Suppose you own a pool and have little children or pets in your household. Then, safety should be your primary concern. A growing number of pool owners, especially families with small children and pets, choose to invest in safety pool covers in Lafayette. A durable pool cover protects kids and pets from an unsupervised swimming pool. Anyone who cannot swim will feel safe walking by and around the pool if it’s securely covered.
This article covers everything you want to know about safety pool covers—their material and benefits, and how to get the best covers for your needs.
What is a safety pool cover, and what is it made of?
A safety pool cover is designed to protect a swimming pool from accidental drownings and keep it clean. These covers are strong enough to support the weight of one or more adults, making them a crucial safety feature for households with children or pets.
Here are the common materials used for the making of safety pool covers:
- Polyethylene (PE) – Known for its lightweight and high strength, PE is resistant to UV rays and harsh weather conditions.
- Polypropylene (PP) – This material is also strong and durable. It is also resistant to chemicals, UV rays, and water absorption.
- Vinyl – Heavy-duty vinyl is often used for its strength and resistance to tears and punctures. It’s also UV-resistant and can withstand harsh weather.
- Mesh – Mesh covers are made of woven material that allows water to drain through while keeping debris out. They are lighter and easier to handle but may not support as much weight as solid covers.
These covers are typically anchored to the pool deck with heavy-duty springs and straps, ensuring they stay in place and provide maximum safety.
How does a safety pool cover keep everyone safe?
A safety pool cover helps keep children and pets safe by providing a secure barrier, preventing accidental falls into the pool. Here’s how it works:
- Strong material: Safety pool covers are made from durable materials such as reinforced vinyl or mesh, which can support a person or pet’s weight and prevent them from falling into the water.
- Tight fit: These covers fit tightly over the pool, eliminating gaps where a child or pet could slip through.
- Anchoring system: They are securely anchored to the deck or surrounding area, ensuring the cover stays in place and doesn’t sag under weight.
- Barrier effect: The cover acts as a physical barrier to the pool, making it difficult for children and pets to access the pool unsupervised.
- Visibility: Some covers are opaque, which can also deter children and pets as they can’t see the water, reducing the temptation to approach the pool.
- Locking mechanism: Many safety covers have locking mechanisms or require tools to remove, adding an extra layer of security to prevent children from removing the cover themselves.
A combination of these features is what makes a safety pool cover genuinely safe. It provides peace of mind to pool owners by significantly reducing the risk of accidental drownings.
The other benefits of safety pool covers
See the pool cover as an investment. Aside from safety, you’ll enjoy many other benefits that make your pool cover worthy of purchase. Here are the other benefits of safety pool covers beyond safety:
- Energy efficiency – They help retain heat, reducing energy costs associated with heating the pool.
- Water conservation – By preventing evaporation, they help conserve water and reduce the need for frequent refilling.
- Cleaner pool – They keep debris, leaves, and dirt out of the pool, reducing the need for cleaning and maintenance.
- Chemical savings – Pool covers keep contaminants out and reduce evaporation, maintaining the pool’s chemical balance and leading to savings on pool chemicals.
- Extended swimming season – By retaining heat, they can extend the swimming season in cooler climates.
- Aesthetic appeal – Modern pool covers come in various designs and colors, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the pool area.
- Durability – High-quality safety covers are built to last, providing long-term protection for the pool.
These additional benefits make safety pool covers a valuable investment for pool owners.
How do you choose the best safety pool cover?
You can see many pool covers in the market, but not all are “safety” covers. Choosing the best safety pool cover involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your needs for safety, durability, and maintenance. Here are some tips to help you select the best safety pool cover:
1. Determine the type of cover:
- Solid covers: If you choose these covers, they help prevent debris and sunlight from entering the pool, which can help reduce algae growth. They are heavy and may require a pump to remove accumulated water.
- Mesh covers: These allow water to drain through but keep larger debris out. They are lighter and easier to handle, but they let sunlight through, which might promote algae growth.
2. Material quality:
- Look for covers made from high-quality, durable materials such as reinforced vinyl or heavy-duty mesh. These materials withstand harsh weather conditions and last longer.
3. Safety features:
- Ensure the cover can support a person’s or pet’s weight to prevent accidental drownings. Check for features like reinforced straps and anchors that secure the cover tightly.
4. Size and fit:
- Measure your pool accurately and choose a cover that fits properly. An ill-fitting cover can leave gaps, reducing its effectiveness and safety.
5. Ease of use:
- Consider how easy it is to install and remove the cover. Some covers come with automatic reels or manual systems that simplify the process.
6. Maintenance:
- Choose a cover that is easy to clean and maintain. Mesh covers typically require less maintenance than solid covers since they don’t collect water and debris on the surface.
7. Warranty:
- Look for covers with a good warranty, indicating the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability and performance.
8. Budget:
- While you must stick to your budget, remember that investing in a high-quality cover can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance costs and extending the cover’s lifespan.
9. Compliance with safety standards:
- Ensure the cover complies with local safety regulations and standards. Doing so can provide peace of mind that the cover meets essential safety criteria.
10. Customer reviews and recommendations:
- Check reviews and ask for recommendations from other pool owners or professionals. Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into the cover’s performance and durability.
Considering these factors enables you to find a safety pool cover that provides maximum protection, durability, and ease of use, ensuring your pool remains safe and clean.
Nothing is more assuring than seeing your family safe and out of harm’s way. It is especially true when they walk around in an unsupervised pool securely closed with a durable safety pool cover.
Discover safety and other benefits offered by Pool Covers, Inc.! Contact us for questions or order inquiries. Call us today at 707-864-6674. We look forward to speaking with and helping you!
