Overlap vs Unibead Pool Liners: What’s the Difference?

If you are buying a new liner for your above ground pool, you will likely run into two popular options: overlap and unibead. At first glance, they might seem similar, but there are some key differences that can affect how your liner installs, fits, and lasts. This guide will help you compare overlap vs unibead pool liners so you can decide which one is best for your pool and your setup.

What Is an Overlap Pool Liner?

Overlap liners are one of the most common and affordable liner types for above ground pools. They are designed to drape over the top edge of your pool wall. You secure the liner using coping strips that hold it in place before reinstalling the top rails. Once installed, any excess material is trimmed off.

Pros of Overlap Liners:

• Generally lower cost
• Works well with pools that are slightly out of round or uneven
• Good for DIY installations

Cons of Overlap Liners:

• Can be tricky to line up evenly
• May not look as clean as beaded or unibead liners at the top
• Requires removing top rails during installation

What Is a Unibead Pool Liner?

A unibead liner (sometimes called a J-hook liner) is designed to fit neatly over the wall of your pool without the need for coping strips. It has a thick hook-shaped edge that slips over the wall, creating a cleaner look and easier install. You can also cut off the J-hook portion and use it as a beaded liner if your pool has a bead track.

Pros of Unibead Liners:

• Easier to install than overlap liners
• No need for coping strips
• Clean, finished look at the waterline
• Can be used with or without a bead track

Cons of Unibead Liners:

• Typically more expensive than overlap liners
• Not ideal for older pools without uniform wall height

Which One Should You Choose?

If you are on a budget and confident in your measuring and install skills, an overlap liner might be the way to go. It gives you a bit of flexibility if your pool is not perfectly level or if it is an older setup.

If you want a cleaner look and an easier installation process, especially without dealing with coping strips, a unibead liner is worth the upgrade. It also gives you the flexibility to use it with a beaded track later on if you upgrade your pool or liner system in the future.

How to Tell Which Liner Your Pool Needs

If your current pool liner hooks directly into a track under the top rail, it is a beaded liner. If the liner is draped over the wall and held with plastic strips, it is an overlap. If you want to switch to unibead, check that the pool wall height matches the liner size, and that the top rail can be removed easily for install.

Final Thoughts

Both overlap and unibead pool liners have their place, and neither one is universally better. The right choice depends on your pool style, your budget, and how confident you are in your installation skills. Whichever liner you choose, measuring accurately and following install instructions will make the biggest difference in how well your liner fits and how long it lasts.

Ready to upgrade your liner? Click here to check out our collection of above ground pool liners or contact our team if you are not sure which type your pool needs.