Frequently Asked Questions

My current loose-stone skimmer cover keeps breaking. Can I retrofit it with a HIDE Skimmer Cover?

Yes. In most cases, a contractor can cut a new square recess over the existing skimmer opening to suit a HIDE cover. If your current lid was custom-cut by a tiler/builder, a 12" HIDE Skimmer Cover can often be accommodated depending on site conditions and surrounding finishes.

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.

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

No. The skimmer doesn’t need to be centred, as long as the skimmer basket can be removed and the four corners beneath the Edge Protector are properly supported.

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

Yes. Replacement keys are available on our Safety Keys page. Choose the HIDE Homeowner Key (the standard key supplied with every HIDE kit) or the HIDE Trade Service Key (a flat, low-cost option for pool service professionals). For safety, store keys out of reach of children If you are unsure of what type of key you require, please contact us for assistance.

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.

What is a HIDE Skimmer Cover?

A premium, inlay-style skimmer lid that lets your chosen surface finish (tile/stone/paver/decking/concrete) sit flush through the lid for a seamless look, while remaining serviceable with the HIDE Safety Key.

What other products does HIDE offer besides Skimmer Covers?

HIDE also offers Access Covers, Drain Covers, and Concrete (wet-pour) covers to conceal service access points and drainage in the same seamless style.

What size HIDE cover do I need?

Choose based on (1) the opening you need to cover and (2) your inlay thickness/depth. Your cover should fit the opening, and the depth should suit your finish (e.g., tile vs thick stone).

What depths are available for the 12" Skimmer Cover?

The 12" Skimmer Cover is available in 0.4", 0.8", 1.2", 1.6", 2.0", and 2.5" inlay depths. HIDE 1.4-2.5” depth kits include a concrete conversion pack to support wet-pour concrete finishes (where applicable).

My existing skimmer opening is round—will a square HIDE Skimmer Cover still work?

Yes. HIDE covers are square to suit typical surface modules (tile/pavers) and to make cutting cleaner and more seamless at the surface – ensure that the inside opening of the HIDE Skimmer Cover is wider than your existing skimmer box opening.

What are HIDE Skimmer Covers made from?

HIDE Covers are made from marine-grade 316L stainless steel for long-term outdoor performance and corrosion resistance.

Will a HIDE Cover match my grout lines and tile patterns?

Yes—because you install the inlay on-site, your tiler can continue grout joints/patterns straight through the lid for a near-invisible finish.

Why does HIDE use an “Edge Protector” frame?

The Edge Protector forms the external frame and helps protect surrounding coping/tiles from chipping during opening/closing, while keeping a neat perimeter joint.

Can HIDE Covers be installed in new builds and renovations?

Yes—HIDE can be installed in new landscapes and is commonly retrofitted into existing pool surrounds/outdoor areas.

Does HIDE require a contractor to install?

Yes—HIDE installation is intended for a licensed/suitably experienced contractor, and correct installation is tied to warranty conditions.

Do I need to leave a gap around the inlay (or can I grout it tight)?

Leave the specified small clearance—do not grout/fill tight between the lid frame and the inlay. This allows for normal expansion/contraction and helps prevent binding or damage.

I lost my Safety Key—can I order a replacement?

Yes—replacement keys can be purchased on the HIDE Skimmer Covers website under the Safety Key tab in products. Faulty keys may be replaced at no charge in some cases – contract admin@skimmercovers.com for warranty.

Do HIDE stainless steel covers need bonding/earthing?

Bonding/earthing requirements vary by local code and how equipotential bonding is implemented around the pool. Many guidelines reference bonding conductive items within 1.5m of the water’s edge. Always confirm requirements with a licensed electrician in your jurisdiction. All HIDE stainless steel Skimmer Lids include a pre-drilled earthing/bonding hole in the frame to allow connection of a bonding wire where required.

How do I clean and maintain my HIDE Cover?

Routine care is simple: open occasionally, remove debris, and clean stainless steel with soapy water and a nylon scourer parallel to the grain, then rinse well.
“Tea staining” is a cosmetic surface discoloration that can occur on stainless steel from residues/salts. It’s not the same as rust and is usually manageable with regular cleaning.

What are HIDE Access Covers used for?

They conceal service points like DWV, valves/meters, irrigation, electrical junction boxes, lighting connectors, termite inspection points, and more—while keeping the surface seamless.

What warranty is offered?

HIDE promotes a 10-year stainless steel warranty (with conditions, including correct installation and correct use/care).