Coving/Happy Feet/ Wall foam? To use or not to use?

[hrsdennis]

Ditto what Matt said. Give me a quality pool on firm, level ground with a sand base anyday of the week.

Dennis

[sevver]

I have the cove and the foam bottom on mine, the first time I didn't, and I happen to like the feel of my bottom better with it. The sand tended to get footprints in it and the foam does not. The rigid pink or blue insulation foam would probably get footprints in it also. I would recommend against that personally as it cracks and dents easily. But I am sure that the foam can be had for cheap if you were to get it for packaging purposes, especially if you got it direct from the manufacturer.

[hrsdennis]

Just a couple of more points, not to argue, just for thought.

On my last pool I used 1 1/2" styrafoam 4 x 8 sheets. I had them on hand and wanted to use them for something. I liked the end result very much. The bottom was just a little softer than sand and there were never any footprints or cracks. Thickness may be a factor there.

In many cases sand can lead to lots and lots of footprints. I am talking about a good sand installation. Without wrinkles and footprints. Not everyone can do that so other options may be better for you.

One thing I can say about sand compared to any other types of base. If you do get wrinkles in the bottom sand is the easiest base to smooth them out and make the liner look presentable. With a harder surface wrinkles can become a nightmare.

Best of luck, Dennis

[matt4x4]

I have a sand bottom in my pool, and sand coves with the vapor barrier in an L shape to hold the sand back, and i can attest to hrdennis' statement, if done right, sand bottoms are excellent and also the cheapest way to go.
I took my time making sure it was nice and flat (although I did dip it 8" deeper to the middle which is REALLY hard to do with rigid foam), and i spent a lot of time compacting everything well.
It's a bit more involved to get the liner in without causing dents in the sand, but it's not impossible at all