Pool Care /
Can You Put a Liner in a Concrete Pool?
Yes, many concrete pools can take a vinyl liner, but only if the shell is structurally sound and properly prepared. Inspection and repair come first.
Archive date: this article was written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026 and given the earlier archive date of Jun 10, 2025 so the blog reads as an organized archive. It was not published on that date.
It is true that a number of concrete pool shells can be made into vinyl liner pools, but the work requires some forethought in terms of inspection and preparation. One should not think of a liner as an expedient way to hide over cracks, a rough finish or a leak; if the structure is at fault, that has to be put right first.
Can you put a liner in a concrete pool?
For the most part, yes. Whether it is a gunite or other type of inground pool, a liner can be put in provided the floor and walls are up to the task. The deciding factor is the state of the pool structure, not simply the fact that it is concrete.
There will be cases where a liner is viable, for instance when: - The shell is in sound structural order - You have a smooth enough concrete surface - Edges, steps and fittings can be put in place without issue - There is no shifting or active leaking to speak of
Then again, some pools require resurfacing or repairs of a structural nature before a liner is even considered.
What must be checked first?
A contractor will want to inspect the pool before planning a conversion from concrete to vinyl liner. The aim is to rule out any issues that might cause leaks behind the liner or cut its life short.
1. Examine the structure for loose concrete, movement or cracks. 2. Run your eye over the wall and floor for any protrusions, sharp edges or roughness. 3. Give the fittings, skimmers, returns and the bead area a once-over. 4. Make sure the shape of the bottom, coves and deep end can be made to work with a liner. 5. Get on top of any drainage or leak sources before work commences.
Should the shell be found to be unstable or in poor repair, a liner is likely not the answer.
What kind of preparation is called for?
As a rule, the interior of a concrete pool needs to be smoothed and put in order so the new vinyl is not compromised in normal use or when the pool is filled. This could mean patching up damage and removing anything sharp from the walls and floor. Some installers may put down vermiculite or a like base on the floor system, while others have their own methods. It is best not to assume a one-size-fits-all approach; adhere to the instructions from the manufacturer and the installer’s manual for the job at hand.
Common mistakes to avoid
There are errors that will see a liner fail prematurely: - Laying it over unprepared, rough concrete - Overlooking an active loss of water or a crack - Believing the liner is a cure for structural woes - Leaving old hardware or sharp corners in its path - Failing to shut off the pump before doing maintenance or opening an access point
When checking the skimmer basket or similar equipment, the pump should be off. Wear the appropriate PPE and heed the chemical labels and manuals.
When to get a professional involved
If there are electrical faults, exposed wiring near the equipment, or you spot spalling and wide cracks in the concrete, make a call to a qualified pool pro. The same applies if the pool is leaking, the fittings are damaged, or you are in any doubt as to whether the pool can take a liner. A professional will be able to advise if a vinyl liner makes sense or if resurfacing and structural work would be the safer course. And do not swim if the water or the electrical situation is unsafe.
Sources and further reading
- [Hayward: Weekly pool maintenance](https://www.hayward.com/maintenance/weekly-pool-maintenance)