Buffalo Blizzard Deluxe 18 ft Round Winter Pool Cover - Heavy Duty

In this review of the Buffalo Blizzard Deluxe 18 ft round winter pool cover, the bottom line is simple: it is best for pool owners who need an affordable, straightforward way to keep seasonal debris, snow and ice out of an above ground pool. The cover's biggest selling point is its rugged triple-laminated polyethylene construction with an 8x8 Hold-tite scrim count, which delivers clear protection against tearing and cold-weather damage while providing a tailored overlap that keeps wind from sneaking underneath. For those who want long-term UV resistance and an easy install, this cover stands out.

Key Features

• Durable Winter Protection: The triple-laminated polyethylene body combined with an 8x8 scrim count helps resist tears, splits and cold-weather cracking for season-long coverage.
• UV & Fade Resistant: UV-resistant nylon thread and fabric treatments reduce sunlight exposure to pool water and help preserve liner appearance.
• Reinforced Edges: Double-stitched, triple-thick hems increase edge strength so the cover holds up where wear is most likely.
• Tailored Fit: An extra 3 ft of material allows full overlap beyond the pool rim to limit wind uplift and improve overall coverage.
• Secure Installation: The included steel cable, aluminum winch and turnbuckle plus grommets spaced every 3 ft make it straightforward to tension and secure the cover.
• Built for Weather: Designed to withstand freezing temperatures, high winds and extended sun exposure for seasonal defense.

Who It's For

This cover is a good match for above ground pool owners who want a no-nonsense winter solution that balances strength and cost; it fits pools where a simple overlap and cable system are preferred over elaborate anchoring. It is particularly useful for folks who value ease of installation and UV resistance and are prepared to remove snow and ice buildup as needed.

Those seeking a heavyweight, multi-season warranty product or a very thick commercial-grade tarp may want to look elsewhere, since some users report the material feels thin and longevity can vary by climate and handling. Customers in extremely severe conditions should consider heavier specialist covers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable winter protection that installs quickly with the supplied cable and winch.
• Good fit and overlap design that helps prevent wind from getting under the cover.
• UV-resistant hems and thread help preserve fabric and pool liner appearance over sun exposure.
• Reinforced grommets and stitching provide stronger anchoring points around the perimeter.

Cons

• Material is relatively thin compared with premium commercial covers, and some owners report it may not last multiple seasons under heavy use.
• Not intended as a permanent year-round tarp in extreme climates without additional support for heavy snow loads.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Buffalo Blizzard Deluxe 18 ft cover is a practical, value-oriented choice for above ground pool owners who want solid seasonal protection without complexity. It combines a tailored overlap, reinforced stitching and a usable cable-and-winch system to keep debris and sunlight out of the pool; note that material thickness is modest, so buyers in harsher climates should manage expectations about multi-year life. Overall, it offers good protection and easy installation for the price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this cover fit my above ground pool?
The cover is sized for an 18 ft round pool and includes an extra 3 ft of overlap to secure beyond the pool edge for a snug fit.

Is installation difficult?
No, the cover is lightweight and installs with the included steel cable, aluminum winch and turnbuckle, plus reinforced grommets spaced every 3 ft.

How durable is the material?
The triple-laminated polyethylene with 8x8 scrim and UV-resistant stitching resists tears and cold-weather cracking, but some owners note the material is thinner than premium commercial covers and longevity varies by climate.