7 DIY Pool Cover Experiences and Lessons Learned That Save Time and Money

Covering your pool yourself can save thousands while protecting your investment, but DIY solutions come with unexpected challenges many homeowners aren’t prepared for. We’ve compiled real experiences from pool owners who tackled their own cover installations, highlighting both triumphant successes and frustrating failures. These seven DIY pool cover stories will help you avoid common pitfalls and make informed decisions before you invest time and money in protecting your backyard oasis.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

1. Testing Canvas Covers: Affordable but Maintenance-Heavy

The Initial Appeal of Low-Cost Materials

Canvas pool covers initially caught my attention with their budget-friendly price tag of $75-150 compared to $300+ for vinyl alternatives. You’ll find these covers readily available at most home improvement stores, making them an accessible DIY option. Their lightweight nature also makes installation manageable for one person without specialized equipment, which seemed perfect for my first-time pool covering project.

Battling with Rainwater Pooling Issues

Canvas covers quickly became problematic during rainy seasons, with water pooling heavily in the center. Despite installing a drain system, my cover collected 30-40 gallons after moderate rainfall, causing sagging and tearing within just four months. You’ll need to regularly sweep water off with a pool brush or install an automatic cover pump ($50-100) to prevent damage—a maintenance task I hadn’t anticipated when choosing this budget-friendly option.

2. Building a Wooden Slat Cover: Sturdy but Labor-Intensive

After my frustrating experience with canvas covers, I decided to try building a wooden slat cover for my pool. This DIY option provided exceptional durability but demanded significant time and carpentry skills.

Creating a Rolling Mechanism for Easier Use

The rolling mechanism proved to be the most challenging aspect of my wooden slat cover project. I installed a track system along both sides of the pool with sturdy wheels attached to the cover frame. This allowed my family to roll the cover off with minimal effort, despite its 200+ pound weight. However, aligning the tracks perfectly required precise measurements and several adjustments before functioning smoothly.

Weatherproofing Challenges and Solutions

Cedar slats initially seemed ideal due to their natural weather resistance, but I quickly discovered they weren’t completely waterproof. After applying three coats of marine-grade sealant, the wood maintained its integrity through two rainy seasons. For connections, I replaced standard screws with stainless steel hardware after my first set rusted within months, causing structural weakness at critical junctions.

3. Installing a Mesh Safety Cover: Worth the Extra Effort

After experiencing the shortcomings of both canvas covers and wooden slat designs, I decided to invest in a mesh safety cover. This professional-grade option strikes an excellent balance between safety, durability, and maintenance requirements.

Drilling Into Concrete: Lessons in Proper Anchoring

Drilling anchor points into your pool deck requires precision and patience. I learned that using a hammer drill with a masonry bit is essential—regular drills won’t penetrate concrete effectively. Always mark your anchor locations carefully, measuring twice to ensure proper tension when the cover is installed.

The Unexpected Benefits for Wildlife Protection

A properly installed mesh safety cover prevents animals from accidentally falling into your pool. During my first winter using this cover, I discovered it had saved several small animals that would have otherwise drowned. The tight mesh creates a protective barrier while still allowing rainwater to filter through rather than pool dangerously.

4. Experimenting with Solar Bubble Covers: Heat Retention Success

After trying several cover options with mixed results, I decided to experiment with solar bubble covers (also called solar blankets) and was genuinely surprised by their effectiveness. These floating covers, with their bubble-wrap appearance, proved to be game-changers for maintaining water temperature and reducing evaporation.

DIY Reel Systems That Actually Work

Store-bought pool cover reels can cost $200-400, but I built a functional DIY system for under $75 using PVC pipes, end caps, and bearings. The key to success was mounting the bearings on elevated stands at each end of the pool, allowing for smooth rolling and unrolling without struggling. This setup made daily use practical rather than a dreaded chore.

Combining with Other Cover Types for Maximum Efficiency

I discovered that using the solar bubble cover during the day and switching to a solid safety cover at night created the perfect combination. The solar blanket captured heat during sunlight hours, while the safety cover prevented overnight heat loss and debris accumulation. This dual approach extended my swimming season by nearly six weeks while reducing heating costs by approximately 30%.

5. Tackling Automatic Cover Installation: A Two-Weekend Project

After exploring several DIY pool cover options, I decided to take on the challenge of installing an automatic pool cover system myself. What I initially thought would be a weekend project quickly expanded into a two-weekend adventure with plenty of lessons learned along the way.

Electrical Considerations I Wish I’d Known Earlier

You’ll need a dedicated 20-amp GFCI circuit for your automatic cover motor. I discovered this crucial requirement only after purchasing all components, forcing me to hire an electrician midway through installation. Always check the manufacturer’s electrical specifications first and consider your panel’s capacity before starting this project.

Cost Savings Versus Professional Installation

You can save approximately $2,000-3,500 by installing an automatic cover yourself. Professional installations typically run $7,000-12,000, while DIY kits cost $3,500-8,500 plus your time. The most significant savings come from labor costs, but remember that mistakes can quickly erode these savings if you have to call in professionals to fix issues.

6. Creating Custom-Fit Winter Covers: Measurements Matter

Material Selection Mistakes to Avoid

When choosing winter cover materials, avoid lightweight vinyl that tears easily under snow load. Many DIYers select materials based solely on price rather than durability. I learned this expensive lesson when my bargain-basement tarp ripped mid-winter, forcing an emergency replacement during freezing conditions. Choose reinforced polyethylene with at least 12-mil thickness for longevity and UV protection.

Effective Water Drainage Solutions

Never underestimate the weight of accumulated rainwater on your winter cover. My first custom cover became a birdbath within days, stretching the material and nearly collapsing inward. Installing a simple water pump eliminated this issue immediately. For the ultimate solution, incorporate a slight dome shape in your design or add strategically placed drainage holes with mesh filters to prevent debris from entering the pool.

7. Repurposing Materials for Emergency Covers: Creativity in Crisis

When disaster strikes and your pool cover fails, quick thinking and resourcefulness can save the day. Emergency situations demand creative solutions that protect your pool while you arrange for more permanent options.

Using Tarps and Bungees During Storm Season

Heavy-duty polyethylene tarps from hardware stores make excellent emergency pool covers during unexpected storms. You’ll need to secure them with bungee cords hooked to concrete anchors or deck hardware for stability. Overlapping multiple tarps creates better coverage for larger pools, while strategic placement of garden hoses on top prevents water pooling. Remember that while these solutions aren’t elegant, they’ve saved countless pools from debris contamination during critical weather events.

Transitioning from Temporary to Permanent Solutions

Your emergency cover shouldn’t become your permanent solution. Use the temporary setup to thoroughly research proper replacements that address the specific failures of your previous cover. Many pool owners find that their emergency solutions reveal important design considerations they hadn’t previously considered. Track how your temporary cover performs—noting water drainage patterns and stress points—to inform smarter permanent cover selection. This approach transforms a crisis into a valuable learning opportunity for long-term pool protection.

The Final Takeaway: Balancing DIY Ambition with Practical Pool Safety

Taking on a DIY pool cover project requires both creativity and pragmatism. While the cost savings can be substantial your time investment and maintenance requirements deserve careful consideration.

Whether you choose canvas mesh safety covers or build custom wooden solutions you’ll face unique challenges with each option. The key is matching your selection to your specific needs skill level and climate conditions.

Remember that even the best DIY installations require ongoing attention. Your willingness to adapt when things don’t go as planned will ultimately determine your success. By learning from others’ experiences you can approach your pool cover project with realistic expectations and achieve the perfect balance of protection affordability and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cost differences between canvas and vinyl pool covers?

Canvas pool covers typically cost between $75-150, making them significantly cheaper than vinyl alternatives that start at $300+. This initial price difference makes canvas covers appealing for budget-conscious pool owners. However, the long-term value should be considered as canvas covers often require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan than their vinyl counterparts.

How often do canvas pool covers need maintenance?

Canvas pool covers require frequent maintenance, especially during rainy seasons. You’ll need to regularly sweep off accumulated water to prevent sagging and tearing. For optimal maintenance, either check the cover after each rainfall or install an automatic cover pump to remove water. Without this regular attention, the cover’s lifespan will be significantly reduced.

What tools are needed for installing a mesh safety cover?

Installing a mesh safety cover requires a hammer drill with a masonry bit for creating anchor points in your pool deck, measuring tape for precise placement, and the manufacturer’s installation kit (typically includes springs, straps, and anchors). Having an assistant helps tremendously with proper tensioning. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for specific requirements.

Can DIY wooden slat covers be effective for pools?

Yes, DIY wooden slat covers can be highly effective and durable for pools when properly constructed and weatherproofed. They require carpentry skills, time, and materials like cedar slats (for natural weather resistance) and marine-grade sealant. For ease of use, incorporate a track system for rolling. However, expect significant upfront labor compared to commercial alternatives.

How much can you save by installing an automatic pool cover yourself?

DIY installation of an automatic pool cover can save between $2,000-3,500 compared to professional installation. However, this project requires electrical knowledge (including installing a dedicated 20-amp GFCI circuit), precision measurements, and potentially specialized tools. Mistakes can quickly erode these savings, so carefully assess your skills before proceeding.

What thickness of material is recommended for winter pool covers?

For winter pool covers, use reinforced polyethylene with at least 12-mil thickness. Lighter materials like standard vinyl tarps can tear under snow load, leading to emergency replacements mid-winter. The thicker material provides necessary durability to withstand harsh winter conditions, including heavy snow, ice, and fluctuating temperatures.

How do solar bubble covers affect pool heating costs?

Solar bubble covers can reduce heating costs by approximately 30% while extending the swimming season by up to six weeks. These covers trap heat from the sun, prevent evaporation, and maintain water temperature overnight. For maximum efficiency, use them during the day and switch to a solid safety cover at night.

What’s the best emergency solution when a pool cover fails?

When a pool cover fails unexpectedly, heavy-duty polyethylene tarps secured with bungee cords provide an effective temporary solution. Ensure the tarp extends at least 18 inches beyond the pool edge on all sides for proper anchoring. While this works for short-term protection during storms, begin researching permanent replacements immediately.

How can rainwater be managed on pool covers?

To manage rainwater on pool covers, either install an automatic cover pump that activates when water reaches a certain level, or design your cover with a slight dome shape and strategically placed drainage holes. For manual management, use a pool cover water pump after heavy rainfall or sweep water off with a broom before it accumulates.

Are mesh safety covers worth the investment?

Mesh safety covers offer excellent value by balancing safety, durability, and low maintenance requirements. They prevent accidental falls into the pool while allowing rainwater to filter through, eliminating water accumulation issues. They also protect wildlife from falling in. Though more expensive initially (typically $1,000-2,500 depending on size), their 7-15 year lifespan makes them cost-effective long-term.