Average Costs by Pool Cover Type
| Cover Type | Cost Range |
|------------------------|----------------------|
| Solar | $30–$150 |
| Winter | $75–$250 |
| Walkable | $600–$2,280 |
| Net | $1,200–$3,000 |
| Safety (Mesh) | $1,200–$3,000 |
| Safety (Solid) | $1,800–$3,600 |
| Manual | $500–$5,000 |
| Custom | $1,500–$6,000 |
| Automatic | $7,000–$25,000 |
Factors Affecting Pool Cover Costs
1. Cover Type
- Basic Covers (Solar/Winter): Affordable, provide debris protection.
- Advanced Covers (Safety/Automatic): Offer safety features and convenience but at a premium.
2. Pool Size
- Larger pools require more material, driving up costs.
- Average cost: ~$4 per square foot for most covers.
3. Pool Shape
- Standard Shapes (rectangle, oval): Cheaper, pre-made options available.
- Custom Shapes: Require tailored designs, increasing costs significantly.
4. Pool Type
- Above-Ground Pools: Covers cost $35–$1,000.
- In-Ground Pools: Covers cost $75–$10,000.
5. Installation Needs
- DIY installation possible for basic covers.
- Professional labor for advanced covers (manual/automatic track systems) can cost $400–$10,000.
Additional Costs
Repairs
- DIY Repairs: Patch kits cost $10–$20 for simple tears.
- Professional Repairs: $50–$100/hour, depending on complexity.
Track Systems (For Manual & Automatic Covers)
- Top Track: Most affordable but visible and may pose a trip hazard.
- Recessed Track: Moderate cost; semi-hidden.
- Undertrack: Most expensive; virtually invisible.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
- DIY Installation: Suitable for solar or winter covers; savings: $50–$200.
- Pro Installation: Recommended for track systems or safety covers to ensure proper functioning.
Money-Saving Tips
- Choose Simple Designs:
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Avoid premium automatic systems unless needed for convenience or safety.
-
Stick to Standard Shapes:
-
Custom shapes increase material and labor costs.
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Use DIY for Basic Covers:
-
Install solar or winter covers yourself to save on labor.
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Invest in Durable Materials:
- Spend more upfront on long-lasting covers to avoid frequent replacements.
By selecting the right cover type and installation approach, you can balance safety, convenience, and cost for your pool.
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