It’s no shock (pun intended) that chemicals and the sun are often the cause of fading and discoloration on your vinyl pool liner. While slight fading is common and occurs gradually over time, harsh sun and chemical exposure can cause your liner to fade prematurely. Thankfully, there are some things pool owners can do to prevent fading and protect their liner to keep it looking like new for as long as possible. Check out our tips to prevent your pool liner from fading below:
1. Use a swimming pool cover.
Pool covers help protect your liner from the sun’s harmful UV rays. They also keep dirt, debris, and pests out of your pool, so you can use fewer chemicals and spend less time cleaning the pool. It’s a win-win!
2. Update your landscaping and design around the pool.
Buildings, trees, and other natural elements can block the pool liner from direct sunlight. Consider those factors when first deciding on a location for your pool. If your pool is in a particularly sunny area, consider planning some large shrubs, installing a tall fence, adding an awning, or building a shed to shield the pool from sunlight.
3. Use natural cleaners.
Natural and organic alternatives, like vinegar and organic dish soap, can help clean your liner while minimizing chemicals that can cause fading over time. Of course, follow manufacturer instructions and test natural cleaners on a small area of your liner beforehand.
4. Balance the water chemistry.
Check your water chemistry often to make sure your water is properly balanced. You should test your water at least once a week. The more you use your pool, the more often you should test. Keeping the water chemistry balanced will help prevent accidental fading or damage from overusing chemicals and prevent stains from algae growth caused by overusing chemicals.
5. Use caution when shocking, closing, and opening your pool.
Chemicals are most concentrated when you first open and close it. Make sure you follow all instructions, avoid direct contact with the liner, and properly circulate the water to avoid issues. If you’re in the Chicago area, AAA Liner Replacements can handle winterizing your swimming pool for you to avoid any mishaps and save you time!
6. Use the recommended chemical levels.
Always use the minimum amount of chemicals possible to achieve proper levels. Read and follow all instructions when using the chemicals, pay attention to expiration dates, and consult with a pool expert if it doesn’t seem to be working correctly.
7. Don’t cover the pool after adding chemicals.
Leave your pool uncovered for at least 24 hours after adding chlorine and other chemicals. This allows the chemicals to properly dissipate into the air rather than getting trapped in a closed environment under the pool cover.
8. Avoid using chlorine floaters.
Chlorine floaters have been known to rest on the vinyl or spill, which can cause bleaching or fading due to the high chlorine concentration in a particular spot.
9. Opt for a light-colored pool liner.
When purchasing a new pool liner, consider a light-colored liner. Light colors tend to resist fading for a longer period of time.
10. Pre-dissolve pool shock.
Always pre-dissolve pool shock in a bucket and pour slowly around the edge of the pool. That keeps the concentrated chemicals from bleaching your liner.
The best way to prevent your pool liner from fading and bleaching is regular pool maintenance, and these tips will help you do just that. If it’s time to replace your faded or bleached liner, the pool experts at AAA Liner Replacements are happy to help! We provide liner installations and repairs in Chicago, Illinois, and the surrounding area.