Vinyl liner pools are typically more popular, in areas like Long Island, compared to other types of in-ground pools. They have a custom made sheet of watertight vinyl within the pool’s structure. The floor under the liner is typically sand or a cement-like material and the walls are usually galvanized steel or thermoplastic supported from behind to prevent outward bulging. The cost of the pool will depend on its size, shape, added extras, etc.
Some Advantages Vinyl Liner Pools
- decking, laminar jets, lighting effects, pool heaters, spas and waterfalls can all be added
- less expensive than pools of fiberglass or concrete
- material is recyclable
- no need for repainting or re-plastering
- treated to discourage algal growth
- unlimited design options, sizes, shapes, colors and patterns
Signs The Vinyl Liner Needs Changing
- Deterioration
Ultraviolet rays, pool chemicals and aging cause vinyl liners to deteriorate over time, leading to cracks and tears. Check for cracks or tears in the corners and around the skimmers, cleaner line, lights and steps. Cracking and tearing of the liner could mean you have the added problem of water loss. The liner probably has a leak or several leaks if the water level drops more than one inch in one week. While leaks sometimes patchable, if the vinyl liner has too many, it will need replacement.
- Stretching
A vinyl liner naturally loses elasticity over time and becomes stretched making replacement necessary. Indications that the liner is stretching include loose fittings around the skimmer and the pump, as well as the liner slipping out of the track and can’t be slipped back into place. A sagging liner could also wrinkle and cause water to drain from the pool.
- Fading or Stains
Pool liners fade in color over time due to exposure to chemicals and sunlight. This fading is often a sign of deterioration. Substantial fading and considerable staining from algae or rust cannot be removed, and so the liner must be replaced.
- Brittleness
Pool liners are usually very elastic in the first five years after installation, then begin to get brittle. This brittleness can result from the deterioration of the liner’s plasticizers as it fades. Once the liner becomes brittle, you can expect it to crack and tear. Brittleness and a change in a pool liner’s texture indicate you should replace it.
Other Reasons To Change The Liner
- increase the aesthetic appeal and value of property up for sale
- get newly acquired property to suit your personal taste and style
- match the pool to remodeling done elsewhere on the property
- keep the pool looking brand new
When Is The Best Time To Change A Vinyl Liner?
The warmth of late Long Island spring and summer make them the best time of year to change a pool liner. At these times the liner has more elastic movement to better line up against the pool walls. The liner will not adhere as well in colder weather.
Depending on thickness, vinyl liners in Long Island can last anywhere from 5 to 12 years. So, while the shell of the pool is good up to fifty years, the liner will require several changes in that time. Trying to repair the liner is perhaps the more worthwhile option if it is less than three years old, but depending on where and how the liner is damaged, replacement may be a necessity. It is therefore a good idea to do regular inspection of your vinyl liner, bearing the above points in mind. To find out more about pools in general, check here.
