www.oakvillebeaver.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, April 9, 2010 · 26 Spring Home and Garden Should I replace my pool liner ? When should you replace your liner? A pool liner is designed to last an average of 12 to 15 years. It is not, however, unheard of for liners to last longer than this. It is also not uncommon for liners to last less than 12 years. There are many factors which can effect the lifespan of a liner. If you live in an area that is susceptible to ground water problems, this can reduce the liner's life. Chemically balanced water in the pool is also important as improperly maintained water can severely affect the longevity and look of the liner. A liner is custom fit to your pool and it is therefore critical that the measurements taken are accurate when manufacturing a new liner. If the liner is made to incorrect specifications then the liner will not last as long as it should. There are a few reasons for replacing a liner. In the event the liner no longer holds water, i.e. it leaks, and patching is no longer an option as with age the vinyl becomes brittle and a patch will no longer bond to it. Another common reason is aesthetics, as liners get older their patterns tend to fade and new patterns also become available .It is best not to try and "squeeze" more life out of a liner as this can damage the pool structure and necessitate additional repairs. What is the best time to replace a liner? The ideal time to replace a liner is either in the spring or fall. By doing this you do not lose any of those important summer months when you want to be using the pool. The Spring, however, is usually the busiest period for liner replacements and manufacturing plants can often get backed up at this time. The usual time for manufacturing a liner is two weeks, however there have been instances during May when due to high demand a liner may take over three weeks to make. Quite often you may not have the luxury of being able to decide when to replace the liner, your hand may stretch but not too much. The installer will also note any irregularities at this point. Once the liner has been manufactured the installer will prepare the pool surface for the new liner. There are several stages to the installation such as cutting the stairs out or cutting the holes for the jets and skimmer. Most pools can be filled using tap water although in areas with wells a water truck may be preferable but can be costly. Once the installation is complete and the pool is running it is very important to have the water tested and balanced. Total Tech Pools invites you to join us in our showroom at 1380 Speers Road to see the selection of liners available. We are also proudly holding our annual sale event weekend with famous BBQ on April 24th and 25th where the lowest prices of the year are only part of the fun. For more information please call 905825-1389. be forced if you encounter irreparable problems with your old liner. In some cases your pool may only be shut down for as little as 5-7 days during the process. What is the process for replacing a liner? Once you have determined the need to replace your liner care must be taken to choose a qualified liner replacement company. Ensure you receive a written estimate and ask questions. How long has the compa- ny been replacing liners? Do they use sub-contractors? Are they members of any professional associations? Are their liners Canadian made ? Once you have chosen a reputable company a liner pattern must be chosen. Many new patterns are available but don't be overwhelmed and ask for suggestions from your installer. Next , the installer will take additional measurements to ensure the liner will fit properly. A liner should have some Turn Your Dreams into... Reality 20%off Canadian Manufacturers 4 DAYS ONLY April 9-12 Proudly Supporting Canadian Manufacturers AP Industries, Amisco, Bermex, BG Furniture, Brentwood Classics, Buhler, Continental Furniture, Dutalier, Future Chair, Huppe, Ideal, Jaymar, Tennessee, Valco, Villageois, Vogel and more Also offering Solid wood customized furniture, made to your specifications without the customized price In-home design consultation N Winston Churchill Churc 2575 Dundas St. W., Mississauga (Between Winston Churchill & Erin Mills Pkwy) Tel: 905-820-4111 · Fax: 905-820-4445 www.sterlinghouse.ca Dundas QEW Erin Mills Pkwy MISSISSAUGA HOME AND DESIGN CENTRE