We’ve replaced our pool liner twice in the last 8 years and need some advice. Bristol oval 18x33 48 inch walls. I need advice on what pool liner and tips for installing please!
Generally speaking, the thicker the liner the better. I don't know if there is any difference between brands. I doubt they are manufacturing their own vinyl sheeting, they just all buy from industry sources.
Pretty sure for above ground pools all the different online retailers are mostly selling the same liners - the thicker the better as phonedave mentioned.
Latham & gli do make above ground liners and you must go through a dealer for pricing & specs.
For diy - especially if a deck is involved I usually recommend a beaded liner that sits in a bead receiver for ease of installation as well as not having to remove the top rails going forward. If you suspect this will be the last liner for this pool (average above ground pools life expectancy is about 10- 15 years) then a j hook liner will do the trick for ease of install.
Most are sold as unibead and can be installed as j hook or into a bead receiver.
Generally unibead & j hook liners are available in more thicker options & more patterns than over lap although it’s totally possible to get a thicker overlap liner there just may not be as much selection.
If you’re comfortable with the overlap install process and not picky about liner pattern you can certainly find a decently thick one and save a little money.
Here’s a helpful graphic to reference as you shop - middle of the road thickness (25-30 gauge) is generally pretty sufficient and plenty thick for most people.
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