Building custom pool cover using PVC pipe and tarp

[platon20]

My pool has a raised spa on an incline with partial exposure of the lower wall, approx a 5 foot difference in elevation between the top of the spa/pool and the lower wall. So therefore a traditional safety cover designed for a flat pool won't work.

We live in a wooded area with lots of squirrels and also a pond with all kinds of snakes and frogs just 50 feet away from the pool

My goal with this cover is two-fold:

1. Keep as many critters out as possible (especially the larger ones)
2. Have a raised canopy so that water slides off the cover instead of causing water pockets on the surface.

What I don't care about is the aesthetics of the cover -- don't care if it's not that pretty.

I've seen a few photos of custom PVC pipe with overlying tarp that would seem to accomplish this task. Has anybody attempted this? Are there drawbacks I'm not thinking about?

 

[kimkats]

I bet it will take some trying and re-trying to get it just right but I don't see why not if you are willing the accept that part of it. In my head I am seeing a large rectangle "frame" with poles coming up like a "bridge" to make the curve you are wanting to keep the rain and stuff off.

Good luck and let us come along for the ride to see it!

 

[duraleigh]

What is the size of your pool??

 

[domct203]

My pool has a raised spa on an incline with partial exposure of the lower wall, approx a 5 foot difference in elevation between the top of the spa/pool and the lower wall. So therefore a traditional safety cover designed for a flat pool won't work.

We live in a wooded area with lots of squirrels and also a pond with all kinds of snakes and frogs just 50 feet away from the pool

My goal with this cover is two-fold:

1. Keep as many critters out as possible (especially the larger ones)
2. Have a raised canopy so that water slides off the cover instead of causing water pockets on the surface.

What I don't care about is the aesthetics of the cover -- don't care if it's not that pretty.

I've seen a few photos of custom PVC pipe with overlying tarp that would seem to accomplish this task. Has anybody attempted this? Are there drawbacks I'm not thinking about?

How big is the area you want to cover?

Could you post a pic or two? I’m sure that would get ideas flowing.

Being in DFW, I guess you will not have to worry about supporting snow weight, but how is the wind?

You can build just about anything out of PVC, but it will need to be trussed or gusseted over long spans or it will sag under its own weight.

Speaking of weight, PVC structures can get heavier than you think.... what is the plan to remove/re-install?

If you plan things right, you could incorporate a small door that opens for ease of water sample collection, as well as inspecting the pool and underside of the structure.

 

[SBall]

Depending on your deck, I'd set two posts on the long ends of the pool, run a steel cable, and drape the tarp like a tent over the cable/pool.