Call Now...
Waved Line

Pool Liner Frequently Asked Questions

Wave Divider Line

As leading pool experts in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, we get a lot of questions about vinyl pool liners. We’ve compiled a few of the most common ones to help you learn more about your liner and make the right decision for your pool and backyard.

How do I measure my swimming pool for a liner?
What is the difference between an overlap pool liner and a beaded pool liner?
How thick of a pool liner do I need? Is a thicker pool liner better?
What color pool liner is best?
Is a dark or light pool liner better?
Can I install my own pool liner?
When should I install my pool liner?
How long do vinyl pool liners last?
Can pool liners be repaired?
What are the most common pool liner issues?

How do I measure my swimming pool for a liner?

Properly measuring your pool is key to getting the right size pool liner. To measure your swimming pool for a liner, think of your pool like a clock. Measure from 12-6 and 9-3. You’ll want to measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the pool wall to account for any bowed walls or irregularities. To measure your pool’s depth, measure from the deepest point of the pool on the floor to the top of the inside of the pool wall.

What is the difference between an overlap pool liner and a beaded pool liner?

The main difference between overlap and beaded pool liners is how they’re attached. Overlap pool liners go over the side of your pool wall and are held on by coping strips. Above ground beaded liners are fed into a bead receiver installed on the inside of your pool wall.

How thick of a pool liner do I need? Is a thicker pool liner better?

An average pool liner thickness is 20 mil. This thickness works just fine for most pool owners and provides an affordable option that lasts for years. That being said, a thicker pool liner will generally be more resistant to punctures, harsh water conditions, and sun exposure. However, they’re also more expensive and not as common.

What color pool liner is best?

There’s really no right or wrong answer for this question as it depends a lot on personal preference. Many pool liners are varying shades of blue, but there’s also plenty of brown, gray, and black liners, as well as multi-colored patterns and designs. When picking a liner, you’ll want to consider what aesthetic goes well with your backyard and patio area, as well as other factors, such as landscaping and buildings, that can reflect and cause your liner to look different once it’s in the water.

Is a dark or light pool liner better?

Again, this question is more a matter of personal preference, but we’ll take a look at both options. Darker pool liners absorb sunlight (like a dark shirt on a hot day), so they can help your pool warmer. They also tend to hide debris more easily than some lighter-colored liners, but discoloration from sun and chemicals may be more noticeable. On the flip side, light-colored pool liners absorb less sunlight and tend to resist discoloration and fading a little more. However, dirt and debris are probably going to be more noticeable.

Again, you might also want to consider external factors, such as how shady your yard is, to help determine whether a light or dark liner might look better in your pool.

Can I install my own pool liner?

Sure. Many people install their own pool liners. However, the installation process can be time-consuming and tricky, especially for those that are inexperienced. If you want to tackle the installation yourself, follow all instructions from the manufacturer and consult with a pool professional. When installing the liner yourself, you assume the risk of potential damage from leaks, tears, etc.

If you want to make things easy, you can have an expert install the liner for you quickly and efficiently. If you’re in the Chicago area, we’d be happy to handle your pool liner installation and take the hassle off your to-do list.

When should I install my pool liner?

Whether you’re installing a new liner yourself, working with our team, or working with another pool specialist, you’ll want to wait until the weather is warm and sunny — 80 degrees or hotter is best. Here in Illinois, this is typically in late May or early June. Generally, a day where you can start early in the day and keep an eye on the pool is ideal.

How long do vinyl pool liners last?>How long do vinyl pool liners last?

A typical 20 mil liner will last 10-12 years. However, factors such as proper liner installation, ongoing pool maintenance, and frequency of use can impact the longevity of your liner.

Can pool liners be repaired?

Sometimes! It depends on a number of factors, including the severity and placement of the damage and the age of your pool liner. Here are AAA Liner Replacements, we offer pool liner repairs around the Chicago area, which can save you money on a full liner replacement.

What are the most common pool liner issues?

Some of the most common pool liner issues we see here at AAA Liners are leaks, rips/tears, wrinkles, fading, and discoloration. Many of these issues can be avoided with proper installation and pool maintenance. If you have questions or need pool liner repair services in the Chicago area, our team is here to help.

Have more questions about your pool liner? Contact us!