Should I Use a Swimming Pool Cover?

The big question most pool owners have about swimming pool covers is whether it is actually necessary. Covers are used primarily to prevent leaves, bugs, branches and twigs from falling into your pool and creating more damage. This consideration alone prompts many pool owners to want a cover.

The first thing to consider when purchasing a swimming pool cover is selecting the right size. Although there is much temptation to choose a standard cover that claims to fit any size pool, it is best to get a custom cover for your pool.

Fitting your pool will require that you make sure all the angles of your pool (including the steps and other areas) are under the pool cover. Since rarely are two pools in a neighborhood the same, you are wasting your time with a standard fitted cover. These allow the debris you are protecting your pool from to find its way into your pool.

You have a few options for swimming pool covers: safety covers, water bag covers or automatic covers.

Water bag covers give you an extra advantage because they use weighted bags to hold your swimming pool cover in place. This is an added security feature during heavy winds, rains and storms. Water bags are placed either inside the pool or on top of the cover and are about two or three feet apart.

The warranty on your swimming pool cover will determine what is covered and how long you have to report damages that are covered. Make sure you know what conditions the warranty covers is.

Stitching determines how well your swimming pool cover is made. The cover itself may suffer some damage during winter, as most vinyl products do. If you place a small amount of water on top of the cover, you can minimize wind damage. Good stitching is more than 10 x 10 and is slightly more expensive than regular stitching.

Remember to buy a swimming pool cover that is at least four feet larger than your pool. This ensures that your entire pool will be securely covered. Taking this small, but necessary measure will ensure that you extend the life of your pool.