How to Fit a Swimming Pool Cover

Pool covers exist for safety and convenience.

Covering your pool is a necessity of pool ownership. Not only is it a safety feature, since it prevents children and pets from falling in, but it is also a convenience for keeping debris out of your pool. There are also solar covers, which harness the sun and heat the water in the pool. This means you can use the pool earlier in the season. Every pool manufacturer has different guidelines for measuring their pools, but below is the basic procedure to follow for an accurate measurement.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Paper
• Pencil
• Chalk line

Instructions

1. Determine the shape of your pool. If it is square or rectangular, your job is easy. If it is some other shape, your measurement is more involved.

2. Measure your pool's width at its widest point. If it is kidney shaped, for instance, imagine lines drawn around it to make it rectangular. The widest point will be the center, as the upper and lower ends curve one way and the center that curves another.

3. Measure the height of the pool at its widest point. See step two for determining this measurement since the same rules apply.

4. Record your findings to present at the time of your pool cover purchase. For odd-shaped pools, a rough diagram can also be of help to the salesman assisting you.

Tips & Warnings

• A chalk line can be useful for oddly shaped pools, as it will draw a line for you when determining your widest point. Include permanent features like steps and seats in your measurement.

• If in doubt, go to your pool's manufacturer for tips on measuring and fitting a cover properly to avoid costly mistakes.

References

• How do I measure my pool to fit a Solar Blanket?

Resources

• Inground Pool Cover: Introduction to Inground Security Pool Covers
• Pool Center: Solar Heating and Blankets