How To Choose Beaded or Overlap Swimming Pool Liners for Above Ground Pools

Swimming pool liners are an integral part of above ground swimming pools. While pool liners are made to withstand harsh weather and heavy usage for many years, it's unavoidable that they will eventually need to be replaced. When choosing a new liner for your above ground swimming pool, there are certain steps you will need to take in order to ensure that you purchase the right liner for your pool. While you always have to keep function in mind when shopping for above ground swimming pool liners, it's also important to think about style. With an array of attractive patterns and designs available, above ground pool liners can set the tone for the decor of your outdoor space or pool area.

When you're in the market for a new pool liner, the first step is to determine the type of liner that your pool requires. Above ground swimming pools are designed to accommodate either beaded pool liners or overlap pool liners. The difference between the two types is how they are installed at the top of the pool wall. Beaded pool liners have a groove that runs along the liner's entire top edge. When installing beaded liners, the groove snaps into a track that goes along the top inside edge of the pool wall. This track is also known as a bead receiver and serves to secure the liner. If your swimming pool is designed to accommodate a beaded liner, the track will be visible when you look under the top rail located on the inside of the swimming pool.

On the other hand, your pool may be designed for overlap pool liners. These liners are installed by removing the pool's top rail and draping the liner's fabric over the walls. Plastic clips are then used to hold the liner in place along the top of the wall. Once that is done, the top rails are replaced. If there is excess liner hanging down on the outside of the pool walls, it can simply be trimmed off. If your above ground swimming pool is meant to accommodate an overlap liner, you should be able to see the liner hanging down on the outside of the pool if you look under the top rail.

Once you know whether you should be looking at beaded pool liners or overlap pool liners, the next step is to determine what size and shape your new liner needs to be in order to fit your pool. Most retailers offer both types of liners for round above ground swimming pools and oval above ground swimming pools. To determine the proper size for your beaded or overlap liner, simply check the specifications in the material that came with your pool when you purchased it or use a measuring tape to carefully measure on your own.

After you have figured out the type, shape and size that your new liner will need to be, it's time to start thinking about quality and price ranges. Vinyl above ground pool liners are available in a number of different grades. The various grades refer to the thickness and durability of the liner. Naturally, the thicker the liner, the more likely it is to withstand wear and tear and last longer. However, thicker liners will also be more expensive. Although it's typically worth it to invest in a more durable liner, everyone has different budgets and should choose according to their needs and means. The grade or thickness of a liner is usually presented as its gauge. The higher the gauge, the thicker the liner.

Having taken care of all the practical choices in determining the type, size, shape, quality and price range of your new swimming pool liner, it's time to move on to the most fun step of thinking about style. Beaded above ground pool liners and overlap pool liners are available in a multitude of eye-catching designs and patterns that will add a bright splash of color and class to your swimming pool and outdoor area. While all types of above ground swimming pool liners are available in solid blue, you can also choose from designs that will make your pool look like it is lined with tiles or stones. Other available design choices include aquarium patterns featuring brightly colored fish and a variety of different swirl patterns. With such a great selection of attractive designs to choose from, it's easy to use above ground pool liners to add a special stamp to your pool and backyard.

Once you have purchased a new swimming pool liner for your above ground pool, you will have to decide whether you are going to have the liner professionally installed or whether you will install it on your own. Keep in mind that installation may not be as easy as it looks and that the function and durability of your liner can be compromised if not installed properly. As a result, it's often a good idea to carefully watch and observe a professional liner installation before attempting to carry one out on your own.