Your pool’s liner is one of the fundamental parts of your pool. Treat it right and it will stay in good shape for years to come. Neglect it, however, and it will need to be repaired or replaced.

 

Properly winterizing your pool will protect your liner from damage and extend its lifespan. Here are six ways to keep your liner in great shape this season:

 

  1. Focus on cleaning

 

Keeping your pool clean is one of the most important parts of maintenance. Use cleaning agents and aids that are effective in removing dirt and debris from your liner. To prepare for this offseason, clean the entirety of your liner thoroughly, including above the waterline.

 

Be careful, however, to not use cleaning agents or aids that are harsh or abrasive to protect the appearance and structure of your liner. Be sure to use cleaning tools and agents specifically designed for pool liner use to keep your liner in great shape.

 

  1. Make sure your water is balanced

 

Use a test kit about a week before you plan on closing the pool to assess the levels, adjusting them to the ideal. If you are unsure if your levels are ideal or how to adjust them, bring a sample of your pool’s water to your swimming pool professional to have them analyze.

 

Throughout the offseason, check these levels every couple of weeks to make sure they stay balanced -- it seems like an unnecessary chore but will prevent time-consuming issues when opening your pool next season.

 

  1. Use the proper winterizing chemicals

 

The type and amount of chemicals you use to winterize your pool can impact the shape of your liner this season. Be sure to use chemicals specifically made for vinyl liners that will keep it strong and looking great.

 

Also, use the minimum amount of chemicals required to be effective, as closing your pool creates a closed environment that can become harsh if too many chemicals are introduced. Be sure to follow the care and maintenance instructions for chemical dosing and dilution suggestions. Circulating the pool water by running your pump for at least one full cycle will also help ensure chemicals are evenly distributed and have no ill effect on your liner.

 

  1. Maintain the proper water level

The amount of water in your pool changes the pressure put on the liner, which impacts its stretching properties. The ideal water level for pool closure depends on a few different factors, like climate and whether the pool is above or below ground, so be sure to contact a swimming pool professional to understand the proper water level for your pool.

 

  1. Keep your pool covered

 

Covering your pool prevents dirt, debris, and climate factors (such as sun or ice) from impacting your liner. Having a cover on your pool when it’s not in use will greatly prolong the lifespan. Your best option for a pool cover is a mesh or solid safety pool cover. These covers are fitted precisely to your pool size and shape and are secured tightly to your deck, securing the entire perimeter. Protecting your liner from the elements with a pool cover will ensure it is in as good of shape when you open your pool as when you closed it this season.

 

Having a safety pool cover also keeps your family and pets safe when enjoying the backyard during the offseason. With material strong enough to support an elephant, you can have peace of mind of knowing your loved ones are safe around your pool.

  1. Invest in the best

 

The quality of your pool liner plays a big role in how well it withstands the test of time. You’ll want a liner made of high-quality virgin vinyl with materials manufactured in North America. These liners are the most durable and can last significantly longer than lower-quality imitations.

 

Remember that quality does not mean sacrificing style. That’s why LOOP-LOC liners are available in over 30 designs, including Shimmering Seawaves, the first fully embossed and textured liner.

 

Treat your pool liner right this offseason, so your pool can keep treating you right year after year!