MAINTAINING YOUR POOL COVER THROUGH JOHANNESBURG WINTERS

Johannesburg winters are dry and cold — not what most people associate with pool damage. But leaving your pool uncovered or using a poorly maintained cover during the winter months leads to evaporation, debris accumulation, and algae growth that costs money to fix come spring.

Why a Pool Cover Matters in Winter

During the Highveld winter, evaporation rates are surprisingly high due to low humidity and frequent wind. A quality PVC pool cover can reduce water loss by up to 95%, saving you significantly on municipal water bills.

Cleaning Your Pool Cover

Before storing for the season — or if using a cover throughout winter — follow these steps:

• Brush off leaves and debris before folding to avoid scratching the surface
• Rinse with a mild soap solution and a soft brush
• Avoid pressure washers on standard PVC covers — they can damage the coating
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to dry completely in the sun

Checking for Damage

Winter is the ideal time to inspect your cover while it's off the pool:

• Look for small tears or pinholes — these can be repaired with PVC repair tape
• Check the eyelets and anchor points for rust or loosening
• Examine the edges for fraying or delamination

Storage Tips

If you're removing your cover for the winter:

• Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight
• Roll rather than fold to prevent crease cracking
• Use a cover bag or wrap in a tarpaulin to keep dust off
• Never store on bare concrete — place on a wooden pallet or mat

When to Replace

A quality PVC pool cover should last 5–8 years with proper care. Signs it's time for a new one include persistent leaking despite repairs, significant fading and brittleness, or cover edges that no longer seal properly around the pool perimeter.

We manufacture custom-fit pool covers for all pool shapes and sizes. Contact us for a quote.