Getting a glass pool fence installed in your home is one of the most aesthetically pleasing things you can do for your household while also ensuring the safety of your yard. If you’re planning on hiring a glass pool fencing professional, you might be wondering what the actual mechanics of the procedure are. Conversely, if you’re an enthusiastic DIYer, you might be interested in doing it yourself wholesale. Whatever group you’re in, this article will give you a detailed look into how glass pool fencing installation works. 

Why is Glass Pool Fencing so Popular?

Glass pool fencing has become immensely popular across Australia thanks to its modern look and strong durability. Unlike traditional metal fencing options, glass offers an unobtrusive view into your pool, and expands the sense of space significantly in your backyard. It also looks extremely modern, offering clean lines and a minimalist look. Another benefit is that glass and aluminum spigots are completely waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about rusting or erosion from the water. 

Another key factor is ease of cleaning. Rather than multiple fence posts, the glass panes make it extremely simple to clean. You won’t have to worry about cleaning out spiderwebs or dusting between the edges of posts any longer. Finally, they’re also highly safe due to the smooth surface of the glass and minimal gaps that make it difficult for children and pets to climb or crawl under.

Preparing the Site for Glass Pool Fence Installation

Before you can begin the glass pool fence installation, there are a series of steps you need to take first.

Firstly, you need to assess and measure your pool area to determine how many panes of glass and metal spigots you’ll need. Consider what fixings you’ll need to install the spigots, as it will be different if you’re installing over pavers or a wooden deck. Knowing the size of the glass panels, where you want to place the fence gate, and how many spigots you’ll need is key. Make sure the installation surface is completely level too, as that is also vital for a smooth installation. 

You’ll also need to make sure your build is compliant to local council regulations as well as Australian law with regard to pool fence safety. For example, the door must swing outwards away from the pool, there must be no climbable objects around the pool fence, and the gate must also be self-latching. If you’re planning on DIY-ing your glass pool fence, you will need to get your local council to approve the build, and you will also need to make sure your fence is legally certified. Meanwhile, if you partner with a pool builder, they usually take care of these steps for you.

What Do You Need for a Glass Pool Fencing Installation?

For a successful installation, make sure you have the following tools and equipment:

• Tempered glass panels (at least 1200mm high)
• Aluminum spigots
• A drill, suitable drill bits, and screws (make sure they’re compatible with the surface you’re drilling, be it wood or pavers)
• Chemical anchor (if working with pavers)
• Level
• Tape measure
• Compressed Air
• String
• Safety goggles
• Glass gloves
• Allen key
• Anchors and screws

Ensure all materials are rated for outdoor use and compatible with the kind of surface you’re working on.

How is Glass Pool Fencing Installed

Step 1: Plan the Layout

Begin by planning the layout of your fence. First, use a level to make sure the area is completely flat so your spigots aren’t taller than the other and you accidentally install your glass at an incline. Then, use string to outline where the fence will go. This will give you a visual guide and help ensure you have straight lines for each of the spigots. Use a tape measure to ensure you have an appropriately sized gap between each spigot so the glass isn’t too close or too far apart. 

Step 2: Install the Spigots or Posts

Spigots are the foundation of your glass pool fence. They support the glass panels, so proper installation is crucial. Use a tape measure to mark where each spigot or post will be placed. Ensure even spacing for a balanced look. Then, with an appropriate drill and drill bit, drill holes into the marked spots where your spigots will go. Use a can of compressed air to clear the dust and debris from the hole to install the anchors and screws. Next, place your spigots over the holes, and screw them in with anchors and screws.

Step 3: Install the Glass Panels

Once the spigots or posts are securely in place, it’s time to install the glass panels.

Carefully lift a glass panel and position it between two spigots or posts. Get a friend to help you, and use glass gloves to carefully handle the glass. Once the glass is secured to the spigots, you can tighten the clamps in the spigots with an Allen key or whatever the instructions for those spigots say. 

When you place the glass in, you might notice they are slightly different heights—don’t panic. By adjusting the grip on the spigots, you can lift and lower each of the glass panels as needed and get a clean line over the top of the panels.

Step 4: Clean and Inspect

Finally, clean the glass panels with a suitable glass cleaner to remove any fingerprints or smudges. We recommend inspecting the entire fence to ensure it meets safety standards and looks visually appealing.

How to Maintain Your Glass Pool Fence

Glass pool fencing requires minimal maintenance, but regular upkeep will keep it looking its best. It’s important to regularly clean your glass fence. Hosing down the glass after using the pool is usually enough, but deep cleans for more dramatic grime is sometimes necessary. Regularly checking the glass to make sure it’s securely installed and not in danger of coming loose is also essential.

Further Glass Pool Fence Ideas

Thinking of adding a unique flair to your glass pool fence? There’s always a variety of pool fence ideas to really make your backyard pop. Having plants around your fence is a fantastic way of making your fence appear more natural. (Just make sure these are on the inside of the fence, as they could be a climbable object for children to get into the pool). If you have a semi-frameless glass pool fence, you can also consider installing subtle LED lights along the posts to make your pool look more alluring at night. 

Get in touch with Precision Glass Fencing

If you’re looking to install a brand new glass pool fence in your home, this guide will give you a start on what to expect in the process. If you still have any questions, or are looking for a group of professionals who can help with the glass installation, we recommend Precision Glass Fencing. We have been installing glass fencing and balustrade in Melbourne for years, delivering expert and professional service all the while.

Our glass panes come in a range of preselected sizes and styles, but we can also make completely custom designs for our clients. This is because we manufacture and design our own glass fences, and thus can create whatever design a client has in mind. From frameless to semi-frameless, you can’t go wrong with choosing Precision Glass.

If you’re interested, get in touch with us today so you can get a first-hand experience of our personalised service and professional demeanor. Let us transform your pool into the epitome of both style and safety.