Pool covers are specially designed to provide a protective layer for pools, which significantly contributes to their lifespan and functionality, even during seasonal changes. Regardless of the specific material chosen for the pool cover, a pool cover serves a number of important functions that also result in significant long-term economic savings.
However, it is of utmost importance that the installation is carried out correctly to achieve the product's maximum potential. Often, the installation of pool covers is a relatively simple process that can be performed by a layperson. For those who have sufficient knowledge and intend to install a pool cover themselves, a detailed step-by-step guide is presented here.
Why install a pool cover?
The installation of a pool cover brings a number of benefits, among which the following are particularly prominent:
- Energy savings, which in the long term generate significant economic advantages.
- Water savings by reducing the need for refill water by an impressive 30–50%.
- A significant reduction in chemical consumption in the pool by 35%–60%.
- Significantly shorter cleaning time as the pool cover effectively prevents dirt and other debris from entering the pool.
In summary, the installation of a pool cover contributes to significant long-term economic savings. You can choose to do the installation yourself or hire a specialized pool company for both purchase and professional, efficient installation. With clear instructions on how to measure a pool for a safety cover, the installation can often be completed in less than a day (2-3 hours for a professional). Installing a safety cover is actually one of the simpler pool projects compared to installing a new liner, pumps, filters or heaters, locating leaks, repairing tiles, etc., and can significantly reduce the total cost of a new safety cover.
Installation guide for pool covers
Below are the crucial steps to consider if you intend to install a pool cover yourself.
1. Prepare the pool area for installation of the pool cover
Before covering the pool begins, it is important to ensure that the area is thoroughly cleaned and free of obstacles, especially at the pool edges, to facilitate a smooth installation.
Although this step is not absolutely necessary, it helps determine how much material needs to be cut away to optimally adapt the pool cover around the pool steps. This facilitates determining the ideal size of the pool cover taking into account the pool steps and their railings.
2. Roll out the pool cover
After the pool area is completely free of obstacles, the rollout of the pool cover begins from one end, with the bubble side facing down.
Ensure that the sides are correctly positioned. If air accumulates between the pool surface and the cover, use a pool brush to gently remove it without disturbing the already covered area. It is not strictly necessary to remove all air, but make sure no large air pockets remain.
3. Mark the edges of the pool cover for cutting
After all air has been removed, mark the lines with chalk or a tip to accurately cut the pool cover so that it fits exactly. For a tight fit, the cover should be cut a few millimeters above the waterline.
The marking is crucial for cutting the pool cover so that it connects perfectly against the pool's sides, while the size is adjusted to prevent it from coming into contact with the pool edge.
4. Trim the pool cover to size
To adjust the size of the pool cover, it must be cut from the sides. Use a sharp pair of scissors to ensure an exact cut along the marked area.
Follow the marked areas during cutting and make sure to push the pool cover back into the pool every few feet. The pool cover can also be folded around the skimmer area. A pool cover that is folded at the skimmer facilitates the removal of accumulated water and debris in the skimmers. This helps rainwater flow directly through the skimmers, preventing it from collecting on the top of the pool cover.
5. Installation of a cover reel
Although pool cover reels are optional, they can be used to keep the pool cover in place. With the pool cover still laid out on the pool, place the reel at one end of the pool. Attach the loop and cord to the cover and the reel. Once the middle loop is attached, manually pull the cover off the pool so that it rests at the base of the reel. It is important that the cords are the same length so that the force is evenly distributed when rolling up the pool cover.
6. Storage and maintenance of pool cover
When the pool cover has been rolled up, ensure that it is stored in a safe place where it is not exposed to weather and wind. Make sure there are no leaves or debris on the surface of the pool cover, as this can cause stains.
Acquiring a UV-safe tarp to cover the pool reel is an excellent measure. Pool covers are designed to withstand weather and wind. When the pool cover is used to cover the pool, the water underneath helps to cool the cover. When the cover is rolled up, the sun's heat has nowhere to go, which can cause the dry cover to overheat.
Final words
Pool covers represent a strategic investment that in the long term significantly reduces expenses for both water and pool chemicals. Use the provided guide to learn step-by-step how to install a pool cover. If you are considering purchasing pool covers, Pooltime.se is a reliable resource. We offer affordable pool covers that contribute to a clean pool environment, minimize unnecessary maintenance work and effectively extend the pool season.
