How to Repair a Hole in Vinyl Pool Liner

Swimming pools are a wonderful way to enjoy backyard family fun. They are constructed from concrete (gunite), fiberglass or vinyl. While a vinyl pool is generally the least expensive option, it is prone to tears and holes. The easiest way to patch a hole in a vinyl pool liner is with the water still in the pool. With an inexpensive underwater repair kit, some swimming goggles and a few hours to allow the patch to cure, you will be back to enjoying your aquatic playground.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pool repair kit (underwater) Rag Scissors Swimsuit Swimming goggles

1. Locate the tear in the liner. You may need to get into the pool and examine the surface wearing swimming goggles.

2. Read the patching kit instructions thoroughly before starting the job.

3. Clean debris from the area around the tear using a rag.

4. Use scissors to cut a patch for the hole. Use the vinyl from the repair kit to for the patch. Be sure it is at least 2 inches in diameter and will cover the entire hole.

5. Use applicator brush that comes with kit to apply adhesive to the back of the vinyl patch. Do not apply too much adhesive or the patch will not cure properly.

6. Fold the patch in half. The adhesive should be on the inside of the fold.

7. Enter the pool water and relocate the area in need of patching. If hole is accessible from the outside of the pool, there is no need to get into water.

8. Hold patch underwater as close to the hole as possible. Unfold patch while underwater and apply to the hole.

9. Press the patch firmly while smoothing it from the center to the outside edges. This will help remove any excess air bubbles or water from under the patch surface.

10. Let patch cure as indicated on repair kit instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Patch kit will include vinyl patching material, adhesive applicator and adhesive gel tube. Patch should be cut in circle. If the edges are squared, the patch will have a greater tendency to peel up from the pool liner. If the hole is bigger than 2 inches in diameter, the patch should be larger. However the smallest a patch should be cut is 2 inches for proper adhesion. If this method does not work, you will need to drain the pool and reapply the patch to a dry liner surface.
• Do not allow patch to slide around when smoothing it in place.