How to Choose a Pool Cover

Install a quality cover over your pool in the offseason to greatly reduce the amount of work you have when reopening your pool. A cover also provides safety and peace of mind. There are a variety of types available, so you may find yourself asking, “How do I choose the right cover for my pool?” Here are the main types of covers available and how to choose between them:

Mesh Covers

Mesh covers are finely woven so that debris like sticks and leaves gather on top for easy removal. However, they allow rainwater through since they are permeable. This can be either an advantage or a disadvantage, depending on how you look at it. First of all, you won’t have to pump off the water that collects since it drains right into your pool. At the same time, mesh covers allow some dust and dirt through. You’ll have to vacuum that out of your pool when you reopen. Mesh covers are quite strong, assuming you go with a reputable brand of course.

Solid Winter Covers

Many pool owners prefer solid covers because they don’t allow anything through (as long as they are installed properly), and they are extremely sturdy. Moreover, a solid cover cuts down on the work you need to do to reopen your pool. Although, you do need to pump off any rainwater or snow that collects on top. Solid covers are much heavier than mesh covers and they may require a helping hand during installation and removal. 

Solar Covers

Solar covers are meant to be very easy to take on and off. As their name suggests, they trap in solar heat. A solar cover is intended to reduce your pool’s heating costs. Depending on your climate and usage, a solar cover may cut your energy costs in half or more.

Inground or Above Ground Pools

Above ground pool covers are different than the ones for inground pools. Above ground pool covers fasten to the exterior walls using winches while inground covers use anchors around the perimeter of the pool. Make sure to buy the proper size cover for your pool. Additional variables like rock formations, fountains, slides, and other features may require a customized solution for covering your pool. 

If you have any questions about how to fit a cover on your pool, give us a call at 936-327-2531. Keep your pool safe and secure this offseason with a pool cover from Backyard Oasis. You can visit our showroom at 2200 US Hwy 190 W in Livingston, TX.