Does My In-Ground Pool Liner Need Replacement?

An astute pool-owner knows that it is far better to replace a pool liner before it becomes imperative. Nobody wants to replace their pool liner when they might have gotten another season out of it, but leaks can cause a number of problems that get worse with time. Resulting repairs can add up to far more than the cost of a replacement liner.

So, what are the signs that you may need a new pool liner?

Leaks

If you suspect you’ve got a leak, it’s best to find it immediately and either patch or replace. A thorough visual inspection will sometimes turn up the culprit, be it a scratch, tear, or wearing of the liner. However, finding leaks can be much trickier than it sounds. Pin-hole leaks it can be almost impossible to pinpoint, so it may be enough just to confirm that you have a leak.

Evaporation is normal, but if you suspect your pool is losing more than the average inch per week into the air, there’s a handy trick to help investigate. Place a bucket, partly submerged, on one of the stairs going into the pool and adjust it so that the water level is equal between the bucket and the pool. The water in the bucket will be subject to the same evaporation, but if your pool is losing water faster due to a leak, it will show a lower waterline after a week or two.

Deformations

Wrinkles, bubbles, and other shifts in the pool liner can be indicative of a future problem. It may cause the liner to pull out of the track or result in looseness around the fittings, which can lead to significant leaks. Though deformations like this aren’t a surefire indicator of the need for a replacement, they will inevitably lead to such indicators.

Fading

The average vinyl pool liner lasts 10-15 years before it succumbs to major breakdown from exposure to UV rays and water treatment chemicals. If your liner is approaching that age, the chances are that it’s feeling its age, and will eventually start to become brittle, developing cracks or splits. If your pool liner is exhibiting any of these symptoms, then a replacement should be on the horizon.

Remember that it’s best to preempt any problems with your pool liner before they become more costly. If you decide that you need a pool liner replacement, or if you’re having trouble deciding, the experts at Taylor Made Pools can help.

Taylor Made Pools, based in Surrey, BC, is your go-to pool contractor for in-ground swimming pools, hot tubs, decks, and pool renovations on the Lower Mainland. With over 30 years of experience and a passion for beautiful pools and happy clients, Taylor Made Pools will help you realize your backyard dreams.

If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about pools, please feel free to contact us using the handy form on our Contact page.