i installed my 16x32 ig saftey cover myself. I went with a mesh but wish i went solid. I chose mesh on price, but also weight, since a solid cover is very heavy to handle. I feel that with a solid cover you get less algae growth potential in the spring before you open the pool. I know if you keep the chorine up you probally wont have any issues, but i always neglect to do this.
Other than that reason, mesh is not a bad option.
It was a little bit difficult to drill and measure it out but well worth the savings