Swimming pool liners are mostly for above ground pools although an in ground pool can have a tile liner and a sealant.
Both types serve the same purpose which is to protect the pool's surface from damage and natural organic growth like algae.
Some will have designs around the top near the edge of the pool to add to the pool's aesthetics.
There are two kinds of pool liners you can choose from for an above ground pool: a beaded liner and an overlap liner.
The beaded liner snaps to a track on the rim of the pool while the overlap liner hangs over the edge of the pool.
A beaded swimming pool liner fits into a track called the bead receiver that runs along the pool's lip and is concealed from view by the coping.
If you look under the edge of the coping you will see the track but you really have to look for it.
They cost more than an overlap liner but they tend to look cleaner.
An overlap liner simply drapes over the side of the pool and is secured in place by a plastic coping that fits beneath the pool rail.
The liner can be trimmed back but you will still be able to see where it was cut and this can take away from the aesthetics of the pool.
Both liners will last about fifteen years before needing to be replace but they will eventually wear out.
This gives you the option of switching liners if you are unsatisfied with one over the other.
Prices will vary according to thickness and thickness is what you want in a quality swimming pool liner.
Its labeled by gauge.
The higher the gauge, the better the liner.
Look for something mid gauge or better to assure yourself of a lasting liner.
The last thing you will have to decide is whether to install it yourself of have a professional install it.
It's not a difficult task to do yourself, but should you do it wrong it will cost you far more in the end.