Sooner or later, every concrete pool owner faces the need for remodeling or repairs. The reasons vary but are usually due to natural wear and aging of the materials used to line the pool. Tiles may crack or fall off, plaster can peel, and waterproof paint may start to flake. Cracks are also common, often caused by soil settling, improper construction practices, poor-quality concrete, and similar issues.
These defects can limit the pool’s usability. While loose tiles or peeling plaster primarily affect the pool’s appearance, cracks can lead to water leakage. Water leakage not only adds to maintenance costs but can also compromise the structural integrity of the pool over time. Each of these issues is a valid reason to consider immediate repairs or remodeling. However, when you calculate the cost of rebuilding a pool using tiles or plaster, it can amount to 40-50% of the price of a brand-new pool. Such a financial commitment can feel overwhelming. So, what’s the best course of action in this situation?
What Steps Are Involved in Remodeling a Concrete Pool?
When comparing the cost of remodeling a concrete pool, such as retiling, to installing a PVC liner, the difference becomes clear. The liner, along with installation labor, is much more affordable, making it an excellent value-for-money option. However, it’s important to remember that some preparatory work will be required, which might include the following steps:
- Removal of poorly adhering tile or plaster. If tiles or plaster are peeling, they must be taken off. After removal, the areas should be leveled to match the height of the surrounding surface.
- Replacement of old fittings extending into the pool bowl. This list includes: drain hole in the floor, skimmers, water supply, fittings for light bulbs. When installing a vinyl liner, special overlays with rubber seals are used on all these openings. These overlays are securely screwed on top of the liner, preventing water leaks. Made of durable plastic, they are cost-effective and reliable.
- Tidying up the pool bowl. After removing the old liner and fittings, surface irregularities may remain and must be addressed. The pool surface should be smooth and level to avoid visible defects once the PVC liner is installed. Cracks should also be sealed—not to prevent water leakage but to protect the concrete base’s structural integrity.
- Cleaning debris from the pool bowl. Debris is generated during any construction work. Therefore, all debris should be removed from the pool bowl, followed by vacuuming.
Once this work is completed, you can proceed with the installation of the vinyl liner.
Advantages of Installing a PVC Liner in a Concrete Pool
The first thing to consider is that you should not skimp when choosing the type of liner. To ensure durability for 20+ years, opt for a thick, reinforced membrane like the Cefil 60 mil pool liner. Using a PVC membrane as a liner offers these benefits:
- Inexpensive but quality remodeling of an old concrete pool. The pool gets a completely new look.
- Savings on operating costs compared to other types of pools. Thick quality PVC liners have a protective layer of acrylic lacquer. It contains antibacterial additives that inhibit the development of mold, prevent the attachment and growth of algae on the walls and bottom of the pool. Therefore, the situation with the appearance of all sorts of stains is much better than on other types of linings. And this is a great saving of time and money. Of course, you do not get rid of the need for regular maintenance of the liner. To keep it in perfect condition for years to come, weekly cleaning is recommended.
- Large variety of colors and textures. PVC liner provides a unique opportunity to create a dream pool at a fraction of the cost. You can choose a liner imitating marble, sandstone, basalt, mosaic or other natural material. The visual similarity is very high. Or simply choose a membrane of a particular color. All colors are available
- Easy replacement. If you want or need to replace the liner with another one, for example, of a different pattern or color, it is very easy to do. The old liner is removed, and the new one is installed in its place. It is simple and does not take long. Since all preparatory operations were done when installing the previous liner, it will take a minimum of time. Thus, there will be virtually no interruption in the use of the pool.
- Long service life. A quality thick reinforced liner with good care is able to last 20+ years. So it’s all up to you.
Where to Order a PVC Liner Pool Remodel
Need a quality liner that can please the pool owner for many years? SAKKO POOL offers high quality reinforced liners from European manufacturer. High European requirements to product quality guarantee long years of service with minimal operating costs.
The company’s specialists will help you to choose the optimal type of liner, calculate the estimate, advise you on maintenance and many other issues. You can see for yourself that a pool remodel is an easy and cost-effective way to reconstruct an old concrete pool.