How to repair a damaged swimming pool liner

There are a number of different accidents and incidents that can cause damage to a vinyl swimming pool liner and, fortunately, in many cases the damage can be rectified. Here are a couple of common problems with the associated solutions.

1. Damage - The liner slips out of the top track, or tears just below it.

This is a not uncommon occurrence and it can often be rectified relatively easily if sufficient care patience are shown.

The key to repairing this type of slip or tear is to apply heat directly to the section of liner that needs to be pulled back up and fed into the top track. Heating the appropriate section of liner will make it pliable, soft and easier to stretch. This will make it possible to re-fit the escaped or damaged section whilst reducing the likelihood of causing a tear. There are two ways of doing this.

The first is to poor very hot (but not boiling) water over the liner on and around the area to be stretched. This process may need to be repeated several times with the liner being “worked” and manipulated until it feels pliable and ductile enough to stretch to the tracking. A screwdriver or flat (not sharp) headed tool can be used to ease the liner back into the tracking.

The second method is not to be recommended although some people do use it. By applying heat from a hair drier it is possible to warm-up the affected area of liner before pulling it back into position. Note that this is highly dangerous and should not be attempted. Instead, try the option below.

A safe alternative to the above would be to use a small domestic blow torch (i.e. the gas refill type used for creme brulees). This will provide adequate and directable heat, however, the distance from which the torch can be safely held without damaging (burning) the liner would need to be established before in advance.

2. Damage - The liner has a small tear or cut in it

Large cuts or tears may not be repairable or may require the expertise of pool maintenance technician. However, in the case of small tears a standard pool liner repair kit may suffice. This should be available at all good pool stores.

Perform the repair by selecting an appropriately sized patch from the repair kit. The patch should be comfortably large enough to cover the damaged area and overlap it. Then apply the waterproof bonding agent (included within the kit) to the patch before positioning it over the tear or cut. Apply the agent over the whole of the back of the patch (or as recommended in the repair kit instructions).

To apply the patch, Gently place and press the patch over the damaged area and smooth out any bubbles or lumps. Make sure that there is an airtight bond around the outside edge of the patch and that it is smooth and flush with the liner. This repair can be done without emptying the pool. Refer to the repair kit instruction to determine how long it will take for the bonding agent to dry.

In many cases where there is damage to a liner it is advisable to seek the professional services of a swimming pool contractor. These companies have the parts and equipment necessary to make the repair and they normally offer some kind of guarantee or warranty to go with their work.