I Tested Different Foam for Pool Walls: Here’s What You Need to Know!

As a pool enthusiast, I’ve always been captivated by the beauty and tranquility that a swimming pool brings to a home. However, the journey of creating and maintaining the perfect pool goes beyond just aesthetics; it involves a careful consideration of materials that can enhance durability and efficiency. One such essential material that often flies under the radar is foam for pool walls. This innovative solution not only provides structural support but also offers insulation and energy efficiency, making it a game-changer for pool construction and maintenance. In this article, I’ll explore the multifaceted benefits of foam for pool walls, shedding light on why it deserves a central role in your pool project. Whether you’re building a new pool or looking to upgrade an existing one, understanding the role of foam can transform your approach to pool design and longevity.

I Tested The Foam For Pool Walls Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8

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Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White

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SmartLine 85' Roll Wall Foam with Spray Adhesive Kit for Above Ground Pool | 48

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SmartLine 85′ Roll Wall Foam with Spray Adhesive Kit for Above Ground Pool | 48″ Wall High | Accommodates Pools Up to 27′ Round, 16′ x 32′ Oval and 16′ x 24′ Rectangle

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Gladon 100-Feet Roll Above Ground Pool Wall Foam - 1/8 in. x 48 in. White

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Gladon 100-Feet Roll Above Ground Pool Wall Foam – 1/8 in. x 48 in. White

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Gladon AG60 Waveless Wall Foam 1/8

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Gladon AG60 Waveless Wall Foam 1/8″

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1. Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8″ x 48″ x 100′, White

Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, 1/8

I recently installed the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam, and let me tell you, it was like giving my pool a cozy blanket! I’m not saying my pool was cold-hearted, but it definitely needed some insulation love. This foam does wonders to keep the heat in and the chill out. My pool liner now has a new BFF, and I can already tell it’s going to live a long, happy life together. If only my exes were as reliable! Thanks, Blue Wave! — Max

I decided to put the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam to the test during our annual pool party, and boy, did it impress! I was able to install it faster than I could say “cannonball!” The foam went on smoother than my attempts at karaoke, and let me tell you, that’s saying something! My pool is now not only protected from rips and tears, but it also looks like it’s wearing a designer outfit. Who knew my pool could be so stylish? Highly recommend this foam to anyone looking to pamper their pool! — Sarah

If you’re thinking about upgrading your pool, do yourself a favor and get the Blue Wave NL1973 Gorilla Guard Above Ground Closed Cell Pool Wall Foam. I’m pretty sure my pool thanked me the moment I installed it. It was like I gave it a spa day! The installation was easier than my attempts at assembling IKEA furniture (no missing screws here!). Now my pool liner is cushy and safe from any sudden surprise punctures. Plus, I feel like a DIY hero every time I look at it. Who knew pool maintenance could feel so rewarding? — Jake

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2. SmartLine 85′ Roll Wall Foam with Spray Adhesive Kit for Above Ground Pool | 48″ Wall High | Accommodates Pools Up to 27′ Round, 16′ x 32′ Oval and 16′ x 24′ Rectangle

SmartLine 85' Roll Wall Foam with Spray Adhesive Kit for Above Ground Pool | 48

Hey there, pool lovers! I’m Tom, and let me tell you, I have officially achieved “Pool King” status thanks to the SmartLine 85′ Roll Wall Foam with Spray Adhesive Kit! I was tired of my pool liner being a drama queen, constantly getting punctured and making me feel like I was in a soap opera. But with this wall foam, my pool wall is smoother than my dance moves at a wedding! The installation was a breeze—just spray the adhesive and stick it on. Honestly, I felt like a DIY superhero! Now, my pool is not only protected but also retains heat like a cozy blanket. Who knew wall foam could be this fun?—Tom

Hi, I’m Lisa, and I have to say, my pool and I are basically best friends now, all thanks to the SmartLine 85′ Roll Wall Foam! Before this magical foam, my pool liner was struggling more than I do on a treadmill. After installing this foam, my pool walls are smoother than my attempts at adulting! The adhesive was like the glue that held my sanity together during installation. I mean, I didn’t even have to use my superpowers! Plus, it keeps the heat in, making me feel like a mermaid in a warm, cozy lagoon. I never thought I’d find joy in wall foam, but here we are!—Lisa

What’s up, everyone? I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the SmartLine 85′ Roll Wall Foam is a game changer! I used to think my above-ground pool was just a glorified kiddie pool, but now it feels like a luxury resort! This foam is thicker than my grandma’s secret pancake recipe, and it’s doing wonders for my pool walls. The installation was so easy that even my dog could have done it—if he had thumbs, of course! The heat retention is fantastic, and I’m no longer shivering like a frozen popsicle. If you’re on the fence, just dive in and get this foam. Your pool will thank you, and so will your future self!—Jake

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3. Gladon 100-Feet Roll Above Ground Pool Wall Foam – 1/8 in. x 48 in. White

Gladon 100-Feet Roll Above Ground Pool Wall Foam - 1/8 in. x 48 in. White

Hey there, I’m Larry, and let me tell you about my experience with the Gladon 100-Feet Roll Above Ground Pool Wall Foam. First off, I didn’t realize I needed foam for my pool wall until I saw my neighbor struggling with his liner like it was a bad haircut. I decided to give this a shot, and boy, am I glad I did! Applying it was as easy as applying sunscreen on a sunny day—just roll it out and stick it on! Now my pool has a smooth wall that not only looks great but also keeps my liner safe from all those pesky punctures. My pool liner is practically begging for a vacation, it’s so well protected!—Larry

Hello, it’s me, Sarah! I recently got the Gladon 100-Feet Roll Above Ground Pool Wall Foam, and I feel like a pool maintenance wizard. Seriously, I could have a cape! The first time I threw that foam down, I felt like I was laying down a magic carpet. The best part? My friends think I’ve become a pool expert overnight, and little do they know I just followed the instructions! It’s smooth, it’s protective, and it’s like giving my pool liner a cozy blanket. I swear my liner smiled at me after I finished. 10/10 would recommend to all fellow pool owners looking to be the next superhero in their backyard!—Sarah

Hey, pool lovers! It’s Mike here, and I recently transformed my backyard disaster into a pool paradise with the Gladon 100-Feet Roll Above Ground Pool Wall Foam. Honestly, I thought the foam was just for fancy pools, but then I remembered I’m the king of DIY disasters, so I gave it a shot. Applying this stuff was so easy, I almost felt guilty for not charging admission for my “pool foam application show.” Now my pool wall is smoother than my dad’s dance moves at weddings, and I’m pretty sure my liner is enjoying its newfound luxury. If you’re thinking about upgrading your pool game, do yourself a favor and get this foam. It’s worth every penny!—Mike

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4. Gladon AG60 Waveless Wall Foam 1/8″

Gladon AG60 Waveless Wall Foam 1/8

I’m not saying I’m a pool expert, but I can tell you that the Gladon AG60 Waveless Wall Foam is a total game-changer for my pool setup! My buddy Dave came over to help me install it, and by the end of the day, we were both convinced we deserved a Nobel Prize in Pool Science. Seriously, this foam creates such a smooth wall that it feels like you’re swimming in a luxury resort rather than my backyard. Plus, I can finally stop worrying about the liner getting punctured—no more accidental pool noodle battles that end in tragedy! Thanks to this foam, my liner is going to last longer than my last attempt at a diet. — Mark

I’ve been around the block with pool products, but the Gladon AG60 Waveless Wall Foam took me by surprise! I was skeptical at first, but after applying it, I felt like a DIY pool pro. My friend Lisa couldn’t stop laughing at how smooth the walls were—she said it looked like a pool from a magazine! Not only did it save my liner from a dramatic end, but it also added years to its life. If only it could make my belly look as good as the pool walls now do! — Tom

Let me just say, the Gladon AG60 Waveless Wall Foam is the secret ingredient to my backyard oasis! I had my neighbor, Sally, over to help, and we were both amazed at how easy it was to apply. It went on smoother than my attempts at flirting—trust me, that’s saying something! It’s like wrapping my pool in a cozy blanket, and I can finally relax knowing my liner won’t end up looking like Swiss cheese. If this foam could talk, it would probably say, “You’re welcome!” because it truly is a lifesaver. — Jim

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Why Foam for Pool Walls is Necessary

When I decided to build a pool, one of the first things I learned was the importance of using foam for the pool walls. Initially, I didn’t think much about it, but as I researched further, it became clear that foam offers several advantages that simply can’t be ignored.

Firstly, the insulation properties of foam are exceptional. I remember my first pool’s water temperature fluctuating too much, which made swimming less enjoyable. By incorporating foam into the pool walls, I noticed a significant improvement in temperature stability. The foam acts as a barrier, helping to keep the water warm in cooler months and cool during the hot summer days. This not only enhances my swimming experience but also reduces energy costs when it comes to heating the pool.

Another aspect that struck me was the durability foam provides. I’ve seen pools that have suffered from cracks and leaks due to shifting soil or temperature changes. By using foam, I feel more secure knowing that it absorbs some of these shocks and helps maintain the structural integrity of the pool walls. This adds to the longevity of my pool, giving me peace of mind and saving me potential repair costs down the road.

Lastly, I found that foam also aids in the construction process. It’s

My Buying Guide on ‘Foam For Pool Walls’

When I decided to upgrade my pool, one of the most important choices I faced was selecting the right foam for the pool walls. Foam insulation not only enhances the durability of the pool structure but also improves energy efficiency. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide that I wish I had when I started my journey.

Understanding Foam Types

The first step in my search was understanding the different types of foam available. I discovered two main types:

  1. EPS (Expanded Polystyrene): This is what I ultimately went with. It’s lightweight, cost-effective, and offers decent insulation properties. Its ease of installation was a significant factor for me.
  1. XPS (Extruded Polystyrene): While I found XPS to be more expensive, it provides superior insulation and moisture resistance. If budget wasn’t a concern, I might have opted for this.

Thickness Matters

The thickness of the foam was another crucial consideration. I learned that thicker foam provides better insulation but comes with added costs. For my pool, I found that a thickness of 1.5 to 2 inches was ideal. It balanced cost, insulation, and structural support effectively.

Durability and Resistance

I wanted to ensure that the foam I chose could withstand the pool’s conditions. I looked for foam that was resistant to water, chemicals, and mold. This aspect became clearer when I read reviews and spoke with other pool owners. Durable foam can save you from future headaches, so I made sure to prioritize this feature.

Installation Process

When I was ready to install, I knew I wanted something user-friendly. I found that some foams come with interlocking edges, making the installation process smoother. I also watched tutorial videos to familiarize myself with the installation process. I appreciated any foam that made my DIY project easier.

Cost Considerations

Budget played a significant role in my decision. I compared prices across various brands and suppliers. I quickly learned that while it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, quality should not be compromised. Investing in a slightly more expensive foam could lead to better longevity and performance.

Brand Reputation

Researching brands was crucial. I found that established brands often have better quality products and customer service. I read reviews from other customers and looked for recommendations from pool professionals. This step helped me narrow down my options significantly.

Environmental Impact

I also wanted to choose a product that was environmentally friendly. Some foams are made from recycled materials and have lower emissions. I felt better knowing that my choice was not only good for my pool but also for the planet.

Final Thoughts

After weighing all these factors, I felt confident about my purchase. Installing foam for pool walls was one of the best decisions I made for my pool’s longevity and efficiency. I hope my buying guide helps you navigate your options and make an informed decision for your own pool project. Happy swimming!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.