Different Varieties of Above-Ground Pool Liners

Over time, the design and options for above-ground pool liners have significantly evolved. Decades ago, only a single type of liner was available, typically in solid blue. Today, a diverse array of liners is accessible, featuring various colors and patterns to match different aesthetic preferences. This article explores some common types of above-ground pool liners and their features.

Overlap Liners
Overlap liners are installed with excess material draping over the pool wall. This design makes the liner visible from outside. When installing patterned overlap liners, careful attention is needed to ensure the pattern aligns evenly at the waterline.

Benefits of Overlap Liners
One key advantage of overlap liners is their lower cost compared to other types. They feature a deeper center and require sufficient surface coverage to install properly.

J Hook Liners
J hook liners have a thick U-shaped vinyl top that hooks over the pool wall, allowing the rest of the liner to hang downward, effectively covering the interior surface.

Unibead Liners
Unibead, short for universal bead liners, feature a sturdy, U-shaped vinyl top designed to work with both beaded and J hook track systems. To adapt a unibead for beaded tracks, small adjustments like tearing the U-shaped vinyl are necessary.

Beaded Liners
These liners are distinctive for their thick vinyl bead at the top. This bead fits into a track mounted on the pool’s wall, securing the liner firmly. Bead tracks are typically available in segments of four feet, facilitating easy installation by sliding the bead into the track channel.

Expandable Liners
Although called expandable, these liners are not stretchable. They are made from a higher percentage of vinyl (72%) compared to standard overlap liners (60%), providing increased durability and thickness.