Everything you need to know about covering an above ground pool for winter with H&H Pools Services.

Everything You Need to Know About How to Cover Above Ground Pool for Winter

Learn how to cover above ground pool for winter the right way. Protect your pool from ice, debris, and damage with this step-by-step guide.

As temperatures begin to drop and swimming season comes to an end, every pool owner starts to wonder how to cover above ground pool for winter properly. Doing this the right way keeps your pool safe from snow, ice, and debris — and makes opening it next spring much easier.

For homeowners across Chesterfield, Kirkwood, Ladue, St. Charles, and nearby areas, getting your pool ready for cold weather is one of the smartest steps you can take before winter sets in. Doing so not only protects your investment but also helps you avoid costly repairs and time-consuming cleanups once warmer weather returns.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from choosing the best type of pool cover to securing it properly and keeping it in top shape all season long.

If you haven’t scheduled your closing yet, check out our Top Tips for Scheduling a Pool Closing Service Early to plan ahead before the first freeze hits.

Why You Should Cover Your Pool for Winter

Winter can be tough on an uncovered pool. As the temperatures fall, water freezes and expands. This might not seem like a big deal, but that expansion can put pressure on your pool walls, liner, and plumbing. When water freezes inside pipes or fittings, it can cause cracks or leaks that are costly to repair.

Beyond freezing, an uncovered pool is exposed to windblown leaves, sticks, and dirt. Over time, this debris can stain the liner, clog your system, and make spring cleaning a headache.

A good winter pool cover solves these problems. It prevents debris from falling in, helps control algae growth, and shields your pool from harsh weather. It’s like putting a protective lid on your pool that keeps it clean and safe during the months you’re not using it.

If you live in an area where temperatures regularly dip below freezing or where leaf fall is heavy, using a pool winter cover isn’t optional — it’s essential. Taking this simple step can mean the difference between an easy spring opening and several weeks of extra work and repairs.

Choosing the Right Pool Cover

Comparison of mesh, solid, and above-ground winter pool covers showing how each protects pools from rain, snow, and debris.

 

Not all covers are created equal, and the right one can make all the difference in how well your pool holds up over winter. Here’s what to know when choosing your cover:

Mesh Covers

Mesh covers are lightweight, easy to handle, and ideal for homeowners who want a simple solution. They allow rainwater and melted snow to drain through, preventing puddles from forming on top. However, since mesh lets some fine particles through, you might need to do a quick vacuum when you reopen your pool in spring.

Solid Covers

Solid covers block everything, sunlight, water, and debris. They’re perfect if you want your pool to stay spotless through winter. The trade-off is that you’ll need a small pump to remove rainwater or melted snow from the top.

Above Ground Winter Pool Covers

These are specifically designed for above ground pools. They usually secure tightly around the edge with clips or a cable and winch system. When properly installed, they stay firm against wind, ice, and snow, keeping your pool fully protected.

The right cover for your pool depends on your location, the amount of debris you get, and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with.

Prepare Your Pool Before Covering

Before you put on your cover, spend some time preparing your pool. This step determines how clean and easy your reopening will be in spring.

 Remove leaves, sticks, and debris using a skimmer or leaf rake. Brush the walls and floor to eliminate dirt and algae. A clean pool at closing means clearer water when you reopen it.

Test and adjust the pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels. Balanced water prevents corrosion and staining on pool surfaces and equipment.

Add chlorine or a winter algaecide to keep the water clear during the cold months. These chemicals prevent algae blooms and bacteria buildup.

Take out ladders, floats, cleaners, and hoses. Anything left in the pool can freeze or stain the liner.

By doing these simple steps, you make sure your pool stays in good condition beneath your above ground pool cover all winter long.

Step-by-Step: How to Cover Above Ground Pool for Winter

Now that your pool is clean and balanced, it’s time for the most important part — actually covering it. Follow these steps to do it right:

Lower the Water Level

Drain the water until it’s about three to four inches below the skimmer opening. This prevents water from freezing in the skimmer and damaging it.

Place an air pillow or inflatable float in the center of the pool before covering it. This helps distribute pressure from snow and ice evenly and prevents the pool walls from bulging.

 

Lay your above ground pool cover flat over the pool, making sure it reaches all the edges evenly. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds so it sits snugly.

Use a cable and winch system, or cover clips, to tighten it around the edge of the pool. It should be firm but not overly tight — just enough to prevent the wind from loosening it.

If your backyard has a lot of trees, consider placing a leaf net over your pool winter cover. Once all the leaves have fallen, you can remove the net easily without disturbing the main cover.

Even after your pool is covered, keep an eye on it throughout the season. Remove standing water or heavy snow from the top, and check that the cover is still tight.

Preventing Winter Damage

Even with the best cover, winter can bring surprises. The key is staying proactive.

  • Clear Snow and Ice Early: Use a soft broom or cover pump to remove buildup.

  • Check Tightness: Wind can loosen the edges, so inspect and tighten them if needed.

  • Watch for Ice Pressure: If the ice starts to push on the pool walls or cover, carefully relieve the weight.

  • Use Air Pillows: They help relieve pressure from freezing water and protect your liner and frame.

For more safety and care advice, read our Guide to Winterize Pool: How Long Should You Run Your Pump? — it covers ways to protect your pool from cold-weather stress.

Caring for Your Pool Cover Long-Term

Your pool cover protects your pool all season, so it’s worth taking care of it.

  • Clean It in Spring: When you remove your cover, clean it with mild soap and water. Let it dry completely before storage.

  • Store Properly: Keep it in a dry place away from sharp objects or sunlight.

  • Inspect for Wear: Check for tears, fraying cables, or broken clips, and repair them before using it again.

  • Replace When Needed: Even durable above ground pool covers wear out after several years. Investing in a new one when it starts to weaken is worth it for peace of mind.

Man cleaning and folding a pool cover to prepare for winter, showing proper pool cover maintenance and care.


When spring arrives, continue your care routine with our Spring Pool Maintenance Tips for a Healthy and Long-Lasting Pool for a smooth seasonal transition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced pool owners can make mistakes during closing. Avoid these common issues:

  • Forgetting to clean or balance the water before covering.

  • Using a cover that’s too small or poorly secured.

  • Skipping inspections during heavy snow or wind.

  • Letting water or leaves collect on the cover for too long.

  • Ignoring small tears or loose clips.


Avoiding these mistakes keeps your winter pool cover strong and effective all season.

Local Tips for Missouri Pool Owners

In Missouri, fall weather can change quickly, so timing matters. The best time to cover your pool is before the first hard freeze, typically in late October or early November.

Homeowners in Chesterfield, Kirkwood, Ladue, and Webster Groves often experience heavy leaf fall, so adding a leaf net on top of your winter pool cover can save hours of cleanup.

If you’re in St. Charles, Town & Country, or other open areas with strong winds, make sure your cover cables and clips are tight and secure.

Want to make your backyard more enjoyable even during the colder months? Explore our Outdoor Living Space Renovations – Firepits & Kitchens in St. Louis for inspiration on how to create a cozy outdoor setup that pairs perfectly with your winter-ready pool.

Ready to Cover Your Above Ground Pool for Winter?

Learning how to cover above ground pool for winter is not difficult. It is all about taking simple steps consistently. A secure, well-fitted winter pool cover protects your pool, prevents damage, and makes reopening next spring quick and easy.

When the warm weather returns, follow our Complete Guide to Opening a Pool After Winter to get your pool ready for another great season. Taking the time now to prepare means you will spend less time fixing problems later and more time enjoying your backyard oasis.

For professional help or seasonal maintenance, schedule your pool closing or inspection with H&H Pools before the next cold front hits. Your pool will be protected, safe, and waiting for sunny days ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Lower it three to four inches below the skimmer opening to prevent freeze damage.

 It’s not recommended. Without a cover, debris and ice can damage your liner, walls, and equipment.

 Both mesh and solid covers work well. Mesh covers allow drainage, while solid covers block sunlight and keep your pool cleaner.

Inspect your winter pool cover every few weeks and after storms to clear off snow and water buildup.

Yes. It helps distribute pressure and prevents the cover from sagging under the weight of snow and ice.