How to Install an Above-Ground Pool Liner?

21 minutes read

Installing an above-ground pool liner can be a daunting task if you are unfamiliar with the process. However, by following these steps, you can successfully install a new liner for your above-ground pool:

  1. Prepare the pool: Start by assembling the pool frame according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure that the walls are clean and smooth, free from any debris or sharp objects that could potentially damage the liner.
  2. Measure and purchase a liner: Accurately measure the dimensions of your pool, including the length, width, and depth. Use these measurements to purchase a liner that fits your pool's specifications. Ensure you select a liner made specifically for above-ground pools.
  3. Drain the pool: Before installing a new liner, you need to drain the existing water in your pool. Using a submersible pump, remove the water from the pool until it is completely empty.
  4. Remove the old liner: If you are replacing an old liner, carefully remove it by loosening any clips or fasteners that hold it in place. Start at one end and work your way around the pool, ensuring that you remove the liner completely.
  5. Inspect the pool walls and bottom: Once the old liner is removed, inspect the walls and bottom of the pool for any damage or rough areas. Repair any cracks or sharp edges and remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated.
  6. Install the new liner: Begin by laying the new liner flat near the pool. Carefully unfold it and position it in the center of the pool, ensuring that it covers the walls and bottom evenly.
  7. Smooth out the wrinkles: Using your hands, gently smooth out any wrinkles or folds in the liner to ensure it fits snugly against the walls and bottom of the pool. Start from the center and work your way outwards, progressively removing wrinkles as you go.
  8. Secure the liner: Attach the liner to the top of the pool wall using coping strips or other securing mechanisms provided by the manufacturer. These will hold the liner in place, ensuring it does not shift or move during use.
  9. Fill the pool: Once the liner is secure, begin filling the pool with water. Gradually fill it to the recommended water level, ensuring the liner settles evenly against the walls and bottom as the water rises.
  10. Adjust and finish: As the pool fills, keep an eye on the liner to ensure it remains smooth and properly aligned. Once full, trim any excess liner material and complete any finishing touches as recommended by the manufacturer.


Remember to consult the manufacturer's instructions specific to your above-ground pool and liner to ensure you follow any additional steps or recommendations.

Best Above-Ground Pools of 2024

1
Bestway: Steel Pro MAX 15' X 48" Above Ground Pool Set - 4231 Gallon, Outdoor Family Pool, Corrosion & Puncture Resistant, Includes Filter, Pump, Ladder & Cover

Rating is 5 out of 5

Bestway: Steel Pro MAX 15' X 48" Above Ground Pool Set - 4231 Gallon, Outdoor Family Pool, Corrosion & Puncture Resistant, Includes Filter, Pump, Ladder & Cover

  • All ages will enjoy swimming and splashing all summer long in this 15-foot by 48-inch round above-ground pool; Includes a model 58388E 1,000-gallon filter pump, a ladder, and a pool cover
  • Built with a steel frame that is held together with FrameLink System to provide remarkable strength and connection
  • DuraPlus enhance 3-play PVC liner with an elegant design that provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
  • Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
2
INTEX 26355EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 9ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture & Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

INTEX 26355EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 18ft x 9ft x 52in – Includes 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture & Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble

  • EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind.Age grade: 6+.Age Grading: 6+
  • EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
  • RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
  • SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
  • KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26643EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
  • REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection
3
Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Bestway Power Steel 24' x 12' x 52" Rectangular Metal Frame Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

  • All ages will enjoy swimming in the 24-foot by 12-foot by 52-inch above-ground pool set, including a model 58498E 1,500 GPH sand filter pump, a ChemConnect dispenser, a ladder, and a pool cover
  • Steel frame construction increases durability and is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
  • TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a reliable support band for additional stability to the pool wall for all summer fun
  • Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage with no tools required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
  • Disclaimer: Please review your HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing the product; Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools
4
Bestway Power Steel 18' x 9' x 48" Oval Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Bestway Power Steel 18' x 9' x 48" Oval Metal Frame Above Ground Outdoor Swimming Pool Set with 1500 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, and Pool Cover

  • All ages will enjoy swimming all summer long in the 18-foot by 9-foot by 48-inch above-ground pool; Includes a model 58390E 1,500 GPH filter pump, a ladder, and a convenient secure pool cover
  • Built with a steel frame that is held together with Seal and Lock System to provide remarkable strength and connection
  • TriTech enhanced 3-ply PVC liner provides a support band for additional stability to the pool wall for ultimate durability
  • Simple assembly and take-down process for off-season storage; No tools are required to connect the hose to the flow control valve to efficiently drain the pool water
5
Funsicle 16ft x 48in Round Oasis Above Ground Pool, with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

Funsicle 16ft x 48in Round Oasis Above Ground Pool, with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

  • LUXURY POOL EXPERIENCE: Ideal for up to 8 people – Perfect for families, socializing & swimming
  • SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
  • MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
  • 2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
  • CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
6
Funsicle 14ft x 48in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

Funsicle 14ft x 48in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

  • STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for 6 to 7 people
  • SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
  • MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
  • 2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1000 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
  • CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
7
Bestway Hydrium 15 Feet by 48 Inches Steel Wall Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Accessories, Sand Filter Pump & Chemical Dispenser, Gray

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Bestway Hydrium 15 Feet by 48 Inches Steel Wall Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Accessories, Sand Filter Pump & Chemical Dispenser, Gray

  • Family-sized 15-foot by 48-inch round pool provides a place for kids and adults to enjoy summer fun
  • Ultra-durable galvanized steel wall, top platform, and supports provide superior rust and corrosion resistance
  • Embossed, textured woodgrain pattern on outer wall with realistic Prismatic Stone printing on the inner liner; Ultra-Violet coating protects liner from discoloration and cracking
  • Can stay assembled all year long without damage for seasonal convenience; Easy, 3-tool DIY setup; Screwdriver, wrench, and knife needed for assembly
  • Includes pool, sand filter, skimmer, ladder, ground cloth, pool cover, ChemConnect chemical dispenser
8
Funsicle 22ft x 52in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Funsicle 22ft x 52in Round Oasis Designer Above Ground Pool, Dark Double Rattan with SkimmerPlus Filter Pump & Ladder

  • STYLISH LUXURY POOL: Perfect for families, socializing & swimming, with space for up to 11 people
  • SIMPLE SETUP: SmartConnect poles with convenient snap-in design
  • MADE TO LAST: Ultra-strong oval metal frame with anti-corrosive matte finish & durable non-phthalates liner
  • 2-IN-1 SKIMMER PUMP & ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES: Comes with SFX1500 SkimmerPlus Filter Pump (with GFCI) & type C filter cartridge. Includes deluxe maintenance kit, pool cover, ground cloth & repair patch
  • CLIMB IN & OUT: SureStep Ladder included for easy pool access
9
INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

INTEX 26339EH Ultra XTR Deluxe Above Ground Swimming Pool Set: 24ft x 52in – Includes 2800 GPH Cartridge Sand Filter Pump – SuperTough Puncture Resistant – Rust Resistant – Easy to Assemble

  • EXPERIENCE THE ULTRA DIFFERENCE – Uniquely designed frame combines high quality galvanized steel with precision engineered locking system, enhancing the overall quality, durability and stability of the pools; 2 year warranty included for peace of mind
  • EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Ready for water in just 60 minutes; Ultra XTR pools are designed with an Easy Lock System, making it easy to assemble; frame components simply snap together with no locking pins or additional tools needed
  • RUST RESISTANT – Encapsulated with inner and outer powder coating ensures the ultimate resistance to rust; the T-Joints are engineered for high strength and infused with UV inhibitor to ensure weather resistance and long service life
  • SUPER-TOUGH – Made with puncture-resistant 3-Ply PVC material, this pool is built to resist the wear and tear of summer fun; in case of any damage, a patch is included for easy fixes
  • KRYSTAL CLEAR SAND FILTRATION – The included Krystal Clear Sand Filter pump (#26647EG) provides excellent water filtration as the 6-function control valve allows the pool owner to: filter, backwash and rinse, recirculate, drain and close the system
  • REMOVABLE LADDER – The Ultra XTR pool includes a removable ladder that has a coated steel frame to prevent rust; Hi-impact steps for ease of getting in and out of the pool; included pool cover to keep debris out and ground cloth for added protection


How to measure the size of an above-ground pool liner?

To measure the size of an above-ground pool liner, you will need a few basic tools and some simple steps. Here's a guide to help you:

  1. Ensure the pool is empty: Make sure the pool is drained completely and the liner is dry before attempting to measure it.
  2. Gather the necessary tools: You will need a measuring tape and a pen and paper to record the measurements.
  3. Start with the pool width: Measure the width of the pool by stretching the measuring tape across the interior of the pool wall from one side to the other. Be sure to measure from the inside, not the outside, of the pool.
  4. Measure the pool length: Stretch the measuring tape along the length of the pool from one end to the other. Again, make sure to measure from the inside.
  5. Determine the depth: Measure the depth of the pool by starting from the top edge of the wall and extending the measuring tape down to the base of the pool floor. Take the measurement at multiple points around the pool and note the maximum depth.
  6. Measure the height: Measure the height of the pool wall by starting from the top edge and measuring down to the bottom of the wall. This measurement will be necessary if you're also replacing the pool wall material.
  7. Record the measurements: Note down all the measurements you have taken, ensuring they are accurate and clearly labeled.


These steps should provide you with the necessary measurements to determine the size of your above-ground pool liner. Remember to be precise as any inaccuracies may affect the fit of the new liner.


How to trim excess liner material after installation?

Trimming excess liner material after installation can be done by following the steps below:

  1. Gather the necessary tools: Grab a pair of sharp scissors or a utility knife, measuring tape or ruler, and a marker or pencil.
  2. Measure the area: Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the length of the excess liner material that needs to be trimmed. Mark the measurement on the liner material, ensuring accuracy.
  3. Make a straight cut: Use the marker or pencil to draw a straight line along the marked measurement. This will serve as a guideline for the cutting process.
  4. Cut the material: Holding the scissors or utility knife at a slight angle, carefully cut along the marked line. Take your time to ensure a clean and precise cut. If using a knife, apply firm and even pressure to avoid tearing or ripping the material.
  5. Check for accuracy: Once the cut is complete, check that the trimmed area aligns properly with the installed liner. Make any necessary adjustments if needed.
  6. Clean up: Dispose of the excess liner material and clean up any debris left behind from the trimming process.


Note: It's important to exercise caution when handling sharp tools and always wear protective gloves if necessary. Make sure to read and follow any safety instructions provided with the tools being used.


How to attach a pool skimmer to the liner?

Attaching a pool skimmer to the liner involves a few steps. Here is a general guide to help you with the process:

  1. Select the appropriate location: Choose a spot on the pool wall that is close to the filter and pump system. Avoid any obstructions or fittings that might interfere with the skimmer installation.
  2. Cut an opening in the liner: Using a knife or a specialized skimmer hole-cutting tool, carefully cut out a hole in the liner. The hole should match the shape and size of the pool skimmer assembly you are using.
  3. Prepare the skimmer assembly: Attach the faceplate onto the skimmer body according to the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure all necessary gaskets, o-rings, and screws are in place.
  4. Position the skimmer: Insert the skimmer assembly into the opening on the pool wall. Ensure that it lines up with the hole in the liner and that the faceplate is properly aligned with the pool opening.
  5. Secure the skimmer: Using the provided screws or clips, secure the skimmer assembly to the pool wall. Be careful not to overtighten, as it may damage the liner or the skimmer assembly.
  6. Cut excess liner: Trim off any excess liner material around the skimmer hole, leaving a small overlap for sealing.
  7. Seal the skimmer: Apply a pool-safe silicone or adhesive sealant around the opening between the liner and the skimmer faceplate. This step is crucial to prevent any leakage between the liner and the skimmer assembly.
  8. Connect the plumbing: Connect the skimmer basket to the suction line plumbing inside the skimmer. This line is typically connected to the pool pump and filter system.
  9. Test the skimmer: Fill the pool with water and run the pump to ensure the skimmer is functioning properly. Check for any leaks or issues that may need adjustment or repair.


Always refer to the specific instructions provided with your pool skimmer assembly as each one may have slight variations in the installation process.


What is the role of a pool liner lock in the installation process?

A pool liner lock is used to secure the pool liner in place during installation. It is often installed along the top edge of the pool wall and holds the liner snugly against the wall, preventing it from sagging or shifting. The liner lock typically consists of a track or channel that is attached to the pool wall, and a locking strip that is inserted into the track to hold the liner in place. This helps to ensure a smooth and even installation of the pool liner, providing a neat and professional appearance.

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