Is It Time to Replace Your Pool Liner?

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when you should replace the liner for your above ground pool. On average, they last about 6 to 10 years, but it really depends.

If your liner is cracking, tearing, or leaking, it’s time to replace it, no question.
Fading or discoloration from the sun or chemicals? That’s more about looks—if it’s still fine, you might be able to keep it a bit longer and save some cash.

But if you see it wrinkling, stretching, or slipping out of track (especially if your area got groundwater issues), those are signs it’s time for a new one. I’ve been there myself, and trust me, catching these signs early can save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Step-by-Step guide to Replace Above Ground Pool Liners

One of the first decisions you need to make is Do-It-Yourself or hire a professional.

DIY installation can save you money and be a rewarding project, but it requires time, patience, and some level of skill. Professional installation ensures a perfect fit and saves you the hassle, but it comes at an extra cost.

Step 1: Drain the Pool

Use a submersible pump to remove all water from the pool. For the last bit of water, you can cut the old liner at the bottom and lift it to pool the remaining water in one area

Step 2: Remove Old Liner

• For Overlap liners: Remove the screws from the skimmer and return faceplates. You may need to take off the top rails to access the coping strips. Cut the old liner into manageable strips and dispose of it.
• For Beaded liners: Lift the liner from the bead receiver and dispose of it carefully to avoid damaging the track

Step 3: Prepare Base and Pool Wall

• Smooth out the pool floor using flat trowels. If necessary, add new sand to level the base. Installing a liner pad or foam cove can help protect the new liner and provide a softer feel.
• Inspect the walls for rust or damage. You can use duct tape to cover any bolt holes and clean the walls thoroughly.

Step 4: Install New Liner

Unroll the liner inside the pool, centering it properly. Secure it temporarily at four points (North, South, East, West) to ensure even distribution

• For overlap liners, place the liner over the pool walls and secure with coping strips.
• For beaded liners, insert the bead into the receiver track.
• For J-Hook liners, hang the hook over the pool wall.

I strongly recommend having at least one or two people help with this. The liner is extremely heavy, and it’s normal for the pool wall to move during installation.

If you notice air pockets and wrinkles in your pool liner, don’t worry—you can fix it with a vacuum. Just insert the vacuum hose into the skimmer hole, then seal it with duct tape to make it airtight. This trick helps smooth out those wrinkles and gets your liner looking good again

Step 5: Fill the Pool

Begin filling the pool with a garden hose. Monitor the liner to ensure it remains in place, especially if you are using an overlap liner. Remember: Take it easy, as the water level rises, continue to smooth out any wrinkles. Aim to have the liner wrinkle-free by the time the water reaches about one foot deep.

Step 6: Reinstall Accessories

Once the liner is mostly filled and in place, reinstall the skimmer and return fittings. Replace any gaskets to ensure a tight seal, and cut out excess liner material from around these fittings.

Common Installation Issues and Solutions

Improper Ground Leveling

• If the ground beneath the pool is not level, it can cause the liner to shift, tear, or create uneven water levels.
• Solution: Before installation, ensure the ground is thoroughly leveled and compacted. Remove all debris, rocks, and vegetation from the area. Using a compactor to create a solid base is highly recommended. Laying down a layer of fine sand or a foam pad can also help create a smooth surface for the liner.

Liner Wrinkles and Overstretching

• Liners can develop wrinkles if they are not properly positioned or if they are overstretched during installation.
• Solution: When installing the liner, avoid pulling it too tightly. If wrinkles appear, you may need to remove some water and reposition the liner. Using a vacuum to help secure the liner in place while filling the pool can also prevent wrinkles from forming.

Liner Slipping Out of Track

• For beaded liners, the liner may slip out of the bead receiver during installation or while filling.
• Solution: Ensure the bead is correctly seated in the track before filling the pool. If it slips out, you may need to drain some water, reposition the liner, and refill it carefully. Using clamps to hold the liner in place during filling can help prevent this issue.

Cutting the Liner Accidentally

• Liners can be accidentally cut during unpacking or installation, leading to leaks.
• Solution: Use caution when opening the liner packaging and avoid sharp tools near the liner. Always check the area for sharp objects that could damage the liner during installation.

Poor Securing of the Liner

• If the liner is not secured properly at the top edge, it can lead to water seeping underneath, causing instability.
• Solution: For overlap liners, use coping strips to secure the liner over the pool wall. For beaded liners, ensure the bead is fully engaged in the receiver. Check the liner’s position regularly during the filling process to ensure it remains secure.

Weather Conditions

• Installing a liner in cold or damp conditions can lead to material stretching or improper fitting.
• Solution: Aim to install the liner when temperatures are warm (ideally above 80°F) and the weather is dry. This helps the liner maintain its shape and flexibility during installation.