The service life of a vinyl pool liner is an important characteristic. After all, the future costs of operating, repairing or renovating the pool depend on it. Therefore, any factors that may affect longevity should be taken into consideration. One such factor may be the color of the PVC membrane. It should be taken into account that the color of the membrane practically determines only its appearance, and in no way affects the functional properties of the liner – waterproofing of the pool bowl.
But the color of the liner over time can change. And the main factors under the influence of which this happens are:
- Disturbance of the chemical balance of the water in the pool
- Influence of UV radiation
Why Liner Color Changes Over Time
Chlorine, which is added to pool water to eliminate pathogenic bacteria and germs, also affects the liner. If the concentration of chlorine is too high, it adversely affects not only human skin, causing irritation, but also the PVC liner. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of chlorine in pool water causes the liner to discolor. This is primarily noticeable on dark-colored liners.
This is not to say that lighter colored liners are not affected and faded in the same way. It’s just not as noticeable on a lighter colored liner. From this point of view, it can be discussed that light colored liners are more practical. On the other hand, stains, various debris (grass, leaves, insects) are more noticeable on a light-colored background. This leads to the need for regular cleaning of the pool. This circumstance cannot be called negative. Since regular care of the liner prolongs its service life.
Dark shades of the liner on the contrary make less visible small debris in the water, stains and dirt on the walls and bottom of the pool. This can lead to less frequent need for cleaning and maintenance. And kind of saves time and money. On the other hand, not regularly caring for the liner leads to an accumulation of problems and, as a result, more expense to fix them later on.
As for the effect of UV radiation on the liner of different colors, it has the same effect on the liner as chlorine.
If we talk about the practical side of liner color, you should know such points. There is an opinion that the color of the liner affects the temperature of the water in the pool. Light shades of liner have the ability to reflect the sun’s rays. Thanks to this, the water in the pool practically does not heat up. This property comes in handy if your pool is constantly exposed to the sun, and you like cool water.
The dark color of the liner, especially the pool black liner unlike the light color, absorbs infrared heat radiation from the sun. Due to this property, additional heating of the water occurs. It can be insignificant, by 1–3 degrees. But it is still better than nothing. So if your pool is in the shade most of the day, and you like warm water, a dark-colored liner may be your choice.
What Affects the Liner’s Lifespan
It’s not primarily the color of the liner that affects its lifespan, but characteristics such as these:
- Thickness
- Reinforcement
- The presence of a layer of protective varnish
A prime example of such a membrane is the Cefil 60 mil pool liner. It has a service life of 20+ years with regular proper maintenance.
The large thickness and reinforcing layer guarantee high durability, resistance to stretching, cuts and punctures. Even cracks in the concrete pool bowl will not lead to loss of tightness and water leakage.
And the presence of a layer of protective acrylic varnish with antibacterial additives on the outer surface of the membrane significantly reduces the risk of stains of various origins.
Where to Buy a Quality Pool Liner
In SAKKO POOL company you can buy high-quality liners from European manufacturer at affordable prices. There is a wide selection of collections of all possible shades, patterns and textures.
Here you can not only buy a liner, but also order its installation with a guarantee for 10 years. And remember, if you ever need pool resurfacing, we’re always here to assist you. We provide consultations, assess the condition of the pool, and give recommendations on all issues and much more.
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12 Comments
Wyatt Monroe
How does the color of a thick reinforced PVC membrane affect its longevity in the pool?
Konstantin Muraviov
Hello Wyatt! The longevity of the PVC membrane is mainly affected by the chemical balance of the water and how long the pool is exposed to direct sunlight. In other words, exposure to UV rays. This can involve a loss of appearance rather than the functionality of the liner. If the membrane is dark, and the pool is constantly in the sun, it is in danger of fading faster than if the pool is in the shade. If the pool is constantly in the shade, however, the chemical balance of the water comes first. This is not to say that light colored membranes don’t fade. It’s just that it’s not as noticeable on a light-colored background as it is on a dark background.
Hank Forrester
Are thick, dark-colored PVC membranes more durable than light-colored membranes?
Konstantin Muraviov
Hi Hank! If we talk about the durability of PVC membranes of dark and light colors, then first it is necessary to pay attention to the operating conditions. If the pool with a dark-colored membrane is in the sun, then visually such a lining fades faster than light-colored. If the pool most of the time is in the shade – the differences between the dark and light colored membrane will be almost invisible. If it is an indoor pool, where there are no UV rays, the color of the membrane has no effect on its durability.
Chase Brantley
Can the color of a thick reinforced PVC membrane affect its resistance to chemical deterioration in swimming pools?
Konstantin Muraviov
Hello Chase! The durability of PVC membrane is greatly influenced by the chemical composition of water. Namely, its chlorine content. Exceeding its norm has a negative effect on the membrane. And this or that color in no way reduce this impact. Another thing is that the increased chlorine content is visually more noticeable on dark membranes than on light-colored membranes.
Logan Shepherd
What colors of PVC liners best resist algae growth to maintain pool longevity?
Konstantin Muraviov
Hello Logan! The smooth, non-porous surface of the PVC liner plays a decisive role in the fight against algae growth. On such a surface it is difficult for algae to gain a foothold to be able to multiply. Also from such a surface algae can be easily and simply removed with a soft brush. The color of the membrane is not decisive.
Nash Hollister
Are there specific colors of thick PVC liners that enhance pool safety and durability?
Konstantin Muraviov
Hi Nash! Light colors of liners, such as bright blue, promote good visibility underwater. This is especially important for public pools so that maintenance staff can spot health hazards to swimmers in time. On the other hand, lighter-colored liners show debris and stains better, which in turn leads to the need for cleaning. And regular pool cleaning extends the life of the pool.
Rowan Talbot
What role does PVC membrane thickness play in maintaining color durability?
Konstantin Muraviov
Hey Rowan! The thicker the membrane, the more resistant it is to wear and color retention during use. For example, a thick 60 mil reinforced PVC membrane is significantly more durable than a 20 mil liner.