Overlap or Beaded Liner

by Allen Stegall
(Easley, SC)

I have an outback above ground pool and its about 5 yrs old. A cat fell in this past winter and tore the liner so we are replacing it.

It came with an Overlap liner, my question is can I use a beaded for the new one? I have been told they are much easier to install. I haven't taken any of the top rails off yet to look but I know there is a plastic clip on the overlap liner now and that's it.

Thank you for any info you can give.



Hi Allen. I have a very strong preference for overlap liners and would use them whenever possible. I find it easier to keep the wrinkles out with an overlap and I always end up with a better looking installation.

My big problem with beaded liners are the inconsistent fit. If they are slightly to big for the pool you wind up with wrinkles every time. It they are to small for the pool you could have problems keeping the bead in the receiver. They only fit just right part of the time, the rest of the time they can be a pain.

If you plan to cover the top rail with a deck you would probably want to convert to a beaded liner, if not I see no reason. To convert a pool to beaded requires you to buy and install bead receivers. To install these receivers you still need to remove the top rails so why not just install the overlap liner.


These pages offer more information about beaded and overlap liners.

Overlap Liners

Beaded Liners

Above Ground Pool Liner Installation

Vinyl Liner Overhang

Beaded Liner Conversion