Vinyl swimming pool liners last about 8 to 10 years before requiring to be replaced. Although, problems like leakage or fading could call for that they be replaced sooner.
How To Repair Leaking Pool Liners
Once your pool starts to leak through its liner the continuous loss of water will bring about greater costs. While the water seeps out, some heat and chemicals will go with it hence more power is needed to keep it heated and the chemicals will need to be replaced more frequently, so tackling the problem sooner rather than later is in your best interest. If you can deal with the leak quickly enough, odds are you'll be in a position to make a repair instead of having to obtain a fresh replacement.
Finding leaks can be tricky however it's not unattainable. The initial location to look is around all the fittings and fixtures that protrude through the pool liner like lights, heater, return, filter, skimmer etc. Look to see whether the swimming pool liner has come away or there are indications of leakage seeping from behind a fixture. Check for evidence of leaking or moisture.
If you do not find any leaks round your pool equipment you'll want to start looking at the pool liner itself. Underwater leaks might be identified with a dye analysis. You can get a kit specially designed for leak discovery or could even try food coloring. Put the dye into a calm swimming pool about a quarter of an inch from where you think the leak may be. If there is a leak, close to the area where you introduce the dye, it is going to be sucked out. Most of the time dye testing can be carried out from the side of the pool, now and then however, you may be required to get into the water with a diver's mask to completely inspect the pool liner for leaks.
As soon as you locate the leak you will need to choose whether or not it's something you are able to sort out on your own or whether you should call in a professional.
You can fix little rips with an inexpensive vinyl pool liner repair kit and there are a number of glues and sealants which can be used. If it is below water you will require a "wet" patch set. Apply the watertight bonding agent to the vinyl material and place it exactly over the rip. Then flatten out any water or air bubbles.
Calling In The Pool Professionals
From time to time leaks are in areas of the pool that are not easily or you might simply be unable to locate it yourself. In this case you will have to seek the services of a skilled pool leak specialist who will use sound detection or other specific apparatus and systems to find the leak.
Time for Replacement Pool Liners?
Making repairs can go a long way towards prolonging the life time of your swimming pool but eventually, vinyl swimming pool liners require replacing. Once the liner is dry, brittle and disintegrating, which is a common occurrence just above the water level, it is time for a new one.
And like with the mending situation you'll have to come to a decision whether or not this is a job you would like to handle yourself or whether you'll call in the professionals.