The decision to install a swimming pool isn’t made lightly—in fact, it’s a huge investment! Protecting it from the elements is essential so it will remain in good condition for years to come. The best way to do that is by installing a mesh pool enclosure or purchasing a pool cover.
We’re going to take a look at both and, maybe, by the time you finish reading this, you’ll know which is best for you.
Mesh vs glass
There’s a reason to install a mesh pool enclosure instead of glass—and, that’s free airflow.
It may not seem like much, but one of the biggest complaints about glass pool enclosures is that people can begin to feel “trapped” when inside them. Because there’s no natural airflow, it creates a “stuffy” atmosphere that some will admit makes them feel claustrophobic.
Another disadvantage to glass enclosures is that they trap moisture inside which promotes the growth of mold and mildew. Left unchecked, it can, ultimately, have a detrimental effect on your family’s health.
Mesh pool enclosures
Mesh pool enclosures are high-quality structures that completely screen in your pool area. We’ve already mentioned that air flows freely through the screening material allowing you to feel every whisper of a breeze. It completely eliminates the claustrophobic effect caused by glass enclosures.
There are other benefits to choosing a mesh pool enclosure and they are:
Privacy
It’s surprising what a difference an element of privacy has in your surroundings. You’ll never have moments of feeling “on display” when everyone seems to be out in their backyards at the same time—or feel under the watchful eye of a nosy neighbor.
Safety
There’s no need to worry about a child or someone’s pet going out onto the pool cover and causing it to collapse. You can lock the door on your mesh pool enclosure and not give safety another thought.
Debris blocker
Florida is well known for pop-up storms. You won’t have to worry about getting caught with the pool cover off if your pool is enclosed entirely. Let the wind blow as hard as it wants—it’s not going to be cluttering up your pool with storm debris.
Think about all the skimming you won’t be doing.
Keeps bugs away
Tropical weather is the ideal breeding ground for all types of bugs. They won’t be hanging around during pool time any longer. Mosquitoes can’t get to you either.
Imagine the difference that will make.
UV protection
While mesh pool enclosures don’t block 100% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, they do cut down your exposure to them. That means you won’t be pulling everyone out of the pool to reapply sunscreen as often.
It’s also worth noting that some mesh pool enclosure companies—like ours, for instance—offer their customers a customization feature. You can provide any digital image and have it displayed on your pool enclosure walls.
Talk about a dramatic effect! You can feel as if you’ve been transported to anywhere on earth the moment you walk out your back door.
We’ll mention too that mesh pool enclosures are very easy to clean. Turn the kids loose with a bucket of sudsy water and a scrub brush a couple of times a year to clean off accumulated salt and debris build-up. They’re strong enough to stand up to a power washer too.
Pool covers
Some people refer to a pool cover as a pool blanket. They’re a piece of material that spreads across the surface of a swimming pool. Common materials are PVC, coated tarpaulin, or vinyl and they come in a wide variety of colors and designs.
Their main purpose is to protect your pool from environmental debris—such as leaves, grass, dirt, and bugs.
Homeowners often choose one of three types of pool covers.
Inground/above-ground pool covers
They appear handy because they lay on top of the water’s surface. Inground/above-ground covers help reduce cleaning costs and are the cheapest option when looking for a basic pool cover. They tend to need to be replaced about every five years or so though. Also, you should note they may not be sturdy enough to prevent a human or animal from falling in.
Safety pool covers
Although made from the same types of materials as inground/above-ground pool covers, safety pool covers have the added protection of being secured to the ground. That means they aren’t blowing off and away during a storm.
They’re strong enough to prevent children and animals from falling into the pool too.
Be prepared to clear accumulated debris from the top of the cover before removing it though. And, you may need to keep a pump handy to clear any standing water if the cover isn’t equipped with a drain.
Solar pool covers
Solar pool covers capture the heat from the sun reducing the cost of heating your pool. They keep water from evaporating as quickly too—that saves you money on the water bill.
Solar pool covers are lightweight and easy to use. Bubble blankets and solar sun rings are two popular types of solar covers.
Solar pool covers reduce cleaning costs because they keep out the majority of leaves and debris. They aren’t known for their longevity though so be prepared to replace them regularly.
Weighing the difference
Swimming pools are a great place to make lasting memories all summer—every summer. You should do all that you can to ensure it’s protected from the harsh Florida sun and the salt erosion that affects everything left outdoors here.
Creating a private outdoor pool area with a mesh pool enclosure can change the ambiance dramatically—especially when you have your screens customized! You’ll be able to enjoy your pool day or night without being invaded by bugs and mosquitoes. Moreover, you can have the peace of mind of knowing that entry to the pool is blocked unless you say so.
While pool covers are a valid option for keeping out the majority of debris, most won’t prevent children and pets from falling in. In addition, they don’t provide any type of UV protection because it isn’t safe to swim under them and they have to be totally removed when the pool is in use.