The minimum overlap on the pool safety cover depends on the dimensions of your pool. It is usually about 3.5 times the overall length of the pool. Exclusions are different for different pools. Some exclusions include diving board bases, slide legs, in-wall steps, and waterfalls. Regular perimeter measurements include these exclusions, but a waterfall requires additional measurements.
Not allowing the proper overlap
There are many things to consider when installing a safety pool cover. First, you should make sure the cover is wide enough to fit over the edge of the pool. This will prevent any debris from blowing into the pool during the winter. Standard overlap is around 12″ to 18″ and Blue Waters Inc. recommends a wider overlap of 15″ to 18″. While this extra width may cost a few dollars, it is well worth the added margin of safety and ease of springtime cleanup.
Another important factor to consider is the shape of the pool. While a rectangular or oval pool can be measured by using a single tape measure, most pools require an A-B-plot measurement to create a custom safety cover. Some manufacturers also require specific measurements for certain types of pools.
Lastly, make sure that the safety cover is made of a material that is not porous. If possible, choose a solid cover that prevents sunlight and fine particles from getting into the pool. This type will protect the pool from algae growth, and it will also be easier to see through the cover. However, solid covers are heavier than mesh and may need periodic adjustments to fit correctly. Solid safety covers are also more difficult to put on and take off in the spring.
Mistakes in implementing the A-B method
When implementing the A-B method of pool safety cover installation, it is important to make sure that you are getting precise measurements. The fabric cover should mimic the contours of the pool, so it is important to take accurate measurements to ensure that the cover is installed properly.
There are several mistakes people can make when implementing the A-B pool safety cover system. For example, some people have placed the A measurements where the B measurements should be. This will result in an upside-down cover. Similarly, some have mismeasured the B measurements, which will result in an upside-down cover.
In addition to determining the location of the cover, a person should make sure that the track is level with the pool. If it is not, the cover will take longer to open and will wear out the motor earlier. Another mistake that people make is cutting the rope too short. This will prevent the cover from fully opening, and the rope will be less secure than it should be.
Installed incorrectly around obstructions
It is very important to install pool safety covers properly around obstructions. These can include railings, stairs, ladders, diving boards, and even a pool slide. While the first three feet of pool edge are relatively easy to cover, as soon as an obstruction comes into play, it will become much more difficult to install a pool safety cover around it.
The most common type of safety cover is a mesh cover. This is the cheapest option and has been around the longest. However, its main disadvantage is that it can attract algae. This is because of the mesh’s weave and exposure to sunlight. Mesh safety covers can be lightweight and inexpensive, but they can be prone to causing algae problems and resulting in ongoing chemical expenses.
When installing a pool safety cover around an obstruction, pay close attention to how it overlaps the edge of the pool. If an obstruction is vertical, it prevents the cover from overlapping around it. This can create a gap in the cover. The size of the gap will depend on how accurately the cover is measured, how carefully it was fitted, and any displacements the obstruction causes.
Not allowing room to stretch
When installing a safety cover, do not place it on vertical walls. This will cause the cover to wrinkle. When installing the safety cover, make sure that the holes are placed in the proper places. If they’re not, the cover will not stretch properly and can cause accidents.
The length of the straps may need adjusting. It is helpful to experiment with the length and orientation of the straps before installing the cover. Using your old cover as a template will help you determine the length that fits best. Also, make sure that the cover is properly tensioned.
When installing a pool safety cover, don’t forget to leave some space at the sides and back. You should leave about 12 to 24 inches between the straps and the edge of the pool. This will ensure that the cover stays in place, but will also give the installers room to pull tight.
Making masonry lids too bulky
Installing a safety cover is one of the easiest pool projects. It is much easier than installing a new liner, pump, filters, or even fixing damaged tile. Additionally, installing a safety cover also saves you money on the cost of a new safety cover. However, you must be ready to put in some work.
When installing a safety cover, make sure you use the right measurements. The size of the cover should match the shape of your pool. Simple shapes can be measured with a single tape measurer, but most pools require an A-B plot measurement. This measurement will help you create the custom cover. Be sure to check with the manufacturer for specific measurement guidelines.
If you have a freeform pool, you should also measure it. These types of pools often have curves, radius walls, or asymmetry. These types of pools will require a custom cover, which will cost more than off-the-shelf covers. To do this, you must measure each section with an A-B plot. This is not difficult, but it is more complex than measuring a rectangle.
Positioning the mechanism incorrectly
Positioning the pool safety cover mechanism incorrectly can cause it to open and close unevenly. One common cause of uneven operation is dirty tracks. To clean your cover’s tracks, attach a low-pressure hose and direct the stream of water into the track’s slot. When the water exits the track, it should be clean.
To correctly position the pool safety cover, first read and understand the installation instructions and measurements. This should help you avoid any unforeseen problems. If you do not know the dimensions of the pool, a template will show you how to make sure the safety cover fits. After this, take a long tape measure and mark the pool edge with chalk. It should take approximately 20 minutes to install a safety cover.
Positioning the pool safety cover mechanism incorrectly can result in injury or drowning. The mechanism operates by shifting a collar laterally to the left. As the collar moves, it engages a reel-driven member 56. As the reels rotate, the cords from the pool cover beads are collected on them. The cover is then pulled over the pool.
Cutting the track or ropes too short
To ensure proper pool safety cover overlap, make sure the ropes or track are installed at the proper level. If the track or ropes are set too low, they will cause the cover to open too slowly and wear the motor or cover sooner than expected. Also, many installers make the mistake of cutting the ropes too short, which prevents the cover from fully opening. If you notice any problems with the overlap, you can tighten the ropes on either side.
Before you start installing the pool safety cover, you should carefully measure the overlap. The overlap is the length between the edge of the pool cover. It can range from 10 to 15 inches. You can use a chalk line to help you determine the overlap.
Professionals should carefully measure the pool and the cover to ensure the cover will fit. Ideally, the fabric cover will match the contours of the pool. If not, a slight kink can interfere with the cover’s operation.
