Question 1

Who is Designer Pool Covers?

Accepted Answer

Designer Pool Covers is South Africa's leading specialist in automatic and manual pool covers, founded in 2012 by Willem de Wet and Lorraine Webster. What started as a one-room home office in Germiston has grown into a national operation with branches in Johannesburg (Head Office), Cape Town, and KwaZulu-Natal. We've been industry leaders for over 14 years.

Question 2

What makes Designer Pool Covers different from other suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Most pool cover companies focus on one or two products. Designer Pool Covers is unique because we offer the widest range of pool cover products available from any single company in South Africa — from entry-level thermal blankets right through to fully automated hydraulic vinyl systems and slatted covers. As our founder says: "I'm not just there to put a safety net or blanket on a pool. I'm there to look at the lifestyle of the client and complement that."

Question 3

Does Designer Pool Covers operate nationwide?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we cover the entire country, with dedicated branches and technicians in Johannesburg (Head Office), Cape Town (covering Western Cape, Garden Route and Kimberley), KwaZulu-Natal, and Namibia. If you are in a region not listed, contact our Head Office — we will advise on the best way to serve you.

Question 4

What types of automated pool covers do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer six product categories: 1) Thermal Blankets (GeoBubble) for heat retention, 2) Child & Pet Safety Cover (PVC Canvas) supporting up to 150kg, 3) PoolLock Manual Vinyl (V5M Easy Glide) upgradeable to automatic, 4) PoolLock Hydraulic Automatic Vinyl - our ultimate safety cover with 250 kg/m² capacity, 5) Cover Pools Saf-T3 Electric Cover (button-operated), and 6) PoolDeck Slatted Cover - elegant polycarbonate or PVC interlocking slats.

Question 5

What is the difference between a safety cover and a thermal blanket?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most important distinctions: A thermal blanket is NOT a safety cover. It only retains heat and reduces evaporation — it cannot support the weight of a child or pet. A safety cover (vinyl track system, PVC canvas cover, or slatted cover with safety ledge) is designed to support significant weight, prevent unsupervised access, and act as a "horizontal fence" across your pool. When the cover is closed — it is locked.

Question 6

What is the PoolLock Hydraulic Vinyl cover and why is it the ultimate safety cover?

Accepted Answer

The PoolLock Hydraulic Vinyl cover is our flagship automated pool cover. Key features include: electric motor (Power Pack) located away from pool near the pump — no electrical components within 1 metre of water; supports up to 250 kg per m²; opens and closes in under 60 seconds via key switch; "Deadman" key operation for instant emergency control; works for pools from 5m×3m up to 25m×8m; and available in multiple vinyl colours.

Question 7

What are slatted covers and how do they work?

Accepted Answer

Slatted covers (PoolDeck) consist of interlocking polycarbonate or PVC slats that float on the surface of your pool, operated by button or key. They roll up elegantly into a housing at one end. For slatted covers to function as a safety cover, a stainless steel handrail or safety ledge must be installed (50-70mm below water line). Colour options include Transparent Blue, Dark Blue, Grey Slats, Blue PVC, and Grey PVC.

Question 8

Can I upgrade my manual cover to an automatic one later?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and this upgrade path is built into the DPC product design from the start. The PoolLock V5M Manual system uses the same track infrastructure as the hydraulic automatic system. When you are ready to upgrade, only the mechanism is replaced — your track system, vinyl cover and all existing infrastructure remain in place. Your initial investment is completely protected.

Question 9

Is it legally required to have a pool cover or safety barrier in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. South African legislation makes it compulsory for every pool to have a safety feature — such as a net, fence or pool cover. Building inspectors will not issue an occupancy certificate for a new build if there are no self-closing, lockable gates around the pool area. It is also worth noting that if an unsupervised person enters your property through an unsecured gate and drowns in your pool, you are legally liable.

Question 10

Can a pool cover really prevent a child or pet from drowning?

Accepted Answer

A properly installed safety cover is one of the most effective layers of protection you can have. Our PVC canvas covers and vinyl track systems are specifically engineered to be tamper-proof — children cannot lift them from underneath. Our covers meet international ASTM F1346 safety standards — the globally recognised benchmark for pool cover safety.

Question 11

What weight can each type of safety cover support?

Accepted Answer

Weight capacity varies by product: Child & Pet Safety Cover (PVC Canvas) supports up to 150 kg collectively; PoolLock Hydraulic Vinyl (Automatic) supports up to 250 kg per m²; PoolLock V5M Manual Vinyl supports up to 150 kg. These capacities are critical for emergency rescue scenarios.

Question 12

What is the single most important safety tip for pool owners?

Accepted Answer

Get at least one layer of security around your pool — even if you are not yet ready to invest in a full pool cover system. Install self-closing, lockable gates around your pool area as an absolute minimum. If the pool is close to the house, restrict access with additional fencing or barriers. Layer your security: fence + cover + supervision = maximum protection.

Question 13

Can you give me a ballpark price for an automated pool cover?

Accepted Answer

While every pool is unique, a manual safety cover typically starts from R8,000, while fully automatic systems usually start from R45,000. Premium automated systems like slatted covers can range from R150,000 to R180,000. Let us measure your pool to give you an exact figure with a free quote.

Question 14

Will a pool cover actually save me money?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — and the savings begin from day one: Evaporation reduced by up to 80% (lower water bill); Chemical usage reduced by up to 70% (less chlorine needed); Heating costs lowered considerably (heat retained under cover); Maintenance time reduced by ~80% (no debris, no algae growth). You save money with ANY cover. The more you keep it closed, the more you save.

Question 15

What makes DPC more expensive than cheap pool shop covers?

Accepted Answer

We focus on German Fabric (7-year warranty vs 1-2 years from cheap alternatives), ASTM Safety Compliance (verified weight bearing), and Service/Parts availability. Store-bought covers are often disposable; ours are infrastructure designed to last. Think of it like buying a car — your budget determines the spec, but every product in our range delivers outstanding value.

Question 16

Do you offer financing or payment plans?

Accepted Answer

We work with partners who offer financing. For the cover itself, we typically require a 50% deposit and the balance on completion. Contact us to discuss your options.

Question 17

How long does automated pool cover installation take?

Accepted Answer

Installation time depends on the type of pool and product selected: Existing pools (retrofit) typically take approximately one week from consultation to completion. New builds (integrated) require a longer process with multiple site visits and coordination with contractors. Peak season (November–December) requires 4–5 weeks advance booking. We recommend booking early in spring (September–October) to avoid the rush.

Question 18

Can I get an automated pool cover installed on my existing pool?

Accepted Answer

Yes — almost all DPC products can be installed on existing pools. This is called a retrofit. We use surface-mount track systems where concealed tracks are not possible. Products that work especially well for retrofits include: PoolLock Top Track/Top Mechanism, Manual Vinyl V5M, PVC Canvas Safety Cover, Thermal Blankets, and Slatted Covers (Above Ground option). Free-form (irregular shape) pools can also be catered for.

Question 19

What is the best approach for a new pool build?

Accepted Answer

If you are planning to build a new pool, the best time to plan your cover is BEFORE construction begins. Integrating a cover during the build phase allows for concealed track systems, built-in wet pits, and a seamless finished aesthetic that is not possible with a retrofit. Contact us as early as possible in your build process — ideally before your pool plans are finalised.

Question 20

Does the price include installation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our formal quotes always include professional installation by our certified technicians unless specified otherwise (e.g., DIY kits for thermal blankets).

Question 21

How much maintenance does an automated pool cover require?

Accepted Answer

Pool covers are very low maintenance. General care involves keeping the cover clean and free of standing water. Vinyl covers have active water-removal pumps that prevent rainwater accumulation. Hydraulic systems are extremely low maintenance — not sensitive to water and designed to last as long as your pool. For servicing, repairs or technical assistance, contact us directly — all technicians are trained specialists.

Question 22

What happens to my automated pool cover during load shedding?

Accepted Answer

Load shedding is a reality in South Africa, and we have specifically addressed this: Hydraulic systems remain locked under pressure during a power outage (technician required for manual override). Our 24V Low-Voltage Electric Motor option is designed to run from a car battery or backup power source. Manual Vinyl V5M is always operable by hand — completely unaffected by power outages.

Question 23

How do pool covers help with algae and cleanliness?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most underrated benefits: your pool maintenance decreases by a good 80% if your pool is kept closed. Algae requires light and nutrients to grow. By keeping your pool covered, you block sunlight (preventing photosynthesis and algae growth), keep debris and organic matter out, reduce pump run time, and cut chemical usage by up to 70%. A covered pool stays crystal clear and swim-ready year-round.

Question 24

How long will my pool cover last?

Accepted Answer

With proper care, vinyl covers last 7-9 years (German fabric comes with 7-year warranty). Slatted covers can last 10+ years, though hail is a risk — we advise insuring slatted covers against hail damage. Hardware typically has a 10-year warranty. The main cause of degradation is improper removal and storage, not UV or chemicals.

Question 25

Can I integrate my automated pool cover with a smart home system?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our electric and hydraulic systems can often be integrated with home automation relays, but this requires a custom electrical setup. Contact us to discuss your specific smart home integration requirements.

Question 26

What warranty do you offer on automated pool covers?

Accepted Answer

Warranty coverage varies by component: Fabric/Canvas ranges from 3-7 years (German fabric gets 7 years); Hardware: 10 years; Consumables: 2 years; Motor/Power Pack: 3 years. Thermal blankets have 3-year warranty. Slatted covers have 5 years (extended by DPC from supplier's 3 years). All warranties are backed by our national service network.

Question 27

What does an annual service cost?

Accepted Answer

We recommend an annual service which typically costs between R1,500 - R2,500 depending on location and parts needed. Regular servicing extends the life of your cover and ensures optimal safety performance.

Automated Pool Cover FAQ

About Designer Pool Covers

Products & Features

Safety & Compliance

Pricing & Value

Installation & Process

Maintenance & Technology

Warranties & Support

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