What Are the Negatives of a Pool Cover? (And How to Avoid Them)

Swimming Pools Blog

Pool covers are fantastic for safety, cleanliness, and energy savings—but they’re not perfect. If you’re weighing the downsides before buying (or replacing) one, here are the most common drawbacks, why they happen, and how to minimize them.

1) Up-Front Cost

Quality safety covers—especially custom-fit models—aren’t cheap. Between the cover, hardware, and measuring, the initial spend can sting. The bright side: a properly sized, well-built cover usually lasts many seasons and keeps debris (and UV) out, which can offset maintenance costs over time. (Read more)

2) Anchors Require Drilling

Safety covers are tensioned into recessed anchors set in your decking. That means drilling into concrete, pavers, or wood. If you’re not comfortable adding anchors (or your deck is delicate), this can feel like a negative. When installed correctly and kept flush, anchors are low-profile—but installation quality matters. (Read more)

3) Handling & Storage Can Be a Hassle

Covers are large, heavy, and awkward to fold, move, and store—especially solid covers. If you open/close solo, expect a learning curve. A storage bag, a clear folding routine, and a clean, dry spot reduce mildew and make next season easier. (Read more)

4) Debris & Fine Silt With Mesh

Mesh covers let rain and snowmelt pass through so water doesn’t pool on top—but ultra-fine silt can still make its way into your water, leaving a light film to vacuum at spring opening. Choosing tighter-weave mesh reduces this tradeoff; some owners prefer solid covers to block everything (at the cost of pumping off surface water). (Read more)

5) Water Accumulation on Solid Covers

Solid covers block sunlight (great for suppressing algae), but they collect rain and snowmelt. Without a cover pump, that water can add weight and stress and create a messy “pond” on top. Plan on using a reliable pump and checking it after storms. (Read more)

6) Wear, Tear, and Hardware Fatigue

Covers live outdoors—sun, ice, wind, and abrasion around coping and corners all add up. Over time you may replace springs, straps, or anchors, and heavily shaded or windy yards can be tougher on fabric. Keeping tension correct and brushing debris off the cover reduces chafing and premature wear. (Read more)

7) Not “Set-and-Forget”

Covers cut winter work, but they aren’t maintenance-free. You’ll still inspect tension, clear sticks after wind, pump water off a solid cover, and do a quick check after heavy snow. A few five-minute touch-ups through winter prevent bigger problems at opening. (Read more)

8) Aesthetics & Everyday Convenience

Even sleek safety covers change the look of your backyard for the off-season, and they add one more step if you want a spontaneous swim during shoulder months. Automatic systems minimize friction here but come at a premium. (Read more)

9) Fit Problems With Generic Covers

One-size-fits-most winter tarps can sag, tear, or leave gaps around steps and benches—letting debris in and shortening lifespan. Custom-measured safety covers solve the fit issue, but they cost more up front. (Read more)

10) Installation Isn’t for Everyone

Precise measuring and anchor layout are critical; mistakes lead to wrinkles, stress points, and premature wear. Many homeowners prefer professional measuring to ensure a tight, clean fit and straightforward ownership. (Read more)

Mesh vs. Solid: Choosing the Lesser Evil (for your yard)

  • Mesh: Lighter to handle; no puddles on top; may let a bit of fine silt through.
  • Solid: Blocks sunlight to help suppress algae; needs a pump to remove surface water; heavier to move.
    Pick based on climate (rain/snow vs. lots of leaves), springtime opening preferences, and how much handling you’re comfortable with. (Read more)

How to Minimize the Downsides

  • Go custom for a clean, taut fit around steps, benches, and water features.
  • Use a cover pump (for solid covers) and check it after storms.
  • Keep tension balanced and clear branches promptly to reduce rubbing.
  • Store it dry and folded consistently to prevent mildew and creasing. (Read more)

A Smarter Way to Replace Your Cover

If your current cover is worn or ill-fitting, Calm Water Pools can help you upgrade to a custom Latham® safety cover without the measurement headache:

  • No-install service (product sales only)
  • Free pickup of your existing cover for precise measuring
  • Exact quote before production
  • Fast turnaround (typical orders ~2 weeks, seasonal variance)

When you’re ready to trade the typical negatives—poor fit, puddling, and premature wear—for a streamlined, safer setup, explore our Winter Safety Covers.

P.S. Prefer to talk it through first? Call 240-372-4440 and we’ll help you choose the right material and fit for your pool.