Chances are if you have a swimming pool - whether above ground or in-ground, you will want to have steps or a ladder to make getting in and out of the pool easier.
When installing a ladder, you need to be extremely careful because it's quite possible that you could damage the pool liner itself if any sharp edges come in contact with it.
Also, keep in mind that with a ladder with an above ground pool, it makes it much easier for small children and toddlers to climb up and fall in.
You should be looking for a ladder that has a side that flips up and locks.
When you are not in the swimming pool area, you need to make certain the ladder is up and locked.
Here are some things to consider when you are looking at installing a ladder for your swimming pool:

• Before you install a pool ladder make certain you clean out the pool ladder cups that sit on the edge of the swimming pool.
  The ladder will be connecting to the pool's deck or the pool edge.
  During the winter months, the pool ladder cups can fill will dirt, debris and water.
  This should be cleaned thoroughly before the ladder is reinstalled.
  
• The next thing that's needed is to install the wedge in the ladder cup and adjust it so the area is clean against the cup wall.
  The wedge equipment helps the ladder stay in place and not float around when it is sitting in the water.
  
• If you have an in-ground swimming pool, there are cover rings that go over the ladder cups.
  These should be installed before the ladder is put into the pool.
  
• Once the cups are installed and cleaned out, you can install the ladder into the cup equipment.
  Hand tighten the wedges around the swimming pool ladder until they are tight and the ladder isn't loose.
  If you have a socket wrench, it can be used to tighten the ladder in its socket.
  
• Have an adult test the ladder's security and integrity before you let any children use it.
  Spend some time walking up and down the steps to make certain it will hold your weight.
  

Make certain the pool ladder isn't rubbing up against the pool walls, especially if you have a vinyl liner.
If the ladder is rubbing against the pool walls, it will eventually rub through it and cause a tear in the liner.