virgin vinyl<\/a>. Yet, what differentiates one brand from the other is its external acrylic coat. The more resilient the coating, the longer the liner will last.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThickness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n The thickness of pool liners is either measured in gauge or millimeters, depending on the manufacturer. Most thicknesses are between 20 and 30 gauge thick. A 30 gauge pool liner is around 26 millimeters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
20 gauge is the standard size. It provides basic protection for your pool and comes with a budget-friendly price tag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The downside is that they\u2019re thin, making them more susceptible to tears and cuts. They can only last a few summers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A gauge that\u2019s 25 and above is made with thicker vinyl. These liners are typically more durable and can last up to 10 years. Yet, they\u2019re more expensive. Also, the extra weight may make setting them up more difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Size<\/h3>\n\n\n\n To know the right size of pool liner, it\u2019s vital that you know the size of your pool. Try to avoid buying smaller-sized liners. They can cause the pool walls to buckle once you fill the pool with water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other hand, oversized liners can cause folds in the material. Over time, these folds collect debris and dirt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Design<\/h3>\n\n\n\n Pool liners were only available in plain blue. Nowadays, you can find them in all types of 3D printed designs and vibrant colors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pro-tip: light colors and patterns are better suited for hot areas. However, if you live in a cold region, opt for dark-colored liners. They\u2019ll help absorb heat from the sun and retain it. It\u2019s the logical and affordable way to heat your pool naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Type<\/h3>\n\n\n\n There are two basic types of pool liners. Read ahead to find out more about each type so you can determine which one best suits your above-ground pool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
– Overlap Liners<\/h4>\n\n\n\n Overlap liners are the first-ever liner types; they started it all! To install, place the liner in the center of the pool. Next, stretch out the edges. Then, clip the liner in place along the top of the pool walls using coping strings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Overlap liners suit almost any pool shape or depth. Best of all, they\u2019re more affordable than other types of liners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their one drawback is they\u2019re designed to hang down along the outer sides of the pool wall. Some users find it takes away from the aesthetics of their pool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
– Beaded Liners<\/h4>\n\n\n\n As their name implies, standard beaded liners need bead tracks, or receivers, to set them up. These bead receivers are attached to the pool wall. Then, the liner is attached to the tracks to keep them in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They\u2019re also known as snap bead liners because they simply snap in place. Installation is easier and quicker than overlap liners. Their only downside is they cost more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beaded pool liners come in three varieties:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nJ-Hook\/V-Bead<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\nJ-hook and V-bead liners feature hooks that connect the liner to the highest point of the pool wall without the need for any bead receiver. They work best in smaller-sized pools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
EZ-Bead<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\nEZ-bead liners are two beads in one. You can use it as the J-Hook liner by hanging it on the pool wall. The second option is to connect it to standard bead receivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For added security, you can use both installation methods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Uni-Bead<\/span><\/h5>\n\n\n\nUniversal bead liners, or uni-bead, consist of U-shaped edges that you attach to the tops of your pool wall. They\u2019re a combination of both J-hook and standard bead liners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\nFAQs About Swimming Pool Liners<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nHere are some common questions regarding above-ground pool liners. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Q: What Are Above-Ground Pool Liners Made Of?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n A: Manufacturers typically use virgin vinyl to make above-ground pool liners. The edge seams are double-welded for added durability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some companies use Lamiclear technology. This adds a UV-resistant layer to the liner for extra protection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Q: How Long Will My Pool Liner Last?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n A: Many liners come with a 15 to 20-year warranty. Nevertheless, the average lifespan of a pool liner can be anywhere from 6 to 10 years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Q: Can I Patch Leaks On My Pool Liner?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n A: Yes! If you spot the leaks early on, you can patch them using a pool kit patch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, this mainly depends on the age of your liner. If it\u2019s only several years old, it makes sense to try and patch it up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yet, if the liner is more than 10 years old and is already showing signs of thinning? Then, it\u2019s time to look for a replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s worth noting that patches are a temporary solution. They may last for a couple of years at most. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Q: Should I Put Anything Between The Pool Liner And The Swimming Pool Itself?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n A: There\u2019s a protective layer that goes between the ground and the liner. It helps preserve the integrity of the liner and reduces the risk of tears and punctures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This layer can be a padded foam liner. This comes in rolls that are trimmed to size. The second option is a geotextile liner pad. It\u2019s available as a single sheet that\u2019s typically precut.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Q: How To Replace Above Ground Pool Liners?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n A: Below is our team’s recommended step-by-step process for proper above ground swimming pool liner replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nFully Drain Your Swimming Pool Of Water<\/li>\n\n\n\n Remove All Pool Accessories\/Plates Attached Over The Liner<\/li>\n\n\n\n Use a Box Cutter or Utility Knife To Carefully Remove Cut & Remove The Existing Swimming Pool Liner<\/li>\n\n\n\n Clean The Pool Floor And Walls Thoroughly, While Also Repairing Any Cracks or Holes if Needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n Measure, Cut, and Install The New Pool Liner, Smoothing It Out As You Go To Remove Wrinkles<\/li>\n\n\n\n Help Fit The Pool Liner Using A Vacuum (This Is Done By First Duct Taping All The Openings & Then Using A Shop Vac To Vacuum Between the Lines and The Swimming Pool Wall).<\/li>\n\n\n\n Fill The Pool With 6 inches of Water, then Remove the Duct Tape and Turn Your Shop Vac Off, Continue To Fill With Water Until Full.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\nQ: Where Do You Buy Above Ground Swimming Pool Liners?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n A: The majority of above ground swimming pool liners are purchased online, however if you live near a pool supply store, it is likely they have them there. However, since many of us do not live close to a swimming pool supply store, our team’s recommendation is to shop on Amazon or PoolSupplies.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Q: How Do You Find Leaks In Pool Liners?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n A: There are a few ways to detect and identify leaks within swimming pool liners, but our team’s preferred method is to simply hand touch or walk along the floor of your pool to feel for any bubbly or squishy areas, which usually are caused by leaks in the liner. You can also use non-toxic food coloring by placing it in the pool water to help identify where eddies or ripples appear, which will usually lead to a the leak or cracked area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Q: Who Makes The Best Above Ground Pool Liners?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n While this is a extremely subjective question, and there are many great pool liner companies out there, we prefer Smartline pool liners. They are durable, affordable and come in a variety of sizes and designs, making them a great option for above ground pool owners to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n