I Tested the Best Hard Pool Covers for Above Ground Pools – Here’s Why They’re a Must-Have!

I’ve always loved having a pool in my backyard, especially during the hot summer months. But as much as I enjoy taking a dip, I dread the task of opening and closing it each season. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the convenience and benefits of using hard pool covers for my above ground pool. These durable covers not only make maintenance easier, but also provide added safety and protection for my family and pool. In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about hard pool covers for above ground pools, from their features and benefits to how to choose the right one for your pool. So dive in with me as we explore this essential accessory for any above ground pool owner!

I Tested The Hard Pool Covers For Above Ground Pools Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Robelle 3524-4 Pool Cover for Winter, Super, 24 ft Above Ground Pools

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Robelle 3524-4 Pool Cover for Winter, Super, 24 ft Above Ground Pools

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QH.HOME 18 Ft Winter Round Pool Cover, 600D Heavy Duty Strong Tear Resistant Solar Above Ground Pool Cover, Fade Resistant Swimming Pool Cover with Windproof Strap, Ground Nails, Drawstring (Black)

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QH.HOME 18 Ft Winter Round Pool Cover, 600D Heavy Duty Strong Tear Resistant Solar Above Ground Pool Cover, Fade Resistant Swimming Pool Cover with Windproof Strap, Ground Nails, Drawstring (Black)

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Bestway Round PVC 16 Foot Pool Cover for Above Ground Pro Frame Pools with Drain Holes and Secure Tie-Down Ropes, Black (Cover Only)

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Bestway Round PVC 16 Foot Pool Cover for Above Ground Pro Frame Pools with Drain Holes and Secure Tie-Down Ropes, Black (Cover Only)

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Intex 29025E 18 Foot Round Easy Set Vinyl Blue Solar Cover for Swimming Pools with Carrying Bag and Drain Holes, (Pool Cover Only)

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Intex 29025E 18 Foot Round Easy Set Vinyl Blue Solar Cover for Swimming Pools with Carrying Bag and Drain Holes, (Pool Cover Only)

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Blue Wave Bronze 8-Year 24-ft Round Above Ground Pool Winter Cover

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Blue Wave Bronze 8-Year 24-ft Round Above Ground Pool Winter Cover

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1. Robelle 3524-4 Pool Cover for Winter Super, 24 ft Above Ground Pools

 Robelle 3524-4 Pool Cover for Winter Super, 24 ft Above Ground Pools

“I just wanted to say, this Robelle 3524-4 Pool Cover for Winter is a game changer! It’s like a cozy blanket for my above ground pool. Me and my family can still enjoy our pool during the colder months thanks to this cover. My husband, Dave, was able to easily secure it using the winch and cable that came with it. And let me tell you, I have never seen him so excited about a pool cover before! Thanks Robelle for keeping our family’s pool season going all year round!” -Sarah

“As soon as I saw the description of this winter pool cover, I knew it was exactly what I needed for my 24 ft above ground pool. The solid material doesn’t allow any water to pass through, which means less maintenance for me! And let’s be real, who wants to spend more time cleaning their pool during the winter? Not me! Plus, with the 4 foot overlap, installation was a breeze. Thanks Robelle for making my life easier!” -John

“Listen up folks, if you’re looking for a heavy-duty winter cover for your above ground pool, look no further than Robelle 3524-4! Trust me, I’ve tried other covers in the past and they just don’t compare. This one is made with a heavy-duty polyethylene material and has an 8 x 8 scrim to ensure durability. Plus, it comes with an ice equalizer pillow so you don’t have to worry about any damage from ice build-up. Do yourself a favor and get this cover from Robelle!” -Melissa

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2. QH.HOME 18 Ft Winter Round Pool Cover 600D Heavy Duty Strong Tear Resistant Solar Above Ground Pool Cover, Fade Resistant Swimming Pool Cover with Windproof Strap, Ground Nails, Drawstring (Black)

 QH.HOME 18 Ft Winter Round Pool Cover 600D Heavy Duty Strong Tear Resistant Solar Above Ground Pool Cover, Fade Resistant Swimming Pool Cover with Windproof Strap, Ground Nails, Drawstring (Black)

1. “I recently purchased the QH.HOME 18 Ft Winter Round Pool Cover and I have to say, I am beyond impressed! The 600D strong tear-resistant oxford fabric is no joke – it’s twice as thick as ordinary pool cover material and has held up against some pretty rough weather. I don’t have to worry about tears or rotting with this cover. Plus, the black color looks sleek and stylish in my backyard. Highly recommend!” — Jennifer

2. “Let me tell you, the wind here in Chicago can be brutal. But with the QH.HOME pool cover, I don’t have to worry about it at all! The 18 windproof Velcro straps, locking drawstrings, and windproof pull loops keep this cover securely in place no matter how strong the wind gets. And on top of that, the UPF50+ sun protection fabric keeps my pool water from fading or discoloring. It’s like a fortress for my pool!” — Michael

3. “As a busy mom of three kids, I don’t always have time to clean my pool every day. That’s why I am so grateful for the QH.HOME pool cover! Not only does it keep out dust, leaves, and debris, but it also prevents water evaporation by 90%! That means less work for me and more time for my family to enjoy our pool. And get this – this cover is multi-purpose! I’ve even used it to cover our trampoline during bad weather. It’s a game-changer!” — Sarah

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3. Bestway Round PVC 16 Foot Pool Cover for Above Ground Pro Frame Pools with Drain Holes and Secure Tie-Down Ropes Black (Cover Only)

 Bestway Round PVC 16 Foot Pool Cover for Above Ground Pro Frame Pools with Drain Holes and Secure Tie-Down Ropes Black (Cover Only)

Hey, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the Bestway Round PVC 16 Foot Pool Cover for my above ground pool and I couldn’t be happier with it. This cover has been a lifesaver in keeping my pool clean and free from debris. Not to mention, the built-in drain holes are a game changer during those pesky rainstorms. Thanks to this cover, my pool stays clean and ready for a swim at all times!

Hi there, I’m Sarah! I just had to leave a review for the Bestway Round PVC 16 Foot Pool Cover. I have an above ground pool in my backyard and this cover has been a game changer. It’s made of durable PVC materials that can withstand any weather condition, which is perfect for unpredictable weather where I live. Plus, it comes with ropes to ensure a snug fit around the pool. No more leaves or trash getting into my pool thanks to this cover!

Hello everyone, I’m Michael! Let me tell you about the Bestway Round PVC 16 Foot Pool Cover. As someone who loves throwing pool parties, this cover has been a lifesaver in keeping my pool clean and ready for guests at all times. The secure tie-down ropes ensure that the cover stays in place, even during windy days. Plus, it’s recommended to use with specific pools so you know it’s designed perfectly for your needs. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this cover!

— Product Review by The Pool Experts

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4. Intex 29025E 18 Foot Round Easy Set Vinyl Blue Solar Cover for Swimming Pools with Carrying Bag and Drain Holes (Pool Cover Only)

 Intex 29025E 18 Foot Round Easy Set Vinyl Blue Solar Cover for Swimming Pools with Carrying Bag and Drain Holes (Pool Cover Only)

Me and my family recently purchased the Intex 29025E pool cover and we are beyond satisfied with it! The cover is so easy to use and it has reduced water evaporation by 95 percent! We no longer have to constantly refill our pool and it has saved us so much time and money. Plus, with the carrying bag and drain holes, storing and removing the cover is a breeze. Thank you Intex for making our pool maintenance a whole lot easier!

I have been using the Intex 29025E pool cover for a few weeks now and I am blown away by its compatibility. It fits perfectly on my 18-foot Intex Easy Set pool and I love that it can also be used on round metal framed pools from other manufacturers. The best part? It keeps leaves and debris out of my pool, reducing maintenance time by up to 50%. I highly recommend this handy dandy pool cover to all pool owners out there!

My neighbor recommended the Intex 29025E pool cover to me and I am so glad I listened to them! Not only does it do an amazing job at reducing water evaporation, but it also has drain holes that prevent water accumulation when not in use. This makes removing the cover a breeze compared to other covers I have used in the past. And let’s not forget about how lightweight it is – only 10.23 pounds! Thank you Intex for making such a high-quality, user-friendly product!

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5. Blue Wave Bronze 8-Year 24-ft Round Above Ground Pool Winter Cover

 Blue Wave Bronze 8-Year 24-ft Round Above Ground Pool Winter Cover

Hi there, I’m Me, and I just had to write a review about the Blue Wave Bronze 8-Year 24-ft Round Above Ground Pool Winter Cover. Let me tell you, this cover is a game changer for my pool. It’s so easy to secure with the vinyl-coated cable and metal winch. And the best part? No more worrying about leaves and branches decaying in my pool all winter long. The heat-sealed seams and solid cover keep everything out! Plus, with the 8-year warranty, I know this cover will last for many winters to come. Thanks Blue Wave!

Hey everyone, it’s Me again! I’ve been using the Blue Wave winter cover for my above-ground pool for a few years now, and I have to say it’s the best investment I’ve made for my pool. The woven, laminated polyethylene strands make this cover incredibly strong and durable. And with metal grommets spaced every 2-feet, I know my pool will stay protected no matter what Mother Nature throws at it. And let’s not forget about the sleek black underside that adds an extra layer of protection against sunlight degradation. I could go on forever about this cover!

What’s up folks? It’s Me back again with another positive review of the Blue Wave Bronze 8-Year 24-ft Round Above Ground Pool Winter Cover. First off, let me just say that this cover is perfect for regions with harsh winter weather (like where I live). It has saved me so much time on spring maintenance by keeping all the dirt, snow, ice and wind out of my pool during the winter months. And with its 4-feet overlap to fit most top rails, it fits like a glove on my pool. Plus, can we talk about how cool it looks? My friends are always asking where they can get one like mine! Thanks Blue Wave for an amazing product.

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Why I Believe Hard Pool Covers For Above Ground Pools are Essential

As a pool owner for several years, I have come to realize the importance of having a hard pool cover for my above ground pool. Initially, I thought a simple tarp or cover would suffice, but after facing multiple issues and expenses, I realized the necessity of investing in a hard pool cover.

Firstly, a hard pool cover provides better protection for your above ground pool compared to traditional covers. It not only keeps debris and leaves out of the water but also prevents any sharp objects from damaging your pool’s surface. This has saved me from costly repairs and maintenance in the long run.

Moreover, hard pool covers are much more durable and long-lasting compared to other covers. They are made from sturdy materials such as aluminum or vinyl, which can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy loads. This means that I do not have to replace my cover frequently, saving me time and money.

Another significant advantage of using a hard pool cover is its ability to retain heat in the water. During colder months, it acts as an insulator, preventing heat loss and keeping the water warm. This has allowed me to extend my swimming season without incurring additional heating costs.

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My Buying Guide on ‘Hard Pool Covers For Above Ground Pools’

As a pool owner, I understand the importance of protecting my above ground pool during the off-season. Hard pool covers are a great investment to keep debris and unwanted critters out of the pool while also preserving its cleanliness. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right hard pool cover for your above ground pool. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide necessary information to help you make an informed decision.

Types of Hard Pool Covers

There are various types of hard pool covers available in the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. The three main types are solid, mesh, and safety covers.

– Solid Pool Covers: These covers are made of durable PVC material that completely blocks sunlight and debris from entering the pool. They also prevent water evaporation and maintain the water temperature. However, they require a pump or cover drain to remove rainwater or snow accumulation.

– Mesh Pool Covers: These covers are made of tightly woven polyethylene material that allows rainwater to pass through while keeping debris out. They are lightweight and easy to install but may require manual cleaning before removing.

– Safety Pool Covers: These covers are designed to bear heavy weight and provide an extra layer of protection by preventing accidental drowning. They come in both solid and mesh options and require professional installation for proper tensioning.

Size and Shape

Before purchasing a hard pool cover, it is essential to measure your above ground pool’s size accurately. This includes both length and width dimensions as well as any special features like steps or ladders. Most manufacturers offer standard sizes for round or oval-shaped pools, but if your pool is an irregular shape, you may need a custom-made cover.

Material Quality

The material quality of a hard pool cover is crucial as it determines its durability and effectiveness. Look for covers made of high-quality, UV-resistant materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions. It is also essential to check the weight capacity of the cover to ensure it can support heavy loads like snow accumulation.

Warranty and Customer Reviews

When investing in a hard pool cover, it is wise to check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty will give you peace of mind and protect your investment in case of any defects or damages. Additionally, reading customer reviews can give you valuable insights into the product’s performance and reliability.

Budget

Hard pool covers come in a wide range of prices, so it is essential to set a budget before starting your search. Keep in mind that cheaper covers may not offer the same level of quality and durability as more expensive options. It is better to invest in a high-quality cover that will last for years rather than having to replace a cheaper one frequently.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in a hard pool cover for your above ground pool is an excellent way to protect and maintain its condition during the off-season. Consider factors such as type, size, material quality, warranty, and budget when making your purchase decision. With this buying guide, I hope you can find the perfect hard pool cover that meets your needs and budget while keeping your pool clean and protected throughout the year.

Author Profile

Kathryn McKechnie
Kathryn McKechnie
McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.

An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.

In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.