Master How to Keep Your Above Ground Pool Cover Off the Water with 100% Confidence!

Why Your Pool Cover Keeps Sinking (And Why It Matters)

Pool covers tend to sink for several key reasons, and understanding these will help you prevent problems before they start. The most common culprit is simple rainwater and snow accumulation even a light rainfall can add hundreds of pounds of weight to your cover overnight. Combine this with improper installation, where small setup mistakes snowball into bigger issues, and you’ve got a recipe for sagging. Add in the natural effects of wind that can shift your cover’s position and the inevitable stretching that happens over time, and it’s clear why keeping your cover properly supported is so important. In this article, we’ll discuss how to keep your above ground pool cover off the water effectively.”

The consequences of a sagging cover go far beyond just looks. Standing water creates a cascade of problems that can cost you time and money. Your cover will stretch and possibly tear under the weight, while the top rails of your pool face unnecessary stress. That stagnant water isn’t just unsightly – it becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes and creates a serious safety hazard. Plus, when leaves and debris mix with standing water, they can leave stubborn stains on your cover that are nearly impossible to remove. Perhaps most frustrating of all, that added weight makes removing your cover a back-breaking chore when it’s time to open your pool.

Essential Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before we dive into solutions, let’s make sure you’re properly equipped for success. Think of this as your pool cover support toolkit – having these items on hand before you start will save you countless trips to the store and ensure you can complete the job right the first time.

The foundation of your toolkit starts with a pool cover pillow or alternative support system – I’ll help you choose the right size later. You’ll need a good set of cover clips or straps; in my experience, it’s wise to get about 20% more than you think you’ll need because they have a way of disappearing just when you need them most. Basic tools like a Phillips head screwdriver, pliers, and a utility knife will prove invaluable during installation.

For those looking to go the extra mile, consider investing in an automatic pool cover pump – it’s one of those purchases that quickly pays for itself in saved time and frustration. A leaf net can make debris removal significantly easier, and having a cover repair kit on hand can save you from emergency situations.

Method 1: The Pool Pillow Solution – Your Cover’s Best Friend

Let me tell you about the winter I skipped using a pool pillow – a mistake I won’t make twice. The pool pillow might seem like an optional accessory, but it’s actually the foundation of a proper cover setup. Think of it as the keystone that holds everything else in place.

Choosing the right pillow size is crucial. For pools up to 24 feet in diameter, a standard 4’x4′ pillow usually does the trick. Larger pools between 24 and 28 feet might need either a 4’x8′ pillow or two smaller ones. For pools over 28 feet, I’ve found that a multiple-pillow system works best.

Here’s the proper installation process:

1. Pillow Preparation:
   • Inflate to 60% capacity
   • Test compression with gentle pressure
   • Check for any leaks before placing
2. Positioning Steps:
   • Center the pillow carefully
   • Mark your pool walls for reference
   • Account for your area’s prevailing winds
3. Securing Method:
   • Use the built-in grommets
   • Create an X-pattern with strong cord
   • Double-knot all attachment points

I learned an expensive lesson about pillow maintenance the hard way. Check the inflation weekly – temperature changes can affect air pressure significantly. A monthly inspection for leaks can save you from finding a flat pillow when you need it most. And don’t forget to clean it before storage; a little effort now prevents deterioration later.

Method 2: Creating a Support System

Sometimes traditional methods need a creative twist. After years of experimentation, I’ve discovered some remarkably effective alternatives to the standard pool pillow. Let me share two of my favorite approaches that have proven themselves time and again.

The PVC Support Structure

This solution might sound unconventional, but it’s become my go-to recommendation for pools that need extra support. The beauty of this system lies in its customizability and durability. You’ll need:

1. Required Materials:
   • 1.5″ Schedule 40 PVC pipe
   • PVC joints (T-joints and elbows)
   • PVC cement
   • Foam pipe insulation
2. Assembly Process:
   • Design a dome structure with cross-supports
   • Cut pipes according to your pool size
   • Test fit before permanent assembly
   • Add foam insulation for liner protection

The total cost typically runs between $30-50, making it a budget-friendly alternative to commercial solutions that can easily exceed $100. The key to success with this method lies in proper planning and assembly – measure twice, cut once, as they say.

The Foam Board Approach

For smaller pools or as supplementary support, a foam board system can work wonders. The key is selecting the right materials and preparing them properly. Let me walk you through this elegant solution:

1. Material Selection:
   • 2″ thick rigid foam insulation
   • Marine-grade plywood for support
   • Waterproof tape
   • Pool noodles for edge protection
2. Installation Steps:
   • Cut foam board leaving 2″ clearance
   • Create drainage holes
   • Reinforce edges with plywood
   • Protect edges with pool noodles

Securing Your Cover Properly

The best support system in the world won’t help if your cover isn’t properly secured – this is where attention to detail makes all the difference. Let me share a technique I’ve refined over years of trial and error that has proven nearly foolproof, even in the harshest weather conditions.

Cover Clips: The Foundation of Security

Cover clips might seem straightforward, but there’s an art to their proper installation. Start by thoroughly cleaning your pool’s top rails – even a small amount of dirt or debris can compromise the grip of your clips. I’ve found that spacing clips every three feet along straight sections provides optimal hold, but corners need special attention. On corners, reduce that spacing to every two feet to account for the additional stress these areas face.

Here’s my tried-and-true installation process:

1. Initial Setup:
   • Clean rail surfaces thoroughly
   • Apply rust inhibitor if needed
   • Mark clip positions with a marker
   • Test each clip’s grip strength

One trick I’ve discovered over the years is to install clips at a slight angle – about 15 degrees – rather than perfectly straight. This creates additional tension that helps prevent slipping. Keep a few spare clips on hand; they have a mysterious way of disappearing just when you need them most.

Water Tube Mastery

Water tubes are your secret weapon against winter winds and heavy snow loads. The key is proper preparation and strategic placement. I fill my tubes to about 75% capacity – this might seem counterintuitive, but it allows for expansion when the water freezes. A little trick I’ve learned: add a cap of algaecide to the water before sealing the tubes. This prevents any algae growth inside the tubes, which can make them surprisingly slippery.

For optimal tube placement:

1. Strategic Positioning:
   • Overlap tubes by 12 inches minimum
   • Double up at stress points
   • Create gentle slopes for drainage
   • Secure ends with extra attention

The Art of Maintenance

Maintaining your pool cover is less about hard work and more about consistency and observation. Think of it as a daily conversation with your pool – a quick check can prevent major issues down the road.

Daily Vigilance

Each morning, take a quick walk around your pool. Look for any areas where the cover might be starting to dip or where debris has gathered. Listen for any unusual flapping sounds that might indicate a loose section. This daily ritual takes just a few minutes but can save hours of troubleshooting later.

Weekly Care Routine

Set aside about 30 minutes each week for a more thorough inspection. I like to do this on Sunday mornings – it’s become almost meditative. Start by checking your support system’s integrity. If you’re using a pillow, verify its inflation. For PVC or foam board systems, ensure nothing has shifted. Run your hand along the cables or ropes securing your cover, feeling for any spots that might have loosened.

Seasonal Transitions

Each season brings its own challenges, and adapting your maintenance routine accordingly is crucial. Let me break down the seasonal considerations I’ve learned to respect:

Winter Preparation

The key to winter success lies in thorough fall preparation. Before the first freeze, ensure your cover is absolutely taut. Any slack will collect snow and ice, creating dangerous weight loads. Install ice equalizers around the perimeter – these simple devices prevent ice damage by allowing water levels to equilibrate.

Consider this winter checklist:

1. Pre-Winter Setup:
   • Deep clean the cover surface
   • Check and reinforce all attachment points
   • Install ice equalizers
   • Prepare your snow removal strategy

Spring Transition

Spring brings its own set of challenges. As temperatures fluctuate, your cover will expand and contract. This is when having that proper support system really proves its worth. Keep a close eye on water accumulation from melting snow and spring rains. A good automatic cover pump becomes invaluable during this season.

Summer Storage

Proper summer storage can dramatically extend your cover’s life. Before storing, take time to:

1. Cleaning Process:
   • Remove all debris
   • Clean with appropriate solutions
   • Allow to dry completely
   • Apply UV protectant if needed

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with perfect maintenance, issues can arise. Let’s talk about solutions to common problems I’ve encountered and solved over the years.

Center Sagging Solutions

When your cover starts to develop a center sag, don’t panic. First, verify your support system’s integrity. If you’re using a pillow, check its inflation level. For PVC systems, ensure no joints have come loose. Sometimes, what appears as center sag is actually caused by the perimeter being too tight, pulling the center down.

Edge Problems and Fixes

Edge issues typically stem from one of three causes: improper tensioning, damaged clips, or shifted water tubes. The solution often lies in redistributing the tension rather than simply tightening everything. Think of your cover like a drum head – even tension all around creates the best results.

Dealing with Storm Damage

When severe weather strikes, having a plan in place can save your cover from serious damage. Here’s my storm preparation strategy:

1. Pre-Storm Measures:
   • Secure loose elements
   • Clear drainage paths
   • Ready your cover pump
   • Remove nearby debris

Professional Tips and Tricks

After years of maintaining pools, I’ve developed some unconventional but effective solutions. Here’s one of my favorites: use pool noodles in creative ways. Cut them lengthwise to create custom edge protectors, or stack them to build additional support structures. They’re incredibly versatile and much cheaper than specialty products.

For drainage issues, try this unique solution: create small channels using strategically placed tennis balls under your cover. They create subtle high points that direct water flow exactly where you want it.

When to Replace vs. Repair

The decision to repair or replace your cover isn’t always straightforward. Generally, small tears under six inches can be effectively repaired, especially if your cover is relatively new. However, when you start seeing multiple small tears, or if your cover has passed the five-year mark, replacement often proves more economical in the long run.

Consider replacement when you notice:

• Multiple repairs in different areas
• Significant stretching that won’t recover
• Deterioration around the edges
• Fading or brittleness from sun damage

Conclusion

Keeping your pool cover off the water is both an art and a science. It requires initial planning, proper execution, and consistent maintenance. But with the right approach and attention to detail, you can extend your cover’s life significantly while protecting your pool investment.

Remember, every pool setup is unique, and what works perfectly for one might need adjustment for another. Don’t be afraid to modify these techniques to suit your specific situation. The key is understanding the principles behind why certain methods work, then applying them to your particular circumstances.

Got questions about your specific pool cover challenges? Drop them in the comments below. After fifteen years of trial and error, I’ve probably encountered – and solved – whatever issue you’re facing!