How to Build a Pool Cover From PVC Pipe

PVC pipe pool covers are not that hard to make. You can pick up all the supplies from your local hardware store and can have you pool covered in no time.

1. Put on all protective gear.

2. Measure the width and length of your swimming pool with a measuring tape. Add a total of 6 inches to each measurement to allow the PVC pipe pool cover to sit flat on the ground around the swimming pool.

3. Lay out the necessary PVC pipes that will make up the length of the swimming pool cover. Use 1-inch schedule 40 PVC. It is strong enough not to break, but light enough to allow you to move the cover or remove it with ease.

4. Dry-fit the pieces together. Then cut the each piece to the proper length, using a PVC cutter.

5. Cut the pieces of 1-inch PVC pipe for the width of the pool. You want one piece to be used every 10 feet in spacing. For example, if the pool was 60 feet long, then use 6 pieces to cover the area from one end of the pool to the other end.

6. Dry-fit 1-inch elbows in each corner and 1-inch tees in each piece that is spanning the middle, for the width. Use 1-inch couplers to join straight sections together.

7. Lay the dry-fitted PVC frame next to the pool, using a helper and see if the fit is correct. If so, then pull apart each connection and apply the glue/primer to both the PVC pipe and the inside of each fitting. Twist each connection together, as you move your way from one end of the PVC frame to the other end. Let dry for several hours.

8. Lay a tarp out over the PVC frame. The tarp can be slightly larger in width and length than the frame you built.

9. Tie a waterproof string through each grommet hole in the edge of the tarp. Go all the way around the pool cover and do this. The middle part of the pool cover doesn't need anything to hold it down, because the outer frame will be tied tight to the tarp.

10. Fit the new PVC pipe pool cover over the pool, using a helper. Use stones on the outside edge of the tarp (on the ground) to help hold it down.