If your above ground pool is oval, you'll want to measure the length from end to end in the center of the pool and the width at 2 or 3 points. Then, take the average width of your measurements. Again, measure the length and width from one inner wall to the other inside wall to get the correct measurement. Measure your pool from the inner edge to the inner edge to know the diameter or dimensions LxW of your pool.
In winter, pool covers from The Swim have a built-in overlay that fits a pool of a certain size even after the water level drops for winter. When choosing a cover, you look for it by the ACTUAL SIZE of your pool. The cover you receive will be larger than your pool by 3 or 4 feet (depending on the cover you order and varies by manufacturer). For example, if your pool is 24 foot round, you should choose that size and choose one of the covers listed on that page.
The actual deck size will be 28 feet round for a 24 foot diameter pool. In other words, set your points A and B along the side of the pool, then measure up to points around the edge of the pool (about 25-30 points), then measure up to each existing anchor, first from point A and then from point B. So, use measurements A-B and measure the pool and step, and also measure up to one point for each one existing anchor. Mesh covers can also contribute to additional algae growth in the pool, requiring earlier opening dates or additional chemicals.
The up arrow lines represent the measurement needed to determine the size of an oval above ground pool. This step involves measuring how much the characteristics of the pool will affect your deck, which will need to be adjusted around these elements. Pool safety covers are a very different type of cover available for underground pools or for above ground pools that are completely surrounded by a pool terrace. Above ground pools use a cable and winch to secure the cover around the top rail of the pool, while in-ground pools use water bags or water blocks as weights to keep the cover on the pool deck.
The downside is that you'll spend more time vacuuming your pool in the spring, while a solid cover requires you to pump surface water regularly. For freeform pool shapes, purchase the rectangular cover that fits the widest width and the longest length. A properly fitted and installed pool cover will prevent leaves and debris from falling into the pool, discourage algae growth, and can prevent children, adults and animals from falling into the pool (or taking a cold dip) when the pool is not in use. Safety covers for in-ground pools also have a built-in overlap; a 16 ft x 32 ft safety cover actually measures 18 ft x 34 ft.
Pool covers are an essential piece of pool equipment that protects your pool when you are not using it. Regardless of how you take your measurements, double-check them for accuracy to make sure they are consistent.
