How Much Weight Can a Pool Safety Cover Hold?

If you’ve ever wondered just how strong a pool safety cover really is, you’re not alone. From pets and kids to wild animals and heavy snow, your swimming pool safety cover isn’t just keeping leaves out; it’s standing between your pool and whatever life throws at it.

At Kayden Manufacturing, we build safety covers for inground pools that go beyond the standard. Not all covers are created equal, and when it comes to strength, stability, and safety, we believe you should know exactly what you’re getting. So let’s break it down: how much weight can a pool safety cover hold, and what makes a Kayden pool cover the better choice?

Let’s Get Specific: What Weight Can a Pool Safety Cover Really Hold?

While exact numbers can vary depending on size, type, and installation, a standard safety cover for pool use is typically rated to hold at least 485 pounds. That’s the minimum set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), and it’s meant to reflect the combined weight of two adults and a child—enough for someone to safely walk onto the cover and assist another person or pet in trouble.

Standard covers meet the requirement. Kayden pool covers go far beyond it.

Built for the Real World

When it comes to load strength, materials matter. That’s why Kayden swimming pool safety covers are made with 3,600-pound break strength webbing, which means it’s strong enough to hold the weight of a sedan. This webbing spans both the top and underside of the cover, running the full length and width of your pool. That kind of reinforcement provides added peace of mind.

We also use 138-weight coated thread, carefully constructed to handle tension, foot traffic, unexpected falls, and even heavy snow accumulation. 

Mesh That’s Tough, Tight, and Sun-Ready

At Kayden, we make three types of covers—solid safety pool covers, mesh, and SunBlocker™ mesh. Our SunBlocker™ mesh material features a near-impenetrable weave that blocks debris and resists wear while still allowing rain and snowmelt to pass through. It’s designed to hold weight without sagging, tearing, or degrading under UV exposure.

For those with yards that get full sun or full snowpack, this material is ideal. Compared to traditional mesh options, SunBlocker™ mesh offers far greater protection against weathering, abrasion, and light transmission—making it perfect for long-term performance.

Springs and Anchors That Hold Their Ground

What good is a strong cover if it isn’t held in place? We use heavy-gauge stainless steel springs with non-slip surfaces and smart slotting, making it easier to secure and adjust the cover. These springs stay snug, even after long winters or repeated use.

For custom builds or more complex pool designs, Kayden provides 3/16″ heavy-gauge stainless steel cables and rugged wall anchors for a fit that stays put, even when the weather gets rough.

Custom Fit for Raised Walls and Unique Features

If you have pool steps that jut out, a retaining wall, or a water feature, you need a safety cover that works around these features. Some generic covers only fit basic shapes. At Kayden Manufacturing, we craft custom covers to match the contours of the pool, including raised features.

Our safety covers for inground pools with vertical structures are reinforced with plush, cushioned tubes for added protection and a snug fit around hard-to-cover spaces. The result is a cover that hugs every part of the pool without sagging, warping, or giving way in vulnerable areas.

Is It Time to Replace Your Cover?

A quality pool safety cover protects pets, kids, and wildlife from accidents, keeps debris out of the water, and helps extend the life of your pool. If your current swimming pool cover is showing signs of wear—sagging, fraying, or pulling loose—it may not be able to support the weight it once could. And if you’re using a tarp with water bags or bricks? That’s not a safety cover at all.

Upgrading to a solid safety pool cover or high-quality mesh design gives you real protection that actually holds weight, withstands the elements, and stays secure.

An Exceptional Guarantee

Kayden safety covers come with a lifetime limited warranty. We back up our covers with long-term protection. Our warranty gives pool owners the confidence that their investment is built to last, season after season.

Ready to Cover Smarter?

Your pool safety cover is there to protect your family, your pets, your guests, and your investment. Explore our safety cover options and connect with a Kayden dealer in your area to measure and fit your new custom cover today. Need help finding a local Kayden authorized dealer? Reach out to us.