Swimming pools are an integral part of many backyards. If you have a backyard swimming pool, you know exactly how enjoyable they can be on a hot summer day. But one major problem that threatens all pools is leaking. Leaks are a huge bane to any pool owner, and letting one go for too long is just asking for trouble.
To try and prevent leaks, most pools have a rubber pool liner. Rubber pool liners are used in different kinds of pools to act as a waterproof barrier to keep water in your pool. These barriers can be effective, but their main weakness is their construction. Rubber pool liners are one solid piece, and a failure at any point can cause the entire system to fail. When a rubber pool liner fails, you have to drain your pool and replace the entire liner. This can be costly and time-consuming. As a result, many homeowners are turning to alternative pool liner options to extend the life of their pool and reduce maintenance costs.
Some Popular Pool Liner Alternatives
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass pool liners are a popular alternative to traditional vinyl liners. They are made from a durable, gel-coated fiberglass material that is resistant to wear and tear. They are also easy to install and maintain, making them a cost-effective option for homeowners.
- PVC Membrane: PVC membrane pool liners are another popular alternative to traditional vinyl liners. They are made from a durable PVC material that is resistant to wear and tear, UV rays, and chemicals. These unique pool liners are also easy to install and maintain, making them a cost-effective option for homeowners.
- Tiles: Tiling is a popular alternative to traditional pool liners. Tiles can be made from a variety of materials such as ceramic, glass, or mosaics. They are durable and easy to clean, making them a great option for homeowners who want a low-maintenance pool.
- Concrete: Concrete pool liners are a more permanent alternative to traditional vinyl liners. They are made by pouring a concrete slab and then waterproofing it. These replacement inground pool liners are extremely durable and require very little maintenance, making them a great option for homeowners who want a low-maintenance pool.
- Natural Stone: Natural stone liners are a unique and stylish alternative to traditional vinyl liners. They are made from natural stone such as travertine, slate, or marble. They are extremely durable, low maintenance, and offer a unique and luxurious look to any pool.
Overall, there are many alternatives to traditional pool liners that homeowners can choose from. Each of these pool lining options has its own set of pros and cons, and it is essential to weigh the costs, benefits, and maintenance requirements before making a decision. Consider the style and overall aesthetic of your backyard, budget, and maintenance concerns before making a final decision. For a side-by-side look at coatings, paints, and finishes, see our guide to the best pool waterproofing products.
Sticking with a vinyl liner? Repair the walls and floor before you reline
If you decide to put in a new liner, the job goes better when the shell under it is sound. A new liner laid over cracked walls or a rough floor wears through faster and shows every flaw. Here is how a typical reline goes.
- Drain and prep. Drain the pool completely and remove the fixtures, drains, and lights.
- Remove the old liner. Pull the liner’s bead out of the track and cut the liner into sections. Smaller pieces are easier to haul out.
- Inspect the walls and floor. Look for cracks, holes, and other imperfections. Replace any wall panel that is badly corroded, and replace the liner track if it is damaged.
- Patch the cracks. Mix 2 parts LRB (Liquid Rubber Base) with 1 part TAV (Thickening Activator). Fill cracks in the walls and floor and smooth them with a trowel.
- Hang the new liner. With a couple of helpers, drape the liner across the pool without dragging it over the floor, then lower it into place. Follow the liner maker’s installation instructions.
- Lock it into the track. Work the edge of the liner into the track all the way around the pool.
- Vacuum out the air. Tape over the skimmer opening, slide a vacuum hose about three quarters of the way down between the wall and the liner, seal around the hose, and turn the vacuum on to pull out the wrinkles.
- Fill and set the main drain. With the vacuum running, start filling. If you have to shut off the vacuum, shut off the water first. At about 4 inches of water in the deep end, install the second drain gasket, cut the liner inside the gaskets, and attach the drain cover.
- Finish filling. Fill until there are 2 to 3 inches of water in the shallow end, remove the hose, and lock that last section of liner into the track. Install the other fixtures the same way as the drain, uncover the skimmer, and fill to the normal level.
If the shell is concrete and you would rather never buy another liner, the next section covers coating the pool instead.
SANI-TRED is a permanent waterproofing and repair product for almost any size or type of pool.
SANI-TRED® waterproofing products are the perfect alternative to conventional inground pool liner replacements. Our products even work with unconventional shipping container swimming pools. Our 3-component liquid rubber waterproofing system works together to repair, patch, profile, and waterproof your pool with unmatched protection. SANI-TRED® is a durable waterproof material that bonds to concrete on a molecular level, making it the perfect option for repairing and waterproofing your existing pool. PermaFlex™ acts as a priming and topcoat to completely seal your pool and prevent cracks and resulting leaks. Liquid Rubber Base (LRB) and Thickening Activator (TAV) repair cracks, holes, and other imperfections, keeping your concrete whole and protected. These components work together to keep water in your pool where it belongs while preventing cracks that cause leaks. If you’re tired of the same old rubber inground swimming pool liners, SANI-TRED® is a great DIY pool liner alternative.
See the full process in our DIY swimming pool waterproofing and repair guide. Not sure it will work on your pool? Order a sample pack, which comes with a Double Your Money Back Guarantee, or call 1-866-784-3308 to talk with a SANI-TRED tech.