How to Choose the Right Pool Cover
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. Shoreline Pools has expert information on pool covers that will help winterize your pool while remaining cost-effective and safe.
Determining The Size of Your Pool Cover
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.
The Shape of Your Pool Cover
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 The Material of Your Pool Cover
Swimming pool covers typically come in three standard materials to choose from: Mesh Safety Covers, Heavy-Duty Mesh Safety Covers, and Solid Safety Covers.
Mesh 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
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.
Solid Safety Covers
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.
Automatic Pool Covers
Automatic pool covers utilize the latest in mechanics and technology, however, it is important to assess if an auto-cover will work for your space and climate. For example freezing cold elements halt an automatic pool cover from properly working. You cannot use an auto-cover as a cover for the cold winter months if you live in a cold state.
In addition, automatic pool covers can reduce pool maintenance costs during swim season. For instance, the covers help trap in heat, decreasing the heating costs and reduce evaporation and chemical consumption. Finally, automatic pool covers open and close daily, protecting the clean pool from debris.
Cover Your Pool For Optimal Pool Maintenance
A good quality pool cover helps to keep your pool safe from the winter elements, and pristine for next year’s pool opening. Whether you have an active family of swimmers or use your pool to unwind, the experts are Shoreline Pools can help you choose the right cover for your pool and lifestyle. Make sure to follow Shoreline Pools on HOUZZ for unlimited backyard inspiration.
