Is this a pool repair red flag?

[javamom]

We are relative pool newbies who need to replace the vinyl liner on our old 17.5 x 34 oval pool. The pool company currently at the top of my list is a local, family-owned operation with many years of experience and an A+ BBB rating. They also have a large fencing company and we have used them several times for fence projects.

The pool was closed while very green, so we are trying to get the pool/pond clearer so they can double-check some measurements. Today they suggested that we go ahead and drain the pool so they can check the measurements and then the pool is one-step closer to being ready for installation. Is this a red flag? The liner has not been ordered yet. There is the potential the pool could stand empty for up to 3 weeks, even longer if there are any unexpected delays.

We are renovating a historic house so have had our share of good contractors and bad contractors -- hoping to find a good pool contractor for this project. Am I just being a nervous nelly about draining the pool at this point in the process? Or, is this a potential indicator that I should look at another company?

Thanks!
Trish

[aylad]

If you drain the pool (at least most of the way) the liner will eventually float, and continue to tear over time, but it's just going to be trashed anyway, so that's not a big deal. You'll stand a much better chance of getting a good liner fit if they can see the bottom clearly enough to make sure the measurements are right. If we were only talking about a few days, I might say go ahead and drain it, but 3 weeks is a long time. Of course, I'm no expert on installations, but we do have some around the forum and hopefully one of them will chime in soon.

If you have a high water table it's possible that the pool shell might float, so I wouldn't drain it completely--I'd keep at least a couple feet of water in the shallow end, but you can bleach what's left and stir it up with a broom or something to clear it enough for them to see the bottom.

Janet

[waste]

Trish, welcome to the forum!

The red flag would arise if they didn't pump out the pool and completely measure for the replacement liner

Getting a truly custom liner for your pool is the best way to ensure that it stands a chance of lasting as long as possible (and being a conscientious owner who stays on top of their water and chems)

They will also be able to asses the condition of the pool floor and walls, giving you a little 'heads up' on additional expenses.

While I'm never shy to point out when another PB is doing something wrong, I honestly think that your 'dudes' are doing things correctly and have earned their "A+" rating

I'd love to hear how it all works out for you and I hope you'll feel free to ask of me any questions you have concerning what or how they do things