Above Ground Swimming Pool Liners

Above ground pools are great options not only when one has a limited budget, but also when one does not wish to have the entire backyard dug up. Moreover, installation of above ground pools are easier as compared to the other types of swimming pools. However, just installing a pool is not enough. One has to take into consideration the problems emerging with time. Since, the sides of the swimming pool are prone to most of the abuse during the life of the pool, it is advisable to choose a pool liner, which increases the life and durability of the pool. Swimming pool liners can be bought for new pools or to replace the liners of an existent pool. The role of the above ground pool liners is to prevent the pool water from leaking out. However, it should be noted that pool liners are not meant to, and are unable to, support the weight of the water. This function is carried out by the main pool structure. Above ground swimming pool liners are made of vinyl, which is a smooth and durable.

Types of Above Ground Swimming Pool Liners

Various types of swimming pools liners are available for different purposes. They come in different patterns and gauges, wherein higher the gauge of the pool, higher the liner will cost. This is because the higher the gauge of the pool, the stronger and thicker the pool liner will be, thus, higher the cost. The different types of liners are:

Overlap Liners: As the name rightly suggests, these above ground pool liners simply go up and over the edge of the swimming pool wall and hang down on the outside. The liner is then secured with plastic strips, also known as coping strips which hold the liner firmly in place. Coping strips are available in two forms: flat ribbon type and tube shaped type. The liner is secured with the coping strips and then finished off with a top rail. Overlap liners are available only in few colors and designs, however, they are easy to fit and are cheaper as compared to the other types.

Beaded Liners: These pool liners go up the pool wall, after which they snap into a track using the bead or welt that runs along the liners entire edge and along the top of the pool wall. Beaded liners are decorative and do not require disassembling of the top half of the pool while liner replacement. This makes them easier to install. Moreover, these liners work well in situations where large pool decks are built around the pool. Beaded liners are considered to be superior to the overlap type.

Unibead Liners: Also known as J-Hook liners, these unibead liners are a unique form of swimming pool liners. These liners not only fit any common above ground pool, but they also have dual properties. They can be hung over the pool wall like the overlap type or be used as a beaded liner.

Expandable Liners: This liner is nothing but an extremely tall pool liner. They are made in such a manner so as to accommodate the extra liner needed for deep end swimming pool area. These deep end above ground pool liners are common in circular above ground swimming pools.

How to Replace Above Ground Pool Liner?

The pool liner above the water line is bombarded with an intense amount of destructive sunlight, resulting in their weakening. Liner leaks, in above ground pool, are quite common and damaged pool liners need to be replaced. To replace the pool liner, the following steps are to be followed:

• First of all, the pool has to be drained of all the water. One could use a water hose or submersible pump to pipette out the extra water from the pool.
• The next step is to remove the stabilizer rails or top cap. The coping clips that hold the liner in place have to be undone, only then the liner will come off.
• Once the old liner has been removed, one can undertake any repairs required to the material underneath the pool, so as to make it smooth again. Usually, sand is the underlying material and it can be troweled. More sand can also be added if needed.
• Install the new pool liner by spreading it across the inside of the pool. Clip it over the top of the pool and replace the top rail.

Above ground swimming pool liners make the pool pleasant and comfortable to touch, when one comes in contact to the base and sides of the swimming pool. Good quality pool liners are remarkably resilient and not easily damaged by pool chemical treatment methods, which are necessary for the above ground pool maintenance. They also increase the usable life span of the pool, as this extra layer of protective skin strengthens the pool. It also provides an easy cleanable surface, thereby enhancing the hygiene of the pool.