We're the #1 Pool Safety Barrier Provider in the U.S.
A high-quality safety cover is non-negotiable when it comes to securing your pool. Whether you’re trying to keep your family safe, reduce maintenance, or comply with legal requirements, a pool safety cover is essential. Not only do these covers protect your pool from debris, but they also help prevent accidental drowning by meeting or exceeding the ASTM F1346 safety standard.
But how do you know which pool cover is best for you? Does it depend on size, weight, material, features, or a little bit of everything?
We’ve researched many different types of pool covers and narrowed them down to the best pool covers made from reliable material, ASTM compliant, and equipped with various key features.
When it comes to premium, high-performance pool safety covers, Pool Guard stands out as a top choice for homeowners. Known for its exceptional quality and unmatched performance, Pool Guard is a leader in the industry, setting the standard for pool safety and efficiency. That said, Pool Guard covers are the best inground pool covers without a doubt in mind, especially if you are looking for a pool cover to keep the debris out, reduce evaporation, maintain heat, and lower the chemical use for a hassle-free pool opening.
The cover is constructed either with premium polypropylene mesh or solid materials, with both options meeting or exceeding ASTM safety standards, ensuring reliable performance throughout the year.
The best mesh pool cover features a patented mesh material blend that sets it apart from standard pool covers. This innovative design allows for rain and snow to pass through the cover, effectively preventing water accumulation and eliminating potential standing water hazards. Offering 97% UV protection, the mesh cover helps maintain your pool’s cleanliness and reduces the wear and tear caused by harsh sunlight, ultimately extending the life of your pool area.
It’s safe to say, Pool Guard has something for everyone. If you are after maximum UV protection and minimizing the time spent on cleaning and maintenance, do we have the option for you. Made of durable polyethylene, Pool Guard solid pool cover creates an impermeable barrier against leaves, branches, and other debris that can accumulate in your pool during the off-season.
We tested the covers on our client’s pools during installation and were surprised to notice how effectively they prevent water evaporation and maintain the temperature. As a leading pool cover manufacturer, Pool Guard pool covers conserve 97% of water, contributing to substantial water waste, while retaining heat and keeping the pool water at a cool temperature.
You can count on this pool cover to stay in place through heavy rain or snowfall. It has a tamper-proof design that prevents entry without an installation rod, but allows easy installation and removal. The advanced locking mechanisms, slip-resistant surfaces, and wind-resistant materials all work together to withstand harsh weather conditions and support unexpected weight.
What we liked the most, besides the covers being highly durable, is that Pool Guard offers customized pool covers. Suitable for in-ground pools, these covers offer a custom-fit for residential and commercial pools, including unique pool shapes such as freeform or infinity pools.
Pool Guard strongly believes in their pool covers, so it offers a 15-year limited warranty on premium mesh or solid covers, with a 3-year full coverage guarantee. Considering the unmatched durability, plus the 15-year warranty you definitely cannot go wrong.
Pros
Cons
Homeowners and commercial pool facilities seeking a premium, high-performance pool cover that offers long-lasting protection, compliance with safety standards, and efficiency in maintaining water temperature and cleanliness. Ideal for those who prioritize both safety and long-term durability, especially in areas with varying weather conditions.
| Dimensions | Thickness | Pool type | Material | Supported Weight | Sun protection |
| Custom fit | 12 mil | In-ground | Polypropylene mesh or polyethylene | At least 485 lbs | 97% UV-protection |
Pool Covers Inc. offers a wide range of high-quality safety swimming pool covers that cater to all pool shapes, sizes, and styles. Whether you’re looking for a fully automatic pool cover or a more budget-friendly manual option, they provide customized solutions that prioritize safety and efficiency while maintaining a visually appealing pool environment.
Their Infinity 4000™ automatic pool cover system boasts advanced features, including bi-directional anti-reversing auto-stops, a remote key switch, and a sealed motor for flood resistance. Available with both electric and hydraulic power options, this system is designed to meet the needs of different pool types, providing flexibility in its application.
For pools that may not accommodate an automatic cover, Pool Covers Inc. offers manual covers. While these manual covers are functional and cost-effective, they haven’t been proven to be as durable as the best pool safety covers for inground pools – the Pool Guard pool covers. Manual snap-down covers require a more hands-on approach, as the cover must be manually attached to the pool deck using spring-loaded life-lock anchors, which are released with a life-lock safety tool. This process can be time-consuming, especially for larger pools or for those who use the pool frequently.
One area where Pool Covers Inc. falls short is in water conservation. While these covers do help retain some water, the exact level of water retention isn’t specified, leaving homeowners uncertain of the full benefits. This lack of transparency can be a concern for homeowners looking to reduce water waste and lower their utility bills.
While Pool Covers Inc. offers solid safety covers that meet ASTM standards, the manual snap-down option may present reliability concerns, especially if the cover fails to close properly. If the cover doesn’t close as intended, there is a risk of family members or pets falling into the pool.
The custom-made design of these covers ensures a perfect fit for pools of nearly every size and shape. These covers not only offer excellent safety features but also enhance the pool’s appearance, making them one of the best-looking options available. Plus, they come with an array of colors, from royal, navy, and baby blue to aqua, tan, and black, to find the perfect match for your backyard oasis.
Unlike other brands, which provide comprehensive and clearly outlined warranty terms, Pool Covers Inc. leaves homeowners uncertain about the length and coverage of their warranty, which can be a concern for those looking for long-term protection and peace of mind.
Pros
Cons
With options for both automatic and manual pool covers, Pool Covers Inc. caters to a wide range of needs and budgets. If you’re looking for a high-tech automatic cover or a cover for larger pools with special requirements, Pool Covers Inc. has something to fit every pool type and usage.
| Dimensions | Thickness | Pool type | Material | Supported Weight | Sun protection |
| Custom fit | Not specified | In-ground | Not specified | At least 485 lbs | Not specified |
At Lacuna Pool Covers, the focus is on providing high-quality, durable pool covers designed to offer exceptional protection, peace of mind, and long-lasting performance. Each cover is crafted in the USA, using top-tier materials engineered to withstand wear and tear while maintaining the integrity of your pool.
Lacuna Pool Covers are made of heavy-duty, woven polyethylene mesh to provide superior strength and resistance to tearing, even under significant strain. When pulled taut and secured in place with the help of the cover’s straps made from durable nylon webbing, it won’t sag under heavy rain or snowfall, dirt, or debris.
Lacuna’s solid covers are designed to block 98% of sunlight, which helps in reducing water evaporation and maintaining chemical balance in the pool. This feature is particularly beneficial for homeowners looking to conserve water and reduce the frequency of pool maintenance.
A load-bearing cover for inground pools is designed to support the weight of an adult walking on it, which is crucial for safety. That’s what the Laguna pool cover is said to do. Plus, the coating material provides a durable, weather-resistant barrier against UV rays to prevent the cover from damage. Laguna Pool Covers typically offer only one size, 16′ x 32′, so you might be a bit limited here.
While Lacuna Pool Covers certainly offer a solid solution for pool protection, Pool Guard goes above and beyond in a few crucial areas. For one, Pool Guard’s custom-fit options ensure an even more precise and secure cover for any pool shape, including freeform, rectangular, and even infinity pools. This level of tailoring makes a huge difference in safety and effectiveness, providing a cover that fits perfectly and provides maximum protection.
While Lacuna Pool Covers does not prominently display warranty information on their website, some sources indicate that their covers may come with a 12-year limited warranty. This warranty typically covers manufacturing defects but may not include coverage for damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, or lack of maintenance.
Pros
Cons
Homeowners seeking a reliable, well-constructed pool cover made from high-quality materials. Lacuna Pool Covers are great for those who want dependable pool protection and durability, especially in areas where sunlight and debris pose a significant challenge.
| Dimensions | Thickness | Pool type | Material | Supported Weight | Sun protection |
| Limited custom design | 3 mil | In-ground | Heavy-duty, woven polyethylene mesh | At least 485 lbs | 98% sun protection |
Wholesale Pool Covers offers a range of in-ground pool covers, available in various sizes to fit a variety of pool dimensions. While the company may not have the high-end features of premium brands, it excels in providing cost-effective options that still meet the essential needs of pool owners.
Wholesale Pool Covers provides an extensive selection of pool covers, including rectangular winter covers, safety covers, solar blankets, and leaf nets. They cater to both above-ground and in-ground pools, offering covers in various sizes to fit standard pool dimensions. These covers might be designed to be the best winter pool cover for inground pools to prevent debris from entering your pool, reduce water evaporation, and provide basic protection during the off-season.
For in-ground pools, Wholesale Pool Covers offers standard rectangular winter covers and safety covers, which can be purchased based on the pool shape, size, and step location. Solar blankets are available to help retain pool heat and reduce heating costs, while leaf nets help minimize the buildup of debris, reducing the time spent on cleaning.
Wholesale Pool Covers provides a range of covers that help protect pools from debris and harsh weather conditions, but they do not specifically focus on water conservation. While their covers, such as rectangular winter covers and safety covers, do help reduce the amount of debris entering the pool, there is no clear information on how effective they are at retaining water or reducing water evaporation.
For homeowners who want to save on water costs and reduce evaporation, Pool Guard provides a more efficient and sustainable solution compared to Wholesale Pool Covers.
The covers are sold in various pool sizes, ranging from smaller options like 12′ x 20′ up to larger sizes like 30′ x 60′. This wide selection makes it easy for homeowners to find a cover that fits their pool, even if it’s a non-standard size. While Wholesale Pool Covers offers a range of budget-friendly options, Pool Guard stands out with its superior quality, custom-fit solutions, and advanced features.
The best pool covers from Pool Guard provide high-performance safety covers that fit perfectly for any pool shape, including freeform and infinity pools, something Wholesale Pool Covers lacks, as they mainly offer generic sizing.
While some of Wholesale Pool Covers’ products come with warranties, the details are not prominently displayed on their website.
Pros
Cons
Homeowners who are looking for budget-friendly, basic pool covers for standard-sized pools. Wholesale Pool Covers are ideal for those who want simple protection against debris and seasonal elements, without the need for advanced features like water conservation or custom-fit solutions.
| Dimensions | Thickness | Pool type | Material | Supported Weight | Sun protection |
| 15+ sizes available | Not specified | In-ground & above-ground | Solid material | At least 485 lbs | Not specified |
Bluewave Pool Covers partnered with Arctic Armor to offer a wide range of covers designed for various pool types, with a focus on affordability and basic protection. These covers are available in different sizes and types, including solar covers, winter covers, and safety covers, catering to both in-ground and above-ground pools. While Bluewave offers budget-friendly options, they may not provide the same level of customization or durability as premium brands like Pool Guard.
Bluewave Pool Covers provides a variety of covers that help protect your pool from debris, harsh weather conditions, and excessive sun exposure. Their solar covers help reduce water evaporation and retain heat, while their winter covers provide basic protection during the off-season. The safety covers offer essential protection from unauthorized pool access, helping to keep children and pets safe. These covers are designed to be easy to use, offering simple installation and maintenance, making them a practical choice for homeowners looking for affordable options.
The pool covers Bluewave offers to help reduce water evaporation by retaining heat and preventing water loss. However, these covers don’t specify the exact percentage of water retention, leaving homeowners uncertain about how much they actually help in conserving water. For those looking for more efficient water conservation, Pool Guard™offers superior water retention by reducing evaporation by up to 98%, making it a more effective solution for water-saving.
Bluewave Pool Covers offers safety covers that are sold based on pool size and shape. However, they may not provide the same level of customization as Pool Guard, which offers tailored covers for freeform and infinity pools, ensuring a perfect fit and maximum safety. Bluewave safety covers meet basic safety standards, but they lack some of the advanced features and custom-fit solutions offered by Pool Guard, which provides a more secure and long-lasting cover for all pool types.
Bluewave Pool Covers does not provide detailed warranty information directly on their website, which can be a concern for homeowners looking for long-term protection and clarity on coverage. Without clear warranty terms, Bluewave Pool Covers leaves homeowners uncertain about the length and coverage of their warranty, making Pool Guard the safer choice for those looking for long-term support. However, Arctic Armor, the brand they sell, has a 2-year full warranty.
Pros
Cons
Bluewave Pool Covers are ideal for homeowners who are looking for affordable and basic protection for their standard-sized pools. These covers are a good option for those on a budget or those who don’t need advanced features like custom-fit solutions, water conservation, or superior durability. Bluewave is best for pool owners seeking a simple, cost-effective cover for seasonal protection and basic safety features.
| Dimensions | Thickness | Pool type | Material | Supported Weight | Sun protection |
| 10+ sizes available | Not specified | In-ground and above-ground | Solid and mesh material | At least 485 lbs | Not specified |
| Brand | Material | Price Range | ASTM Certified | Best For |
| Pool Guard | Polypropylene Mesh / Polyethylene | Premium | Yes | Homeowners seek superior safety, custom-fit covers, and water conservation. Ideal for unique pool shapes and long-term durability. |
| Pool Covers Inc. | Mesh / Solid | Mid-range to High | Yes | Homeowners looking for automatic and manual covers with a focus on energy savings and debris prevention. |
| Lacuna Pool Covers | Mesh / Solid | Mid-range to High | Yes | Homeowners seek basic pool protection with a wide range of color options. Ideal for those with standard or custom pool shapes. |
| Wholesale Pool Covers | Polyethylene / Mesh | Budget–Friendly | Yes | Homeowners on a budget seeking basic protection for standard-sized pools. Great for basic seasonal protection and debris prevention. |
| Bluewave Pool Covers | Polyethylene / Mesh | Affordable to Mid-range | Yes | Homeowners looking for basic, budget-friendly pool covers for standard in-ground or above-ground pools. Ideal for energy savings with solar covers. |
Choosing the right pool safety cover is essential for ensuring the safety of your pool area while also providing protection and reducing maintenance. Here’s a guide to help you understand the key aspects to consider when purchasing a pool safety cover.
A pool safety cover is an essential safety feature for any pool, particularly for homes with children or pets. It acts as a barrier, preventing accidental falls into the pool, thus reducing the risk of drowning and injuries.
Pool safety covers help prevent debris from entering the pool, significantly reducing cleaning time. They also help retain heat and reduce water evaporation, leading to savings on water bills and maintaining the pool’s temperature.
Many local regulations require safety covers to ensure that pools are protected when not in use. Installing a pool cover may also be required by insurance policies to avoid coverage issues and maintain pool safety.
While DIY installation is possible for some types of covers (such as mesh covers), professional installation is recommended for more complex covers like automatic covers, ensuring they are properly fitted and safe to use.
Properly anchoring the pool cover is critical to its performance and safety. Make sure the cover is securely fastened and check for any loose anchors that could allow unauthorized access to the pool.
During the off-season, regularly inspect the cover for wear and tear. Keep it clean and free of debris to prevent damage. Solid covers should be checked for water buildup, while mesh covers should be cleaned periodically to ensure they continue to allow proper drainage.
Yes, most safety pool covers meet ASTM F1346 standards and can support the weight of a child or small pet. However, always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for load limits.
Safety covers can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. Mesh covers last around 5 to 7 years, depending on use and environmental factors.
A pool tarp is a basic cover for debris protection, while a safety cover meets ASTM F1346 standards, offering reinforced safety and preventing unauthorized access.
No, not all pool covers meet ASTM F1346 safety standards. Ensure your cover is ASTM certified to guarantee it provides the necessary safety protection.
Proper maintenance extends the life of your pool safety cover and ensures it functions effectively.
Choosing the best pool covers involves balancing safety, convenience, and cost. Consider your pool type, the level of customization you need, and whether you prefer a manual or automatic system.
Pool Guard™ covers excel in providing superior safety, durability, and water conservation, making them an ideal option for homeowners looking for a long-term and reliable pool cover. Whether you choose a mesh, solid, or automatic cover, make sure it meets ASTM safety standards and provides the necessary protection for.
Pool Guard USA is a US-based pool safety equipment manufacturer specializing in pool fences, pool covers, pool safety nets along with installation services throughout the United States.
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