Protective blankets and floor mats

Protective mats and ground mats act as a cushioning shield between the ground surface and the pool base. Their main function is to absorb the continuous mechanical friction caused by the water and swimmers, effectively protecting sensitive components such as the Blue Gre liner Ø 350x120 for round pools from cuts caused by stones, gravel, or roots.

For rough concrete surfaces, it’s best to install 4.5 mm-thick expanded polyethylene tiles before setting up the structure. This material absorbs the impact of the rough spots in the concrete slab and provides a softer, more cushioned feel underfoot. If the floor is perfectly smooth, a continuous mat made from rot-proof polyester geotextile is enough to prevent abrasive wear on the PVC.

The main difference lies in the format and cushioning capacity beneath the structure:

• Interlocking tile mats: commonly made of polyethylene with a perimeter interlocking system, they offer a specific technical thickness of 4.5 mm, providing high absorption against mechanical impacts.
• Continuous mats: made from a single piece of polyester geotextile with no visible joints, recommended for uniform rectangular or oval surfaces.

Both options prevent hydrostatic pressure from degrading the plastic base over time.

The best protection when replacing the liner is to prepare the bottom surface and install a physical puncture-resistant barrier before filling the pool completely. Remove any accumulated dirt and cracks from the ground. It's also a good idea to have emergency accessories on hand, such as the Starpool liner repair kit, to deal with any unexpected issues at the joints while the bottom settles under the pressure of the water.

To calculate the exact dimensions, add at least 20 to 30 centimeters to the pool's diameter or perimeter dimensions:

• Round pools: measure the outer diameter and add 40 cm to ensure a sufficient perimeter margin.
• Oval or rectangular pools: measure the outer length and width of the metal profiles and select a ground cloth larger than those dimensions.
• Modular puzzle-style systems: divide the total required surface area in square meters by the area covered by each pack of tiles.

Placing a protective ground cloth directly on compacted, uneven soil compromises the pool's structural stability. The ground cloth acts as a barrier against stones and sharp objects, but it does not correct ground imperfections. First remove any stones, level the ground with a compacted base of fine sand 1 to 2 cm thick, then lay the ground cloth over the smooth base to extend the life of the entire setup.

Reusing the ground cloth is viable as long as the fabric retains its structural integrity and has no tears or severe crushing. At the end of the 2026 swimming season, clean the base with gentle water pressure to remove mud or mineral salt residue, let it dry completely before folding, and store it in a dry place protected from direct sunlight to prevent premature degradation of the synthetic material.