Which Winter Safety Cover Is Right for Your Pool? A Quick Picker
Answer four questions and get a starting recommendation: mesh or solid. The picker below uses the same trade-offs as our mesh vs. solid guide for Maryland, DC, Virginia and West Virginia, applied to Latham’s current models. It is a starting point, not a quote. Your final model is confirmed on your quote.
By the Calm Water Pools Team | Last verified: September 28, 2026
The same logic as a table
| If this describes you | Lean toward |
|---|---|
| Few trees, modest sun, and you want the least winter work | Mesh: 7000MS or 9000MX (99% sunlight blocked); the 5000M (91%) if shade is not a concern |
| Heavy tree cover or fine dust, and you are happy to check the cover after storms | Solid: 1000HS (100% sunlight blocked) |
| Sunny yard with a history of spring algae | Solid, or one of the 99% meshes with careful closing chemistry |
| Colder western edge, or you travel in winter | Mesh, for the no-pump simplicity |
Both types are anchored safety covers, and neither replaces a required pool fence or barrier, so check with your county building department. Calm Water Pools sells the cover; installation is not included. For a fiberglass pool, follow your shell manufacturer's written winter instructions for water level, and do not drain the shell.
Ready to order? Our winter safety covers page explains the process, and our timeline guide shows when to call.