How much does it cost to replace the pool liner? (2023)

• Typical range:1.000 bis 5.000 US-Dollar
• National Average:$2.327

Pool liners are an important part ofunearthlyAndunderground poolsthat are not made of waterproof materials such as fiberglass, concrete or injection molding. A liner ensures that the water stays in the pool and prevents mold growth. A pool liner can buckle and tear with age, which can lead to leaks. AccordinglyInputAndHomeAdvisor,Pool liner replacement can range from $1,000 to $5,000, with homeowners spending an average of $2,327. If a liner needs a simple patch, it can be as little as $350 or as high as $5,000 for a full replacement. Swimming pool liners are usually made from vinyl, but fiberglass liners are another option, although more difficult to reproduce. Some important factors that affect the cost of pool liner replacement are whether the pool is above ground or in-ground, the size of the pool, and the thickness of the pool liner material. Here we examine the factors involved in calculating the cost of pool liner replacement, telltale signs of when a pool liner needs replacing, and key questions to ask a pool liner replacement professional.

Factors when calculating the cost of pool liner replacement

How much does a new pool liner cost? That depends on several factors. Prices may vary from the national average due to liner material thickness and design, labor costs, the cost of draining and refilling the pool, geographic location, time of year, and expenseType, size and shape of the pool.

Pool type

When estimating the cost of a new pool liner, it's important to note that the price differences between above ground pools and inground pools can be significant. Above ground pool liner costs range from $100 to $600 for materials plus $250 to $800 for installation. Inground pool liners range from $700 to $1,500 for materials, with installation costs ranging from $1,000 to $2,500. These prices may vary depending on the thickness of the liner material and the size and shape of the pool.

Pool size and shape

Replacing a liner in a larger pool will cost more than a smaller pool. Pool liner replacement costs are typically less for standard oval or rectangular shape pools than for kidney or L-shape pools.

Liner-Typ

Above ground vinyl pool liners usually come in three different types:

• Overlapping liners.Overlapping liners are typically the least expensive liner option and are the easiest to install. This type of liner is draped over the entire pool and held in place with clips. Overlapping liners rarely last as long as other liner options.
• Unibead-Liner.This versatile liner option creates a seamless look. It attaches to the top of the pool wall with a J hook.
• pearl linings.These liners have a groove that snaps into a track along the top of the pool wall. These liners are considered easy to replace and repair.

Lining thickness and design

Pool liners are measured in mils. A mil is not a millimeter as the name might suggest; 1 mil equals 1/1000 inch. A standard pool liner is 20 mils thick and typically lasts 10 to 12 years. It is recommended to use a 28mm thick pool liner for pools that receive heavy use. A thicker liner can cost $300-$400 more but will last much longer than a thinner option. A thicker pool liner is less likely to tear or puncture and can mask an uneven pool floor. The cost of replacing vinyl pool liner is also directly affected by the design of the liner. A solid color liner is usually cheaper than a liner with a patterned design. Darker colors are also more difficult and expensive to repair.

Work

Some pool companies will provide an estimate that includes the cost of labor and materials with the total replacement cost. If they bill for the work separately, it can range from $30 to $50 an hour. The average labor cost to replace an inground pool liner ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, and the labor cost to install an above ground pool liner ranges from $250 to $800.

emptying and refilling

In order to replace a pool liner, the pool must first be emptied. Having a professional drain the pool can cost anywhere from $500 to $700. If city water is used to fill the pool, it can average from $60 to $120.

Geographical location

Another important factor affecting the cost of vinyl pool liner replacement is geographic location. The price of liners, materials and labor is usually more expensive in densely populated urban or suburban areas than in more rural areas.

season

Pool professionals experience their busiest times during the spring and summer months, and they can charge more for their services during these times. Homeowners should also expect to wait longer for pool liner replacement during the busy months. In order to get more business in their slower months, pool pros can charge significantly less during these times.

Additional Costs and Considerations

When budgeting for the cost of pool liner replacement, it's important to understand all of the additional costs and considerations that may affect the overall price. This may include whether the pool liner needs to be replaced or whether a repair will fix the problem.

Repair vs Exchange

Hiring a professional to repair a vinyl pool liner can vary in price depending on the extent of the damage, pool type, materials, and labor involved. The average price for repairs can range from $100 to $350, or up to $1,700 for more extensive repairs. For minor repairs, homeowners can also opt for DIY patch kits, which cost between $20 and $50. Some pool liners can be repaired instead of replaced. Here are some of the most common pool liner repairs and the average cost of each.

• leaks.Depending on the severity of the leak, a repair can cost as much as $2,500. When the repair price is so high, many homeowners choose to replace the liner.
  Cracks, snags and holes. Patching holes can cost anywhere from $100 to $500.
• Fold.Pool liner wrinkles often occur due to improper installation, extreme temperatures, improper chemical balance, or a sudden drop in water level. Wrinkles can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 to repair, but if they are significant, the liner may need to be reinstalled.
• sun damage.A pool liner can be damaged by UV rays and temperatures above 80 degrees. To protect yourself from sun damage, cover the pool during the day when not in use. It can cost around $530 per 150 feet to repair sun damage above the waterline.
• bulges.Winter freeze-thaw cycles of groundwater and sub-soil shifting can cause bulging in the pool liner. Some ways to repair a bulging liner are to pump out the water behind the bulge or drain the pool and cut out the bulging portion of the liner. If there are significant bowing problems, the liner may need to be replaced.
• bead replacement.If a bead cannot be slid back into place in the track, a new bead will cost anywhere from $130 to $300.
• ground damage.Repairing bottom damage to an above ground pool is an extensive process. The pool will need to be drained and a professional will need to determine if the leak is coming from the liner or the pool structure. Once the leak is located, the price depends on the cause of the problem.

Types of pool liners

How much does a pool liner cost? The cost of replacing the above and below ground pool liner is affected by the type of liner used for the pool as well as the type of pool.

Vinyl

Above ground vinyl pool liners typically range in price from $100 to $600, with installation costs averaging from $250 to $800. For asunken pool,A vinyl replacement will cost between $700 and $1,500 for materials and an additional $1,000 to $2,500 for installation.

Fiberglass

An alternative to vinyl pool liner, fiberglass is durable, long-lasting and resists mold and mildew growth. Depending on the shape and size of the pool, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $1,400 to $4,800 for a fiberglass liner. Minor repairs to a fiberglass liner can average around $650.

Another possibility isInstall a fiberglass pool, although these come with higher installation costs than a vinyl-lined inground pool. Fiberglass pools use less electricity and can even increase a home's resale value.

Do I need a pool liner replacement?

Pool liners typically last 5 to 10 years, some even 15 to 20 years depending on use and usagemaintenance. Sometimes a repair is the best bet to extend the life of the liner, but there are telltale signs when a liner needs to be replaced. If homeowners notice any of the following problems with a pool liner, there is a good chance that a new liner is needed. Waiting too long to replace a pool liner can result in costly damage to the pool floor and walls, as well as deck deterioration from water erosion.

Leaking pool

Minor leaks can usually be repaired, but serious leaks can damage the bottom of the pool, which can lead to cracks. A cracked underbody needs to be replaced. Leaks can also cause the metal walls to rust, compromising the pool's structural integrity.

Dry or brittle liner

As a pool liner ages, it can become brittle and tear. Newer liners can be easily repaired, but when the material is dry and fragile it becomes difficult to repair and a new liner is the only option.

Large holes or tears

Large holes or tears in the soft vinyl material are more difficult to repair than smaller ones. If the hole is too big to repair, a complete pool liner replacement will be required.

chemical damage

The wrong chemical pH in the water can cause the pool liner to wrinkle and break faster than usual, resulting in the liner needing to be replaced sooner than expected.

stains or discoloration

Spotting or discoloration of a pool liner occurs when exposed to harmful UV rays and when pool chemicals are not properly balanced. Algal growth and rust can also discolor and stain the liner and are difficult to remove. When this happens, some homeowners choose to replace the liner for aesthetic reasons.

loss of form

As a pool liner ages, it can stretch and lose its shape. Bumps, wrinkles and the liner jumping out of its track can occur when the liner is stretched. If the liner keeps getting off track, water can leak out from behind the liner and cause problems with the pool structure.

Improper installation

An improperly installed pool liner can wrinkle or damage the bead tracks. If the liner isn't properly seated on the floor and walls, it can tear and cause major damage.

Pool liner replacement: DIY vs hiring a professional

If a homeowner has experience repairing pool liners, or if it's a quick repair above the waterline, a DIY repair may be the way to go. Keep in mind that incorrect liner installation can result in wrinkles and tears that will cost even more money to repair or replace. While hiring a pool professional to install a pool liner is more expensive than a DIY project, remember that a professional has the experience to properly install a liner. Some pool liner companies will also void the warranty if installed as a DIY project. If you are unsure of the exact problem, lack the experience, or need a complete liner replacement, hire a professional. A professional knows how to deal with any issues that arise during the installation process and can keep the pool looking like new.

This will save you money on pool liner replacement costs

Budgeting the cost of replacing pool liner can be difficult, and the additional fees associated with the project can quickly add up. Here are a few ways to save money without compromising on quality.

• Get multiple quotes.Get at least three quotes from reputable pool professionals in your area.
• Choose a plain liner.A liner with a patterned design or a deep color is much more expensive than a traditional sky blue liner.
• Be flexible.Pool companies are busiest in the spring and early summer months. If you can schedule a pool liner replacement during their slow time, you may be able to save money.
• Be proactive.Cover pool when not in use, keep chemical levels balanced and repair small cracks as soon as possible.Routinewartungcan prevent big problems.
• Get a quality liner. While this results in a higher initial cost, a quality liner will last longer and be more tear resistant.
• Establish a regular cleaning routine.Removing debris and cleaning the pool regularly to remove sunscreen residue and algae build-up can extend the life of the pool liner.

Questions about replacing the pool liner

Asking a pool professional the right questions about replacing pool liner can minimize misunderstandings and help homeowners find the right professional for the job. Here are some questions to ask your pool professional.

• How many years have you been in business?
• How much does it cost to replace a pool liner?
• Are you insured?
• Can you provide references?
• Does the estimate include working hours?
• How long does it take to install the pool liner?
• Who installs the liner?
• Can the existing liner be repaired?
• Are you a member of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP)?
• Do you have professional indemnity insurance?
• What kind of guarantee do you offer on your work?

frequently asked Questions

The process of replacing a pool liner can lead to several questions. Here are some commonly asked pool liner replacement questions to help homeowners find the best professional for the job.

Q. How long does a pool liner last?

Pool liners typically last between 5 and 10 years, although some can last 15 to 20 years.

Q. What is the most popular pool liner color?

A deep blue liner is the most popular, although light blue is another popular option as it doesn't fade as quickly.

Q. Is a lighter or darker vinyl color better for a pool liner?

One isn't necessarily better than the other, and the choice comes down to preference. Some benefits of a darker color are that it hides imperfections and dirt, absorbs heat better, and can save on energy bills. A lighter liner color can result in a cooler water temperature, create a beach vibe and can be printed with a darker pattern for more contrast.

Q. Why does my pool liner keep slipping?

Swimming pool liners can slip when the bead track opens, which can happen with water pressure or an aging liner.

Q. Can I put a new pool liner over an old one?

It is not recommended to put a new liner over an old one as this can cause further problems. Holes and tears in the old liner can cause structural damage to the pool if water gets between the two layers. As it is common practice to refinish the pool floor when replacing the liner, this is not possible if the old liner is left in place.

Sources:Input,HomeAdvisor,HomeGuide,YardSharing