If it turns out you do need a replacement, you must first figure out which type you need. The are two common types of above ground pool liners. One is a beaded and the other an overlap. The beaded is easier to install and maintain. The basic difference between the two is that a beaded liner is snapped into place in a groove on the inside of the pool wall and an overlap is placed over the pool wall and held into place with plastic clips. The most common problem with the overlap type is that the plastic clips can corrode or break. Although there are now special non-corrosive clips on the market.

There are many ways to practice preventative maintenance on your above ground swimming pool. For example, it is best to invest in a twenty five gauge liner as opposed to the more common twenty gauge, as it is much more durable and is warrantied for a longer period of time. You should also use a pool cover, which is a foam layer between the pool wall and the liner meant to protect and also aid in installation. It is also recommended to use padding on the floor of the pool in addition to the traditional sand.