1. About Designer Pool Covers
Who We Are: Designer Pool Covers has been a leader in the pool cover industry since 2012. With over 13 years of specialized experience, we have established ourselves as trendsetters in both automatic and manual pool cover solutions in South Africa.
What We Do: We specialize in the design, integration, and installation of custom-made pool covers for all types of pools—residential, commercial, indoor, and outdoor. Our range includes slatted automatic covers, hydraulic vinyl safety covers, and manual solutions.
Our Mission & Brand Promise: Our mission is to make premium pool cover technology accessible to every South African pool owner. Our brand promise is "Premium solutions without premium barriers," ensuring no family has to choose between safety, beauty, and affordability.
We operate throughout Cape Town and the Western Cape with local expertise.
Operating Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm | Saturday: By appointment
2. Pool Cover Benefits
Safety First
Safety is our primary concern. Our covers act as a horizontal fence, sealing off the pool completely to prevent accidental access by children, pets, or uninvited visitors. They are tamper-proof, durable, and meet international safety standards (ASTM F1346) and SABS SANS 10134:2016.
Economic Benefits
Installing a pool cover provides significant cost savings:
- Water Savings: Reduces water evaporation by up to 95%.
- Chemical Savings: Reduces chemical usage by up to 70%.
- Energy Savings: Lowers heating costs by 60-70% by retaining heat.
- Annual Savings: Up to R9,600+ per year for the average pool.
Cleanliness & Maintenance
Our covers keep dirt, leaves, and debris out of your pool. This means less time spent cleaning and skimming, and your pool remains crystal clear and swim-ready all year round. Some options also manage rainwater effectively.
Versatility
We offer custom sizing and various installation options (above ground, below ground, rim flow) to fit most pool shapes and sizes, ensuring perfect integration with your pool's aesthetics.
3. Product Range FAQs
A. PoolDeck Slatted Automatic Covers
What are PoolDeck Slatted Covers and how do they work?
PoolDeck covers are elegant, automated covers made of floating slats that unroll across the water surface. They are operated easily with a key switch or button press.
What material and color options are available?
We offer high-quality PVC and Polycarbonate slats. Colors: Transparent Blue, Dark Blue, Grey, Blue PVC, and Grey PVC.
What are the installation options?
- Below Ground: Mechanism hidden in a wet pit (best for new builds).
- Above Ground: Mechanism housed in a bench (great for existing pools).
- Rim Flow: Integrated for overflow pools.
- Martini Bench Seat: Cover retracts from a bench seat inside the pool.
B. PoolLock Hydraulic Vinyl Cover
Why is this considered the "Ultimate Safety Cover"?
The PoolLock system uses a robust vinyl fabric running in tracks that can support up to 250kg per m². It creates a complete seal, preventing any access to the water.
How does the hydraulic system work?
It uses a "direct drive" hydraulic motor. Crucially, the electrical power pack is located away from the pool (near the pump), meaning there is no electricity near the water. It opens/closes in under 60 seconds.
C. Child & Pet Safety Covers
How does the Child & Pet Safety Cover work?
This cover uses aluminum battens supported across the pool, secured into durable PVC material (600-700 gsm). It is tensioned using stainless steel ratchets, allowing it to support up to 150kg.
Is it tamper-proof?
Yes. The tensioning system and overlap (approx. 300mm) make it impossible for a child or pet to crawl under or release the cover.
D. Thermal Blankets (GeoBubble)
What types of thermal blankets do you offer?
- Sol+Guard: Light Blue, 500 microns. Heats pool up to 10°C.
- Standard: Dark Blue, 400 microns. Heats pool up to 8°C.
- EnergyGuard: Grey/Black, 500 microns. Inhibits algae growth and heats up to 7°C.
4. Installation & Customization
Custom Sizing: We custom manufacture covers to fit almost any pool shape and size.
New vs. Existing Pools: While some systems (like recessed tracks) are best installed during construction, we have excellent options for existing pools, such as Top Track systems and Above Ground benches.
Timeline: Installation timelines vary based on complexity and customization. Standard installations are typically completed within 1-2 days.
Finishes: We offer various lid systems (tiling, decking, steel) to ensure the mechanism blends seamlessly with your poolside coping.
5. Safety & Compliance
- Standards: Our safety covers are designed to comply with international safety standard ASTM F1346 and SABS SANS 10134:2016.
- Certification: We are NSPI accredited members.
- Layers of Protection: We recommend multiple layers of security. A cover is the best primary barrier, but proper adult supervision is irreplaceable.
- Weight Support: Our safety covers can support 150kg - 250kg depending on the model, ensuring that if a child or pet wanders onto it, they remain safe and dry.
6. Maintenance & Service
Professional Servicing: Like a car, your automatic pool cover has moving mechanical parts that require regular maintenance to ensure longevity and reliability.
Lifespan: With proper care, vinyl covers and slat systems can last 10-15 years. The hydraulic drive system is particularly durable as it is not sensitive to water damage.
Support: We offer comprehensive after-sales support and service throughout Cape Town to keep your cover in peak condition.
7. Pricing & Ordering
Custom Quotes: Because every pool is different (size, shape, obstacles), all our covers are quoted individually.
Factors Affecting Price: Pool dimensions, type of cover (manual vs. automatic), installation type (tracks, recess), and optional extras (color upgrades, benches).
Process: Contact us for a free consultation. We will assess your pool and provide a detailed quote that includes manufacturing and professional installation.
8. Common Questions
Can covers be installed on existing pools?
Yes, we have multiple top-track and above-ground mechanism options specifically designed for retrofitting existing pools without major construction.
Can I operate the cover myself?
Yes. Automatic covers are operated via key or button. Manual covers are designed for easy one-person operation with a crank handle.
How do covers handle rain water?
Our vinyl safety covers typically have drainage holes or pumps to manage rainwater accumulation. The Child & Pet safety cover has drainage holes between poles.
Do you service Cape Town and surrounding areas?
Yes! We serve all of Cape Town and the Western Cape, including Atlantic Seaboard, Southern Suburbs, Northern Suburbs, City Bowl, Somerset West, and beyond.
Can I upgrade from manual to automatic later?
Yes! Our manual systems are designed as a "stepping stone" to automation. The manual mechanism can be replaced with a hydraulic motor and power pack at a later stage.
Technical Specifications Comparison
| Feature | PoolLock Hydraulic | PoolDeck Slatted | Child/Pet Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operation | Automatic (Hydraulic) | Automatic (Electric) | Manual (Ratchet) |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 250kg / m² | Depends on Ledge | Up to 150kg |
| Opening Speed | < 60 Seconds | Variable | Manual |
| Safety Rating | Ultimate | High (with ledge) | High |
Still Have Questions?
Our team is ready to help you find the perfect pool cover solution for your Cape Town home. Get a free consultation and personalized quote.