When you replace an above ground pool liner, three details decide what fits: the shape and size of the pool, its wall height, and how the liner attaches to the wall. Liners come in four types, overlap, beaded, unibead, and expandable, and the right one depends on whether your wall uses coping strips or a bead receiver and whether the pool has a deep end. Most liners are made in standard round and oval sizes for 48", 52", or 54" walls, whether you are matching an existing pool or building one from an above ground pool kit. Our above ground pool liner installation guide walks through fitting a new liner, and our full selection of pool liners covers inground pools as well.
About Above Ground Pool Liners
Match the Liner Type to Your Pool Wall
Overlap liners hang over the top of the wall, where coping strips hold them in place, and the expandable liners made for deep-end pools are an overlap style. Beaded liners snap into a bead receiver track at the top of the wall, and they are not compatible with deep-end pools. Unibead liners, the most popular choice for above ground pools, have a J-hook that can hang over the wall, or they can be installed in a bead receiver like a beaded liner.
Wall Height, Water Depth, and Thickness
Each liner is made for a specific wall height, so measure your pool wall before ordering. Thickness is listed in gauge or mil depending on the manufacturer, and the two are different measurements, so compare liners that use the same one. Thicker vinyl offers more protection against damage, while thinner vinyl is more flexible and usually costs less.
Flat bottom above ground pool actual depth
- 48" pool wall = approximate 44" deep
- 52" pool wall = approximate 48" deep
- 54" pool wall = approximate 50" deep
Planning a Deeper Above Ground Pool
A deep end requires an expandable liner. The dished bottom swimming pool is deeper in the middle with a 2' or larger walk around safety ledge. The safety ledge can be smaller on round pools, but be sure to leave enough flat area for the pool ladder or wedding cake steps, and enough width for the pool's supports. Check the depth range listed for each expandable liner, such as 48" to 84", before deciding how deep to dig.
The hopper bottom swimming pool is deeper on one end with a flat shallow play area and a safety ledge around the deeper end. Round pools are generally easier to fit with a deep end because, unlike most oval pools, they do not rely on strap supports. Our above ground deep end guides cover excavation for round and oval pools.
Above Ground Pool Liners FAQs
What is the best type of above ground pool liner?
The best type depends on how your pool wall holds the liner and whether the pool has a deep end. Overlap liners are cost-effective and versatile, beaded liners offer ease of installation and replacement, and unibead liners provide dual installation options as both J-hook and beaded styles. Unibead is the most popular choice, and an expandable overlap liner is the only option for a pool with a deep end.
Can I switch to a different liner type when replacing?
Often, yes, but the new liner has to suit your pool wall. A beaded liner needs a bead receiver at the top of the wall, while a unibead liner can either hang over the wall or be used with a bead receiver, which makes it a flexible replacement choice. Changing liner types can mean buying additional parts, so review the above ground pool liner accessories you may need, and remember that a pool with a deep end still needs an expandable liner.
Do I need an expandable liner for a deep end?
Yes. Expandable liners are the only liners made for above ground pools with a deep end, and a regular liner will not work. Some expandable liners stretch into the deeper area, and others can be custom made for different bottom configurations. Installing a non-expandable liner in a pool with a deeper section can damage the liner or the pool and risks voiding the pool's warranty.
How do I know which size liner to order?
Above ground pools are built in standard sizes, and liners are made to match them. Order by your pool's shape and size, such as 24' round or 16' x 32' oval, and by its wall height, since each liner is made for a specific wall height. If the pool has a deep end, choose an expandable liner whose listed depth range covers it, and contact Royal Swimming Pools before ordering if you are unsure of any measurement.
Can I install a replacement liner myself?
Yes. For an overlap liner on a flat bottom pool, about 6" to 12" of liner overlaps the top of the wall, and coping strips hold it in place. A shop vacuum then pulls the air from behind the liner so it sits against the wall, and you adjust the overlap until the liner fits. Do not add water until it fits properly. Our guide on how to replace an above ground pool liner walks through the full process.