The Fair Covers 18 FT Round Above-Ground Pool Cover is built for homeowners who want reliable, long-lasting pool protection without the hassle of complicated installation or constant maintenance. Constructed from heavy-duty 600D Oxford polyester with a PU waterproof coating, double-stitched seams, and a stainless steel wire rope winch closure system, this cover delivers a secure, weatherproof fit that keeps your pool clean and ready to use — whether you're covering it between weekend swims or closing it down for the entire winter season.

Why 600D Oxford Polyester Matters

600D Oxford polyester is a commercial-grade fabric with significantly higher thread density than the 150D–300D materials used in most budget pool covers. The tighter weave creates a more effective physical barrier against debris, pollen, and insects, while the UV-stabilized fiber structure resists breaking down under prolonged direct sun exposure. The PU-coated underside forms a complete waterproof seal that prevents rain penetration and reduces pool water evaporation by up to 90% — keeping your water level stable and your chemical balance consistent without constant refilling and retreatment between uses.

Wire Rope Winch — A Stronger Closure Than Elastic or Clips

The stainless steel wire rope winch closure is what separates this cover from elastic-band and clip-based alternatives. Elastic bands lose tension after one season of UV exposure and repeated stretching. Clip systems require individual adjustment at dozens of points and still leave gaps where wind gets underneath. The wire rope threads through the reinforced double-layer hem and wraps continuously around the entire pool perimeter. A single hand-operated winch tightens the full circumference simultaneously — creating a drum-tight, wind-resistant fit with no gaps, no slack, and no weak points. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion from pool chemicals and outdoor moisture, maintaining its clamping force season after season. Installation is completely tool-free and takes under 5 minutes.

Construction Details That Make the Difference

Every seam on this cover is double-stitched. Single-stitch seams are the most common failure point on budget covers — one season of wind load is often enough to split them open. The black-bordered hem is double-layered to absorb and distribute perimeter stress evenly rather than concentrating it at weak points. Rust-resistant metal grommets are set into the hem at regular intervals to anchor the wire rope securely without creating tear points in the fabric under sustained tension.

What This Cover Actively Protects Your Pool From

An uncovered pool is continuously exposed to threats that increase your maintenance workload and chemical costs. UV radiation accelerates algae growth and degrades your pool liner over time. Airborne debris — leaves, pollen, insects, and grass clippings — sinks to the bottom and feeds bacterial and algae growth. Evaporation removes hundreds of gallons of treated water every week, forcing constant refilling and chemical rebalancing.

• UV Radiation — Blocks sunlight that breaks down water chemistry and fades pool liners prematurely
• Algae Growth — Without sunlight, algae cannot photosynthesize, reducing treatment costs by up to 50% per season
• Debris & Insects — Tight weave construction stops leaves, pollen, mosquitoes, and dirt at the surface before they reach the water
• Evaporation — Reduces water loss by up to 90%, keeping your water level and chemical balance stable between uses
• Rain Dilution — PU waterproof coating prevents rainwater from diluting pool chemistry and throwing off pH and sanitizer levels

Pool Compatibility

This cover is designed for 18-foot diameter round above-ground rigid frame pools. The cover itself measures approximately 20 feet across, providing the correct hem overhang for the wire rope to secure beneath the pool's top rail.

• Intex Metal Frame Pool — 18 ft Round
• Intex Ultra XTR Frame Pool — 18 ft Round
• Bestway Power Steel Pool — 18 ft Round
• Bestway Steel Pro MAX Pool — 18 ft Round
• Summer Waves Elite Frame Pool — 18 ft Round
• Most standard 18 ft round above-ground rigid frame pools

This cover is designed for rigid frame pools with a solid top rail. It is not recommended for inflatable ring-style pools such as Intex Easy Set, where the soft inflatable rim cannot provide a firm anchor point for the wire rope cable.

How To Install

Step 1 — For seasonal winter closure, lower the water level to approximately 4 inches below the skimmer opening. For between-use coverage during the swim season, maintain your normal water level.

Step 2 — Unfold the cover and lay it centered over the pool surface. Walk around the pool to confirm even overhang on all sides before securing.

Step 3 — Thread the stainless steel wire rope through the hem channel and through each grommet around the full perimeter of the cover.

Step 4 — Connect both cable ends to the winch mechanism and tighten by hand until the cover sits drum-tight against the pool frame with no visible slack.

Step 5 — Walk the perimeter one final time to confirm consistent tension and even overhang all the way around.

Pro Tip: For winter storage, place a round air pillow under the center of the cover before securing. The pillow creates a gentle dome shape that directs rainwater and snowmelt toward the pool edge rather than collecting in the center and stressing the cover seams under the weight of standing water.

Cover Care & Storage

Remove standing water from the cover surface promptly after rain using a submersible cover pump or by tilting the edge to drain. Rinse with fresh water at the start and end of each season to remove chemical residue and dirt. Allow the cover to dry fully before folding for storage — storing a damp cover promotes mildew. Clean with mild dish soap and a soft brush as needed. Do not use bleach or abrasive cleaners on the fabric.