At present, vinyl liner pools are among the most popular pool types among homeowners. These pools are affordable and pretty straightforward to install. Aspiring pool owners with a limited budget should consider installing this inground pool type. However, you need to understand all the pros and cons of this pool before you proceed with the installation.

The definition of vinyl liner pools

Typically, vinyl liner pools incorporate five primary components. Let’s look at each of them in detail for a better understanding.

Wall panels:

Every vinyl liner pool has wall panels. As the name suggests, this feature comprises the walls of the pool. Wall panels come in different sizes and materials. The one you choose often depends on your requirements. The most common wall panel materials include plastic, aluminum, and steel. Note that the steps leading to the pool are not part of the wall panels.

Pool base:

The majority of vinyl pool contractors use grout or vermiculite to construct the bottom of the pool. They use a trowel with a round edge to apply the material over the soil. Afterward, they put the liner over it.

Vinyl liner:

The pool liner is made from vinyl material. Liners come in different sizes and thicknesses. But most of them come in thicknesses of approximately 20, 27, 28, and 30 mils. Pool experts advise purchasing an embossed liner that is 20 mil in thickness. Liners are usually prone to wear and tear after several years of use. Nonetheless, thicker liners offer better durability.

Steps:

Another component of a vinyl liner pool is steps. Steps in a vinyl liner pool can come in different forms. More often than not, contractors use white plastic steps for vinyl pools. The white plastic steps are made of a polymer material and connected directly to the pool walls. On the other hand, ladders are put up at the edge of the pool and are often removable. Vinyl over steps is usually pre-manufactured and come in a wide range of designs.

Coping:

Vinyl liner pools also have to cope around the top of the pool. The coping acts as a transition material from the pool to the patio. Pool experts often use white aluminum C-channel coping. Coping comes in a wide array of colors. Thus, you can always choose the one that matches your pool.

How much is the cost of vinyl liner pools?

Generally, vinyl liner pools are the cheapest upon purchase. However, you’ll have to spend a lot of maintenance costs on them. On average, the cost of a vinyl liner pool is $25, 000 to $40,000 upon purchase. Needless to say, this cost varies depending on various factors, like the shape and size of the pool.

Pros of a vinyl liner pool

Before installing a vinyl liner pool, you need to understand all the advantages and disadvantages offered by this pool. Below are some of the advantages of vinyl liner pools.

Low initial cost:

The main benefit of vinyl liner pools is their low purchase costs. Compared to other pool types, vinyl liner pools are the cheapest. As a result, they work for homeowners who have a limited budget.

Fast construction:

It takes approximately four to eight weeks to build a vinyl liner pool. Therefore, you can construct a vinyl liner pool within a short period of time. Consider this pool type if you want to construct your pool before summer.

Customizable shape:

Did you know that you can customize a vinyl liner pool into different shapes and designs? Although not as highly customizable as gunite pools, vinyl pools offer good versatility. You can always create rectangular, round, oval, or kidney-shaped vinyl liner pools.

Smooth liner surface:

Unlike concrete pools, vinyl liner pools have a smooth liner. Subsequently, they are smooth to the touch. Swimmers find it more comfortable to swim in a vinyl liner pool compared to a gunite pool.

Vinyl Liner Pool Disadvantages

Less durability:

Although vinyl liner pools are affordable, you’ll have to replace their liner every four to seven years. This is because the liner is susceptible to wear and tear. Replacing a liner costs approximately $4,000 to $4,500. Therefore, you may end up with high maintenance costs.

Not compatible with salt systems:

If your vinyl pool has metal wall panels, it cannot accommodate a saltwater system. This is because the salt is likely to cause severe corrosion on the panels.

Harbor Algae Growth:

Vinyl liner pools are more susceptible to algae. Some parts of the pool, like the white plastic steps, are ideal spots for algae growth. Thus, you need to use preventive algaecides frequently.

Conclusion

Ultimately, vinyl liner pools offer good functionality. However, you need to hire a reputable pool construction company like Your Backyard Haven to install this pool for you. At Your Backyard Haven, we have experienced pool contractors who deliver quality vinyl liner pool installation. Contact us today!