Pool Enclosures Can Extend Your Swimming Season: Part 2

Inflatable Pool Enclosures

As the name implies, inflatable pool enclosures are made from vinyl that can be inflated to dome up over the pool. There are a number of colors and design patterns to choose from, depending on the size and shape of your swimming pool. The structure of the pool is supported by air, which comes from a quiet blower similar to what you may see in a child’s outdoor bouncy house. The blower maintains the air pressure inside the dome so that there is enough space to move around and enjoy the pool.

Some inflatable pool covers come in standard dimensions, but these can be customized to fit just about any swimming pool out there. The entrance for the dome is a zipper door that looks much like a doorway to a tent. Unlike structural pool enclosures, “bubble domes” can stand up to heavy snowfall. The top of the dome may start to sag when the snow piles get high, but you can easily clear the snow off with a simple rope across the top of the dome.

Inflatable pool domes do not always do well in heavy winds, which is why they need to be well anchored before the weather turns rough. If you think that the weather is not going to be suitable for the dome, you can simply let it deflate and then put it back up when the weather gets better.

As you may have guessed, inflatable domes come at a price. They are also less efficient at maintaining heat in the swimming pool area, only able to increase the water temp by about 10 degrees, not 20 like the structural cover. Nevertheless, this is a great, sturdy option that can be used on nearly any inground pool, and it is certainly something to keep in mind.

Which Swimming Pool Enclosure Is Right for You?

When it comes down to it, you have to weigh the cost, durability, and versatility of both swimming pool enclosures to determine which one is right for you. Inflatable covers usually last longer than structural ones, and they can be used under more extreme conditions. However, structural pool domes are more affordable, and they provide better warmth in the cool months of the year. Think about what you want out of your pool enclosure, or talk to a pool expert near you to see what your options are. Give us a call here at Pool Max, and we would love to help you choose the right enclosure for your pool.