How to Install an Above Ground Pool Liner

An above ground pool.
  • 2-3 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 40-60
What You'll Need
Duct tape
Shop vac
Soft bristled broom
Razor knife
Sump pump
Wooden clothespins
Garden hose
What You'll Need
Duct tape
Shop vac
Soft bristled broom
Razor knife
Sump pump
Wooden clothespins
Garden hose

Installing an above ground pool liner may sound like a complicated job that you have to leave to the pros. It is not as complicated as it sounds though. With the right information, tools, and materials, you can prepare and install your above ground pool liner yourself in no time and save a lot of money. The job will also be fun and you can get help from your family while you do it.

Step 1 - Prepare the Pool

Prepare the pool for effective installation of the ground pool liner. Drain all the water from the pool using a sump pump. Clear the liner area by removing hung ladders and other equipment from the area. You don’t need any obstruction in the liner area before you start the installation. Also from inside the pool area, remove faceplates and gaskets from the returns, lights, etc. Replace these faceplates if they are cracked or damaged.

Step 2 - Remove Old Liner

Use a razor knife to cut the old liner into small pieces. You can use this technique to easily remove the old pool liner. When you’re done removing the pool liner, clear the entire pool area from any pebbles and rocks that may have accumulated over time.

Step 3 - Seal Holes in the Pool

Before you install the above ground pool liner, seal the through-the-wall skimmer with cardboard. Use duct tape to attach the cardboard on to the surface. Then seal the water-return and the light holes the same way using duct tape. When done, insert a 2-inch shop vac hose through the skimmer area and seal it well into place using duct tape.

Step 4 - Install Above Ground Pool Liner

First, fold the pool liner in half. Place the liner around the pool area without allowing it to fall into the pool. Using help from family members here can make the job easier and more fun. Carefully unfold the liner in the pool area with help from family members. Keep attaching the liner to the pool wall using clothespins. Do this effectively by pulling the liner at least 6 inches over the pool wall. When done, tap the pool liner towards the walls. You have to make sure that the bottom seam is even and does not have lumps.

Now, connect the shop vac to the vac hose and turn it on. This will suck out air from the liner area and you can then tighten the pool liner by removing and attaching the clothespins. Use help from your family here as this has to be done quickly.

Step 5 - Finish the Job

Keep the vac hose attached and start filling the pool with water. When you have filled the pool at least 1 inch, turn the shop vac off. Reattach all the equipment you removed from the pool now and remove the clothespins as you do that. When water has reached around a 1-foot level, reinstall all the gaskets and faceplates. Your job is done.