Installing an above ground pool liner may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience, it can be done quickly and easily. Not only does installing a new liner improve the overall appearance of your pool, but it can also help prevent leaks and other potential issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the installation process, from gathering the necessary tools and materials to filling the pool and finishing the installation.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin the installation process, it’s essential to make sure you have all the tools and materials you need. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• New above ground pool liner
• Utility knife or scissors
• Duct tape or liner patch kit
• Pool cove
• Pool liner floor pad
• Pool wall foam
• Pool skimmer and return gaskets
• Pool skimmer and return faceplates
• Pool liner coping strips
• Rubber mallet
• Measuring tape
• Chalk or marker
• Garden hose
• Sump pump or wet/dry vacuum

Each of these tools and materials is crucial to the installation process, so make sure you have everything you need before starting.

One additional thing to keep in mind is the size of your pool. Make sure you have the correct size liner for your pool. You can determine the size by measuring the length, width, and depth of your pool. It’s also a good idea to double-check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you have the correct liner for your specific pool model.

With all the necessary tools and materials at hand, you’re ready to move on to the next step in the installation process.

Drain the Pool

Before removing the old liner or installing a new one, you’ll need to drain the pool. Draining the pool is a crucial step in the installation process as it allows you to inspect the pool walls and floor for any potential issues and ensures that the new liner will fit properly. Here’s how to drain your above ground pool:

1. Turn off the pool’s filter and pump system.
2. Use a sump pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove the water from the pool. If you don’t have access to these tools, you can use a garden hose to siphon the water out.
3. Once the water level is low enough, use a bucket or scoop to remove any remaining water from the pool.
4. Take this opportunity to inspect the pool walls and floor for any damage or issues that may need to be addressed before installing the new liner.

Once the pool is drained and inspected, you’re ready to move on to the next step in the installation process.

Remove the Old Liner

Once the pool is drained, it’s time to remove the old liner. Removing the old liner is necessary as it allows you to inspect the pool walls and floor for any damage or issues that need to be addressed before installing the new liner. Here’s how to remove the old liner:

1. Using a utility knife or scissors, cut a small section of the old liner near the top of the pool.
2. Use your hands to peel the liner away from the wall, working your way around the pool. Be careful not to damage the pool wall or any other components while doing this.
3. Once the liner is removed, inspect the pool walls and floor for any damage or issues that need to be addressed before installing the new liner.
4. If there are any areas that need to be repaired, now is the time to do so. Use a liner patch kit or duct tape to cover any holes or tears in the pool wall or floor.

After removing the old liner and making any necessary repairs, you’re ready to move on to the next step in the installation process.

Install the New Liner

Now that you’ve drained the pool and removed the old liner, it’s time to install the new one. Here’s how to install the new above ground pool liner:

1. Begin by placing the pool liner floor pad on the bottom of the pool. Make sure it’s centered and smooth out any wrinkles or creases.
2. Next, install the pool cove around the perimeter of the pool. The pool cove helps to provide a smooth transition between the pool wall and floor and prevent the liner from tearing.
3. Install the pool wall foam on the inside of the pool wall. This foam helps to provide a cushion between the pool wall and the liner, preventing any damage or tears.
4. Begin installing the liner by placing it in the center of the pool, allowing it to drape over the walls and onto the floor. Make sure the liner is centered and smooth out any wrinkles or creases.
5. Install the pool skimmer and return gaskets and faceplates, making sure they’re positioned correctly and tightened securely.
6. Install the pool liner coping strips around the perimeter of the pool, securing the liner in place. Use a rubber mallet to tap the strips into place.
7. Begin filling the pool with water, smoothing out any wrinkles or creases in the liner as the water level rises. Be sure to keep the liner centered and adjust it as needed.
8. Once the pool is filled, trim any excess liner with a utility knife or scissors.

With the new liner installed, you’re ready to move on to the final step in the installation process.

Install the New Liner

Now that you’ve drained the pool and gathered all the necessary tools and materials, it’s time to install the new liner. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Begin by unfolding the new liner and laying it out flat in the sun for a few hours. This helps remove any creases or wrinkles that may have formed during shipping.
2. Next, start at the top of the pool wall and insert the pool liner coping strips into the track. These strips hold the liner in place along the top of the pool wall.
3. Once the coping strips are in place, drape the liner over the pool wall and spread it out evenly across the pool floor. Make sure the liner is centered in the pool and that there are no wrinkles or folds.
4. Begin filling the pool with water slowly while pulling the liner towards the center of the pool as it fills with water. This helps prevent any wrinkles or folds from forming in the liner.
5. As the pool fills with water, use a rubber mallet to secure the liner in place along the pool wall. This will help keep the liner in place and prevent it from shifting or slipping.
6. Once the pool is full, trim any excess material from the edges of the liner and attach the pool skimmer and return faceplates using the gaskets provided.
7. Finally, use a liner patch kit or duct tape to seal any potential leaks or holes in the liner.

It’s important to take your time during the installation process to ensure the liner is properly installed and secured. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid stepping on the liner as much as possible to prevent any punctures or tears.
• Use a measuring tape and chalk to mark the center of the pool before installing the liner. This will help ensure the liner is properly centered.
• Double-check the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific requirements or recommendations for your specific pool model.

Fill the Pool and Finish the Installation

Now that the new liner is installed, it’s time to fill the pool with water and finish the installation process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Begin by filling the pool with water until it reaches the halfway point.
2. Next, install the pool cove along the bottom of the pool wall. This helps protect the liner from damage and provides a smooth transition between the pool wall and floor.
3. Install the pool liner floor pad over the pool floor. This provides extra cushioning for the liner and helps prevent any potential damage.
4. Once the pool is full, turn on the filter and pump system and allow the water to cycle for 24-48 hours to ensure proper circulation and chemical distribution.
5. Finally, test the water and adjust the chemical levels as needed. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific recommendations on chemical levels and maintenance.

With the pool filled and the installation process complete, you can now sit back, relax, and enjoy your newly installed above ground pool liner.