Closing Down Pools: What It Means to Have You Covered

To the uninitiated, closing a pool takes a few steps, says Deck and Patio's Outdoor Living Expert, Bill Renter. To get a full picture of what's involved, our team spoke with a pool contractor who works with Bill on a regular basis - Michael Truehart, CSB, owner of True Blue Swimming Pools in Deer Park.
"In climates like the Northeast," says Michael, "the most important reason for closing a pool is pipes and other pool equipment can freeze in cold months. Part of what we do is administer a chlorine shock, or algaecides, or phosphate remover to the pool water. Then the pool/spa equipment is taken apart and cleaned, drained of water, and underground pipes are blown out so no water can freeze in them."
Because our changing seasons cause a lot of falling twigs and leaves especially in the Fall, a pool cover is imperative, says Michael. "We don't recommend a plain tarp cover that sags under the weight of rain collected on it. We suggest a mesh-type cover that allows rain to seep through it. This does require another step: lowering the pool water level to about 12-18 inches below the coping. Then, as rain water seeps through the mesh cover, the pool can accommodate it."
Our own Bill Renter adds that he finds these mesh covers, such as the Loop Loc brand, are also important to help ensure that no one gains access to the pool when it's unsupervised. The mesh covers are very taught he explains. "A plain tarp type cover that holds water on it will collapse if a pet or child walks on it. But mesh covers, with strong straps to hold them in place, allow for water to drain through into the pool."
"These covers are so taught, they act almost like a trampoline," confirms Michael.