Choosing the right winter cover

Choosing the right winter cover can be difficult depending on the end result you are looking for.  We will explain the choices and the pros and cons of each.

Poly tarp with UV inhibitor- This cover is the most basic and least expensive.  It is installed on top of the pool and secured at the edge of the pool with water tubes.  The purpose of the water tubes is to eliminate air gaps to avoid wind getting under the cover and blowing it off of the pool.  It is important to line up the water bags end to end with no gaps so it has a tight seal.  The positives to this cover are that it is inexpensive and keeps all debris and sunlight out of the pool.  No sunlight usually means no algae in the spring.  The negatives are that this cover can get unsightly with rancid water and leaves and debris on top of the cover through the winter and in the spring it could make for a big clean up job.  Expect to spend between $100 and $200 for this type of cover.

Mesh Safety Cover- This cover is the most common  style of cover, it is popular because of its clean appearance through the winter.  It is installed with an anchor system that is drilled into the concrete deck with a stainless steel spring that is buckled to the cover.  It pulls tight across the pool and looks similar to a trampoline.  It is excellent at keeping debris out of the pool and since it is mesh, rain and melted snow and ice drain through it, keeping it clean all winter long.  The negative to this style of cover is that sunlight can get through it, which can help the growth of algae and can make opening the pool more of chore.  Another thing to consider when purchasing this cover is cost, it is custom fit to your pool and sell for $1000 to $2000 depending on the size and shape of the pool.

Motorized or Automatic Cover-  This choice is permanently installed on a tracking system that reels the cover material onto a roller and is stored in a housing build into the concrete deck.  This cover has many positives, it can be used as a winter cover as well as a solar cover and a safety cover. It keeps sunlight out as well as debris.  It comes with an automatic pump to remove rain water and melted snow.  It is easy to install and remove, simply turn a key to activate the reel motor.  As long as the cover is cleaned opening the pool in the spring is as easy as turning the key.  It is an expensive option with covers ranging from $7000 to $12000.

If you have questions about any of winter covers choices, please call us to discuss it.