If there’s anything you’ve probably learned about pool ownership it’s that those things require maintenance - and lots of it. Above ground pools have a tendency to magnetize filth, especially if there are quite a lot of birds, bugs, and trees in your area. But that's not something the best above ground pool covers can't fix.
Covering up your pool can save you loads in maintenance costs. Plus, a simple cover can prevent evaporation and heat loss while adding an extra layer of safety to your pool area. But don't think you can just choose any pool cover and be done with it. These things come in a wide variety of designs, requiring skilled selection and due diligence to guarantee that you're buying the right one for your pool.
Different Above Ground Pool Cover Types
Count on manufacturers to come up with an assortment of covers for above ground pools to cater to buyers of every taste and preference. These days, you're likely to find pool covers in one of three categories, each one delivering unique performance and functionality that might just make you a little more satisfied than others will.
Solid Pool Cover
With the texture of a tarp, solid pool covers are called such because, well, they're solid. They don't let leaves or dirt through and they sit snug on the surface of your pool. Combined with a leaf net, the solid pool cover is one of the most efficient when it comes to maintaining your pool water's cleanliness and chlorine levels intact which is also why they're often considered the best round above ground pool covers.
They're typically harder to install than mesh sheets and they come with a winch and cable to help you tighten the cover when you decide to have it in place. Because it is solid, it doesn't let any UV radiation pass through, thus preventing a world's worth of damage to your pool structure especially if it isn't a permanent fixture on your lawn. It's also important to point out that most winter pool covers are solid in design.
Perhaps the biggest downside to using a solid round above ground pool cover is that if they get rained or snowed on, it will pool on the surface. This poses a major safety hazard if you have small kids or pets, and may even risk damaging your cover. To prevent this from happening, you're going to have to install a separate pump to get rid of water on the cover surface which costs extra to acquire, set-up, and operate.
Mesh Pool Cover
Designed with a fine mesh material, a mesh pool cover might not thoroughly protect your pool against the smallest grains of dirt and dust, but it is especially durable. This round above ground pool sheet proves to be even more resilient than its solid cover counterpart, making it an ideal choice if your pool is particularly exposed to the elements.
A mesh pool cover lets water pass through, so they're not prone to the same puddled water problem that a solid cover has. This also significantly reduces the risk associated with a solid cover, making them a better choice if you've got kids or pets at home. Even then, you can't really rely on them as a winter cover the same way you would a solid sheet. On the upside, the simple addition of a leaf net should be enough to keep out most debris.
That said, they're not completely problem-free either. For one thing, a mesh pool cover will allow some debris to pass through into your water. And because they don't seal the water off entirely, you should expect some evaporation especially if your pool is directly under sunlight. Finally, a mesh pool cover also promotes slight algae growth which calls for more frequent water filtration even when your pool isn't in use.
Solar Pool Covers
And then there are solar pool blankets. Named such for their ability to collect heat from the sun and transfer said heat to your pool water, these blankets aren't designed so much for pool maintenance as they are for temperature regulation. So you can't really expect them to keep dirt out.
What they are good for however is keeping your pool the proper temperature so you can take a dip any time you want. Solar pool blankets float freely on the surface of above ground pools as opposed to being tied down to the borders like solid and mesh sheets. On the upside, they can prevent some debris from getting in your water, especially bigger bits like leaves and bugs.
All of that said, a solar pool cover might not be the ideal choice if you're looking to protect your pool during the winter. And because they get their heat from the sun, they don't make a suitable winter pool cover if you're hoping to maintain warmer water. Nonetheless, if you want to keep your pool warm overnight while preventing some evaporation, then a solar pool cover might be what you need.
How to Choose the Right Above Ground Pool Cover
Bet you didn't think there would be so many considerations just to find the best above ground pool cover. There are a lot of different factors that can affect the experience and satisfaction you get out of your above ground pool cover particularly if you're prepping for winter, so it really helps to consider all the angles to make sure you're getting the right one.
If you're still not a hundred percent sure which above ground pool cover to get, you might want to look into these specifics:
Size and Shape
There are quite a few considerations to make if you're installing an above ground pool sheet for the first time. In general, the mesh cover tends to be lighter and easier to install which is why pool owners on a budget tend to gravitate towards them for the cheaper installation expense. If you've got a large pool, a mesh cover can be much easier to set-up since it won't weigh as much as a solid cover.
Installation & Fitting
Obviously, a solid cover is much heavier and may require more than one person to install especially for larger pools. If you don't have enough man power at home, then you will have to employ the help of a professional to get your cover in place. Cover shape is rarely an issue since any of these cover designs and materials can be cut down to size depending on your pool's specifications. Manufacturers also sell a variety of cover shapes like wound and oval pool covers so you can use it straight out of the package.
Perhaps the biggest hurdle when installing a pool cover would be the presence of the appropriate hardware to secure your cover in place. If you've had a cover before, then you've probably already got a set of hooks drilled into place where you can loop the cables through to keep the pool cover steady. If this is your first time using a cover, then you're going to have the hardware installed first.
Another thing is that when it comes to choosing the appropriate cover size, your winter cover can't be the exact same size as the pool itself. Temperature changes can expand or compress the cover material, and stretching it too much across your pool can cause serious damage on the edges. Most winter cover designs like those from Blue Wave and its competing brands add an extra three to five feet so your winter cover isn't too snug when installed.
Ease of Use
Installation is one thing, but ease of use is another. The process of pulling your pool cover over the surface of your above ground pool and pulling it off during swim season can make or break the entire experience. As with any other feature in and around your home - if the cover takes too much effort to use, then you probably won’t be using it at all.
The mesh cover is typically preferred by pool owners who want to be able to secure and remove their cover without the need for any extra hands. The solid cover on the other hand, tends to be more tedious to remove and put back. They’re particularly heavy, and it takes quite some strength to pull the cover over the pool and achieve the necessary tension when tying it in place.
Needless to say, the humble solar cover comes in first place when it comes to ease of use. Because you don’t need to tie it in place, the solar cover doesn't require as much time or effort to get in place. Just toss the cover into your above ground pool and they’ll float on the surface as intended. If you’re planning to go for a swim, simply lift the solar cover out, fold it up, and set it to one side while you enjoy the warm water.
Functionality
There's more to a cover than simply keeping dirt and debris out. For instance, there are some solid above ground pool covers you can walk on which you can use to support potted plants and other decorative ornaments when your pool isn't in use. It's also worth pointing out that solid cover tends to do better in preventing evaporation which is ideal for those living in warmer regions.
The mesh above ground swimming pool cover on the other hand might not work as well to prevent debris and dirt from passing through, or at keeping evaporation at bay. But that doesn't make it any less of an option. If anything, the mesh cover provides excellent safety since they're non-slip and they prevent water from pooling on the surface.
Finally, the solar cover doesn't really work as well as either mesh or solid covers at keeping dirt out since they're not secured to the borders of your pool. That also means they might not meet your expectations for winter use. Nonetheless, a solar cover can be a great choice if you're looking for an efficient, low-cost way to keep your pool water just the right temperature. And by maintaining the ideal warmth, solar pool covers also work to prevent chlorine evaporation and algae growth.
Durability
Generally speaking, all above ground pool winter covers are designed for durability since they're going to be exposed to moisture, chemicals, and UV rays for extended periods of time. But if we're talking about which ones are less likely to give in to wear and tear, it would have to be mesh pool sheets.
The vinyl fibers are almost too small for any algae to grow on, and because they let water from rain and snow to just pass through, they aren't prone to the same damage that pooled water or winter snow can cause. Solid covers on the other hand tend to require more tension to keep taut across the surface of your pool, which can cause major wear and tear along the edges.
If anything, solar pool blankets are the least prone to damage. Because you don't need to tie them down, there won't be any tension that could potentially tear the sheets over time. While they might grow some algae, cleaning them with a hose should get rid of the problem without too much of a fuss.
Seasons
Not all covers for above ground swimming pools were made for all-year-round performance. On the contrary, mesh covers tend to pale in comparison to solid covers if you're looking to get above ground pool protection for the colder months. Solid pool covers make the ideal pick for winterproofing your pool because of how well they keep debris out and maintain pool water chemistry.
The best winter pool covers should keep all the edges of your pool securely protected from exposure to the elements. And because mesh covers don't do that, you might find yourself spending more on pool heating and filtration if you've opted for a mesh cover during the colder months.
Unfortunately, solar covers for pools can only help increase your water temperature by a few degrees, so they're not necessarily ideal for winter pool maintenance. If anything, the best solar pool covers can heat up your pool by a maximum of 6 degrees Celsius, which is definitely not enough if you're hoping to combat the winter weather for several months.
Warranty
The length of a product's warranty is the testament of a manufacturer's willingness to stand behind their product. The longer the warranty, the more confident a manufacturer that they won't be dealing with performance and durability issues as the months (or years) roll on. As with any other item, even the best above ground swimming pool covers can come with varying warranty lengths depending on durability. Those that are designed for use during the winter can be especially durable, and come with much longer warranties.
On average, you can expect to get a coverage of up to three years on your pool cover especially if it comes from a reputable manufacturer. However there are some that have extended warranties that last up to a decade or more. A premium heavy duty solid cover that comes with high UV rating can last much longer, so you can get a longer warranty cover on those. A lightweight cover with a shorter warranty of just about a few months or even weeks should last you a few seasons, but will require replacement not long after.
It's also important to take note of the specifics of your warranty coverage. For instance, most manufacturers will not cover damages caused by faulty installation, misuse, and even poor storage. So if you're buying an expensive pool cover, you might also want to consider getting a professional to do the installation for you so you don't end up voiding your warranty.
Accessories
There might be a few extra items you'll need to make sure your pool cover is secure and properly installed. Many of these accessories won't be optional, so it's vital that you really take the time to consider how much you're willing to spend on your pool cover and all its necessary accessories, especially if you're working within a budget.
Clips
These help keep your pool cover in place and prevent it from being tousled around by wind and foot traffic. They come in a wide array of shapes, sizes, and styles, but those that attach to your pool cover directly can save you loads of time since you can leave them in and just link them to the matching grommets or hooks on your pool's deck.
We recommend the Wellmax Heavy Duty Tarp Clips.
Sealers
A winter pool cover seal quite literally seals your pool by closing up the edges of your above ground pool. A sealer wraps around your above ground pool's edges while the winter above ground pool cover is in place, effectively preventing anything from getting in and any water from getting out. This doesn't only help maintain your pool water, but also prevents damage to your cover that might be caused by strong winds. Even the toughest, most durable winter pool covers will call for the help of a sealer especially when the weather gets a little too rowdy.
We highly suggest you get the Blue Wave Winter Cover Seal for your above ground pool.
Pump
Designed specifically for solid pool sheets, an above ground pool cover pump sucks out puddled water from rain and snow. This prevents any algae from growing on your cover's surface, minimizes weight and pressure on the center of your cover, and mitigates the risk of drowning. There are lots of different designs available, but the most popular ones sit right on your swimming pool cover and suck up any water that accumulates around it.
Check out these Automatic Swimming Pool Cover Submersible Pump by Little Giant.
The 5 Best Covers for Above Ground Pools
1. Robelle 3524-4 Winter Round Above Ground Pool Cover
As our top choice for the best above ground winter pool cover, the Robelle 3524-4 was designed using heavy duty high quality polyethylene that weighs in at 2.36 oz per square yard. The durable material touts solid construction that works to keep pool water in and debris out. The heavy duty design also comes with an extra four feet of material to help make it easier to install.
The Robelle 3524-4 Winter Round Pool Cover comes complete with a cable and winch to further ease the entire installation process. Pre-fitted with several grommets along the edges, this 24 foot round winter pool cover touts an impressive 10 year manufacturer's warranty to give you a little extra confidence that you're buying a swimming pool cover for the long haul. And although it might not exactly be a decorative piece, this winter cover from Robelle comes in an assortment of colors to match your backyard.
2. Blue Wave Bronze Round Above Ground Winter Pool Cover
Blue Wave is pretty popular on the pool supplies scene, so it comes as no surprise that the Blue Wave Bronze Above Ground Round Pool Winter Cover has joined the leagues of the best picks on the market. Made from rugged high quality polyethylene scrim that's coated with a tough UV protective material, this Blue Wave winter cover can withstand even the worst of the colder seasons. Underneath, the 28 foot round pool cover touts a blackened surface that retards the growth of algae and even helps retain some heat through the cold winter months.
Complete with a cable and winch, this Blue Wave round swimming pool winter cover is particularly easy to install and provides up to four feet of extra material to prevent ripping and stretching. Designed to protect against sun, wind, snow, and even ice, this ultra durable choice from Blue Wave comes with an 8-year warranty against defects and damages. As one of the best above ground pool winter covers, this pick can last several years of storage and harsh winter weather.
3. Blue Wave NS110 Solar Blanket Above Ground Pools
Coming with a 3-year warranty, the Blue Wave NS110 Round Solar Blanket can be a suitable low-cost temperature regulator for your above ground pool. The Blue Wave design features thousands of raised bubbles that work to trap and transfer heat, effectively increasing your water's temperature by up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it a great choice if you want to keep your water warm overnight.
Aside from heating your water, this Blue Wave round solar blanket also prevents water and chemical loss by up to 95%. Using high-grade, UV protected polymer, the heavy duty Blue Wave NS110 Solar Blanket was designed to survive even the hottest weather. It's durable construction floats effortlessly on the surface of your pool and requires zero installation effort. And although it might not completely seal your above ground swimming pool, this Blue Wave 18 foot round cover does prevent most debris from getting into your pool.
4. Winter Block Above Ground Winter Pool Cover
Another pick in the running for the best above ground pool covers for winter is this round pool cover from Winter Block. It features durable construction using high quality laminated polyethylene sheeting that's woven with ultra thick high-density polyethylene stitching that minimizes the risk of ripping and tearing. This impressively thick material prevents all sorts of debris from getting into your pool, and keeps water and chlorine levels in check.
Considered one of the best above ground swimming pool covers around, this 18 foot round cover from Winter Block is durable yet lightweight, making it especially easy to install. It also comes with a few extra feet of material so that it doesn't fit too snugly over your swimming pool, allowing some room for compression and expansion depending on weather conditions in your area.
5. In the Swim Round Value Winter PoolCover
If you're working within a budget, then the In the Swim Round Value Winter Pool Cover might be for you. As one of the best budget-friendly winter pool covers, it features a lightweight material that provides full, solid coverage ideal for smaller swimming pool sizes. The cover uses a laminated polyethylene sheeting for added durability.
While it only comes with a modest 1-year warranty, the 27 foot round cover has gotten quite a lot of praise online as a reliable workhorse. Easy to install because of its lightweight material and construction, the above ground pool winter cover also works wonders to maintain temperatures (you can use a pool thermometer to check) thanks to its color and its thinness that allows heat to pass through.
Finding the Best Winter Pool Covers
Whether you're weather proofing or just looking for a way to keep the nasty stuff out, a round above ground cover for your pool can be an affordable yet a worthy investment. But there's a whole lot more to choosing an above ground pool winter cover than meets the eye. Make sure you check your options, know the specifics, and shop around to get your hands on the best above ground pool covers for your home.
