In today’s episode of Poolside Chat, Rob and Matt tackle a question about winter pool covers “I have an odd shape inground pool. How do I know what cover size I should use?”

The first thing you want to do is regardless of the shape of your pool. You have a freeform shape, and you want to measure the longest length and the widest width. If you have a rectangle pool with a step section on the end, go from one end of the pool, all the way to the end of those steps, and take that longest measurement. Once you have that, you can take the next step.

Let’s say, for example, we own a pool that measures 17’×34′. So you’d go to our cover page and look for a cover of that size. You’d look for the next size up, the correct cover choice for the 17’x34′ pool is the 18’x36′. You may also be wondering…

“Well, is that too much material?”

No, it’s not. Why?

Because with winter pool covers, you need to have that extra material so the cover can go up on the deck, and then you can set the water bags, what you want to use to keep the winter cover in place. Also, some people like to lower their water level when they’re winterizing their pool, and you can use that extra material from the overhang to compensate.

The safety covers need to fit your exact shape and size. The reason being is because there’s padding around the edge of the cover that prevents the coping from rubbing on the cover and tearing a hole. If you put an oversized safety cover on an undersized pool, it’s going to rub, and you’re going to get a hole. It’s going to void the warranty, and you’re out of luck.

No, the safety cover needs to be exact. For example, winter covers needed to be the same size or larger. I think that answers the question, I believe.

If you have any questions about anything pool and spa, please visit us over INYOPools.com, and as always, thank you for joining us.