Common Above Ground Pool Cover Questions (Answered)

If you own an above ground pool, you’ve probably asked at least one of these questions. How big of a cover do I need? Solid or mesh? Why does my cover keep coming loose? Do I really need one for winter?

These are the questions we hear most often from owners. Below are straightforward answers based on how covers actually perform on typical frame pools.

Buying and Sizing Questions

How do I know what size cover to buy?

Measure the outer rail of the pool — the outside edge of the top metal frame — not the water surface or the liner. For round pools, measure the diameter from outer rail to outer rail. For oval or rectangular, measure length and width the same way. Covers are made larger than the listed pool size to give proper overlap. Full measuring guidance is here: The Ultimate Above Ground Pool Cover Size & Material Guide.

Should I buy a solid cover or a mesh cover?

Solid covers block sunlight and keep most debris on top of the fabric. That makes them better for limiting algae and giving you a cleaner spring opening. Mesh covers let water drain through, so you don’t need a cover pump as often, but they also let more light in. For most owners who want the cleanest water after winter, solid is the better choice. Side-by-side comparison: Solid vs Mesh Above Ground Pool Covers.

Do I need a special “winter” cover?

A good solid above ground pool cover works for winter closing. What matters is correct size, solid fabric that blocks light, and a tension system that holds evenly. Many of the same solid covers used in the swimming season perform well through the off-season when installed properly.

Installation and Fit Questions

Why does my cover keep coming loose?

Usually one of three things: the cover is the wrong size, the tension isn’t even around the full perimeter, or the straps/cable have loosened after wind or temperature changes. Walk the entire rail and re-tighten any soft spots. A cover that starts tight can loosen over a few days of weather.

Step-by-step installation for both ratchet and cable systems is here: How to Install an Above Ground Pool Cover Correctly.

How tight should the cover be?

Tight enough that it doesn’t flap in normal wind and you can’t easily push a large gap open at the rail. It should feel firm, like a drum. Not so tight that it’s stressing the seams or pulling the top rail out of shape. Re-check after the first few days — fabric can settle a little.

Maintenance and Care Questions

How do I keep the cover clean during winter?

Remove leaves and debris regularly so weight stays even. Dry leaves can be blown or brushed off. Wet leaves are easier to scoop with a leaf rake. On a solid cover, pump off standing water after heavy rain or snow so the fabric doesn’t stretch under constant load. A cover that stays loaded with water and leaves fails earlier.

Full cleaning and storage steps are here: How to Maintain an Above Ground Pool Cover.

Can I repair a small tear?

Small, isolated holes can often be patched if the surrounding fabric is still strong and flexible. Once the material is brittle across large areas or multiple attachment points are failing, patching becomes a temporary fix at best and replacement is usually the better path.

How should I store the cover when it’s not in use?

Make sure it’s completely dry on both sides before folding. Store it loosely in a cool, dry place out of direct sun. Damp storage is one of the fastest ways to get mildew, odors, and weakened fabric. Don’t compress it tightly or leave it where it can be walked on or punctured.

Winter and Closing Questions

Do I really need a cover for winter?

For most above ground pools, yes. An uncovered pool gets continuous sunlight and a steady load of leaves and debris. That combination usually means more algae, more chemicals, and more work at opening. A solid cover blocks light and keeps most debris on top of the fabric. What happens without one is covered here: What Happens If You Don’t Cover Your Above Ground Pool for Winter?.

What’s the best order for closing the pool?

Clean the pool first, balance the water and add winter chemicals, protect the equipment, install an air pillow if you use one, then put the cover on and tension it evenly. Doing the cover last (after the water is clean and balanced) gives the best results. Full checklist: The Complete Above Ground Pool Closing Checklist.

Should I use an air pillow under the cover?

Yes, in most cases. An inflated pillow in the center helps the cover shed water and snow instead of letting it pool in the middle. It also reduces stress from ice expansion in colder climates. Inflate it enough to create a gentle dome, not so much that it strains the cover.

Lifespan and Replacement Questions

How long should a pool cover last?

It varies with material quality, UV exposure, how well it’s tensioned, and how it’s stored. Some covers fail in one or two seasons; others last five or more with good care. Correct size, even tension, prompt water removal, and dry storage make the biggest difference. More on expected life: How Long Do Above Ground Pool Covers Last?.

When should I replace the cover instead of repairing it?

Replace when the fabric is brittle across large areas, seams keep failing after patches, attachment points pull out easily, or you can no longer get even tension. Continuing to patch a cover that’s at the end of its life usually costs more time than it’s worth.

Timing a replacement purchase is covered here: When Is the Best Time to Buy or Replace an Above Ground Pool Cover?.

Finding the Right Cover

If you’re shopping now, look for a solid cover in the correct outer-rail size with a tension system you can tighten evenly (ratchet straps or cable-and-winch). Those three factors — solid fabric, right size, reliable tension — determine most of the real-world performance.

Browse current solid covers in round, oval, and rectangular sizes: All Above Ground Pool Covers. Round sizes are also listed here: Round Above Ground Pool Covers.

Still Have a Question?

Most cover problems come down to size, tension, or basic care. Get those three right and the cover does its job — blocking light, keeping debris out, and giving you a cleaner pool when you open it again.

For the full closing process, start with the checklist: The Complete Above Ground Pool Closing Checklist.