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How often should I change my pool liner?

Pool Maintenance

There are several factors to consider before replacing your pool liner.

My Grandma June always said if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. Pool guys love to sell pool liners, but that doesn’t mean you need one. It’s a great way to update your pool and make it look brand spanking new. But, just because your liner is looking a little tired and faded doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to fork over the Benjamins.

The function of a pool liner is to keep the water in your pool. If you are not losing water and the look of your liner isn’t driving you batty you are safe holding out another season. The typical liner lasts about 10 years with balanced water chemistry. Making sure little Johnny isn’t throwing lawn furniture in the pool and scruffy isn’t clawing around helps too.

Over time chemicals will start to fade the pattern and UV rays will take a toll. The liner will eventually become more ridged as it loses elasticity. This opens up a slew of issues. As it becomes more brittle it is prone to tearing and if it is really brittle it can even crumble or break above the waterline. With improper chemical balance or as it ages you may develop wrinkles which can lead to tears.

If the liner is getting up there in years and you are noticing it is becoming brittle, fading is more visible, or it is wrinkled (a lot like Grandma June) it is probably time to start budgeting. It is always better to be proactive than reactive. If are noticing some of these issues you may want to have your trusted pool guy out and have a conversation about replacement. If you think you are getting close you may want to pull the trigger before you start experiencing water loss or other issues. The typical liner takes 1 to 2 weeks to get delivered after your pool has been measured. Once it arrives it will take another week to install, re-fill the pool, balance the chemicals and get it swim ready. That is 3 weeks of splashing around in the summer you are missing out on.

Over time chemicals will start to fade the pattern and UV rays will take a toll.

How much does it cost to get your liner replaced you ask? It really varies based on the size and shape of your pool. If you live out in the country it may be a little more to account for travel time. In the great City of Omaha you are likely going to be somewhere between $3,500 and $6,000. For the most common 18’ x 36’ rectangle in-ground pool you are going to be in the $4,300 range. If you have floor work that needs to be completed or other structural issue you will be looking at a little more. A lot of times you won’t know if there is extra work to be completed until you pull the liner out.

The easy answer is, your pool is holding water, don’t fix it. Just wanting a new look? A new liner is one of the easiest ways to transform your pool. If your liner is showing some of the symptoms listed above or if you are seeing tears above the waterline it may be a good idea to be proactive and at the very least have your trusted pool professional out for a looky loo.

Tags :
chemical balance,pool liner
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