Vinyl Swimming Pool Construction
The only type of pool that offers the ease of installation similar to fiberglass – and the customization edge of gunite – is the vinyl liner pool.
Vinyl liner pools are super budget-friendly, and building it takes no longer than 4-8 weeks. While a vast majority of these pools are rectangular, you have unlimited options in designs, shapes, and sizes.
Choosing to build vinyl swimming pools means installing a custom-made vinyl liner sheet onto a pool wall structure and erecting it using galvanized steel or thermoplastic panels. With the added flexibility offered by steel walls, a vinyl pool is an excellent addition to your backyard.
Premier Pools & Spas is a nationwide pool building company that has been in the business of turning backyard dreams into reality since 1988. Our excellence in building vinyl, fiberglass, and gunite pools and the backing of a licensed and well-qualified team has helped us stay among the top 10 positions for numerous years.
The Vinyl Pool Building Process
A vinyl pool floor rests on a sand or cement bottom, whereas the walls are supported around the pool perimeter from behind. This is so that it does not bow out or buckle against the water.
Phase 1. Excavation: We excavate the site, remove the dirt, and verify the pool elevation.
Phase 2. Pool Wall Panels: The pool walls are installed with galvanized steel, wood, concrete, or polymer material.
Phase 3. Concrete and Plumbing: We run the plumbing lines and pour concrete footing (about eight inches deep) around the pool.
Phase 4. Pump and Filter: The main drains, plumbing, and pool equipment are set up.
Phase 5. Base and Backfill: We trowel the base material mix and lay down the pool bottom over the exposed earth on which the liner rests. Next, we install the coping and backfill the pool.
Phase 6. Vinyl Liner Installation: The liner bead is inserted into the wall panel-mounted track, upon which it snaps into place. The vinyl liner is vacuumed carefully to prevent air leaks.
Phase 7. Filling the Pool: Water is filled, and the automatic pool cover is installed.
Phase 8. Deck Installation: Concrete is poured around the pool for stamped or stone patio. We then install the permanent fence and pool landscaping.
Phase 9. Water Chemistry: Before we start your pool, we check and balance the pool water chemistry and then run the filtration system.
Advantages of Vinyl Swimming Pools
Here are some insights to help you understand why vinyl is the right choice to build your backyard dream retreat.
Smooth, Algae-Resistant Surface
A vinyl pool interior surface is smooth all over, except where it is tucked under the coping and where two pieces of material meet. The liner, being non-porous, resists algae growth.
Choice of Customization
Vinyl swimming pools are not restricted to standard molds, like fiberglass. You can fit a geometric pool into your backyard perimeter, a beautiful freeform design like a tropical beach look, or even an irregular natural water reserve.
No Cracking or Need for Re-plastering
Since the materials involved in building a vinyl pool are all very flexible, the pool does not crack. Likewise, you do not need to re-plaster or repaint it. The liners, however, need to be replaced around every seven to ten years.
Low Initial Costs
Building a vinyl liner pool is a pocket-friendly project; even the custom designs cost less than gunite or fiberglass pools. The installation completes much faster than concrete, and when the liner is replaced, you’ll get a pool that looks brand new.
Advancements in Technology
With technological development, a variety of vinyl liners have emerged in the industry, offering a wide array of colors, shapes, and patterns. Even if you build a pool for the sake of practicality, there is no limitation on creating dramatic visual effects.
The vinyl liner is much less forgiving when compared to its counterparts. Stay within the recommended levels and never mix chemicals or add them directly.
Quick Facts about Vinyl Pool Care
- pH: between 7.2 and 7.6
- Cyanuric acid: from 30 to 100 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: more than 200-300 ppm
- Chlorine: from 1.0 to 3.0 ppm
- Total Alkalinity: from 80 to 150 ppm
What Else to Consider When Buying a Vinyl Liner Pool
Liner Replacements
Vinyl swimming pools need regular maintenance and inspections to stay in shape. Upon that, the pool may require five to six replacements in its lifetime. If you happen to find small tears, you can fix it quickly using patching glue.
Wrinkles with Time
In high water table areas, the liner seems to be floating when there is excess groundwater. When the groundwater recedes, it creates lines, and removing them is a time-consuming process. Keep in mind: You cannot drain the pool entirely without the liner becoming brittle.
Less Suitable for Saltwater Pools
Although excessive use of chlorine fades the vinyl liner over time, having a saltwater pool can increase its lifespan. However, saltwater can corrode metal components.
Algae in Submerged Areas
Chemicals are added to the pool water to maintain the pH balance. Any chemical imbalance or residual debris can cause algae to grow, and stains may form on the walls or certain submerged areas like the plastic pool steps.
Durable Only with the Right Thickness
The vinyl liner thickness directly impacts the pool’s longevity, and hence, you should get a thicker material that is puncture and tear-resistant. Unlike non-embossed liners that have a uniform thickness, embossed ones have an uneven thickness and feel squishier.
Have a Quick Chat with Vinyl Pool Building Experts at Premier Pools & Spas and Get a Free Estimate
Learn more on how to build spectacular vinyl swimming pools with a variety of features like waterfalls, lighting effects, and stylish decking. Call Premier Pools & Spas today to get a free consultation and estimate from our vinyl specialists in your location.