Having a cover for your pool not only makes cleaning and upkeep easier, but it can also maintain the water levels, saving you money in the long run. With all these benefits, it’s not hard to see why so many pool owners opt for some type of cover. If you’re looking into purchasing one for your pool, you might be overwhelmed by the options available. Not to worry, as in this post, we’ll review some of the most popular types of pool covers available, along with their pros and cons.
The Importance of Pool Covers
There are several reasons why it’s recommended to have a cover for your pool. Different types of covers may serve unique purposes, but in general, the goal of a pool cover is to help you conserve water, keep debris out of your pool and limit the risk of accidents when your pool is unsupervised.
Mesh Covers
Mesh pool covers allow water to pass through them, but the mesh captures any debris that’s large enough to accumulate in your pool’s filtration system. The mesh material is strong and can support the body weight of someone who might slip on the deck and fall into the pool.
Pros
A mesh pool cover allows melted snow and ice to fill the pool without debris, so you won’t need to spend as much on water when you fill it during the spring. It also keeps animals out of your pool.
Cons
Hardware and installation for mesh covers are more expensive than many alternatives available. Mesh covers also don’t protect your pool liner from UV rays.
Solid Covers
Solid pool covers keep everything out of your pool, from debris and animals to water and sunlight. You don’t need to worry about anyone accidentally falling into your pool, and they’re easy to install.
Pros
Most solid covers are a budget-friendly alternative to mesh because they have the same strength at a lower price point. They also help your pool liner last longer by protecting it from the sun.
Cons
Solid pool covers don’t last as long as other options, mainly because of the materials they are made from, which are exposed to all kinds of weather conditions. Additionally, you might need to invest in a pump to clear water that collects on or around the surface of the cover.
Automatic Pool Covers
Automatic pool covers are available in various materials and, as the name suggests, allow you to cover and uncover your pool automatically with the push of a button.
Pros
After installation, this is generally the easiest type of pool cover to use. It doesn’t require storage, reducing clutter and legwork related to its use.
Cons
Automatic covers are more expensive and challenging to remove after you’ve installed them. After the installation cost, keep in mind that these covers require regular upkeep for the mechanical and electrical parts.
Solar Pool Covers
Solar pool covers combine the benefits of a solid pool cover and a mesh cover by allowing in just enough light to keep your pool warm while acting as a filter against dirt and debris.
Pros
Solar pool covers are easy to install by yourself. They also save you a lot of money, both on the cost of the cover and your water and chemical usage. A solar cover also attracts the sun’s rays, which can warm your pool significantly, allowing you to use it longer into the season.
Cons
Since solar pool covers are constructed with lightweight materials, so they can’t support significant weight. If an animal or person falls on the cover, it’s likely to tear or break, potentially leading to injuries.
Which Pool Cover is Right for You?
Now that we’ve looked at the most common types of pool covers, you might already know which is best for your backyard oasis. However, if you still aren’t sure, consider other factors like how often you swim in your pool, whether you have children or pets who will be near it, if you have enough storage space for the cover, and your overall aesthetic style, as some covers are nicer to look at than others. For professional advice, don’t hesitate to contact us at Benson Pools. We can help find and install a pool cover that’s perfect for your family’s needs.
