Under Deck Mounted Automatic Pool Covers
Welcome to Pool Warehouse's comprehensive guide to under deck mounted automatic pool covers. These covers offer unparalleled convenience, safety, and energy savings for your swimming pool. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what they are to choosing the right one for your needs and location.
Under deck automatic pool covers provide a seamless and elegant solution for pool protection, completely concealed when retracted. The cover is housed within a hidden vault, usually constructed under the deck or coping, making it virtually invisible when open. This design maintains the aesthetic appeal of your pool area while offering all the benefits of an automatic pool cover.
What is an Under Deck Mounted Automatic Pool Cover?
An under deck mounted automatic pool cover is a retractable pool cover system designed to be hidden beneath the pool deck or coping when not in use. This mechanism operates electronically, providing a convenient and effortless way to cover and uncover your pool with the push of a button. The cover itself is made of durable, high-strength fabric that spans the entire pool surface, providing a barrier against debris, heat loss, and accidental falls.
Benefits of an Under Deck Cover
- Increased Safety: Prevents accidental falls into the pool, especially important for households with children and pets.
- Energy Savings: Reduces heat loss, lowering heating costs and conserving energy.
- Reduced Maintenance: Keeps leaves, debris, and other contaminants out of the pool, minimizing cleaning time and chemical usage.
- Extended Pool Life: Protects the pool finish and equipment from the elements, extending their lifespan.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Conceals the cover mechanism, maintaining the clean and elegant look of your pool area.
- Convenience: Automatic operation makes covering and uncovering the pool effortless.
Choosing the Right Cover
Selecting the right under deck mounted automatic pool cover involves considering several factors:
- Pool Size and Shape: The cover must be custom-made to fit your pool's exact dimensions and shape.
- Cover Material: Choose a material that is durable, UV-resistant, and suitable for your climate (more on this below).
- Drive Mechanism: Evaluate the type of drive mechanism (hydraulic or electric) based on reliability and maintenance requirements.
- Control System: Consider the ease of use and features of the control system (remote control, keypad, or smart home integration).
- Installation Requirements: Assess the complexity of the installation process and whether professional installation is required.
- Budget: Under deck systems can be more expensive than other options. Factor in installation costs, maintenance and consider long-term savings from reduced chemical and heating costs.
Materials and Durability
The material used for the pool cover is crucial for its durability and performance. Common materials include:
- Vinyl: A popular and cost-effective option, vinyl is durable and resistant to UV damage and chemicals. However, it may be less resistant to tearing than other materials.
- Polypropylene: A stronger and more tear-resistant option than vinyl, polypropylene offers excellent durability and longevity. It's also resistant to mildew and rot.
- Polycarbonate: While not used for the entire cover, polycarbonate is often used for slats in some high-end automatic cover systems. It's incredibly strong and durable but also more expensive.
- Reinforced PVC: A higher-end option that offers increased strength and tear resistance, as well as excellent UV and chemical resistance.
When comparing materials, consider the following factors:
- Tensile Strength: The ability of the material to withstand pulling forces without tearing.
- Tear Resistance: The ability of the material to resist tearing.
- UV Resistance: The ability of the material to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without degrading.
- Chemical Resistance: The ability of the material to resist damage from pool chemicals.
Geo-Specific Considerations
Your geographic location plays a significant role in choosing the right pool cover:
- Freezing Climates: In regions with freezing temperatures, it's crucial to choose a cover material that can withstand ice and snow loads. Consider a heavier-duty material and ensure that the cover is properly supported. During winterize ensure water level is maintained properly, the cover is adjusted to prevent snow and ice accumulation on the cover. Consider a pump to remove water accumulation.
- Warm Climates: In warm climates, UV resistance is paramount. Choose a cover material that is specifically designed to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without fading or degrading.
- High Wind Areas: If you live in an area with frequent high winds, choose a cover with reinforced edges and a secure anchoring system to prevent it from being blown off.
Installation Tips
Installing an under deck mounted automatic pool cover is a complex process that often requires professional expertise. However, here are some general tips:
- Proper Planning: Plan the installation carefully, considering the pool size, shape, and deck design.
- Accurate Measurements: Take accurate measurements to ensure a perfect fit.
- Professional Installation: Hiring a qualified installer is highly recommended to ensure proper installation and operation.
- Vault Construction: Ensure the under-deck vault is constructed correctly to house the mechanism.
- Electrical Connections: Follow all electrical codes and safety guidelines when connecting the drive mechanism.
- Test the System: Thoroughly test the system after installation to ensure it operates smoothly and safely.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your under deck mounted automatic pool cover in good working condition:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the cover regularly to remove leaves, debris, and other contaminants.
- Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Inspection: Inspect the cover and mechanism regularly for signs of wear and tear.
- Winterization: In freezing climates, winterize the system properly to prevent damage from ice and snow.
- Professional Servicing: Schedule regular professional servicing to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about under deck mounted automatic pool covers:
- How much does an under deck automatic pool cover cost? The cost varies depending on the pool size, cover material, and installation complexity. Expect a significant investment.
- Can I install an under deck cover on an existing pool? Yes, but it may require significant modifications to the deck and surrounding area.
- How long does an automatic pool cover last? With proper maintenance, a high-quality cover can last 10-15 years or more.
- Are under deck covers safe for children and pets? Yes, they provide a significant barrier against accidental falls.
- How do I clean my automatic pool cover? Use a soft brush and mild detergent to clean the cover regularly.
Ready to take the plunge? Explore our selection of under deck mounted automatic pool covers at Pool Warehouse and enjoy a safer, cleaner, and more energy-efficient swimming pool experience.
