How to Prevent Algae Growth
Using a Mesh Swimming Pool Cover

Many people want the ultimate safety & protection provided by using a mesh pool cover and also want the light-blocking/algae-dampening properties of a solid vinyl cover. If sunlight is allowed to penetrate through a mesh safety cover, there may be a direct link to the development of algae growth. This can easily happen on older mesh covers that have worn out to the point where the threads of the polypropylene are no longer tightly woven. This "loose" weave can allow excessive light into the pool and can create (in some instances) an algae problem.

When you open your pool for the swimming season and the water is green or heavily stained from the sunlights penetration through the cover, it can take days or even weeks to fully bring the water back to what looks like a pleasant water condition.

So, do you get a solid cover or a mesh? There are pros and cons associated with each type of cover.

Solid Cover PROS:

1. Solid Pool Covers virtually stop all light from entering the pool.

Mesh PROS:

1. Mesh Pool Covers weigh about 1/2 of a comparable size solid cover.
2. Mesh Pool Covers are about 1/2" the price of a solid cover.
3. Mesh Pool Covers are considered a "True" Safety Cover.
4. Mesh Pool Covers last at least TWICE as long as the solid covers.
5. Mesh Pool Covers are not easily damaged by the sun's UV rays.
6. Mesh Pool Covers CAN block the light if you use the little trick shown below.

We received this idea from a customer in Ohio during the 2001 pool season. He (and some others in his area) had been using this system for a number of years. It's a great way to keep your swimming pool, not only totally safe, but also exceptionally clean. Since then, many people have used this method to cover their pools, and the reports we receive are all very encouraging.

To get the best of both worlds, place a solar blanket (commonly called a "bubble" cover) onto the pool first. Just let it float. Then, attach your mesh cover over it, just like you would normally install any Safety Mesh or solid pool cover. The safety mesh cover will block out 95 to 98% of the light (depending on who you believe) but the economical solar cover / bubble cover blocks out pretty much any extra light that may leak through the mesh. The mesh safety cover is suspended above the pool and still keeps leaves and smaller debris from entering the pool, as well as providing safety protection for small children and animals. It's a BIG WIN for pool owners everywhere!