While choosing a cover for your swimming pool may seem trivial, it is important to protect your luxury pool during the winter months. Pool covers act to reduce evaporation, and keep snow, ice, and other debris out of your pool. New pool owners may not yet know the correct process for choosing an effective pool cover.
Since selecting the correct cover requires multiple considerations like size, shape, and material, you will want to make sure you have the essential facts before your purchase. Pools has expert information on pool covers that will help winterize your pool while remaining cost-effective and safe. The pool covers are versatile & customizable for any pool. You can stay relaxed without worrying about your children and pets.
- Determine size of your pool
To properly cover and close, your pool cover must be that is the correct size of your pool. For an in-ground pool, according to experts, your pool cover should extend at least 3 inches past the edge of the pool. Prior to purchasing a cover, you will need to measure to find the correct dimensions of your swimming pool. If your pool is a standard size, it will be easy to find one in store and less expensive. Otherwise, you will need to order a custom cover.
- Shape of pool
Pool designs that have symmetrical shapes and straight lines such as rectangular, Kidney or Grecian are typically found at many retailers. Meanwhile, pools with rounded edges or asymmetrical sides require more effort. If your pool has a unique shape, you will most likely need to purchase a custom pool cover.
- Choosing Material of your Pool
Swimming pool covers typically come in three standard materials to choose from:
- Mesh Safety Covers
- Heavy-Duty Mesh Safety Covers
- Solid Safety Covers
Mesh safety covers are the standard covers for your pool. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and easy to store. The thin mesh material allows certain light to pass through. Mesh covers let about 5% of sunlight through to your pool. Snow and water will melt through to the pool but debris will not be able to pass through the cover. The mesh cover will also protect the pool from children or pets falling in. According to sellers, mesh pool covers cost $200-600 less than the heavier duty covers. The lifespan of mesh pool covers is about 10-15 years.
Heavy-duty mesh safety covers are more a durable version of the mesh safety cover. These covers only let about 1% of sunlight through to the pool while allowing water to permeate through the cover. These covers are high-end and typically more expensive. This type of pool cover works well for backyards with a lot of trees; your pool will be safe from falling branches and heavier debris. In addition, this cover will also protect your children and pets from falling in, similar to the mesh cover.
A solid pool cover is typically made out of solid vinyl or laminated polyester fabric coated material. The solid covers provide maximum protection for the pool and for the people and animals around it. Solid pool covers block 100% of sunlight, which inhibits algae growth. Solid covers make your spring pool opening more efficient. The solid pool covers are heavier and more difficult to store than mesh covers are. Because of these things, solid covers last for only 7-11 years, a few years less than the mesh covers.
When deciding which material works best or your pool, it’s best to consider your location and climate. For example, if you live in an area with a mild climate, you do not need a heavy-duty pool cover. A lighter material, such as the mesh cover, will suffice and also be less expensive. Meanwhile, pool owners who live in colder climates that receive harsh elements should invest in a properly anchored heavy-duty cover during cold weather months.