A deck for an above ground pool can be a very smart investment. An above ground pool deck will create the illusion of an in-ground pool while adding aesthetic appeal and functional space to your backyard.
However, the downside is that by installing a deck around your above ground pool, it could make using a cover more difficult. For the most part, a pool cover is also a smart investment.
So how do you overcome this conundrum? We will tell you in the following article but first let’s talk about the benefits of using a cover for your above ground pool.
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Advantages of Using a Pool Cover
Installing a deck around your above ground pool will only do so much to protect it. In fact, in some cases, a deck might actually allow more debris to get into your pool. A pool cover will certainly help with this. Here are some of the other advantages of using a pool cover:
- Protects the Liner – The liner of your above ground pool is susceptible to UV degradation from constant sunlight exposure. A cover will increase the longevity (not to mention the good looks) of your pool liner.
- Keeps Animals Out – Critters like to use your above ground pool as a drinking fountain – especially if it has a deck which allows for easier access. A cover will help keep animals from dirtying and possibly dying in your pool.
- Limits Evaporation – The sun can drop your water level by two inches a day just from evaporation. Having a pool cover will prevent this evaporation and save you money on water.
- Helps with Safety – You may have small children or pets running around in your backyard. Using a pool cover will limit the risk of drowning or injury.
- Keeps your Pool Clean – Of course, having a layer of protection over your pool will make it easier to maintain. Less debris will get into your pool which means less cleaning for you.
Covers You can Use for Your Above Ground Pool with Deck
Decking your above ground pool can limit you in terms of what kind of covers you can use. Fortunately, there are a variety of quality covers you can use as swimming pool deck covers.
Winter Covers
Winter pool covers are solid coverings that are usually made from vinyl and plastic. This means that unlike some other types of pool covers, the chlorine in your pool water will not damage it.
Winter pool covers above ground with deck are especially handy for keeping debris out of your pool. Since they are solid, they essentially keep all debris out of your pool. They are typically larger than other types of covers so you can use them to cover a portion of your deck as well.
A winter pool cover will also prevent UV light from reaching your water – again, because the material is completely opaque. This will protect the chlorine from degradation and help cut your pool chemical costs.The only downside to winter pool covers is that they can be troublesome to install.
Wooden Deck Pool Covers
A wooden deck pool cover would be a good choice if you have small children and pets. This is the safest option because it creates a solid surface over your above ground pool. Some wooden pool covers can even double up as a pool deck.
This is also a great option if you are looking for a cover that contributes to the aesthetic appeal of your yard. These types of covers come in beautiful wood finishes and can be made to slide on and off of your pool.
The problem with this kind of pool cover is that it is very heavy and more permanent than the other options. A sliding wooden pool cover will also be more expensive than other types.
Mesh Covers
Mesh covers essentially put a net over your pool. Like solid covers, they are typically made very large so that they can cover a portion of your deck as well. Mesh covers are very easy to install and will not require you to drain your pool.
Mesh pool covers are also inexpensive. One of the drawbacks to these kinds of covers though is that they can only keep larger debris out of your pool. Still, they can be made to fit over most above ground pools with decks.
The Right Cover for You
Ultimately, the right cover for you will depend on your needs. Some options are safer but more expensive than others. Some offer more debris protection than others. Still, it’s a good idea to cover your above ground pool one way or another and all of the options we listed above will work.
They can increase safety, increase the longevity of your pool and limit the need for maintenance.
