Inground Pool Cover FAQ

Should I use a mesh or solid pool cover?

This is probably the most common question we get. The primary issue in most cases is safety. If there are small children or animals involved, always use an ASTM compliant safety mesh cover.

A safety mesh cover will not allow water to aggregate on top of the cover, and therefore virtually excludes the possibility of accidental drowning. A safety mesh cover will not stop very fine dirt particles from filtering through during rain or snow, so you may do a little extra clean-up in spring. That is a very small tradeoff when it comes to a child's safety. Mesh covers are also less expensive than a solid cover.

A solid cover can stop nearly all particles from entering the pool. However, even with a pump or mesh drain panel, solid covers can allow significant water collection on top of the cover and can become slippery from normal particle build-up and moisture. This is one reason we strongly recommend mesh for households where unsupervised child access is possible. A solid cover can be used when there is no possibility of a child getting near the pool in an unsupervised situation.

Mesh vs. Solid, to prevent algae growth (click HERE for info.)

Can I use a "stock" cover on my irregular shape or sized pool?

Example: You have a 16 x 32 oval or kidney shaped pool with plenty of deck space and want to use a stock rectangle cover in that size. Sorry, but the answer is no. Although the cover may physically fit over the pool, there would be no warranty and it would likely fail or become unsafe in short order.

Our covers are designed with a heavy-duty wear strip under the webbing to keep support webbing from direct contact with the pool edge, where abrasion normally causes failure over time. All pool covers should have this wear strip built into the proper location for the specific pool shape. If the wrong shape cover is used, the pool outline is quickly worn into the underside at unprotected points.

Why should I select an Ameri-Brand cover over another brand?

Simply put, our cover is manufactured to the highest standards possible. We take covers to a much higher level of safety and product quality. Our double webbing speaks for itself, and our A-B verifier measuring program and preset measuring diagrams help guarantee a precise fit, even on complex pool designs.

Most major cover manufacturers use similar components from the same suppliers, so differences often come down to construction quality and price. Some brands spend heavily on flashy advertising, and those costs are passed on to the customer. We keep advertising costs as low as possible and focus on value and durability.

Some covers are sourced from new overseas suppliers. Because warranty and fit issues are normally handled by the manufacturer, resolving problems can be difficult. For your protection, our covers are made in the US in the Chicago area and shipped nationwide. Many municipalities and organizations use our covers because they are practically commercial grade.

Can I attach the cover to my lawn or flower bed?

Yes. Lawn stakes can be used, and they also work with pavers. See photos below for examples:

They are installed with a hammer. A wood block is used while hammering to protect the brass anchor and tube.

When is the best time to order?

Pool cover demand usually builds in early summer. Customers who order first generally receive covers faster, while later orders are affected by last-minute demand and changing production schedules. The best time to order is as soon as you know you will need a cover. You can see current production timing HERE.

Can I cover the pool and the spa with the same cover?

In some cases, yes. It depends on spa placement relative to the pool. Send a diagram of your pool to 530-589-2510 and we will give you our best recommendation.

Does your cover act as a thermal cover if it covers the spa also?

It helps retain heat somewhat. A solar "bubble" cover used in conjunction with our cover works well in the spa area.