Do you have to drain an above ground pool to patch it?

Question

I have a small slice on the floor of the vinyl where an old patch came off.

Answer 1

There are "Underwater" patches on the market.  Basically you apply the adhesive to the patch then swim down to the tear and apply the patch over it.  They can be difficult to apply since you have to keep it from folding on to it's self before you apply it.  Plus getting underwater to where the tear is can be tricky - holding your breath and staying in one place etc.

Don't let the tear go unpatched since they have a tendency to get bigger.

Good Luck

Answer 2

Patches don't usually stick unless the vinyl is dry.

Answer 3

I would assume that  you would. The adhesive probably wouldn't work properly if you didn't.

Answer 4

No, not in my experience you don't have to drain the pool for the short term fix. Probably for a long term fix having the pool level lower than the leak might be a better idea, but it's not impossible to patch with water in.

Since it's on the floor, I wouldn't worry about draining the pool, I'd just re patch it, unless it's one of those blow up ring pools, then you might have to drain it.

Answer 5

No, you dont have to drain it, like the others stated, there are patches on the market that you can use without draining the pool

Answer 6

There are underwater patches that work effectively but nobody mentioned the fact that more than likely your pool is on top of a sharp object and it's going to puncture again just as soon as someone steps on it.

I'd drain, rake out all the stones and  to do it right, put at least 2" of sand down then re-fill. Or buy plenty of patches.

Answer 7

No, you do not have to drain any water.  Wal Mart sells  Aqua Chem Vinyl Repair  Kits for around $8.-10.00

You will have to hold your breath long enough to smooth the patch though!

This kit comes with the glue, 1 patch 6"x12" and three 3"x3" and directions.

Be sure there is no dirt around the slice, it will stick better to a clean surface.