Replacing a vinyl pool liner is an investment, which is why most pool owners are hesitant to replace them at the first sign of trouble. But waiting to replace your liner could cause more damage down the line.
On average, and with proper maintenance, vinyl liners last about 10-15 years. This sounds like a long time, but it comes quickly! The good news is that you can replace your liner, refresh the look of your pool and get a thicker, higher quality material all at the same time.
Below are four signs that it’s time for a vinyl liner replacement in Jackson.
1. Cracks and Rips
One of the most obvious signs that your liner needs to be replaced is when it starts to crack and rip. Over time, the UV rays from the sun and the pool chemicals needed for maintenance break down the liner. This causes the vinyl to be delicate, and it can easily rip or tear. You’ll typically notice these cracks near the surface of the water.
A word of caution, though. A small leak does not necessarily mean your liner needs to be replaced. Most small leaks can be repaired with a basic liner patch kit. It’s only when there’s multiple rips or a rip that you can’t fix with a patch that requires a new liner.
2. Fading or Staining
Another sign of UV and chemical damage is when your vinyl liner starts to fade or show stains. In fact, this sign typically comes before the cracks and rips. This fading means that the liner is becoming brittle and will eventually be sensitive to tearing.
3. Stretching and Wrinkles
It’s common for vinyl liners to lose some of their plasticity and elasticity over the years. Sometimes, the wrinkles can get so bad, they’ll pull the liner out of the track at the top of the pool. You can try to pop it back in, but it’s possible that it may not work with you. If this happens, or the problem keeps coming back, it’s time for a new liner.
4. Water Leaks
Not all leaks and cracks are easy to spot, so you’ll want to monitor any water loss, especially as your liner nears the end of its lifespan. If the leaks are below the surface of the water, you probably won’t see them so it’s helpful to watch for water loss. If you believe you’re experiencing loss, use a simple “bucket test” to determine if you’re losing water from a leak or natural evaporation.
If you’re noticing any of the signs listed above, it’s probably time to update your vinyl liner. Don’t try to squeeze more life out of your liner, as this can lead to more costly problems down the road. Instead, use this time to find a high quality liner that will add valuable years onto your swimming pool.