The liner develops visible defects, such as cracks, tears or wrinkles.
Pool liners are the fearless leaders of every vinyl liner pool. Not only do they command the beauty and attention of everyone in the neighborhood, but they also serve as a vessel to hold tens of thousands of gallons of pool water. Beyond its functional purpose, a vinyl pool liner can influence the entire look and feel of your pool. Choose a color or pattern that fits your unique taste and your swimming pool becomes the focal point of your ultimate backyard sanctuary. Replacing your pool liner provides even more opportunities to express your creativity.
How Often Do Pool Liners Need to Be Replaced?
Vinyl swimming pool liners typically last anywhere from 10 to 15 years from the time of installation, depending on a range of different factors. Variables like water chemistry, sun exposure, frequency of use, and liner thickness can all affect the lifespan of your liner. Knowing the lifespan of your pool liner helps you plan for a smooth replacement and avoid costly repairs down the line. Maintaining the proper water chemistry is vital to increasing the longevity of your vinyl liner.
Cleaning your pool regularly and maintaining a proper water balance can extend the timeline for your vinyl pool liner. Learn more about how to clean your pool and how to balance the water chemistry.
With so many factors at play, it’s not always easy to tell when it’s time to replace an old or damaged liner. So how do you know when your pool liner needs to be replaced? Learn about the warning signs that indicate it’s time to replace your current liner below.
Vinyl Liner | Panama / Royal Prism Liner
How Often to Replace Pool Liners
Although a well-maintained liner can last roughly 10 to 15 years, there are some times when you may have to replace your vinyl liner sooner. If you notice any of these signs, get in touch with a Latham pool professional to confirm if it’s time for a fresh new liner.
Four Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Liner
There are stained, discolored, darkened or faded areas on the liner. While some amount of fading is normal, it may be time to replace your liner if it’s faded to the point that you can no longer determine a pattern.
The liner seems to be stretching out or falling out of the track in areas where you can actually see the pool wall.
The liner may be detaching from the bead. The bead holds the liner in the tracking around the top edge of your pool.
Replacing Your Vinyl Liner
Replacing a vinyl liner on your inground pool gives you the unique opportunity to update your footprint and give your pool a new, fresh look. A replacement vinyl liner lets you customize or upgrade your pool. But you don’t have to wait until it’s time to replace your liner to upgrade your pool. You can get ahead of the curve and replace your pool liner when you want a new look, or simply wait until it’s time to find a new one.
When you replace your vinyl liner, it’s also a great opportunity to consider new features and add-ons for your pool. Maybe you want to add some custom stairs or customizations to make your pool more accessible to older or younger family members. A tanning ledge can offer another way to enter the pool or you can change your steps or railing for younger family members. From vanity changes to accessibility, the possibilities are endless.
Curious how different liner patterns will look in your pool? The Latham Liner Visualizer makes it easy to explore a wide variety of patterns applied to a pool similar to your own.
Vinyl Liner | Blue Seastone
Photo courtesy of Les Services, Canada
How Long Does Replacing a Pool Liner Take?
Replacing an inground pool liner typically takes between 1 to 3 days in the hands of a professional. However, replacement time can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of a pool. For instance, rainy weather can tack on added time to the installation process. Additionally, if you’re adding features – such as a tanning ledge, LED pool lights, or a slide – to a pool alongside a vinyl liner installation, that can prolong the process before your liner is overlaid as the finishing touch.
Working with an experienced pool professional to install a new replacement liner can ensure both your liner — and the process itself – are as smooth as possible! Professional liner installation ensures your liner is properly sized, cut and fit to the exact specifications of your pool. Hiring a professional also helps minimize the risk of damage to your liner during installation, including filling your pool and securing your new liner in place.
New vinyl liner being installed
Photo courtesy of Pool Shark Pool Service
Vinyl Pool Liner Replacement Cost
Worried a pool liner replacement will break the bank? It’s often more affordable than you think! The cost of a vinyl liner replacement varies depending on factors like material, size, and features. But we can help you understand these factors and find a solution that fits your budget. Consider it a beautiful refresh at a fraction of the cost of a complete pool renovation!
Disco Pearl Liner Pattern
Legends / Deep Blue Fusion Liner Pattern
Vintage / Blue Mosaic Liner Pattern
Replacement Vinyl Liner Options & Benefits
Latham offers a wide assortment of vinyl liners for pools of any size, shape or style, from classic oval and rectangle pools to kidney, lagoon and countless other layouts. Whether your swimming pool is large, small, geometric, rounded or even asymmetrical, we have the perfect look to complete the design of your dreams this summer.
Can’t decide? Use our visualizer application to test out custom creations, or explore our full range of liner patterns, colors and textures. And don’t forget — replacing your liner is the perfect time to add value (and boost the fun!) by making stylish upgrades like tanning ledges, safety covers and accessibility-improving steps or benches.
What Are the Best Pool Liners?
One important variable to consider is the thickness of the liner, which is expressed in units called “mils” that represent thousandths of an inch. Liners commonly range from 20 mil (0.020 inches) up to 27, 28 and even 30 mils thick. Liner thickness is referred to as a “gauge” in some areas, but it’s important to note that gauge and mils are not equivalent units. For example, a liner could be described as 30 gauge while the thickness could be measured at 27 mil (0.027 inches). When speaking with a dealer about liner thickness, make sure to clarify whether you are talking about gauges or mils to ensure proper measurement.
Different pool liners have pros and cons that make them suitable for different types of pools. Thicker liners have higher up-front costs because they are heavier and can be more difficult to install. Thinner liners, like 20 mil liners, are lighter and can be more cost-effective and easier to install.
Ultimately, the best liner thickness for your pool depends on your budget and priorities. Regardless of thickness, all Latham liners are built to perform and come with the same warranty.
Vinyl Liner | Bali / Blue Granite Liner
![Nighttime backyard with a Latham pool liner display [highlighting its features].](https://www.lathampool.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2023/05/6_What-Are-the-Best-Pool-Liners@2x-1024x827.png)
Dive Deeper: Light vs. Dark vs. Medium Pool Liners
The color of your pool liner goes beyond aesthetics – it impacts how you experience your swim! Here’s a quick guide to choosing the perfect shade:
Warm Water Warriors: Looking to extend your swim season in cooler climates? Darker liners (navy, bold blue) absorb heat, making the water feel warmer.
Beat the Heat: Soaking up the sun in a hot climate? Light blue or aqua liners reflect heat, keeping your pool refreshingly cool.
Cleanliness Champions: Darker liners hide dirt and debris better, while lighter liners resist fading for a longer lifespan. Stuck in the middle? Medium shades offer a happy medium!
Learn more about choosing the perfect vinyl liner pool color, or try out our Liner Visualizer tool to explore how different patterns look during the day or night.
Vinyl Liner | Disco Pearl
Photo courtesy of Betz Pools Limited, Canada
Unleash Your Backyard Oasis: Reimagine Your Pool with a New Liner
Replacing your vinyl liner isn’t just about maintenance, it’s a chance to transform your backyard! Latham’s modular system offers endless possibilities:
- Custom Shapes: Design a pool that perfectly complements your space and style, whether it’s a classic rectangle or a freeform paradise.
- Endless Options: From unique wall styles to a stunning array of liner patterns, personalize your pool to match your vision.
- Seamless Upgrades: Revamp your pool’s functionality while replacing your liner. Consider adding tanning ledges, safety features, or custom steps for easy access.
Ready to dive in? Explore the possibilities and create your dream backyard oasis!
Of course, you don’t need to wait for your liner to become weathered or damaged before you replace it. In fact, installing a new liner in an older swimming pool is a great, cost-efficient way to completely upgrade the look of your pool, giving your entire yard a fresh breath of life — and an added boost of curb appeal. It’s also a relatively quick process that lets you enjoy the look and feel of a brand new pool sooner.
Your pool liner is more than just protection – it’s the heart of your backyard oasis. But over time, even the most well-maintained liners can show wear. Here’s why a replacement might be perfect for you:
- Refresh Your Look: Tired of the same old pool? A new liner instantly transforms your space with a wide variety of patterns, colors and styles.
- Boost Curb Appeal: Increase your home’s value and make a lasting impression with a beautiful new pool liner.
- Upgrade Functionality: Replacing your liner is a great opportunity to add features like tanning ledges, custom steps, or safety covers for a more enjoyable pool experience.
Our liners are built to last, giving your pool a look you’ll love for years to come. Ready to reimagine your backyard paradise? Explore the possibilities with Latham’s designer liners!
While online resources can provide a glimpse into pool liner installation, it’s a specialized task best left to the professionals. Partnering with an independent builder is the smarter choice. We can refer you to builders in your area. Just fill out our quick form to Speak to a Builder. We’ll match you to independent pool builders in your area with expertise that aligns with your project needs.
Here’s why working with a professional pool builder makes all the difference:
- Expert Installation: Pool professionals are extensively trained and use specialized tools for precise liner cuts, ensuring a perfect fit for any pool shape or size. This minimizes the risk of leaks or tears.
- Code Compliance: Experienced builders are knowledgeable about state and local pool laws. They’ll also ensure you have the correct permits required so that your pool project is compliant with all applicable building codes.
- Warranty Protection: DIY installations can potentially void your warranty. Play it safe with professional installation.
Relax and enjoy! Let Latham handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on what truly matters – unwinding in your beautiful new pool!
It might seem tempting to save time by installing your new liner on top of the old one, but we strongly advise against it. Here’s why:
- Proper Installation Matters: For optimal results, the pool bottom needs to be prepped and a liner pad installed before laying down the new liner.
- The Easier, More Efficient Way: Following the standard method of removing the old liner first is actually faster and more cost-effective in the long run.
Important Note: Always consult your pool dealer before draining your vinyl liner pool. They can advise you on the safest way to proceed to avoid any potential risks.
Learn More About Replacement Vinyl Liners
Latham is the #1 replacement liner manufacturer in the North American residential inground swimming pool market, a reputation that’s built on more than 65 years of dedicated service and commitment to excellence. Our vinyl liners are available in a wide range of styles that all come with built-in UltraSeam technology, making seams invisible and increasing the strength of your liner. Request more information to learn more about replacement liners today!
