How To Patch A Pool

Regardless of whether your pool has gotten a leak or you simply want to prepare in the event that it does, making sure that you’re well aware of how to patch a pool is one of the most important aspects of pool maintenance - especially if your pool is made of vinyl!

As we’re sure you’re already well aware, when it comes to above-ground pools, there are a variety of things that can cause them to tear. From sharp objects and sticks that can cause a leak, pool cleaning products can also wear down the liner after prolonged use, too. So, what can you do?

If you’re currently wondering how to patch a pool, then you’ve come to the right place. To make sure that you know how to quickly and effectively patch your pool in the event of a tear, you’ll find step-by-step instructions on what to do below. So, whenever you’re ready, let’s jump straight in.

How To Patch A Pool: Step-By-Step Instructions

Regardless of what type of vinyl or PVC pool you have, the good news is that they are all relatively simple to patch - especially in the event of an emergency! However, knowing how to do it and what to do can be quite confusing, especially if you’ve never needed to patch up a pool before.

So, to make the process as simple as can be, read on for some simple steps on how to patch up your pool below:

Gather Your Tools!

First things first, you’re going to need to make sure that you have all of the necessary equipment at hand, otherwise, you’re going to struggle to contain the leak and effectively patch it as soon as you notice it.

For this reason, we recommend that you take the time to purchase all of the tools you might need prior to a leak even occurring, as this will ensure that you’re prepared in the event of an emergency.

For complete convenience, we recommend opting for a pool patching kit, such as the Swimline Vinyl Pool Patch Kit, as this will contain everything you need while also offering excellent value for money. In addition to a pool patch kit, you could also opt to buy pool tape, as this will help to strengthen the patched area.


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Prepare The Pool

So, after you’ve got all the equipment that you’ll need and you’re ready to begin patching, the next step is to make sure that your pool is prepared, and you’re well aware of where the tear is.

Locate the area(s) in need of repair, and make an inspection of whether you will be able to patch your pool yourself, or if professional help might be needed.

It is worth keeping in mind that some pool manufacturers have a clause in their warranties that renders them null and void if you try to repair pool tears yourself, so we recommend that you take the time to make a well-informed decision before you proceed.

As a side note, if you are suspecting that your pool is leaking but you are unable to find the tear, then we recommend that you use a dye detection product, such as the EcoClean Solutions Red Water Tracing & Leak Detection Fluorescent Dye

This innovative product will allow you to quickly detect the area(s) of the pool experiencing a leak by alerting you to the torn area via the bright fluorescent dye.


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Patch The Pool

If you’re happy to go ahead, then the next step is to patch the pool! As a general rule of thumb, you will need to take the patching adhesive from your kit and spread it over your patch.

Once you have allowed it to become sticky after a period of around 10 minutes, you will then need to place the patch under the water and then apply it firmly to the area of the liner that contains the tear.

However, please keep in mind that the instructions above are to be taken as general advice. For the best results, we recommend that you ensure to follow all of the instructions provided to you by the manufacturer of the pool patch kit.

Of course, if you’re ever in doubt about fixing your pool yourself, then we recommend either reaching out to your manufacturer to see if they can send a maintenance repair person or by seeking the help of a professional who specializes in pool repair and maintenance.

What To Do If The Patching Doesn’t Work

If, after following the recommended steps above, you discover that the patching is not working as you had hoped, then there are a variety of reasons as to why that might be the case.

One of the first things to do is consider how old your pool is, and whether or not you might need to replace it. 

For the most part, most vinyl pools are designed to offer many years of service, but if you happen to have a pool that is over five years old, then it might be a good idea to drain the pool and look for a newer alternative.

On the other hand, if your pool is relatively new and the only issue seems to be the efficacy of the patch, then we first recommend double-checking that your pool has been correctly leveled on the surface it is on top of.

It’s very important that above-ground pools are given a sturdy, flat, and leveled foundation, otherwise, a variety of problems can begin to occur (including tears). However, if this doesn’t seem to be the problem, then the next step is to contact the manufacturer to see if there is a faulty issue with the pool.

As a side note, if you happen to have a warranty with your pool, then we recommend checking it to see what the manufacturer’s terms are for leaking.