Top 5 Above Ground Pool Covers Review Guide For 2023
Top 5 Above Ground Pool Covers Review Guide For 2023 – Join the millions that have trusted SimplyFunPools.com to help them make smarter buying decisions.
Let our independent expert reviews and data-driven shopping recommendations help you find the Top Above Ground Pool Cover that’s right for you.
If you have a pool, you know how essential a pool cover is to the well-being of your swimming hole in the off months.
Not only that, but it is good to have a cover if you have small children or other animals or people that you wish to keep out when the pool is not in use.
In that case, you will need to be very careful when shopping for the ideal cover for your above ground pool.
Naturally, the market is filled with a superfluity of options, which makes it easy to choose the wrong model.
Fortunately for you, we’ve helped you look into this subject, and we’ve compiled a list of the top five above ground pool covers you can find on the market. Among our great picks, the Robelle 3524-4 Super Winter Pool Cover is the greatest, thanks to its versatility, high durability, and effectiveness.
Meanwhile, we were guided by essential factors like the dimensions, height, materials, and accessories included.
The dimensions and height of the cover determine which pools it’s suitable for while the materials determine its durability, and by extension, longevity.
With that said to find out more keep reading our Top 5 Above Ground Pool Covers Review Guide For 2023.
Editor’s Choice:Robelle 3524-4
Coming first on our list is the premium-quality Robelle 3524-4 Super Winter Pool Cover, which is known for many things, especially its high effectiveness and performance.
It’s no wonder then that it is our Editor’s Pick model. First of all, it comes in different options ranging from 12-feet round covers to 33-feet round covers.
The prices differ, though, so you may want to keep that in mind. Impressively, the pool cover comes with an eight by eight scrim, which should be thick or durable enough for winter protection.
With this kind of scrim and a weight of over two ounces per square, there is no doubt that what you are getting is a heavy-duty pool cover.
That’s not really surprising, though, as Robelle has created a reputation for offering the strongest pool covers.
Perhaps, that is why the manufacturers have backed this model with a ten-year limited warranty, which indicates how the pool cover has been engineered to last you for many years.
Like every other Robelle pool cover, this one is also produced using the strongest polyethylene material. In fact, all the materials used to make the pool cover are designed to ensure your pool gets adequate protection for as long as possible.
When it comes to installation, it’s quite easy. Besides, the pool cover has a four-foot overlap, which makes it a lot easier to secure the cover to your pool.
On top of that, the cover comes with important accessories like grommets, winch, and cables, all to make sure you have no trouble with installation whatsoever.
However, while we appreciate the fact that the package already includes all these essential items, we’d also like to note that the ringing the grommets around some pool models may be difficult as it’s somewhat too tight.
Pool diameter:
- 24 ft.
Skim:
- 8 x 8
Weight:
- 36 oz./yd2
Overlap:
- 4-foot
Warranty:
- 10-year limited
Features:
- comes with winch and cable
Specs:
- Size 24-ft. Pool
- Color 01 – Super
- Material Polyethylene
- Brand Robelle
- Style Cover
About this item:
- Winter pool cover to be used with traditional above ground swimming pools
- Solid material will not let water pass through
- Pool Size: 24 Foot Round – Cover Size: 28 Feet (includes overlap in total)
- Heavy-duty 8 x 8 scrim
- Heavy-duty polyethylene weighs 2.36 oz./yd2
- 4 foot overlap (Includes 4 feet of extra material beyond pool size, making this cover easier to install, included in cover size above)
- Includes winch and cable, which should be used to secure the cover through the grommets
Pros:
- High durability
- Ten-year limited warranty
- Easy to install
- Comes with vital accessories
- Has a four-foot overlap
Cons:
- None at this time
Premium Pick:Pool Mate 571833-4
If you live in a very windy region, then you don’t only need a cover for your pool – you need a premium-quality pool cover, just like the Pool Mate 571833-4 Pool Cover.
It’s completely a revolutionary product, and that should come as no surprise as Pool-Mate is a reputable manufacturer of high-quality pool covers.
This offering from the company is expertly designed to adequately protect your pool against harsh conditions. The first thing we’ll talk about is the four-feet overlap of this cover, which makes it super-easy to secure it to the pool.
The overlap includes grommets, which are four feet away from one another, through which you will insert the included high-quality cable.
Apart from the grommets and cable, another inclusion you will find in the package is a tightening winch, which allows you to seal the pool off securely.
It’s also important to talk about the high-quality manufacturing of the pool cover, which comprises of a high-grade polyethylene material. Thanks to this material, this cover comes off as a durable and tough option for people living in windy locations.
Additionally, the cover comes with heat-sealed seams, which help give a stronger grip on your swimming pool and allow you to run the pool heat pump less frequently.
Meanwhile, the pool cover is UV-resistant from the top while it’s algae-resistant on the bottom. Generally, even though it offers a lot of value, we are still of the opinion that this pool cover is a little overpriced.
Nonetheless, every owner is likely to love it. And to be honest, that is nothing shocking or surprising.
Pool size:
- 18 x 33 ft.
Overlap:
- 4-foot
Warranty:
- 12-year limited
Features:
- heat-sealed seams
Specs:
- Size 18 x 33-ft. Pool
- Color Sandstone
- Material Polyethylene
- Brand Pool Mate
- Style Traditional
About this item:
- Winter pool cover to be used with traditional above ground swimming pools – Solid material will not let water pass through
- Pool Size: 18 x 33 Foot Oval – Cover Size: 22 x 37 Feet (includes overlap in total)
- Extra heavy-duty polyethylene material – All seams are heat sealed for better performance
- 4 foot overlap (Includes 4 feet of extra material beyond pool size, making this cover easier to install, included in cover size above) – Includes winch and cable, which should be used to secure the cover through the grommets
Pros:
- Heat-sealed seams
- UV-resistant from the top
- Algae-resistant
- Includes vital accessories
- High-quality construction
- Impressive four-feet overlap
Cons:
- A little overpriced
Largest Overlap: Intex Deluxe Round Pool Cover
While pool covers are usually regarded as basic items that don’t require sophisticated inclusions, Intex is obviously of a different opinion.
Indeed, the manufacturer has made the Intex Deluxe Round Pool Cover to be as special and as sophisticated as possible.
As we all know, there is a way rain water builds up on covers all through the seasons, which is why Intex has included effective drain holes to allow water to drip while reducing the build-up.
Furthermore, the pool cover comes with a UV protective coating, which should prevent your pool cover from any damage that may be caused by the sun.
As if that wasn’t enough, the manufacturers have included rope ties as well, which you can use to secure your pool cover. In terms of construction quality, you can always count on Intex, of course.
This cover is produced using heavy-duty polyethylene materials, which is extremely durable and subsequently long-lasting.
The pool cover is also easy to install, so you can always use it to protect your pool when the leaves start falling without needing the help of anyone.
Not only can you put it on by yourself, but you can also easily take it off independently. Overall, this is a great pool cover that is designed to fit 18-diameter swimming pools without any issue.
It’s also worth adding that the cover is inexpensive, so it may be a good alternative if you can’t afford more expensive ones. The only thing we could improve is adding better reinforcement to prevent tears.
Pool diameter:
- 18 ft.
Overlap:
- 8-inch
Warranty:
- not specified
Features: drain holes; rope tie
Specs:
- Size 18-foot
- Color Gray
- Material Polyethylene
- Brand Intex
- Model Name N/AA
About this item:
- Deluxe round pool cover
- UV resistant
- Prevent water accumulation and is easily secured with the included rope ties
- Fits 18′ diameter pools
- Drain holes to prevent water accumulation
Pros:
- Effective drain holes
- UV protective coating
- Heavy-duty polyethylene materials
- Easy to install
- Affordable price
- Includes rope ties
Cons:
- Needs better reinforcement
Best Weather-Resistant Pool Cover:Blue Wave Silver
While the Blue Wave Silver Pool Cover appears very basic on the eyes, it delivers a great performance that is certain to be appreciated by above ground pool owners. First of all, the cover has a 24-feet diameter, along with an overlap of four feet.
The overlap makes sure that there’s no ripping or stretching as it accounts for the extra space. It’s also worth noting that the package also includes a winch tightener and a cable, all designed to ensure the easy installation of the pool cover.
To be honest, you don’t have to be worried about the protection of your swimming pool during winter and other seasons, with this pool cover. It’s coated expertly and woven heavily with polyethylene to make sure it’s more resistant to sleet, winter, and snow.
Besides, the pool cover is resistant to the sun’s destructive effects, which is no small thanks to the UV protective coating. Meanwhile, the cover has a black base, which hinders the development of algae, and there is a heat-sealed feature that helps to keep your swimming pool clean at all times.
Despite being mid-priced, this product has all the durability and strength to guarantee numerous years of sufficient protection during the winter season.
The included 12-year warranty should be an indication of the manufacturer’s high expectations. We’d like to warn you, though: the included winch feels and looks extremely cheap.
Pool diameter:
- 24 ft.
Overlap:
- 4-foot
Warranty:
- 12-year limited
Features:
- comes with winch and cable
Specs:
- Style: Cover
- Size 24-FEET
- Color Forest Green
- Material Polyethylene
- Brand Blue Wave
- Style Cover
About this item:
- Pool size: 24 feet
- Cover size: 28 feet
- Protects against sun, snow, ice and wind
- 4 foot overlap to ensure there is no stretching or ripping
- Heavy duty cable and winch tightener included
Pros:
- Sufficient overlap
- Easy installation
- Includes a winch tightener and a cable
- UV protective coating
- Heat-sealed seams
- 12-year limited warranty
Cons:
- The winch looks cheap
Best Value:Intex Solar Cover for 18ft X 9ft Rectangular Frame Pools
While you will be hard-pressed to rate the Intex Solar Cover above any pool cover on our list, one thing you can’t deny is that it provides a lot of value for the price.
It’s one of the most affordable pool covers you will find on the market, but it’s impressive that it could even make a list such as this one.
First of all, we must note that this pool cover is a unique cover that is made for unique, rectangular pools. It also makes sure that your pool stays fun to swim in always as it comes with a 160-micron construction.
More on the construction, this pool cover is incredibly lightweight, weighing less than 5.5 pounds. Thanks to that, the cover is easy to install as you don’t need to exert a lot of energy.
When you are not using the cover in your pool, you need to store it properly, which is why the manufacturers have included a carrying bag for safe storage. We assume you’ve already figured out why we think this pool cover offers a lot of value for its price, right?
Priced affordably, easy to roll over your pool, and easy to keep in a convenient carrying bag, this pool cover is such a bargain.
However, this cover doesn’t offer a lot in terms of durability, which shouldn’t be surprising. The material can easily tear, and despite coming with a 12-year warranty, there’s no way this cover is lasting for half of that period. Apart from that, we must also note that the sizing is a little off, so you may want to calculate for that.
Pool size:
- 7 x 8.3 ft.
Overlap:
- none
Warranty:
- 12-year limited
Features:
- 160-micron material
- comes with a carrying bag
Specs:
- Size 18 ft x 9 ft
- Color Blue
- Material Plastic
- Brand Intex Recreation
- Style Solar Cover
About this item:
- Helps keep pool water warmer
- Comes with carrying bag
- Durable 160 micron material
- Note: This pool cover is made to FIT a 17’8″ x 8’4″ Feet rectangular pool
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Incredibly lightweight
- Includes a carrying bag
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Cheap material
- Sizing is a little off
Top 5 Above Ground Pool Covers Buying Guide For 2023
Things to Consider:
While it’s essential to read reviews before buying any product, it’s even more important to read a comprehensive guide such as the one we have compiled below. We have put this guide together to help you make a more informed decision.
Why you need an above ground pool cover:
Obviously, knowing the benefits a product will offer you provides the motivation you need to make the purchase.
Pool covers provide lots of benefits, including reduced management costs and improved swimming experience. The following are some of the primary advantages of pool covers.
To Keep Your Pool Clean – Apart from the obvious reasons, the risk of getting an infection is one big reason why you must keep your swimming pool clean.
Primarily, pool covers are used to ensure the pool stays clean, as covering your pool regularly will prevent debris from getting into it. For example, pools that are close to trees will especially benefit from covers as they prevent leaves from getting into them.
No matter how much the cover costs, it will provide long-term benefits. You don’t have to spend much money and time to clean your pool. In fact, your swimming pool filter will benefit from a cover as well.
Reduce Evaporation – Swimming pool covers are usually produced using non-toxic materials like PVC and polyethylene.
If your swimming pool is covered properly, they can help cut down evaporation up to 95 percent. In the long run, a pool cover saves you money and time.
Cut Down Heating Bills – With the idea cover, you can avoid splashing out on a pool heater and reduce the heating bills of your pool.
Pool covers can help trap heat in your pool, thereby heating the water therein. Besides, since it reduces evaporation as well, heat is conserved further in your pool.
Improve Your Swimming Experience – Since a pool cover conserves heat, it subsequently improves your general swimming experience.
This means the temperature of the pool won’t become too cold. Subsequently, your swimming session will be extended significantly.
Prevent Accidents – Everyone knows how curious and playful children can be sometimes.
So, it makes a lot of sense that pool covers have been designed to be strong enough to withstand the weight of pets and children, which prevents them from probably drowning. When it comes to safety, you may also want to consider buying a pool fence as well.
Features to consider when choosing an above ground pool cover:
As with any other product you want to buy, there are some features you must also consider before buying a pool cover. The following are some of the most important ones.
What pool size it’s designed for:
After you have chosen the type of cover you need, buying the right size will make sure your pool is protected properly.
The best covers have to be sufficiently large to cover the entire swimming pool without it being excessively tight. This is why most good covers feature an overlap on both sides, which makes installation a lot easier.
Whether your pool is rectangular or round, ensure you get a pool cover that matches its size closely.
Manufacturers usually list both the actual cover size and the pool size, so we advise you to read the specifications for the product you want carefully. You cannot make the cover larger, but some covers let you trim the ends so that they would fit better.
If it has an overlap:
An overlap usually means the excess space after the actual size of the pool. For example, if your pool measures 28 feet and your cover measures 32 feet, that gives you an overlap of four feet.
You will need this additional space as the winter cover will definitely dip down in the pool because of the lowered level of water. With an overlap measuring 8 feet, the model with the largest overlap on our list is the Intex Deluxe Round Pool Cover.
Materials used:
You also need to consider the material with which the cover is made. Some pool covers are produced using vinyl materials or polyurethane, such as the Blue Wave Silver Pool Cover and the Robelle 3524-4 Super Winter Pool Cover.
Such products are ideal for outdoor use as they can withstand harsh conditions. There are also some covers made from canvas compounds and polyester materials
Warranty:
Another important consideration you must make is the warranty and its terms. To be honest, you actually shouldn’t need any prep talk before you would know that you must consider the warranty before making any purchase.
While pool covers are usually not as expensive as electronics, they need to be backed up by their manufacturers as well. Pool covers are usually designed to last for a significant period of time.
Other features:
You also need to consider other less important features, such as if the cover is available in multiple colors and if it comes with accessories like ropes, installation hardware, and a carrying bag.
Furthermore, you might want to check if your favorite model can be used with the pool cover reel to make things a lot simpler for you. While these features usually don’t affect the general performance of the cover, they are convenient features that will make the daily usage of the cover easier.
FAQ:
Q: Are they all suitable for winter season?
A: Even though pool covers can also be used in other seasons, these products are primarily designed for winter seasons as this is the period when most people leave their pools unused and uncared for. Of course, all our picks are suitable for the winter season.
Q: Will a cover help with water evaporation?
A: If you are wondering if pool covers help reduce water evaporation, the answer is in the affirmative. In fact, they help reduce water evaporation by 95 percent, which is significant.
Q: Does it provoke bacteria and mold growth?
A: Maintain your pool cover is almost as important as maintaining your pool itself. Regardless of the amount of attention you give your pool, the pool cover may start breeding mold and bacteria if it’s not cleaned, maintained, and stored properly. If that happens, your pool’s quality will be affected.
Quick Summary:
Editor’s Choice: Robelle 3524-4
“A pool cover made from incredibly strong polyethylene material that will serve you for years; fits round 24-foot pools and available in other sizes.”
Premium Pick: Pool Mate 571833-4
“A reliable cover for oval-shaped pools of 18 by 33 feet in dimensions; features heat-sealed seams and 4-foot overlap.”
Largest Overlap: Intex Deluxe Round Pool Cover
“A great model from a manufacturer that you can trust; has an 8-foot overlap for better security.”
Best Weather-Resistant: Blue Wave Silver
“Made from an impressively sturdy material, no wonder this model is covered with a 12-year warranty for your peace of mind.”
Best Value: Intex Solar Cover for 18ft X 9ft Rectangular Frame Pools
“A pool cover designed specifically for 18×8 feet pools; lightweight and comes with a carrying bag for ease of transportation.”
Conclusion:
When winter comes, most people tend to almost totally abandon their swimming pools, which calls for the use of high-quality pool covers like the Robelle 3524-4 Super Winter Pool Cover.
Apart from being large enough to cover most above ground pools, this model has also been designed to withstand all sorts of harsh conditions.
On top of that, it comes with vital installation accessories, which make its usage easier. This is the best above ground pool cover on our list, and nobody can argue.
Then, the Pool Mate 571833-4 Pool Cover and the Intex Deluxe Round Pool Cover take the second and third spots, respectively. Both models aren’t the same, but each is unique in a good way.
While the heat-sealed seams of the Pool-Mate model give it a stronger grip on your pool, the Intex model has effective drain holes that prevent water build-up. Thanks for taking the time to read our Top 5 Above Ground Pool Covers Review Guide For 2023.
