Replacing a pool liner isn’t cheap. This is why the majority of homeowners are hesitant at first and would like to extend its life as much as they can. However, with time, the pool liner will need replacement by a pool builder. That said, we are going to discuss some signs that will tell you when it’s time to change the liner along with how you can prolong its lifespan.
Cracks And Rips
A common sign of pool liner replacement is when it starts to crack. This is something natural and takes place as the pool is exposed to the UV rays and the chemicals that are used to keep the water safe and clean.
As a result, the liner becomes brittle and when it becomes brittle, it will begin to crack and rip more easily. As they are due to damage from UV rays, the cracks of pool liner appear in areas that are near the surface.
So, if you notice some cracks or rips near the water line, it means it is time to replace the liner as you cannot repair it. However, if the liner tends to have a small leak that does not mean the entire liner needs replacement. Leaks are common in old liners and can be fixed with a liner patch kit.
Water Loss
If you were wondering if all cracks and rips are located near the water line, you were wrong. Cracks and rips can exist below the water surface as well and they are even more difficult to spot. That is why it is important that you keep note of the water level. If the pool is losing water, it means something is wrong. In most cases, the liner comes out to be the culprit, especially if your liner is more than 10 years old.
If you think that there is water leakage, try a simple test. Place a water bucket at the steps of the pool and make sure to keep the water level in the bucket the same as the pool water level. The water in the bucket and the pool will evaporate at the same rate. This will show you if the pool is losing water due to another reason.
Do not panic if you find out there is a link. This is fairly common in old pools and can be easily fixed. The hard part is determining whether the pool is losing water and where the leak is.
Fading Or Staining
Fading or shading is another way to determine if your pool liner needs replacement. Although pool liners are designed to withstand UV rays but with time, they will lose their original finish. The color fading of your pool liner means that it is turning brittle. This should tell you that you are nearing replacement. Sooner or later, the liner will begin tearing and cracking.
Stretching And Wrinkles
Sometimes, liners begin to stretch and develop wrinkles. This is more common in places with groundwater issues. So, when the liner is installed, it will begin stretching. As a result, wrinkles are formed and the liner turns brittle with time. If you notice that the liner is beginning to slip out of the top crack of the pool, you can try putting it back in.
However, you will need to heat the liner first so that you can make it more pliable and put it back into its place. If you are not able to do so or it keeps popping out, you will need to replace the liner soon.
How To Extend The Life Of Pool Liner?
To extend the life of the swimming pool liner, you will need to keep the pool balanced with the recommended water level. Furthermore, you should use the right-sized liner as stretching can impact its lifespan. Most pool companies tend to purchase liners based on rough estimates and end up stretching them which causes issues down the road.
And finally, you should immediately fix any small leaks or cracks as soon as you spot them. This will prevent the cracks and tears from growing to the point where you will be needing an entirely new replacement.
Conclusion
Replacing a pool liner is not as difficult as maintaining it. However, following the tips mentioned above, you will not only be able to look after it but also increase its lifespan. And above all, get the help of pool contractors Long Island to make sure your pool gets properly serviced annually to help detect and fix any issues beforehand.
