When to Replace a Vinyl Liner
1. Fading or Staining
Over time, UV rays and sanitizers can cause liner colors to fade. Stains that won’t brush away—especially from algae, metals, or organic material—are not just unsightly; they often signal deeper material degradation.
2. Wrinkles, Stretching, or Pulling Away
A properly installed liner should fit tight and smooth. Wrinkles, bulges, or corners pulling out of the track indicate stretching or shifting—both signs the liner is losing elasticity and can no longer hold its shape effectively.
3. Brittle or Cracked Texture
As liners age, they become less flexible. A liner that feels brittle to the touch—or shows cracking along seams or stress points—has reached the end of its life and is prone to tearing without warning.
4. Water Loss That’s Hard to Trace
Small leaks in aging liners often go unnoticed until water levels start dropping consistently. If evaporation and equipment checks don’t explain the loss, a compromised liner may be the cause.
5. It’s Been 8–12 Years
Most vinyl liners last about 8 to 12 years, depending on care and environmental conditions. If yours is approaching or past that window, it’s wise to begin planning for replacement—before emergency repairs are needed.