Which Pool Cover Is Right For You

Choosing the right pool cover is essential for safety, maintenance, and optimising your pool space.

With several types available, it can be difficult to determine which is best for your needs. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to make the most of your pool space or a business preparing for events, the right pool cover can completely transform how you use your pool area.

Below, we explore three common options: soft pool covers, hard pool covers, and the Pool-dek system.

Soft Pool Covers

What it is: Soft pool covers are typically made from vinyl, foam or mesh materials and are stretched over the pool using straps or weights. They are lightweight and relatively inexpensive.

Why it would be used: Soft covers are mainly used to keep debris out of the pool and to reduce evaporation and heat loss. They’re suitable for short-term, basic protection and are easy to apply and remove. However, they don’t offer any functional use of the pool space while covered and may not be strong enough to prevent accidents involving children or pets.

Hard Pool Covers

What it is: Hard pool covers are solid panels or slats that can be manually or automatically placed over the pool. They are usually made from polycarbonate, aluminium, or reinforced PVC.

Why it would be used: Hard covers provide more robust protection and safety than soft covers. They can support more weight and are more resistant to weather and wear. However, while they are safer and more durable, they are not designed to be walked on or used as an extension of living or event space.

Pool-dek System

What it is: Pool-dek is a unique and innovative system made from stainless steel frames with adjustable feet and water-resistant deck panels. Unlike other pool covers, Pool-dek creates a stable, solid surface that completely transforms the pool area into usable floor space.

Why it would be used: Pool-dek is ideal for both permanent and temporary transformations of indoor or outdoor pools. It’s perfect for turning an underused or seasonal pool into a multi-functional area for entertaining, relaxing, or even hosting large-scale events. It can be installed permanently to reclaim living space or rented for one-off business or private functions.

Why Pool-dek Is the Best Choice

When comparing all the available options, Pool-dek stands out as the most versatile and premium solution. Unlike traditional soft and hard covers, Pool-dek offers more than just protection — it creates opportunity.

Benefits of Pool-dek:

  • Converts your pool into a dry, usable space without draining the water
  • Provides a safe, solid surface ideal for walking, dancing, dining or placing furniture
  • Customisable with Flush Fitting or Oversail edging systems to suit your aesthetic
  • Water-resistant and slip-resistant panels keep the area clean and dry
  • Compact wheeled storage fits through a standard single doorway
  • Built to last using stainless steel and durable materials

Applications:

  • Residential: Turn a rarely used pool into a children’s play area, outdoor gym, patio or dining space.
  • Commercial: Use for events, weddings, receptions, or corporate gatherings.

Available to Buy:

Pool-dek is available to purchase for those looking for a permanent pool cover solution. Suitable for both commercial and residential settings, it can be installed in event venues, hotels, schools and private homes to create a practical, versatile space over an existing pool.

If you’re looking for a simple and cost-effective way to keep your pool clean, a soft cover might suffice. For added safety and durability, a hard cover is a better option. But for those who want to transform their pool into a usable, multifunctional space with long-term value, the Pool-dek system is unrivalled. Its combination of practicality, design, and flexibility makes it the best swimming pool cover choice for both homes and businesses.

We first approached Pool-dek (supplied by Stage Systems) for a unique opportunity at the summit of Victoria Peak on Hong Kong Island, one of the world’s most exclusive residential developments.

The ambition was to achieve a flexible landscape, to entertain large groups of family and friends, as well as enjoying the more intimate environment of the swimming pool. We developed a design which incorporated a hard floor pool cover to match the adjacent natural paving, and to celebrate the unique waterfront views towards Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour.

The Pool-dek team remained in communication throughout the project and provided great design, technical support, delivery and installation.

Mark Blackwell CMLI FRSA Creative Director | Chartered Landscape Architect at Morphis Design

Take your first step to discover your unique space. Call us today on 01509 611021 (all calls are recorded)

  • Proven ROI on your Pool-dek
  • Easy and quick installation
  • Dedicated project manager