7 Tips to Help You Choose a Swimming Pool Cover
It can be challenging to choose a swimming pool cover for your pool. The options seem never-ending, and it can be difficult to separate the features you need from the ones you don’t.
Why do you need a swimming pool cover?
There are many reasons why pool covers are necessary. They help keeps your pool areas safe when your pool is not in use by creating a barrier for pets and young children who might fall in the pool and be unable to get out. They also help pool owners save energy and resources. Not only will it decrease evaporation rates which could save you water, but it will also retain pool heat and decrease the amount of chlorine lost to UV rays. Pool covers also help keep your pool clean and keep out any unwanted debris, including dirt, bugs, and leaves.
What size swimming pool cover do I buy?
If you have a non-standard pool size, it can be confusing. First, when measuring the pool, make sure to include any top rails or other details of your pool in the measurement. Then, if you have a non-standard size pool, you will either need to order a custom pool cover or order a cover that is much larger than your pool to accommodate the dimensions. For example, if your pool is 12’X21’, the closest standard pool cover size would be 12’X24”.
Also, if you are planning to decrease the water level at any point and let your cover rests on the water, you may need to purchase a larger swimming pool cover than previously thought. Always make sure to double-check whether the company you are buying from lists pool cover sizes by actual cover length or pool size. Some companies will list a 12’x12’ cover, but the cover is actually 16’X16’ to ensure enough space is allowed. Whereas other companies will list a 12’X12’ cover, you will only receive a 12’X12’ cover which would be difficult to use in a 12’X12’ pool.
How do I find a cover for my unique pool shape?
For those with kidney-shaped, L-shaped, or freeform pools, you may need a custom cover. The good news is that more and more companies are offering custom pool covers, which means the price might not be as bad as you imagine and easier to choose a swimming pool cover.
What pool cover material is best for me?
There are three standard pool cover materials: mesh, heavy-duty mesh, and solid.
Mesh: These are the most basic pool covers. They allow water and light to pass through but still stop most debris. They also prevent pets and children from falling into the pool. Typically, mesh covers last around 10 years or more.
Heavy-duty mesh: As the name implies, these covers are a bit more durable. If your pool is in an area where it may be hit with a lot of debris, including tree limbs, the heavy-duty cover may be your best option.
Solid: Solid covers are the safest option. Kids and pets won’t be able to fall in at all, as solid covers are usually made out of solid vinyl or polyester fabrics. They also block 100% of the sun, which means you won’t find algae growing in your pool when you take it off.
Automatic vs. Manual
Automatic pool covers are extremely useful and can be much safer than manual covers, especially for older adults or single adults. They also reduce pool maintenance costs because they are more likely to be used on a daily basis. When used more frequently, automatic pool covers can keep water levels high by reducing evaporation. They can decrease the amount of chlorine used every year by lessening the number of UV rays hitting your pool.
However, if you live in a cooler climate, automatic pool covers may not be the best solution. They can often freeze and break when used in the cold.
They are also more expensive than manual covers, so if you’re looking to choose a swimming pool cover to cut costs, this might be it.
Solar
Solar covers are a great option if you want to heat your pool naturally. They use the heat from the sun to heat your pool while also keeping your pool clean and safe.
Safety
It is paramount that you consider safety when choosing a pool cover. If you have kids or pets at home or if you could have a kid or pet visit your home while you have the pool, then being able to safely cover your pool is vital. If you’re worried about pool cover safety, visit the ASTM website to see what safety standards are recommended.
Warranty
Pool covers can be a significant investment, so you want to be sure you are protecting that investment with a strong warranty. Most companies will offer a warranty and stand behind their product if anything breaks from normal wear and tear.