Choosing a winter pool cover involves more than matching the length and width of your pool. Your pool type, surrounding deck, steps, shape and existing attachment system can all affect which options will work.
Use this guide to narrow your choices. If you’re unsure, bring photos and information about your pool to your local Galaxy showroom. Our team can help you compare your options before you purchase.
Above-Ground Pools
| Your pool setup | Cover options to consider |
| No deck | Start with an above-ground tarp. Check the cable and winch, determine whether cover clips are needed and choose the correct air-pillow size for your pool. |
| Half deck | An above-ground tarp may work if there is at least 2 inches of clearance between the deck and pool. Confirm the available clearance before selecting your cover. |
| Full deck | Compare an inground tarp secured with water tubes with a custom safety cover. Confirm the deck perimeter and available attachment method before choosing. |
Stealth Semi-Inground Pools
| Your pool setup | Cover options to consider |
| Standard installation or hardscape | A beaded cover may fit this setup. Confirm the exact fit, condition of the F-track and whether bead lock is appropriate. |
| Top ledge only | Options may include an above-ground tarp, beaded cover or—in installations buried at least 36 inches—an inground tarp. Confirm which accessories are required for the cover you select. |
| Deck without steps | Compare an inground tarp with water tubes, a beaded cover and a custom safety cover. Deck access and the available attachment method will help determine the right option. |
| Deck with steps | A beaded cover or custom safety cover may work. Because the steps affect the cover configuration, have Galaxy review the cover and step treatment together. |
| Half deck | A beaded cover may be appropriate. If the pool has steps, confirm the cover and step treatment together before ordering. |
Inground Pools
| Your pool setup | Cover options to consider |
| Standard inground pool | Compare an inground tarp secured with 1-by-8-foot water tubes with a custom safety cover. Confirm the required size and attachment method before ordering. |
| Steps, custom shape or unusual decking | Bring photos and information about your pool to a Galaxy showroom so the cover, steps and attachment method can be reviewed together. |
What to Have Before You Shop
It helps to gather:
- Photos showing the pool, deck and steps
- The pool’s dimensions and shape
- Details or photos of the existing track, anchors or attachment hardware
- Information about your current cover, if available
Considering a custom safety cover? Start early. Measurement, production, delivery and installation scheduling all take time.
Need help choosing? Contact your Galaxy showroom, and our team will help you compare your options.
Know what you need? Shop pool closing supplies online.
Interested in a custom safety cover? Explore custom inground safety covers.
Cover compatibility varies by pool and installation. This guide is intended as a starting point. Confirm fit, attachment requirements and required accessories before purchasing.
