Having an inground pool is a great way to enjoy the summer months and stay cool, but proper maintenance is a must.
One of the most essential tasks is putting on a pool cover, which not only keeps debris out of your pool but also helps to reduce energy costs.
While this job may seem complicated, it can be done quickly and easilyif you know what to do.
In this article, you’ll learn how to put an inground pool cover on by yourself and the tools and patience you’ll need to get the job done.
Short Answer
The first step is to assemble the pool cover and make sure it fits the shape and size of your pool.
Next, attach the mounting anchors for the pool cover to the side of the pool.
Then, use a drill to secure the anchors in the ground.
Finally, use a winch to stretch the pool cover over the pool and secure it to the anchors.
Measuring the Pool for the Size of the Cover
When it comes to putting an inground pool cover on by yourself, the first step is to measure the pool to determine the size of the cover you need.
This is essential in order to ensure the cover fits properly and securely.
Measuring the pool involves taking a few basic measurements of the length, width, and depth.
Once you have the measurements in hand, you can use an online pool cover calculator to determine the size of the cover you should purchase.
It is important to be precise when measuring the pool as even a small miscalculation can lead to an ill-fitting cover.
When measuring the length and width, make sure to use a tape measure and always measure from the inside of the pool to the outside, as this will give you the most accurate measurements.
When measuring the depth, make sure to take into account any steps or platforms that may be present.
Once you have all the measurements, double-check them for accuracy before purchasing the cover.
Taking the time to make sure you have the right measurements will save you time and hassle in the end.
Clearing the Area Around the Pool
Putting an inground pool cover on by yourself can be a challenging task, but with the right preparations, it is possible.
Before you can secure the cover, you’ll need to make sure the area around the pool is completely clear.
This includes removing any debris, leaves, or dirt that could get in the way.
If you have any outdoor furniture, toys, or other items around the pool, make sure to move them out of the way.
If the pool is surrounded by grass, you’ll also need to trim the edges to ensure the cover fits perfectly.
Once you’ve cleared the area around the pool, you’ll be ready to measure and choose the correct size cover.
Spreading the Pool Cover Evenly
Spreading the pool cover evenly is essential for a successful installation.
Begin by clearing any debris from the area around the pool, such as leaves, rocks, and twigs.
If you have an above-ground pool, make sure the cover is spread out evenly on the top of the pool.
For an inground pool, you should ensure that the cover is spread out evenly around the sides and bottom of the pool.
The cover should be taut, with no wrinkles or folds.
If you notice any unevenness, adjust the cover and reposition it until it is spread out evenly.
Once the cover is in place, use a winch or a ratchet strap to secure the cover to the pools edge.
Make sure the straps are tight enough to keep the cover secure, but not so tight as to damage the cover.
If necessary, you can fill any gaps between the cover and the pool edge with sandbags or cinder blocks to ensure a snug fit.
With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can successfully put an inground pool cover on by yourself.
Securing the Cover to the Pool’s Edge
Once you have the correct pool cover size, it’s time to secure it to the pool’s edge.
This can be done with a winch or a ratchet strap, both of which can be found at most home improvement stores.
If you opt for a winch, you’ll need to attach it to a stationary object, such as a tree or a post, and then loop the winch cable around the pool’s edge.
Then, simply crank the winch until the cover is properly secured.
If you choose to use a ratchet strap, you’ll first need to attach it to a stationary object, such as a tree or post, and then loop it around the pool’s edge.
Then, use the ratchet mechanism to tighten the strap until the cover is properly secured.
Whichever method you choose, make sure you double-check your work to ensure the cover is secured properly.
This will help prevent the cover from slipping off or coming loose, which could lead to damage to the pool and potentially to the cover itself.
Filling Gaps Between the Cover and the Pool Edge
Filling the gaps between the cover and the pool edge is a crucial step when putting an inground pool cover on by yourself.
This helps to ensure the cover is secure and that no water can escape.
To fill these gaps, you can use sandbags or cinder blocks.
Sandbags are lightweight and can be easily filled with sand or gravel.
Cinder blocks are heavier, but they can provide more stability and protection.
When using sandbags, you’ll want to make sure each bag is filled to the same level.
This will help the cover to lay flat and evenly.
If you’re using cinder blocks, you’ll want to make sure the blocks are lined up and secured with a cord or rope.
This will help to hold them in place and keep them from shifting.
After you’ve filled the gaps between the cover and the pool edge, you’ll want to check that the cover is still secure.
You can do this by tugging on the cover and making sure it doesn’t move or come loose.
If it does, you may need to add more sandbags or cinder blocks.
Once you’re satisfied with the tightness of the cover, you can move on to the next step.
Tools Needed for the Job
Putting an inground pool cover on by yourself can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be done.
Before you can begin, youll need to make sure you have all the necessary supplies.
A measuring tape, a winch or ratchet strap, sandbags or cinder blocks, and a pool cover are the main items youll need.
The measuring tape is essential for finding the size of the pool cover you need.
Youll want to measure the pools length, width, and depth to find the most accurate size.
Once youre sure of the size, you can buy a pool cover that best fits your pool.
The winch or ratchet strap is necessary for securing the pool cover to the pools edge.
The winch is a more expensive option, but it will make it much easier to tighten the pool cover.
The ratchet strap is cheaper, but also more work.
Youll have to manually tighten it.
Sandbags or cinder blocks are necessary for filling gaps between the pool cover and the pools edge.
Youll need something to weigh down the cover, so the sandbags or cinder blocks will do the trick.
Finally, the pool cover is the last item youll need.
Once youve measured your pool, you can buy the correct size cover.
Make sure to get a cover that is strong and durable, as you dont want it to tear or rip.
With these supplies in hand, youre ready to begin the process of putting an inground pool cover on by yourself.
Make sure you have everything you need before beginning, as it will make the process much easier.
Patience is Required
Putting an inground pool cover on by yourself can be a difficult task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be done.
Patience is key when it comes to this job, as you will likely be dealing with a large and unwieldy cover, and there will be plenty of obstacles that could make the process more difficult than it already is.
You may need to take multiple measurements of the pool to determine the correct size of the cover, and you’ll need to make sure that the cover is spread out evenly and free of wrinkles before it is secured in place.
Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that the cover is securely fastened to the edge of the pool, which can require a winch or a ratchet strap.
Finally, you’ll need to fill in any gaps between the cover and the edge of the pool with sandbags or cinder blocks to ensure that the cover is secure and won’t move around when it is in use.
By taking your time and being patient with the process, you can successfully put an inground pool cover on by yourself.
Final Thoughts
With patience and the right tools, you can successfully put an inground pool cover on by yourself.
Now that you know the steps and the tools you need, you can confidently tackle this project and enjoy the peace-of-mind that comes with having a secure pool cover.
So, start measuring your pool, gather the supplies, and get to work!