Is a 28 mil liner worth the upgrade over 20 mil for an Ottawa pool that gets heavy use from kids?

Yes, a 28 mil liner is absolutely worth the upgrade for a heavily-used Ottawa pool, especially with kids who will be rougher on the pool surface. The thicker vinyl provides significantly better puncture resistance against toys, pool games, and the inevitable dropped objects that come with active family use.

In Ottawa's climate, liner durability becomes even more critical because of our extreme freeze-thaw cycles and short replacement window. A 20 mil liner typically lasts 7 to 10 years in Ottawa conditions, while a quality 28 mil liner often reaches 10 to 15 years with proper care. Given that liner replacement costs $3,500 to $8,000 including labour, the extra $800 to $1,200 upfront for 28 mil thickness pays for itself by extending replacement intervals. More importantly, a thicker liner is less likely to fail mid-season when replacement scheduling becomes difficult.

The 28 mil thickness also handles Ottawa's temperature swings better. Our summers can hit 35°C, which makes vinyl more pliable and susceptible to stretching, while spring and fall temperatures can make liners brittle. The additional thickness provides more structural integrity during these temperature extremes. For families planning to use pool toys, diving games, or allowing pets in the pool, 28 mil is the practical choice.

One important consideration: thickness alone doesn't determine liner quality. Look for UV-resistant vinyl with antimicrobial treatment and reinforced seams. The pattern and colour also matter — darker colours show scratches more readily, while busy patterns can hide minor imperfections better.

When you're ready to move forward with your pool project, you can browse experienced pool contractors through the Ottawa Construction Network directory at justynrookcontracting.com/directory to compare options and get detailed quotes that specify exact liner specifications and warranty terms.