Overlap swimming pool liners for above-ground pools
If you own, or are considering purchasing an above-ground swimming pool, you will almost certainly need a swimming pool liner.
The two options that you can select from are, an overlap liner or a beaded liner. Both types will add style and colour to the appearance of the pool and they will also enhance the pool's life span and performance.
Below, you will find an explanation of how an overlap swimming pool liner works and a summary of the pros and cons for choosing to use this type of liner.
How an overlap swimming pool liner works
Overlap swimming pool liners attach to the base and walls of a swimming pool in the same way as beaded liners. The difference between the two systems is in the detail that terminates, seals and completes the liner finish at the top of the swimming pool's walls.
An overlap style liner simply folds over the walls of the swimming pool and is held in place by copings or clips that are hidden underneath the top rail of the pool. Some fitters do not use copings or clips and rely solely on the top rail to secure the liner in its position (although this is far from ideal).
An overlap liner is fitted by removing the swimming pool's top rail and hanging the liner over the edge of the swimming pool's walls during fitting. Securing clips, usually made of plastic, are then used to hold the liner in place as it hangs over the pool walls. These clips are pushed down vertically over the top of the liner holding it in position as it overlaps the pool. A pool liner coping can also be used for this purpose.
Once the liner is in place and the pool has been filled, the top rail (which acts as a cosmetic and protective cover) can be replaced. Any visible excess liner that protrudes below the soffit of the top rail can be trimmed to achieve a clean finish.
Liner choice – beaded or overlap
Most variations on the above-ground swimming pool can accommodate either an overlap style liner, or a beaded style liner. The advantage of an overlap liner is primarily one of price. This style of liner is cheap to buy and it does not require some of the additional fittings, like tracks, that a beaded liner necessitates.
The “top of the pool” fixing system of an overlap liner is also simple and requires fewer man-hours to complete than a beaded liner. Ultimately, an overlap liner is a cheap and cheerful way to improve the look and feel of an above-ground swimming pool, but without enormous expense.
Overlap swimming pool liner selection
There are a number of consideration to be aware of before deciding on a specific overlap swimming pool liner.
- The first is the gauge or thickness of the swimming pool vinyl. The heavier the gauge, the more durable and long lasting the liner will be. Gauge thicknesses range from about 20 gauge to about 30 gauge. The price increases as the gauge becomes heavier.
- The second consideration is colour and style, and both of these options tend to be more limited with overlap pools than with beaded pools. Even so there is a good selection of colours and patterns available, but the golden rule is that simple and understated look expensive, and elaborate and overly colourful look cheap.
- Finally, although overlap swimming pool liners are cheaper and easier to fit than beaded liners, their installation is still one that requires and expert fitter. Liners (especially low gauge ones) can easily be damaged and punctured, so only undertake home fitting yourself if you really know what you are doing.