Expandable liner question

by Todd D.
(Edwardsburg, MI)

What is the best way to install an expandable liner for a new 33 foot above ground pool? I have about 8 years experience installing above grounds, but very little experience with expandable liners. And also what is average depth for deep end? Any tips will help.
THANKS

Hi Todd, I would start by reviewing this page. There are some good photos of an
expandable liner being installed.

A big factor in the outcome of the job will be the type of expandable liner you are working with. Some are big and baggy and are impossible to keep the wrinkles out of. A Doughboy, or similar brand can be installed wrinkle free. They are a true expandable, not just big and baggy.

Deep ends on round pools can be done one of two ways. The center can be dug out with just a two foot ledge around the outer edge. The ledge can be more than two foot but not less than. You need plenty of solid level ground for the pool frame to sit on. The slope should be gradual towards a flat area in the center. The depth can be anywhere from 6" to 2'6". The liner will expand as needed if properly installed.

The second type of deep end is the more difficult of the two to install a wrinkle free liner into. This is where half the pool is deep and the other half shallow. Since the shape is not symmetrical it can very easily cause problems with some types of expandable liners.

It is critical with expandable liners that they be installed on a sunny day. The pool frame should always be used to support the liner while the water is stretching it. If wrinkles do occur you need to be in the pool working them out as the water is filling. There is nothing you can do with a wrinkle once you have 6" or more water over it. The idea is to never have to get in the pool but sometimes it has to be done.