Frequently Asked Questions

What HIDE size do I need?

The HIDE product range is available for Skimmer Lids, Access Covers, Drain Covers and Concrete wet-pour covers. The first step is to determine which style of HIDE product you need.

Product size depends on both the outer measurements of the lid and the thickness (depth) of your inlay materials. Choose your cover to fit over the opening in your landscaped area (referred to as underside opening in the brochure tables (column G)), and ensure the depth of the lid will fit your inlay materials. For example, if you have a 30mm thick stone tile, ask for a HIDE-30.

Note the edge protector is 10mm more in-depth than the inlay lid so ensure there is adequate depth when planning the pool. For example, a HIDE Kit to suit a 30mm stone has an internal thickness of 33mm (column D) to allow for glue, and the overall external depth of the edge protector is 43mm (column F).

Your helpful HIDE sales professional, or your contractor, can assist with providing correct information on the size you require. All of the outer and internal measurements for each product are provided on our product pages. Alternatively, download the HIDE Specification Sheet here.

Where can I purchase a HIDE product?

Skimmer Lids Pty Ltd is the manufacturer of HIDE products; we offer our range to the homeowner via our many distributors throughout the USA, Canada, England and the Benelux. Our Distributors display our products via their tile, stone and paving showrooms and the pool equipment wholesale supply stores.

The different options available to purchase a HIDE product are:
1. Head to the DISTRIBUTORS list on our web site to find your closest HIDE supplier.
2. Call your local distributor to check availability.
3. Your pool tiler or builder may supply the HIDE product as part of the full pool project.

How much does a HIDE product cost?

HIDE products represent excellent value for money. You receive a quality, long-life product with a high-grade finish and no-fuss installation.
For prices on individual items, please contact your DISTRIBUTOR directly.
Or head to the WHERE TO PURCHASE to find your closest HIDE supplier.

What landscaping materials can be fitted into a HIDE lid?

A standard HIDE lid can be fitted with any suitable materials including:
• materials as thin as 8mm through to 62mm thick
• pavers, stone, ceramic and porcelain tiles
• wet-pour concrete
• artificial grass
• timber decking
• HIDE manufactures a specific lid designed for wet-pour concrete

For a totally seamless look, multiple types of landscaping materials can also be fitted into the one lid. Grout lines can also be continued through tiles/stone installed in the cover. Head to the HIDE RANGE page to see photographic examples of the seamless integration which can be achieved with a HIDE lid.

Can I replace my current skimmer or landscape lid (retrofit) with a HIDE lid?

In most cases, you can indeed – HIDE lids can be retrofitted.
Install instructions for fitting a HIDE are included in every HIDE kit. They can also be accessed on the HIDE INSTALLATION page. In most instances, it is a simple and easy job for a professional contractor.

Please be mindful, that if retrofitting a HIDE product, you will need to fill the lid with the material which matches the rest of your landscaped area (to achieve a seamless finish). Your existing area may be tiled, or paved, in which case you will need a matching tile/paver. If you do not have a spare paver/tile on hand, please contact your tile supplier, to locate a new tile which may be a close match.

HIDE can custom manufacture a cover in a specific size to suit your needs if a standard size does not suit. (See the CUSTOM HIDE FAQ below for further information.)

My current loose-stone Skimmer Cover keeps breaking.  Can I replace it (retrofit) with a HIDE Skimmer Cover?

Yes, indeed, you can! We'd love to see your pool area fitted with a shiny new HIDE Lid!

If your current loosely fitted cover was cut initially by your pool tiler or builder, a new square recess could easily be cut (by a contractor) over the existing skimmer to allow for a HIDE cover. In most cases, the new recess area can be cut to accommodate an existing HIDE Kit size. However, if it cannot, HIDE can easily manufacture a custom-size lid to fit (see the CUSTOM HIDE FAQ below for further information).

Please allow extra time for the custom skimmer lid to be supplied. There will be a slightly higher cost involved due to the one-off manufacturing process.

Please be mindful, that if retrofitting a HIDE cover, you will need to fill the lid with the material which matches the rest of your landscaped area (to achieve a seamless finish). Your existing area may be tiled, or paved, in which case you will need a matching tile/paver. If you do not have a spare paver/tile on hand, please contact your tile supplier, to locate a new tile which may be a close match.

Does the skimmer box have to be directly under the centre of the HIDE Edge Protector?

No, it doesn’t have to be centred. If the leaf basket can be removed and the four corners under the Edge Protector are supported, then installation can be off-centre.

Can I have a custom sized HIDE lid made?

Of course – that is no problem! HIDE manufactures our range of lids at our HQ in Brisbane, Australia.
Firstly, we will need to know the size of the lid you require. We can then manufacture a custom-size HIDE lid to suit your needs. Please contact us if you'd like to inquire about a custom-made HIDE lid. We are happy to walk you through the process – it’s an easy and affordable solution, so be sure to talk to us today. Toll-Free 1844 500 HIDE (4433)
Please allow extra time for the completed lid to be supplied. There will be a slightly higher cost involved due to the one-off manufacturing process.

I’ve lost my Safety Key, can I order a replacement?

Yes, you can, but in most cases, you will need to show proof of purchase to purchase a single key! If your key breaks, you can contact HIDE Head Office to arrange for a replacement free of charge. (Proof of purchasing your HIDE Kit and photo of broken key may be required). Call Toll-Free 1844 500 HIDE (4433). Please view the available range of replacement SAFETY KEYS.
If you are unsure of what type of key you require, please contact us for assistance.

Is it easy to clean and maintain a HIDE Lid?

Most definitely - we've made the process cost effective and stress-free! Please see our CORRECT USE AND CARE page for complete information.

Who do I contact if my HIDE product is damaged or faulty?

There are several options available if you feel the HIDE product is not performing how it should. (Remember the warranty only applies to the HIDE stainless steel components, not the inlay materials).
Contact your pool builder or HIDE installer. Or call and speak to our team during business hours on Toll-Free 1844 500 HIDE (4433)
However, if you’d like to contact us as the first option, please feel free to do so. We’re always happy to hear from customers and will do our best to help solve any issues. Toll-Free 1844 500 HIDE (4433)

My existing skimmer opening is round and HIDE Covers are square, will a HIDE product still work?

Yes, HIDE Covers are square in design to suit the square tiles sitting on the surface. This is much easier for the tiler to cut and provides a seamless finish where it counts, blending in with the surrounding landscape.