Whether you are installing an above ground pool for the first time or simply looking for a replacement liner for your current swimming pool, it helps to know what your options are in above ground swimming pool liners. By understanding the different types of liners available, you will be better equipped to choose the best one for your needs. We've got the lowdown on above ground pool liners so you will be able to shop for your swimming pool supplies like a pro.

Overlap Liners

As the name suggests, overlap pool liners lap over the top of the swimming pool and hang down on the sides. The liners use coping strips to hold them in place, which come in a couple of different varieties, depending on your preference. The overlapping sides are hidden by the outer wall of the pool, which is installed after the liner if held firmly in place with the coping strips on top. Overlap liners come in varying degrees of thickness, and also display a wide array of styles and colors so you can find the one that coordinates best with the rest of your outdoor living space. For more unusual pool shapes and sizes, you can opt for an expandable overlap liner that is designed to accommodate a deeper than average above ground pool. To install an overlap liner, it is important to first remove pool ledges, top plates, seat clamps and the upper rail.

Beaded Liners

Instead of overlapping over the top of the pool wall, beaded liners go up to the top of the wall and snap into place there. The beaded liners come in two different heights to accommodate most above ground pool models. These liners are generally more decorative than overlap liners, but they only offer one vinyl thickness to choose from. Beaded liners tend to be a little easier to install because hardware does not have to be removed first and the liner simply snaps into place. If you currently have a pool that accommodates an overlap liner, you can covert it by installing a bead receiver into the wall of your swimming pool.

Unibead Liners

This liner can work as a common beaded liner, but it is flexible to fit into more unusual pool sizes. Unibead liners come in more sizes than beaded liners, but they only offer one thickness of vinyl. Like beaded liners, unibead liners are easy to install and come in a wide variety of decorative styles to dress up your outdoor space. You can adjust a unibead liner to fit your swimming pool by simply tearing the liner at the dotted lines included to create the custom fit your pool needs. Unibead liners are less common than beaded and overlap liners and may be more difficult to find through swimming pool retailers.

Finding the right above ground swimming pool liner will ensure your backyard pool continues to get the best use possible. By understanding the different types available and the pros and cons for each, you are better equipped to choose the best liner for your individual needs.