Do you notice a big bubble in your pool liner? Or is it floating just a bit towards one side? If you notice any problem with the liner, your pool may have a floating liner issue, it means your pool is experiencing a floating pool liner. During the off-season, this issue is likely to arise even more.
To address the issue, prepare in advance and periodically check the pool. Still, if the problem arises, calling a pool floating liner repair service near Staten Island is the best option to consider. What exactly is a pool liner floating, and how is it repaired? Here, we have gathered all the essential information to help you make a smart decision.
What is a Pool Liner Floating?
When a pool’s liner detaches from the walls or floor of the pool, a wrinkled, bubbly appearance forms. This happens due to the water pressure that comes from underneath the liner.
What Makes a Pool Liner Float?
A floating pool liner is a complex issue that may cause serious damage when not addressed properly. Vinyl liners are designed to be attached to the walls and floor of the pool in a substantial manner; however, certain issues may cause bubbling, wrinkling, and floating. Understanding what causes this problem is the first step toward fixing and preventing it.
- Age and Wear
Over time, pool liners degrade due to prolonged exposure to chemicals, sunlight, and water pressure. As the liner ages, it becomes less elastic and more prone to detachment. Small tears and fragility can allow water or air to get behind the liner, causing it to lift or float. Liners usually last between eight and twelve years. If yours is older than that, it may be time to replace it.
- Poor Drainage Around the Pool
Improper drainage is one of the most common culprits behind a floating pool liner. When heavy rainfall or irrigation causes groundwater to collect around your pool, the water pressure outside the pool can exceed the pressure inside. It may cause the liner to fold in on itself, causing it to float or bubble. The landscape should be properly graded and have drainage systems that would channel water away from the pool structure.
- Poor Installation
A brand new liner can float when it is not installed correctly. Improper vacuuming during installation or failing to ensure a tight seal around the pool’s base and walls can allow air or groundwater to get in. A poorly fitted liner will struggle to adhere properly, especially under the pressure of water.
- Leaks and Cracks
Leaks in your pool’s plumbing or structure allow water to seep and flow into the surrounding ground. The water gradually builds up groundwater, which exerts pressure on the liner. Groundwater intrusion into the pool through cracks in the pool floor or wall also causes the liner to be pushed out of place from the inside.
- Groundwater
Even if you don’t have drainage/leaking problems, naturally high groundwater levels in your area might be an issue. Heavy rain will cause the groundwater level to rise and exert hydrostatic pressure on your pool. If your pool/liner is on low ground, this may be enough pressure to push the liner up, as the groundwater level rises. This means you would have to either install a sump well or a dewatering system.
How to Repair a Pool Liner?
If your pool liner has started to float or form bubbles, then it’s time to address the issue and call in a pool liner repair near Staten Island as soon as possible before it escalates further.
Do Not Drain the Pool
Do not empty a vinyl-lined pool without consulting the experts. Emptying the water will eliminate the internal pressure that holds the liner in position, and there is a likelihood of it floating more seriously or even tearing. It may attract expensive repairs or replacement.
Lower the Pool Water Level
Do not drain, but lower the water level a little, so that you can relieve some of the pressure without disturbing the position of the liner. It will provide you with some room to operate when trying to eliminate air or water trapped behind the liner.
Trace Out the Vacuum Pipe
Use a wet-dry vacuum or a vacuum pipe to remove water from behind the liner. The vacuum pipe is usually run down the corner of the pool and can suck out the water trapped behind. This helps the liner settle back into its original position. If you are unable to do it, don’t worry; call in professionals and let them sort out the issue.
Utilize a Pool Broom
Use a pool broom to smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles gently. Work from the center of the bubble outward, pushing the liner back into its original position. This method is most effective when used together with vacuuming.
Prevent the Pool from Overfilling
Keep an eye on your pool’s water level, especially after rainfall. An overfilled pool can contribute to water seeping into the ground, exacerbating the issue of the liner floating. Use a pump or siphon to lower water levels during the rainy season.
Watch that the Pool Water Level Doesn’t Go Overboard
Keep an eye on your pool’s water level, especially after rainfall. An overfilled pool can contribute to water seeping into the ground, exacerbating the issue of the liner floating. Use a pump or siphon to lower water levels during the rainy season.
Get in Touch With a Professional
While minor liner issues can sometimes be handled by yourself, larger problems—such as groundwater intrusion or severe floating—require professional help. With the right tools and skills, an experienced pool technician can accurately analyze the cause, repair the damage, and prevent future problems.
Tips on How to Prevent It From Happening Again
As soon as your liner is back in place, it is essential to take steps to prevent the same problem from happening again.
- Remove Water from Pool Cover during Dry Periods
Groundwater may be at a lower level than pool water during dry periods. However, standing water on your pool cover may soak in around the edges, contributing to a floating liner. Be sure to pump water off your pool cover quickly, especially after any heavy rains.
- Install a Safety Cover
Unlike conventional tarps, safety covers are fitted firmly and secured to ensure that water will not collect on the surface. They also shield the liner from the sun’s UV rays and exclude debris, further minimizing water infiltration around the pool.
- Regularly Maintain Sump Well
If your pool contains a sump well (a shallow pit that allows collected groundwater to drain away), have it checked and drained accordingly. Keeping the sump well-maintained controls hydrostatic pressure and stops groundwater from pressing on the liner.
Contact the Pros Today!
If, after trying everything mentioned above, your pool liner still does not return to its original shape, then it’s time to call in professionals. We at Fugetta Pools have been helping homeowners repair pool liners and install inground swimming pools for over 35 years.
Our expert team can fix even the most complex issues with utmost ease. Get in touch with us when looking for pool floating liner repair near Staten Island, and we will help you find a perfect solution.