Build your own pool cover - This is important!

Advantages of a Pool Cover

Building your own pool cover often has the advantage of being significantly cheaper than buying one. Additionally, by building it yourself, you can either use a convenient kit or create a cover entirely tailored to your needs.

Before diving into how to build your own pool cover, here are three great reasons why you should invest in one:

1. Protection from Dirt

A major advantage of a pool cover is that it protects your pool from debris. Pools in backyards are often surrounded by trees and plants, leading to leaves, pollen, insects, and other dirt entering the water, which then requires time-consuming cleaning.

Besides visible dirt, sunlight entering the water promotes algae growth, meaning you'll have to frequently change or treat the water.

A pool cover minimizes these problems, keeping dirt out and blocking sunlight, which results in cleaner water and reduced use of pool chemicals.

2. Safety for Children and Pets

Another key advantage is the safety a pool cover provides. While pools are a source of joy, they can also be dangerous. A fall into the pool can be life-threatening, especially for small children and pets who can't swim.

A pool cover can help prevent such accidents, providing added safety. Depending on your pool type, different covers can be more suitable.

3. Saving Money and Energy

Finally, a pool cover makes pool enjoyment more economical. By using a pool cover, you can significantly reduce maintenance costs. Covers reduce water evaporation and minimize heat loss.

This means you'll need to refill and heat the water less often, saving money and being environmentally friendly.

Pool Cover Basics: An Overview

Before building your pool cover, familiarize yourself with the different types of covers available. Here’s a quick overview:

Seasonal Pool Covers

The simplest option is a pool cover tarp, available in various types.

While you can buy these covers, you'll still need a mechanism to secure them. Aluminum rods are a common choice.

Roller Pool Covers

Roller covers provide excellent protection against dirt and heat loss and are often sturdy enough to prevent children from falling in. They also have a sleek appearance. With some effort, they can be built using aluminum flat profiles.

While installation is simple, these covers require regular cleaning, as dirt can collect in the roller box. Additionally, they’re best suited for rectangular pools and aren't ideal for winter use.

Safety Pool Covers

These covers are less visually appealing than roller covers but offer greater durability. They consist of a sturdy tarp reinforced with aluminum rods, making them highly load-bearing. They can be operated manually with a crank or an electric motor.

This winter-proof, user-friendly option is also relatively easy to build.

Round Pool Covers

For round pools, creativity is key. Consider building a convertible pool cover: a frame of aluminum rods covered with transparent plastic. The movable structure can open and close like a car roof, allowing use even when covered. While easy to assemble, this option isn't suitable for winter.

For oval pools, consider domes, rail systems, or movable roof panels. Installing four posts around the pool with a durable, adjustable roof offers both summer and winter protection.

Pool Enclosures

Pool enclosures are the most luxurious option. They provide full protection, a stylish look, and allow you to swim even in rain. Built on tracks, they can be easily slid open in good weather.

Constructing enclosures requires more planning than other covers but offers long-term benefits. Once built, they ensure robust protection and elegant functionality for years.

The Right Solution for Your Pool

As you can see, there are numerous ways to securely cover your pool. Instead of providing a simple "how-to," we encourage you to explore your options thoroughly. Once you've decided on a type, building your pool cover will be straightforward.

Step-by-Step: Planning Your Pool Cover

When Will You Start Your Pool Cover Project?

We hope this post inspires you to move forward with your pool cover project. With a bit of DIY effort, you can save money and create a solution tailored to your needs.

Note: While a sturdy pool cover can prevent accidents, never leave children or pets unattended near a pool. A pool cover reduces risks but doesn’t eliminate them entirely.