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The Captain’s Guide to Protecting Your Vessel

At Pool Pirates, we get asked this a lot. While a standard winter tarp might keep some leaves out, it won’t stop a “scallywag” (or a heavy pet) from falling into the water. If you’re weighing your options in the East Kootenays, here is everything you need to know about the life expectancy, pros, and cons of professional safety covers.

Are Pool Safety Covers Worth It?

In short: Aye. While the upfront cost is higher than a hardware-store tarp, a safety cover is a long-term investment in both safety and savings.
A standard tarp is a drowning hazard because it can act like a “slip-and-slide” into the water. A safety cover is anchored into your deck, creating a surface so tensioned it can support the weight of an adult.
Beyond safety, you save on time getting the pool ready for the season, use less chemicals, and you’ll lose less water from evaporation.

How long do safety pool covers last?

A high-quality safety cover isn’t a one-season wonder.

• Mesh & Solid Covers typically last 10 to 15 years if properly maintained and stored.
• Automatic Covers tend to vary. The fabric usually lasts 7 to 10 years, while the mechanical stainless steel components (like those from Coverstar™) can last 20+ years.

The Great Debate: Mesh vs. Solid

Choosing between mesh and solid is the biggest decision you’ll make. Here’s the “pirate’s perspective” on the pros and cons:

Mesh Safety Covers

These are made of a high-strength weave that allows water to pass through but keeps debris out.

• Pros: Very lightweight (easy for one person to handle), no water accumulates on top (no need for a pump), and they are generally more affordable.
• Cons: Because they let in fine silt and some sunlight, you might open your pool to “green” water in the spring, requiring more chemicals to clear it up.

Solid Safety Covers

These are made of solid vinyl that blocks 100% of sunlight and water.

• Pros: The “gold standard” for cleanliness. Since no sunlight hits the water, algae can’t grow. You open the pool to crystal-clear water every time.
• Cons: They are heavier to move. Also, water will pool on top, so you must use a “cover pump” to drain rain and melted snow to prevent the weight from damaging the springs.

Pros & Cons at a Glance for Mesh and Automatic Covers

*main pool cover image courtesy of Coverstar™