Liner fell out of Pool

by Rebecca
(Chicago, IL)

Recently my 18' round pool (52" high) completely emptied after my beaded liner detached and fell. I spoke with a couple install companies who recommended an "over the wall" liner instead.

Any thoughts on this? We had slipping problems with the liner since it was installed 4 years ago, so perhaps that's why the recommendation?

We had considerable wash out and now are thinking about raising the pool up about 3" to come closer to a deck we built. What is the best way to go about this? More sand or more dirt base?

Also, being that now the pool is empty, my husband wants to install a bottom center drain. I read some links on the internet that center drains are no longer recommended as highly because of potential leaks, etc. Should we just invest in a good quality automatic pool cleaner instead? Any specific one you recommend?
Thanks in advance!!



Hi Rebecca. I do recommend an overlap liner over a beaded one. The only advantage to a beaded liner is that you do not have to pull the rails off to change it. If you had a deck out over the rails, that prevented you from removing them, a beaded liner would be the best choice, otherwise, use an overlap. They are less expensive and less trouble and you usually get a better fit.

If you are going to raise the pool use dirt or crushed granite, not sand. Use sand only under the liner as a cushion, not under the pool frame work.

I do not recommend the center drain, go with the pool cleaner instead. I like the inexpensive bug the best.

These pages might be of interest also.

Above Ground Pool Main Drain

Pool Cleaner