The most useful preparation for a pool closing appointment is straightforward: make the equipment accessible, locate your cover and hardware, and tell the crew about problems before they arrive. Good preparation helps your closing stay on schedule and gives the team the information needed for your particular pool.
This checklist is for homeowners preparing for a Lakeshore Pool & Deck appointment in Barrie and surrounding Simcoe County communities.
A few days before: check your cover and equipment details
Find your winter cover while there is still time to address missing parts. Inspect it from a safe, dry area for obvious tears, worn seams and damaged attachments. Keep its cable, winch, water bags, springs or other matching hardware together, depending on the system you use.
Tell us if your pool or deck has changed since the cover was last installed. New railings, steps or equipment may affect access or cover fit. A cover that worked before a renovation should still be checked.
- Confirm whether the pool is above-ground or in-ground.
- Identify any attached spa, waterfall or separate pump.
- Report leaks, unusual water loss, broken valves or equipment faults.
- Mention torn covers, missing anchors or leaking water bags.
- Confirm the preferred week and your contact details.
Existing problems may change the work needed. A closing appointment is easier to plan when those conditions are known ahead of time.
Prepare clean water, but leave winterization decisions to the crew
Remove floating leaves and ordinary debris where you can do so safely. Let us know if the pool is green, very cloudy or heavily littered. Standard winter chemicals are part of closing, but substantial cleaning or corrective treatment can require a separate service.
Do not drain the pool or disconnect equipment simply because the closing date is approaching. Wait for instructions specific to your pool. The appropriate water level depends on the pool and cover system. If equipment is unsafe or malfunctioning, contact us for guidance rather than continuing to operate it.
If you use chemicals before the appointment, follow their labels and tell the crew what you added. Never mix chemical products together. Pentair’s winterization overview also identifies cleaning and water preparation as part of the closing process.
For in-ground pools with a sump well
If your pool has a sump well, Lakeshore asks that it be emptied two days before arrival. Tell us where it is and whether it refills quickly. If you are unfamiliar with the well or have concerns about groundwater, contact us before attempting any work. Do not enter a well or excavate around it.
The evening before: make a clear access path
- Move furniture, toys and stored items away from the equipment and cover area.
- Arrange access through any locked gate.
- Identify narrow passages, stairs or difficult equipment access.
- Keep the cover and its parts in an accessible location.
- Tell us about parking restrictions or access arrangements.
- Plan to keep pets indoors and children clear of the work area.
You do not need to move heavy or fixed equipment yourself. Explain any obstacle so the crew can plan for it.
On closing day: stay reachable
Keep your phone available in case the crew needs to clarify the setup or discuss a condition that was not visible in the request. If you will be away, agree on access arrangements in advance. Check your confirmed quote for the work and supplies included.
After service, keep the completion photos and any pool-specific instructions. Ask where removable parts have been stored and what checks your cover needs during winter.
Quick final checklist
- Cover and hardware ready.
- Known faults reported.
- Pool and equipment access clear.
- Gate and pet arrangements confirmed.
- Phone available for questions.
- Quote reviewed and appointment confirmed.
Still choosing a service? See our 2026 pool closing prices, then request your preferred closing week in about two minutes. Call 289-512-9696 if your pool needs special preparation.