Types of Inground Pool Covers

Answer 1

There are many options available for anyone looking to purchase a cover for their new inground pool or as a replacement for an existing cover. It’s important to weigh out the benefits and shortcomings of each type of cover before making the purchase. Not only should installation of the cover be considered, but also the winter maintenance necessities.

Tarpaulin covers are the cheapest of inground pool covers, but will require quite a bit more work to put them on and maintain through the winter. These covers are held down and secured using water bags or flexible vinyl tubes filled with water. After the pool is closed, a pump must be used regularly to keep a safe amount of water on top of the cover. If a large amount of rainwater is allowed to accumulate on the cover, it has the potential to push down into the pool and tear the pool liner below.

The safety cover, sometimes referred to as a loop lock cover, is made up of a canvass mesh material that prevents water from laying on the cover of a pool. While it allows water to freely pass through to the pool, it prevents debris from getting in. As a result, the initial pool cleaning is much easier once the pool is reopened. This type of inground pool cover is attached to the surrounding deck or patio with looped straps that hook onto thick screws. This keeps the cover secure enough to hold a very large amount of weight. Considering all of the benefits that safety covers offer, this type of inground pool cover is normally the most expensive option.

Bead lock covers are only available from certain pools manufacturers, as they are sized to fit the exact shape of the pool. They float on the water and attach to the coping, above where the pool liner is locked into. This cover is also designed to bear a fair amount of weight for safety purposes, but it is not as secure as the safety cover. In addition, a pump will also be necessary through winter to keep the water level down on top of the cover.