There’s an unspoken rite of passage for every pool owner. At one point, you’ve probably opened your pool and found that it was a mess under there in some way or another. Or maybe you never covered your pool at all and the fall and winter had a field day with it. Whatever the case was, you’ve vowed that it won’t happen again. Next time you close your pool for the season you’re going to equip it with the best possible winter pool cover.
These covers provide a barrier that prevents leaves, debris, and even animals from falling in, but that’s not their only purpose. They also serve to maintain the quality of the water by blocking sunlight and reducing algae growth. But how do you know what the best pool cover for you is? Let’s take a tour through the options available to you so you can make a smart choice!
Mesh Pool Covers
Mesh pool covers are made from—you guessed it—tightly woven mesh that keeps debris out but still lets water through. They’re durable and able to hold up against harsh winter weather. Secured to the deck with straps and springs, they provide a barrier that prevents people from falling in; nobody wants to take an accidental plunge in the middle of January.
These winter pool covers come in various styles. Mesh density, strap and spring strength, and the warranty attached to them are all things you should take a good look at when you’re shopping around. Select a cover that fits your pool properly! Here are a few of the pros and cons of mesh pool covers:
- Pros:
- Water can pass through, reducing the risk of damage from standing water.
- Durable materials that stand the test of time
- Lightweight and ebay to install
- Cons:
- Sunlight can penetrate and contribute to algae growth.
- Certain debris can get in, requiring periodic cleaning.
Need help installing your new cover? We’re happy to help you out!
Solid Safety Covers
Want to make sure everything is kept out, including sunlight? Solid pool safety covers are the way to go! They’re made from heavy-duty vinyl or polyethylene that completely blocks light and debris. Similar to mesh covers, they’re secured to the deck with straps and anchors.
Though they all follow the principle of “zero tolerance” when it comes to letting things in, there are still differences between your options. These variables include the thickness of the material, its UV resistance, and the manner of attachment to the deck. Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and drawbacks of this kind of winter pool cover:
- Pros:
- Keeps sunlight out, thus preventing the growth of algae
- Prevents debris of any kind from getting in
- Provides great safety
- Cons:
- A pump or drain system is required to get rid of standing water.
- Hefty weight means it’s more difficult to install.
Automatic Safety Covers
Many pool owners will only put the cover on when it’s time to close the pool for the season. While we recommend more frequent closings, we understand it’s a hassle—unless you have an automatic cover. These pool safety covers are motorized and can be open and closed with the press of a button! Generally consisting of vinyl or fabric, they roll on and off a reel that’s mounted at one end of the pool. When closed, they provide exceptional safety as well as great protection from debris and light.
Are there any downsides, though? Here’s a list that will help you weigh the pros and cons:
- Pros:
- Easy to use, often requiring just one button to operate
- High protection from debris and sunlight
- Good safety thanks to strong materials
- Cons:
- Higher cost of maintenance and installation
- Some models have poor motor reliability.
So Which One is Best?
No matter what type of pool safety cover you decide on, you’ll be enjoying some great features! While mesh covers are durable and allow water to pass through, solid ones are great for those of you who want to maximize safety. And of course there’s the convenience of automatic covers. Their convenience simply can’t be topped.
Once you decide on the best pool cover type, it comes down to the manufacturer and model. Through customer reviews and other thorough vetting measures, you can make an informed decision! Stack your notes on every option up against your budget, safety needs, and maintenance preferences to make the right call.
With the right pool cover installed, you won’t have to worry about uncovering a horror show when it’s time to open up for the spring and summer! For expert installation or any other pool needs, get in touch with our professionals at Aquatic Solutions. We can’t wait to install your winter pool cover!