Pool Mate 18 ft Extra Strength Platinum Pool Cover, Sandstone-Coated Heavy-Duty Winter Protection

Pool Mate 18 ft Extra Strength Platinum Pool Cover is a solid, heavy-duty winter cover designed to protect 18-foot round above-ground pools from snow, ice and debris throughout the off-season.

When closing an above-ground pool for winter you want a cover that stays in place, sheds weather, and keeps the water clean until spring. This Pool Mate Platinum cover is an extra strength, non-porous polyethylene winter cover with a coated sandstone top and reinforced seams. It includes a winch and cable and provides a four-foot overlap for easier installation and better fit on traditional above-ground pools with standard top rails.

How durable is this Pool Mate winter cover?

The cover is built from extra heavy-duty polyethylene, woven with a 12 x 12 scrim and weighing about 3.7 ounces per square yard (125 g/m²). Seams are heat-sealed and the topside receives a coating to resist UV degradation, increasing seasonal lifespan. Pool Mate rates this model 85% heavier than industry standard and backs it with a 15-year warranty.

• 12 x 12 scrim weave for tear resistance
• 3.7 oz/yd² (125 g/m²) material weight for strength
• Heat-sealed seams to prevent failure at joins
• UV-coated sandstone top to limit sun damage

Will this cover keep water out and hold up in winter weather?

This is a solid (non-permeable) winter cover, so water from snow or rain will not pass through the fabric into the pool. Designed for snow and ice loads, it floats on the water with a recommended loose fit; use ice equalizer pillows (sold separately) and water bags on decks where appropriate. The included winch and cable secure the perimeter through grommets to resist wind uplift.

• Solid construction prevents water penetration
• Floatable design reduces stress on material during freeze/thaw
• Winch and cable included for perimeter tensioning
• Recommended supplemental weights for decks and heavy snow

How do I choose the right size and install it properly?

Select the cover by the pool diameter listed; this 18 ft cover includes a 4 ft overlap (22 ft total including overlap) so it’s easier to position. If your pool has an especially large top rail or an elevated deck, consider sizing up for a comfortable float with minimal stress. Install the cover over the pool, thread the cable through the grommets, and use the winch to tighten; for decks, place vinyl water weights on top of the cover and route cable under the deck when possible.

• Order by listed pool size; 18 ft cover includes 4 ft overlap
• Consider larger size for oversized top rails or bulky fittings
• Use winch and cable through grommets for secure fit
• Apply water weights on decks; route cable under deck if feasible

What maintenance and accessories work best with this cover?

Store the cover clean and dry when not in use to extend life; brush off heavy snow rather than letting loads accumulate. Pool Mate suggests using cover clips, cover wrap, and vinyl water weights (sold separately) for added security. Ice equalizer pillows help minimize ice stress; avoid using this cover as a season-long debris cover while swimming.

• Remove debris and brush off heavy snow periodically
• Use cover clips and wrap for extra anchoring if needed
• Employ ice equalizer pillows to reduce ice pressure
• Store dry and folded when not in use to prevent mildew

This Pool Mate cover is intended for owners of traditional above-ground round pools who want a solid winter barrier that resists wind, snow and UV damage. It’s suited to pools with standard top rails, homeowners in cold climates who need a non-permeable cover, and anyone preferring a longer-lasting, warranty-backed option for seasonal pool closure.