Choosing the Right Pool Cover Size
Pool cover sizes are measured by length and width for rectangular pools or diameter for round pools. Cover dimensions must exceed pool dimensions to provide adequate overlap for anchoring and protection. Winter safety covers typically add four feet to pool length and width, so a 16 by 32 foot pool requires a 20 by 36 foot winter cover. Solar blankets are cut to exact pool dimensions, floating directly on the water surface. Choosing the right cover size depends on pool shape, cover type, and intended use. An undersized cover fails to protect the pool or anchor securely, while an excessively oversized cover wastes material and complicates installation.
Cover dimensions refer to the overall size of the cover fabric or material. For winter covers, this includes the overlap that extends beyond the pool edge onto the deck or coping. Solar covers are sized to match the interior pool dimensions at the waterline. Above ground pool covers account for the top rail diameter when sized. Always measure your pool carefully before ordering covers, as improper sizing leads to inadequate protection, difficult installation, or expensive returns and replacements.
Understanding Pool Cover Sizing Methods
Pool covers use different sizing approaches based on cover type and installation method. Winter safety covers are sized larger than the pool to provide overlap for spring anchor placement. The standard overlap is two feet on all sides, adding four feet to both length and width. A 20 by 40 foot pool needs a 24 by 44 foot winter cover. This overlap allows anchors to be installed in the deck surrounding the pool, pulling the cover taut and preventing sagging or debris accumulation.
Solar blankets and bubble covers are sized to exact pool dimensions, floating on the water surface without overlap. These covers are trimmed to fit the pool shape precisely, maximizing heat retention and minimizing evaporation. Automatic pool covers are custom measured and manufactured to fit each pool exactly, operating on tracks installed on the pool deck. Leaf nets overlay winter covers and use similar sizing with two to three foot overlap for securing to existing anchor points or weighted edges.
Rectangular Pool Cover Sizes
Rectangular inground pools are the most common pool shape, with standard sizes ranging from 12 by 24 feet for small pools to 20 by 40 feet or larger for family pools. Winter safety covers for rectangular pools add four feet to each dimension, so a 16 by 32 foot pool uses a 20 by 36 foot cover. This sizing allows two foot overlap on all sides for anchor strap placement. Anchors are installed every four to five feet around the perimeter, totaling 16 to 24 anchors for most pools.
Solar blankets for rectangular pools match exact dimensions. A 16 by 32 foot pool uses a 16 by 32 foot solar cover. Many solar covers come in standard sizes slightly oversized, allowing trimming to fit custom pool shapes. Common solar cover sizes include 12 by 24, 16 by 32, 18 by 36, and 20 by 40 feet. Covers can be trimmed with scissors to fit steps, benches, or irregular edges. Proper trimming ensures the cover floats flat without bunching or gaps that reduce efficiency.
Round Pool Cover Sizes
Round above ground pools are measured by diameter, with common sizes of 15, 18, 21, 24, and 27 feet. Winter covers for round pools add approximately three feet to the diameter for overlap and cable tensioning. An 18 foot diameter pool uses a 21 foot diameter winter cover. Round pool winter covers include a cable and winch system that threads through the cover perimeter, cinching the cover tight around the pool wall. This system eliminates the need for deck anchors, as the cover secures to the pool structure itself.
Solar covers for round pools match the pool diameter or are slightly larger for trimming. Standard round solar cover sizes include 15, 18, 21, and 24 foot diameters. The cover floats on the water surface and is cut to fit around ladders and skimmers. Round pools often use solar cover reels to simplify deployment and removal, as manually handling large round covers is cumbersome. The reel mounts to the pool deck or top rail, winding the cover onto a tube for storage when the pool is in use.
Oval Pool Cover Sizes
Oval above ground pools combine the length of rectangular pools with rounded ends. Common sizes include 12 by 24, 15 by 30, and 18 by 33 feet. Winter covers for oval pools add three feet to both dimensions, so a 15 by 30 foot oval pool uses an 18 by 33 foot cover. Oval winter covers include cable and winch systems like round pool covers, securing around the pool perimeter without deck anchors. The cover must be oriented correctly to match the pool shape, with longer and shorter dimensions aligned properly.
Solar covers for oval pools are sized to pool dimensions or slightly larger. Oval solar covers are less common than round or rectangular covers, so custom trimming from rectangular covers is sometimes necessary. Measure the maximum length and width of the oval pool and purchase a rectangular solar cover large enough to span these dimensions, then trim to the oval shape. Some manufacturers offer precut oval solar covers in standard sizes, simplifying installation and ensuring proper fit.
Winter Safety Cover Types and Sizing
Winter safety covers come in solid and mesh varieties, both sized with overlap for anchoring. Solid covers block all sunlight and debris but require a cover pump to remove rainwater and snowmelt that accumulates on top. Mesh covers allow water to drain through while blocking leaves and debris, eliminating pumping but allowing some fine debris and algae growth. Both types use brass or stainless steel anchors installed in the deck, with straps connecting the cover to anchors every four to five feet.
Mesh winter covers are lighter and easier to install than solid covers, making them popular for pool owners who install and remove covers themselves. Solid covers provide better algae prevention and water clarity in spring but weigh significantly more when wet. Cover sizing is identical regardless of material type. Measure pool dimensions and add four feet to length and width for standard overlap. Custom pools with irregular shapes or attached spas require professional measuring for accurate cover sizing and anchor placement.
Solar Cover Sizing and Trimming
Solar blankets or bubble covers are clear or tinted plastic sheets with air bubbles that trap heat and reduce evaporation. These covers float directly on the water surface with bubbles facing down. Solar covers are sized to pool dimensions, trimmed to fit exactly within the pool perimeter. Standard sizes match common pool dimensions, but custom trimming is straightforward using scissors or a utility knife. Measure pool length and width at the waterline and purchase the next largest standard size cover.
Trimming solar covers requires laying the cover on the pool and marking the perimeter with a marker or chalk. Remove the cover and cut along the marked line, leaving a slight gap between the cover edge and pool wall to prevent cover bunching. Account for steps, ladders, and skimmer openings by cutting notches or curves as needed. A properly fitted solar cover floats flat without overlapping the pool edge or leaving large gaps. Covers should extend to within one to two inches of the pool wall for optimal coverage.
Automatic Pool Cover Sizing
Automatic pool covers are custom measured and installed by professionals, as they require precise track alignment and tensioning. These covers retract into a housing at one end of the pool, deploying via a motorized or manual crank system. The cover fabric is reinforced vinyl designed for daily use and must support the weight of a child or pet for safety. Automatic covers replace traditional winter covers and solar blankets, providing year round convenience and protection.
Automatic cover sizing accounts for pool dimensions, track placement, and housing location. Covers are manufactured to exact specifications after professional site measurement. The cover width matches pool width minus track width, while length extends from the housing to the opposite end plus several feet for winding onto the spool. Automatic covers are the most expensive option but offer unmatched convenience and safety, meeting ASTM safety standards for child protection when properly installed and maintained.
Measuring Your Pool for Cover Sizing
Accurate pool measurement is critical for proper cover sizing. For rectangular pools, measure length and width at the longest and widest points, typically at the waterline or top of the coping. Add overlap as specified by the cover type, usually four feet total for winter covers. For round pools, measure diameter across the center of the pool. For oval pools, measure both the maximum length and width, accounting for the curved ends.
Account for pool features like steps, benches, and attached spas when measuring. Winter safety covers can be ordered with cutouts for stairs or spas, requiring additional measurements. Solar covers are trimmed after purchase to fit around these features. If your pool has an irregular shape or custom design, consider professional measuring to ensure accurate cover sizing. Many cover manufacturers offer measuring guides and customer support to assist with complex pool shapes.
Practical Tips for Pool Cover Selection
Before purchasing a pool cover, determine your primary needs. Winter covers protect pools during off season closure, preventing debris accumulation and improving spring opening. Solar covers reduce heating costs and evaporation during swim season. Some pool owners use both, applying a solar cover daily and installing a winter cover for seasonal closure. Choose cover materials suited to your climate and usage patterns. Mesh covers work well in areas with heavy snow, while solid covers excel in regions with minimal precipitation.
Finally, verify sizing before ordering by measuring your pool multiple times and consulting sizing charts from cover manufacturers. Most companies provide detailed sizing guides matching pool dimensions to cover sizes. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer or a pool professional for guidance. A pool cover size guide with clear measurements ensures you select the right cover for your pool shape and type, providing years of protection, energy savings, and safety for your swimming pool investment.