Leaving your pool uncovered during the off-season invites a host of problems, from uninvited debris to harsh chemical interactions. The solution seems simple, but the question remains: what can I put under my pool cover to ensure optimal protection? The right underlayment is not just an extra layer; it is a critical component that extends the life of your cover, protects the pool surface, and keeps your water significantly cleaner.
Why You Need A Barrier Beneath The Cover
Understanding the purpose of a barrier layer helps clarify which materials are suitable. A pool cover functions primarily to block sunlight and keep out large debris. Without a protective layer underneath, the cover is subjected to constant abrasion from any rough imperfections on the pool deck. Furthermore, wind can easily lift a loose cover, depositing dirt and leaves into the water. The material placed beneath serves to anchor the cover slightly, providing friction and stability against these environmental forces.
Standard Foam Track Underlays
For rigid hardside pool covers, the installation of a specific track system is mandatory for safety and functionality. These tracks are usually mounted directly onto the coping or a concrete apron, and the cover snaps securely into place. If your cover rolls up on one side, the gap created by the rolling mechanism requires a specific filler to prevent debris from getting trapped. In these specific scenarios, manufacturers often recommend installing a foam track filler, which compresses to fill the void and maintains a smooth surface that prevents the cover from snagging.
Reinforced Felt Blankets
Choosing The Right Density
For floating covers used on inground pools, a high-quality felt blanket is a popular choice for the layer beneath. It is essential to look for heavy-duty, needle-punched felt rather than thin, synthetic alternatives. This material acts as a sacrificial layer, taking the brunt of wear and tear so the vinyl cover above remains intact. The thickness of the felt directly correlates to its durability; investing in a heavier millweight felt will result in less shifting of the cover and reduced waterline staining.
Solid Vinyl Or Tarp Laydowns
Homeowners looking for a cost-effective solution sometimes turn to heavy-duty black vinyl pieces or contractor tarps. While these materials are waterproof, they require careful handling to avoid issues. If the material is too slick, the cover may slide out of alignment; if it is too textured, it might create wrinkles in the cover above. When using this method, ensure the material is specifically rated for ground use and is large enough to extend a few inches beyond the pool wall to prevent ground moisture from wicking up into the cover’s edges.
Water Tubes And Wedge Fillers
Safety and stability are paramount when securing a cover. Simply placing a cover on the water and hoping it stays put is a recipe for disaster, especially during storms. To weigh the cover down and maintain tension, water tubes are the industry standard. These long, flexible tubes are filled with the pool water itself and run around the perimeter of the cover. They hold the cover firmly against the water’s surface, preventing it from blowing away and ensuring that rainwater slides off rather than pooling on top.
Mesh Covers: The Exception To The Rule
When discussing what can go under a pool cover, it is vital to distinguish between cover types. Mesh safety covers are designed to allow water to pass through directly to the pool. Therefore, they do not require a solid underlayment. However, they do require a specific track system and anchors. Installing a mesh cover without the proper track and without securing the perimeter tightly will result in the mesh sagging like a hammock. The "under layer" for a mesh cover is essentially the structural track that keeps it taut and functional.
Best Practices For Installation
Even the best material will fail if installed incorrectly. Before placing any covering material, the pool area must be meticulously cleaned. Any sharp rocks or sticks hidden in the dirt can puncture a vinyl cover or create indentations in a hard cover. When rolling out a solid underlayment, ensure there are no wrinkles or folds where the cover will sit. Lastly, always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding overlap; generally, the edges of the underlayment should meet in the center of the pool wall to avoid being crushed by the weight of the cover.
