For homeowners in Arizona and Nevada, an unused pool isn't just a waste of space—it's a constant drain on your finances. When you start searching for a solution, the world of high-end pool covers can seem like a logical first step. But as you investigate the real pool cover installation cost, it becomes clear that a premium cover is a major investment. The critical question isn't just about the upfront price, but what you get for that money—and whether there's a smarter way to invest in your home's value and your lifestyle.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that a top-tier automatic or hard top pool cover can rival the cost of a small car. While these solutions do cover the water, they often fail to solve the bigger problem of reclaiming your backyard. Before you commit to a five-figure expense for a cover, it’s essential to compare it to an alternative that doesn't just hide your pool, but transforms it into a valuable, functional asset.
High-end inground pool covers fall into two main categories: automatic security covers and rigid, walk-on hard tops. Both are significant upgrades from a simple tarp, but they come with hefty price tags and hidden complexities.
These are typically made of reinforced vinyl that retracts into a housing unit at one end of the pool. They are convenient and offer a degree of safety, but the costs add up quickly.
A hard top pool cover is a more robust solution, often made of aluminum or composite panels that can bear some weight. They offer a higher level of security but come with their own set of financial considerations.
When you place these numbers side-by-side with a full pool-to-deck conversion from Freedom Decks, the value proposition becomes much clearer. A Freedom Deck isn't just a cover; it's a permanent-feeling, semi-permanent solution that creates an entirely new outdoor living space.
| Feature | High-End Automatic/ Hard Cover | Freedom Decks Pool Conversion |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost Range | $12,000 - $30,000+ | $12,000 - $25,000+ |
| Monthly Pool Expenses | $0 (Pool retired) | $0 (Pool retired) |
| Added Usable Space | Limited/ Conditional | Full, seamless patio space |
| Ongoing Maintenance | High (Mechanical parts, cleaning) | Low (Simple composite deck cleaning) |
| Impact on Home Value | Neutral | Preserves pool value, adds patio value |
| Long-Term ROI | Low (Depreciating mechanical asset) | High (Saves thousands in pool costs) |
Note: Financial data is based on industry averages and typical project scopes in the Southwest US. Actual costs will vary based on project size, material choices, and location.
Consider a fictional yet typical homeowner in Phoenix. They spend an average of $300 per month on pool chemicals, electricity, and weekly service—totaling $3,600 per year. That doesn't even include water evaporation or future high-ticket repairs like re-plastering ($7,000+) or pump replacement ($1,500+).
By choosing a deck conversion, they immediately eliminate that $3,600 annual expense. In just over five years, the deck has effectively paid for itself in saved costs alone, all while they've enjoyed a beautiful new patio. The automatic cover, meanwhile, would have just been sitting there, potentially needing its first expensive service call. This reframes the conversation entirely.
When you look at the complete financial picture, the choice becomes clear. A high-end pool cover you can walk on is a temporary, expensive patch for a bigger problem. It covers the water but leaves you with a depreciating mechanical asset that doesn't fundamentally improve your lifestyle. A pool-to-deck conversion is a one-time investment that stops the financial drain, reclaims your entire backyard, and provides a durable, low-maintenance living space that you and your family can enjoy for years. It’s not just about covering a hole in the ground; it’s about building a foundation for a better life.
While the upfront costs can be comparable, the long-term value is significantly better. A deck conversion eliminates all future pool maintenance and repair costs, providing a tangible return on investment that a mechanical cover cannot match.
Yes, reputable companies often partner with financing providers to offer flexible payment plans, making the investment manageable for qualified homeowners. This allows you to stop the monthly bleed of pool expenses and roll that cost into a value-adding home improvement.
Because a Freedom Deck is considered a semi-permanent, reversible improvement rather than a permanent structural addition, it typically does not trigger a reassessment of your property taxes in the same way a major home addition would. However, it's always best to consult with a local tax professional.