How to Cover Above Ground Pool With Partial Deck: Easy Solutions

Having an above ground pool with a partial deck brings many benefits—easy access, more space for relaxing, and a stylish look. But when it comes to covering your pool, things can get tricky. A partial deck means you can’t just use a regular cover. You need a solution that fits around the deck, keeps the water clean, and protects your investment. Many pool owners struggle with this challenge, but there are smart ways to cover your pool safely and effectively.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about covering an above ground pool with a partial deck. We’ll walk through the reasons to cover your pool, the options available, how to measure and choose the right cover, and step-by-step instructions for installation. You’ll also discover tips, common mistakes to avoid, and advanced solutions for tricky deck shapes. Whether you’re a new pool owner or have years of experience, these insights will help you protect your pool and enjoy a stress-free season.

Why Covering Your Above Ground Pool Matters

A pool cover does much more than keep leaves out. For above ground pools with a partial deck, using a cover is even more important. Here’s why:

• Keeps Water Clean: Leaves, bugs, and dirt can quickly make pool water dirty. With a cover, you reduce cleaning time and keep maintenance simple.
• Prevents Accidents: A sturdy cover can help stop pets, wildlife, or children from falling in. While not every cover is safety-rated, a well-fitted one adds a layer of protection.
• Saves Money: Covers reduce evaporation, so you use less water and chemicals. This can save you hundreds of dollars each year.
• Protects Against Weather: Rain, snow, and sun can damage your pool liner. A cover blocks UV rays and debris, helping your pool last longer.
• Makes Opening Easier: When spring comes, you’ll spend less time removing algae and stains if you kept your pool covered.

Many owners with partial decks think covering their pool is too hard. But the right techniques make it manageable, even for tricky deck shapes.

Understanding Partial Deck Challenges

A partial deck means your pool isn’t surrounded on all sides. You may have a deck on one side, a corner, or a wrap-around that covers part of the pool’s edge. This brings up some unique problems:

• Uneven Edges: The deck blocks access to some parts of the pool rim, making it hard to secure a cover.
• Different Heights: The deck may sit higher than the pool edge, creating gaps or tension points.
• Attachment Issues: Standard covers use cables or clips around the whole pool. With a partial deck, some attachment points are blocked.

These challenges mean you can’t just buy a “one size fits all” cover. But with careful planning, you can protect your pool just as well as if you had a full deck.

Types Of Pool Covers For Partial Decks

Choosing the right cover is the most important step. Here are the main options and how they work with a partial deck:

1. Traditional Tarp Covers

These are large, heavy-duty tarps made of vinyl or woven plastic. They’re affordable and easy to find.

• Pros: Low cost, simple to use.
• Cons: Hard to secure under a deck. May sag or blow off if not attached well.

2. Custom-fit Covers

Some companies make covers to match your pool’s exact shape. You provide measurements, and they cut the cover to fit around your deck.

• Pros: Perfect fit, looks neat, easier to secure.
• Cons: Higher price, takes time to order.

3. Leaf Nets

A lightweight net that sits on top of the pool to catch leaves and large debris. It’s often used with a solid cover.

• Pros: Easy to remove, keeps large debris out.
• Cons: Doesn’t stop water or fine dirt, must be paired with another cover for full protection.

4. Safety Covers

These are made from strong mesh or solid material and attach tightly to the pool edge with anchors or straps. Some models are designed for partial decks and can be customized.

• Pros: Excellent safety, strong and durable.
• Cons: Expensive, may need professional installation.

5. Solar Covers

A solar cover is a bubble wrap-like sheet that floats on the water. It keeps heat in and reduces evaporation.

• Pros: Easy to handle, helps heat the water.
• Cons: Not for winter or heavy debris, needs another cover for full protection.

6. Hybrid Covers

Some covers combine features, such as a tarp with built-in mesh panels for drainage. These are good for regions with heavy rain or snow.

• Pros: Versatile, handles weather changes.
• Cons: Usually more expensive than basic tarps.

Comparing Cover Types

Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the main cover options:

Key insight: Many owners don’t realize custom-fit or hybrid covers can be made for almost any pool shape, including those with decks, corners, or steps. A custom cover isn’t just a luxury; it can save you hours of frustration.

Measuring Your Pool For A Perfect Fit

Before buying any cover, you need exact measurements. Here’s how to do it right:

• Measure Pool Diameter or Length/Width: For round pools, measure across the widest point. For oval or rectangular pools, measure length and width.
• Mark Deck Areas: Draw a simple diagram of your pool and deck. Mark where the deck starts and ends around the pool edge.
• Measure Deck Overhang: Note how far the deck sticks out over the pool. This will affect how the cover fits.
• Check for Obstacles: Look for ladders, rails, or other items that stick out. Measure their location from the pool edge.
• Add Extra for Overlap: Most covers need to overlap the pool edge by 12–18 inches. Add this to your measurements.
• Take Photos: If ordering a custom cover, photos help the manufacturer understand your setup.

Pro tip: Don’t trust the “standard size” listed on packaging. Many covers run small. Always measure your actual pool, not just what’s on the box.

Choosing The Right Cover For Your Partial Deck

Now that you have your measurements, it’s time to choose. Consider these factors:

• Climate: If you live where winters are harsh, a strong winter cover is a must. For mild climates, a solar or mesh cover may be enough.
• Budget: Tarp covers are cheap, but may need replacing every year. Custom or safety covers cost more, but last 5–10 years.
• Use: Do you want to swim during the off-season? Solar covers let you heat and swim longer. Winter covers are for closing the pool completely.
• Safety: If you have kids or pets, a safety cover is worth the investment.
• Ease of Use: Some covers are heavy and hard to install. Look for options with a roller or reel if you need to take the cover on and off often.

Common mistake: Owners often buy a cover that’s too small, thinking it will “stretch.” In fact, a tight cover can tear or slip off, especially with a partial deck.

How To Cover An Above Ground Pool With A Partial Deck: Step-by-step

Ready to cover your pool? Here’s a clear, practical process that works for most setups. We’ll focus on a tarp or custom cover, as these are the most common.

1. Clean And Prep The Pool

• Remove debris: Skim leaves, bugs, and dirt from the water.
• Balance chemicals: Shock the pool and adjust pH to prevent algae over winter.
• Lower water level: If using a solid cover, lower the water 3–6 inches below the skimmer to prevent damage.

Tip: Never drain your above ground pool completely—it can collapse.

2. Remove Accessories

• Take out ladders, floats, and toys.
• Remove or secure any steps or handrails that might tear the cover.

3. Place The Cover

• Unfold the cover on the ground next to your pool.
• With help, lift and pull the cover across the pool, starting on the open (non-deck) side.

If Using A Tarp Cover:

• Drape the cover so it overlaps the pool edge by at least 12 inches all around.

If Using A Custom Cover:

• Align cutouts or special shapes with your deck and any obstacles.

4. Secure The Cover

This is where the partial deck changes things.

On The Open Side:

• Use the included cable and winch (or bungee cords) to tighten the cover under the pool rim.
• For extra hold, use cover clips every 1–2 feet.

At The Deck:

• Tuck the cover edge under the deck if possible.
• If the deck is flush with the pool top, use water bags—long, heavy plastic tubes filled with water—to weigh the cover down along the deck edge.
• Attach the cover to deck posts or railings using bungee cords, zip ties, or special deck anchors.

For Large Gaps:

• Use pool noodles or foam tubes to fill any space between the deck and cover. This keeps wind from lifting the cover and stops leaves from blowing under.

5. Add Weights Or Water Bags

• Place water bags or sandbags along the deck edge and on the cover where needed. Don’t use bricks or sharp items that could rip the material.

6. Check And Adjust

• Walk around the pool. Make sure the cover is tight and even, with no big wrinkles or sagging areas.
• Adjust straps, cords, or weights as needed.

7. Secure The Skimmer And Return

• For winterizing, use a skimmer cover plate or plug. This prevents water from entering and freezing in the skimmer.

Insider tip: Pool pros often drill small holes in the deck edge (if wood) and use removable eye bolts. Bungee cords can then clip to these eye bolts, holding the cover tight without damage.

8. Inspect Regularly

• After storms or high winds, check the cover. Tighten, adjust, or remove water as needed to keep it in place.

Credit: www.thepoolfactory.com

Advanced Solutions For Difficult Deck Shapes

Some decks are L-shaped, have steps, or cover half the pool. Here’s how to handle these:

Custom Safety Covers

Many companies can make a custom safety cover with reinforced cutouts for ladders, steps, or deck sections. These covers use strong anchors drilled into the deck or ground. The fit is tight and secure, and some can even support the weight of a child or pet.

Diy Patch Kits

If your deck covers just part of the pool, you can buy a large cover and cut it to fit. Use heavy-duty scissors and reinforce the cut edge with duct tape or a sewing kit designed for tarps. Attach using bungees or custom-made straps.

Deck Skirt

Add a removable “skirt” of tarp or mesh along the deck edge. This can hang down to block leaves and debris. Attach with Velcro or snap buttons for easy removal.

Rollers And Reels

For solar covers or lightweight tarps, a cover roller mounted to the deck makes removal and installation much easier. These are especially helpful if you need to open and close the pool often.

Non-obvious insight: Many owners forget to check for electrical or plumbing lines under their deck before installing anchors. Always check with a professional if you’re unsure.

Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them

Covering a pool with a partial deck isn’t always easy. Watch out for these errors:

• Buying the wrong size: Always measure your actual pool and deck, not just the listed size.
• Ignoring wind: Partial decks can funnel wind under the cover. Use extra weights or anchors to prevent lifting.
• Using bricks or stones: These can rip your cover or damage the pool liner if they fall in.
• Not checking after storms: Heavy rain or snow can cause covers to sag or tear if not cleared.
• Skipping winterizing steps: Always balance chemicals, lower water, and protect plumbing before covering.

Practical Tips For Success

• Mark anchor points with tape or chalk before drilling or attaching anything permanent.
• Store your cover in a dry, cool place when not in use to prevent mildew.
• Check warranty before cutting or modifying any cover—some warranties are voided by alteration.
• For large or heavy covers, ask a friend for help—it’s safer and faster.
• If you use a cover pump to remove rainwater, keep the power cord away from the pool for safety.

Maintenance And Seasonal Considerations

A cover isn’t “set it and forget it.” Here’s how to keep things running smoothly all year:

During Fall

• Clear leaves and debris weekly to prevent buildup.
• Tighten straps and check weights after windy days.

During Winter

• Remove heavy snow after storms with a soft broom or cover pump.
• Check for ice or damage to straps.

During Spring

• Remove cover before water warms up to prevent algae.
• Clean and dry the cover before storing.

Data point: A well-maintained cover can increase your pool liner’s life by 3–5 years and cut chemical use by up to 50%.

Credit: www.toilesoleil.com

When To Upgrade Or Replace Your Cover

Covers wear out over time, especially with partial decks. Here’s when to consider an upgrade:

• If the cover has large tears, holes, or weak spots.
• If it no longer fits well due to deck modifications.
• If you need better safety (kids, pets, or new local rules).
• If you want easier installation or removal.

Example: If your deck was expanded after you bought your last cover, a custom-fit or hybrid model will work better and look more professional.

Cost Breakdown: What To Expect

Let’s look at what you might spend on different cover types for a typical 24-foot round above ground pool with a partial deck:

Non-obvious insight: Spending more upfront on a custom or safety cover often saves money over time. Frequent replacement of cheap tarps quickly adds up.

Credit: www.toilesoleil.com

Real-life Example: Covering A 24-foot Pool With A Side Deck

Imagine you have a 24-foot round above ground pool with a 12-foot partial deck on one side. Here’s how you’d cover it:

• Measure the pool and deck, noting the deck covers 1/3 of the pool’s edge.
• Order a custom-fit cover with a reinforced edge and cutouts for the deck posts.
• Install deck anchors (if allowed) or use water bags along the deck.
• Use the cable and winch system for the rest of the pool, securing every 2 feet.
• Check after storms and adjust as needed.

This setup keeps your pool clean, safe, and looking neat, with minimal effort each season.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Keep Wind From Lifting My Pool Cover With A Partial Deck?

Wind is a big challenge for partial decks. The best solution is to use extra weights (like water bags or sandbags) along the deck edge and to fill any gaps with foam noodles or pool pillows. Secure the cover to deck posts with bungee cords or zip ties. Always check after storms and tighten as needed.

Can I Cut A Pool Cover To Fit Around My Deck?

Yes, but only certain covers. Tarp and mesh covers can be trimmed with heavy-duty scissors, but always reinforce the cut edge with duct tape or a tarp repair kit. Avoid cutting solar covers unless the manufacturer says it’s okay. Never cut a safety cover without professional advice, as it could lose its safety rating.

What’s The Safest Cover Option For Homes With Pets Or Kids?

A custom safety cover is the safest choice. These attach with strong anchors and are rated to support the weight of a child or pet. For partial decks, order a cover with reinforced cutouts and have it installed by a pro if possible. Always supervise kids and pets near any pool, even when covered.

How Often Should I Check My Pool Cover In Winter?

Check your cover at least once a week during winter. Remove heavy snow, clear off leaves, and tighten straps or weights if needed. After big storms, check as soon as it’s safe. Regular checks prevent damage and help your cover last longer.

Are There Professional Services That Can Help With Installation?

Yes, many pool stores or contractors offer cover installation services for above ground pools with partial decks. They can measure, order a custom cover, and install anchors or weights safely. This is a good choice for tricky deck shapes or if you want a long-lasting, professional look. To find a reliable service, check resources like SwimmingPool.com.

Covering an above ground pool with a partial deck is a challenge, but with careful planning, the right materials, and a few smart tricks, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, safer, and longer-lasting pool. With these steps, you can protect your investment and enjoy peace of mind—season after season.