, does the foam also make it more comfortable for the people in the pool in terms of providing a softer ground rather than just the dirt. Thanks again.
Not really sure, thanks to buoyancy you have less impact and weight in the pool. The water is still heavy though, so the foam doesn't have any real give to it
How many boards did you use for 18ft pool. I only have 15ft and trying to figure out how many foam boards I need to buy from Home Depot. And was 1/2” or 3/4” because this video says 3/4 thickness and the “year after video” Says 1/2”. Thank you
Do the math to find square footage. Each 4x8 sheet of foam is 32sqft. Get a couple extra sheets because you may have waste if there is rounded corner and such that you just can't use the whole sheet.
I ordered a cover that went under the pool, people save your money if you look at something like that, it said it was for pools, When I got it. it was no thicker than a bed sheet
I know this question was asked nearly a year ago but maybe the info will help someone else. Most installers I know of use a weed killer called a ground clear. It kills almost anything that can grow. Put that down and a lot of granular ant killer down to keep carpenter ants from putting hols in the liner.
I think I like this idea. What did that amount of foam cost you about? I'm about to do my pool foundation but thinking if I put down 2 inches of sand, I won't have to worry about rocks. At least I hope?
Pool makers say not to use sand since it quickly washes away if a leak develops, possibly causing a drowning risk. I believe I mentioned the cost in the video, I'll have to go back and check since I don't remember
@@rowerwet thanks. I just calculated the cost of putting down foam boards from H.D. for my pool size. It varies from $75 to $200 depending the board's maker/thickness/r value. I had heard some makers say not to use sand but I had never heard the reason why. That's interesting and good to know.
@@johns9990 the wash away happened to me sisters family last spring. They have a bigger above ground pool, and it's probably a decade old now. They noticed water running out, so my brother in law got a repair section of pool liner and went diving to find the leak. But as he was feeling for the hole it was carving away the sand and soil from under the edge. He felt the liner blow out and swam free of the rushing water. It left a good sized hole in the ground and they couldn't get a liner all summer because they were all sold out because of covid.
I'm putting in a 12'x30" pool for my granddaughter. This will work out well. Couple questions: 1) If I use a good quality tape for the joints do you think I still need a tarp? 2) I have read if you level the ground and use the same foam thickness as the stones/bricks to support the pool uprights it makes assembly easy (no digging for the stones). But don't you think 1" or 1-1/2" foam may be too thick? Thanks - Mike
Half of mine is on 3/4" and half is on 1", just because that's what I could get at the moment. Any thickness is good, but as you mentioned, thicker requires more support to get the poles high enough. A good tape will remove the need for a tarp, I just wasn't sure at the time and decided to play it safe
@@rowerwet Thanks for providing this video - was going to use 2" or 1-1/2" but went with Foamular 250 in 3/4". My big-box had it with tongue-groove design. Got it all set up and found a pinhole leak in the side wall that I repaired but now there seems to be a leak in the bottom somewhere - I'm guessing the bottom. Will call Intex but how do you find a bottom leak?
@@rowerwet I got lucky. The leak stopped. Strange - the drain plug had a slow drip-drip leak. Could it have taken 2-1/2 days to purge this water? That’s what seems happened.
It gave me a worry free season, and has survived the winter covered in ice and snow so far. It will be another month before the pool could go up in new England.
@@rowerwet Thanks for getting back to me, I appreciate it. I thought of doing this.. but hadn't found anyone who did it. My lawn is terrible.. lumpy, uneven, bits of all kinds of glass, plastic, metal etc. I'm going to level/grade as best I can then put the insulation down to protect it from anything I didn't find and remove. Kelly
My father had a pool installed and they used inexpensive crushed foam carpet padding under the liner. It was used for cushion and protection from small rocks, but not used for insulation since if it becomes wet it would loose any insulating properties. Their pool was always soft under the feet.
My opinion based on my waterproofing contractor from two years ago. The foam will be water logged after rain and ground water absorb into over the years. My contractor said he doesn’t use this type foam boards against cement block walls for this reason. I would think being under the pool you risk depression spots in pool floor in the long run. But hope it works out for all your efforts
I put out another video showing the foam a year later. It's just as dry and solid as it was last summer. This winter I left it out under the ice and snow, drove over it with my truck a few times, with no issues. It is not waterlogged, since this is closed cell foam, it's not able to absorb much if any water.
I did this to my pool five years ago and never had a issue with water logging it heald up great. However after five years the product needs to be replaced because of thinning and the roots under it (weeds) grew up into it
I just did my 18' round Intex with foam board. It took (9) 4'x8' boards. 😉 hope this helps! I also used 1 1/2" .. overkill I suppose but area was a bit lumpy to start with.
@@michellehaywood8971 3/4 foam worked fine, but I ended up emptying my pool because I have mixed soil, some sections regular black dirt and others with mostly clay. What started off 1/2 offlevel became 2" quickly after a little rain...:( I'm so bummed out.
@@rowerwet Did you make an 18' circle, or did you go wider? I have an 18' and I just cut almost 20'. I am thinking I should cut it down some before placing. Thanks!
To find the area use 3.14 x radius x radius. For a 15ft round you need about 176sqft. A 4ftx8ft sheet is 32 sq ft so you'll need 6 sheets. Cutting and fitting isn't 100% efficient and you'll have some unusable pieces so get 7 and you'll have enough:)
I made a second video showing what the foam looks like after one season of use, and a foot or more of snow on it this winter. other than new tape on the seams it is ready to go for another season
How many foam boards did you have to buy to fit the 18ft radius? 18ft has a 256 square feet roughly i guess, so 4x8 = 32 sq ft per board. 256 / 32 = 8 plus waste etc... im gonna guess you used 13 or so boards? Is that correct? Thanks! I am planning on doing this in a few weeks for my coleman 18x48 pool.
What a great idea. Thanks so much! My pool is coming in a few days and I’ve been obsessing over this.
I intended to follow this video, then I found a more economical option that worked well for me. I still utilized what you video showed me. Thank you for your effort to share with us.
I just put up my small pool over Memorial Day weekend 2024. For about $65 Lowe’s had a 4’x50’ length of 1/4” insulation foam. It was folded into 2’x4’x1.5’ product on the shelf, which made it easier to transport. I prepped the ground moderately well, then I put down a 1/4” layer, with another 1/4 layer with perpendicular seems over the top. I used shipping tape because in the past duct tape was thick enough that dirt deposits formed on the liner above duct tape seems. I also ran a length of tape across the folded seems (every 2’) on the top layer to try and consolidate 6 tiny creases into a slight depression. The 1/4 foam was easy to trim once the pool was full. It isn't squishy, but I don't feel any rocks or even seems when I am in the pool. I didn't put down a tarp. My priority was eliminating seems and I am willing to pay $65 a summer to not have to spend 90% of my pool cleaning effort on tarp & tape seems that collect sediment like the ridges on a gold pan.
Kingspan Insulation R-1, 0.25-in x 4-ft x 50-ft GreenGuard Faced Polystyrene Board
Model #100000050460
This is an amazing idea ! I have been tossing and turning deciding what to put under my Intex once it arrives, No I have found it ! Thank you , this must work fantastic and feel great under foot ! Can't wait to do this !! Thanks ! Looks awesome !
i just did this- its great- my pool is warmer faster no doubt
About how many pieces I have same pool been digging and getting ground level but have rocky ground
You and me both..Summer will be over if I couldn’t come up with something
I was just about to buy sand and I found your video. Fantastic idea!
Have used 1/2 inch foam under my 24' round pool.Just finished ,works great. Gorilla tape works to secure foam.
just put out pool up today I did ground cloth , foam 3/4 inch then another tarp over the foam then pool Thanks again, seems this is going to work out !
Where did you get the foam from?
@@ponyxpress3 home Depot
@billynolanjr2266 did it work out well??
@@vivianhelt8860 worked out fantastic! No issues at all
@billynolanjr2266 fantastic!!! I also heard horse mats work also. What do you think
I was gonna do this this summer under a smaller 10x10 pool in my backyard great idea I already got the ground level and grass free
I did this last year. The guy at home depot suggested i use the foam board. We Leveled the sand put the foam board on top. I hate I didn't tape it down. So now that im about to change the liner. I'll be sure to tape it this time.
I have a 14 foot round by 42in tall pool and used solid top plastic pallets. 40x48x8 dug down 4 inches and leveled the ground. Installed a weed barrier and Bolted the plastic pallets together with all thread in a 5x5 square. Drilled holes in the pallets and drove rebar through holes into the ground hold foundation in place. Foundation was (200in x 240in) Most local companies have many pallets and give them away for free, just to get rid of them. I also made steps.
Stays level and makes a great foundation with no chance of anything cutting the bottom of the liner. $38 all in. Will be posting a video very soon. Just sharing what worked great for me since you’re swapping out your liner.
Great idea. I have the 8 foot easy set on my patio .. my patio slopes 4 inches and this is my solution.also provides a soft underlayment too
That foam board ain't cheap...
Nope. About 20 bucks a board and he has about 25 of them. That’s about $500 in foam board.
@@BMoney77 well worth it once you hear your children having the time of their life and all the good times spent with them imho
I did this a few years ago. It helps with the water temp and protection, but it feels amazing on the feet. Plus if you do spring a leak you don't get sand washout.
Did the foam insulation get crushed down under the weight of the pool? I’ve had a Intex pool for years, the 22’ one. It finally had it and I found this best way one really good price. It’s 2’ smaller. Well it just finished filling and it’s off on one side by 3”. I’m thinking the old one that was leaking softened up the ground and this is why. Was thinking about putting foam sheets under the half of the pool that is lower to raise it up. Was wondering if it will get crushed back down with the weight of pool and be uneven again?!
@@therealbeedubbs35 Surprisingly no. I used the blue foam insulation, 1" and no crush. When I take the pool down in the fall you can see the pock marks from the pea gravel but just small indentations.
@@quiptown8976 awesome thanks for replying. I was waiting to c. Ticks me off I have the pool so perfectly flat but one side is 3” lower. Gonna have to drain it. But thinking about buying the 2” for the low side and maybe get the .5” for the rest just so it’s all smooth on bottom. I’ll throw some more sand under it first to bring it up a tad on the low side!
@@therealbeedubbs35 As long as your base sand is contained it's not a problem. I actually didn't dig down, I made a raised box from 2x4s and filled it with pea gravel, leveled and put the foam board on top.
But my pool is only 15' round.
I used a bunch of moving blankets about 2 layers deep but the pool stood on concrete it made the ground softer than just a tarp.
It rotted away at the exposed sections but the unexposed sides were dry but still soft.
Had a bunch of those blankets laying around from when we moved.
This was a great idea. Allows me to use river rocks under the Rigid Foam to level , then in the winter the rocked area will be our fire-pit area. This was our first pool and didn't want to spend too much time digging into grass, then rocks to level. Now to build a 5-gallon bucket sand filter and a solar water heater
Did the foam damage too much from the river rocks underneath?
Did you cover whole area with the river rocks and add foam on top?
Did river rock work well?
@jesseperknat did river rock and pad work well?
@@Annie-px5ni NO, river rock to level is a terrible idea!
I was so excited to try this I went to Home Depot 2 days ago when I first saw this video and it's not really ideal being that the only phone board that I seen were like $20 a piece and they weren't much cheaper online
r tech 4'x8' is under $10 bucks at my local HD its still a little pricey but better than a tarp
Yea inflation is killing us we paid just about $20 a panel, for our 16x48 pool we used exactly 7 panels. IT'S WORTH IT! just for the cushioning alone.
@Jamie Boyettprice wise im in long Island NY, tied it to the roof of my car and drove it home. Just go slowly and they won't fly away like a sail lol.
Oh shit
@@robnos9901my pool 15 round
part of me says this is a great idea, another part says you really like to mess around with foam. :) thumbs up either way.
Yeah, I probably think of using foam before anyone else does.
This is exactly what I did, worked great. I used 2 inch, only mistake I made is I didnt tape the joints.
Did weeds grow through? I had some nutsedge grow through My pool last year
@@MrMedinaj I'm on my third year of using foam insulation. I taped my joints using duct tape. Zero weeds grow through. I also used a pea gravel sub base instead of sand but I don't think that makes a difference in the end result.
Does the fome compress much or break under the weight
@@danielkelly9673 not at all.
I did this same thing for my last intex pool. Held the pieces together with gorillia tape. Worked well. Nice surface.
We used interlocking foam pads taped together, our neighbors love our pool. I would imagine the foam may break/crack over time. Our interlocking foam has lasted three years and no degradation. It also fold up into a pie piece during the winter.
Did the foam insulation get crushed down under the weight of the pool? I’ve had a Intex pool for years, the 22’ one. It finally had it and I found this best way one really good price. It’s 2’ smaller. Well it just finished filling and it’s off on one side by 3”. I’m thinking the old one that was leaking softened up the ground and this is why. Was thinking about putting foam sheets under the half of the pool that is lower to raise it up. Was wondering if it will get crushed back down with the weight of pool and be uneven again?!?
I wonder if I can pick your brain? I'm preparing for a 15' x 48" intex pool. I've already dug down in put pavers in and I'm leveling them to each other and the center of the area. I'm gonna fill in the area with sand to make everything even with the pavers. I've got lawn edging tracked down to prevent sand washout in addition to it being dug down. Then I'm gonna put 1in foam board on top of all of and tape it down with that packing tape that's got the strings on it. I have no intention of taking this down for the winter. My question is can I put the pool on top of the foam over the pavers ice already put down? They're 12" x 12." Or do I need to put 7" x 4" pavers on top of the foam over the pavers underneath the legs?
Foam compresses under highly focused loads, like the foot of a support post. It would be best to spread that load out with a 2x6 block of wood or a paver.
@rowerwet My question as well I'm going to try and follow what you did. I may get a different brand insalation foam Due to the price because I'm on a budget and we upgraded to an 18 by 48. And I do not plan on taking it down I live in ohio. Do you take yours down ? Also I'm doing this by myself with my nephew 16. Where do I put the paper stones? How to get them level? I'm kind of using the 2 by 4 method going around in the circle. But at this point i'm kind of just winging it also
Pool arrives in 5 days. Even though winter is right around the corner. ( August 15th)
I really hope thos works. I am very excited.! And scared at the same time.
What size pool? We have a 16x48 I think lol we are doing this next month to ours. Our yard is very sloped so we had to dig out one side quite a bit and it handled the slope rather well. Only off about 2 inches after it settled and then when all the rain came and storm it shifted some. We are also using block to hold our rock in place.
Hi I just had to replace my pool liner and I'm thinking of using foam as a base for it next year (to late in the year to do it now) I like what you have done. Do you have a follow-up video showing what it looks like full of water?
I'll be making one soon
This is an excellent idea.bi actually had the same exact idea and found your video searching if anyone else did this.
This foam does not absorb water and will feel nice on the feet.
I have finally leveled the ground for my 18ft pool. I didn't want to haul all that sand to the backyard. I am probably going to go pickup these boards tonight.
Let us know how it goes!
@@promisedlanders It turned out great. I purchased I think 13 sheets at 14.00 each. I duct taped them really well together. It's very soft. I used 1/2 inch.
My neighbor put their pool directly on dirt. Something has punctured the bottom and there are hard spots in random places. They are doing this same idea.
Did you put the Foam Board directly on top of the dirt?
The foam sound like a plausible idea. But where is the sand base to keep the pool from shifting and maintain level? JustSaying.
The manufacturer specifically said not to use sand underneath because it is dangerous if the pool springs a leak.
The sand will wash away and make the hole larger, potentially sucking a swimmer under the water against the hole
If you have a pool, a pool dome from Fabrico is worth it’s weight in gold!
so two ish years later. how did the foam hold up?
lay out all your foam and tape it together but don't cut anything yet. you can then put together just the top ring/pipes of the pool and lay it on top of foam and mark out where your legs will be and cut accordingly to whatever board or paver stone you will use for your leg supports and it sits flush with foam
3 years out, how is it working now? Any mold issues foam still holding up etc?
No mold, showing their age a bit, but otherwise just fine, almost done filling the pool for season 4
@@rowerwet Awesome! Thanks for the update and response. So cool to see peoples ideas and be able to track them over time to see if they held up. I am about to buy my first pool and was wondering about cheap and efficient ways to underlay, seems like you are on to something great!
I had an idea on trying to put down a couple layers of indoor shag carpeting under a pool and trim off excess carpet after the pool is filled
Hi - I wondered how your foam worked under your pool? Did the joins hold up? Would you do it again, or make any improvements?
I just added a new video that covers that, I'm happy with it and other than needing to retape one or two seams for this season, it's ready to go
@@rowerwet great to hear
I was just about to ask the same question!
@@rowerwethow many pieces
I see this was posted. 2 years ago how did I make the pool after 2 year's . I would do something like that cause I have gophers that dig holes
It's doing fine, I make sure there are plenty of bricks holding it down while the pool is stored for the winter. I expect a third season will be no different
I guess they don't make the R-40 any longer, because I cannot find it anywhere.
Thank you for the video. We have to place our pool on bricks. I this this idea is great but over time does the foam give in from being under the pool? We usually use carpet but I saw your video and think it will work?
This foam is used under and around house foundations, it doesn't break down much at all. I actually build kayaks out of it, and expect them to outlast me
Sooo... a year later. how did it go?
So I'm planning on putting up a 12ft pool I caught this video my question is I do not plan on digging up grass just raking over the area as good as possible should I put tarp down then foam boards are opposite? Also since I'm not digging up the grass should I use sand as a base along with foam boards and of course tarp any help is appreciated
Nice video. About to get some foam and tarps to do what you did. 3 year video how is it holding up?
Excellent, I just filled the pool again for the summer, had to replace two corner edges that blew away over the winter, but the rest is doing fine
So how has it held for 3 years???
Going strong, just filled it for this summer
My pool is 15” Round . How many of those sheets do you think roughly I need? Mine going on concrete
I'd you say how many boards you used? And the dimensions of your pool?
Did you make those curved cuts with that utility knife? I ruined a few pieces just jagged cutting it with a box cutter when I couldn't get it in the car from lowes. Then it didn't fit flush
Utility or jack knife, I don't remember for sure
All of the foam panels have the score lines, you just don't have them all facing up so you can see them.
Not this thin stuff, or any of the kingspan foam from Lowes near me.
I'm definitely going to do this when I set my pool up for 1st time in another month. Best idea I've seen yet! Can you tell my what thickness you used? I have an 18' round, thinking maybe 12 sheets if I've figured correctly 🤔
Half is .5" and half is .75", just what was available when I went shopping
3/4 inch in his video.
Have you done this I'm thinking about doing it as well how did it work out
@@jeffduerlinger845 i was thinking about this and i run into this video so i think ima do it ... i wonder how it worked out for him
How many boards did u end up using
How many pieces of foam.did you need ? And about how much did it cost
How did it work out
Probably not well
I bought a 15ft x 48inch swimming pool from Amazon but I need foam boards just like u to set my pool on, so how many do I need to get for my pool. Mine looks the same is yours.
15 foot circle covers 177 square feet. The 4x8 sheets are 32 square feet. You will need at least 6 sheets. Maybe buy one or two extras if u make mistakes.
Did the pool and brick where you placed the foundation posts collide at all and create any problems
I use a jack and 2x4 to reposition the legs after the pool is full
Looking at doing the same, did you pull of the sod and level the dirt that was there? Or did you add a different type of soil to level it out?
Just pulled sod out. I actually dug it 4-6" deeper in the middle and tried to level the outer edge all the way around, it's still 3 inches lower on one side
Do they make this in 4 x 8 sheets?
Does it also act as a weed barrier?
Did you notice any water temperature difference after using the foam?
Yes it comes in 4x8 sheets. Nothing grew underneath the foam, so it might work against weeds. I think this helped the pool warm up and stay warm a little faster
P
If I use tongue and groove, do I still need to tape those sides?
I think it helps them not to move around the most
Hey I would like to know exactly what type of foam you used or which particular one do you recommend buying?
The pink is Owen's Corning and is sold at home depot. Blue green foam is Kingspan and is sold at Lowe's. Either one works just as well, the trade designation is XPS foam.
Does it matter there is small divots in the dirt?
Hi, did you use a tarp between insulation and pool liner? or did you place pool right on pink sheet?
I used a tarp only because I didn't know how it would all work. I think I will not use the tarp this year
So how well did this hold up? because I'm about to start setting mine up myself..
Doing just fine three years later
Can I put foam board on cement then cover it with the tarp and then the pool?
Yes
can i ask did it work well im in uk but thinking of this as im getting conflicting information on what to use
It worked great, I'm going to put the pool up again in a few weeks on the same foam. I'll probably retape the seams but that's it
@@rowerwet thanks what was thickness in cm or mm im looking at this instead of sand thinking this is better idea seem sand is cheaper but i heard people say they had so much issues with sand washing away
This is what I was thinking lol how does it hold up tho
Going into our third season with the same foam
@@rowerwet how’d you repair the patch work?
Would this work on top of grass without digging?
@@wendyward3273 probably
How did this work out for the entire season? We live in AZ, LOTS of rocks in the ground. We will definitely level, remove rocks, and tamp the ground but we want some insurance against possible liner punctures when we setup this season.
It worked perfectly, and has survived the ice and snow this winter just fine as well
So I have done this same thing for my first pool. What I would change and what I did wrong is don't have foam under the leg areas. I did put wood down on top of the foam but it broke thru the wood and the foam on the legs. So I would change it and just have the foam under the liner only. Also I added to much water before I could get all the wrinkles out of the bottom pool liner... So I would make sure to have the liner ground flat first before adding any water. Not much I can change about these issues now.
how many pcs of foam board did it take? what size pool? thanks
Did anyone just place the legs on the foam instead of digging bricks in the dirt
So how did it go. I ordered a pool.
About to set one up in the next few days…question..your legs don’t seem to be all sitting on the brick..is this intentional?
They are on the bricks before it gets filled
How about styrofoam? I've thought about using concrete pavers on river rocks to level...
Thanks for this great video. Question, does the foam also make it more comfortable for the people in the pool in terms of providing a softer ground rather than just the dirt. Thanks again.
Not really sure, thanks to buoyancy you have less impact and weight in the pool. The water is still heavy though, so the foam doesn't have any real give to it
@@rowerwet thanks for replying.
How are the windows holding up? I had the same pool and two leaked
Great idea!
How many boards did you use for 18ft pool.
I only have 15ft and trying to figure out how many foam boards I need to buy from Home Depot. And was 1/2” or 3/4” because this video says 3/4 thickness and the “year after video” Says 1/2”. Thank you
Where did you buy your foam boards at and would you put them under your pool still?
Si my Pool is 18 by 48 and I used the foam 1in and it’s 4 times 8 and it took 13 panels
I did it with foam too but i use 1/4in work good the only thig do it on a day the wind not blowing . 2:57
I used this foam under our pool and it is omitting a very nasty smell (dead animal smell). Has anyone else experienced this problem?
I’m trying to use this for 12x30 best way, how many sheets of 4x8 foam would I need
Do the math to find square footage. Each 4x8 sheet of foam is 32sqft. Get a couple extra sheets because you may have waste if there is rounded corner and such that you just can't use the whole sheet.
how is the pool holding up with the foam? Thinking of doing this too
The pool was fine should be setting it up again soon
Damn, setting up pools is ballache?
I thought id just chuck my new one up at weekend.
I ordered a cover that went under the pool, people save your money if you look at something like that, it said it was for pools, When I got it. it was no thicker than a bed sheet
Work for weeds? How you deal with that?
I know this question was asked nearly a year ago but maybe the info will help someone else.
Most installers I know of use a weed killer called a ground clear. It kills almost anything that can grow. Put that down and a lot of granular ant killer down to keep carpenter ants from putting hols in the liner.
so clever thank you
I think I like this idea. What did that amount of foam cost you about?
I'm about to do my pool foundation but thinking if I put down 2 inches of sand, I won't have to worry about rocks. At least I hope?
Pool makers say not to use sand since it quickly washes away if a leak develops, possibly causing a drowning risk.
I believe I mentioned the cost in the video, I'll have to go back and check since I don't remember
@@rowerwet thanks.
I just calculated the cost of putting down foam boards from H.D. for my pool size. It varies from $75 to $200 depending the board's maker/thickness/r value. I had heard some makers say not to use sand but I had never heard the reason why. That's interesting and good to know.
@@johns9990 the wash away happened to me sisters family last spring. They have a bigger above ground pool, and it's probably a decade old now.
They noticed water running out, so my brother in law got a repair section of pool liner and went diving to find the leak.
But as he was feeling for the hole it was carving away the sand and soil from under the edge. He felt the liner blow out and swam free of the rushing water.
It left a good sized hole in the ground and they couldn't get a liner all summer because they were all sold out because of covid.
Ive read several times not to use sand under pools. The jigsaw shaped outdoor foam mats look like a good option.
I'm putting in a 12'x30" pool for my granddaughter. This will work out well. Couple questions:
1) If I use a good quality tape for the joints do you think I still need a tarp?
2) I have read if you level the ground and use the same foam thickness as the stones/bricks to support the pool uprights it makes assembly easy (no digging for the stones). But don't you think 1" or 1-1/2" foam may be too thick?
Thanks - Mike
Half of mine is on 3/4" and half is on 1", just because that's what I could get at the moment. Any thickness is good, but as you mentioned, thicker requires more support to get the poles high enough.
A good tape will remove the need for a tarp, I just wasn't sure at the time and decided to play it safe
@@rowerwet Thanks for providing this video - was going to use 2" or 1-1/2" but went with Foamular 250 in 3/4". My big-box had it with tongue-groove design.
Got it all set up and found a pinhole leak in the side wall that I repaired but now there seems to be a leak in the bottom somewhere - I'm guessing the bottom. Will call Intex but how do you find a bottom leak?
@@youmbgtube that's a tough one, minimal water and crawling around underneath the bottom. Does not sound fun...
@@rowerwet I got lucky. The leak stopped. Strange - the drain plug had a slow drip-drip leak. Could it have taken 2-1/2 days to purge this water? That’s what seems happened.
How'd this work for you? The insulation underneath? Kelly
It gave me a worry free season, and has survived the winter covered in ice and snow so far. It will be another month before the pool could go up in new England.
@@rowerwet Thanks for getting back to me, I appreciate it. I thought of doing this.. but hadn't found anyone who did it. My lawn is terrible.. lumpy, uneven, bits of all kinds of glass, plastic, metal etc. I'm going to level/grade as best I can then put the insulation down to protect it from anything I didn't find and remove. Kelly
So do you recommend this
Yes, two years now and no problems, would do it again
What about using a price of carpet?
My father had a pool installed and they used inexpensive crushed foam carpet padding under the liner. It was used for cushion and protection from small rocks, but not used for insulation since if it becomes wet it would loose any insulating properties. Their pool was always soft under the feet.
Ngx or xps?
What kind of foam is that? Hardness level?
XPS, normal density.
How did it work out?
If you check out my other videos I show it in use for a number of years now. Takes a lot of worrying out of setting up a temporary pool
@@rowerwet thanks i was looking to see if anyone has used it. I plan on doing it on my permanent pool.
How thick is the foam?
. 75"
how much is the foamboard? where you get it from?
Around here 2" 4x8 foot is $33/ sheet give or take a few cents. I shop in a tax free state so no sales tax
Home depot, 1" is about $11 each IIRC
My opinion based on my waterproofing contractor from two years ago. The foam will be water logged after rain and ground water absorb into over the years. My contractor said he doesn’t use this type foam boards against cement block walls for this reason. I would think being under the pool you risk depression spots in pool floor in the long run. But hope it works out for all your efforts
I put out another video showing the foam a year later. It's just as dry and solid as it was last summer. This winter I left it out under the ice and snow, drove over it with my truck a few times, with no issues.
It is not waterlogged, since this is closed cell foam, it's not able to absorb much if any water.
I did this to my pool five years ago and never had a issue with water logging it heald up great. However after five years the product needs to be replaced because of thinning and the roots under it (weeds) grew up into it
On other words, based on everyone else's comments is your waterproofing contractor is a liar! Get a new one.
it is closed cell foam board, will never absorb water
Would 1/2 work do you think or should I go with 3/4 thick?
Half of this is 1/2" and half is 3/4", half inch is plenty in my experience
How many board panels did it take mine is also 18'
I just did my 18' round Intex with foam board. It took (9) 4'x8' boards. 😉 hope this helps! I also used 1 1/2" .. overkill I suppose but area was a bit lumpy to start with.
@@michellehaywood8971 3/4 foam worked fine, but I ended up emptying my pool because I have mixed soil, some sections regular black dirt and others with mostly clay. What started off 1/2 offlevel became 2" quickly after a little rain...:( I'm so bummed out.
Did u cut round to fit pool or used full boards. I have a 18’ pool also
I did the the same thing after i put 3/8 of gravel. I bought the foam from Home Depot
Will this grow mold?
Hasn't in three years
What size is your pool? I have the same kind and want to try this!
18 foot
@@rowerwet Did you make an 18' circle, or did you go wider? I have an 18' and I just cut almost 20'. I am thinking I should cut it down some before placing. Thanks!
I have a 15ft pool I'm putting up, I'm wondering how much 4x8 foam boards I need.... any help is greatly appreciated.
To find the area use 3.14 x radius x radius. For a 15ft round you need about 176sqft. A 4ftx8ft sheet is 32 sq ft so you'll need 6 sheets. Cutting and fitting isn't 100% efficient and you'll have some unusable pieces so get 7 and you'll have enough:)
7
7
@@jessiemagee3098 There's a easier way to find it out than that
Will this work on concrete?
Yea
So how did the foam work out? Really thinking of doing this next year as we already set ours up. This looks like it would be a great idea
I made a second video showing what the foam looks like after one season of use, and a foot or more of snow on it this winter. other than new tape on the seams it is ready to go for another season
@@rowerwet Awesome! I'll go check out the video. Thanks for this idea and the reply :)
Mine is going on concrete
How many foam boards did you have to buy to fit the 18ft radius? 18ft has a 256 square feet roughly i guess, so 4x8 = 32 sq ft per board. 256 / 32 = 8 plus waste etc... im gonna guess you used 13 or so boards? Is that correct? Thanks! I am planning on doing this in a few weeks for my coleman 18x48 pool.
I think I said it in the video, I have no idea how many at this point.
Those are 2x 8 in his video btw
Just put sand under it
could have done concrete cheaper
Nice way to destroy your ward permanently though
Great idea!