Doheny’s Guide to Above Ground Pool Leaf Nets & Winter Covers
The Secret to a Stress-Free Spring Opening
Every pool owner knows the feeling of dread that comes with pulling back the winter cover in spring. You anticipate a refreshing blue oasis, but all too often, you are met with a murky, swamp-like mess of decaying leaves, stained water, and tedious cleanup work. The difference between a crystal-clear opening and a weekend of scrubbing usually comes down to one critical decision made months prior: how you managed the falling leaves during autumn.
For residential pool owners, particularly those with above ground pools, the battle against nature is constant. When organic matter sits on your winter cover, it decomposes, creating a heavy sludge that weighs down your cover and strains your pool walls. Worse, if that sludge mixes with rain and snowmelt, it creates a "tea" of tannins and phosphates that can fuel algae growth before the sun even warms up.
This is where Doheny’s Commercial-Grade Leaf Nets transform your maintenance routine. Designed for homeowners who value durability and time-savings, these nets act as the first line of defense for your pool.
The "Double-Cover" Strategy: Why One Cover Isn't Enough
A common misconception is that a single solid winter cover is sufficient. While a solid cover blocks sunlight, it is not designed to handle the bulk of autumn debris effectively on its own. Pool professionals use the "Double-Cover" strategy for maximum protection.
The Role of the Solid Winter Cover
Your base layer is typically a solid winter cover. Its primary job is to create a watertight and light-tight seal to prevent algae. However, because they are impermeable, wet leaves stick to them like glue, making removal back-breaking and risky.
The Role of the Leaf Net
The leaf net is your top layer. It is a lightweight, mesh barrier installed over your solid winter cover. It captures leaves and twigs while allowing rainwater and melting snow to pass through to the solid cover below.
How They Work Together
- Debris Capture: The leaf net catches the foliage, allowing it to dry out rather than turning into sludge.
- Drainage: Rain passes through the net and sits on the solid cover (where it can be easily pumped off).
- Easy Removal: Once trees are bare, simply unfasten the leaf net and peel it off, leaving a clean solid cover behind for the winter.
Anatomy of Doheny’s Commercial-Grade Leaf Nets
Reinforced Commercial-Grade Construction
Standard economy nets often use heat-sealed edges that can snap under tension. Doheny’s nets utilize Commercial-Grade binding and webbing. The edges are reinforced with heavy-duty woven material that is stitched, not melted. This ensures the grommets remain intact even under the weight of wet, heavy debris.
UV-Protected Woven Material
The sun can make lower-quality covers brittle. Doheny’s uses exceptionally durable woven material treated with UV inhibitors to resist sun damage, keeping the mesh flexible and strong season after season.
Advanced Mesh Drainage Technology
Our tight-weave design is engineered to trap small debris—like pine needles and seed pods—while allowing water to pass through freely. This prevents "puddling" that can pull top rails inward and cause structural damage to your above ground pool.
Hardware and Installation Features
Heavy-Duty Steel Cable and Metal Ratchet Kit
Every Commercial-Grade Leaf Net includes a high-tensile steel cable and a metal winch/ratchet. This system allows you to create a "drum-tight" fit below the top rail, preventing wind from getting under the net.
The 3-Foot Overlap Advantage
All Doheny’s above ground leaf nets are manufactured with a 3-foot overlap. If you order for a 24-foot pool, the net is actually 27 feet in diameter. This accounts for the drop from the top rail to the lowered water level, ensuring a secure fit without the need to "size up" manually.
Installation Guide for Above Ground Pools
- Preparation: Lower water below the skimmer and install your solid winter cover first.
- Positioning: Spread the leaf net over the pool, centering it so the 3-foot overlap hangs evenly on all sides.
- Threading: Feed the steel cable through every reinforced loop or grommet.
- Securing: Insert cable ends into the metal ratchet and tighten until the net is locked firmly below the top rail.
Comparison: Choosing the Right Cover
| Cover Type | Best For | Light Blocking | Water Drainage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaf Net | Catching debris in Autumn | Low | Instant |
| Solid Winter Cover | Blocking algae and silt | 100% | None (Requires Pump) |
| Mesh Winter Cover | Low maintenance / Heavy snow | High (90-95%) | High |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I order a size larger than my pool?
No. Select the dimensions that match your above ground pool. We have already added the 3 feet of extra material required for the overlap.
What makes this "Commercial-Grade"?
Unlike standard nets with heat-sealed edges, our Commercial-Grade nets feature stitched reinforced binding and stronger webbing to prevent tearing and grommet failure.
Can I use a leaf net without a solid cover?
It is not recommended for winterizing. Sunlight will pass through, causing algae blooms. The leaf net is a supplement to a winter cover, not a replacement.
Does the leaf net come with the cable and winch?
Yes. Every Doheny’s Commercial-Grade Above Ground Leaf Net includes a heavy-duty steel cable and a metal winch/ratchet.
Conclusion: Protect Your Investment
By choosing a Doheny’s Commercial-Grade Leaf Net, you are choosing quality, durability, and a faster spring opening. Don't let falling leaves ruin your swimming season. Shop our full range of covers and accessories today.
