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The Good, Bad, and Ugly of a Pool Cover instead of an Enclosure

The Good, Bad, and Ugly of a Pool Cover instead of an Enclosure
Pool enclosure IMPERIA - low line pool cover - fully closed

Your pool is an investment, one that can and should be protected. It’s important to choose the right kind of cover to suit your needs. There are many types of different pool protectants to choose from. The two primary types are covers and enclosures.

Pool Covers

Pool covers, also known as pool blankets, are a piece of material that spreads on the surface of a swimming pool. These covers can be made of different materials, commonly using PVC, coated tarpaulin, or vinyl, and come in many colors and designs. They protect the surface of the pool water from external environmental factors such as leaves and bugs. There are four types of pool covers that are commonly used: inground or above ground pool covers, safety pool covers, and solar pool covers.

Inground/Above Ground Pool Covers

PROS:

  • Inground/above ground pool covers keeps the water clean by covering the surface of the swimming pool
  • Reduces cleaning costs by keeping out leaves and debris
  • Many kinds of materials and designs
  • The cheapest option when looking for a basic pool cover

CONS:

  • While these basic covers are usually cheap, they tend to need to be replaced every 5-7 years, making them expensive in the long run.
  • Are not always sturdy enough to protect people and animals from falling in
  • Can’t swim under these covers
  • Don’t regulate pool temperatures
  • Must clean the top of the cover before it can be rolled up and the pool can be used

 


 

 

Safety Pool Covers

PROS

  • Safety pool covers are made with the same materials as inground/above ground covers and leaf nets but have the added protection of being secured to the ground
  • Prevent children and animals from falling in
  • Don’t blow away or off in heavy weather
  • Come in two types: solid and mesh
  • Solid covers keep out leaves and debris but require a drain as they are impermeable
  • Mesh covers allow rainwater into the pool but keep out leaves and debris

CONS

  • Tend to need to be replaced every 5-7 years, making them expensive in the long run
  • Can’t swim under these covers
  • Don’t regulate pool temperatures
  • Must clean the top of the cover before it can be rolled up and the pool can be used
  • Mesh safety covers can allow some debris to fall through such as little bugs or small leaves
  • Solid covers require a pump or drain to remove water and debris from the top of the cover

 

 

Solar Pool Covers

PROS

  • Keeps water warm by capturing heat from the sun
  • Help reduce evaporation, saves on your water bill
  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Protects pool from sun rays
  • Types include bubble blankets, solar sun rings and automatic covers
  • Inexpensive option
  • Reduces cleaning costs by keeping out leaves and debris
  • Lowers cost of heating the pool

CONS

  • Bubble blankets and solar sun rings are not sturdy enough to protect people and animals from falling in
  • Can let some debris through
  • Will rip and needs to be replaced

 

 

 

Pool Enclosures

Pool enclosures are high quality structures that cover the entirety of the pool. Enclosures are typically made out of solid polycarbonate sheets and aluminium rails. They are customizable and are available in different size options- low, medium, and high profile. Like pool covers, they protect the pool from hard weather and debris.

 

 

PROS

  • Polycarbonate panels block UV radiation and protect swimmers’ skin
  • Allows you to enjoy your pool throughout the year
  • You can swim underneath an enclosure
  • Maintains pool temperature and lowers the cost of heating the pool
  • Reduced evaporation loss
  • Prevents algae growth
  • Better water quality and reduces the amount of water treatment chemicals
  • Prevents children and animals from falling in with safety features and locks
  • Offers additional space for gatherings
  • Can be easily retractable for open-air swimming
  • No need to open and close your pool each season
  • Made to last
  • Ability to swim all year

CONS

  • More expensive
  • Takes up more space

 

Why Should I Get a Pool Enclosure?

Worthy Investment:

While pool enclosures are a bigger initial investment, they reduce costs in the long run. The polycarbonate that the enclosure is made out of creates a greenhouse effect on the pool, creating warm water even in cooler weather. This lowers heating costs significantly. Cleaning costs are also reduced as the structure also conveniently keeps out dirt, debris, and animals from ending up in the pool. The sliding structure of enclosures allows you to close the pool when it’s not being used, thus prevent leaves, insects, and pollen to be blown into your swimming area. Protection from hard weathering under the enclosure also lowers maintenance costs. Keeping your pool out of the elements means less chipping, cracking, and wear and tear! Lastly, an enclosure also reduces chemical costs reducing water evaporation.

Safety:

Pool enclosures are also much safer than pool covers. For those with families or pets, swimming pool safety can be a major concern. All enclosures can be retracted and locked to prevent unauthorized access. Unlike pool covers, which do not guarantee protection from drowning or falling into the pool, pool enclosures fully prevent access to the pool, making injuries much less likely.

Year-Round Pool Usage:

Pool enclosures are also a great purchase if you want to extend the season or utilize your pool all year round! With an enclosure, there’s no need to open or close your pool for the season. The enclosure retains heat and helps keep your pool water warm, even in the winter months. In addition, the enclosures are spacious enough to swim under, meaning you can host pool parties any time of the year!

Customizable:

All pool enclosures are customizable to match your wants and needs! Choose from a variety of heights, shapes, and sizes to match your pool and backyard. Have an irregular pool shape? Not to worry! Customized pool enclosures can be made to fit your pool!

Dreaming about swimming all year round already? Check out our diverse pool enclosure selection and get a free quote today or contact us to get more information! Our products have won numerous awards, their quality and high functionality are emphasized by experts worldwide. We only use high quality and durable materials.