Can I add steps to an existing vinyl liner pool?

Yes, you can! That was the answer that this homeowner in Walled Lake, Michigan received when they inquired about steps as an option. The only time you can add steps is if you are doing a liner replacement. There are several options for adding steps to a pool. Many manufacturers now make steps out of steel and plastic that you can add to the pool, and then have the liner made to fit. In this case, the steps were actually poured across the shallow end of the pool with concrete, making a very unusable and complicated entry pool into something much easier to step into for everyone, including children, adults, the elderly, and even the pets! The steps are also large enough to offer seating for swimmers in the pool. This renovation of an existing pool really has changed the look, feel and function of the pool, allowing the homeowner to have a much longer life to the pool and even more enjoyment! If you’d like, just Ask the Pool Guy what might be a good fit your your pool!

Liner Job 2011 done by Pietila Pools Services
Liner Job 2011 done by Pietila Pools Services

Here’s a before photo. Notice how the only option into the pool was to jump, or to use the ladder on the right hand side.

Swimming Pool Liner Replacement by Pietila Pools Services
Swimming Pool Liner Replacement by Pietila Pools Services - The Before

Then look at the new steps going into this pool:

Swimming Pool Liner Replacement by Pietila Pools Services
Swimming Pool Liner Replacement by Pietila Pools Services and the New Poured Concrete Steps
Swimming Pool Liner Replacement by Pietila Pools Services
Swimming Pool Liner Replacement by Pietila Pools Services and the Liner during Installation

The steps were set first and screwed into place with rod pockets built into the back of the vinyl liner material. Then the rest of the liner was put into place per normal liner installation methods. The finished product looks great! (A PRail was installed at the middle of the shallow end to allow a hand rail/grab rail for bathers entering the pool.)

Liner Job 2011 done by Pietila Pools Services
Liner Job 2011 done by Pietila Pools Services

This homeowner is a very satisfied customer. It’s funny…they had been used to looking at the same faded, really light blue almost white liner for so many years, they didn’t expect the pool to turn out so pretty with the new liner. Well it did! We would never let you settle for anything less than exceptional!

Author: Ask the Pool Guy