An inground pool is a significant investment—and keeping it in top shape requires proper maintenance, especially when it comes to the vinyl liner. Over time, liners can fade, stretch, or tear due to exposure to sun, chemicals, and general wear. If your pool liner is showing signs of aging, leaks, or damage, a professional inground liner replacement may be necessary to restore your pool’s appearance and functionality. On the other hand, if you decide to build a new swimming pool, you may contact pool builders Geelong to discuss your project and get an estimate.
Understanding the replacement process can help homeowners plan effectively, minimize downtime, and ensure the job is done right. Here’s what you can expect during the process of replacing your inground pool liner.
1. Initial Inspection and Measurement
The process begins with a detailed inspection of your pool. A pool professional will assess the condition of the current liner, look for signs of structural issues in the pool shell, and measure the pool precisely. Accurate measurements are critical to ensure the new liner fits perfectly, especially if the pool has custom shapes or features like steps, benches, or deep ends.
2. Selecting a New Liner
Today’s market offers a wide variety of liner styles, thicknesses, and patterns. Homeowners can choose from classic blue finishes to modern tile or stone-look designs. During this stage, you’ll also decide on liner thickness—typically 20 or 27 mil. Thicker liners may offer more durability but can also cost more.
Your pool technician can help recommend the best options based on your pool’s structure, usage, and budget.
3. Draining the Pool
Once the new liner is ordered and ready for installation, the pool will need to be completely drained. Specialized equipment is used to pump out the water safely. At this stage, care is taken to protect the pool structure from hydrostatic pressure or potential movement caused by soil conditions.
If your pool has a hydrostatic relief valve at the bottom, the technician will ensure it’s working properly to prevent any structural shifts.
4. Old Liner Removal and Surface Prep
After the pool is drained, the old liner is carefully removed. Technicians will inspect the pool walls and floor for rust, cracks, or damage. Any imperfections are patched or smoothed out, ensuring the surface beneath the new liner is clean and level. Foam padding may be added to enhance comfort and liner longevity, especially in high-traffic pools.
5. Installing the New Liner
The new liner is then positioned and secured into place using a system of tracks or coping around the perimeter of the pool. Installers use vacuums to remove air between the liner and pool walls, ensuring a tight fit without wrinkles or bubbles.
This step is delicate and time-sensitive, as the liner needs to be adjusted while dry to ensure perfect alignment before the pool is refilled.
6. Filling the Pool and Final Adjustments
Once the liner is secured and vacuumed into place, the pool is filled with water—typically using a hose or trucked-in water delivery. As the water level rises, installers will monitor the liner to make final adjustments and ensure it’s settling properly against the pool walls and floor.
At this point, fittings like skimmers, drains, and return jets are reinstalled and sealed to prevent future leaks.
7. Water Testing and Chemical Balancing
After the pool is full, the water needs to be tested and balanced. Initial chemical treatment is important to protect the new liner from staining or damage. Your pool professional will test pH, chlorine, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels and recommend the appropriate treatments.
Proper water balance from the start is essential for preserving the color and integrity of the new liner.
Final Thoughts
An inground liner replacement is a vital maintenance project that can extend the life of your pool and significantly improve its appearance. While the process involves multiple steps and several days, working with experienced professionals ensures that everything from measurements to water balancing is handled with care.
With a fresh liner in place, your pool will not only look brand new—it’ll also be safer, more comfortable, and ready for many more seasons of enjoyment. If your current liner is nearing the end of its life, planning a replacement now can help avoid unexpected repairs and keep your pool in peak condition.