The Complete European Guide to HIDE Exterior Covers

HIDE Exterior Covers offer a discreet way to conceal skimmer boxes, drains, inspection points and other outdoor services beneath the surrounding surface finish.

Instead of interrupting a pool surround, terrace or landscaped area with an exposed plastic lid, metal grate or utility hatch, a HIDE Cover holds the same tile, stone, paving or other suitable finish used around it. The service remains accessible, but the cover becomes part of the design.

This guide explains how HIDE Exterior Covers work, their safety and architectural benefits, how to select the correct size and depth, what is currently available in Europe, and how to order through hidecovers.com or an authorised European distributor.

Important: This guide applies to Europe only.

HIDE product availability differs between Europe, Australia, New Zealand and North America. Australia has access to the widest HIDE range, while the European range is newer and currently includes a selected number of popular products. European stock will continue to develop as HIDE and its distributors learn which sizes, depths and applications are most in demand.

Table of Contents

1. What are HIDE Exterior Covers?
2. Why are traditional service covers difficult to integrate?
3. What are the safety benefits of HIDE Covers?
4. What are the architectural benefits of HIDE Covers?
5. How does a HIDE Cover protect the inlay material?
6. What can a HIDE Cover be installed over?
7. Does the HIDE Cover need to match the opening underneath?
8. What types of HIDE Covers are available in Europe?
9. How do HIDE Cover sizes work?
10. What do the dimensions in the technical drawings mean?
11. How do HIDE Cover depths work?
12. Which HIDE products are currently stocked in Europe?
13. Why are some options greyed out on hidecovers.com?
14. Can I request a size that is not currently available?
15. What materials can be installed inside a HIDE Cover?
16. How are HIDE Covers installed?
17. Can HIDE Covers be retrofitted?
18. How is a HIDE Cover opened?
19. Are HIDE Covers suitable for public and commercial spaces?
20. Where are HIDE Covers manufactured?
21. What awards has HIDE received?
22. How should stainless steel HIDE Covers be maintained?
23. How can I order HIDE Covers in Europe?
24. Can I purchase through a European distributor?
25. Where are European online orders dispatched from?
26. How long does European delivery take?
27. How do VAT and import charges work?
28. What happens if an order arrives damaged or incorrect?
29. What is the European returns process?
30. What warranty applies to HIDE products in Europe?
31. How can I become a HIDE distributor?
32. Who can help me select the right cover?
33. Frequently asked questions

What are HIDE Exterior Covers?

HIDE Exterior Covers are removable inlay covers designed to conceal outdoor service points while maintaining access for inspection and maintenance.

A typical HIDE Kit consists of:

• A removable stainless steel inlay lid
• A surrounding stainless steel Edge Protector
• The HIDE Safety Key
• The components and adhesive required for the selected installation

The installer places the chosen surface material inside the lid. This may be the same tile, stone, paving, decking or other approved material used around the cover.

Once completed, the surface finish continues across the lid, helping the service point blend into the surrounding area.

HIDE supplies the cover system. The visible inlay material is selected and installed locally as part of the project.

Why are traditional service covers difficult to integrate?

Pool skimmer lids, inspection hatches, drainage grates and utility covers are generally designed for function rather than appearance.

They often introduce:

• A different material
• A contrasting colour
• A raised edge
• A visible plastic or metal grate
• An interruption to tile or paving patterns
• An obvious utility element within an otherwise finished space

These interruptions can be particularly noticeable in architectural pools, landscaped courtyards, terraces, resorts, hotels and premium residential projects.

A HIDE Cover allows the surrounding finish to continue through the access point, creating a more considered result without permanently sealing the service below.

What are the safety benefits of HIDE Covers?

HIDE Covers help address several practical safety considerations within pedestrian environments.

How can a HIDE Cover help reduce trip hazards?

A correctly installed HIDE Cover sits flush with the surrounding finished surface.

This helps avoid raised lids, protruding handles and uneven edges that may create a trip point.

Slip and trip risks are a growing consideration in modern built environments and are commonly assessed during architectural specification, accessibility planning and project risk reviews.

The complete installation must still be correctly levelled and supported by the surrounding substrate.

How can a HIDE Cover help reduce slip hazards?

A HIDE lid can be filled with the same suitably rated tile, stone, paver or other approved surface material used around it.

This avoids introducing a separate smooth plastic or exposed metal surface into the pedestrian area.

The slip resistance of the completed cover depends on:

• The selected inlay material
• Its slip-resistance classification
• The quality of installation
• Surface contamination
• Cleaning and maintenance
• The intended environment

Architects and installers should select an inlay material with a slip-resistance rating appropriate for the location, particularly around pools and other wet areas.

Why is the cover difficult to open without the Safety Key?

A correctly installed HIDE Cover has no exposed handle and no practical grasping point.

The lid is lifted using the dedicated HIDE Safety Key, which engages with the patented keyway.

This helps discourage children, members of the public and other unauthorised users from lifting the cover casually.

It can be particularly beneficial in:

• Residential pool surrounds
• Family homes
• Resorts and hotels
• Shared residential developments
• Public landscaped areas
• Hospitality venues
• Pedestrian spaces

The Safety Key should be stored securely and made available to the property owner, facility manager or authorised service technician.

Are HIDE Covers suitable for vehicle traffic?

Standard HIDE Exterior Covers are intended for pedestrian applications.

They should not be installed in vehicle traffic areas unless the particular product and complete installation have received appropriate written engineering approval.

What are the architectural benefits of HIDE Covers?

HIDE Covers help resolve a common design problem: retaining access to essential services without allowing the access point to dominate the finished space.

A more continuous surface

The same or a coordinating tile, stone, paver or other finish can continue into the lid.

This allows patterns, material selections and grout lines to remain visually consistent.

Less visual clutter

Traditional lids, grates and service caps can interrupt otherwise clean architectural lines.

HIDE Covers help conceal these service points while retaining the access required for maintenance.

Flush integration

A correctly installed lid sits level with the surrounding finish, supporting a more consistent pedestrian surface.

Greater flexibility around the service opening

The HIDE Cover does not normally need to be the exact size or shape of the opening below.

This gives the architect or installer more freedom to select a cover according to:

• The amount of access required
• The surrounding surface layout
• The available installation area
• The desired visual proportions
• The type and thickness of the inlay material

Suitable for repeated specification

HIDE’s automated manufacturing process supports accurate and repeatable production.

Architects and specifiers can discuss future projects, expected quantities and required delivery dates with HIDE, even where a particular product is not currently held as standard European stock.

Because the European range is still developing, early discussion is recommended for large projects or future specifications.

How does a HIDE Cover protect the inlay material?

Porcelain, natural stone and other architectural finishes can be brittle, particularly when they are cut into a removable access panel.

The HIDE lid supports the inlay using 2 mm 316L stainless steel on five sides:

• Across the base of the inlay
• Along each of the four sides

This tray-style construction helps protect the material against:

• Unsupported movement
• Edge impact
• Chipping
• Cracking
• Breakage during normal use and removal

The surrounding Edge Protector also helps protect the finished edges around the removable lid.

Correct cutting, adhesive coverage and installation remain important. The inlay material must be suitable for the location and securely bonded inside the lid.

What can a HIDE Cover be installed over?

HIDE Covers can be used over many types of outdoor service points, including:

• Swimming pool skimmer boxes
• Pool water-level control points
• Plumbing inspection openings
• Irrigation valves
• Lighting junctions
• Drainage pits
• Drainage outlets
• Service pits
• Utility access points
• Existing access hatches
• Round screw caps
• Small equipment openings

The product category indicates its most common application, but it does not necessarily restrict how the product can be used.

For example, a HIDE Skimmer Cover may also be suitable above another service point where its dimensions and access opening are appropriate.

The final selection should consider the opening below, access requirements, inlay material, site conditions and surrounding construction.

Does the HIDE Cover need to match the opening underneath?

No. A HIDE Cover does not normally need to be the same size or shape as the service point below it.

The HIDE system becomes the finished surface treatment above the original opening.

A square HIDE Cover may therefore be installed above:

• A round screw cap
• A smaller plastic skimmer lid
• A rectangular inspection opening
• An irregular service point
• A smaller hatch
• A plumbing or irrigation opening

The important requirements are that:

1. The HIDE frame is properly supported.
2. The frame fits within the available finished area.
3. The clear opening provides sufficient access to the service below.
4. The surrounding construction can accommodate the frame depth.
5. Drainage, ventilation and normal servicing are not obstructed.

Selecting a larger cover can provide more room for hands, tools and removable equipment.

What types of HIDE Covers are available in Europe?

The developing European range includes several HIDE product categories.

HIDE Skimmer Covers

HIDE Skimmer Covers are commonly installed above swimming pool skimmer boxes.

They conceal the traditional plastic skimmer lid while preserving access to the basket and skimmer components.

HIDE Access Covers

HIDE Access Covers can be installed over inspection points, plumbing services, irrigation valves, lighting connections and other external access requirements.

HIDE Drain Covers

HIDE Drain Covers conceal drainage points while retaining a designed perimeter gap through which surface water can enter.

They provide an alternative to exposed plastic or metal drainage grates.

HIDE Manhole Covers

HIDE Manhole Covers are larger-format access covers for service pits and substantial openings where greater access is required.

HIDE Concrete Covers

HIDE Concrete Covers - Selected deeper HIDE kits can be prepared for an appropriate wet-pour concrete finish.

The surrounding concrete surface can continue into the removable lid while access remains available below.

How do HIDE Cover sizes work?

The advertised size generally refers to the external dimensions of the HIDE frame.

For example:

• A 206 mm kit has a frame measuring approximately 206 × 206 mm.
• A 306 mm kit has a frame measuring approximately 306 × 306 mm.
• A 412 mm kit has a frame measuring approximately 412 × 412 mm.
• A 506 mm kit has a frame measuring approximately 506 × 506 mm.
• A 656 mm kit has a frame measuring approximately 656 × 656 mm.

There are three horizontal measurements to consider.

What is the external frame size?

This is the overall footprint of the installed HIDE Kit.

The surrounding substrate must provide enough room and structural support for the complete frame.

What is the inlay lid size?

This is the removable stainless steel tray that holds the chosen surface material.

It is slightly smaller than the external frame.

What is the access opening?

The access opening is the clear space available after the removable lid has been lifted.

This measurement determines how much room is available to inspect or service what lies below.

A product should not be selected from its external size alone. The clear access opening must also be suitable for the service requirement.

Image is an example of the six depths, ranging from 10mm to 60mm in thickness

What do the dimensions in the technical drawings mean?

HIDE cross-sectional drawings use letter references to identify the main dimensions.

The drawings illustrate how the inlay material, adhesive, removable lid and surrounding Edge Protector sit within the finished surface.

They also show why the external frame size is larger than the service opening below.

HIDE Skimmer Cover cross-sectional installation drawing

Below: Cross-sectional view showing the inlay material, adhesive, removable stainless steel lid, surrounding Edge Protector and access opening above the skimmer box.

HIDE Access Cover cross-sectional installation drawing

Below: Cross-sectional view showing how a HIDE Access Cover is supported within the surrounding finished surface.

HIDE Drain Cover cross-sectional installation drawing

Below: Cross-sectional view showing the inlay lid positioned above a drainage opening while retaining service access and perimeter water entry.

HIDE Concrete Cover cross-sectional installation drawing

Below: Cross-sectional view showing the wet-pour concrete configuration within the removable HIDE lid.

How do HIDE Cover depths work?

The final number in a HIDE product code identifies the nominal material-depth category.

For example, the 20 in HAC206-20 indicates a product intended for inlay materials within the corresponding 20 mm category.

The number is nominal rather than an exact internal measurement.

HIDE lids include additional internal space to accommodate the supplied adhesive and reasonable variation in tile and natural stone.

For example, HAC206-20 is intended for an inlay material within the published 15–22 mm range. Its actual internal lid depth is approximately 23 mm, allowing room for the supplied adhesive and material variation.

The installer should measure the actual material before ordering. This is particularly important where:

• Natural stone varies in thickness
• The underside of the material is uneven
• The material has been manually cut
• A different adhesive or bedding method is proposed
• The inlay contains significant natural variation

The completed inlay should sit securely within the stainless steel tray and should not project above its surrounding edge.

What is the deepest HIDE Cover?

Across the wider international HIDE range, nominal depths extend to 60 mm.

A 60 mm nominal product is the deepest standard HIDE Cover produced.

Where material is thicker than the available lid, it may be more practical to have the underside of the stone or paver cut down or rebated.

Using an unnecessarily thick inlay can make the completed lid difficult to lift. The total weight of the lid and inlay should remain manageable for the person who will need to access the service point.

European availability is currently limited to selected products and depths. The active options on hidecovers.com should be checked before ordering.

Which HIDE products are currently stocked in Europe?

Europe is a new and developing market for HIDE.

The initial European warehouse range focuses on selected sizes and depths expected to suit common pool, landscape and exterior construction applications.

HIDE Access Covers currently stocked in Europe

The larger 506 mm and 656 mm covers may also be described as HIDE Manhole Covers because they provide a larger service opening.

HIDE Drain Covers currently stocked in Europe

HIDE Skimmer Covers currently stocked in Europe

Stock quantities and online availability can change as products are sold and new shipments arrive.

The live, active selections on hidecovers.com should always be treated as the current source for online purchasing availability.

Why are some options greyed out on hidecovers.com?

The European website displays more of the wider HIDE range than is currently held in European stock.

This gives homeowners, contractors, architects, specifiers and distributors an understanding of the additional products that may be considered for Europe.

On hidecovers.com:

• Active selections are currently available to purchase online.
• Greyed-out selections are not currently available for online purchase.
• Greyed-out products remain visible so customers can identify possible future requirements.

This distinction is important because the European range is still developing.

HIDE and its distributors are learning:

• Which external sizes are most frequently required
• Which depths suit European materials
• Which products suit local pool and landscape construction
• Which countries have the greatest demand
• Which applications require larger access openings
• Which products distributors should hold locally

More stock and additional sizes are expected to be introduced as this information develops.

Can I request a size that is not currently available?

Yes.

Customers, installers, architects, specifiers and distributors are encouraged to contact HIDE about products shown on the website that are not currently active for purchase.

Expressions of interest help HIDE determine which products should be included in future European shipments.

Include as much of the following information as possible:

• Product category
• Preferred size
• Required nominal depth
• Actual material thickness
• Type of service point
• Dimensions of the opening below
• Intended surface finish
• Country and project location
• Quantity required
• Expected project date
• Whether the enquiry is for a homeowner, contractor, architect or distributor
• Whether the product is needed for one project or repeated use

Email expressions of interest to:

info@hidecovers.com

An expression of interest does not guarantee a specific delivery date, but it helps HIDE plan future European stock.

What materials can be installed inside a HIDE Cover?

Depending on the product and installation method, HIDE Covers may be finished with:

• Porcelain tile
• Ceramic tile
• Natural stone
• Pavers
• Timber decking
• Composite decking
• Artificial grass
• Selected concrete finishes
• Exposed aggregate installed using the appropriate system

The inlay must be:

• Suitable for the location
• Suitable for pedestrian use
• Securely bonded inside the lid
• Within the published material-thickness range
• Appropriate for exposure to water and the surrounding environment

The installer should consider material thickness, weight, slip resistance, adhesive requirements, movement, edge finishing and the need to remove the lid later.

Loose stone or unsecured fill should not be installed inside the lid.

How are HIDE Covers installed?

A HIDE Cover should be installed by a suitably experienced contractor as part of the surrounding tiling, paving, decking, concrete or landscape work.

The general installation process is:

1. Identify and measure the service point.
2. Determine the clear access required.
3. Select a suitable HIDE frame size.
4. Confirm the available area around the opening.
5. Measure the actual inlay material.
6. Select the appropriate material-depth category.
7. Prepare the surrounding substrate.
8. Recess, support and level the Edge Protector.
9. Cut the selected inlay material.
10. Bond the material inside the removable lid.
11. Align patterns and joints where practical.
12. Confirm the finished lid sits flush.
13. Test removal using the HIDE Safety Key.
14. Confirm the service below remains accessible.

The overall Edge Protector depth is greater than the internal lid depth.

For example:

• A 20 mm category lid has an internal depth of approximately 23 mm.
• The corresponding frame depth is approximately 33 mm.

The surrounding substrate must be prepared to accommodate the full frame depth.

Always follow the installation instructions supplied for the specific product.

Can HIDE Covers be retrofitted?

Yes. HIDE Covers may be used in renovation projects as well as new construction.

Watch this 5-minute video of a retrofit

In many retrofit installations, the existing plastic skimmer lid, inspection cover or screw cap remains below the new HIDE Cover.

The HIDE system is installed above it as part of the renovated finished surface.

Before proceeding, the installer should confirm that:

• There is enough surrounding space for the frame.
• The substrate can be recessed to the required depth.
• The frame can be fully supported.
• The selected access opening is large enough.
• The original service remains functional.
• Drainage and ventilation are not obstructed.
• The surrounding finish can be reinstated correctly.
• If the cover is being installed close to a swimming pool, earthing or bonding of the frame is achievable where required.

Earthing and bonding requirements can vary according to the project, local regulations and the position of the cover. The builder should confirm the installation requirements with a licensed electrician before work begins.

Pool renovations are a common application because the system can conceal a faded, damaged or visually intrusive plastic skimmer lid without necessarily replacing the entire skimmer box.

How is a HIDE Cover opened?

The removable lid is opened using the HIDE Safety Key.

The key engages with the purpose-designed keyway and provides the lifting point required to remove the lid.

The opening method depends on the depth of the HIDE Kit:

• Lids in the 10 mm, 20 mm and 30 mm inlay-depth categories are pivoted open using one Safety Key.
• Deeper lids in the 40 mm, 50 mm and 60 mm inlay-depth categories are lifted vertically using two Safety Keys.

Using two keys for the deeper kits helps provide a more controlled and balanced lift, which is particularly important because thicker inlay materials can increase the total weight of the completed lid.

There is no exposed handle and no easy grasping point on a correctly installed cover.

After servicing, the lid is returned to the Edge Protector so it again sits flush with the surrounding finished surface.

The Safety Key or keys should be handed to the owner or facility manager and stored in a secure, accessible location.

Are HIDE Covers suitable for public and commercial spaces?

HIDE Covers may be used in pedestrian areas within residential and commercial projects when correctly selected and installed.

Potential applications include:

• Hotels
• Resorts
• Public pool surrounds
• Apartment developments
• Hospitality venues
• Courtyards
• Landscaped pedestrian areas
• Shared outdoor spaces

Their flush finish, concealed lifting method and ability to accept a suitably rated inlay material can make them valuable in areas where visual consistency, pedestrian safety and controlled service access are important.

The architect, specifier and installer remain responsible for confirming that the selected product, inlay material, supporting substrate and installation method are appropriate for the intended project.

Where are HIDE Covers manufactured?

HIDE Exterior Covers are Australian-made. See the video of HIDE Covers being made in the factory - Brisbane, Australia

The HIDE manufacturing line uses 14 robots to produce stainless steel lids and Edge Protectors with repeatable accuracy and controlled quality.

The automated process supports:

• Accurate cutting
• Precise folding
• Consistent dimensions
• Repeatable component fit
• High-quality fabrication
• Reliable production across larger quantities

This manufacturing capacity enables HIDE to supply significant quantities for architectural developments and repeated project requirements.

European warehouse stock is still developing, so architects and specifiers should contact HIDE early when planning a project that requires a specific product, depth or quantity.

What awards has HIDE received?

HIDE has received industry recognition for product innovation, manufacturing and its contribution to the pool and landscape sectors.

Best New Pool Building Product — 2019

HIDE received the Best New Pool Building Product award at the 2019 International Pool, Spa and Patio Expo in New Orleans.

Supplier of the Year — 2025

HIDE was named Supplier of the Year by The Landscape Association in 2025.

Best New Product — 2025

HIDE also received Best New Product recognition from The Landscape Association in 2025.

These awards recognise HIDE’s approach to combining service access, safety, durability and a more integrated architectural finish.

How should stainless steel HIDE Covers be maintained?

HIDE Covers are manufactured from 316L stainless steel, but stainless steel still requires regular care.

To help maintain the product:

• Rinse exposed stainless steel regularly with clean, fresh water.
• Remove dirt, salt and chemical residue.
• Clean more frequently around pools and coastal environments.
• Do not expose the stainless steel to acid washing.
• Do not use bleach or aggressive acidic cleaning products.
• Avoid abrasive tools that may damage the surface.
• Follow the HIDE Care and Maintenance Guide.
• Provide maintenance instructions to the owner at project handover.

Construction chemicals, pool chemicals and airborne salt should not be allowed to remain on the stainless steel surface.

How can I order HIDE Covers in Europe?

European customers can purchase HIDE products:

1. Directly through hidecovers.com, where the required option is active.
2. Through an authorised European HIDE distributor or reseller.

When ordering through hidecovers.com:

1. Select the product category.
2. Choose the external frame size.
3. Choose the required material-depth category.
4. Confirm that the selection is active.
5. Review the dimensions and access opening.
6. Measure the actual inlay material.
7. Review shipping and tax information.
8. Complete payment.
9. Retain the order confirmation and proof of purchase.

A greyed-out option is not currently available to purchase online.

Customers may register interest in a greyed-out option by emailing info@hidecovers.com.

Can I purchase through a European distributor?

Yes. HIDE already works with distributors in several European markets and is continuing to expand its distributor network.

Current European distributors include:

Distributor inventory may differ from the stock available through hidecovers.com.

A distributor may:

• Carry only selected products
• Hold different quantities
• Focus on locally relevant sizes
• Order additional stock according to demand
• Use its own delivery arrangements
• Apply its own return procedures

Customers should contact the relevant distributor directly to confirm stock, pricing and delivery.

Like HIDE, distributors are still learning which products and applications are most in demand within their markets.

Where are European online orders dispatched from?

Orders placed directly through hidecovers.com are fulfilled through HIDE’s European warehouse partner:

TERRATRANS Internationale Spedition GmbH
Ludwig-Erhard-Str. 40A
D-28197 Bremen
Germany

This warehouse is also used for authorised returns of eligible hidecovers.com purchases.

Products purchased from a distributor are dispatched according to that distributor’s arrangements.

How long does European delivery take?

HIDE aims to process and dispatch hidecovers.com orders within one to two business days, excluding weekends and public holidays.

Estimated delivery times after dispatch are:

These are estimates rather than guaranteed delivery dates.

Remote destinations, carrier delays, peak periods, public holidays and customs processes may affect delivery. Tracking details are provided where available.

How do VAT and import charges work?

For deliveries within the EU or EEA, VAT is calculated according to the customer’s location and included at checkout where required.

For destinations outside the EU or EEA, including Norway and Switzerland, additional charges may apply.

These can include:

• Import duties
• Local taxes
• Customs charges
• Carrier administration fees

Shipping costs and applicable checkout information are displayed before payment is completed.

What happens if an order arrives damaged or incorrect?

Customers should inspect their order promptly after delivery.

For a hidecovers.com order that is damaged, incomplete or incorrect, email:

admin@hidecovers.com

Include:

• The order number
• A description of the issue
• Photographs of the product
• Photographs of the packaging
• Details of missing components

Do not install, alter or use a product that appears damaged, faulty or incorrectly supplied before contacting HIDE.

For products purchased through a distributor, contact the original distributor first. HIDE may provide technical support where required.

What is the European returns process?

Returns are handled by the original place of purchase.

Orders purchased through hidecovers.com

Contact HIDE before returning any product.

The usual process is:

1. Email admin@hidecovers.com with the order details.
2. Receive return authorisation and instructions.
3. Pack the product securely.
4. Include all supplied parts and documentation.
5. Clearly identify the authorised return.
6. Use a suitable tracked freight service.
7. Retain proof of shipment.

For eligible consumer withdrawals, the refund may include the returned product price and the cost of the least expensive standard outbound delivery option.

Additional premium or express delivery costs are generally not refundable.

Unless the goods are faulty, damaged or incorrectly supplied, the customer is generally responsible for the direct cost of return freight where this was disclosed before purchase.

Products purchased through a distributor

Returns, cancellations and credits must be requested from the distributor or reseller that supplied the product.

The seller’s return policy and applicable local consumer law will apply.

Consumer and business purchases

European consumer withdrawal rights generally apply to private consumer purchases.

They do not generally apply to products purchased for trade, professional, installation, business or resale purposes.

Trade and distributor returns may therefore be subject to separate commercial terms.

What warranty applies to HIDE products in Europe?

European HIDE stainless steel products carry a 10-year HIDE commercial product warranty, subject to correct selection, installation, use, care and maintenance.

The HIDE warranty is additional to any mandatory statutory rights that apply to the customer.

Warranty coverage may be affected by:

• Incorrect installation
• Unsuitable use
• Failure to maintain the stainless steel
• Acid or chemical washing
• Unauthorised alterations
• Incorrect inlay installation
• Unsuitable loading
• Use outside the intended pedestrian application

Customers should retain proof of purchase and relevant installation information.

How can I become a HIDE distributor?

HIDE is continuing to expand its European distributor network.

Potential partners may include:

• Pool product distributors
• Pool equipment suppliers
• Tile and stone suppliers
• Landscape product suppliers
• Building-product distributors
• Trade supply businesses
• Drainage specialists
• Architectural product suppliers

Businesses interested in discussing a European distribution opportunity can contact:

info@hidecovers.com

Include information about the business, its market, existing customer base, relevant product categories and likely demand.

Who can help me select the right cover?

Before contacting HIDE or a distributor, collect as much of the following information as possible:

• Type of service point
• Size and shape of the opening
• Required access for maintenance
• Available area around the opening
• Actual tile, stone or paver thickness
• Adhesive or bedding requirements
• Intended finished surface
• Country and project location
• Quantity required
• Expected project date
• Photographs, plans or drawings

For product selection, future-stock enquiries and distribution opportunities:

info@hidecovers.com

For orders, shipping, returns and customer-service enquiries:

admin@hidecovers.com

HIDE aims to respond to customer-support enquiries within two business days.

Frequently Asked Questions About HIDE Covers in Europe

Are all HIDE products available in Europe?

No. Europe currently carries a selected range of popular sizes and depths.

Australia has the widest HIDE range. Europe is a newer market, and the local range will grow as HIDE learns which products are most frequently required.

What does a greyed-out product option mean?

A greyed-out selection is not currently available for online purchase in Europe.

It remains visible to show the wider potential range and allow customers to express interest.

Is the current warehouse selection the complete European range?

No. It represents products currently stocked or active for purchase.

Additional products may be added as demand develops.

Can a distributor hold different products from hidecovers.com?

Yes. Distributor stock is managed separately and may differ from European online warehouse stock.

Does the HIDE Cover need to match the service opening?

No. The cover sits above the original service point and may be larger than the opening below.

The clear access opening must still be large enough for inspection and servicing.

What is the difference between the frame size and access opening?

The frame size is the overall external footprint of the HIDE Kit.

The access opening is the clear space available after the removable lid has been lifted.

Should I choose the depth from the product code alone?

No. Use the published material-thickness range and measure the actual inlay material before ordering.

The lid includes additional depth for the supplied adhesive and normal material variation.

Does HIDE supply the tile or stone?

No. HIDE supplies the stainless steel cover system.

The inlay material is selected and installed locally.

Can HIDE Covers help reduce slip risks?

They can help avoid introducing a separate smooth lid into the surrounding surface.

The final slip performance depends on the selected inlay material, its rating, installation and maintenance.

Can HIDE Covers help reduce trip risks?

A correctly installed HIDE Cover sits flush with the surrounding finished surface, helping avoid raised edges and protruding handles.

Can the lid be lifted without the Safety Key?

A correctly installed HIDE lid has no practical grasping point.

It is intended to be lifted using the HIDE Safety Key.

How does HIDE protect porcelain and natural stone?

The inlay is supported across its base and four sides by a 2 mm 316L stainless steel tray.

This five-sided support helps protect the material from edge impact, unsupported movement and breakage.

Can HIDE Covers be installed over existing skimmer lids?

In many projects, yes.

The HIDE Cover can often be installed above the existing service opening, provided there is enough space and the frame can be properly supported.

Are HIDE Covers only for swimming pools?

No. They may also conceal irrigation points, plumbing services, inspection openings, drainage points, lighting junctions and other exterior services.

Can vehicles drive over standard HIDE Covers?

No. Standard HIDE Exterior Covers are intended for pedestrian applications.

Where are HIDE Covers manufactured?

HIDE Covers are manufactured in Australia using an automated production line that includes 14 robots.

Where are European online orders shipped from?

Orders placed through hidecovers.com are fulfilled from the European warehouse in Bremen, Germany.

Can architects enquire about products for future projects?

Yes. Architects and specifiers should contact HIDE early with the product, quantity, project location and expected delivery date.

Can I request an unavailable size for a future shipment?

Yes. Send the product type, size, depth, application, country, quantity and expected timeframe to info@hidecovers.com.