How much does a swimming pool cover cost in Australia?

Quick Answer: Pool cover costs in Australia vary greatly, ranging from $500 to $20,000+, depending upon various factors and pool cover options.

Understanding pool cover costs can feel overwhelming, especially with the various options available today. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about pool cover pricing, helping you make an informed decision for your investment.

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Why Understanding Pool Cover Costs Is Important

Making an informed decision about pool covers requires understanding their true cost implications. Without proper research, homeowners often:

  • Choose cheaper options that don't meet their needs
  • Overlook long-term maintenance expenses
  • Miss out on potential energy savings
  • Fail to consider safety requirements
  • Make costly installation mistakes

A pool cover is a significant investment that affects your pool's functionality, safety, and running costs for years to come. Understanding the factors that influence pricing helps you make a confident, well-informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget.

What Determines the Cost of a Pool Cover?

Unlike many pool accessories, covers are not one-size-fits-all products. Each swimming pool has unique characteristics that influence the final cost. The primary factors affecting your pool cover investment include:

Pool Dimensions and Shape

Your pool's size and shape are the fundamental factors determining cost. Since manufacturers custom-make covers to fit specific pools, irregular shapes or larger dimensions will increase the price. For example, an L-shaped pool typically costs more to cover than a rectangular pool of similar square footage.

Pool Cover Types (Material/Quality)

1. Solar Pool Covers

Also known as bubble covers, solar pool covers are transparent plastic sheets made from polyethylene or polypropylene. Their distinctive bubble design traps heat and transfers solar energy into your pool water. While they're the most budget-friendly option starting around $500, they offer basic functionality and have a shorter lifespan compared to other covers. These covers excel at heat retention and reducing evaporation but provide minimal safety benefits.

Solar pool cover in blue

2. Thermal Pool Covers

Thermal covers utilise multi-layered foam material to provide superior insulation. Unlike solar covers, they don't actively heat the water but excel at maintaining temperature and blocking UV rays. Starting at approximately $500, they represent a middle-ground option offering better durability than solar covers while remaining relatively affordable. Their foam construction provides good insulation but may be more challenging to handle than other options.

Elite Pool Covers Thermal Shield

3. Premium Vinyl Pool Covers

These high-quality covers are manufactured using robust cross-woven polyester with PVC coating. They're UV-stabilised and typically include features like mould resistance and reinforced aluminium components. Premium vinyl covers can be installed either sitting above the water or touching it, depending on your preference. Starting at $1,000 for manual versions, they offer excellent durability and safety features. Their ability to completely seal the pool makes them particularly effective at keeping out debris.

4. Slatted Pool Covers

Known as the luxury option in pool covers, slatted covers are constructed from polycarbonate slats that provide both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. These covers are always automated and offer superior temperature regulation and evaporation control. While they represent the highest price point starting around $10,000, they combine elegant design with top-tier performance.

Aquaroll Rigid Slat automated pool cover on a pool

5. Walk-On Pool Covers

Specifically designed to support weight, walk-on covers provide the highest level of safety. They're constructed from reinforced materials that can support the weight of adults, making them ideal for families with children or pets. These covers typically feature a tight mesh design that prevents both debris and accidental submersion. While more expensive than standard covers, they offer unmatched safety benefits. These typically start around $1,000.

Protect your family

Pool Cover Type Key Considerations;

When selecting between these options remember to consider:

  • Your budget constraints
  • Primary use cases (safety, heat retention, debris prevention)
  • Available space around your pool
  • Desired aesthetic impact
  • Long-term maintenance requirements
  • Local climate conditions
  • Frequency of pool use

Remember that while initial costs vary significantly between types, the long-term value should factor into your decision. More expensive options typically offer better durability, lower maintenance costs, and enhanced safety features that may justify the higher upfront investment.

Operation Method

The way you open and close your cover significantly impacts cost:

Manual Operation: The most economical choice, requiring physical effort to cover and uncover the pool.

Semi-Automatic: Middle-range pricing, offering some mechanical assistance while still requiring some manual input.

Fully Automatic: The premium option, operating with just a key turn or button press. While the most expensive, it provides unmatched convenience and safety features.

Pool Cover Installation Considerations

When planning for a pool cover, the method of installation is a critical factor that influences both cost and functionality. The installation process differs depending on whether you’re adding a cover to an existing pool or incorporating it into new pool construction. Here’s a closer look at the considerations for each scenario.

Existing Pools

Adding a pool cover to an existing pool comes with unique challenges and costs. Here are the primary options to consider:

1. Above-Ground Installation

This is the simpler and more cost-effective option. The cover mechanism, such as a roller or reel, is installed above ground, typically at one end of the pool.

Advantages:

  • Minimal structural modifications required.
  • Faster installation process.
  • Ideal for retrofitting pools without major alterations.

Considerations:

  • May not blend seamlessly with the pool area’s aesthetics.
  • The mechanism might require additional space, which could be an issue in compact pool areas.

2. Concealed Installation: 

This involves installing the cover mechanism in a custom-built pit or behind a false wall to keep it hidden.

Advantages:

  • Enhances the pool area’s aesthetics by keeping the mechanism out of sight.
  • Offers a more polished and premium look.

Considerations:

  • Requires structural modifications, which may involve excavation or building additional structures.
  • Longer installation time and higher labour costs.

New Pool Construction

If you’re planning to build a pool, incorporating a pool cover from the start offers several advantages:

Flexibility in Design

  • Customisation: You have more options for seamlessly integrating the cover mechanism into the pool design, whether it’s concealed or partially visible.
  • Structural Integration: Necessary features like pits for concealed mechanisms or reinforced edges for above-ground systems can be included in the initial construction plans.

Potential Cost Savings

  • Reduced Labour Costs: Incorporating the pool cover during construction avoids the need for retrofitting or modifying an existing pool structure.
  • Streamlined Installation: Contractors can work on the pool and cover simultaneously, saving time and reducing logistical complexities.
  • While the initial cost of incorporating a pool cover during construction might still be substantial, it’s often more cost-effective than retrofitting a cover later.

Enhanced Aesthetics

  • A new pool with a built-in cover often appears more cohesive and visually appealing, as the cover system is designed to complement the overall pool structure.

Key Considerations for Both Scenarios

By weighing these considerations, you can choose an installation method that fits your pool’s needs and aligns with your budget and aesthetic preferences. Whether retrofitting an existing pool or incorporating a cover during construction, planning and professional guidance are key to a successful installation.

Understanding Pool Cover Warranties: Consumer Warranty vs Pro-Rata Warranty

When investing in a pool cover, understanding the warranty terms can help you protect your purchase and avoid unexpected costs. Most pool covers come with two types of warranties: a consumer warranty and a pro-rata warranty, each offering varying levels of coverage.

Consumer Warranty

  • Coverage Period: Typically lasts 2–3 years, during which the manufacturer covers 100% of the cost for defects or faults in materials or workmanship.
  • Coverage Exclusions: Damage caused by misuse or improper maintenance.

Pro-Rata Warranty

  • Coverage Period: This type of warranty is typically purchased after the consumer warranty expires and depends on the manufacturer and the product. Elite pool Covers offers pro-rata warranty for up to 5, 10 or even 12 years.
  • Coverage Exclusions:
    • Roller Burn: Leaving the pool cover unprotected on the roller can create a magnifying glass effect. The intense heat generated damages the cover in specific segments.
    • Chemical Burn: Excessive chlorine levels or improper pool chemistry can break down the cover material, causing it to deteriorate prematurely. Maintaining your pool’s pH is crucial. A pH level above 7.7–7.8 can begin to degrade the cover, reducing its lifespan. Ideally, keep the pH around 7.5 for optimal performance and longevity.

Tips to Maximise Your Pool Cover Warranty

  1. Use a Protective Cover for the Roller: Prevent roller burn by ensuring your pool cover is wrapped with its protective cover when not in use.
  2. Monitor Pool Chemistry Regularly: Test and balance chlorine levels and pH frequently to prevent chemical-related damage.
  3. Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Adhere to recommended maintenance practices to keep your warranty valid.

Understanding these warranty terms empowers you to protect your investment and avoid common pitfalls that may void coverage. By properly maintaining your pool cover, you’ll extend its lifespan and maximise the value of your purchase.

2025 Price Guide for Standard 8x4m Pool

To provide concrete reference points, here are current market prices for different cover types (including GST):

  • Solar Cover: From $500+
  • Thermal Cover: From $500+
  • Manual Premium Vinyl: From $1000+
  • Automatic Premium Vinyl: From $20500+
  • Automatic Slatted Cover: From $10000+
  • Walk-On Safety Cover: From $1000+

Maximising Your Pool Cover Investment

Consider these factors to ensure you choose the most cost-effective solution:

Long-Term Value: Higher-end covers often prove more economical over time through reduced maintenance costs and extended lifespan.

Energy Savings: Premium covers can significantly reduce heating costs and water evaporation, offsetting their higher initial investment.

Safety Benefits: Automatic covers provide superior safety features, potentially reducing insurance costs.

How To Get the Best Pool Cover Quote

To choose the right pool cover within your budget:

  1. Assess your primary needs (safety, maintenance reduction, heat retention)
  2. Measure your pool precisely
  3. Consider your long-term maintenance budget
  4. Factor in installation requirements
  5. Request quotes from suppliers

Remember that while initial costs are important, the total value includes factors like durability, energy savings, and maintenance reduction. A higher upfront investment often translates to better long-term value.

Get An Elite Pool Covers Quote Today

Need specific pricing for your pool? Elite Pool Covers are Australian leaders in swimming pool covers and roller technology. Give us a call on (08) 9240 2262 or request a personalised quote, to receive accurate pool cover pricing tailored to your unique requirements.

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