Solid pool covers are designed to provide a protective barrier over your pool, keeping debris out and maintaining water cleanliness. There are two main types of solid pool covers: vinyl fabric pool covers and hard plastic slat pool covers. Despite their different materials and construction, both are commonly referred to as solid pool covers due to their ability to effectively shield and secure your pool. Read on to discover details of both vinyl fabric and hard plastic slat pool covers to help you make an informed decision.

Fabric Pool Covers: A Flexible Choice

Fabric pool covers are a widely favoured option among pool owners due to their versatility and affordability. These covers are typically crafted from high-quality vinyl or polyethylene material, ensuring durability and a lightweight feel. To better understand fabric pool covers, let’s delve into their advantages and drawbacks.

Advantages of Fabric Pool Covers:

• Cost-effectiveness: Fabric pool covers are generally more affordable than their solid slat counterparts, making them an attractive option for those on a budget. Replacement automatic pool cover fabrics come in many colours and are affordable.
• Ease of installation and removal: These covers can be installed and removed with minimal effort and tools, making them a convenient choice.
• UV protection: Premium fabric covers offer UV protection, shielding your pool’s interior from damage and minimising algae growth.
• Customisability: Fabric covers can be tailored to accommodate the unique shape and size of your pool, ensuring a perfect fit.

Drawbacks of Fabric Pool Covers:

• Reduced security: Fabric pool covers may not provide the same level of security as solid slat covers, which could be a concern for some homeowners.
• Shorter lifespan: Depending on the quality and maintenance, fabric covers may not last as long as solid slat covers.
• Water accumulation issues: Fabric covers can sag and accumulate water, necessitating the use of a pool cover pump to remove excess water and prevent damage.

Review how long automatic pool cover fabrics last before replacing in our article. 

Solid Slat Pool Covers: A Robust Solution

Solid slat pool covers, constructed from interlocking PVC or aluminium slats, provide sturdy protection and a streamlined appearance. These covers are a popular choice for those seeking enhanced security and durability. Let’s examine the benefits and limitations of solid slat pool covers.

Advantages of Solid Slat Pool Covers:

• Enhanced security: Solid slat covers offer superior security, deterring unauthorised access while still safeguarding against accidents
• Longevity: Designed to endure harsh weather conditions, solid slat covers boast a longer lifespan than fabric covers.
• Low-maintenance: Requiring minimal upkeep, solid slat covers do not accumulate water or debris, saving you time and effort.
• Energy efficiency: Like vinyl covers, solid covers provide excellent insulation, reducing heat loss and maintaining a consistent water temperature, which can lower energy costs.

Drawbacks of Solid Slat Pool Covers:

• Increased cost: Solid slat pool covers are typically more expensive than fabric covers, which may deter some pool owners.
• Installation complexity: These covers often necessitate a slightly more complicated installation, adding to the overall cost.
• Limited customisation options: Solid slat covers may not be as easily customisable as fabric covers, especially for pools with irregular shapes.

 

If you need more information on the cost of a replacement fabric cover or an Ocea slat hard cover for your pool, contact us using the handy form below. You can even send us photos of your pool to help us better evaluate your needs and suggest automatic pool cover options!