How to install a new pool liner

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Introduction

Noticing wrinkles, leaks, or fading in your pool liner? If your vinyl liner is showing its age, it might be time for a replacement. In this complete step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to install a new pool liner the right way. Whether you’re upgrading for looks or fixing a major issue, installing a new liner can restore your pool’s beauty and prevent long-term damage.

Why Replacing a Pool Liner Matters

Your pool liner isn’t just for looks—it serves a vital purpose. It creates a waterproof barrier between the pool structure and the water. When a liner becomes damaged, it can lead to:

  • Water leaks that waste resources and cause erosion
  • Structural damage to the pool walls or floor
  • Mold or algae growth beneath the liner
  • Sharp wrinkles or bulges that pose safety hazards

A properly installed new liner improves appearance, protects your pool’s structure, and extends the life of your pool.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a New Pool Liner

Step 1: Choose the Right Replacement Liner

Pool liners are not one-size-fits-all. To get started:

  • Measure your pool dimensions (length, width, depth)
  • Determine the shape (rectangular, oval, round, freeform)
  • Choose liner type: overlap, beaded, or unibead
  • Pick a design or pattern that suits your taste

Pro Tip: Order a liner from a reputable supplier that fits your pool’s specifications exactly.

Step 2: Drain the Pool Completely

Before removing the old liner, you’ll need to drain all the water.

  1. Use a submersible pump to remove pool water.
  2. Direct the discharge away from your pool foundation.
  3. Once drained, remove remaining water with buckets or a wet vac.

⚠️ Warning: Never leave a pool empty for long. The walls can collapse or shift without the water’s pressure. Work efficiently.

Step 3: Remove the Old Liner

With the pool empty:

  1. Remove faceplates, skimmer covers, return fittings, lights, and main drain covers.
  2. Carefully cut and peel back the old liner.
  3. Remove the liner from the track or coping (for beaded/unibead liners) or from over the walls (for overlap liners).
  4. Dispose of the liner responsibly—some recycling centers may accept it.

Tip: Keep all screws and hardware in a labeled container for reassembly.

Step 4: Inspect and Repair the Pool Base

Before installing the new liner, thoroughly inspect the pool base and walls:

  • Look for cracks, erosion, rust, or sharp objects
  • Patch any divots or holes with pool base repair mix or vermiculite
  • Smooth out the entire surface using a trowel

Optional: Add a pool floor pad or liner guard for extra protection against tears and abrasions.

Step 5: Install the New Liner

Now the fun part—installing the new liner. Follow these steps carefully:

For Beaded Liners:

  1. Start by unfolding the liner inside the pool and spreading it out evenly.
  2. Snap the bead into the track around the perimeter of the pool wall.
  3. Adjust the liner so it’s centered and evenly distributed—no tight spots or bunching.

For Overlap Liners:

  1. Hang the liner over the pool wall with the overlap section draped on the outside.
  2. Use plastic coping strips or clothespins to hold it in place temporarily.
  3. Adjust to remove large wrinkles from the floor area.

Pro Tip: Let the liner warm in the sun for an hour—it becomes more pliable and easier to adjust.

Step 6: Use a Shop Vac to Set the Liner

To get a snug fit before adding water:

  1. Place a shop vac hose behind the liner (between the liner and pool wall) near the shallow end.
  2. Turn on the vacuum to suck out the air.
  3. As the liner tightens, gently smooth out wrinkles on the floor and walls.
  4. Once the liner is tight and evenly placed, turn off the vacuum.

Caution: Don’t let the vac run for more than 30 minutes at a time—allow it to cool between uses.

Step 7: Begin Filling the Pool

Once the liner is properly aligned:

  1. Begin filling the pool with water using a garden hose.
  2. Monitor the liner closely as it fills—make sure it stays in place and doesn’t shift.
  3. At about 6 inches of water, reinstall the main drain cover (if accessible).
  4. At 12–18 inches, reinstall the skimmer, returns, lights, and faceplates.

Important: Use silicone sealant around fittings and gaskets to prevent leaks.

Step 8: Finish Filling and Check for Leaks

Continue filling the pool until it reaches the normal operating level. Then:

  • Double-check all fittings and faceplates for water-tightness
  • Inspect the liner for wrinkles or stretching
  • Test for leaks around the skimmer and return areas

Tip: Walk around the perimeter and apply pressure near seams to spot hidden leaks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Incorrect Liner Size
    • A liner that’s too tight can rip; too loose leads to wrinkles.
    • Solution: Always measure your pool carefully and order a precise fit.
  2. Not Using a Shop Vac
    • Failing to vacuum air pockets can lead to permanent wrinkles.
    • Solution: Use a vacuum to remove air and settle the liner before filling.
  3. Installing in Cold Weather
    • Cold liners are stiff and hard to stretch properly.
    • Solution: Install on a warm, sunny day to improve flexibility.
  4. Skipping Surface Prep
    • Leaving debris or rough spots can damage the new liner.
    • Solution: Smooth and clean the surface thoroughly before installation.
  5. Over-tightening Faceplate Screws
    • Can crack plastic or strip threads.
    • Solution: Tighten evenly and gently to form a watertight seal.

Extra Tips & Pool Hacks

  • Add chlorine only after pool is full to avoid liner bleaching
  • Use foam or liner guards under the liner to extend its life
  • Avoid draining a pool with a liner unless replacing it—empty pools can cause liner shrinkage

🧰 Need more pool DIY help? Check out our article on how to repair pool coping stones to keep your pool in top shape.

Conclusion

Installing a new pool liner takes effort, but with careful planning and the right technique, you can complete the job successfully and enjoy a beautiful, watertight pool for years to come. From prepping the base to vacuum-setting the liner, every step matters—take your time, follow the process, and enjoy the reward of a fresh new pool finish.

💡 Final Tip: Take before-and-after photos—it’s incredibly satisfying to see your hard work pay off!