A good cover is half of winterising. It keeps out leaves and dirt, blocks the light algae feed on and means you use less product. But not all covers do the same job.

The main types

Solid winter cover

A PVC cover that blocks light completely. It's the best at stopping algae. The downside: rainwater collects on top and must be removed (with a small pump or a drainage system) so the weight doesn't stretch it.

Mesh winter cover

Lets rainwater through but keeps out leaves and dirt. No water builds up, but some light gets in, so the winter treatment needs to be good.

Bar cover

A cover stretched over aluminium bars resting on the pool edge. It's sturdier, takes weight and, if certified as a safety cover, protects against falls. It's the one to choose if there are children or pets at home, and it's easier to put on and take off.

Automatic or slatted cover

Slats that roll up with a motor. Convenient all year round, but a bigger and more expensive installation.

What about a bubble solar cover?

It isn't a winter cover. It's for warming the water and cutting evaporation in the swimming season. In winter, sun and cold damage it, and it doesn't keep dirt out like a proper cover.

Getting it right

Size: the cover must overlap the pool edge by whatever the anchoring system requires. Measure the water surface and the coping, not just the inside of the pool.
Anchoring: with tensioners and ground anchors or with weights. It's windy in Garraf, and a badly secured cover ends up in the water.
Safety: a standard winter cover is NOT a safety cover. If there are children, choose a certified one.

Looking after the cover

Clear leaves and standing water regularly.
Treat the water properly before covering: a cover won't fix unbalanced water.
In spring, clean it, let it dry completely and store it folded in the shade.

Not sure about size or type? Visit our shop in Cubelles or call +34 938 950 581 and we'll help you choose.

Which winter pool cover should you choose?