Tips on making your Spa Cover last longer

If you've just spent $3-500 on a new cover, or are getting ready to buy one, because yours is so heavy you can't even lift it, and you wonder why the last one only lasted you 3 years, then read below to understand the basics of spa cover care.


* If you're in the Southern states, a quality UVA/UVB vinyl protectant is mandatory, apply as directed 3-4 times a year. DO NOT use 'Armor-All' brand protectant as it contains petroleum distillates and damages vinyl long-term. A quality saddle soap or cover care conditioner from your local spa store is good, or try the '303' spray.


* If you use Bromine, keep the levels to a MINIMUM, as the gas trapped under the cover will "orange peel" the underside and make it brittle.


* When you shock weekly, it's very important to leave your cover open/off for a jet run cycle (15-20 min.) so expelled gases can escape. This protects the underside of your cover, as well as clears your water for clarity.  This also prevents the chemicals from breaking down the vapor barrier, so the foam cores can stay dry.  When the vapor  barrier is too weak, moisture just starts filling up the foam, causing the cover to be waterlogged and heavy.


* Inspect cover for cuts/pokes through vinyl, breaching the inner plastic vapor barrier. This plastic bag envelopes the foam core, keeping it dry. As soon as a small hole is made, the foam cores are so dry, they will wick in moisture slowly and get heavier and heavier...To fix plastic - get it dry and use good quality clear postal mailing tape to seal it back up. To repair cuts/ holes in vinyl try a vinyl repair kit. . Most cuts can be glued from the back side by adding a small scrap over cut and putting tape on front side, pulling it back into shape. A good vinyl glue can be found at auto parts stores.

* Lastly, you can remove your foam cores (they all zipper out at hinge) and flip them over and put them back in to reverse the 'sag'. This should be done once a year, or twice a year if your tub is 7' or bigger. This is a good time to inspect plastic bagging for holes, cuts fix!

Investing in a good "cover lifter" is important, it will be easier to remove and replace the cover, and protect it from damage.
Call us at Spa and Deck Creations to learn more and see the choices available at http://www.leisureconcepts.com/.  Call for prices.  We deliver and install these lifters and can help you decide which one is best for  your particular needs.