How to Choose the Pool Liner That’s Right for You

A sturdy, attractive liner is one of the essential elements to consider when installing a backyard pool. There are a whole host of factors to think about when deciding on a pool liner. This four-part series of articles will explore some of the features that matter most when it comes to pool liner options. First, we’ll consider thickness.

How Thick Should Your Pool Liner Be? It Depends

Choosing the thickest pool liner possible seems like common sense. After all, it’s natural to assume that the thicker your liner is, the longer it will last. But is this really the case? It’s true that a thick liner can tend to be more puncture resistant than a thin liner, but thinner liners tend to be more pliable during installation than thicker liners. That pliability can make a big difference when it comes to getting a good, tight fit during installation. According to many liner manufacturers, a proper fit can be more of a predictor of a liner’s longevity than the actual thickness of the liner.

Some of the different thickness options you have to choose from when it comes to pool liners are 20 mil, 27 mil, 28 mil, and 30 mil. Though added thickness can prevent punctures and possibly help the liner last longer than thin liners, the liner’s thickness usually won’t make a major difference in the end. If you find a liner pattern you really love and it only comes in 20 mil, it’s perfectly fine to go with a thinner liner. If, however, the pattern comes in multiple thicknesses, then it makes sense to choose the thickest available liner you can afford in your preferred pattern. If you do choose a thicker liner, you may want to take some extra precaution to see to it that it’s installed properly.

Liner Installation Tips

Whatever thickness the liner you choose turns out to be, make sure to take your time and follow these important installation steps.

First, work with an experienced pool contractor who can help you to ensure that your liner won’t be overstretched during installation.
Second, allow the liner to sit in a warm environment such as outside in the sun for several days before installation.
Finally, choose to install your liner on a day when the air is still and warm. The cooler the temperature, the more likely your pool liner will be to lose its flexibility, which could possibly lead to an improper fit.

If your liner isn’t installed correctly, chances are it’s not going to last as long as it should.

Thickness Shouldn’t Significantly Impact Fading

Though it may come as a surprise, the thickness of your pool’s liner shouldn’t have a big effect one way or another on how much the liner fades over time. That’s because, regardless of the thickness, all pool liners have the same clear coat protective layer added to their surfaces. It’s the erosion of this layer which leads to fading. Overstretching while the liner is installed, sun damage and excessive chemical use are all factors that can lead to liner fading. The best way to avoid this problem is to have your liner properly installed, get a cover for your pool to protect it from the sun, and use the right amount of chemicals. Over time, it’s normal for every liner to eventually experience some fading.

Thickness is just one of the crucial factors to consider when it comes to choosing a pool liner. The next article in this four-part series will deal with how to decide on your pool liner’s color.

Lyon Financial

Since 1979 Lyon Financial has made the backyard resort dream come true for over 400,000 families across the U.S. Through our solid relationships with more than 3,000 pool contractors and our continued commitment to putting our clients first, we have built a reputation as the first choice in providing pool financing solutions. For more information, visit lyonfinancial.net or call (877) 754-5966 today.