What Causes Pool Liners to Wrinkle (And How to Fix It)

If you have ever noticed strange folds or creases in your pool liner, you are not alone. Wrinkles are one of the most common issues pool owners deal with, especially in vinyl-lined above ground pools. While they may seem harmless at first, wrinkles can lead to bigger problems down the line if left unchecked. In this post, we will look at what causes pool liner wrinkles and how you can fix or prevent them.

Why Do Pool Liners Wrinkle?

Wrinkles in your pool liner can form for several reasons. Some are related to installation, while others develop over time due to changes in water chemistry or weather. Here are the most common causes:

1. Poor Installation

If a liner is not stretched and smoothed properly during installation, wrinkles can form as soon as the pool fills. Liners should always be installed on a warm day when the material is soft and flexible. Using a shop vac to suction the liner into place can help create a tight, wrinkle-free fit.

2. Shifting Ground or Base

Above ground pools often sit on sand or foam padding. If the ground settles unevenly or shifts over time, it can cause the liner to bunch up. You might notice wrinkles near the walls or in areas where the base is no longer level.

3. Water Chemistry Imbalance

Unbalanced water can cause the vinyl to expand, shrink, or lose elasticity. Low pH or high chlorine levels can make the liner stiff and prone to wrinkling. Keeping your water properly balanced helps protect the liner and prevent material distortion.

4. Draining and Refilling the Pool

When you drain your pool completely, the liner can shift, shrink, or settle into a new shape. This is especially true if the pool sits empty for more than a few days. If you refill it without resetting the liner, wrinkles may appear or worsen.

5. Groundwater Pressure

In areas with high groundwater, water pressure from outside the pool can push up against the liner, causing it to lift and wrinkle. This often happens after heavy rain or if the pool has been drained during wet weather.

Are Pool Liner Wrinkles a Problem?

Some small wrinkles are mostly cosmetic, but larger folds can trap dirt, affect vacuuming, or even weaken the liner over time. If you feel wrinkles under your feet or see them growing over time, it is worth fixing the issue before it gets worse.

How to Fix Pool Liner Wrinkles

1. Warm the Liner

Wrinkles are easier to fix when the liner is warm and flexible. Try to do any adjustments on a sunny day when temperatures are higher. A solar cover can help trap heat overnight.

2. Gently Smooth Them Out

Use a soft-bristled pool brush or broom to push wrinkles toward the nearest wall. Work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the liner. Never use sharp or hard-edged tools.

3. Use a Shop Vac

If you are installing a new liner or have already drained the pool, use a shop vac behind the liner to suction it tight to the pool wall and floor. This can remove air pockets and help flatten out most creases.

4. Reposition the Liner (If Drained)

If wrinkles are severe and your pool is empty, you may need to lift and reset the liner. Gently pull the liner from the corners and reset it into place, smoothing as you go. This step may require a helper and some patience.

How to Prevent Pool Liner Wrinkles

• Always install liners on a warm day when the material is pliable
• Use a shop vac to remove air during installation
• Keep water balanced with proper pH and sanitizer levels
• Avoid draining your pool unless absolutely necessary
• Use a solid base and make sure the pool floor is level

Don't the liner wrinkles get you down

Wrinkles in a pool liner are frustrating, but they do not have to ruin your pool. With the right approach, you can smooth them out or stop them from forming in the first place. Whether you are dealing with a few small folds or a liner that needs replacing, it is always easier to act sooner than later.

Need help finding the right liner for your pool? Check out our collection or reach out to our team for expert advice.