Restoring your Brookfield pool with a new liner is one of the most effective ways to bring new life to your backyard oasis. Over time, liners can crack, fade, or leak, leaving your pool looking tired and costing you money in repairs. Doing the replacement yourself can save you a bundle and isn’t as complicated as it might seem, as long as you take it step by step. Here’s how you can tackle this job like a pro.
Assessing the Current Condition of Your Pool Liner
Before you start tearing anything out, it’s important to take a close look at your current liner. Walk around the pool and inspect for obvious signs of wear, like fading, cracks, wrinkles, or areas where the liner has pulled away from the walls. If you notice leaks or persistent damp spots around the pool, that’s a sure sign your liner isn’t holding up anymore. Sometimes, liners can get brittle from years of sun exposure, and you might see small tears starting to form around the waterline or steps.
Don’t forget to check the condition of your pool’s structure itself. A worn-out liner can sometimes hide bigger issues, like rusted pool walls or degraded coping strips. If you spot any rust or obvious damage, make a note so you can address these repairs while the liner is out. Taking a few extra minutes here can save you a lot of trouble down the line, and ensure your new liner lasts as long as possible.
Gathering the Right Tools and Materials for Replacement
Once you’ve confirmed a new liner is needed, gather all the necessary tools and materials before draining the pool. You’ll need a new liner sized and shaped to fit your Brookfield pool—double-check your measurements and style (overlap, beaded, or unibead). You’ll also want to pick up a liner installation kit, which should include coping strips, wall foam (if needed), adhesive, and a patch kit for any minor repairs to the pool walls.
As for tools, you’ll need a utility knife, screwdrivers, duct tape, a shop vacuum (to help fit the liner snugly), and a garden hose. Vinyl liner vacuums make it easier to pull the liner into the right place, but for most homeowners, a regular wet/dry vac will do. Make sure you have at least one helper on hand—lining up a new pool liner is a two-person job. Taking time to gather everything up front means you won’t be scrambling mid-project.
Safely Removing the Old Pool Liner Step by Step
Start by draining the pool completely. A submersible pump can clear the water fastest, but a regular pool pump works with a little patience. Once empty, remove any ladders, lights, and faceplates for skimmers or returns. Keep the screws organized; you’ll need them again for reassembly.
Carefully cut the old liner into manageable sections using a sharp utility knife. If your pool has an overlap liner, remove the coping strips and peel the liner off the walls. For beaded liners, gently pop the bead from the track, working your way around. Take care not to damage the pool wall or coping, as these parts are reused. Once the liner is out, inspect the floor and walls for any sharp debris, rough spots, or rust. Patch up any minor issues, and sweep the pool clean before installing the new liner.
Installing and Securing the New Pool Liner Properly
Lay the new liner in the sun for a few hours so it becomes more flexible and easier to work with—this is especially important on a cool Wisconsin day. Start by spreading the liner out in the pool, making sure the seams line up with the corners and features. For overlap liners, hang the edge evenly over the pool wall and secure it with coping strips. If you have a beaded liner, tuck the bead securely into the track all the way around.
Work out as many wrinkles as possible by hand, starting at the center and pushing air out toward the walls. Place your shop vac hose behind the liner at the skimmer opening and run the vacuum to suck out air, pulling the liner tight against the pool structure. Once satisfied, begin filling with water while continuing to smooth wrinkles. As the water rises, the liner will stretch into place. Only cut out holes for skimmers, returns, and fittings once the water level is just below each opening—this keeps the liner taut and prevents misalignment.
Replacing your Brookfield pool’s liner takes some elbow grease, but with patience and the right approach, you can get professional-looking results. By carefully assessing your pool, preparing with the right tools, taking your time with removal, and installing the new liner properly, you’ll extend the life of your pool and enjoy a fresh, inviting backyard centerpiece for years to come. If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local pool builder for advice or a helping hand. Good luck, and happy swimming!
