Automatic Retractable Pool Safety Covers - A Smart, Safe, and Stylish Upgrade
At Texas Tiny Pools, we're all about helping homeowners in Austin enjoy their pool with less hassle and more peace of mind. One of the smartest upgrades you can make to your pool is installing an automatic recessed safety cover — especially if you're looking to simplify code compliance, improve safety, and reduce maintenance.
What Is an Automatic Recessed Safety Cover?
An automatic safety cover is a motorized system that opens and closes over your pool with the push of a button. The “recessed” part means that the track system and cover housing are neatly integrated into the pool design, giving you a clean, modern look with no bulky hardware in sight.
More importantly, these covers are ASTM F1346-compliant, which means they meet strict safety standards for preventing accidental drowning — especially for children and pets.
It Can Replace a Fence (Yes, Really)
In Austin and many other parts of Texas, local code requires that residential pools be enclosed by a barrier or fence to prevent unsupervised access. But here's the good news: an ASTM F1346-compliant automatic safety cover satisfies the pool barrier requirement under the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC).
This means you may not need to add or upgrade a fence around your entire yard to pass inspections. It's a code-compliant, aesthetically pleasing alternative — and one that many of our clients choose to preserve the clean lines and open feel of their outdoor spaces.
(Want more details? Learn more about pool barrier code requirements in Austin on our blog: Understanding Pool Barrier Code Requirements in Austin, Texas)
More Than Just Safety: Additional Benefits
An automatic cover isn’t just about code compliance — it’s a practical investment in your pool's longevity and ease of maintenance.
Keeps Debris Out
Wind-blown leaves, pollen, dust, and bugs can quickly turn your pool into a mess. With a cover, you dramatically cut down on the time and energy spent skimming and vacuuming.
Reduces Evaporation
A covered pool loses far less water to evaporation, especially in the hot, dry Austin climate. This helps you conserve water — and reduce the need to constantly top off the pool.
Retains Heat in Cooler Months
Planning to use your pool into the fall or early spring? A safety cover acts as a thermal blanket, helping to retain heat overnight and reduce your heating costs.
Saves on Chemicals
Less sunlight and fewer contaminants mean slower chlorine loss and better water balance, reducing the amount of chemicals you’ll need to maintain a clean, clear pool.
Smart Pools Deserve Smart Covers
If you’re building a pool with us — or already have one — and want to learn more about whether an automatic recessed safety cover is right for your yard, we’re happy to walk you through your options. We can even help you determine whether it can be used to satisfy Austin’s pool safety barrier requirements for your specific property.