What Is the Difference Between a Beaded & Unbeaded Pool Liner?

What Pools Use a Liner?

Above ground swimming pools need a pool liner. Most pool frames are a metal construction and require a pool liner to protect the frame from the harsh elements of the chemicals. The liner creates a waterproof barrier between the pool frame and the pool water. In between the pool liner is a foam cushion that is usually less than 1/2-inch thick that protects the liner as well. Pool liners used in above ground pools are made of a durable and elastic vinyl. Some in-ground pool designs use a vinyl liner as well, but this is much less common.

An unbeaded pool liner, commercially known as an overlap liner, is the most common kind of pool liners used on above ground pools. Overlap liners cost less money than the beaded types and are manufactured in 20- or 25-gauge vinyl that is sized specifically to your pool's specific dimensions and depth. This type of pool liner overlaps the pool frame beneath the pool railing. The overlap liner can be seen from the outside of the pool, unlike the beaded kind. The liner is held in place with rubber coping strips that grip the edge of the pool on both the inside and outside of the frame.

Beaded liners are manufactured in vinyl as well but cannot be seen from the outside of the pool like the overlap liners because the beaded liners attach to the edge of the pool onto a bead receiver that is installed around the perimeter of the pool frame. This gives your above ground pool a more polished look by not having the liner hang over the pool frame. Another benefit to the beaded liners is that the pool railing does not have to be removed to replace the liner in the future. Once the receiver is installed, the liner can unhook from the receiver for replacement.

The only difference between the the pool liners is the installation method. Both liners are constructed of the same type of materials and will be just as functional as the other. The decision comes down to a matter of personal choice in the end. The beaded liners cost more but are easier to replace when the liner rips or if it deteriorates over time. The overlap liner, on the other hand, costs less but will require more labor to replace because the pool railing must come off.