Is the spa raised?

Scott

yes the spa is raised 14". They have an "up and over" option, where the straps attache to the deck, or they have a cable option that attaches to the spa wall.

I would just close the pool. The up and over with wedge bolsters to fill the spaces next to the spa. The Smart Mesh is worth the extra money. Dura-Mesh lets in too much light. Smart Mesh does not stretch and relies on the springs for give when a snow load comes calling but it keeps the light out.

Put an automatic pump on the swim out step, if you have a swim out. It's usually an inch or two lower than the 1st step at the shallow end.

With a two cover system, the spa cover winds up looking like a mess. The wall treatments are just noodles, very lame. They blow away.

One other thing I don't like about Merlin is they don't like to listen to special instructions. When I measure a pool with a dive stand, one of my marks is typically centered at the edge of the pool, centered under the dive stand. When I tell Loop Loc no straps within 12" either side, they listen and Merlin doesn't. Merlin sends a dive stand kit which is a PITA.

Merlin does make a very good cover. I prefer Loop Loc's offering and service level.

Scott