Replacing swimming pool liners is an important aspect of pool maintenance. Pool liners not only enhance your pool's aesthetic appeal but also protect the structure of your pool from damage caused by water, dirt and debris. As the liner ages, it may show signs of wear, such as fading, cracking or even leaking. This is where a replacement becomes necessary.
1. Why You Need a Pool Liner Replacement
- Wear and Tear: Over time, UV rays chemicals and general pool use can cause the liner to deteriorate, leading to potential leaks and water loss.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Faded or damaged liners can make your pool look old and uninviting. A new liner will restore its vibrant look and bring a fresh aesthetic to your outdoor or indoor swimming pool.
- Prevent Further Damage: A damaged liner can lead to structural problems with your pool, including cracking or rusting of the pool shell. Replacing the liner will help prevent these issues.
2. Types of Pool Liners Available
- Above-Ground Pool Liners: These are designed for round, oval or rectangular above-ground pools and come in various designs and thicknesses. They are available in both overlap and beaded options. Thames Pool Care only replace above-ground liners on some wooden swimming pools.
- In-Ground Pool Liners: These are custom-made to fit a variety of pool shapes and sizes, including traditional and freeform designs. These days, they’re often made from reinforced vinyl and come in many textures and colours. Thames Pool Care offers a discount on replacement liners to all Lincoln Pools' customers, who used to be based in Stokenchurch.
- Material Options: Bag liners are typically made from vinyl, which is durable, easy to clean and resistant to stains. Vinyl liners are the most common choice for both above-ground and in-ground pools. Reinforced membranes or on-site liners are incredibly durable, and although three times the price, they really do last 3-5 times as long! Thames Pool Care have installed on-site liners and traditional bag liners for nearly 30 years.
3. The Replacement Process and consideration
- Size and Shape: You need to measure your pool accurately to replace your pool liner, this includes its dimensions and depth, to ensure the liner fits properly. Thames Pool Care fully incorporates this into our scope of work during replacement.
- Thickness: Liners come in different thicknesses, usually ranging from 0.5mm to 75 mm. Thicker liners tend to be more durable and last longer. The 1.5mm, 2mm & 3mm on-site lined systems are often under warranty for 10 -15 years and last for 20+ years.
- Design and Colour: From traditional blue patterns to more modern and customised options, the colour and design you choose will influence the overall look of your pool. It truly is amazing how life like the latest Aquaflex & Certikin Liner Systems sit well in the UK and blend really well in leafy Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire.
- Durability: Look for liners with UV protection, stain resistance and resistance to punctures and tears for longer-lasting performance. Having your swimming pool professionally maintained and/or the installation of dosing system, will help ensure the water balance is kept, ensuring the longevity of the pool liner and finish. Thames Pool Care offers all of these ongoing services.
4. Benefits of Replacement
- Enhanced Safety: A properly fitted, smooth liner helps to eliminate any potential hazards such as rough patches or exposed pool walls that could cause injury.
- Improved Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained liner can help maintain water temperature, keeping your pool warmer for longer. Often old liners may leak diluting chemicals and increasing heating costs.
- Boosted Property Value: A fresh, new pool liner can enhance the appearance of your swimming pool and increase your property’s value, making it more appealing to potential buyers. A fresh replacement is beneficial if you are selling or moving house, it is like a fresh lick of paint ahead of the sale. You will help negate the perceived value of refreshing a swimming pool's look or the cost of refurbishing. Thames Pool Care has had varying meetings with local estate agents in Bucks & Berkshire, including Hamptons, Savills & Micheal Graham, who understand the importance of keeping the house in order when it comes to valuation.
5. Installation Services
- Professional Installation: Replacing a pool liner is a detailed process that requires skill and experience. Professional installation ensures the liner is correctly fitted to avoid future issues like wrinkles, leaks or sagging. Base preparation and inspection, plus pipework testing is carried out by Thames Pool Care in accordance with the SPATA standards. Each line is tested for 30mins to 20psi and reported upon.
- DIY Options: If you are handy and experienced you can purchase DIY liner replacement kits. However, for most homeowners, professional installation is recommended to ensure a perfect fit and to avoid potential complications. Thames Pool Care advise against this as it very rarely goes well.
6. Warranty and Maintenance
- Warranty: Most pool liners come with a warranty, ranging from 10 years to a lifetime, depending on the manufacturer and the liner material. Be sure to ask about the warranty when making a purchase. More importantly within the on-site system, ascertain who is installing the liner. From late 2024, Thames Pool Care started using the only two mainstream installers holding the European accreditation and back the installation warranty.
- Maintenance Tips: To extend the life of your new pool liner, maintain proper water chemistry, regularly clean the pool and inspect for any signs of damage or wear. Upon completion, Thames Pool Care provides specific instructions to ensure you are informed about how to look after your swimming pool for years to come. Of course, we can take care of this element on your behalf, if required.
7. Cost Considerations
- Budget-Friendly Options: While pool liners come in a wide range of prices, you should consider cost implications versus longevity and benefits. A quality liner might have a higher initial cost but save money in the long run due to its durability. Equally, understanding your property plan and future with the property is key; Thames Pool Care will happily advise on this during the survey.
- Professional Installation: Installation costs should be factored in when budgeting for your pool liner replacement. Professional installation is charged based on the size and complexity of the pool. In the Berkshire and Buckinghamshire area and alongside the Thames, there are many complexities to consider, e.g. water table, ground pressures etc.
In Summary:
A pool liner replacement is a smart investment for aesthetic and functional reasons. By offering a variety of liners that suit different pool types, styles and budgets, we can meet the needs of any swimming pool owner. Thames Pool Care offer the latest liner membranes from Aquaflex SCP & Certikin. Contact us now and let us guide you and your family through the replacement process today.
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