Buying a Safety Pool Cover: A Simple Consumer Checklist
Not all pool covers are created equal. A true safety pool cover is designed to help create a secure barrier over your pool when it is not in use.
Before you buy, make sure you can check these boxes:
Look For
- ASTM F1346 Compliance — Ask if the exact cover meets ASTM F1346 safety-cover requirements.
- U.L. Certification — Ask if the exact cover is independently U.L. Certified by Underwriters Laboratories.
- A Custom Fit — Your cover should be custom measured for your specific pool, including steps, ladders, handrails, spas, waterfalls, and special features.
- Quality Materials — Look for durable cover fabric, strong bonded polyester thread, reinforced webbing, heavy-duty straps, secure anchors, and corrosion-resistant springs.
- Professional Installation — A safety cover is a complete system. Proper measuring, installation, tensioning, and hardware matter.
- A Trusted Manufacturer — Choose a company with a proven history, clear warranty, authorized dealer support, and the ability to provide service and replacement parts in the future.
- Made in the U.S.A. — Ask where the cover is manufactured and who will stand behind it after the sale.
Watch Out For
- “Too Good to Be True” Low Prices — A lower-priced cover may look similar online but may not include the same testing, materials, fit, hardware, installation, warranty, or long-term support.
- Vague Descriptions — Be cautious of phrases like “comparable to,” “equivalent,” “heavy-duty,” or “premium quality” if the exact manufacturer and model are not listed.
- Bait-and-Switch Confusion — Make sure your written proposal clearly identifies the exact brand, cover model, material, color, warranty, installation, ASTM compliance, and U.L. certification.
Ask These Five Questions Before You Buy
- Does this exact cover meet ASTM F1346 safety-cover requirements?
- Is this exact cover U.L. Certified?
- Who manufactured it, and where is it made?
- Is it custom measured and professionally installed for my pool?
- Who will provide service, repairs, and warranty support years from now?
Remember
A safety pool cover should be judged by more than how it looks or what it costs today. Look for proven safety standards, independent certification, quality construction, professional installation, and a company you can trust.
About LOOP-LOC
Founded in 1978, LOOP-LOC is nearly five decades strong as a trusted manufacturer of premium safety pool covers and vinyl liners, proudly made in the U.S.A. Known for innovation, quality craftsmanship, and exceptional customer support, LOOP-LOC helps homeowners and pool professionals protect and enhance pools of every shape and size. For more information or to find an authorized dealer near you, visit the LOOP-LOC Dealer Locator today.
Made in the U.S.A.