Pool Mate 18 x 36 ft Winter Pool Cover — Azure Blue Solid Non‑Permeable, 5' Overlap

The Pool Mate 18 x 36 ft Basic Value Line Winter Pool Cover is a solid, non-permeable azure-blue cover designed to protect inground pools through the off-season.

Built to shelter your pool from snow, ice and debris, this Pool Mate winter cover is a simple, durable barrier for 18 x 36 ft inground pools. It includes a generous five-foot overlap beyond the pool dimensions, UV-coated topside, perimeter loops for water weights (sold separately), and a polyethylene woven scrim construction intended to resist tearing and seasonal wear. The cover is intended for winter use only and is designed to float loosely on the water when properly installed.

How does this cover keep my pool safe over winter?

The cover is a solid, impermeable sheet that prevents water, leaves and large debris from entering the pool. Its construction reduces the need for frequent winter skimming and helps minimize contaminants in your water before reopening.

• Solid polyethylene material blocks rain and debris from passing through.
• UV-coated azure blue topside to resist sun degradation during exposure.
• Designed to hold snow and ice loads while protecting the basin underneath.
• Includes sewn-in loops for water weights that secure the cover perimeter.

Will this fit my 18 x 36 ft inground pool and how does the overlap work?

This model is sized for pools listed as 18 x 36 ft and provides a five-foot overlap of material beyond those dimensions to simplify placement and anchoring. Measure any protrusions—steps, benches or ledges—and consider sizing up if those features extend beyond the pool edge so the cover can float freely without stress.

• Nominal pool size: 18 x 36 ft; total cover size including overlap: 23 x 41 ft.
• Five-foot overlap reduces trimming and makes positioning easier.
• Order the next size up if pool steps or irregular shapes extend past the rim.
• Excess material should be folded under water weights to avoid deck wear.

What is this cover made of and how durable is it?

The Basic Value Line cover uses a woven polyethylene fabric with a 7 x 7 scrim and a material weight of about 2.2 ounces per square yard (74 g/m²). Pool Mate strengthens this design slightly above industry norm and backs it with an eight-year warranty to reflect expected seasonal performance.

• Woven 7 x 7 scrim provides dimensional stability and tear resistance.
• Material weight 2.2 oz/yd² (74 g/m²) for basic-season durability.
• Manufactured about 10% heavier than industry standard for added reliability.
• 8-year warranty from Pool Mate for covered defects and workmanship.

How should I install and maintain the winter cover?

Installation relies on vinyl water weights threaded through sewn loops around the cover perimeter—water weights are sold separately and are the recommended anchoring method. The cover should float with minimal tension; avoid pulling it taut and pad exposed corners where the cover contacts hard deck edges.

• Only use vinyl water weights to secure the cover—other methods are not recommended.
• Cover should rest loosely on the water; too-tight installation can stress seams.
• Fold excess material under weights; pad areas that touch sharp corners or decking.
• Not intended for use as a debris cover during the swim season—designed for off-season protection.

Who is this for? Pool owners with a standard 18 x 36 ft inground pool who need an affordable, straightforward winter covering solution will find this Pool Mate Basic Value Line cover suitable. It’s ideal if you want a solid, UV-coated cover with ample overlap, sewn loops for water weights, and a long manufacturer warranty without the higher cost of heavy-duty commercial covers. If your pool has significant protrusions, custom features, or you prefer a breathable debris-style cover for year-round use, consider a different model or size up to ensure a proper fit.