How to Get Your Pool Liner Back in the Track

If you have an inground vinyl liner pool, you may occasionally find that your liner has come out of its track. This can happen due to low water levels, age of the liner, or even just normal wear and tear.

Fortunately, getting your liner back in the track is often a DIY job you can handle yourself.

Why Pool Liners Come Out of the Track

Pool liners are designed to fit snugly in a track system around the perimeter of your pool. The liner stays in place through water pressure and the track’s grip. However, several factors can cause the liner to slip out:

• Low water level: When water drops below the skimmer, there’s less pressure holding the liner in place
• Aging liner: Older liners become less flexible and may shrink slightly
• Temperature changes: Cold weather can cause the vinyl to contract
• Poor installation: If the liner wasn’t properly seated initially

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Your Pool Liner

1. Check Your Water Level

Before attempting any repairs, make sure your pool’s water level is at least halfway up the skimmer opening. Low water is often the root cause of liner problems.

2. Use Warm Water to Soften the Liner

Here’s a helpful tip: Pour warm (not hot) water around the area where the liner has detached from the track. The warm water will help the vinyl liner stretch and become more pliable. This makes it much easier to pull the liner back into position.

3. Gently Pull the Liner Back

With the liner softened by warm water, carefully grab the edge of the liner and pull it up and back into the track. Work slowly and avoid using excessive force, which could tear the vinyl.

4. Smooth Out Air Bubbles

Once you’ve got the liner back in the track, smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles behind the liner. These can create weak spots that may cause the liner to pop out again.

5. Check the Entire Perimeter

Walk around your entire pool and check that the liner is properly seated in the track all the way around. Sometimes fixing one section can cause problems elsewhere.

When to Call a Professional

While this is often a DIY fix, you should consider calling a pool professional if:

• The liner keeps coming out repeatedly
• You notice tears or significant damage to the vinyl
• The liner appears to be too small for the pool
• You’re uncomfortable working with pool equipment

Preventing Future Problems

To keep your liner in the track:

• Maintain proper water levels year-round
• Avoid draining your pool completely unless absolutely necessary
• Keep your pool chemistry balanced to prevent liner damage
• Consider replacing aging liners before they become problematic

Remember, vinyl liners typically last 8-10 years with proper care. If your liner is older and frequently coming out of the track, it may be time to consider a replacement.

By following these steps and using the warm water technique, you should be able to get your liner back in the track and keep your pool looking great.

3 Ways We Can Help With Your Pool

1. Pool Care Cheat Sheets (Free): Easy-to-use downloadable guides to help you keep track of taking care of your pool this year.
2. The Pool Care Handbook: An illustrated guide to DIY pool care, including water chemistry, maintenance, troubleshooting, and more.
3. The Pool Care Video Course: You’ll get 30+ step-by-step videos and a downloadable guide with everything you need to know about pool maintenance.