Solar blanket - 12 vs. 16 mil/color/cutting edges/steps

[PoolDoc]

Ernie, I moved your defense of the EcoSmarte system here:

http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php?15491

[CarlD]

Here's my take on Solar Blankets: I have had opaque, blue on top, black underneath, blue transparent, heavy 16 mil clear, and 12 mil clear.

What I have found is:
1) Solar blankets last 3 seasons and show signs of popping bubbles at the end. Try to get a fourth season and you'll get zillions of circles in your water. Doesn't matter: it's 3 seasons and replace.
2) Solar blanket warranties absolutely never, ever, EVER cover bubbles popping, only seams de-laminating. IF you get that, then the warranty may be honored.
3) While clear seem to heat the best, the difference is marginal.
4) I haven't tried 8 mil, yet, but I no longer buy the heavy 16 mil ones--too expensive to fail after 3 years.
5) Otherwise, I simply buy the cheapest 12 mil I can find. It's good for 3 years anyway.
6) I've now just installed my fourth one on this pool.

PoolSupplies.com sells an 18x32 pre-cut cover.

Carl

[ernie1959]

Thanks Carl,

My wife really likes the blue, so I ended up getting the 12 mil blue. I'm 18x36 plus a 4x8 step, and I couldn't find anyone who sold that precut, or even an 18x40.

By the end of last year we had tons of those little plastic circles floating on the water. We got 3 1/2 seasons out of it, so you're right on with your statement.

Not sure if I had a 12 or 16 mil, guess I'll know when the 12 mil shows up!

Thanks!