Winter Cover Buying Strategy - Expectations, Color, Protection

[Zwrickers]

Hi - I just opened to silt/dirt at the bottom of my pool (which was closed last year TFP clear). It was the second year in Indiana winter for my Robelle Supreme Plus 12x12 scrim 3.26 oz/yd2 heavy duty, or so-called.
I know I need a new cover this winter.

1. How long to you expect your to really last - one year throwaway for $60, or two years for $120, or higher? We do get some snow and ice over the winter.
2. What is the best color, if that matters? Tan, Green, Brown, ?? My aqua one didn't really look as good as I though and it showed the dirt/leaves easily.
3. What products or companies have you had success with?

I don't want to invest in another 'good' one if it only lasts a year, and if I buy a cheaper one I want it to at least last the whole winter LOL.
Thanks,
Kristin

 

[Newdude]

Hey Zwrick !! The 2 schools of thought are pretty much what you listed.

The expensive covers (at least the quality ones) last longer but not usually enough to justify the price. There are those that feel better having a great cover.

The cheap covers don’t last and those who like to use them consider them disposable after a season and are thrilled if they last 2.

Both sides typically break even and there is no clear financial winner, but of course, someone’s individual results could skew the winner to them.

Both sides also have an ugly tarp at the end of the day and it’s again subjective if you like blue/brown/green/etc.

I moved last fall and got away from all the trees and debris that was my main reason for covering, so I went without for the first time because even in February, it was much nicer to see the pool water than some glorified tarp. For folks with light/medium debris we recommend they cover just for the fall when it’s heavier and then leave it up to them if they stay covered or not.

 

[Panzer]

I buy a new one (cheap) at my local pool store each year. I tried to save it the first year we owned the house... spent an hour scrubbing it on the driveway and then folding it up for storage. After storing it all summer we went to put it back on and as the cable started pulling snug I could see little separations starting in the weave.
My buddy tries to get 2 years out of his before he begins using it to cover the yard furniture over the winter...
Respectfully,

 

[CT-Steven]

Mine (in my signature) lasted the first year unscathed. Washed it and put it away for the next year. Was not really all that expensive. The pool tree system however was... Overall very happy with the way everything worked and duplicating it for this year.