How to Install an Above Ground Pool Liner

Installing an above ground pool liner can sound like a complicated job that you would rather leave to the pros. It is not as complicated as it sounds though. With the right information, tools and materials, you can prepare and install your above ground pool liner yourself in no time and save a lot of money. The job will also be a fun and you can take help from your family while you do it. Follow this step-by-step guide for instructions on how to install an above ground pool liner. The tools and materials required for the job are given below.

Step 1 - Prepare the Pool

The first step is to prepare the pool for effective installation of the ground pool liner. Drain all the water from the pool first, using a sump pump. Clear the liner area by removing hung ladders and other equipment from the area. You don’t need any obstruction in the liner area before you start installation. Also from inside the pool area, remove face plates and gaskets from the returns, lights, etc. Replace these face plates if they seem to cracked or damaged.

Step 2 - Remove Old Liner

Use a razor knife to cut the old liner into small pieces. You can use this technique to easily remove the old pool liner. When you’re done removing the pool liner, clear the entire pool area from any pebbles and rocks that may have accumulated over time. 

Step 3 - Seal Holes in the Pool

Before you install the above ground pool liner, seal the through-the-wall skimmer with cardboard. Use duct-tape to attach the cardboard on to the surface. Then seal the water-return and the light holes the same way using duct tape. When done, insert a 2 inch shop vac hose through the skimmer area and seal it well into place using duct tape.

Step 4 - Install Above Ground Pool Liner

First, fold the pool liner in half. Place the liner around the pool area without allowing it to fall into the pool. Using help from family members here can make the job easier and more fun. Carefully unfold the liner in the pool area with help from family members. Keep attaching the liner to the pool wall using clothes pins. Do this effectively by pulling the liner at least 6 inches over the pool wall. When done, tap the pool liner towards the walls. You have to make sure that the bottom seam is even and does not have lumps.

Now, connect the shop vac to the vac hose and turn it on. This will suck out air from the liner area and you can then tighten the pool liner by removing and attaching the clothes pins. Use help from your family here as this has to be done quick.

Step 5 - Finish the Job

Keep the vac hose attached and start filling the pool with water. When you have filled the pool at least an inch, turn the vac off. Reattach all the equipment you removed from the pool now and remove the clothes pins as you do that. When water has reached around a 1 foot level, re install all the gaskets and face plates. Your job is done!