2025 Comprehensive Guide

The Complete Guide to Pool Covers

Find the perfect pool cover for your needs. Compare solar covers, safety covers, winter covers and more — with expert sizing guides and maintenance tips.

All Cover Types Explained
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Types of Pool Covers

Find the Right Cover for Your Pool

Each cover type serves different purposes. Here's what you need to know to make the right choice.

Solar Covers

Heat your pool naturally and reduce evaporation. Perfect for extending your swim season.

  • Raises water temp 10-15°F
  • Reduces chemical loss
  • Easy to use with a reel
$50 - $300

Safety Covers

Protect children and pets with anchored mesh or solid covers that support weight.

  • Meets ASTM safety standards
  • Lasts 10-15 years
  • Professional installation
$1,200 - $3,500

Winter Covers

Protect your pool during off-season. Available in solid or mesh options.

  • Keeps out debris & algae
  • Easy spring opening
  • Budget-friendly option
$75 - $500

Automatic Covers

Motorized convenience with the push of a button. Ultimate in pool protection.

  • One-touch operation
  • Daily use convenience
  • Saves energy & chemicals
$8,000 - $20,000

Leaf Net Covers

Lightweight mesh to catch leaves and debris before they sink.

  • Use with other covers
  • Easy cleanup
  • Affordable option
$30 - $150

Thermal Covers

Thick insulating blankets for maximum heat retention and energy savings.

  • Best heat retention
  • Reduces heating costs 70%
  • Works day and night
$200 - $800
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Important Check

Is Your Pool Beyond Just a Cover?

If your pool surface has these issues, a new cover won't help — you need resurfacing first. The good news? It's more affordable than you think.

Rough or sandpaper texture
Visible cracks or chips
Stains that won't come off
Pool is 10-15+ years old
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Expert Advice

Pool Cover Buying Guide

What to consider before purchasing a pool cover

Measure Correctly

Always add 2-3 feet to your pool dimensions for proper overlap. For irregular shapes, measure at the widest and longest points.

Know Your Purpose

Heating? Safety? Winter protection? Different covers serve different needs. Some pools need multiple cover types throughout the year.

Consider Maintenance

Mesh covers need less maintenance but allow some debris through. Solid covers keep everything out but require a pump for standing water.

Think Long-Term

A quality safety cover costs more upfront but lasts 15+ years. Cheap covers may need replacement every 2-3 seasons.

Reference Guide

Pool Cover Size Chart

Common pool sizes and recommended cover dimensions

Pool Size Dimensions Solar Cover Size Winter Cover Size Safety Cover Size
Small 12' × 24' 12' × 24' 16' × 28' Custom fit
Medium 16' × 32' 16' × 32' 20' × 36' Custom fit
Large 18' × 36' 18' × 36' 22' × 40' Custom fit
Extra Large 20' × 40' 20' × 40' 24' × 44' Custom fit
Round (15') 15' diameter 15' round 18' round Custom fit
Round (24') 24' diameter 24' round 28' round Custom fit
Care Tips

Pool Cover Maintenance

Extend the life of your cover with proper care

1

Clean Regularly

Remove debris weekly. Use a soft brush and mild soap for deeper cleaning monthly.

2

Proper Storage

Store covers dry and out of direct sunlight. Fold loosely to prevent creases.

3

Check Hardware

Inspect anchors, straps, and springs seasonally. Replace worn parts promptly.

4

Remove Water

Pump off standing water from solid covers to prevent stretching and damage.

Common Questions

Pool Cover FAQ

Answers to the most common pool cover questions

How long do pool covers last? +
Solar covers last 3-5 years, winter covers 5-10 years, and quality safety covers can last 15+ years with proper care. UV exposure is the main factor affecting lifespan.
Can I use a solar cover as a safety cover? +
No. Solar covers are not designed to support weight and are dangerous to walk on. Only ASTM-certified safety covers provide protection for children and pets.
Should I cover my pool every night? +
If using a solar cover, yes — nightly use maximizes heat retention and reduces evaporation. Automatic covers make daily use convenient.
Mesh vs solid winter cover? +
Mesh allows water through (no pump needed) but lets fine debris in. Solid blocks everything but requires a pump. Heavy snow areas often prefer mesh.
Do I need a cover if my pool is screened? +
Screens help with debris but don't prevent evaporation or heat loss. A solar cover is still beneficial for energy savings even in screened enclosures.
My pool surface is rough — will a cover help? +
No — rough surfaces indicate your pool needs resurfacing, not a cover. Covers protect good surfaces; they can't fix deteriorating ones. Check if you need resurfacing →

Ready to Protect Your Pool Investment?

Whether you need a new cover or your pool surface needs attention first, we've got you covered. Check if resurfacing should be your first step.

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