Updated September 2026

Finding the right replacement liner option for your pool can be stressful and overwhelming. To choose the right replacement pool liner, you need to know four things:

1. Pool shape and size: Round, oval or rectangle and the exact dimensions.
2. Wall height: Typically 48", 52" or 54".
3. Liner attachment type: Overlap, beaded, unibead/J-hook or expandable.
4. Pattern: Once fit is confirmed, choose the look you want.

Already know your measurements? → Shop Pool Liners by Size

Replacing Your Pool Liner Step 1. : Measure your above ground pool

Before you choose a pool liner replacement, take the time to measure your pool accurately.  As your pool ages, it likely won’t be the same size you thought it was because of sagging or bowed walls. You can’t rely on receipts or documents from the previous pool owner or the original paperwork from your current liner. By taking the time to measure your pool, you can extend the life of your new liner and save time and money later.  To start measuring your pool, use a tape measure from inside to inside of the pool wall. You’ll also want to think of your pool as a clock, measuring from 12 to 6 and 9 to 3. 

In order to avoid any measurement issues, you’ll want to measure twice – once at the bottom of the wall and once at the top. If these measurements don’t add up, you may also want to measure from the center of your pool wall.  Next up, measure the depth of your pool. Use your tape measure to measure from the deepest point of your pool floor to the top inside edge of your pool wall.
  Measuring is much easier with a family member or friend, so make sure you have someone with you during this process!

Please note: The above highlights measuring the most common pool shapes. Pools with unique shapes, extra features, bowed walls, or other irregularities may require a more complex measuring process or even a custom pool liner. Contact an expert to discuss your pool's specifics before purchasing.

We proudly offer replacement above ground pool liners for the following pool shapes and sizes:

Round Pool Liner Replacements: 12’ | 15’ | 16’ | 18’ | 21’ | 24’ | 27’ | 28’ | 30’ | 33’

Oval Pool Liner Replacements: 12’x18’ | 12’x24’ | 15’x24’ | 15’x25’ | 15’x30’ | 16’x24’ | 16’x32’ | 18’x33’ | 21’x41’

Rectangle Pool Liner Replacements: 12’x20’ | 12’x24’ | 16’x24’ | 16’x32’

Replacing Your Pool Liner Step 2: Determine if You Need a Beaded, Overlap, Unibead/J-hook Or Expandable Liner

Which Type of Above Ground Pool Liner Do I Need?

The right pool liner depends on how your current liner attaches to the pool, as well as your pool size, wall height, and configuration. Use this quick comparison to narrow down which liner type may be right for your above ground pool.

Still not sure which liner you have? Look at how your current liner attaches at the top of the pool wall before ordering. If you're unsure, contact LinerWorld with your pool's shape, dimensions, wall height, and a photo of the liner attachment so we can help you narrow down the right option.

Overlap Pool Liners

Overlap liners wrap around the top of the pool and have plastic strips (called coping) that rest on the top.  Overlap liners are installed by removing the top rail of your swimming pool and draping the liner over the wall. Once the liner is in place, the extra liner can be cut away using scissors. To know if an overlap liner is right for your pool, you should be able to see some liner hanging out of the pool top rail.

Shop Overlap Liners

Beaded Pool Liners

Beaded liners hook into the track along the edge of the pool wall, which is called a bead receiver. As the liner is being installed, the groove on the top of the liner will snap into place along the track. To know if your pool requires a beaded liner, you’ll want to check under the pool top rail for a bead receiver.

Shop Beaded Liners

Unibead/J-hook Pool Liners

Unibead/J-hook pool liners hook directly over the top of the pool wall, creating a secure, finished fit without the coping strips used with overlap liners. They’re a popular replacement option because installation is relatively straightforward, and no excess liner material hangs over the outside of the pool wall. If your current liner hooks over the top edge of the pool wall rather than hanging over it or snapping into a separate bead receiver, a J-hook-style liner may be the right fit. Before ordering, confirm your pool’s size and wall height to ensure the liner fits.

Shop Unibead/J-hook Liners

Expandable Pool Liners

If your pool has a deep end, you may need an expandable liner to make sure it can fit appropriately.  At LinerWorld, we offer expandable pool liners to fit up to 72” in depth (designed to stretch for pools with a deep end or dug-out center over 54″ and up to 72″).

Shop Expandable Pool Liners

Replacing Your Pool Liner Step 3: Choose a liner pattern

After narrowing down your options, you'll see available liners. From classic blues and tile patterns to unique mermaid and shark designs, we have some of the trendiest liner colors and designs in stock.   When it comes to vinyl liner patterns and colors, people often ask about dark vs. light liners. Both have pros and cons. For example, fading from UV rays tends to be more noticeable on dark liners, and patterns can hide scuffs and dirt more easily.  It really comes down to personal taste and what fits your pool and backyard vibe.

What If I Don’t Know What Liner I Currently Have?

Not sure which type of pool liner you have? Start by looking at how the liner attaches at the top of the pool wall. Overlap liners extend over the top of the wall and are held in place with coping strips. Beaded liners have a bead along the top edge that snaps into a separate bead receiver or track. Unibead/J-hook liners hook directly over the top of the pool wall without a separate bead receiver. If your pool has a deeper, dug-out center, you may need an expandable liner designed to accommodate the additional depth.

If you’re still unsure, don’t guess. Contact LinerWorld before ordering with your pool’s shape, dimensions, wall height, and, if possible, a photo of how your current liner attaches. We can help you narrow down the right liner type before you buy.

How much is a replacement pool liner?

Great question. The cost of a replacement pool liner varies depending on size, pattern, and other factors. At Linerworld, the majority of our vinyl above ground pool liners range from about $300-$1,000.

Get support when choosing a replacement liner

Choosing the right type of pool liner can be challenging. At LinerWorld, we are here to support you every step of the way.  Our ordering process is easy and interactive! We have a live chat feature available on the website and our customer service team is on-hand to help you make the right selection.  We also pride ourselves on our fast and free shipping. Orders placed by 3 PM (CST) typically ship the same day and most customers receive their orders within 1-3 business days.