How To Keep Your Pool Cover From Sagging

Written by Michael Dean
June 6, 2023

sagging pool cover

Whether you have an above-ground or inground pool, a pool cover is a great way to keep your swimming area clean and safe. A pool cover also prevents evaporation, which means you’ll save money on water bills. But a sagging pool cover can be unsightly and dangerous. A sagging pool cover can cause water to accumulate, leading to mold and mildew growth. However, there are a few things that you can do to fix and prevent sagging pool covers, and I will cover these methods in this article.


Main Takeaways

  • You need a pool cover to keep your pool clean and safe; a cover also prevents evaporation, so you’ll save on water bills.
  • A pool cover can sag for many reasons, including: low water levels, snow and ice, improper installation, and more.
  • There are a few tips to prevent a sagging pool cover, such as checking the water level regularly, fixing leaks immediately, replacing an old pool cover, and making sure the cover is the right size.

What Causes a Pool Cover to Sag?

Low Water Level

One common reason that your pool cover will start to sag is that the water level in your pool has dropped below the top of the pool cover. This can happen due to evaporation or leakage. If you have an inground pool, you may also have a problem with groundwater seeping into your pool, which can cause the water level to drop.

Snow and Ice

Another cause of a sagging pool cover is snow and ice accumulation. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, it’s important to regularly remove the snow from your pool cover. Otherwise, the weight of the snow can cause your pool cover to sag. One easy way to prevent snow and ice build-up is to invest in an Air Pillow for the winter months.

Old Pool Cover

Check the condition of your pool cover. It may be time to replace it if it is old or worn out. A new pool cover will be more durable and less likely to sag. A common reason for a sagging pool cover is that the cover is old, and it’s probably time to replace it. This can also vary between the different types of pool covers.

Improper Installation

Another possible reason for the sagging pool cover is that it wasn’t installed properly. If the cover isn’t installed correctly, it can start to sag in the middle or at the edges. This is usually caused by too much tension on one side of the cover or not enough on the other side.

Improper Size

If your pool cover is too large for your pool, it will sag in the middle. Make sure the cover is sized correctly for your pool. Oversized pool covers can also blow away in strong winds.

Too Much Weight on the Cover

If there is too much weight on the cover, it can start to sag. This is usually caused by people walking or sitting on the cover. If you have a pool cover meant for safety, it’s essential to ensure that no one walks or sits on it.

Trash and Debris

Another common cause of a sagging pool cover is trash and debris accumulating on top of the cover. This can happen if you don’t regularly clean your pool cover. If there is too much trash on the pool cover, it may sag. To avoid debris build-up, purchasing a pool cover pump is a smart option, which filters all the debris and protects your pool cover in the off-season.

How to Keep Your Pool Cover From Sagging?

An efficient pool cover will help maintain the pool water temperature, saving money on water bills. A sagging pool cover, however, can be unsightly and dangerous. By following certain practices, you can keep your pool cover from sagging.

Check the Water Level Regularly

One of the main reasons for a pool cover to sag is a low water level. Make it a habit to check the water level in your pool at least once a week. If you notice that the water level has dropped, add more water to the pool.

Fix Leaks Right Away

If there are leaks in the pool, it’s essential to fix them immediately. Leaks can cause the water level to drop, resulting in a sagging pool cover. Check for leaks around the pool deck, skimmer box, plumbing fixtures, and other potential leak sources.

Replace Old Pool Cover

If your pool cover is old, it’s probably time to replace it. An old pool cover can become brittle and start to sag. If you’ve had your pool cover for over five years, it’s time to buy a new one. But first, you must know how to remove your pool cover correctly.

Make Sure the Cover is the Right Size

Sagging pool covers may also be due to incorrect sizing. Make sure you buy a pool cover that is the right size for your pool. A too-small cover will sag, while a too-large cover can blow off in strong winds.

Weigh Down the Cover

One way to keep a pool cover from sagging is to weigh it down. You can do this with sandbags, water bags, or bricks. Place these weights evenly around the pool cover, so it doesn’t sag in one spot.

Properly Install the Cover

When installing the cover, you should make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. But if the pool cover was improperly installed, don’t worry – there’s a fix for that! You could try to adjust the tension. You can do this by loosening or tightening the straps that hold the cover in place. You may need someone to help you do this so that the cover is evenly tensioned on all sides, or you can check out my article on how to properly install a pool cover.

Distribute the Weight Evenly (Above-Ground Pools Only)

If you have an above-ground pool, you can also try placing a board on top of the cover. This will help to distribute weight evenly and prevent the cover from sagging.

How Tight Should Your Pool Cover Be?

Not all pool covers are meant to be pulled tight. In fact, many pool covers are meant to have a little bit of slack in them. This is because the cover needs to be able to expand and contract as the temperature changes. If the cover is too tight, it can put too much stress on the seams and cause them to fail. Consult the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website if you’re unsure how tight your pool cover should be. You can also ask a pool professional for help and install your pool cover properly.

When it comes to pool covers, a little bit of sag is normal. But, if your pool cover is sagging more than an inch or two, it’s time to take action. By following the tips above, you can prevent your pool cover from sagging and extend its lifespan.

Need Some Maintenance Help?

Send me a message! I can answer any of your pool maintenance, equipment, or other questions.

Bottom Line

A saggy pool cover is the last thing you want when you want to protect your pool. It is not only unsightly, but it also may create mold on the surface of the cover. If you have a sagging pool cover, follow my tips and tricks to fix this issue, from checking the water levels and getting rid of the water on your cover, properly installing the cover, and more.

If you have any further questions, contact me. I’m happy to help!

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