When it’s time to close your pool for the season, most pool owners face the same question: Should you use a pool safety cover or a tarp? While both options keep leaves and debris out of your pool, they are not created equal. Let’s break down the main differences between pool safety covers and tarps, and explain why a safety cover is the smarter long-term investment.
1. Keep Your Family and Pets Safe — No Surprises
Safety Covers:
The primary benefit of a safety cover is right in its name — safety. These covers are anchored securely into your pool deck and can support the weight of children, pets, or even an adult. That means if someone accidentally walks across the pool area, there’s far less risk of injury or drowning.
Tarps:
Tarps offer no safety protection at all. They are held down by water bags or weights, which can shift or break. If a child, pet, or even a stray animal steps on a tarp, it can collapse, creating a dangerous situation.
2. Durability & Longevity
Safety Covers:
Though they cost more upfront, a pool safety cover will last significantly longer than tarps. They are built with durable mesh or solid material that resists wear and tear from weather, sunlight, and rough deck edges. Over time, they can actually be more cost-effective, because you won’t have to replace them every season.
Tarps:
Tarps may be cheaper initially, but they often need to be replaced every few years — sometimes sooner if exposed to harsh conditions. Water bags can also tear, leak, or freeze, adding more expense and hassle over time.
3. Simplify Pool Maintenance
Safety Covers:
Mesh safety covers allow rain and snow to pass through into the pool (as long as your pool has an overflow), so you don’t need to set up a pump on top to remove standing water. Leaves and debris stay on top of the cover and can easily be blown or swept away.
Tarps:
Tarps trap water, leaves, and debris on top, which can be heavy and messy to remove. The weight can also cause the tarp to sag or collapse into the pool, potentially dumping dirty water back into your freshly balanced pool water.
4. Lock in Chemicals and Prevent Algae
Safety Covers:
A properly installed pool safety cover blocks UV light, helping to prevent algae growth and slowing chemical loss. This keeps your pool water in better condition during the off-season and saves you money on spring openings.
Tarps:
Tarps can block UV light too, but because they often sag and allow dirty water to collect, they can compromise your water balance.
5. Upgrade Your Backyard’s Appeal
Safety Covers:
Safety covers create a sleek, tensioned look across your pool. No sagging, no bulky water bags — just a clean, professional appearance that keeps your backyard looking great all winter.
Tarps:
Tarps, with their uneven edges and water bags scattered around the pool, are far less attractive. They can make your pool area look cluttered and messy.
Pool Safety Covers Save You Time, Money, and Stress
While tarps can be tempting because of their lower price, safety covers offer better protection, easier maintenance, longer life, and peace of mind. When you compare the differences side by side, the choice is clear:
- Safety covers keep your loved ones safe
- They save you money in the long run
- They make seasonal pool maintenance simpler and less stressful
- They look much better on your pool deck
Ready to make the switch?
Contact The Pool Butler today for a custom pool safety cover installation and enjoy a safer, cleaner, and more beautiful pool — all year long.
