When You Should Replace a Leaking Vinyl Pool Liner

In this era of keeping costs low, you may be wondering whether you should repair the leaking vinyl liner in your pool or you should buy a replacement liner. There are circumstances that may make it necessary for you to replace the liner instead of attempting to repair it. This article discusses some of the factors you should consider to rule out the possibility that the liner can be successfully repaired.

The Location of the Leak

You should replace the vinyl liner of your swimming pool if the leak is located close to a skimmer or return jet. A pool skimmer is the part that sucks water through the pool pump in order to remove debris like leaves from the water. The skimmer traps those particles, and you have to empty it regularly. When your vinyl pool liner is damaged close to a skimmer, any repairs you undertake will not be long lasting. This is because the water action in that area (due to pressure from the pump) will quickly undo any repairs you have done. In such a case, it is wiser to replace the liner with a new one.

The Extent of the Leak

Put on your swimming goggles and inspect the entire vinyl liner in order to identify where the leak is and how extensive it is. If it is a small leak (an inch long, for example) then you may repair that damaged portion of the liner. However, if the damage is extensive (for instance several feet long) then it may not be feasible to repair that leak.

The Age of the Vinyl Liner

All pool accessories have an expected useful lifespan. If your vinyl pool liner is close to the end of its useful life, it may not be wise to repair any leaks you discover in it. For instance, if the manufacturer indicated that the liner would work for ten years and you discover a leak in the eighth year, then it may be better to replace that liner instead of repairing it.

When you find a leak in the vinyl liner of your pool, do not take the first course of action that your mind comes up with. Think about the issues in the discussion above so that you make an informed decision about the way forward. If you are still unsure about how to proceed, consult a pool service specialist  from a company like Jims Pool Care so that you can base your decision on his or her professional opinion.