4 Steps to Close a Pool With a Mesh Safety Cover

Lower the water to about 18 inches below the coping or just above the returns. Mesh covers let rain and snowmelt through, so you don’t need to drain below the skimmer like with a solid cover. This prevents the cover from floating up when groundwater rises.

Winterize your plumbing and add the right chemicals before installing the cover. Center it over the pool, attach springs or straps starting at the corners, and pull it drum-tight. If it sags, water will pool on top instead of draining.

Secure the edges with straps and springs, not water bags. Double-check every spring is hooked and straps are snug. The cover should be tight enough that a squirrel couldn’t dent it.

A loose cover is a pain to clean in spring. Getting it tight now saves you hours of work later.