Seasonal Pool Care /
How to Keep a Pool Cover from Sagging
Keep a pool cover from sagging by removing standing water and debris, checking tension and anchors, maintaining the right water level, and following the manual.
Archive date: this article was written for PoolSkimmer on Oct 24, 2026 and given the earlier archive date of Nov 26, 2025 so the blog reads as an organized archive. It was not published on that date.
The cause of a sagging pool cover Water, leaves, snow and the like will pull the middle of a pool cover down, as will weak tension. To put a stop to it, one must reduce the weight on top, make sure the cover is fastened right and that the water in the pool is at the level the cover requires.
Where to start your inspection Before concluding the cover has given way, rule out the simple explanations.
1. Examine for standing water or debris. A pile of leaves or melting snow can put on weight in no time. When a cover is holding water it is prone to stretch and dip.
2. See where the water level is. In some cases the cover needs the water underneath to hold it flat. Too little water and you lose that support; too much and it will not sit well at the edge.
3. Give the edges and anchors a once over. If straps or clips are loose the cover will shift. Refer to the manufacturer’s manual for the proper way to secure and adjust tension.
Dealing with winter and storms The key to preventing sag in inclement weather is to be on top of any extra weight and ensure everything is secure.
- Make regular work of removing leaves with an approved tool.
- After a hard rain, take the recommended steps to clear the water from the cover.
- Trim back trees where you can to limit what falls on the cover.
- Inspect the cover after wind or snow has been through.
- For those with an air pillow, position it as the maker intends; it will do some of the supporting for the center of a winter cover. Water bags and other perimeter supports should be checked for leaks or if they have moved out of place.
Is a bit of sag to be expected? You may see some light sagging when there is rain or debris on the cover. It is not normal, however, for it to form deep pockets or sink into the pool.
Pay attention if: - the situation does not improve once you have cleared the water and debris - the cover is not lying snug at the edges - you find the fabric is stretched, torn or waterlogged - the fit for the pool is off - hardware such as anchors and straps will not stay put
Common errors There are certain practices that can be a safety hazard or wear out the cover prematurely.
- Letting standing water remain is a mistake.
- Do not drag the cover over a rough deck.
- Improvised repairs are not to be made unless the manual says so.
- Never put your hands in operating suction equipment to clear a blockage.
Time to call in a professional? If the cover continues to sag despite your best efforts at cleaning and adjustment, or if you have damaged fittings, a qualified pool pro should be contacted. This also applies if ice and snow have put undue stress on the cover or if there is a structural concern at the pool’s edge.
Should you come across abnormal water levels with no explanation, or electrical and lighting faults, get some assistance. And do not swim until matters are put right.
Safe maintenance When it comes to the skimmer basket, the pump should be off before you open or clean it. Adhere to the manuals and chemical labels in all your pool work and have the right PPE on hand for any wet or sharp materials.
For the most part a sagging cover is just a matter of maintenance. With the proper water level and tension, and kept free of obstructions, the cover will do its job of protecting the pool.
Sources and further reading
- [Hayward: Weekly pool maintenance](https://www.hayward.com/maintenance/weekly-pool-maintenance)