How to Weigh Down Solar Cover From Wind

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Mendy48

Mendy48

Bronze Supporter
Apr 27, 2018
1,008
Midland, MI
My backyard is VERY VERY windy. Each summer I go through picking up the solar cover reel from the pool (amongst other things that blow in the pool; like my lounge chairs). However, the important thing I would like to know is what is the best unsightly way to weigh down my solar cover reel from blowing around (especially in the pool). I mean, there was a time that the wind in my backyard was up to 50mph as per weather alert. I just need suggestions as to what to do with this problem I’m having. Thanks, in advance, for your time.
 
I've occasionally had similar issues in the past; found that a well-placed sandbag helps. Unsightly? I guess that's a personal preference.
I've also been known to lay a clean piece of lumber (5/4" cedar decking works well; don't use composite, it will probably sink) across the edge of the cover on those really windy days.
It's kind of hard to say how to weigh yours down without pics of the reel base.
 
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You can use 10' lengths of 3/4" PVC pipe. If the pipes alone are not heavy enough, you can fill with a bit of water and cap the ends without gluing. PVC pipe and fitting are cheap, so if you want an upgrade, you can always paint them. PVC holds paint well when scuffed with Scotch-Brite and wiped with acetone or alcohol. Wiping with acetone will remove the printing on the pipe if you decide to go with white.
 
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danc58 said:
I've occasionally had similar issues in the past; found that a well-placed sandbag helps. Unsightly? I guess that's a personal preference.
I've also been known to lay a clean piece of lumber (5/4" cedar decking works well; don't use composite, it will probably sink) across the edge of the cover on those really windy days.
It's kind of hard to say how to weigh yours down without pics of the reel base.
Click to expand...
Here’s a pic of my reel base. There was a nasty wind yesterday and woke up again to my reel and patio lounge chairs in the pool.

image.jpg
 
You could probably get a sandbag or two on there, but the real problem is that once a wind like you're talking about gets under the cover, a sandbag isn't going to stop it.
That's why I did the wood thing. It actually worked pretty well; stopped the edge of the cover from being lifted in the first place.
 
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Rancho Cost-a-Lotta said:
You can use 10' lengths of 3/4" PVC pipe. If the pipes alone are not heavy enough, you can fill with a bit of water and cap the ends without gluing. PVC pipe and fitting are cheap, so if you want an upgrade, you can always paint them. PVC holds paint well when scuffed with Scotch-Brite and wiped with acetone or alcohol. Wiping with acetone will remove the printing on the pipe if you decide to go with white.
Click to expand...
I misread your post and thought you were asking about the cover. Sorry.
 
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