Pool fencing is as important as your pool buying. A pool fence offers pool safety and prevents unauthorised access while enhancing the overall appeal. It is important to know the pool fencing regulations in your state and abide by them. These rules are in place to ensure enhanced people safety and prevent drownings.
Please note that a swimming pool installation is never complete without a fence. Besides protecting your kids and pets, a pool fence adds to the aesthetics, provided you make the right fence choice.
Here is a complete guide to pool fencing.
Why do you need a pool fence?
- A pool fence is a barrier that prevents third persons from accessing your pool without your permission. It works just like the barriers you have placed in your garden. In this case, the fence protects your swimming pool. You can further lock the fence gates to enforce better control.
- Children have this urge to often enter the pool water. They try to divert adult attention and find ways to enter the pool area. Installing a fence can avoid them entering into the pool to some extent.
- You cannot always supervise your pets. Cats and dogs, in particular, are very mischievous and tend to run everywhere most of the time. Playing comes naturally to them. This could be extremely dangerous if you have a pool within your premises. A fence is, therefore, a must-have.
- Pool decks are generally wet and slippery. When small kids or aged adults walk over the deck edges, they might slip and fall into the pool, and suffer injuries. Installing a fence can prevent such accidents.
- Law enforcing authorities carry out inspections, and if your pool doesn’t have a fence or the fence does not comply with the state regulations, you will be fined.
- Pool fence can also offer privacy. Choosing an opaque material such as wood can provide complete privacy, allowing you and your family to have great pool time without you having to bother about your neighbours’ peeps.
- You can enhance the aesthetics of your pool by choosing a pool fence that complements your pool and backyard. Go with a mix of metal and wood if your space is tropically themed or choose a complete metal fence if your sole concern is safety. We suggest you choose unique designs that can seamlessly sync with your property.
Adhere to the pool fence regulations: Features of a good pool fence
While the pool fence regulations vary with the state you reside in, there are a few basic criteria that apply to all pool owners regardless of their location.
- Your pool fencing should at least be 1200 mm high.
- The top of your pool fence should at least be 900 mm away from objects such as trees, toys, pergolas, furniture and pot plants that support climbing.
- Any gaps in your pool fence should be less than 100 mm.
- The pool fence should be strong and durable. An appealing but delicate fence material will not serve the purpose of fencing.
- The pool fence should come with self-closing gates that swing off the pool.
- Gate latches should be on the pool-side.
Pool fencing is mandatory for all above-ground and below-ground pools. It should be a permanent structure. However, if you are using a boundary fence as a pool barrier, make sure it stands at least 1800 mm.
If you are least aware of the pool fence regulations in your state, check with your pool fence installer and get to know the prevalent rules.
We suggest you gather all the information about pool fencing regulations before getting your hands on fibreglass pool designing. This allows you to plan your pool layout, pool shape, spacing, and design precisely.
General pool safety rules pool owners must know
Even with the best of guidelines and fencing, there is a small amount of risk around water bodies. It is for this reason pool owners should be well-prepared to take on any emergency. To ensure safety and provide a secure pool environment, here are guidelines designed to help pool owners.
- Ensure to comply with your state’s pool fencing regulations.
- Installing a pool fence doesn’t mean you can leave your children and pets unmonitored in the pool. Adult supervision is always recommended when kids are in/around the pool.
- Do not allow any child to play around the pool when you cannot supervise, even if the child is a good swimmer.
- Provide your children with swimming lessons if you have installed/are planning to install a pool in your backyard.
- Take a CPR course so that you will be ready to deal with an emergency.
- Put up a board with resuscitation instructions on your pool fence.
- If you have installed a shallow pool, ensure to display a ‘no-diving’ instruction or sign.
- Do not leave climbable objects near the pool.
- Avoid consuming alcohol when monitoring children in/around your fibreglass pool.
How to buy and install a pool fence?
First of all, please note that ignorance is not an excuse. You should learn about your state’s pool fence regulations and install the fence accordingly.
- When you are looking to buy fencing materials, do not simply buy everything a supplier asked you to. Check with your pool builder, understand A-Z of fencing and buy only what and how much is required.
- Seek a professional service. Compare the prices of a few renowned fence installers, check their reviews and then go ahead with hiring one. Many people try to install a pool fence on their own and regret later. Pool fencing demands experience, skills and professionalism which reputed fence installers possess. Some top pool manufacturers also provide fencing service for an added cost.
Remember, all the pool fencing regulations are enforced for your own safety. You are mandated to follow them for your good. Do not ignore these rules. Comply with them and ensure safety for your entire family.
Now you know what a pool fence is and why it is important, start exploring the fencing options and look for a professional pool fencing service. Assure enhanced safety for your family and enjoy your fibreglass pool time without tensions!
