A pool liner is a waterproof PVC membrane that covers the walls of your pool to guarantee its watertightness and facilitate daily maintenance. Composed of welded PVC sheets, sometimes reinforced with a polyester mesh, it is robust and can have a long lifespan, provided that certain usage guidelines are followed.

Lifespan of a liner

On average, a pool liner has a lifespan of 10 years, but it can last up to 15 or even 18 years if you take good care of it! On the other hand, a neglected liner can deteriorate quickly, especially if it is subjected to repeated chemical treatments, such as chlorine, which can harm its flexibility. Additionally, a pH imbalance in the water or excessive temperature variations can also affect its durability.

Why replace a liner?

• When the liner shows too many discolored areas, if it starts to wrinkle or, even worse, if it cracks in places, this indicates that it is time to replace it. These signs of wear can lead to leakage problems, and in the worst-case scenario, the liner could end up breaking completely! Even a new liner is not immune to accidents: rough play in the pool, pet claws, or overly aggressive cleaning can cause tears or cracks. There are repairs or patches possible, but if the membrane is seriously damaged, you will have to wait without being able to swim until a new coating is installed, which could involve delivery times, especially if it needs to be adapted to special dimensions during peak season.
• You might also choose to change your liner to refresh the appearance of your pool or change the shade of its coating. It is a quick method to transform the look of your pool or adapt it to new landscaping projects you have completed.

When to replace a liner?

The ideal time to change your pool liner is in the spring. A mild and temperate climate, coupled with soil that is not saturated with water, will allow you to drain your pool without too much risk. Installing a new liner ideally requires an outside temperature of 15°C to guarantee optimal elasticity and avoid wrinkles or deformations.

How to select your future liner?

For the liner, you will have a choice between various thicknesses, types, and colors.

• Liner thickness: it is essential for its resistance. The more regularly your pool is used, by many swimmers, children, or at high temperatures, the more sensible it is to opt for a thick liner (generally 0.75 mm for an inground pool and 0.45 mm for an above-ground pool), or even a reinforced liner with a thickness of 1.5 mm which can reach nearly 20 years of durability.
• If your pool has an original shape or atypical dimensions, it is essential to order a custom-made liner.
• Regarding colors, you have a choice among different shades of blue, as well as grays, beiges, and greens, depending on the desired visual effect, and there are also very decorative printed liners. Note that dark coatings discolor more quickly due to chlorine, while a white liner runs the risk…

of staining at the water line. Also note that if you wish to change the color of your liner often, it is better to choose a thin standard liner (starting from 0.2 mm), which is much more affordable.

• Finally, you can also opt for safety by selecting a non-slip liner to prevent falls and slips, whether for children or clumsy adults!

Pool liner prices

The price of a pool liner varies according to several criteria: the dimensions of the pool obviously, but also the thickness of the chosen coating, the color as well as the finishes. It is important to know that a reinforced liner is more expensive and requires professional installation, while costs for a standard liner range between €15 to €50 per m², not including delivery costs that may be added. Anti-slip or anti-UV treatments can also drive up the price. On average, consider a budget of 1500 euros to cover a standard-sized inground pool and 400 euros for an above-ground pool liner.

How to replace your pool liner?

You have the option to replace the liner yourself, if your pool has a classic shape and you choose a standard liner. You simply need to take the correct measurements, and once the coating is received, drain the pool, remove the fixings, peel off the old liner, and perform a deep cleaning before laying the new liner. You can then fill the pool ensuring that no wrinkles form and put the sealing parts back in place.

If you have doubts about performing these tasks, or if you prefer a reinforced liner or if your pool has an original shape, it is advisable to call in a professional who guarantees a result that meets your expectations.