Winter isn’t kind to backyard pools, especially if you’re relying on basic covers or cheap structures to survive the season. The snow piles up, the temperatures drop, and suddenly your pool becomes a frozen liability instead of a relaxing retreat. For homeowners in snowy regions, the solution is simple but powerful: a pool enclosure that can handle the snow. We’re not talking about a tarp or a bubble; we mean a serious, engineered structure that protects your pool, lets you swim year-round, and adds value to your property.
In this guide, we’ll explore why snow load matters, what features to look for in a snow-rated enclosure, and why Covers in Play is setting the gold standard for cold-climate pool solutions. Let’s make your pool winter-proof and winter-awesome.
Why Snow Is a Serious Threat to Pool Enclosures
Snow isn’t just cold, it’s heavy, unpredictable, and relentless. One unexpected overnight storm can dump hundreds of pounds of snow onto your pool structure. That’s a recipe for damage if your enclosure isn’t engineered for snow load. Most pool owners underestimate just how much pressure snow exerts. A single foot of wet snow can weigh over 20 pounds per square foot. Multiply that across a large enclosure, and you’re dealing with thousands of pounds of force.
Traditional enclosures, especially cheaper plastic ones or DIY setups, simply aren’t designed to handle this kind of stress. They buckle, crack, or collapse. And once the structure is compromised, your pool becomes exposed to freezing temperatures, ice, and costly repairs. To survive winter, your enclosure needs more than good looks; it needs structural integrity. That’s where snow-rated engineering becomes non-negotiable.
What Makes a Pool Enclosure Snow-Ready
Not all enclosures are built equally. If you’re in a snow-heavy climate, you need to make sure your enclosure checks the right boxes, or risk your investment melting away with the spring thaw. Here’s what defines a pool enclosure that can handle the snow:
High Snow Load Rating
Make sure the enclosure is rated for your local climate. Look for specifications that match or exceed local building codes, especially in northern areas.
Strong Framing Materials
Aluminum frames outperform wood or PVC in cold climates. They won’t warp, bend, or snap under pressure. Powder-coated aluminum also resists corrosion caused by snow and moisture.
Polycarbonate Glazing
Forget flimsy plastic or glass. Multi-wall polycarbonate panels are lightweight, ultra-durable, and offer thermal insulation to keep the pool warm even in sub-zero temps.
Proper Drainage & Seals
Snow will melt, and that water needs somewhere to go. Sealed joints and drainage systems prevent buildup, ice damming, and leakage. These elements don’t just protect your pool; they turn your backyard into a true winter oasis.
Fixed vs. Retractable, Which One Handles Snow Better?
When shopping for a swimming pool enclosure that can handle the snow, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go fixed or retractable. Each has its perks, but the best choice depends on how you plan to use your pool, especially in colder months.
Fixed Enclosures
These are the classic, no-frills options. Think of them like permanent sunrooms over your pool. They’re sturdy, sealed tight, and great for insulation. If you don’t mind giving up fresh air and direct sunlight in the summer, a fixed enclosure is a solid, snow-ready option. But here’s the trade-off: you’re locked in. No open-air swims. No sliding panels. Once it’s up, it’s up.
Retractable Enclosures
Now we’re talking versatility. High-quality retractable systems (like those from Covers in Play) use motorized tracks and reinforced frames that glide open or closed, even in winter. You get snow resistance when it’s storming, and fresh air when it’s sunny. Retractable swimming pool enclosures are the best of both worlds.
And because they’re engineered for high snow load, you’re not compromising on safety or structure. You’re just choosing freedom. So, if you want retractable pool enclosures enjoyment, with snow resistance and summer vibes, retractable wins. Every. Single. Time.
Real-World Benefits of Snow-Handling Pool Enclosures
A pool enclosure that can handle the snow isn’t just a protective shell; it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Here’s what pool owners in cold climates gain from a snow-rated enclosure:
Year-Round Pool Enjoyment
Why shut down your pool 6 months a year? With a properly insulated and snow-rated enclosure, you can swim in December. Sip cocoa in the hot tub while snowflakes fall. Yes, really.
Protect Your Investment
Pools are expensive. Replacing cracked tiles or repairing freeze damage can cost thousands. A snow-ready enclosure shields your pool, reducing wear and tear and cutting down on off-season maintenance.
Lower Long-Term Costs
Think about energy savings. High-quality enclosures trap heat, especially if your pool is heated. That means less energy wasted, and more savings on your utility bill.
Increased Property Value
An all-season pool area isn’t just functional, it’s luxurious. Homes with retractable enclosures scream premium. It’s not just an upgrade; it’s a statement.
No More Shoveling Snow Off Covers
Let’s be real, nobody enjoys climbing out in the cold to clear off a sagging tarp. A motorized retractable enclosure does the heavy lifting for you.
Why Covers in Play Lead the Market in Snow-Resistant Enclosures
When it comes to finding a pool enclosure that can handle the snow, one name consistently rises to the top: Covers in Play. Here’s why they’re the go-to choice for snow-prone homeowners:
Engineered for Canadian Winters
Covers in Play is based in Canada; they know snow. Their enclosures are engineered to meet (and often exceed) local snow load requirements, making them a reliable choice even in the harshest climates.
Motorized Retractable System
Their patented retractable enclosure system isn’t just smooth, it’s smart. With the touch of a button, the enclosure opens or closes, allowing full control over your environment without lifting a shovel.
Built to Last
These aren’t flimsy frames. We’re talking powder-coated aluminum and UV-protected polycarbonate panels that can take a beating from the weather and still look sleek.
20-Year Warranty
They back their enclosures with a 20-year structural warranty, a serious vote of confidence that’s rare in this industry.
Tried, Tested, Trusted
From private homes to commercial properties, Covers in Play has transformed countless outdoor spaces into four-season retreats.
Conclusion
A backyard pool shouldn’t be a seasonal luxury, especially when the right structure can transform it into a year-round escape, even under a blanket of snow. Whether you’re facing brutal Canadian winters or surprise snowstorms in the northern U.S., investing in a pool enclosure that can handle the snow isn’t just smart for indoor and outdoor swimming pools; it’s essential. You’ll protect your indoor and outdoor pool, reduce maintenance headaches, and enjoy the freedom to swim in December without worrying about structural damage or costly repairs. But not all enclosures are up to the challenge. Look for high snow load ratings, durable materials like polycarbonate and aluminum, and a design that’s built to last.
However, remember that not all enclosures are designed for this level of performance. Look for snow load ratings, durable materials, and proven engineering. Brands like Covers in Play have mastered the art of building stylish, retractable enclosures that are as tough as they are beautiful, backed by real warranties and real-world results. So go ahead, make winter your new favorite pool season.
