Does it hurt liner of an above ground pool to put mulch around it?

Mulch can be damaging to the liner of an above ground pool if it comes into direct contact with it. The material in mulch tends to decompose, which results in the production of heat and the release of certain chemicals. These can negatively affect the liner, breaking down the material over time and potentially leading to leaks or damage.

Therefore, it's important to ensure that a proper gap is maintained between the mulch and the liner to prevent any direct contact. A safe distance of 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) between the mulch and the liner is generally recommended to avoid any potential harm. Additionally, choosing mulch materials that are less prone to decomposing, such as rubber mulch, can further minimize the risk of damaging the pool liner.