Terrace with a recessed underfloor cover over the pool

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Where does the cover go?

An overview of the installation options: recessed, deck mounted, shaft variants and lifting systems — including the structural requirements for new builds and retrofitting.

Guide·8 minutes’ reading time·ROLLO SOLAR editorial team

The question of which profile to use for the pool is usually answered quickly. The trickier question is: where does the cover go when it’s open? This determines what the pool will look like later on, whether a service shaft is needed, and how much construction work is required.

Those who make this decision early on save themselves a great deal of effort. Those who put it off often find they have only one option left later on.

The key decision: by the pool or in the pool

Deck Mounted System on the pool edge

deck mounted

Visible from the poolside

The roller shaft remains by the pool, concealed behind cladding.

Advantages: Can be retrofitted to almost any existing pool. No structural alterations, no pit, no concrete. The more cost-effective solution — and the only one that always works, even when retrofitted.

Please note: The rolled-up cover is visible and should be protected from direct sunlight. There are claddings available in wood, stainless steel or plastic — which also serve as a design feature and can be designed to double as a bench.

Suitable for: existing pools, retrofitting, cost-effective projects.

Deck Mounted System

Swimming pool with recessed in-ground technology

recessed

Invisible in the pool

The roller shaft is housed in a pit beneath the pool edge. When the cover is open, none of the mechanical components are visible.

Pros: Visually, this is the most unobtrusive solution. The pool edge remains a continuous line, and the terrace a single surface. It is therefore usually the preferred choice for architectural projects.

Point to bear in mind: a pit is required. In new-build projects, this is a planning matter and not a problem. With an existing pool, it involves construction work — feasible, but labour-intensive and expensive.

Suitable for: new-build projects, refurbishment involving conversion, architectural projects.

Recessed roller unit

The recessed variants in detail

Not all recessed systems are the same. Depending on the structural situation, various solutions may be suitable:

1Exposed roller shaft in the pool floorThe simplest option: the roller shutter lies exposed on the pool floor — compact, cost-effective and tried and tested. A cladding provided by the client is required here.
2Bench (single- or double-sided)The pit is clad with an integrated bench — practical, elegant and space-saving.
3Reel-up system in the floor pitThe system retracts completely into a pit at the edge of the pool — ending flush with the floor.
4Pool floor extensionThe pool is extended at the front and accommodates the system within the rear pit — a particularly attractive solution.
5Upper pitCan also be installed even when the water level is high — can be flexibly adapted to your specific installation requirements.
6Electric flap (centre)Folding mechanism in the middle of the pool or at the edge — available with one or two roller shafts, ideal for oval and irregularly shaped pools.

Which option is suitable depends on the pool’s design, water level, overflow system and available space. This decision should be made in consultation with the pool builder — we are happy to advise.

To watch

You can find cross-sectional diagrams of all six variants on the page for the recessed roller unit. We show videos of the system in operation on our YouTube channel.

The bespoke solution: lifting system

With a lifting system, the roller unit and its cover are raised and lowered. When lowered, the mechanism is completely concealed beneath the pool edge; when raised, it is accessible.

This is the most sophisticated solution from a design perspective, and also the most complex. It is suitable for new-build projects or major refurbishments, and is frequently used in hotel and architectural projects where the space is to be used for multiple purposes.

Lifting systems

Optional: when the indoor and outdoor pools meet

In the case of a pool that runs from the indoor area into the garden, a vertical pool partition separates the two areas — a vertical cover that seals off the swimming channel. This allows the outdoor section to be closed off in winter without having to give up the indoor area.

Swimming pool with a cover and a heat pump at the pool edge
From the final design to the finished product: the top view, cut-out and choice of materials are all part of the same planning process — this is the only way to ensure that the cover fits the pool to the millimetre in the end.

Checklist: What should be decided early on in the planning stage

The following points need to be clarified before construction begins:

  1. 1Deck mounted or recessed? This determines whether a pit is required — the most far-reaching decision.
  2. 2What is the water level? Skimmers or pools with an overflow channel affect the support of the cover.
  3. 3Is there a continuous support edge or a handrail? This is crucial for accident protection.
  4. 4Where do the power and control cables run? The supply cable must be routed to the plug-in or tubular motor. Where should the junction box be located?
  5. 5How is the cover operated? Key switch, remote control, integration into the building automation system — or all three?
  6. 6Will the roller unit remain visible? If so, decide early on what cladding to use: wood, plastic or cladding provided by the client?
Accident protection — please read carefully

Our covers are designed to withstand a total load of 100 kg (Mini Cover: 80 kg). This means that if an adult, a child or a pet falls onto the closed cover, the surface will not collapse immediately.

This load capacity is intended solely for accident protection. A pool cover is not a walking surface and is not designed to be walked on.

And it only works provided one structural condition is met: the cover must rest all the way round on a support edge or a handrail. If this support edge is missing at the edge of the pool, the cover may shift sideways — in which case the load capacity of the profiles alone is not sufficient. With overflow channels, there is no accident protection unless the water level is lowered and a handrail is fitted. Additional straps and carabiners can be retrofitted.

In any case, the following applies: no cover can replace the duty of supervision over children near water. It is an additional safety measure, not an excuse to look away.

For planners and specialist contractors

We provide architects and design firms with technical documentation and data for tendering — visit the Architects’ page. Swimming pool builders can find terms and conditions, access to the configurator and installation documentation in the Partners’ Area.

Next step

We’ll take a look at your plans

Not sure which installation option is right for your pool? Send us a floor plan or your pool details — we’ll let you know what’s possible.

Make an enquiryDocuments for plannersoder telefonisch: 08041 79265-0

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