3 Vinyl Pool Liner Mistakes to Avoid

When you own an above-ground pool, you really need to use a vinyl pool liner in order to maintain the pool's life. A vinyl pool liner is treated with chemicals so it can remain in water for long periods and will not rapidly fade, but instead maintain a sharp color inside the pool. Vinyl is not a material that is superior in strength, though it can withstand a lot of flat abuse. This ability makes it perfect to be used as a pool liner.

Your pool steps have a flat base (if they have one at all), as do your feet and water shoes. A vinyl pool liner is very easily torn by sharp edges, which is why you need to make sure the pool walls are smooth, that there are no rocks or roots in the site, and that sand is used to level the ground. When a rip or puncture occurs and you cannot repair the vinyl pool liner, you will need to replace it. The article that follows covers several common mistakes you can avoid when buying or installing a vinyl pool liner.

1. Getting the Size Wrong

When you go out to purchase a vinyl pool liner, you really need to know the correct size of your pool. This is very important because if you try to install a vinyl pool liner that is smaller than your pool, it will not fit correctly. On the other side of the coin is if you buy a vinyl pool liner that is too large, you will need to trim it.

This can take a lot of time, and if you mess up the trimming, then you may find yourself having to replace the vinyl pool liner before you even get it installed. If the pool is relatively new, the diameter and depth will be listed on the box. If not, you can find out the measurement by using a tape measure and taking measurements from the center to the rim and from side to side at the widest part of the pool. Also keep in mind if the pool is round or oblong.

2. Not Making It Flat

Prior to installing the vinyl pool liner, you really need to make sure the ground is very flat and level. You also need to remove any rocks or roots that are present. After you remove this debris, lay down a layer of landscaper’s fabric and, on top of that, place sandbox sand. Tamp it down until it is even. Place the pool over this area. When you install the vinyl pool liner, also make sure it is flat and free of wrinkles, as this prevents something from snagging on the vinyl and ripping or puncturing it.

3. Not Securing the Liner

When you are in a pool swimming and playing, the vinyl pool liner can come loose from the wall of the pool. Use metal or plastic clips to secure the liner in place.